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do versus done

For by one sacrifice He has made perfect forever those who are being made holy.
— Hebrews 10:14

Before I became a Christian, I believed whole-heartedly that there were many ways to God—different paths, each as valid as the next. In fact, I was so vehement that I designed a logo representing it and had it tattooed onto my body. Now, that’s commitment.

But, thankfully, the Lord was leading me to the Truth. And, after three decades of going to church (because my “path” was Catholicism), I heard the Gospel for the first time. I truly understood that through Jesus, my sins were paid, and I was made righteous in the eyes of a God that requires perfection.

Even after I heard the Truth, I questioned God…surely, He wouldn’t condemn all those Baha’i, Buddhists, and Muslims who are just as passionate about their path to Heaven. How could Christianity be so narrow-minded? Couldn’t there still be many ways to God?

So, on the front steps of my newfound church, I asked that question of the pastor. And he explained a simple, profound truth: Within all the world religions, people must work to earn heaven—they must pursue “good enough” by their own efforts and deeds. Not so with Christianity. By what He accomplished on the cross, Jesus Christ paid in full the cost of eternal life with God. There’s nothing we can do to earn it or be good enough. We are sinners, and the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus. (Romans 6:23).

Jesus paid our debt, stamping it, “Paid in Full”—we owe nothing…and everything. In fact, when Jesus cried from the cross, “It is finished,” the original word equates with a debt being satisfied.

Others do and do and do, never to be perfected. Christians, however, have been made perfect and holy because He paid it all for us. It’s done. We don’t have to work for our salvation—and fail repeatedly. Instead, in response to what Christ did, we do good—not to earn but in grateful response.

So, I added the word Teleo to my “tattoo testimony.” It translates from Greek into, “I am complete.”

what are You doing?

Blessed is the man who trusts in the Lord, whose trust is the Lord. He is like a tree planted by water, that sends out its roots by the stream, and does not fear when heat comes, for its leaves remain green, and is not anxious in the year of drought, for it does not cease to bear fruit.

~Jeremiah 17:7-8

Get ready for an “interactive devo” with this one. First, pause reading to simply speak aloud the title, “What are you doing?” Now, say it with an emphasis on “doing”…and now, say it again, but add a bit of your best frustrated tone, like when you catch your child (or spouse) in the midst of some questionable act. Can’t we hear ourselves speaking this very thing to the Lord when our circumstances are painful, frightening, and ostensibly unwarranted in relation to our faithfulness to Him? We protest, “Why are they prospering, when they hate You, God?” Or “Why can’t we get pregnant, when our desire is to raise up godly children…yet hundreds of women kill their unwanted babies every day?” We pray and declare our trust in Him, but then we snatch back control because He’s not doing what we deem to be the best course of action.

In this singular statement, we question not only our negative conditions, but also His motives—sometimes, doubting His love for us or even His very existence.

OK, say it again—out loud—but this time put the emphasis on “You” (that is, on God). Once more. Now note the natural tonal shift from frustration to genuine inquiry. The entire meaning of the phrase changes, doesn’t it? It moves from questioning the activity, circumstances, even the grief and pain to seeking God’s purpose in it all. By turning our attention to Him, the spotlight we had on our surroundings dims in His Light. We can abandon the struggle to blame, control, and understand from our limited perspective…and surrender it all to the One whose thoughts are not our thoughts and ways are higher than ours (Isaiah 55:8-9).

Same question, different outcome.

In fact, centering on the “You”—as with our very breath—our intention evolves. We no longer chase the “why” or even the “how long” like a person on the edge of madness. As with many of the Psalms David penned, we can certainly start with, “What are you DOING, Lord!?” It’s only natural to think this way (the questioning and doubting, complaining and arguing). But, like David, we can conclude with the YOU. See, as believers we have the mind of Christ, so that we don’t have to think like the world (1 Corinthians 2:12-16). We can resolve (like David) to trust in the Lord and praise His Providence (Psalm 13; 31;42-43). His way is perfect (Psalm 18:30). Whatever He is doing, it is for His flawless purpose—and it will stand (Proverbs 19:21). And, although we may not see it clearly until we are with Jesus, face to face, the doing is in His Sovereignty, and it is for our good (Romans 8:28). And, beloved, the pain, the waiting, the loss, the incomprehensible circumstance…it is always for His glory (Isaiah 42:8; Revelation 4:11).

