Matthew 22:34-40 - The Greatest Commandments

When the Pharisees gathered around Jesus in Matthew 22:34–40, one of them—a lawyer—asked, “Teacher, which is the great commandment in the Law?” His question was an innocent question. He and they others were testing Jesus, hoping to trap Him with His own words. But Jesus’ answer didn’t just silence their debate—it cut straight to the heart of what it means to follow God.

Jesus simply replied, “Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind. This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like it: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’ All the Law and the Prophets hang on these two commandments.”

In just a few short sentences, Jesus had summarized the entire Old Testament. Everything God had ever commanded— every rule, every principle, every prophet’s message—was rooted in these two simple truths:  love God completely, and love others sincerely.

Jesus placed the love of God first for a reason. Before we can love anyone else rightly, we must love God fully. Loving God “with all your heart, soul, and mind” means giving Him first place in every part of life—our emotions, our choices, our thoughts. It’s not a partial or convenient love. It’s wholehearted devotion.

When we love God this way, obedience stops being a chore and becomes a joy. As Jesus said, “If you love Me, you will keep My commandments” (John 14:15). Genuine love for God changes how we worship, how we spend our time, and how we treat other people.

Then Jesus added, “You shall love your neighbor as yourself.” Real love for God overflows into love for others. John wrote, “He who does not love his brother whom he has seen, cannot love God whom he has not seen” (1 John 4:20).

This love isn’t about convenience or preference—it’s about compassion, humility, and service. It’s the kind of love that forgives, helps, and gives even when it’s hard–especially when it’s hard! Jesus modeled that perfectly for us, laying down His life not just for His friends, but for sinners (Romans 5:8).

If we can understand these two commandments, everything else will fall into place. These commands guide our relationships, our worship, our priorities, and our purpose. The Christian life isn’t just a checklist—in a sense, it’s a love story:  God loved us first, and our lives are meant to reflect that love back to Him and to others around us.

In a world filled with complexity and distraction, Jesus brings us back to the center:  Love God. Love people. If we can do those two things faithfully, we will fulfill everything God ever asked of His people.

Acts 9:1-4 - What Paul Saw on the Road

Acts 9:1-4:  Meanwhile, Saul was still breathing out murderous threats against the Lord’s disciples. He went to the high priest and asked him for letters to the synagogues in Damascus, so that if he found any there who belonged to the Way, whether men or women, he might take them as prisoners to Jerusalem. As he neared Damascus on his journey, suddenly a light from heaven flashed around him. He fell to the ground and heard a voice say to him, “Saul, Saul, why do you persecute me?”

One of the stories that always amazes me in Scripture is Paul’s conversion. Paul was then known as Saul of Tarsus, the man who once hated Christians. He was stopped in his tracks by the risen Christ on the road to Damascus. In that blinding light, his physical eyes were closed, but his spiritual eyes were opened. What Paul came to see in those days of blindness can still teach us something about following Jesus today.

The first thing Paul realized was that he was a sinner. That’s never easy to admit. Paul had always thought of himself as a righteous Pharisee, doing the will of God. But now he could no longer hide behind his religion or his good deeds. He realized had been fighting against the very Son of God. That’s a humbling moment we all need—to stop pretending we are better than we are and honestly admit, “I have sinned.”

Paul also saw that the religion of his fathers couldn’t save him. Tradition is powerful. Many of us grew up with faith passed down from our parents or grandparents, and that’s a blessing. But we don’t inherit faith like eye color. Each of us must come to Christ personally and develop our own obedient faith. Paul had to realize that his upbringing and heritage, as valuable as they were, weren’t enough without obedience to Jesus.

Another lesson Paul learned is that his conscience wasn’t always reliable. He had always followed his conscience, even when persecuting Christians—but he was still wrong. That’s sobering, isn’t it? Sometimes people say, “Just follow your heart,” but Paul’s story warns us that our hearts can mislead us. Our conscience needs to be shaped and corrected by God’s Word, or it will never point us in the right direction.

