Unwavering Faith (Romans 4:13-25 ESV)

 

About Abraham ...

"He did not weaken in faith when he considered his own body ... No unbelief made him waver ... but he grew strong in his faith as he gave glory to God, fully convinced ... his faith was "counted to him (imputed KJV) as righteousness" (Romans 4:19-20 ESV).

When you look at some of the verbs there, it emphasizes how solid Abraham's faith had been. 

 "He did not weaken" 

followed by 

"no unbelief made him waver,"

 then 

"he grew strong in faith". 

 

How did he do that?  By 

"giving glory to God."  

He was fully convinced God would keep His promise to Him, despite all the impossible odds against an heir being apparent.  What's more is that this heir was not just Isaac his son, but through him and his faith, would come the

 "heir of the world" (vs. 13)!  

How profound is that!

No challenge is too great for God!  

"With God all things are possible" (Matthew 19"26).

When we see our health weaken, when we have obvious limitations in any other capacity, we too can be fully convinced that God keeps His promises.

The promise God made to Abraham was that he'd have a son by Sarah.  Both were in their old age.  Sarah had been barren even in her younger child-bearing years and now you expect her to bear a child!?  Incredulous.

But Abraham believed God.  It was

 "counted/imputed to him as righteousness" (see vs 22).

The emphasis is on Abraham's belief.  That is, versus unbelief.  Will we believe God and His promises?  Will we grow strong in our faith in Jesus despite all odds, even by giving glory to God when things look bleak otherwise?

Let us believe 

"in Him who raised from the dead Jesus our Lord.  He lived and died for our tresspasses and raised for our justification" ( vs 23-25).

Believe in this salvation that it is by faith not by whatever good deeds and works we may be doing as penance or in hope to achieve getting into God's good books.

That is not how God works.

"By grace you have been saved through faith.  And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, not a result of works, so that no one can boast" (Ephesians 2:8-9 ESV).

Furthermore, Abraham lived by faith and then showed it by his works (vs 4).  His spirit knew within him how he needed to live and whom he needed and could trust.  In so doing he became

 "the father of all who believe ..." (vs 11).

May we each be encouraged to have unwavering faith in our loving, heavenly Father God through Jesus Christ our Lord. Cling on to Jesus.

Heavenly Father, thank You for the example of such a man of solid faith as Abraham.  May we too grow in grace and in faith by giving you glory and honor; living our lives to please You, serving You with our whole hearts, and that trust in You and Your promises that You will bring us Home to Yourself in Your good timing.  May we ever be faithful and cling to Jesus all the days of our lives until Jesus comes.  Perhaps today.  In Jesus' name we pray. Amen.

                                                      ~  ERC  April  2026  ~

Based on Romans 4:13-25 ESV.

Sing, My Hope is Built On Nothing Less, along with Sovereign Grace Music.

Reaching Out to You (Romans 3:1-8, 21-31 ESV)

 Growing up in a Christian family will have its advantages.  The offspring learn from early age, all the deportment of a Christain.  If they abide by it, they do have better shelter from harmful things. That's generally speaking.  Some Christian families may not behave as Christian as you might think they should, however.

But, again, that's all generally speaking, and the children know it all in their heads.  It certainly doesn't mean they have it all in their hearts.  So some of them kick against it in resistance and rebellion.  

Then they may feel guilt for this reaction and become angry and even bitter and so turn away from their roots.  Even so, I believe that generally speaking, much of what was taught, does stick and govern their lives in unaccountable ways, even subconsciously.  I know.  I was one of them.  At times, that resistance can still flair up.

These thoughts struck me as being parallel in many ways in which Paul describes the advantages the Jews had over the Gentiles, in Romans 3.  The Jews claimed the oracle of God for themselves, as if they'd had a monopoly on them.  But they did not know that they were the 'trustees' - if you will - of The Law and the Prophets (Old Testament).  And even though they were not necessarily following it all from the heart or the head, they were not willing to share it with others.  They got violent at even slight mentions of any such thing happening (read the book of Acts for more details of this).

Paul is addressing some of this and trying to get his audience to undersand.  Justification can come not just through the law but more importantly through faith.

"All have sinned" (vs 23), 

not just the Jews and not just the Gentiles.  All.  All mankind,

"fall short of the glory of God" (vs 23).

Therefore, all,

"are justified by His grace as a gift, through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus ..." (vs 24).

Yes, it came to the Jews first, but God meant His gift of salvation for all, for the "whosoever will" (see John 3:16), who would believe in Jesus, by faith (vs 28).

So whether we have grown up in a Chriustian family or not in today's world, it is still, "by faith" that we enter into God's family through Jesus.

It still has to come voluntarily from the will and heart of a person.  It is not by religiously following a creed or set of laws but through faith in Jesus Christ and His offer of salvation.

Those of us who have grown up in Christian families ... let's not throw out the baby with the bath water.  We may have observed many inconsistancies and hyporcrisy in our own family or among the church people you've met.  There's something called, "progressive sanctification" that each and every believer in Jesus Christ needs to be responsibly and pro-actively aware.  If we are not living by faith, if we are not walking in step with the Holy Spirit, living a disciplined Christian life, there will be those who do not live to please the Lord.  The product of that is the hypocrisy you've endured and even felt disgusted and disgruntled by.  This is sad fact.

We need to search our own hearts and lives and see where we are out of line.  Let's not throw out everything we've been brought up immersed in, let's break free of those bonds though that don't add up. Set our own course accordingly and live to please the Lord by the power of His might and Holy Spirit empowerment.

I reach out especially to those who have grown up in Christian families and have been almost totally immersed in a Christian community all their lives.  It can be tough finding our way then through non-Christian territory.  But I'd encourage you to spend time with the Lord and listen for His voice.  He'll steer us right when we heed His guidance.  

May our Lord be near and dear to you.  I ask in Jesus' name, amen.

                                            ~  ERC  April 2026   ~

Based on Romans 3:1-8, 21-31 ESV.