Lord, may my complaining and questioning of You be transformed into trust and praise. Because You are Trustworthy, Sovereign, and so, so Good.

being reflective

The heavens are telling of the glory of God; And the expanse is declaring the work of His hands. Day to day pours forth speech, And night to night reveals knowledge.

~Psalm 19:1-2

But we all, with unveiled face, beholding as in a mirror the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into the same image from glory to glory, just as from the Lord, the Spirit.

~2 Corinthians 3:18

As I was sitting on my back patio as the sun began rising above the horizon, the underbelly of the clouds began to glow pink. Brighter and brighter, the sky exploded in color. In praising God for another day, my thoughts meandered to the miraculous daily variations of each sunrise and sunset. As our earth turns, the sun “rises” and “sets” (not really, but you know…), shifting slightly north to south with the seasons. But it’s the same ball of fire—up and down, up and down, day after day. So, I thought, why is the canvas of morning and evening skies painted so uniquely each day?

Well, it completely depends on how the sun is being reflected. The cloud formations might generate streaks of heavenly beams, refracting the light to unveil awe-inspiring spectrum. The air quality and density, the humidity, and the temperature all impact how colorful or purely white the sky will be. But it’s all due to the sun—all that magnificence is a reflective response to the greater light (Genesis 1:14-19).

Then there’s the moon. Its phases help distinguish the times and seasons—and it also illuminates dark nights. But it only serves humanity in this way because it is reflecting the sun. It has no source of light on its own—it shines on us in reflection of its source.

And what about the flowers? Think of beautiful blossoms and their intricate array of colors and forms (Luke 12:27). They all bring glory to God—and joy to us. How? Because they soak in the light and heat of the sun (photosynthesis)! Their splendor is a reflection of the sun. Oh yeah, we also savor the food we eat (at least “real” food) because the rhythms of the sun draw out this bounty from the ground or trees. It wouldn’t be so without the sun.

Each of these glories and gifts are distinct and splendid reflections of the sun.

Oh beloved, do you see it—is your spirit soaring at the thought? The same is true of the Son. As believers, we are each made to reflect our Source. With a unique color palette, distinct expressions, and perfectly knit-together characteristics, we are meant to reflect Jesus. Like the starry host flung across the sky or a field of wildflowers, our diverse beauty is designed to declare the glory of God. Ah, but there is a difference. Creation reflects the sun—a source of light. We are made in God’s image—with His very breath in our lungs—to reflect the Son. The Light of the world (John 8:12). And we, “beholding as in a mirror the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into the same image from glory to glory, just as from the Lord, the Spirit” (2 Corinthians 3:18). See, the more we follow after Him, becoming more and more like Him, that mirror—our glorious reflection of Him—gets less foggy, until the day we see Him clearly face to face (1 Corinthians 13:12) when we move into Glory ourselves. For His glory, and as we move to our final glorification.

So, let’s consider our thoughts, words, actions today. Are they reflecting selfishness, pride, anger, ego? Or are our eyes so fixed on the Lord so that, like Moses, our faces shine at the reflection? Let us gaze, sweet friend, at His lovely face. And like the sky, moon, and flowers, let’s become a beautiful reflection of the glorious Son.

Oh, Lord, You are glorious! May I keep my eyes only on You as I walk through this world toward Home, so that I can both reflect Your beauty to others…and be constantly transformed into Your likeness.

wake up

Besides this you know the time, that the hour has come for you to wake from sleep. For salvation is nearer to us now than when we first believed. The night is far gone; the day is at hand. So then let us cast off the works of darkness and put on the armor of light.

~Romans 13:11-12

Can you feel it? Now, it may be a product of my recent birthday (and a certain “these kids today” attitude that comes with multiple decades under one’s belt), but I sense that time is getting short. Just glance at the news, social media feeds, or YouTube reels—the evidence is clear: the dark is getting darker as Satan’s efforts get seemingly more desperate. The culture of death we live in is almost hard to believe (unless you believe the Bible). More than half our society marches for the right to kill babies until birth—and many affirm (dare I say, celebrate) a mom’s murder of her own children. People don’t like what a public figure has to say (or what he represents), and when that person (whether walking down the street or sitting at a table) is gunned down, there is actual glee and revelry for the action. And in no period during my lifetime, no matter who was President of these United States, have I seen such astounding vitriol, madness, and literal death-wishing from the other side of the aisle. Need I mention the meteoric rise of a false religion that flies in the face of our Constitution, a growing political party that has historically always and only destroyed people and nations, and anti-Christ pastors-turned-politicians who speak heresies with a crooked smile, twisting God’s Word like the Garden serpent?

