Lord's Day Devotion - Bruised and Crushed

 "The God of peace will soon crush Satan under your feet.  The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you" (Romans 16 :20 ESV).

There are two opposing forces at work here.  But the one who is Almighty God is the one who has the final say and action.  He is the One who crushes Satan.  He is the One of grace.  He is the One who is with you - Jesus Christ our Lord.

If we hearken back to the epic world catastrophe, when Adam and Eve sinned and God caught them in the aftermath, then we know He pronounced judgement.  This is what He told the serpent...

"I will put enmity between you and the woman, and between your offspring and her offspring; he will bruise your head, and you will bruise his heel" (Genesis 3:15 ESV).

And it has been thus ever since.  There have been incidents of this along the way, since the Bible's first prediction of a Savior -

 "the offspring will bruise Satan's head" (Genesis 3:15).

Even though it appears Satan gets the upper hand, and bruises the offspring of the woman's heel, the offspring will crush the serpent's head.  This plays out in the story of Jael, Deborah, Barak and Sisera (see Judges 4 & 5).

Israel had been cruelly oppressed by the Caananite king for about 20 years.  King Jabin and Commander Sisera were a fearsome twosome of leaders, ones who sound like they showed little to no mercy.

Israel, led by Deborah and Barak, fought mightily that day, routing all the 900 iron chariots and all King Jabin's army.  But Sisera escaped alone and fled on foot for something like 10-12 kms.

He was a totally exhausted man but eventually found Jael and her tent.  She, despite her Kenite clan branch being at peace with her huband Heber's house and the King of Hazor, Jael took up her everyday tools - a tent peg and a mallot, and did a very courageous thing.

Having lured and lulled Sisera to sleep, she 'crushed' the head of Sisera as he slept.  Israel, God's chosen people, were liberated that day by a distant relative of Moses.  This, to me, is a parallel to Satan's head being crushed under the bruised heel of the offspring.

Some similar incidents happen even today.  Children come to Sunday School and learn of Jesus and even accept Him as Savior of their lives.  Their lives change, as young as they may be, for the better.  It is noticed at home.  A home that is a non-Christian home.  The children speak too much about Jesus.  This disrupts and upsets the parents who follow other gods.  God and Satan are at enmity again.

These are prototypes of the real thing.  That is, not only Jesus' death where His heel was bruised, but also His resurrectin, where He bruised Satan's head.  This is where Jesus' being alive showed He'd conquered sin, death and Hell.  The serpent, the form Satan took, or its body Satan used, definitely was defeated.

And in a day to come, the final sentence upon Satan will be executed.  Read this ...

" ... and the devil who had deceived them was thrown into the lake of fire and sulphur where the beast and false prophet were, and they will be tormented day and night forever and ever" (Revelation 20:10 ESV).

Satan's final everlasting crushing doom is comng.  Followers of Jesus Christ will triumphantly enter Heaven to be with Him forever and ever.  This day is coming by and by.  This is the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ.  This grace is with us now to carry us through our earthly days, as we fight the inevitable spiritual warfare, until Jesus comes.  Perhaps, today.

We praise You Father God, for all You have done for us through Your Son Jesus Christ.  You are so Almighty and All Knowing.  Even from the beginning of time You had it all mapped out.  The bruising and crushing and the salvation plan.  We cannot thank You enough.

And as we reach for the broken bread and drink of the cup of wine, symbols of that epic day, God's love brought us salvation through Jesus' death and resurrection, we remember all You've done for us in crushing Satan and bringing us redemption through Jesus.

In Jesus' most precious name we give You our praise and heartfelt thanks.  Amen.

                                                   ~  ERC  May 2026  ~

Based on Romans 16:20; Genesis 3:15;  and  Revelation 20:10 ESV.

Sing, When I Survey the Wondrous Cross, along with Keith and Kristyn Getty.

Unbridled Knowledge (1 Corinthians 8: 3specially vs 1 ESV)

 Grackles and pigeons and likely other fine feathered friends, puff themselves up when they wish to attract a mate with whom to have a courtship and family.  They want to look bigger, more impressive and maybe shriek and coo respectively to gain the female's favor.  That is their instinctive knowledge.

People like to gain knowledge and that can be a good thing.  However, if one is not humble, one can become 'puffed up' proud with what they know, letting their whole world know about it all, be it actually little or much.

Paul,  in 1 Corinthians 8 says, 

"knowledge puffs up, but love builds up" (vs 1).  

If a person is so busy strutting their stuff, it leaves little to no room for others to say their pieces.  People who actually really know.  This lack of interest in others and what they have to say can be hurtful to those folks who've been cut off.