Paul also discovered that prayer, as important as it is, could not wash away his sins. He had spent three days praying and fasting, but it wasn’t until he obeyed the command to be baptized that his sins were forgiven (Acts 22:16). Prayer is a gift for God’s children, but for Paul (and actually even for us), forgiveness only came through obedience.

And perhaps most encouraging of all, Paul saw that it was no disgrace to change. He had been wrong—terribly wrong—but instead of clinging to pride, he humbled himself and allowed God to transform him. The man who once tried to destroy the church became one of its greatest servants. That’s what grace does—it changes us from the inside out.

Paul’s story reminds me that it’s never too late to admit we’re wrong, never too late to repent, never too late to obey Jesus. On the road to Damascus, Paul lost his sight, but he gained his vision. And maybe that’s what we need too—not just to see the world with physical eyes, but to see our lives clearly through the eyes of Christ.

Ephesians 5:19 - Singing: Worship God in His Way

Ephesians 5:19:  “Speaking to one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody in your heart to the Lord.”

When you think about worship, what comes to mind? A choir, an organ, a guitar? Or the simple voices of Christians singing together? The real question isn’t, “What do I like?” but “What does God want?”

Paul answers in Ephesians 5:19:  “Speaking to one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody in your heart to the Lord.”

Notice he doesn’t say “play” or “strum.” He says “sing.” The Greek word (ado) means to sing with the voice. When God wanted instruments in Old Testament worship, He commanded them (2 Chron. 29:25). In the New Testament, He commanded singing. Paul makes the “instrument” clear:  the heart.

This shows us worship isn’t about what pleases us, but what honors God. If Noah had used cedar instead of gopher wood, would God have been pleased? No—because God had specified. In the same way, when God specifies singing, adding instruments changes what He asked for.

Jesus said, “God is Spirit, and those who worship Him must worship in spirit and truth” (John 4:24). Worship in truth means worship on His terms.

History agrees. For centuries, Christians sang without instruments. Clement of Alexandria warned they belonged to pagan feasts, not the church. Augustine said the true instrument is the heart. Even the word a cappella means “in the style of the church.”

So why does it matter? Because worship is a gift for God. If your spouse asks for something simple and heartfelt, but you give something flashy instead, who are you really thinking about—you or them? The question in worship isn’t, “Do I like it?” but “Does God want it?”

Ephesians 5:19 makes it clear:  God wants His people to sing, making melody in their hearts. This is worship that is simple, spiritual, and centered on Him. When we lift our voices this way, we offer the kind of praise the apostles knew, the early church practiced, and God still desires.

So, the next time you sing, remember—you’re holding the only instrument God ever asked for:  the heart. Play it well, and He will be pleased.

Philippians 3:13-14 - Pressing Onward

Philippians 3:13-14

“Brothers and sisters, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus."

As I’ve gotten older, I sometimes feel like my most productive days are behind me. Maybe you’ve wondered the same about yourself. Yet the Bible reminds me that my journey of faith is a marathon, not a sprint. It doesn’t end until I step into eternity with Christ. Am I still reaching forward, or have I slowed my pace?

Like many older Christians, I sometimes feel the pull to slow down—physically and spiritually. But if I’m still breathing, God still has work for me. His purpose for my life doesn’t expire with age. Retirement in the world may mean stepping back, but in God’s kingdom, there’s no such thing as spiritual retirement. Caleb, at 85, declared in Joshua 14:10-12, “Now therefore, give me this mountain… As yet I am as strong this day as on the day that Moses sent me.” I may not have Caleb physical strength, but I can trust God to fulfill His promises, no matter my age.

The wisdom I have gathered is invaluable. Titus 2:3-5 calls older believers to mentor others, and Psalm 92:12-14 promises that the righteous will remain fruitful in every season. Whether through prayer, encouragement, or service, my contributions matter.

Though my physical energy may fade, God provides the strength to press forward. My limitations become opportunities for His power to shine. Isaiah 40:29-31 promises that “those who wait on the Lord… shall run and not be weary.” Trusting in God renews my strength to continue the journey.