But, sweet friend, it’s not just in these big, public ways that Satan is having a field day. Look at your own circle—and your fellow believers’ circles. His aim is to kill, steal, and destroy (John 10:10a), to prowl around looking for someone to devour (1 Peter 5:8). On one side of the coin, there’s a valiant effort to keep people from surrendering to Jesus. On the other, his objective is to keep believers from growing in relationship with the Lord and being effective disciples who make disciples. But he is a liar—the father of lies and murderer (John 8:44). And he disguises himself as an angel of light, misleading and twisting truth…hissing with subterfuge, “Did God really say…? It’s nothing new, his schemes. But there’s definitely a ramping up.

There’s great news in all this though! Amid and despite the darkness, the Light is piercing through. As the timeless spiritual war wages, battles are being won—and we must keep our eyes on these victories, using them to spur us on! Look at the immense growth of Bible-teaching churches around the country—my own church being one of them. Each week the dead are coming to life through salvation and choosing to walk in obedience to Christ. Huge, record-breaking baptisms are happening around the country, as people repent and make public proclamations of their faith in Jesus. Prisoners are being set free—both in the figurative and literal sense, as the Gospel is being poured out in prisons through apps and onsite Bible studies. We must also open our eyes to the wins (and opportunities for wins) around us. Watching for how the Lord is moving in our family, among our friends, at our workplace and joining Him!

Fellow believer, each of us must wake up and get in the fight! Time is of the essence! Pray without ceasing, stay in the Word, share the Gospel. Be a light to dispel the darkness around you, expose the darkness, walk wisely (Ephesians 5:1-21). Put on the armor of God (Ephesians 6:10-20). Stir up one another to love and good works—and do not stop meeting together (Hebrews 10:23-25). Press on—with joy—to your calling and toward your ultimate home (Philippians 3:12-14; 20-21). Satan may be the god of this world, but Jesus has overcome the world (John 16:33)—and Satan (Colossians 2:15). And as the urgency rises (and Jesus’ return becomes daily more imminent), we can hold onto a Great and Certain Truth as we stand firm and wield our sword: We’re fighting a battle that’s already been won (1 John 4:4; 1 Corinthians 15:57).

Lord, Your return is closer today than it was yesterday—and the enemy knows this well. Empower and equip me to stand firm and get in the fight. To help strengthen and encourage my brothers and sisters in Christ…and share with the lost the hope and light found only in Jesus.

grace goggles

Why do you see the speck that is in your brother’s eye, but do not notice the log that is in your own eye? How can you say to your brother, ‘Brother, let me take out the speck that is in your eye,’ when you yourself do not see the log that is in your own eye? You hypocrite, first take the log out of your own eye, and then you will see clearly to take out the speck that is in your brother’s eye.”

~Luke 6:41-42

I was having coffee with one of my besties the other morning, and in the midst of some get-real, mat-carrier-level conversation, she dropped an eloquent statement I can’t get out of my head. In discussing our respective sanctification journeys, we recounted our similar strivings (and successes, praise God) over the years to be less pharisaical toward our brothers and sisters in Christ—that is, to put down the holiness-checklist clipboard as we worship, serve, live. She simply stated, “I used to keep rose-colored glasses on myself but have a magnifying glass on others.” (Not that either of us has “arrived”—as we won’t until glory.)

Can I get an “Amen”? I just loved her modern, relatable take on Jesus’ words about specs and logs (Luke 6:41-42; Matthew 7:1-5). And it got me thinking more about my own arc of sanctification as a 30-year follower of Christ: the initial “incomprehensible comprehension” that I didn’t have to work my way to heaven (I am paid in full), the continual unveiling of truth (and conviction) through God’s Word, and the steps of obedience (and some consequential disobedience) leading to ongoing refinement. Not a smooth ride, by any means, but generally up and to the right. Can you relate?

Because I was raised to be a perfectionist (therefore growing into a bit of a control freak), making sure I was doing everything “right” was a given…but so was making sure everyone else was too (and getting personally offended when those expectations were not met). Sadly, this quality bled into my Christian walk after a while. Like the Pharisees, it was easy to grab my proverbial magnifying glass to assess the sanctification walk of others. While I claimed God’s grace and forgiveness in my own fumbles and stumbles and learnings along the way, eventually it could be a thing for me to watch a fellow believer—who the Lord is refining in a unique way—and think, “I can’t believe they’re doing that as a Christian!” (You can probably hear the associated snort of disapproval.) Rose-colored glasses for me and not for thee.