In this case, it's regarding eating food offered to idols.  Puffed up people may say, "just eat it" but that could marr another's conscience and could even cause another brother or sister to stumble.  It does not show loving care or consideration for another believer's conscience and situation.

Loving others with God's unconditional caring love, is the priority in God's book.  This is the knowledge we need to know and put into action - humbly.

Lord, may we wield our knowledge appropriatedly, encapsulated with Your love.  Help us to avoid unbridled knowledge and pride.  This we ask in Your name.  Amen.

                                                 ~  ERC  May  2026  ~

Based on 1 Corinthians 8: especially vs 1 ESV.

Sing, Will You Be An Overcomer, along with Musikahan Corner.                                    

Gathered Together

 

"And when they had prayed, the place in which they were gathered together was shaken, and they were filled with the Holy Spirit and continued to speak the word of God with boldness" (Acts 4:31 ESV).

The people of God were prayng.  They were in one place, "gathered together".  Then something extra-ordinary happened.  Things got shaken up.  Secondly, they were filled with the Holy Spirit.  In turn, they spoke the word of God - not with frivolity, but the "Word of God" in sincerity and truth.  And that was done with boldness.

They had been persecuted.  Hateful actions of others trying to put them down, to quiet them.

But the Lord intervened when they'd "gathered together".  It seems to me they were in a state of unity.  Unity of Spirit, of one and the same mind.  And they were praying.

They prayed about others who'd once been persecuted but who'd continued to stand boldly and speak God's Word.  They prayed and asked the Lord to,

" ... look upon their threats and grant to Your servants to continue to speak Your word with all boldness" (vs 29).

All this too while God would do His part of stretching out His hand healing and performing signs and wonders in Jesus' holy name (see vs 29 & 30 ESV).

The Holy Spirit then came, shaking the place of prayer and those praying, 

" ... were  filled with the Holy Spirit" (vs 31).

For what purpose?  Was it to babble in unknown tongues?  Was it to fall backward, senseless?

No.  It was for boldness, boldness to speak the Word of God and continue to speak God's truth despite persecution.

It reminds me of the sister in the news who publically quoted some Bible verses, or at least wrote them in a pamphlet for public reading.  Her chosen verses came from the first chapter of Romans, if I'm not wrong.  In these recent times of the PRIDE movement, someone lashed out against her faithful words, which are actually God's Words.

She had to defend herself and give her reasons for speaking them with boldness.  Oh, I just need to stop here and pray for her that she will continue to have courage and boldness to continue to speak God's Word faithfully.  Even though this occured a few years ago, many may still have this sort of threat hanging over their heads.

Lord, You know that doctor from Helsinki who was arrested and accused of "hate speech".  Give her the right words and wisdom to speak the Word of God more boldly.  Work on her behalf.  Thank You for the opportunities even those "warmongers" against "free speech" give her to highlight Your Word more succinctly, in plain sight for this decadent world.  May she stand her ground and know Your presence beside her.

Indeed, Lord, You will have the last word in the end.  All praise and glory belong to You.  In Your name, Lord Jesus, we pray.  Amen.

                                              ~  ERC  May  2026  ~

Based on Acts 4:23-31, especially vs 31 ESV.

Sing, Unashamed, along with Matthew West.

Reference:

Dr. Paivi Rasanen.

Book Review - Sharks Preschool Activity Book - By Dr. Chelsea Black - Publication Date: 26 May 2026

 This shark experience will definitely intrique many young children, I believe.  Even as an adult I found it of interest and have learned a thing or two about these wonderful creatures of the oceans.

There are great pictures with educational facets such as learning the English language alphabet and numbers; how to trace and write them; learning the different colors as well as the many types of sharks.  There are short blurbs about each type of shark and a showing of their habitat.  In my opinion, this has great potential for a fascinating and integrated learning encounter for any little ones' inquisitive mind.

This activity book earns a 5-Star rating from me.

                                             ~ Eunice C.,  Reviewer/Blogger  ~

                                                          February  2026

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

Read review on Goodreads.

Dot. Line. Arrow. (1 Corinthians 6:11, 12, 19 ESV)

 Think of a time line that begins with a well defined 'dot'.  The line extends straight out to the right from that dot.  The end of the drawn line, ends with an arrow.  Then, along the line increments are demarcated.  Some of the increments are wider apart than others; others represent shorter spaces of time.

The dot establishes the point in time when a person accepted Jesus Christ as Savior of their lives.  They have been born again and become a new creation in Christ (See 2 Corinthians 5:17).

As Paul puts it, the person has been,

" ... washed, ...  sanctified ... justified in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ and by the Spirit of our God" (1 Corinthians 6:11 ESV).

