Galatians 2:20 - Have You Had a Close Call?

Galatians 2:20

I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I now live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me.

Have you ever had a “close call”? Maybe you just missed being hit by a car that didn’t see you while changing lanes. Or perhaps you were hit—but came through the experience with only a few bumps and bruises—yet when you look at your car, you wonder how you weren’t killed!

If you’ve lived a normal life, you can probably look back and recall a lot of close calls—some closer than others.

A close call with death can dramatically change us—how we see life, what we consider important, and what we realize isn’t. These close calls make us more aware of our mortality and cause us to rethink our priorities. Where we once felt invincible and thought death was something that happened to others, we now see how fragile life is, and our view of what matters is turned upside down.

For Christians, recognizing our vulnerability can actually help us grow spiritually. In fact, if we don’t have a close call with evil, we might end up with just a set of beliefs—not truly understanding what Christ wants us to become.

Real conversion happens when we grasp the dangers we face and recognize our need for salvation. This deeper understanding helps us fully appreciate Jesus’ sacrifice.

Surviving a close call also reshapes our sense of strength and weakness. When we understand our vulnerability, we are humbled—but in that weakness, we often find true strength. Paul said in 2 Corinthians 12:10, “For when I am weak, then I am strong.” He was reminding us that resilience and faith are where true power lies.

These close call experiences often lead us to change how we live. For instance, we might start taking better care of ourselves or pursue dreams we’ve been putting off. In Romans 12:2, Paul urges us to “be transformed by the renewing of your mind.” A close call can inspire us to live more purposefully, in line with God’s will.

Paul’s own conversion in Acts 9 is a powerful example. His encounter with Jesus on the road to Damascus was a dramatic close call that completely changed him. On his way to persecute Christians, he suddenly saw how wrong he had been, and his life was never the same. In Galatians 2:20, Paul wrote, “I have been crucified with Christ, and it is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me.” His encounter didn’t just change his beliefs—it changed him at the core.

A close call reminds us that life is fragile and helps us focus on what truly matters. It gives us an opportunity to reset our priorities, deepen our compassion, and live with greater intention and gratitude. Through these moments, we learn to embrace life more fully, understand what God has done for us through His Son, and recognize that each day is a blessing.

Romans 8:28 - God's Fingerprints

Romans 8:28

"And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose."

Certain truths can astound me even when I intellectually understand them. Things like gravity — the invisible force that anchors us to the Earth and directs planetary motion. Or flight — where enormous metal planes defy gravity with nothing but air. And magnetism, too, with its invisible forces pulling and pushing objects, all seem a bit like magic, but are real facts of life.

Among these everyday marvels, one that truly intrigues me is the fingerprint. Each person's fingerprints are unique, not even identical twins share the same patterns. The idea that no two individuals, past or future, will ever have the same fingerprints is astonishing. Though they are formed in our 10th week in the womb, our fingerprints serve as a personal identifier for the rest of our lives – and beyond. This remarkable detail in our design underscores the handiwork of our Creator.

Just as we have unique fingerprints, so does God. His fingerprints are recognizable in our lives. We can see them when we reflect on such past experiences where things fell into place or help arrived just in time. Instances like these encourage us to trust Him with our present and future. God's fingerprints are deeply personal and affirm His involvement in every detail of our lives. Understanding this helps us trust in His continued guidance.

Consider Abraham's story (Genesis 22). He was directed by God to sacrifice his long-awaited son – his beloved son, Isaac. Abraham trusted God even in this extreme situation. But, God intervened, affirming Abraham's faith.

Then there's Joseph (Genesis 37, 39-41, 50:20). Betrayed, sold into slavery, imprisoned, and ultimately rising to power in Egypt, Joseph saw God's fingerprints shaping events for a greater purpose.

These stories show that recognizing God's fingerprints in our past builds faith to trust Him with our present and future.

Reflecting on the past, we see God's fingerprints in significant events. Jesus' crucifixion, viewed as a defeat, was actually God's greatest work, bringing forgiveness, redemption, and reconciliation.

2 Corinthians 5:21 reminds us of the crucifixion, where God’s fingerprints are seen in forgiveness, redemption, and reconciliation. Just as those witnessing Jesus’ death didn’t see God’s plan, we might not recognize His work in our lives until we look back.

Personal experiences also reveal God's handiwork. Despite challenges, my life, career, and marriage reflect God's guiding hand, providing comfort and encouragement.