Praise the Lord for His great mercy and peeling away of the flesh to continually reveal more of Himself, am I right? Don’t you love the way He smiles like the parent of a toddler being a toddler, gently (and sometimes not so gently) correcting and encouraging us? There’s conviction, repentance, and then continuing that up-and-to-the-right trek with perseverance in the Word and in relationship with Him. May we all be like the Apostle Paul, becoming more aware and repentant of our own besetting sins the longer we walk with Jesus.

But another way of dropping the magnifying glass (or rock, as the pharisaical case might be), is to immerse yourself in the life of new believers. If you’ve been a Christian for a minute, you know what I’m talking about. The newborn alive-in-Christ are filled with the awe of reconciliation with God through Jesus’ life, death, and resurrection. There’s that freshly felt freedom as the shackles of darkness dropped off. The palpable buoyancy of salvation joy. The recognition that their rebellion could not outpace God’s redemption. When they’re made a new creation, they’re given rose-colored (Blood-tinged) glasses of grace—seeing themselves, the world, and those in it from the Father’s perspective. It’s all so beautiful—and inspiring.

Oh, beloved, no matter how long you and I have been following Jesus, we must preach the Gospel to ourselves daily as a reminder of these truths. Like David, we must appeal to the Lord, “Restore to me the joy (and grace) of Your salvation!” Psalm 51:11-13. Let’s replace the clipboard-carrying for a sweet embrace—encouraging and edifying believers, praying for the lost to be found. Let’s drop the rock and recognize ourselves in the lives of other sinners. Let’s take the log out of our own eyeball before considering the speck in our neighbor’s. And let’s exchange the magnifying glass of judgment for goggles of grace.

Lord, thank You for the journey of sanctification—for continually making me more like Jesus as I walk in the direction of obedience to Your Word and will. Continue to refine me by extending the same grace, mercy, forgiveness, and love to others that You have given me.

wise and innocent

I appeal to you, brothers, to watch out for those who cause divisions and create obstacles contrary to the doctrine that you have been taught; avoid them. For such persons do not serve our Lord Christ, but their own appetites, and by smooth talk and flattery they deceive the hearts of the naive. For your obedience is known to all, so that I rejoice over you, but I want you to be wise as to what is good and innocent as to what is evil. The God of peace will soon crush Satan under your feet.

~Romans 16:17-20

Although it began with a hissed “did God really say” to the first man and woman in the Garden, deception is still alive and well today. In fact, from “fake news” and bot-driven algorithms to a firehose of social media “experts” and all-too-real-looking AI fabrications, I believe we are being bombarded by Satan’s lies today more than ever. The world system has been meticulously built by our enemy through the millennia for a singular purpose: to kill, steal, and destroy us (John 10:10a; 1 Peter 5:8) Here are just a few of the prevailing hisses:

“The plot and character development in that show is really great, so those sex scenes are OK.”
“God wants you to be healthy and wealthy, without problems or suffering. If you’re not, you don’t have enough faith.”
“You don’t have time to read your Bible.” (Although your phone has clearly logged the 9 hours of screen time.)
“The news is so maddening! But you can’t be ignorant to what’s happening, so you have to watch—and hear what your favorite commentators have to say about it all.”
“The Bible needs to be applied to modern culture—the teachings from back then on love, sex, abortion, judgment, etc. are outdated.”

Throughout the New Testament, followers of Jesus are warned about the wolves and false prophets coming into (and out of) the Church to deceive believers (Matthew 7:15-19; Acts 20:29-30; 2 Peter 2:1-3; 2 Corinthians 11:13-15)—to pull us away from God by dangling enticements and subtle lures that play into the lust of the eyes, lust of the flesh, and the pride of life (1 John 2:16). They are smooth talkers. They get the podcast airplay and reel replays. And like a magician, they deviously weave together “data” to prove their point, turning our attention where they want it, so we don’t see what’s really going on.

Oh, beloved, as the Apostle Paul exhorts, we must be “wise to what is good and innocent as to what is evil” if we’re to persevere (Romans 16:19). What does this mean practically? From the Greek, being “wise to what is good” is to be skilled, expert at all that is right, honorable, and acceptable to the Lord. How do we know what that is? It’s all in God’s Word for us! Just as we’d put in the time and effort to study for a final exam or train for a marathon, we must put in the time and effort to know Biblical truth. We must read it for ourselves—not just read or listen to what others say. Upon our salvation, believers have the Holy Spirit living in us to help us understand what we read in the Bible. The Bible is our wisdom, and it’s all about Jesus. He is the Way, Truth, and Life—and in Him is true Goodness.