The increments circumscribe growth spurts in Christ.  Sometimes it takes longer than others to learn lessons and the new Christlike life.  Yes, our coming to Christ 'sanctified' us and saved us; that is, set us apart from our old life and put us in a new room, so to speak.

If you've ever watched sheep shearers at work, you'll see that once a sheep has been shorn, they're moved to a different pen.  They are 'set apart' from those yet to be 'sanctified,' that is, shorn.

This analogy falls short no doubt but hopefully gives a small picture of the process.  But once sanctified by our salvation, there is further sanctification we ourselves must personally work on.  NOT to earn salvation, but to become more like Christ in all our ways.  Many call this "progressive sanctification".

As a snake sheds its skin as it grows, and dons a new skin, so the believer in Jesus Christ must grow.  The old habits of the old nature need to be shed.  New, godly habits need to be donned.  Again, each person does this at various times and lengths of time.  Thus the 'growth in Christ increments' along the timeline vary in length.

We also keep in mind that we do not own ourselves.  We have been 

"bought with a price" (v. 20) 

by God through Jesus Christ's shed blood.  Our new life in Christ did not come cheaply.  Therefore, we have the responsibility to show our faith by our actions (See James 2:18-20).

In this first letter to the Corinthians, Paul pointed out the gross sin of incest that was among them (See 1 Corinthians 5:1-2).  The unrepentant man had to be removed from among them for a season of ...

" ... destruction of the flesh, so that his spirit may be saved in the day of the Lord'                (1 Corinthians 5:5 ESV).

This man had allowed himself to be dominated by his lust for one he should not have.  But he did learn his lesson.  By the time we read Paul's second letter to the Corinthians, the other believers' in the assembly had overdone the "destruction".  Paul had to tell them the man had repented, God had forgiven him, they needed to also forgive him and bring the brother back into the congregation and fellowship of believers (See 2 Corinthians 2:5-11).

Our bodies are the ...

" ... temple of the Holy Spirit within [us], whom [we] have from God.  [We} are not our     own ..." (1 Corinthians 6:19 ESV).

God wants us to be holy as He is holy (See Leviticus 11:44).  As we live consciously along the timeline of progressive sanctificaiton, we do just that.  In this way we can ...

"glorify God in [our] bodies" (1 Corinthians 6:20 ESV).

First Peter 1:15-16 further shows us this injunction.

" ... but as He who called you is holy, you also be holy in all your conduct ..."

Let's all continue to move towards holiness.  The timeline ends with an arrow that never ends until we are called home to be with the Lord forevermore.  Perhaps, today...

                                              ~  ERC  May 2026  ~

Based on 1 Corinthians 6: especially vs 11, 12 and 19 ESV.

Prayfully sing, Search Me O God, along with Providence.

Meme Photo Credits:  Dan Froese.

Still Your Hearts

 

When I hear the song Like A River Glorious, something in me shifts.  It reverbrates into my inner core.  Very comforting and uplifting.

It's one of those lovely old pieces you rarely hear anymore.  The reassuring words, despite trials and tribulations of life, we can still,

"Stay our hearts upon Jehovah".  

In so doing we will find perfect peace and rest.

Do have a listen.  Close your eyes.  Listen.  Still your hearts.

Be blessed.

                                                  ~  ERC  May 2026  ~

Inspired by, Like a River Glorious.  Sing it along with Northside Baptist Church, Charleston, SC.  Or slightly more lively, try with Squirrel.

Keep Transforming (1 Corinthians 5:1, 8, 12 ESV)

 

Another conversation on another day touched on a believer who'd been quite a wild woman before she'd come to Christ.  There were some who'd not known of, nor seen, her transformation that'd happened since her salvation.  They'd only known her at her present state.  There were still things that needed to be worked on that seemed very glaring and offensive.

True, she, and all the rest of us, for that matter, need continual renewal of our minds.  We need that continual progressive sanctification.

We are exhorted,

"Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect" (Romans 12:2 ESV).

This is what every follower of Jesus Christ needs, whether they have been recently born again, or they've been saved for decades.  It's always an ongoing project we need to work on with Holy Spirit's help, intervention, conviction and guidance.

Old ways have to go, the new ways moving towards Christlikeness need to be worked on, so we can do well and be acceptable to God.

With renewed minds we can then eat of the Lord's supper with the,

" ... unleavened bread of sincerity and truth" (1 Corinthians 5:8 ESV).

The Corinthian believers needed to address certain issues that had not yet been relinquished among them.  Things from their old ways.  Here in chapter 5 and verse 1, Paul blatantly names it, because it was so perverse that not even ...

 " ... pagans would tolerate it" (vs 1).  

That is, the man who had his father's wife.  This is incest.  This was a form of sexual immorality.  They were told to remove this man from among them.