Sing, Christus Victor, along with Keith and Kristyn Getty.

Made in the Image of God

 What does it mean?  This being made in the image of God, what is it all about?

Well, it's important to know this, to get it into our minds because then it affects our thinking and actions for the good and better of those who understand it.  But we need to go back to God's word to check it out.

In Genesis 1:27 we're told,

"So God created man in His own image, in the image of God he created Him; male and female He created them" (ESV).

Made in the image of God ...

What is an image?

When we look into the mirror we see ourself. It is only an image or picture of ourself, it is not our real self.  Pinch your cheeks now, feel it?  That's you, yourself.  What you see in the mirror or in a selfie is the image of you.

So how is it that we are an image of God?

Some people think we Christians worship and serve three gods.  But I say, no, that's not correct.  We worship and serve only the one true God and Jesus Christ His Son.  Know that God is God the Father, God the Son and God the Holy Spirit.  The Almighty, Supreme Being who is God with three persons or maybe it can be understood as 'roles'.

Take your Mother, for instance.  She was first a daughter.  How she relates to her parents is one way.  Then she got married and became a wife.  She relates to her husband in another way that is different from how she relates to her parents.  Then she had you, and perhaps other children too.  Now she is a Mother.  She relates to you, her son or  daughter differently than how she relates to her husband which is again, different to how she relates to her parents.  She is only one person but she has three roles or functions, shall we say.

God the Father is the mastermind to the plan of creation and the plan of salvation.  God the Son, who is Jesus, is the one who implemented the plan. He spoke and the world and all that in it is, appeared.  God the Holy Spirit, hovered over all like a life-giving agent.  He is one Being and each role was initiated differently and accordingly.  

You could perhaps get out a triangular hanger and see the three sides of it as being a representation of the Father, Son and the Holy Spirit.  If you take one arm away, the hanger will not function well, it will be weak and shaky.  So too, one cannot separate God the Father, God the Son and God the Holy Spirit.  They cannot be separated.

Go boil an egg until it is hard boiled.  You have a whole egg there, right?  Well, remove the shell.  Is the egg still whole?  No.  The shell has been separated away.  Now remove the egg white.  You are left then with the yolk that is separated from the rest.  If you hold up the shell, or the white or the yolk, you no longer have a whole egg.  Correct, or not?  The three parts have been separated and can not be put back together again, like Humpty Dumpty who had had a great fall.  All the pieces cannot be put together again.

But, God, despite His three persons, cannot be separated, at all.  We serve one God.

At creation, God formed human kind last of all and installed them (Adama and Eve) in the beautiful Garden of Eden.  He then told Adam (and Eve), 

"Don't eat of the tree of the knowledged of good and evil because in the day you do you will surely die" (Genesis 2:16 ESV).

But Adam did disobey and he did eat of that tree's fruit.  But he did not instantly die.  We read that he lived to be 930 years old (Genesis 5:5).

So how?  Was God lying?

No.

This is the part we're coming to where we can realize more fully about being made in the image of God, and how valuable we are to Him.

As you know from reading above, God is three in one:  Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.  Mankind has three parts too.  They are body, soul and spirit.  This makes them different than the animal kingdom.  Our pets, zoo animals and those in the wild all have only a body and a soul.

The body is easy to understand:  arms, legs, hair, liver, heart, the seeing, smelling, hearing, tasting, touch, and the like.   Our soul is the mind, will and emotions.  The will says, "I do not want this or that" or "I want!"  The emotions are sad, happy, tired, angry, depressed and so on.  The mind thinks it all.  Our spirit, on the other hand is the part of the human being that is God-conscious.  That niggling part of us that knows there's God even if we do not wish to admit it.

"He has made everything beautiful in its time.  He has also set eternity in the human heart ..." (Ecclesastes 3:11 NIV).

'Eternity' in the human heart.  God is the Eternal one.  

None of this was said about the animal kingdom (including the birds, insects, fish, etc).  Nothing about eternity, nor the spirit.

When God formed Adam out of the dust of the earth, we read this about what the Lord God did.  He,

" ... formed the man of dust from the ground and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life, and the man became a living creature ..." (Genesis 2:7 ESV).

God's 'breath of life' was breathed into Adam.  He had just been a lump of formed clay lying there.  But then the breath of life came and Adam got up and walked around.  He was now a "living creature".

Maybe you can picture this if you blow into a balloon.  That is your breath of life filling the balloon.  Not that we human beings are balloons, of course.  Ha, ha.  But for Adam, God's breath of life was life giving.

God made us special, differently from the animal kingdom.  I believe this shows us that we have value in God's eyes.  We are very important to to Him.  In fact He calls us His jewels or treasured possessions (see Malachi 3:17 KJV/ESV).

It is important to realize this because, every single baby in its mother's womb is also precious.  These babies have also been made in the image of God, whether or not it has been born.

Born or unborn, both are precious in God's sight because the human being has been made in the image of God.  Each human life needs to be protected.

So how does this make you feel?

You are of value to God.  Even when other people put you down and make you feel as small as an ant or cockroach to squish you under their feet, know in your heart and mind that you are NOT that.  Cling tightly on to this knowledge.  You are God's treasured possession!

To continue the story ...

Adam had his body, soul and then spirit.  His spirit was innocent.  He had not yet sinned.  He could sin or he could choose not to sin, though.  He was still innocent.  But he disobeyed God and ate of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil.  Adam sinned.  Instantly, his spirit died.  

It is like someone took a pin and popped the balloon.  

His spirit did not leave but it died.  Every single baby born after this was was born with a dead spirit. 

And this is where Jesus comes in again.  God's mastermind plan of salvation was carried out by Jesus.  He came to earth, died on the cross for our sins, was buried, was resurrected and then ascending into Heaven.  He is alive.

Any and all who accept Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior, are then indwelt by His Holy Spirit.  This is like getting that breath of life breathed into our nostrils.  Our spirit is revived and we become new creatures in Christ - alive in Christ.   Jesus did this for us.  He did not die for animals, but for human beings.