But we also need to be “innocent as to what is evil”…in other words, blameless, pure, free from guile regarding everything that is worthless, harmful, depraved (which sounds like most of our worldly junk right now). How? Turn away, turn off—even run away at full speed—from the things of the world that weigh us down or trap us. These are different for each of us. It might be alcohol, drugs, or pornography…or it could be too much focus on social media, money, or looking young. Friend, if it does not align with God’s Word, it is a deception meant for destruction. If it is not glorifying to our Sovereign God, it is worthless.

I know that sounds a bit radical. Maybe it’s because I’ve been around now for six decades, but I believe (like Paul said in Romans 16:2) that the God of all peace is coming back soon to crush Satan. Time is short (whether my time, or all of time), and I want to be found ready. Won’t you join me in pursuing both wisdom for good and innocent of evil? Let’s keep our eyes, mind, and actions focused on excellent and praiseworthy things (Philippians 4:8-9). And as both citizens and ambassadors of God’s Kingdom (Philippians 3:20-21; 2 Corinthians 5:18-20), let’s stay focused on our heavenly home…and invite as many people as possible to join us.

Lord, I want to be all in. Turn my eyes from looking at worthless things; and give me life in your ways (Psalm 119:37).

“Give it to Me.”

As a result of the anguish of His soul, He will see it and be satisfied; By His knowledge the Righteous One, My Servant, will justify the many, As He will bear their iniquities.

~Isaiah 53:11

My son and his wife just had a baby, and I’m still trying to process the whole, “my baby has a baby” thing. We were recently blessed to stay with them for a week, helping to relieve their collective sleep deprivation. At just 6 weeks old, baby girl is battling beastly gas pains—the cries of anguish are very distinctive. And heartbreaking. Like every parent before him throughout humanity, I overheard my son look into her sweet (yet writhing) face and utter those earnest, often desperate words: “Lord, take her pain and give it to me.”

If you have a child, this same scenario is likely seared in your mind and soul. In our child’s sickness, suffering, and for some of us, impending death, we would have taken whatever it was on ourselves to spare the child. From our deep, inexpressible love pours out this selfless response like water from a broken vessel: “I’ll suffer in her place! Please, God, take her pain, sickness, darkness…I’ll shoulder it myself, so she can be healed and free. Let me make that trade.”

Oh, beloved, can’t you see it? The very Gospel screams out from this parental plea! Separated from God, we are sick, suffering—dead—in our sins. Oftentimes, there is physical, mental, and emotional pain in this world. But it is 100% certain that eternal darkness and suffering await after human death. But God. The Plan was set from the foundation of time (someday we’ll understand this): In the mystery that is Trinitarian communication, Jesus would say of us sinners, “Father, in Our inexpressible love, I will suffer in their place. I will take their pain, sickness, darkness…I will shoulder it Myself, so they can be healed and free. I will make that trade.”

And He did. Jesus came to earth, fully God and fully Man. He lived the perfect life we could never live and died the brutal death we deserved—taking on the very wrath of God meant for us. Jesus traded our sin (and darkness and pain and suffering) for His righteousness, making the way for new life in Him. In Christ we are healed and free (Isaiah 53:5; Colossians 2:14; Galatians 3:13; Romans 5:8-10).

Jesus did this for you, sweet friend. Jesus sees you, and He knows your pain. He’s calling you to “Come.” He’s beseeching you: “Come to Me, and I will take your burdens and give you rest (Matthew 11:28-30).” And it doesn’t cost you anything but surrender (Revelation 22:17). If you haven’t yet allowed Jesus to take your pain, suffering, burdens, do it now. Just confess that you’re a sinner (not perfect), and He will forgive you and cleanse you from all unrighteousness (1 John 1:9).

As human parents, we’ve all cried out for this exchange—like my own son looking into his daughter’s eyes—but we’re unable to fulfill it. Jesus did. Won’t you accept this Great Exchange?

Lord, thank You for trading my sin, pain, and shame for Your perfect righteousness, making the way for eternal glory and joy. If there is just one person reading this who has not accepted this gift of healing and freedom, give them the faith to answer Your call to “Come.”

church

“I was glad when they said to me, “Let us go to the house of the Lord!”