So whether there are gross sins, like this, or slander or lying and so on, all these are from our old ways.  The way before we have come to Christ.  When we accept Jesus Christ as Savior we become a new creation in Christ and we need to transform by the renewal of our minds.  Then our actions will follow suit.

We need to look within ourselves, and examine and see if there be any wicked ways in ourselves and then address them humbly and prayerfully before the Lord.  Follow that with repentance, confession to the Lord and a putting off of the old way and a putting on of the new.

Then have mercy and grace with the "wild woman," or man, who is still in the process of transforming too.  By God's grace we can give Him glory with renewed lives.

Amen. So be it, Lord.

                                                   ~  ERC  May  2026  ~

Based on 1 Corinthians 5:1, 8, 17 ESV.

Sing, The Power of Your Love, along with Hillsong.

Entreat, Not Retreat (Slander) (1 Corinthians 4:13 ESV)

 " ... When slandered, we entreat.  We have become and are still, like the scum of the world, the refuse of all things" (1 Corinthians 4:13 ESV).

Ironically, my husband and I were speaking with a friend the other day about people who slander others.  How bad it feels when we have to listen to someone who is slandering another, and how the listeners want to back off but because they are not sure what to do, they retreat from the person.

If you do or say something about it, then you may well be the next 'victim' of the person's slanderous vendetta.  So what can be done when our ears are assaulted by slander?

Well, this morning, what do you know but I stumbled upon 1 Corinthians 4:13. (ESV),

" ...when slandered, we entreat ..." Paul said. 

 The 'we' being the apostles, plus Paul.  They were all in the dog house or even the dirty dungeon of 'Christians', yes, 'Christians' contempt.  It was like they were the

 "scum of the world" (vs 13).

Can you imagine!?  The great apostles who had been Jesus' originally chosen 12 and who'd become apostles (minus Judas Iscariot).  They had become 'scum' in the minds of the Corinthians!  They were being slandered!

Paul's response though, was not to rage and attack back.  It was not to retreat either, rather to 'entreat'.

Entreat was to answer kindly, to beg or beseech the attacker.  Does that put you in mind of Proverbs 15:1 (KJV)?

"A soft answer turneth away wrath.  But grievous words stir up anger."

But do we dare confront the slanderer?  If the person claims to be a follower of Jesus Christ, they'll need to be gently, yet firmly confronted.  The how and when would need the Lord's intervention and sincerity of heart on the confronter's part, I should think.  Much prayer before action.  

If you search the Scriptures you'll find ample mention of slander (or gossip).

"Do not spread false reports"

is in Exodus (23).  That's very early on in the Bible.

The book of Proverbs has several references linked to slander.  Slander can separate close friends (see 16:28).  And in Proverbs 10;18 NLT we read,

"Hiding hatred makes you a liar; slandering others makes you a fool."

Ephesians 4:31 commands,

"Get rid of all ... slander, along with every form of malice" (ESV).

We do well to remember we will have to give account of all our empty words in the day of judgement (see Matthew 12:36).

As believers in Jesus Christ, we need to examine ourselves, watch our thoughts and our words.  Are we spewing slander?  Repent and confess it to the Lord (see 1 John 1:9).

I read a book by Deborah Smith Pegues about taming our tongues.  It was very helpful.  There's one thing she would say when another person began to speak slander or gossip to her.  She'd say,

"Tongue fast!" 

and point to her tongue.  This would tell the slanderer that she did NOT, want to hear the slander.

I can imagine that would have stopped some in their tracks.  The speaker may even have been offended, but they would have gotten the point - hopefully.  It could be worth a try the next time you hear someone spout slander.

In this way you could entreat the person instead of retreating from, especially if that person claims to know and love Christ.  By Holy Spirit's empowerment, let us speak gracious and kind words about and to others, and cut off that which attacks and endangers another's character and reputation.  

Be honest and seek the Lord's revelations of your own attitudes and words.  Ask Him to show you.  Then put into action to do as He reveals the truth of unChristlike behavior, to rectify your habits to become more pleasing in His sight.  Let's be transformed through progressive sanctification or our souls.  

May God get the glory in our thoughts, minds, hearts and actions.

                                                ~  ERC  May 2026  ~

Based on 1 Corinthians 4:13  ESV.

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

Further related links to check out regarding slander ...

Slanderous Words (TT)

Morning Musings - Slanderous Slander

Tongue Fast (TT)

Lord's Day Devotion - Shame - Free

 "For I am not ashamed of the gospel, for it is the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes, to the Jew first and also to the Greek" (Romans 1:16 ESV)

The gospel is there, available, ready and waiting for everyone.  Those who believe, receive. It is not just for one group of people either.  No one needs to work for it.  There is power in the gospel.  There is no need to be ashamed of the gospel; Paul, the writer of this verse, was not.