My fellow believers are another source of strength. Ecclesiastes 4:9-10 reminds me of the value of companionship: “Two are better than one… For if they fall, one will lift up his companion.” Staying connected with the body of Christ provides encouragement and shared strength.

Finally, God’s Word is a powerful source of endurance. Spending time in Scripture equips me for life’s challenges and reminds me of His promises. Philippians 4:13 encourages me: “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” I will draw strength daily from God, His Word, and His people.

The impact I leave on others extends beyond what I can see. Leaving a legacy of faith means sharing God’s love and truth with future generations. Psalm 145:4 says, “One generation shall praise Your works to another.” When I share how God has worked in my life, I encourage others to trust in His faithfulness.

Investing in the next generation is vital. Whether through teaching, mentoring, or simple acts of love, my influence can inspire faith in those who come after me.

God calls me to press onward, no matter my age. I will let His strength sustain me, His purpose drive me, and His promises renew me. So I take a deep breath—my journey isn’t over—and the eternal prize awaits.

1 Thessalonians 4:9-12 - Paul's Formula for Honest Living

1 Thessalonians 4:9-12

9 But concerning brotherly love you have no need that I should write to you, for you yourselves are taught by God to love one another; 10 and indeed you do so toward all the brethren who are in all Macedonia. But we urge you, brethren, that you increase more and more; 11 that you also aspire to lead a quiet life, to mind your own business, and to work with your own hands, as we commanded you, 12 that you may walk properly toward those who are outside, and that you may lack nothing.

Paul offers timeless advice for living honestly and meaningfully. Here, he commends the Thessalonians for their love and urges them to take it further—into action. His formula is simple yet profound: live quietly, mind your own business, and work with your hands. These principles remain as relevant today as they were nearly two thousand years ago.

Paul’s call to “aspire to lead a quiet life” may sound odd. What does it mean to live quietly? It’s about striving for a calm, peaceful life free from unnecessary conflict and distraction.

Quietness fosters peace and godliness. Proverbs 17:1 says, “Better is a dry morsel with quietness than a house full of feasting with strife.” Quietness doesn’t mean withdrawing from life but creating harmony in our hearts, homes, and communities.

We can cultivate quietness by praying for it, practicing righteousness, and seeking peace. At home, we foster peace by handling conflicts with grace. At work, avoiding gossip and focusing on tasks can make us calming influences. In the community, being listeners rather than critics can build understanding.

Living quietly brings personal peace and reflects Christ’s power to transform lives.

Next, Paul advises us to “mind your own business.” This blunt-sounding phrase is a reminder to focus on our responsibilities instead of meddling in others’ affairs.

This wisdom prevents conflict and fosters accountability. Proverbs 26:17 warns, “He who passes by and meddles in a quarrel not his own is like one who takes a dog by the ears.” Our meddling just creates unnecessary drama and distracts from God’s purpose for us.

We can apply this by setting goals, resisting gossip, staying in our lane, and recognizing that everyone must make their own path. By minding our business, we protect our time, strengthen relationships, and show respect for others.

Finally, Paul encourages believers to “work with your hands,” emphasizing the value of honest labor and responsibility.

Work brings dignity, as Colossians 3:23 reminds us: “Whatever you do, do it heartily, as to the Lord and not to men.” By working diligently, we meet our needs and contribute to others’ well-being.

This means embracing the work God places before us—whether in a job, ministry, or family—and doing it with excellence. Hard work glorifies God and prevents idleness, which often leads to trouble.

Paul’s formula—live quietly, mind your business, and work with your hands—may seem countercultural in today’s fast-paced, interconnected world. Yet it’s a path to peace, respect, and faithfulness.

When we live this way, we show Christ’s transforming love. Quiet strength, accountability, and purposeful work become a testimony of the Gospel in action.

Let’s strive to live honestly, reflecting God’s grace and wisdom in a world that needs His light.

Proverbs 21:23 - Guard Your Words

Proverbs 21:23

"Whoever guards his mouth and tongue keeps his soul from troubles."

When you first read this proverb you might think . . . “Well, that makes sense. Just be careful when you speak, and you’ll avoid a lot of unnecessary problems.”