He has given us forgiveness of sins, eternal life, our spirits made alive.  Now we can glorify God in the right way.  We can build our relationship with Him and make it strong because His Holy Spirit helps us to live to please Jesus, and to reflect God's holiness.  

Why?

Because we have been made in the image of God.

It's important to know this and to believe it.  

May every last person who reads this realize it.

I ask it in Jesus' name, amen.

                                                 ~  ERC  April 2026  ~

Based on Genesis 1:27, 2:16, 5:5, 2:7 ESV, and Betsy Fletcher's explanations for children video.

Sing, In the Image of God,  along with Perkantas Jakarta.

God's Kindness (Romans 2:1-11 ESV, esp vs 4)

 

If only we would allow God's kindness and goodness, His forbearance and His patience to seep into our souls.  If only ... His kindness might lead us to repentance (Romans 2:4 ESV).

We cannot presume upon them.  We need to have a holy life.  We need lives that do not insist on doing wrong, especially all that list of them as we read in Romans 1.  When we know what's right and pleasing to the Lord but keep

 "hard and impenitent hearts" (vs 5), 

 insisting we can slander, envy, be deceitful, and use our bodies in ways they were not designed to be used, (read more about the ungodly and unrighteous way of living from Romans 1:18, 28-32) there will be not change for good in our lives.  And definitely do not say, 

"everyone else is doing it!  So why not me?"

If we purport to be followers of Jesus Christ we need to honor God with our lives.  The Apostle Paul was telling the Roman letter recipients thoroughly of these things.

When we know to do right but do not do it, it damages our souls.  Let's yearn for and after God's kindness so we will be led to repentance and find honor and peace from Him.

As Billy Graham has been attributed with having said,

"God won't trespass on your will but He will warn you in many ways about your way."

May we seek repentance and to do what's right in God's eyes because we have been led to this point by His goodness and kindness.  He is patiently waiting for us. 

Lord, teach us Your ways and to follow in Your footsteps until You call us Home.

                                               ~  ERC  April 2026  ~

Based on Romans 2:1-11 esp vs 4 ESV.

Sing, Yet Not I But Through Christ In Me, along with City Alight.

                                              

Lord's Day Devotion - "Welcome Home" Light

 Lighthouses are beautiful and picturesque, standing straight and tall, and often alone.  They don't let vanity go to their heads though.  Lighthouses let their lights shine out so those at sea may see.

That is their function and purpose so that hopefully, passing ships are not wrecked on reefs, rocks and the like.  We could also say, they are "welcoming home" beacons.

Jesus called Himself the Light of the world.  He said:

"I am the light of the world.  Whoever follows Me will not walk in darkness, but will have the light of life" (John 8:12 ESV).

He is our Lighthouse.  He is the whole world's Lighthouse.  If only all would be guided by Him to come safely ashore to receive His offer of salvation.

Many of us have.

In turn now, He has purposed us, His followers, to be the light of the world so that our generations will

 "not walk in darkness but have the light of life."

He says in Matthew 5:16,

"... let your light shine before others, so they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in Heaven" (Matthew 5:16 ESV).

We may often feel 'alone' in our shine-ing but we can still be as resolute as a lighthouse, welcoming others home to the safe arms of Jesus.  We can stand straight and tall for the Lord, remembering our function and purpose so that we give God glory and draw others to Christ Jesus - The Light of the World.

Let's remember Jesus our Savior, our Light, as we partake of the broken bread this Lord's Day and drink of the  cup of wine in rmemberance of his death and resurrection for us, and His having been our Light that brought us out of darkness.

Praise You Jesus, for showing up the safe route by being Light for us.  Thank You.  Amen.

                                                 ~  ERC  April 2026  ~

Based on Matthew 5:16 and John 8:12 ESV.

Sing, The Light of the World is Jesus, along with N Crew.

In the Same Breath (Romans 1:28-32 ESV)

 " ... to do what ought not to be done  ... though they know God's righteous decree ..." (Romans 1:28 & 32 ESV).

More and more I've seen and experienced this.  And I believe that many of us will be able to acknowledge that even in our own hearts there are roots of this.  We know in our heads what's right in God's eyes but we cast it aside to do what we ought not.

And it's easy to point at others because of the pronouns used in these verses:  "they," "they," and "they," multiple times.  So this does not include "me," right?  Ha, ha.  We need to think again.

It is good to examine ourselves in God's mirror.  He equates several ugly things in one sentence.  Read verses 29 and 30.

To name some of those 'ugly' things there's:   covetousness, envy and gossip that don't seem quite so bad as murder and maliciousness.  Do they?

Yet God says them all in one breath.  Many of the so-called, in our sight, "lesser evils" may well be the kindling and spark that set off a chain reaction lighting fire to the others.

When we allow our minds to become "debased," not acknowledging God and the ways we have been taught - perhaps since birth if one so happens to have been raised in a Christian family -  then God

 "gives the person up" 

to his own desires.

God doesn't force anyone.

We get to choose and if it's the wayward way, away from God's standards and values, then He will let the person go.  That's what they wanted.

Until ...until there's repentance.  There is still hope of reconciliation although one may still have to bear some of the consequences of our own bad earlier choices.

The verses at the outset of this article are what really concern me.  Because those of us who have lived in the Christian community since birth and/or have been Christians for decades, we know a lot about God, Jesus and living the 'right' way according to His standards and values.  It's A LOT of knowledge.

But do we have understanding?  Do we have it in our heart?  Do we live it?  This is what I ask myself.

And if I gossip, become haughty or boastful, I have to remember that in the same breath, God equates insolence and murder, heartless and the ruthless people.

It is a serious thought.  Let's humbly confess to our Lord and Savior, the areas we need to sincerely address.  Come before Him on our knees, in contrite repentance.  If we confess, He'll forgive (see 1 John 1:9).