Some people do hide their faith in Jesus.  It's safer for them.  We call these people secret Christians.  But the power of the gospel cannot be hidden in our lives.  The truth will come out in our actions and even in our speech.  Eventually, our salvation will be known, similarly as to how Peter's manner of speech gave him away that he was a friend of Jesus' (see Matthew 26:73).

This is different than being ashamed of the gospel.  It means you have the faith or appear to certain people as having it but don't want certain groups of people, perhaps schoolmates, or other employees where you work.  Still, the truth may be eventually revealed.  Light cannot be hid in the dark.

Fear of being ridiculed and/or receiving mild persecution may keep us trapped in shame and fear.  But Jesus paid the cost of the gospel of salvation, received through faith and belief in His work on the cross.

Being trapped in the fear and shame of the gospel is crippling and stunts our spiritual growth and our testimony to others.  Let's pray and ask the Lord to free us from such fear so we have the boldness and courage to proclaim the gospel of Jesus Christ from rooftops.

This Lord's Day, as we remember Jesus in His death and resurrection, let's remember what it cost Him to gain our salvation for us.  Also, remember there is power from God that can enable us to shed our fear of man, and replace it with the fear of God and open life in Christ.

As we remember, reach for and partake of the broken bread and drink from the cup of wine, those symbols representing His sacrifice.  He openly hung on a shameful cross to bear our shame and set us free from it.

Adam and Eve's naked shame was covered with an attempted fig leaf covering. However, it was not enough and they still felt shame, as they should have.   In contrast, Jesus covers our shame by the power of His blood, death and resurrection.  Know this power and be set free.

Lord Jesus, once again we cannot thank You enough for going through all the suffering and sacrifice of the cross to buy our pardon and offer the gift of salvation.  Thank You for this power of God now in us, and working through us.  May we have the courage and boldness to openly declair Your name and live for You - shame free.  I ask in Your name Lord Jesus, amen.

                                                      ~  ERC  May 2026  ~

Based on Romans 1:16 ESV.

Sing, His Robes For Mine, along with Hymns of Grace 2021.

God's Fellow Workers (1 Corinthians 3: especially vs 6-9 ESV)

 

When we have the mind of Christ and understand that His mind is the top mind that can never ever be surpassed by any mere human being, we begin to have some wisdom.

What's more, we will know that when and if we plant and water something it is only God who causes it to grow.

I got some clippings from a friend a couple of weeks ago.  I planted them and watered them and they did grow.  They especially liked being put out in the rain to let God water them.  He really encouraged them to grow well.

So the planter person could not boast of that growth.  We realize that ...

" ... neither he who plants nor he who waters is anything, but only God who gives growth" (1 Corinthians 3:6 ESV).

So let's apply this to doing God's work.  We may have a smaller or a bigger part in it but we need to let God do His part too.  He's the one to supply the growth.  We cannot boast or take sides with the one who plants nor the one who waters.  We can only boast in God and His Son, Jesus Christ.

This is something the apostle Paul addressed with the Corinthians who had been taking sides with their favorite leader, whether Apollos, Paul or Cephas, respectively causing divisions and quarrels.

We do well to realize that they, and we in our day, are

 "God's fellow workers ... [His] field and [His] building" (vs. 9).  

Ownership belongs to Him.  Draw near to Him and so maintain unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace.

We belong to Christ and not to any one particular leader.  Boast in Jesus alone.

                                              ~  ERC  May 2026  ~

Based on 1 Corinthians 3: especially vs 6 & 9 ESV.

Sing, How Deep the Father's Love For Us, along with Keith and Kristyn Getty.

Good and Helpful Answers (1 Corhinthians 2: especially vs 14-16 ESV)

 

We have the mind of Christ because we have His Holy Spirit indwelling us.  That is, if you are a follower of Jesus Christ, He indwells.  This does not necessarily mean we fully understand our Lord's mind.

"For who has understood the mind of the Lord so as to instruct Him"                              (1 Corinthians 2:16 ESV).

A natural person cannot, a spiritual one, may, that's why obedience to HIS instructions are imperative.  He knows the full picture, we only partially know and understand.

We can get wisdom, knowledge and understanding imparted through the Holy Spirit.  There is need then to be still and listen for His guidance and direction.

Some things, I'd say, we'll never fully know or understand in our life time.  God is so BIG and no one can fathom His mind.  But when we go to be with Him, I believe either it won't matter so much or He'll give us the full scope when we meet Him.

So, the element of trust in Him comes in here.  Trust that He will always know what's best for us and in that trust we can rest, abide and obey Him.

The other day I told a friend I wanted to pick her brain for a specific reason.  She was willing and gave me some helpful answers.