~Psalm 122:1

I often think about the beautiful variety of people in the family of God—those surrendered to Jesus Christ and made children of God (John 1:12-13). Over the past 2000 years and into today, incalculable people groups and types are included—and, as the Apostle Paul said in the first century, we are all one in Jesus Christ (Galatians 3:26-28). At my church (which is huge), I get to see this glorious spectrum every week And, honestly, since attending this community, my eyes have been even more open to the stunning breadth of my spiritual family…I could fill pages with stories of miraculous ways the Lord has brought unexpecting people through the doors.

But, as noted, our church is in that “mega” category. We have 16 campuses (including 4 within prison walls), and two more about to open, with tens of thousands of people attending in person each weekend at all the campuses. And we’re growing rapidly to impact more cities and states. My husband and I have to remind ourselves not to ever take for granted the hundreds of salvations that happen with an invitation on a single Sunday, as well as the thousands of baptisms per year. God is on the move here.

As exciting as it is to be part of what He is doing through our church and the myriad people, I was reminded recently about the variety of God’s family gatherings—church—and the sweetness of the small. My husband and I traveled to Tampa for his work, and we ended the time at a small downtown church service with new friends. Maybe 60 people at most. (A mere few months ago there were about 5 people, with rotating pastors, so God is on the move here too!) The praise and worship was fire—and so was the sermon.

But then, we got to experience something I almost forgot was a thing. After service, we gathered in the small fellowship hall for a potluck meal. The entire congregation, from an eight-day-old to 80 years. One magician entertained, then another—the second reminding the children (and all of us) who we are in Christ through magic and song. Favorite recipes were shared, including sweet homemade-with-love cake. Oh, but what overwhelmed me most was the sweet spirit of the gathering. Profound joy of the Lord. And a deep bond among once-strangers-now-family, only found through Jesus. In fact, I may not again meet in this life the octogenarian couple we sat across the table from. But I assure you, when I see them in glory, we’ll reminisce about that amazing hummingbird cake at the Concord Baptist Church fellowship.

Praise God for His Church. And churches. Whether it’s my congregation of thousands, an underground church in Iran, a house church in South Korea…or a small—but growing—congregation in downtown Tampa. Whatever church looks like, it’s a beautiful thing.

Lord, may we—Your Church—not give up meeting together (Hebrews 10:25), but be enamored by Your wide spectrum of people. Our brothers and sisters.

prepositional awe

For from Him and through Him and to Him are all things. To Him be the glory forever. Amen.

~Romans 11:36

As a writer, I’m a grammar nerd—always have been. Because my mom immigrated to the US from Italy as a teenager speaking no English at all, she worked very hard to quickly master the language of her new home country and became an exacting stickler for proper English. From the time my brothers and I started talking, my mom ensured that our speech followed all the grammar, syntax, and diction rules.

So, while diving into the last part of Romans, chapter 11, the richness of several prepositional phrases jumped off the page to paint an inspiring picture of God and His glory. [As a quick reminder: A preposition is paired with an object of a preposition to form a prepositional phrase. Prepositional phrases are phrases that can be used to modify nouns, verbs, adjectives, and adverbs. Examples are at, by, for, from, in, of, on, to, with, above, over, through—to name a few.]

Now, Paul’s letter to the Romans delivers crazy depth and breadth of the gospel—the problem of sin, God’s judgment, God’s free justification, and the transformed life of believers. Chapter 11 wraps up a three-chapter discussion primarily about Israel: their rejection and God’s plan for their ultimate redemption per His promise. It’s Paul’s closure of this chapter that reminds us all—Jew, Christian, and unbeliever alike—who He is. Let’s nerd out together, shall we?

“For from Him and through Him and to Him are all things” (emphasis mine).

In looking at all parts of this phrase, I turned to the original Greek language (per Strong’s Concordance) to be sure that our current English understanding doesn’t cloud Paul’s intention. And since all the prepositional phrases modify something, it’s vital to address this first. Here, it’s “all things”. Every time an exposition of Scripture has “all”, I hear in my head the words of a former pastor of mine: “In the Greek, all means all, and that’s all all means.” I looked it up, and yes, that’s accurate! “All” is “in an absolute sense, all things collectively, the totality of created things.” So, let’s wrap our heads around that for a minute. We’re talking about everything that exists! Now, onto those weighty prepositions…

from (out of, by means of): a primary preposition denoting origin (the point whence action or motion proceeds), from, out (of place, time, or cause; literal or figurative; direct or remote). In other words, everything is from—by means of—God. He is the Source of it all. And everyone, even though they might not admit it outright—knows this and will be held accountable to this truth (see Romans 1).
through (because of, for the sake of, on account of): a preposition pointing to one who is the author of the action, as well as its instrument, or of the efficient cause. So, God not only is the Source, but He is also the Creator/Doer (Genesis 1; John 1:3; Colossians 1:16).
to/unto (so, toward, for): answering to the final cause; indicating the point reached or entered (of place, time); to or into a purpose (result, etc.). This prepositional phrase is the “why” portion of this verse. Why did God source and then make all things? For Himself and His own pleasure (Psalm 135:6; Colossians 1:16; Revelation 4:11).