"In all our ways, let's acknowledge Him,"

and keep close to Him, walking in His ways, not to be meaninglessly rote, but from sincerity of heart (see Proverbs 3:6)

Lord, we, Your followers, know that Your Holy Spirit indwells us and that we are God's temple of Your Holy Spirit.  Help us to be more conscious of His presence in and with us, so that we live aright and please You.  I ask in Your name Lord Jesus, Amen.

                                                    ~  ERC  April 2026  ~

Based on Romans 1:28-32 ESV and 1 Corhinthians 3:16 ESV.

Sing, What Your Are, Speaks So Loud, along with Selah Music.

HAIKU - Sinners To Saints (Romans 1:1-15 ESV)

 He wrote it in a 

letter.  Gentle splashes of

faith encouraged.  Splash!

Called to belong to 

Jesus Christ.  You are His and 

He is yours.  For sure!

He chose us.  We chose

Him.  We belong to Jesus.

Splash!  Chosen, in Christ.

Loved by God.  Called to

be saints.  Saved by grace.  Our stand-

-ing in God's sight.  Splash!

Sinners to saints, by faith

in Jesus Christ.  Now build and

Establish that faith.

Rooted.  Grounded.  Faith

built.  Grown gently or by storm.

Strengthened, wave by wave.

Splash!  Time for fruit.

Faith plus works, produced in time,

Unfaltering walk.

Gentle splashes.  Walk

it.  Talk it.  Write it.  Mail it.

Intentional splash. 

       ~  ERC  April 2026  ~

Based on Romans 1:1-15 ESV.

Sing, By Faith, along with Keith and Kristyn Getty.

Gentle Splashes (Romans 1 ESV)

 

It is exceptionally delightful to receive snail mail.  It is something we can have and hold in our hands but this form of communication is becoming more and more obsolete.  However, when we do receive such correspondance we get a realization that our friend has put extra effort into connecting with us as a deliberate and intentional act of communication.  It is wonderful!

And it costs more in time, energy and money to buy pen, paper, envelop and a stamp, and then to drive or walk to the post office to mail it.  This is in contrast to email, and digital text messaging and the like.

When I read the opening salutation the Apostle Paul wrote to the Romans, all the above flashed through my mind.  He didn't write nonsense either.  It was a continuous cascade of care that came in splashes or pherhaps, waves; the next one and the next one slightly stronger, yet still gentle.  I suppose you could call them, "gentle splashes".

He told them they were,

"called to belong to Jesus Christ" (v.6).

That in itself would be like being picked first for a team to play village baseball, or soccor.  It makes you feel great.  Paul reminds them of which team they belonged - the best team - Jesus Christ's.

You are called too.  We just have to choose to belong as the Roman believers had chosen.

Paul also said they were

 "loved by God"

and were

 "called to be saints".  

These descriptions are endearing.  They remind us of our standing in God's eyes.

We were sinners, saved by grace, and now we can call ourselves "saints".  We are saints, having been saved by grace.  We can stand up straight and declare it because we are

 "loved by God."

Then, this letter didn't arrive to bash the Roman believers on the head.  No.

I picture Paul standing up in a manner to bless them, arms outstretched, like Aaron the High Priest of yore, to bless the Israelites.  Only now I see Paul doing so over these believers, in writing.  And he says,

"Grace to you ..." (vs 7).

He adds,

"and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ" (vs 7).

Grace, getting more than we deserve and the peace of God, which passes all understanding cocooning them.

Then he thanks God for these Roman believers, for their faith.  Their faith was not hid in a corner either.  It was 

"spoken of throughout the whole world" (v. 8 KJV).

This would be like the caliber of Billy Graham's faith.  Even some non-Christians know his name.  Graham's faith and testimony was tried and true.

When was the last time you have heard of such a person?  But I don't think we have to have world-wide reknown in order to call it faith.  Each of us in our own niche, personally and even in our usual environment and with our contacts, it would be a wonderful, Christian resume though to be known for our faith in Jesus Christ.  We'd be like a living letter to all.

Paul was confident in recognizing these believers' faith.  Further to this but not contingent upon, is that he

 "mentioned them always in his prayers" (vs 9 KJV).

He wanted to see them.  He hoped to see them.  He "longed" to see them (see vs 11).  But not just for the fellowship.  He wanted to continue to build them up in their most holy faith.  

It's good if our intent and influence can do this for others.  Are you a mentor for anyone?  It's wonderful to be able to catch up with those we mentor but to make our meetings have extra 'nourishment,' we intentionally do as Paul wished to do for the Roman saints.  He wrote,

"For I long to see you that I may impart unto you some spiritual gift, to the end you may be established" (v11) in ther mutual faith (KJV).

To be "established" and "strengthened" is a necessasry construct.  We may or may not have world reknown faith, but if it falters at a breath of wind breezing by, how strong is that faith?  We will not be able to withstand the typhoons of life.  We need to build our faith to an unshakeable degree and this often comes at the point of adversity.  Will we still cling on to the Lord?

Paul's concern for these saints is then noted by his words.  hHe wanted them established, not just so the world would brag about it.  No, he wanted them to have

 "fruit among them" (vs 13 KJV).

Because, as you see,

"Faith without works is dead" (James 2:14-26).

So we too need all of these:  faith, established and strengthened faith, and fruit.  We need to grow in our Christian living.  Deeper roots, greater nourishment from the Scriptures and congregating with other saints to help build each other up.  Then to produce fruit due to our unfaltering faith in Jesus Christ.

Paul had not been talking off the top of his head either, and these Roman saints knew it.  If we have been reading through the book of Acts before starting in Romans, we will realize this too.  Paul walked the talk.

May we each be so encourage to follow suit.  It is by God's grace we stand.  Let us walk by faith (see 2 Corinthians 5:7).  Let's be a letter written and known among men.   May we each know gentle splashes of care by other believers in Christ too.  May we also show our care of other and write them a letter, signed, sealed, stamped and posted.

So be it, Lord.

                                                   ~  ERC  April 2026  ~

Based on Romans 1:1-15 ESV/KJV.