I think that because we have found a Friend in Jesus, that we can 'pick His brain' for some specific reasons too.  We may not always get the exact answer we were looking for but there will be helpful direction.  His mind is the most brilliant of all - they will be good and helpful answers. 

 I trust Him.

                                             ~  ERC  May 2026  ~

Based on 1 Corinthians 2: especially vs 14-16 ESV.

Sing, Trust and Obey, along with The Celebration Choir.

Benedictions that Warm the Heart (Hebrews 13:20 & 21)

 

Do you like benedictions?  I do.  They are so caring.  My church began adding them after the closing prayers.  I always feel blessed by them and leave with a happy smile on my face and a warm heart within.

Aaron, the first High Priest of God over Israel, used to say a good night benediction over the nation.  He'd raise his arms and bless them saying,

"The LORD bless you and keep you; the LORD make His face to shine upon you and be gracious to you; the LORD lift up His countenance upon you and give you peace ..." (Numbers 6:22-26 ESV).

It was said nightly like a bedtime prayer.  Night-night, tuck you in, sleep well, of course, but it was so much more.  By so doing, God told Moses that Aaron would be putting His ...

" ... name upon the people of Israel, and I [He, God] will bless them"                  (Numbers 6:27 ESV).

The writer of Hebrews wanted to bless the Hebrews too.  It would resignate, with them deeply because of the High Priests' nightly benediction pronounced over them.  This is something that even though they'd become Christian Hebrews, they could understand and appreciate it and be heart-warmed.

But this benediction also had an exhortation imbedded in it.  We don't just have the privelege of being blessed, we have responsibility too - a two-sided coin portfolio.  Each follower of Jesus Christ has been blessed with this benediction too.

Peace is pronounced over us in the name of the God of peace but part of the blessing stems from being equipped ...

 " ... with everything good that [we] may do His will, working in us that which is pleasing in His sight, through Jesus Christ ..." (Hebrews 13:20-21 ESV).

So, as we go forth we may experience the happy smile and warm heart but we need to be equipped and use what God has given us through our faith in Jesus Christ for the good and benefit of the congregation of believers and beyond, and do His will, thus giving all glory and honor to Him forever and ever.  

                  GOD BLESS YOU!

                                                     ~  ERC  May 2026  ~

Based on Hebrews 13:20 & 21, Numbers 6:22-27 ESV.

Sing, A Mother's Prayer (Numbers 6 :22-27) Cry Out Worship.  Also, Numbers 6:22-27 - The Bible Song.

Boast In Jesus (1 Corinthians 1:1 KJV and especially vs 10 & 17 ESV.

 Have you ever published something?  Perhaps a magazine or newspaper article, or a book?  Was it self-published or had the writings gone through a publishing house?  Some people do self-publish books.

But as we begin to read 1 Corinthians chapter 1, (and other of Pauls' opening lines of letters he wrote) we see he didn't exactly "self- publish" his letter.  His authority came from God.  He greeted them, 

"Paul, called to be an apostle of Jesus Christ through the will of God and Sosthenes our brother ..." (1 Corinthians 1:1 KJV).

He establishes his right and authority to "speak" to his Corinthian audience by telling them, #1, he was called to be an apostle by Jesus Christ Himself, and #2, through the will of God.  It's important to note this especially.  You'll see why as we move through the letter.

God and Jesus Christ were his witnesses, so to speak, and the One who ordained him.  Therefore, he writes in confidence and expectation that the Corinthians will heed his words of wisdom.  He is not just spouting off offhand.

There forever being enmity between God and Satan, Satan can't leave well enough alone.  The Corinthian church had been happily established but now division came.  Satan was using the 'divide and conquer' method.

Paul had to pull them back, reminding them of their need to all agree in the name of their Lord Jesus Christ (vs 10).  They should not have divisions among them and that they should be united in the same mind and the same judgment (vs 10).

The leader among them to follow, was and should be, their same mind, Christ, not Paul, not Apollos and not Cephas.

Very likely these three were stalwart and godly men of God.  But they were human beings, not God.  They needed to make and maintain Christ as central to their service and worship.  Otherwise, Paul stated his fear that,

"...the cross of Christ be emptied of its power" (vs 17 ESV).

Not that the cross and the work Jesus had done upon it would in and of itself be diminished but rather that the people would tarnish His name and word and so bring dishonor upon Jesus' work upon the cross and upon Jesus Himself and even upon the followers of Jesus Christ, for that matter, who were not showing too much brotherly love and had marred the unity of the Spirit.