Reflecting on my life, I see God's fingerprints in countless situations. Growing up without a father, graduating college against the odds, and meeting my wife are clear signs of His work. Even recent job transitions showcase God’s guidance. Romans 8:28 assures us that God works for the good of those who love Him.

Can those around you see God's fingerprints on your life? Husbands, wives, young people, and Christians—let God’s influence be evident in your relationships and actions. Though as we dislike fingerprints on windows and mirrors, we should welcome God’s fingerprints on our hearts. Ezekiel 36:26 promises a new heart, molded by God.

Who is shaping your heart? If it's hard and unfeeling, Satan’s fingerprints are all over it. But a kind and compassionate heart reflects God’s touch. Baptism, where we give our hearts over to God, as described in Romans 6:3-4, is the start of our new life in Christ. Let God mold your heart, leaving His distinctive fingerprints, guiding and transforming you.

Colossians 3:9-10 - Who Are You?

Colossians 3:9-10

Do not lie to each other, since you have taken off your old self with its practices and have put on the new self, which is being renewed in knowledge in the image of its Creator.

When you interact with other people, who are you? How would you describe yourself?

Are you the Person of Mystery? The person who never lets anyone see the "real you," instead creating a facade that only shows others what you want them to see – not your true self inside?

Are you the Chameleon? Are you like the color-changing lizard that matches its surroundings, adapting to people, shifting your personality based on who you are with at the moment?

Are you the "What You See Is What You Get" person? Do you say, "I am who I am and I won’t change," and equate honesty with being coarse and abrasive, refusing to adjust your behavior to avoid “hypocrisy”?

Ask yourself this question:  What does the way you interact with others have to do with being a Christian? Colossians 3:9-10 calls us to be authentic and true, reflecting the transformation and renewal that comes from Christ.

Some think being a Christian means belonging to a Church. They equate their faith with their church attendance, not by any personal identity or transformation. Others think being a Christian is the same thing as being a good person. They see Christianity as being all about moral behavior. So, they avoid major sins, are generally good neighbors, and they believe in God—but without any deeper personal change. Also, for many today, Christianity is only about beliefs and actions, not identity. To them, it is about doing the right things at the right times, and not about their own personal transformation.

Jesus faced a similar issue with the Jewish people of the first century. His ministry was primarily to the Jews, who believed their ancestry (themselves, being descendants of Abraham) assured their status as God’s People. John the Baptist warned them against relying on their lineage, urging genuine repentance and transformation (Luke 3:8). Jesus echoed this in John 8:31-33, challenging their misplaced confidence in their ancestry.

If we were asked if we are sure we are Christians, and we answered, "Because we are members of the Church of Christ," would that answer be any better than the Jews of the first century? The true mark of belonging to God is a changed life. Two prominent New Testament figures illustrate this.

The apostle Peter vowed never to deny Jesus, yet he did three times -- but. after Jesus’ resurrection, he reaffirmed his love for Jesus, and Peter proved to be a powerful leader, as we see in the book of Acts (John 21:15-17).

The apostle Paul started out as a violent enemy of Christians, but his encounter with the resurrected Jesus changed him completely. He went from arresting and imprisoning Christians to nurturing and cherishing them like a nursing mother (1 Thessalonians 2:7-12).

God loves you and wants to bless you beyond your comprehension, but His ability to bless you depends on your willingness to repent, change, grow, and mature. The transformation begins with baptism, which unites us with Christ and brings us into a relationship with God. As Romans 6:3-4 says, "Or don’t you know that all of us who were baptized into Christ Jesus were baptized into his death? We were therefore buried with him through baptism into death in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead through the glory of the Father, we too may live a new life."

This leads back to the fundamental question: "Who am I?" If you are not happy with your answer, let God change you!

Hebrews 11:1 - Faith and Doubt

 Hebrews 11:1

"Now faith is confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see."

Faith and doubt—two forces we often struggle with—seem like polar opposites, but have you ever thought of them as companions? The tension between faith and doubt is a natural part of our Christian walk.

Faith, by its nature, requires a leap into the unknown. 

Faith asks us to believe in something we can't tangibly prove or understand, which often leaves us teetering on the edge of doubt.

Doubt can feel like a gust of wind threatening to knock us off balance. But what if we saw doubt not as an enemy but as an ally in our spiritual growth? Think about the disciple, Thomas, often called “Doubting Thomas.” He doubted Jesus' resurrection until he saw and touched the wounds himself. Jesus didn’t scold him; He offered His hands and side and said, “Stop doubting and believe” (John 20:27). This didn’t weaken Thomas’ faith; it strengthened it.