Once the prepositional modifiers describe the existence of all things, the rest of verse 36 answers the “so what/now what” question for us: “To Him be the glory forever.” We can actually get a running start on this glorious praise in verses 33-35, where Paul bursts out in mind-blowing exaltation (my summary): “God’s ways and whys are unfathomable! We can’t even start to wrap our heads around His thoughts, wisdom and knowledge!” Putting all of 11:36 together, especially if taken in context of Paul’s entire letter to the Romans, it’s enough bigness to keep us occupied for days (years!):

God is the Author, Architect, Source, Cause, Creator, Purpose. Of Everything. And the awe we experience upon seeing a sunrise, basking in the starry sky, looking into a child’s eyes, laughing with friends, tasting something delicious, inhaling a flower’s aroma or sweet pine…it all points to One Person—and to the glory of the One from whom, through whom, and to whom it all exists. Oh, beloved, may we never cease to be amazed by Him. Amen? Yes, amen!

Oh Lord, how majestic is Your Name in all the earth—and beyond! May I see everything around me with the eyes of awe.

gaining courage

Now I want you to know, brethren, that my circumstances have turned out for the greater progress of the gospel, so that my imprisonment in the cause of Christ has become well known throughout the whole praetorian guard and to everyone else, and that most of the brethren, trusting in the Lord because of my imprisonment, have far more courage to speak the word of God without fear.

~Philippians 1:12-14

Last month, Canada passed the Combatting Hate Act (Bill C-9), a new “hate crime” law. This Bill broadens the definition of hate speech and removes the longstanding legal defense for good-faith religious expression. So now, a pastor may be arrested for preaching certain parts of the Bible. (Although the language of the Bill says religious text is protected, there are loopholes in the designation of “hatred”, as it’s defined as “clearly associated with vilification and detestation”—so emotionally adamant individuals can make the legal accusation based on their personal perception). Now, the law is purportedly for all religions and cultural “hate”…but make no mistake, it is an anti-Christian resolution. And, although the law may ultimately protect a pastor, the costly legal process becomes the punishment.

(Interesting proof point: I was recently talking with my husband’s Canadian coworker and his wife who, in their recounting the “COVID years” in their county, how Christian churches were locked down with resolved enforcement, the smallest gathering of the saints prohibited—with ramifications. Drive by the many mosques during that time, though, and you’d see packed parking lots and no police in sight.)

This, my friend, is Canada—not North Korea. And, if you’re paying attention, you’ll know that it’s seeping into our nation as well.

While diving in once more to the Apostle Paul’s letter to the Philippians, it’s amazing to read about the joy he had in Christ and for the Gospel while chained up in a cold underground prison in Rome. But what struck me afresh are verses 12-14 of chapter 1: Because of Paul’s imprisonment for the Gospel, the brethren had far more courage to speak the Word of God without fear. My first reaction is, “What!?” If my pastor was hauled away from his pulpit and thrown in jail for preaching the truth of the Bible, I’m thinking my response would be to flee and fearfully hide out in my house. Not so with Paul’s brothers and sisters in Christ during that time. Nope, seeing Paul’s imprisonment (and likely knowing about the arrests, tortures, and deaths of contemporary followers of Christ—perhaps even their own family and friends), their trust in the Lord grew! And they became bolder to share the Gospel!

In light of what’s happening in Canada, as well as the fact that 4,849 Christians have been killed for their faith and 388 million suffered severe persecution last year (Open Doors 2026 reporting), may the Bible be both a mirror and a map for us in this regard.

The Apostle Paul (and Peter and John and all the Apostles) had good reason to be fearful and stay quiet, given the persecution of Jesus followers. But through their steadfast faith in Christ, they never backed down—and their words exhort us today.