But – take a closer look. You’ll find this verse contains a powerful lesson:  the way we use our words has a direct impact on our inner peace, our relationships, and our witness to others.

How many times have you regretted something you said in the heat of the moment? You may have said a sharp word or two that hurt a loved one, or made an off-hand comment that created a misunderstanding with a friend.

Words are a little like toothpaste squeezed out of a tube – once they are out, you can’t just put them back in. That is why the Bible repeatedly tells us about the importance of controlling our speech.

For being such a small thing, the tongue sure has tremendous power – for bringing about both good and bad. Proverbs 18:21 reminds us, “Death and life are in the power of the tongue, and those who love it will eat its fruit.” With just words, we can either build others up, offering encouragement and hope – or we can tear them down with criticism and gossip. Ultimately, it is our choice, and the impact is long-lasting.

James 3:5-6 paints an even starker picture. It describes the tongue as a small spark capable of setting a great forest on fire. It’s a very vivid reminder that even a careless word can cause a lot of devastation. But the opposite is also true:  when we speak with wisdom and grace, our words can bring healing and life.

Proverbs 12:18:  The words of the reckless pierce like swords, but the tongue of the wise brings healing.

So how do we go about guarding our mouth, and especially our tongue? It all starts with being intentional. Proverbs 17:27 says, “The one who has knowledge uses words with restraint, and whoever has understanding is even-tempered.” Just pausing before we speak can give us a chance to consider if our words are true, kind, and necessary. 

That is not always easy – especially when emotions are running high. But James gives us a practical guide in James 1:19:  “My dear brothers and sisters, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to become angry.” If we listen first, then speak, we can prevent an awful lot of troubles.

Something else that is important:  prayer. Asking God for wisdom in our speech is vital, especially when we face challenging conversations. Psalm 141:3 offers a beautiful prayer for this: “Set a guard over my mouth, Lord; keep watch over the door of my lips.”

By guarding our words, we don’t just protect ourselves from external conflicts – it also brings inner peace. Harsh words and unresolved conflicts can weigh heavily on the soul, but speaking with grace and wisdom leads to clearer consciences and healthier relationships. Paul, in Colossians 4:6, encourages us to let our conversation “always be full of grace, seasoned with salt.”  

We will still make mistakes – we are human, after all, and sometimes words slip out before we can catch them. But by making a habit of thoughtful, prayerful speech, we can avoid many of the troubles Proverbs 21:23 warns about.

If all of this sounds daunting, don’t be discouraged. Just like any habit, it takes practice and God’s help. Start small. Just try to pause before responding in a tense moment. And – pray for wisdom before you have a difficult conversation. Just remember:  watch your words – they are more powerful than you think!

Matthew 10:29-31 - You Matter More Than You Know

Matthew 10:29-31

“Are not two sparrows sold for a penny? Yet not one of them will fall to the ground outside your Father’s care. And even the very hairs of your head are all numbered. So don’t be afraid; you are worth more than many sparrows.”

Have you ever felt small? Like in the, “Wow, the world is so big, and I’m just one person” kind of way? It’s easy to feel lost in the vastness of life, especially when challenges stack up or when we wonder if anyone notices us. But here’s the thing: God notices. And not just in a “keep tabs on you” kind of way — He sees you, knows you, and cares about you in a way that’s deeply personal and intentional.

Think about the profound truth of Matthew 10:29-31 for a second. Sparrows, and according to Jesus, the cheapest birds in the market, are still under God’s watchful care. He sees every single one. And if that’s true for sparrows, how much more true is it for you? You’re not just a face in the crowd to God. He knows you so intimately that He knows the number of hairs on your head. That’s not just poetic language — it’s Jesus’ way of saying, “God knows every detail about you, and you are deeply valuable to Him.”

This passage tells us something incredible about God: He’s not just the Creator of the universe; He is also the caretaker of even the smallest details. He’s involved in both the cosmic — and the personal. If God is paying attention to a sparrow falling to the ground, how much more is He paying attention to the moments of your life?