Self-centeredness leads to inflated ego and boasting in self.  But Christ-centeredness leads to boasting in Jesus Christ and all He has done for us.  It leads to living for Him and being the light and salt in the world.  It leads to bringing others to Christ.  And it leads to unity in Christ and His Holy Spirit thereby resisting the devil so he would flee from them.  Then we'd have something to write about, and even publish.

                                                      ~  ERC  May 2026  ~

Based on 1 Corinthians 1:1 KJV and vs 10 & 17 ESV especially.

Sing, All My Boast Is In Jesus, along with Keith and Kristyn Getty.

HAIKU - Many Sparrows

 God's eye is on the sparrows.  He sees when they fall.  Know that His eye is also on you.  He sees and knows when you stumble and fall.  He knows when you are in trouble, alone and in despair.  he knows, He loves, He cares.  Let Him comfort you, hold you fast for He is a constant faithful friend who cares for you and me. 

"For you are of more value than many sparrows" (Matthew 10:21-31 ESV).

Sparrows flutter and

flit, "Chirp, Chirp," hop, hop in the trees,

and upon the ground.

Foraging; peck, hop,

peck, hop, hop for seeds, flit

flutter, dust-bath clean.

Oops, a sparrow fell

out of the tree.  Sits stunned, still.

Drooping, dragging wing.

Poor dear sparrow, God

saw it.  Values it.  He made

it.  Fear not.  You see?

Do you see?  You are

worth more than many sparrows,

to God.  His eyes see.

                      ~ERC  May 2026  ~

Based on Matthew 10:29-31 ESV.

Sing, His Eye Is On The Sparrow, along with Ethel Waters.

Validates and Vindicates (Romans 16 ESV)

 

It was quite the exercise to circle the park six times in one go.  After calculation it added up to only 4.8 km!  "Groan!" I said as I staggerd, half faintingly to the car to drive home.  That's not much compared to some people who can even jog, yes, that's right, jog, running circles around me ... zoom!  They flash by, again.

It was also quite the exercise to read my way through the letter to the Romans.  It's taken more than a month to accomplish.  I staggered through it, but persevered and found many nuggets of God's Word to enjoy.  Here I am at last, at the farewell salutations.

It is a relief to have something 'easier' and joyful to read.  All the greetings to this person and that, and even Paul's commendation of sisters Phoebe and Prisca, and brother Aquila, and many others named there.  I chuckle as Paul adds,

" ... but all the churches of the Gentiles give thanks as well" (vs 4).

Why'd he have to addend that?  If you'd read through the whole book of Romans you understand the humor and irony in that statement, he facetiousness of it.  There is also the point that Paul was making throughout.

He was the 'minister' to the Gentiles and he validates and vindicates them.  He has also exhorted both Gentiles and Jews in the Roman assembly of believers, reminding them of their unity in Christ and all it had entailed.

Anyway, It amused me to see his choice of words.  And in the end they were to

 "greet one another with a holy kiss" (v. 16).  

In addition to that,  to show further solidarity Paul appended,

"All the churches of Christ greet you ..." (vs 16 ESV).

As Paul ends his letter, so I end this series of commentary upon the letter to the Romans, saying to my readers ...

" ... to the only wise God be glory forevermore through Jesus Christ.  Amen"                  (Roman 16:27 ESV).

All glory be to God.

                                                         ~  ERC  May 2026  ~

Based on Romans 16 ESV.

Sing, Glory to God on High, along with Isle of Man Methodist Church.

Lord's Day Devotion - Marks of the Lord Jesus

 Do you have any scars on your body?  Any marks that won't fade all the days of your life?

Maybe you got them in childhoood from going down a slide headfirst and you knocked your head on the end and had to get stitches in your forehead.  Or maybe you got cut on barbed wire or from a knife accident or surgery scars.

There are so many ways marks can appear on our bodies.  Cuts, scrapes, tatoos and the like mark our bodies.  Some of these show ownership.  Slaves may have been branded with hot irons and/or specific tatoos.

For instance, in the Old Testament (OT) times, after six years of service, a servant could choose to be legally bound to a master, forever.  The master would bore his ear through with an aul.

" ... and he would serve him forever" (Exodus 21:6 ESV).

A female servant could do the same (see Deuteronomy 15:17).  These were marks of loyalty, commitment and ownership.

During World War II, those interned in Hitler's concentration camps had prisoner numbers tatooed upon their upper left chest or the outer side of the left forearm.  These marks were marks of contempt and dehumanization.

The Apostle Paul remarks in Galatians that he bore in his body ...

" ...the marks of Jesus" (Galations 6:17 ESV).

When we read through the book of Acts, we discover many of Paul's hardships and persecution at the hands of men who hated the name of Jesus whom he preached.  He'd been whipped, and stoned and left for dead, to name a couple off hand.  He used these marks as proof of the authority he had in Christ to be teaching and preaching what he did.  In fact, to even be writing as he was.