God gave us a spirit not of fear, but of power and love and self-control, and we are not to be ashamed because we know whom we have believed (2 Timothy 1:6-14).
Even when imprisoned and threatened by the government, Peter and John said, “Whether it is right in the sight of God to give heed to you rather than God, you be the judge; for we cannot stop speaking about what we have seen and heard” (Acts 4:18-22)
“Be strong and courageous! Do not tremble or be dismayed, for the LORD your God is with you wherever you go” (Joshua 1:9)
Shadrach, Meshach and Abed-nego refused to bow down to anyone but the Lord (Daniel 3).
Daniel prayed to God in the open even when it was outlawed (Daniel 6:10-28).

At the very end of Paul’s life, he continued to admonish believers to preach the Word—in and out of season. For 250 years, the Gospel has been “in season” in our nation but is falling out. So as Paul writes to Timothy, we’re to listen in and follow suit (2 Timothy 4:1-5):

For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but wanting to have their ears tickled, they will accumulate for themselves teachers in accordance to their own desires, and will turn away their ears from the truth and will turn aside to myths. But you, be sober in all things, endure hardship, do the work of an evangelist, fulfill your ministry.

The time is coming to embrace courage not despite persecution, but because of it. Are you ready? Am I?

Lord, make me bold to preach the Gospel without fear. No matter the season, no matter the potential danger.

lost opportunities

Live wisely among those who are not believers, and make the most of every opportunity.

~Colossians 4:5 (NLT)

Confession time. I am way too often a very poor ambassador of Christ (2 Corinthians 5:20). Around my friends and church family? No problemo. Even in welcoming new people to church on Sundays, my attitude is love, grace, mercy—my desire is to reflect the Lord and glorify God in my thoughts, words, and actions. The sad truth is that my loss of these godly characteristics usually occurs amid more, um, public settings. It’s bad enough that my cruddy mood or sharp words may strike a fellow Christian who doesn’t know me…in fact, they likely may be thinking, “Good grief, that woman needs Jesus.” Oh, but what does that look like to unbelievers? They probably have some choice descriptors of me in their mind. Although the word isn’t used often these days, an accurate term would be “fool”.

In the aftermath of my foolish words or actions, as conviction kicks in hard, I often shudder at the thought of following up my behavior with, “So, are you a believer? Want to join me at church on Sunday?” Cringeworthy, am I right?

The Bible has a lot to say about fools and foolishness:

A fool gives full vent to his spirit, but a wise man quietly holds it back (Proverbs 29:11).
A fool takes no pleasure in understanding, but only in expressing his opinion (Proverb 18:2).
The fool says in his heart, “There is no God.” They are corrupt, they do abominable deeds; there is none who does good (Psalm 14:1).
For from within, out of the heart of man, come evil thoughts… deceit, sensuality, envy, slander, pride, foolishness. (Mark 7:21-22).

The opposite of foolishness is wisdom—walking according to God’s Word. In addition to the Psalms and other Old Testament books that are chock full of wisdom advice, practically every book of the New Testament gives followers of Christ an “ambassador handbook”. A clear blueprint of the words to use, the behaviors to put on (and what to throw off), and the attitudes to embrace. (See all of Paul’s letters, as well as the books of James, John, and Peter.) In fact, because we are filled with the Holy Spirit upon salvation, when we truly yield to Him, His God-glorifying fruit will blossom (Galatians 5:22-23). Paul’s letter to the Colossians, for instance, is a great study on who we are in Christ and how to walk. It’s in chapter 4, verses 2-6, however, that the Lord reminds us of how our conduct around unbelievers—if wise—provides us with gospel opportunities. And if that coin is flipped, how acting the fool leads to lost opportunity. Or worse, giving God—my King who I represent—a bad name.

Oh, sweet friend, aren’t you thankful for the unending mercy, grace, and forgiveness of the Lord? I sure am. And as much as I know it breaks His heart when we don’t act wise (or my speech is not “seasoned with grace”), He always gives us the chance to honor His Name…to “make the most of every opportunity”. In that same section of Colossians, Paul even exhorts us how: (1) We devote ourselves to prayer; (2) stay alert—keep our eyes open to what God is doing around us; (3) maintain an attitude of thanksgiving; (4) walk wisely; and (5) season our words with the grace we’ve been given. That “opportunity” presented to us may just mean being a conduit through which God brings salvation. I don’t know about you, but I want to be that kind of tool for the Lord…not a fool.

Lord, keep my eyes open to what You are doing around me. Give me the wisdom and words to make the most of every opportunity for Your glory.