This doesn’t mean life will be without challenges. Jesus speaks these words in the context of sending His disciples out into a world that won’t always welcome them. But His point is clear: even when life feels uncertain or overwhelming, you can trust that God is with you.

It’s easy to think that our struggles or prayers get lost in the noise of the world. But Psalm 56:8 reminds us that God sees every tear and every struggle. Nothing about your life escapes His notice.

You’re not just on God’s radar — you’re carved into His very being.

Isaiah 49:15-16: “Can a mother forget the baby at her breast and have no compassion on the child she has borne? Though she may forget, I will not forget you! See, I have engraved you on the palms of my hands.”

When Jesus says, “Don’t be afraid,” He’s not brushing off your fears. He’s giving you a reason to face them:  you are valuable to God. This is the same God who created the stars — and yet He chose to knit you together in your mother’s womb (Psalm 139:13-14). He sees you as His masterpiece, His child, and someone worth everything. God’s care for you is unwavering.

So, when you feel invisible or unworthy, remember this:  God sees you. He sees your victories, your struggles, your laughter, and your tears. He sees your worth, even when you don’t. And because He sees you, you can rest in the assurance that you are never alone, never overlooked, and always loved.

So, the next time you see a sparrow flit by, let it remind you of these words. You’re worth far more than that little bird, and God has His eye on you every moment of every day. You matter more than you know.

Matthew 5:13 - How Salty Are You?

Matthew 5:13

You are the salt of the earth. But if the salt loses its saltiness, how can it be made salty again?

It is no longer good for anything, except to be thrown out and trampled underfoot.

When Jesus declared, "You are the salt of the earth" (Matthew 5:13), He wasn't asking us to go out into the world like Emeril Lagasse, shouting “Bam!” and adding flavor to everything—He was laying down a profound and meaningful guideline for how we’re meant to live as His followers.

So, what does it really mean to be the “salt of the earth,” and why does it matter so much?

First off, back in the time Matthew wrote his Gospel, salt was essential for preserving food. Before refrigeration, keeping food from spoiling, especially in hot climates, was crucial. Jesus used this image to emphasize our role in preserving the goodness and truth of God’s Kingdom in a world that can easily slip into moral decay. Paul echoes this idea in Romans 12:2, where he urges us “not to be conformed to this world, but to be transformed by renewing our minds.” By living out our faith, we help maintain the moral and spiritual integrity of society, preventing it from falling apart.

But Jesus didn’t stop at preservation. Salt also enhances flavor. It makes food taste better, just as we’re called to bring out the best in the world around us. In Colossians 4:6, Paul advises us to let our conversations be “always full of grace, seasoned with salt,” so that we know how to respond to everyone. Our words and actions should add a touch of grace, kindness, and love, making life richer and more meaningful for those around us. We’re here to add a bit of compassion to a world that can often feel bland and bitter.

Salt also represents purity. James 1:27 calls us to keep ourselves “unstained from the world.” This doesn’t mean we have to be perfect, but it does mean striving to live with integrity and holiness. By maintaining purity in our hearts and actions, as Jesus encouraged in the Beatitudes (Matthew 5:8), we set a godly example for others to follow. Our purity shines as a beacon of light in a world that can sometimes be dark.

Lastly, in ancient times, salt symbolized covenant loyalty. In Numbers 18:19, salt is mentioned in the context of the “covenant of salt” between God and His people, representing a lasting and enduring agreement. As the salt of the earth, we’re called to be steadfast in our commitment to God and the mission He has given us. This isn’t just a temporary task but a lifelong calling to be faithful witnesses of His love and truth. Paul encourages us in 1 Corinthians 15:58 to be “steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord,” knowing that our efforts are never in vain.

However, Jesus also warns us about the dangers of losing our “saltiness.” In the same verse, He says, "It is no longer good for anything, except to be thrown out and trampled underfoot." This is a serious reminder that if we, as His followers, lose our distinctiveness—if we stop living according to His teachings and values—we risk becoming ineffective in our mission.