Sing, We Walk By Faith, along with Marty Haugen.

Go, Therefore ...

 

It had been a pretty euphoric, tragic and triumphant week.  That passion week from Palm Sunday to Good Friday to Easter Sunday.  It unfolded as Jesus rode into Jerusalem riding on a donkey, being arrested and nailed to a cross, dying for mankind's sins' punishment, being buried and on the third day, His resurrection from the dead.

"He is alive!" we exclaimed.

"He is risen, indeed" we continued.

And then this morning I opened my You Version Bible app and the verse of the day struck me in the face.  It shouted out,

"Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and fo the Holy Spirit" (Matthew 28:19 ESV).

Wham!

Did you feel it?

We had all that "passion" and now we have this commission - this "Great Commission". 

Jesus did all that for us.  This is what we can now, as His followers, do for Him.

Go, therefore ....

                                                ~  ERC  April 2026  ~

Based on Matthew 28:19 ESV.

Sing, Lord, You Give the Great Commissison, along with Catholic Christian Hymn/Lyrics.

Grab the Opportunity (Acts 28)

 Paul preached unashamedly and with boldness as if it were his last day on earth (vs 31).  He did so for two whole years' worth, at which time he was actually under house arrest in Rome.

He was hospitable, he still had an audience and he capitalized on each moment.  He shared the gospel of Jesus and His message of love and forgiveness and salvation to all who came to him.

He did not let anything hold him back.  The Scripture says he spoke ...

" ... without hindrance."

We know from some of Paul's letter writing that he did have some physical limitations.  We are not told what else could have been 'a hindrance,' except for the fact he did not have his full freedom.  Whatever, he did not allow himself excuses due to what could have been allowed him.  He was an overcomer.

He is a model example to us.  Let's have the courage to share Jesus as we can, as the opportunities present themselves.

Perhaps at times we can be intentional.  I know of a young sister who created such an opportunity on her birthday.  She invited her Bible study and care group and some pre-believers to her home for an arts and crafts afternoon.  She provided some snacks and they had a wonderful time together. 

As yet, I haven't heard if there was actual spoken testimony but we will leave the results up to the Lord.  Knowing her,  she will not allow an opening to slip through her fingers. 

Whatever comes our way, and whenever it does, let's determine to speak up for the Lord, bringing in the sheaves.

                                                     ~  ERC  April 2026  ~

Based on Acts 28 ESV.

Sing, Wonderful Words of Life, along with Joslin Grove Choral Society.

Chinese Grave Site

 Looking up from our departed loved ones' graves, we could see many others.  Some needing some repair and facelift showed how long someone had been 'gone.'

It reminded me, since it is Easter time, well, a couple weeks past now, that Jesus is the resurrection and the Life.  He told Martha and Mary,

"I am the resurrection and the life.  Whoever believes in me, though he die, yet shall he live, and everyone who lives and believes in Me shall never die.  Do you believe this" (John 11:25-26 ESV)?

And then Jesus raised their brother Lazarus from the dead.

We too can look forward to being resurrected.  After all, Jesus conquered sin, death and the grave.  Those of us who believe in Jesus have this confidence, this assurance.

Whether we are in the grave or still living we have this sure hope;

" ... And the dead in Christ will rise first.  Then we who are alive, who are left, will be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air and so we will always be with the Lord" (1 Thessalonians 4:16-17 ESV).

Praise the Lord, we can look forward to this.  And because He lives we can face tomorrow, whatever it brings.

Let's keep looking up to Him.

                                              ~  ERC  April 2026  ~

Based on John 11:25-27 and 1 Thessalonians 4:16-17 ESV.

Sing, Up From the Grave He Arose, along with Emmanuel Church Eastleigh.

Lord's Day Devotion - Highly Exalted

 

"But You, O LORD, are a shield about me, my glory, and the lifter of my head"        (Psalm 3:3 ESV).

If you observe this verse in the context of the first five verses of this Psalm you'll likely feel how comforting these words are.  The LORD was a shield - a protection - for King David in the midst of a deep betrayal.  

He didn't need to be sitting on his throne in all its authority and glory because he claimed the LORD as his glory.  The LORD was the one to exalt him even in his time of humiliation.  He cried out to the Lord and was answered.  In this confidence he could

 "lay down and sleep ..." (v. 5).

When others have stolen our thunder and deeply put us to shame in front of 'our world' we can claim our Lord's protection and glory too.  It's in Him we can trust.  

When we reflect on what Jesus Himself went through at the hands of human beings, the very ones He had come to save, He too cried out to His heavenly Father God.  Yes, He went through it all, even the death on the cross where He had been "lifted up" in another way.  Yet in the end we are told God highly exalted Him.

"Therefore God has highly exalted Him and bestowed on Him the name that is above every name ..."

What's more, "every knee" will one day or another bow to Him, our exalted King of glory.  Praise Jesus, the One who died for me, the One who died for you, and the One who died for "the whosoever" (see John 3:16).

This Lord's Day, let's remember our Jesus' death and resurrection from the dead, by partaking of the broken bread and drinking from the cup of wine in remembrance of all He has done for us and give Him the glory and honor due His name.

He is now our shield, glory and lifter of our heads despite any terrifying and humiliating situation we may be enduring.  May we each have David's level of confidence in our Lord and even be able to lay down and sleep because He is sustaining us (see Psalm 3:5 ESV).

Father God, thank You for Jesus and for the shield He created for us.  We especially give thanks for the salvation He provided for us through His death and resurrection.  We bow our knees to Jesus' our exalted King of kings.  He is Lord of all.  In Him we put our trust, as He shields us, protecting us from our enemies who shame and put us down and who perhaps, even seek to extinguish our life.  In Him we have everlasting life.  To You be the glory.  In Jesus' name we give our thanks and praise.  Amen.

                                                    ~  ERC  March 2026  ~

Based on Psalm 3:3 ESV.

Sing, To God Be the Glory, along with The Worship Initiative.