John 20:28:  Thomas said to him, "My Lord and my God!"

Doubt pushes us to dig deeper, ask tough questions, and seek profound answers. 

James 1:5-6: "If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you. But when you ask, you must believe and not doubt." 

We aren’t called to suppress doubt but to seek wisdom through it. God often uses our questions to draw us closer. Wrestling with doubt makes our faith more authentic and deeply rooted, like gold refined in fire.

A faith that never faces doubt remains fragile. A tree that never faces strong winds might look impressive but lacks deep roots. Faith that has weathered storms of doubt stands strong and resilient. By facing doubt head-on, our faith learns to rely on God’s promises. 

Romans 5:3-4: "Not only so, but we also glory in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope." 

Faith and doubt are part of the messy journey of life, reflecting our yearning for truth and a deeper connection with God. Having doubts and seeking answers is part of growing in faith. Embrace the tension between faith and doubt. Let your questions lead you closer to God and your uncertainties drive you deeper into His word. 

Psalm 23:4: "Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me."

It’s not about having all the answers but trusting in the One who does. Faith and doubt together can lead us to a more genuine, resilient, and profound faith.

1 John 4:8 - Why Does God Love Us?

1 John 4:8

"Whoever does not love does not know God, because God is love."

When you think about mankind, and think about how we are basically selfish, uncooperative, and disrespectful, you have to ask yourself the question, “Why does God love man?” This age-old question can be answered in several ways, but ultimately, it boils down to the nature of God Himself.

God’s love for mankind is a reflection of His own nature. The Apostle John told us in 1 John 4:8 that God is love. Everything He does is motivated by love. Think about that. It isn't because we have earned His love, or that we deserve His love. He loves us because He is love.

God has shown us His love from the very beginning. He created us in His own image (Genesis 1:26-27). By our very design, we have some inherent value and worth because of who designed us! God has invested His own personal interest in each of us and desires a relationship with each of us.

What is mind-bending is that even with our flaws and imperfections, God’s love for us is unconditional. We see that in the sacrifice of His Son, Jesus Christ. Jesus died on the cross to pay the penalty – not for anything He did – but for our sins (John 3:16.) Do you really need any more evidence than that? God’s love for us isn’t based on our performance – but on His character.

Romans 5:8:  "But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us."

Now, it is important to understand that God’s love is not just a warm and fuzzy feeling. God’s love is an active and transformative love. When we accept God’s love and allow it to work in our lives, it changes who we are – changes us from the inside out. We become more like Christ and are able to love others the same way God loves us.

Remember, though, God’s love for us and our love for Him is not just about feeling good; He expects us to respond to His love with reverence and obedience. God desires that we love Him deeply and respect Him, following His commands as an expression of our love and gratitude. Jesus Himself said, "If you love me, keep my commands" (John 14:15). This shows that our love for God must be evident in our actions and our willingness to live according to His will.

We need to return God's love to Him, not because we have to or because He will stop loving us if we don't, but because it is the right thing to do to show our appreciation – much like a child shows love and respect for their parents. This is a natural response to the profound and selfless love that God has shown us.

1 John 5:3:  "In fact, this is love for God: to keep his commands. And his commands are not burdensome.".

Let us be thankful for God’s love and allow it to transform our lives so that we can love others the same way. Let us also remember to love and fear Him, showing our commitment through obedience to all of His commands, as a true expression of our appreciation and gratitude.

 

Jeremiah 31:31-34 - God's Memory

Jeremiah 31:31-34

31 “The days are coming,” declares the Lord, “when I will make a new covenant with the people of Israel and with the people of Judah. 32 It will not be like the covenant I made with their ancestors when I took them by the hand to lead them out of Egypt, because they broke my covenant, though I was a husband to them,” declares the Lord.

33 “This is the covenant I will make with the people of Israel after that time,” declares the Lord. “I will put my law in their minds and write it on their hearts. I will be their God, and they will be my people. 

34 No longer will they teach their neighbor, or say to one another, ‘Know the Lord,’ because they will all know me, from the least of them to the greatest,” declares the Lord. “For I will forgive their wickedness and will remember their sins no more.”

Isn't human memory fascinating? It's so crucial to our lives that without it, we couldn't even manage simple tasks like walking or swallowing. Yet, our memories have a funny way of working. Have you noticed how we're more likely to remember the bad stuff and forget the good? We often dwell on our failures and flaws, while our successes and talents slip our minds.