In the ancient world, salt that had become diluted or contaminated with impurities lost its value and its effectiveness. Similarly, if we fail to live out our faith and values, we can’t fulfill the role Jesus has called us to. In this sense, our witness and influence become "useless," like flavorless salt. The phrase "thrown out and trampled underfoot" carries a sense of judgment or consequence. Just as useless salt is discarded, so too might we be if we fail to live out our calling effectively, risking irrelevance or rejection by those around us.

In essence, Jesus is urging us to maintain our distinctiveness as His disciples—preserving our "saltiness" by living in accordance with His teachings. It’s a serious responsibility, but also a joyful one. We have the opportunity to make a real difference simply by living out the values Jesus taught. Let’s embrace our role with enthusiasm and purpose, sprinkling a bit of that divine salt wherever we go—preserving goodness, enhancing life, and reflecting the purity and loyalty of our covenant with God.

Matthew 4:4 - Food for the Soul

Matthew 4:4

Jesus answered, “It is written: ‘Man shall not live on bread alone, but on every word that comes from the mouth of God.’”

I love to eat - admittedly, too much at times. You can keep your steak and potatoes, to me, there’s nothing quite like the comforting aroma of a freshly baked casserole, bubbling with cheese and filled with layers of savory goodness. Whether it’s a hearty lasagna, hot “Chicken Mexicana”, or even a classic green bean casserole, food has a way of bringing joy, warmth, and satisfaction to our lives. But as much as I cherish these earthly delights, I know that food, and all things of this world, pale in comparison to the things of Heaven. It’s essential to keep this perspective in mind, especially when we consider the teachings of Jesus in Matthew 4:4.

After fasting for 40 days in the wilderness (Matthew 4:4), Jesus responds to the devil’s temptation by saying, “Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that comes from the mouth of God.” This profound statement reminds us that while food nourishes our bodies, it is God's word that truly sustains us. The physical nourishment we receive from food is temporary and fleeting, but the spiritual nourishment we gain from God’s word is eternal and life-giving.

Jesus' response teaches us that the things of this world, even something as essential as food, must be put into perspective. The world offers many things that can satisfy us temporarily—food, wealth, success, and comfort—but these are fleeting. In contrast, the words of God offer lasting fulfillment and guide us toward eternal life.

This principle is echoed throughout Scripture. In Deuteronomy 8:3, Moses reminds the Israelites that God humbled them and allowed them to hunger so that they might learn, “man does not live by bread alone, but man lives by every word that comes from the mouth of the Lord.” God’s provision goes beyond physical needs and extends to spiritual sustenance.

In John 6:35, Jesus declares, “I am the bread of life; whoever comes to me shall not hunger, and whoever believes in me shall never thirst.” Here, Jesus identifies Himself as the ultimate source of spiritual nourishment. While casseroles may satisfy our physical hunger, only Jesus, the Bread of Life, can satisfy our spiritual hunger and thirst.

Matthew 4:4 also highlights the importance of relying on Scripture to guide our lives. Jesus, in His moment of physical weakness, turns to Scripture for strength and guidance. Jesus models for us the importance of immersing ourselves in God’s word, allowing it to be our anchor in times of temptation and trial. Psalm 119:105 reflects this truth by saying, “Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.” It’s God’s word that illuminates our way and sustains us through life’s challenges.

The verse also reminds us to trust in God’s provision. In a world where we’re often tempted to rely on our own efforts to meet our needs, Jesus shows us that true reliance is on God alone. Philippians 4:19 assures us, “And my God will supply every need of yours according to his riches in glory in Christ Jesus.” When we trust in God’s provision, we acknowledge that He knows our needs better than we do and that He will provide for us in ways that are far beyond what this world can offer.

So while I may love casseroles and all the wonderful foods this world has to offer, I know that they are only temporary pleasures. The word of God, the Bread of Life, offers sustenance that will carry us through this life and into eternity. Let us remember to prioritize the spiritual over the physical, to rely on Scripture for guidance, and to trust in God’s unfailing provision. In doing so, we’ll find that the things of this world, as delightful as they may be, truly pale in comparison to the things of Heaven.