Right - ness Ignored (Acts 27 ESV)

 It is so very frustrating not to be listened too, especially if you know you are right.  The other party believes they are right too, but time shows the consequences of who was right.

And in these consequences there are those who are greatly affected, even put into danger because the one in the position of power and authority did not listen to the ones who were actually correct in their assessment.

Instead, the 'right' one was treated as if they were of no account and how could they actually have rightfully assessed a stiuation!?  They are nothing and their opinion is of no consequence and thus cast aside.

This happened to Paul the prisoner as he was sailed towards Italy to stand trial before Caesar.  Paul had gotten his 'right' answer from the Lord.  But the ship's captain and the voyage powers-that-be, did not heed Paul's words.

They were the men of the sea, how could landlubber Paul know the nuances of sailing and weather conditions!  Paul had given his warning but he had not been listened to.

Can you picture Paul sighing and thinking -

 "I'm going to be shipwrecked - again!" 

Sigh ...

He sat and rode out the wave of consequences of the bad decision of others.  This affected 276 persons.  But Paul was attuned to the Lord's guidance and he was able to bring encouragement to all aboard.  They would face the dangers of the deep but ...

" ... not a hair is to perish from the head of any of you" (vs 34 ESV)

he told the passengers.

So they were shipwrecked, jumped overboard, swam, rested on broken off planks or other pieces of ship ...

"and so it was that all were brought safely to land" (vs 44).

God in His mercy  had rescued a whole shipload of passengers despite the folly and pride of "educated" mankind.  He kept Paul alive in order to bring him before the top man of the Roman Empire!

Would you like to be as fine tuned into Holy Sprit's guidance as Paul was?  Even if we are, not everyone will listen to the wisdom given us.  It can be frustrating but our times are in our Lord's hands and He'll bring us safely to shore despite those who do not listen to what's 'right'.

The losses incurred along the way may well be devastating but the responsibility and blame is not on our shoulders if we'd spoken up.  We have at least done our part with the knowledge we'd been given.

We may still have a chance, like Paul did to encourage others in the mess with you.  It's a saving grace.

May our Lord bless you all who do listen to the Holy Spirit and work out how to use the knowledge and wisdom given.  By God's grace we can ride the storms of life - the manmade ones as well as what comes upon us naturally.  Let's have submissive, humble hearts that will listen to Holy Spirit's wisdom.

May God bless each of us.

                                                        ~  ERC  April 2026  ~

Based on Acts 27 ESV.

Sing, Be Still, along with Hillsong, and Holy Spirit, I am Listening, along with Still Waters Bible Reflections.

Good Book - Creative Ministry - By Henri J. M. Nouwen

 There is a quotation from this book which reads,

"A preacher is a man who is willing to give his life for his people" (pg 40).

And then almost in the last pages of conclusion, Henri J. M. Nouwen, the author, writes,

"Radical commitment is to lay down one's life in service of others" (pg 114)..

So what happens when we lose steam and begin to burn out?  Creative Ministry takes a serious look at how a believer, a pastor, minister or even a priest, can be as constant as possible with the Lord's help and with the whole general community of believers.

Nouwen touches on "Beyond Transference of Knowledge" (preaching and teaching); "Beyond Retelling the Story," including problems of folks willing to accept the message vs the messenger - not all listeners will be won over.  There had been little repoire and relationship built up.

To continue, "Beyond Skillful Response" - touching on actual pastoral care, how we see ourselves in order to more effectively be useful to others.  

"Forget self and be more interested in others" 

sort of thing.  Building relationship bridges.  Something akin to JOY; that is,

"Jesus first,

 Others next,

 Yourself last."

Then there's "Beyond Manipulation of Structures."  The preacher makes himself 'visible' to those he serves.  He shares himself instead of strictly staying behind the pulpit with decorum, hiding his real self - no, he get's 'real', sharing his own struggles, life experiences and what was learned through it all.  It's not all about skills and techniques learned but by contemplation and of what had been learned through a correlation of all life's experiences.

Last but not least, is "Beyond the Protective Ritual."  This is a celebration of all that comes at us in life, be it life or death, so to speak.  When we lose our life from self we find life.  Become more available to each other, which involves obedience to God and other people and so on.

A very brief summary and a lot left out ... you gotta read it for yourselves.  Ha, ha.

This book may have been published back in the early 1990's but I've found it a very thoughtful treatise on the spiritual journey for any believer who is in a pastoral position, whether one is 'officially' a pastor, teacher of the Word or  is a lay person.  Vibrant spiritual life will no doubt bring health to the bones and the mind and emotions, as the symbiotic relationship between the professional training as it meets the spiritual in any God-given ministry.  To God be the glory.

                                                     ~ ERC  April 2026 ~

Disclaimer:  This is my honest opinion based on the copyrighted paperback version I read which was published by This Image Books in September 1991.

Additionally, there is a newer looking version of this book with a cover that looks like this ....

Read review on Goodreads.

Book Review - The Lumber Baron's Wife - by Lynn Austin - Publication Date: 14 April 2026

 

I declare this to be a most wonderful, clean work of historical fiction.  It is about the fifith or sixth Lynn Austin novel I've ever read and I'd say her work just keeps getting better and better.

In this narrative there are two time frames.  One is from back in the 1880's while the 'current' one, is well, now.  The setting is in a small logging town in Michigan.  The story describes those logging times, the wealth and danger and what turned out to be a conservationist's worse nightmare.  It also speaks of the care and concern embodied in Dr. John Wagner and his wife Hannah, along with her most unusual friend Kate Abernathy, the lumber baron's wife.  There is added mystery when Kate inexplicably disappears.

In the 'current' time a reader will find David and Ashley, along with other townsfolk and the intrepid Frieda, the 'doll' instigator of restoration of the 150 year old mansion.  Readers are led through the restoration process in a most interesting way with the excitement and satisfaciton of purpose fulfilled.