Let me ask you something. When you think of David from the Old Testament, what's the first thing that pops into your mind? Is it the scandal with Bathsheba? Or do you think of David as "the man whose heart belonged to God"?

David’s story beautifully highlights the difference between human memory and God's memory. If you read 1 and 2 Samuel and 1 Kings, you'll see how God remembered David long after he had died, doing great things "for the sake of David." God clearly remembered David and acted because of those memories.

But was David perfect? No way! He committed serious sins – even murder and adultery! Yet, despite these, God consistently remembered that David’s heart was devoted to Him.

Here’s something amazing about God's memory: Jeremiah 31:31-34 talks about a new covenant where God promises, "I will forgive their iniquity, and their sin I will remember no more." This means a time would come when God would forget every sin He forgave. The writer of Hebrews echoes this prophecy in Hebrews 10:16-17, stating that Jesus Christ fulfills it. When God forgives us through Jesus, those forgiven sins vanish from His memory.

Maybe you're thinking, "God couldn't possibly have any good memories of me. Why would He act with goodness or mercy towards me?" Even if that feels true right now, it can change. When we sincerely and humbly give our hearts to God, and allow Him to wash our sins in baptism, He forgives—and when He forgives, He forgets our wrongs.

Acts 2:38:  Peter replied, “Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. And you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.

Remember Hebrews 10:16-17, quoting from Jeremiah:  “This is the covenant I will make with them after that time, says the Lord. I will put my laws in their hearts, and I will write them on their minds.” Then he adds: “Their sins and lawless acts I will remember no more.”

Isn't that incredible? It's a beautiful reminder of God's amazing grace and mercy.

1 Peter 5:8 - Are You Watching For Snakes?

1 Peter 5:8
Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil walks about like a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour.

When I was 14 years old, my cousin, my uncle and I were fishing along the bank of a remote river in California. I was walking a bit up ahead of the others, and was having a great time hopping from rock to rock.

To the side of the trail, I saw a bundle of twigs on top of some rocks. It seemed out of place somehow, so I stopped to look. And – I almost didn’t see what it was! I had almost stepped on a baby snake sunning itself on a rock. It wasn’t moving, just laying there all twisted up.

I went back to find my uncle and told him that I had just found a baby snake. He teased me about being afraid of a baby, but came with me to see it. My cousin, Gary and I were ahead of him, but when my uncle saw the snake, he yelled for us to stop, then came up and pulled us backwards. Looking at me, he said, “I thought you said this was a baby snake.” (If my wits had been quicker, I would have said, “Well, it had a rattle.”) Apparently, what I thought was a baby turned out to be about 30 inches long rattlesnake!

Have you ever noticed that spiritual danger is quite often like that snake (or a lion, as Peter says). It can be right in front of us – with the power to cause us serious hurt – yet, because we do not see it, we are convinced there is no danger. It is in that ignorance we often inflict heavy, unnecessary pain on ourselves.

Think about this:  every day we are walking in the “wilderness” and we are about to step on “poisonous snakes” our eyes are untrained to see. There are so many things we need to be watchful for, and the world is trying to lull us into being complacent. But – that is how we get bitten!

In 1 Peter 1:13-21, Peter was writing to a group of Christians, who had suffered because of their relationship with Jesus Christ, and their suffering was soon to get more severe. He was basically saying, "You people need to prepare to be even more serious about your devotion to Jesus Christ."

He was warning them to not make money, physical pleasure, or things of this world the foundation of their sustaining hope, but instead to make the foundation of their hope the grace made available in Jesus Christ's resurrection.

Before we step on that poisonous snake — I think Peter's directive is very applicable to us. I believe Peter was saying, "It is time to be serious about your commitment to God. Remember who and what you were before, and who and what you are now as a Christian. You are no longer living a godless lifestyle of personal indulgence. Your new commitment is now to the holiness of God, the One who saves you through His Son. Your time as a physical creature is only for a short time — so do not let money, pleasure, popular ideas or lifestyles determine or define who you are. Only one thing should define who you are — God's grace – revealed in the resurrection of Jesus Christ. God can remake you and your life because of that grace.”

And, remember this:  your hope is not in yourself or anything you do! You cannot merit a relationship with God!

Ephesians 2:8-9:   8 For by grace you have been saved through faith, and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God, 9 not of works, lest anyone should boast.

Your hope is God's grace revealed in Jesus' resurrection!  Surely you obey responsibly — but your obedience is merely declaring your appreciation for God's grace!