Austin also tackles the ups and downs of married life, of pro-choice vs pro-life issues; belief in Jesus and trust in God, child loss, physical abuse and the horrendous treatment of women in those days endured.

Overall, I found this story to be quite a comprehensive work but also very down to earth.  There were tears as well as laughter.  My interest was held throughout the pages until the very end.  I have been totally satisfied with this narrative and was sorry to have to say 'good-bye' to all those believable characters.  I will savor this story for some time to come.

Definitely, I give this a 5-Star rating!

                                           ~ Eunice C.,  Reviewer/Blogger ~

                                                          October 2025

Disclaimer:  This is my honest opinion based on the complimentary review copy sent by NetGalley and the publisher.

Read review on Goodreads.

Sharper Sword (Acts 26 ESV

 

As Paul stood before Festus, King Agrippa and Queen Bernice, he gave his defense.  He was confident King Agrippa would understand.  And he did.

It came a bit too close for comfort for him, so he asked Paul,

 " ... in such a short time would you persuade me to be a Christian?"

"Well, yeah, that's kind of the point ...." 

Paul had effective defense.  In the end King Agrippa tells Festus in a private conversation that Paul was innocent and could have been freed if he hadn't appealed to Caesar (vs 32 ESV).

Again and again showed that Paul paid attention to whom he was speaking.  He then tailored his messages accordingly.  Most often the message hit its mark.

When we pay attention, I mean, really pay attention, to our audience, whether it's a room full of hearers or an audience of one, we will be better able to ascertain a more customized - as it were - message.

Yes, all need to hear the gospel but if we know the audience, the general beliefs of it, society of the time's norms for example, or what an individual has experienced and/or is going through at the time, we can be pro-actively intuitive, respond in kind measure, bringing the message of Jesus more accurately and relevantly to the audience.  The Holy Spirit aiding us.

In many ways this is basic pastoral care at its most effective conduit.  It is a skill that can be developed, as one studies God's word, for sure, but who also has knowledge and awareness of the current culture, and beliefs of those with whom one wishes to converse.

The Word of God is,

"...living and active, sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing to the division of soul and of spirit, of joints and of marrow and discerning the thoughts and intentions of the heart" (Hebrews 4:12).

We may not know all that is in the heart of man but God does.  However, I think that when we keep our "sword" as sharp as possible and use God's Word aright, the Holy Spirit will work in the hearts and minds of the hearers, as it did to both governor Festus and King Agrippa.

We are not told if these men ever came to Christ, but they did hear the gospel message.  There would more than likely have been many others in these rooms too: the guards, other dignitaries, servants and so on.  These too heard this messsage of Jesus.  We can never under-estimate the audiences' reach whether intentioned or unintentioned, God has His way of working so all may hear.  

Will you be His mouthpiece?

                                                 ~ ERC  April 2026  ~

Based on Acts 26 ESV.

Sing, God's Word is Like a Hammer (The Book of Books) along with Andrew Remillard).

Standing Before Kings (Acts 25 ESV)

 

To stand before kings and queens as a dream come true, could be a dangerous dream in that reality.  There would be very little romance in it, generally speaking, I feel.  Being on ones' best behavior may not be enough.

Even though the Apostle Paul was told he'd stand before royalty, it was not necessarily something to be desired.  Yet Paul could stand his ground fearlessly and respectfully. He even appealed to Caesar!  It was his Roman citizenship right.  Such appeals appears to have been irrevokable too.

Festus said,

 "To Caesar you have appealed; to Caesar you shall go" (Acts 25:13 ESV).

This was Paul's appeal after a two year hiatus "in the barricks."  Maybe he was frustrated and a bit impatient with the system that kept him bound, only due to false accusations and Festus' wanting to keep in the good books of the Jewish leaders.

To some extent, Paul's appeal feels like he was overworking the wise-serpent- innocent dove ace card.  Yet the Lord uses our will to complete His will, or to tell Him whether we accept or reject His.

Seems a serious matter.  We do well to think and act wisely.  Make much prayer and many requests of the Lord, and be still to discern what He wants for us.  What course of action do you really want?

In the meantime, Festus toys with Paul.  He is in an expansive mood, wishing to show the visiting royalty, King Agrippa and Queen Bernice, a good time.

So you'll see in the next chapter of Acts how that played out.

For us now, if we imagine ourselves in such a position, kneeling before royalty and other men and women of authority, what would our 'speech' be like?  What would our defense be?

May  we be ready to give answer and to listen for Holy Spirit guidance at such a time as that.  May we be fearless and respectful and give God the glory.  

So help us, God.

                                               ~ ERC  March 2026  ~

Based on Acts 25 ESV.

Sing,  Before the Throne of God Above, along with Sovereign Grace Music.

Dry Dock Opportunity (Acts 24:14-16, 21 and 25 ESV)

 

Paul continues his wise serpent-innocent dove defence.  As he unravels his thoughts, they unfold as a witness to those in Roman authority positions, of the grace of God and the message of Jesus.

He doesn't miss or waste an opportunity.  He never knew how long he had to do so, so he made good use of his time even though he did not have his freedom to travel about on missionary journeys as he formerly had done.  You might say that Paul was in 'dry dock'.  That didn't faze him, he spoke to the audience the Lord had provided for him despite his confined circumstances.

As he spoke of the

" resurrection of the dead, both of the just and unjust" (vs 15);

 of 

"righteousnesss, of self-control and the coming judgment" (v 25),

 the listeners, especially Felix the governor, were affected.  Felix became downright uncomfortable and alarmed.

Felix told Paul he'd summon him again at some other opportune time.

As followers of Jesus Christ, even in our day and age, we can seek similar opportunities even if and when we are isolated to small patches of Earth.  I believe we can ask the Lord to present us with them and to give us the words and wisdom to use them, no matter how high and dry we may feel we are.

Father God, lead and guide us, overlay opportunities to speak for You with courage, and wisdom and words, for Your glory and honor.  Even when we are in confined situations, so be it.  I ask in Jesus' name.  Amen.

                                               ~  ERC  March 2026  ~

Based on Acts 24:14-16, 21 and 25 ESV.

Sing, Go Tell It On the Mountain, along with  Gaither Music.

Lord's Day Devotion - This Do (Acts 20)

 

As a matter of course, they were gathered together on the first day of the week.  Some call this day 'Sunday' while others prefer, "The Lord's Day."

And on this Lord's Day, after the believers 

"had broken bread and eaten," 

Paul

 "conversed with them a long while, until day break, and so departed" (vs 11).

Whether this "breaking of bread" together was just a regular meal together, or they were partaking in "Holy Communion," as some like to call it, it is somewhat ambiguous.  However, I like to think they were remembering what Jesus had done for them, fulfilling yet again, one of Jesus' requests to the disciples that night in the upper room before He had been betrayed.

"Do this in remembrance of Me"

 Jesus had asked to them (Luke 22:19 ESV).

The bread represented His body, 

"which is given for you" 

Jesus told them.  Likewise 

"the cup poured out" 

was the new covenant sealed and promised by Jesus' shed blood (vs 20).

Jesus instituted this at the Passover Meal, in the middle of a meal.  So too, with Paul, and Luke with this company of believers at Troas.

The especial mention that it was

 "on the first day of the week" (v. 7) 

also triggers my mind to believe it was for the remembrance.  Either way, we too, can continue

 "to meet and remember;" 

to keep on, keeping on, gathering together - in person, until He comes.

                                                ~  ERC  March 2026  ~

Based on Acts 20:7 & 11 and Luke 22:14-20 ESV.

Sing, Remember Me, along with Mr. PGSalt.

Wise Serpents - Innocent Doves (Acts 23 and Matthew 10:16 ESV)

 

Here's a satisfying verse ...

"Behold, I am sending you out as sheep in the midst of wolves, so be wise as serpants and innocent as doves" (Matthew 10:16 ESV).

Jesus was sending his disciples out to preach and heal but these words carried fair warning of impending persecution.  Being sent in to the midst of wolves sounds ominous, but He did add strategy for navigating through the pack.  They could be "wise as serpents" - #1, and second, innocent as doves."

A few days ago I killed a serpent that had had the audacity to slither over my feet in my kitchen.  Wriggling and wily serpents give me the shivers!

Then for a couple of nights in a row, I dreamt of colorful serpents.  NOT nice!

Serpents seem to be coming at me from all angles.  My husband was watching a documentary of like the top ten (or so - can't exactly recall) places in the world where human beings absolutely cannot live, or they live with exceedingly difficult existences and hard won survival due to extreme weather to weather.

One of those places named was Snake Island, off the coast of Brazil.  It said that there was one highly venomous golden lancehead viper per one square meter in some parts of the 430,000 square meter island.

There is a coast guard, guarding the island 24/7 for the protection of stupid people (my term) who'd think they were so invicible they could "visit" the island unscathed.  (Well, these snakes are also on the endangered species list thus another plausible reason for the guarding.)

The golden lanceheads are beautiful creatures but, they are still serpents.  Deadly ones, yet in order to catch their prey they have to be wise. They have to be shrewd.  However, they are neither harmless nor innocent.  Did you know they curl up on a branch, for instance, and let their tail hang down and wiggle it to deceive birds that there's a nice juicy worm to be had?  Once lured, the bird ..., well, you get the picture.  It was definitely a time not to be early.

Conversely, the small, quick tripping motion of a dove's walk with its bobbing head as it goes along, often cooing, appears to be the epitome of innocence and harmlessness.  We often see them around and I think they are rather sweet and unassuming birds.

So saying, let's find what's happening with Paul in regards to serpents and innocent doves.  He's been rescued from the murderous crowds who so desired to beat him, quite possibly, to death.  The Roman soldiers were ordered to get him into the barracks for safety reasons, but also so he could be more closely examined as to why the people were all stirred up.

The next day he was brought before the high priest Ananias and others of the religious Jewish leaders while the Roman  tribunal looked on.  This is where Paul, who could read a crowd apparently, used the wise serpent-innocent dove tactic.

Paul ascertained that some of the religious rulers were of the Sadducees' persuasion and some were of the Pharisees'.  The former did not believe in resurrection of the dead, angels or of spirits while the latter did.

It seems like Paul was attempting to divide and conquer with his shrewd remarks, declaring himself to be a Pharisee and stating his belief in those three basic areas.  He got his desired effect.

The hostile accusers became divided and ...

 " ... the dissension became violent, the tribune, afraid that Paul would be torn to pieces by them, commanded the soldiers to go down and take him away from among them by force and bring him into the barracks" (v. 10 ESV).

Paul's "innocent shrewdness" is somewhat amusing but he still did not have his freedom.  Thankfully, he once again escaped being "torn to pieces".  God wasn't finished with him yet.

This was serious business.  The heading of the Scriputre section from which I have taken the Matthew 10:16 verse in the YouVersion ESV, reads,

 "Persecution Will Come."  

If you read from verse 16 through 20, you'll see what Jesus taught and what Paul had been experiencing as recorded by Luke in the Book of Acts.

Persecution can come in many forms but we can have some preparedness and readiness by studying these verses that come straight from our Lord's mouth.  And as we listen for Holy Spirit's guidance about being as wise as serpents and innocent as doves, pray for the correct Christlike way to speak and act.  Then watch out for the wolves.

Father God, thank You for Your many provisions for us, especially in view of persecution of Your people.  The advice and instruction Jesus gave to the disciples is helpful.  Help us to use it aright and in whatever wise shrewdness we use, it will indeed be harmless and innocent.  May Your Holy Spirit lead and guide us, along with Your word, all the days of our lives, which You have numbered.  We thank You in Jesus' name.  Amen.

                                                   ~  ERC  March 2026  ~

Based on Acts 23 and Matthew 10:16 ESV.

Sing, A Mighty Fortress is Our God, along with Sovereign Grace Music.