Most importantly, we come to our own Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, who died on the cross for the redemption of our souls, and to bring new life to our spirits, healing the relationship between God and man.  

The obvious marks our Savior has, are the nail prints and the scar in His side from the spear that had pierced Him.  In time to come, these marks of Jesus Christ will show His true identity.

Revelation 1:7 mentions it ...

"Behold, He is coming with the clouds, and every eye will see Him, even those who pierced Him, and all tribes of the earth will wail on account of Him.  Even so.  Amen" (ESV  [emphasis mine]).

This is a soon-coming day being referred to.  The eye witness to Jesus' marks, of his death and resurrection, is namely Thomas.  He demanded to see the nailmarks in Jesus' hands and feet and place his hand into Jesus' side where the spear had pierced Him, otherwise he wouldn't believe this was truly Jesus who'd arisen from the dead (see John 20:25-27).

Jesus encouraged Thomas to do just that. 

 "See my hands and my feet, that it is I myself.  Touch Me and see.  For a spirit does not have flesh and bones as you see that I have" (Luke 24:39 ESV).

After saying this, Jesus showed not only Thomas, but all who had been in that upper room hide-away, His hands and His feet (see Luke 24:40 ESV).

There had even been OT prophecises of these marks.  Isaiah 53:5 tells us,

"But He was pierced for our transgression, He was crushed for our iniquities, upon Him was the chastisement that brought us peace, and with His wounds we are healed" (ESV).

There was the OT prophecy, there was the actual real time as-it-happens' marks, and the post resurrection confirmation of these piercings upon Jesus' body.  Then there's the future sightings prophesied to happen in time to come.

Our Lord Jesus' marks show us how much He loved us, that He would go through all this for our sakes.  They also show us His loyalty and commitment and obedience to His Father's will that He would carry out God's plan of salvation to full capacity and God's satisfaction.

The LORD crushed Jesus and brought Him grief as Jesus brought Himself as an offering and sacrifice for our souls.

"Out of anguish of His soul He [God] shall see and be satisfied; by His knowledge shall the righteous one, my servant, make many to be accounted righteous and He shall bear their iniquities" (Isaiah 53:10-11 ESV).

We ourselves may or may not have our own "marks of the Lord Jesus" for the testimony we bear for Him.  But we do have the blood of our Lord Jesus Christ upon our souls and spirits that, 

"blood of Jesus Christ that washes away our sin" (1 John 1:7).

God sees this upon our hearts and is satisfied.

We belong to Him now.  Ownership of our souls and very lives, is His.  He bought us.  Do you see yourself now as His loyal and committed servant?

Ponder all of this on any given Lord's Day as we, His children and bondservants, gather together to remember Him in His death and resurrection.  Reach for and partake of that broken bread and drink of that cup of wine in remembrance of all Jesus suffered for our sakes.  Remember those marks that prove it.  Praise His holy name.  Serve Him faithfully evermore.

Lord Jesus, we humbly bow before You in adoration and thankfulness.  Those marks You bore for us, Your children, get to us.  It hurts to think of all that pain and suffering You endured.  Yet, with hearts hurting within us, we thank You for going through with it all.  May we each be fully committed to loyally serving You until You call us home.  In Your name we give You priase.  Amen.

                                                 ~  ERC  April 2026  ~

Based on Galations 6:17-18 ESV.

Sing, The Love of God is Greater Far, along with and Because He Loved Me, along with klassenp1 (choir).

Open-Hearted Welcome (Romans15: especially vs 2 & 5-6 ESV)

 

"Let each of us please his neighbor for his good, to build him up ... May the God of endurance and encouragement grant you to live in such harmony with one another, in accord with Christ Jesus, that together you may with one voice glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ" (Romans 15:2, 5-6 ESV).

Observe the reason for pleasing one's neighbor.  It was for his good.  That "good" specifically, was to build him up.  It was not to be manipulated or favored for other special treatment.

So like a prayer, God was asked to grant the Roman believers endurance, and encouragement.  Why?  So that they could live in harmony, be in accord with Christ Jesus and have one voice to glorify God.

This was not to please their own self and their own preferences.  When you read through the whole letter to the Romans you'll see all the conflicts and issues that had arisen because they wanted to impose their own Jewish-ness or Gentile-ness.  These elements had been strongly imbedded into their beings - minds and hearts.

But now they needed to learn the new way in Christ.  It would take endurance because these issues would surface again and again and needed God's endurance to overcome.

They also needed God's encouragement to motivate them towards God's most excellent way.  So when they glorified God it would not be tainted by dissension but by one voice, in togetherness, in one accord and harmony.  They needed to do this attuning of their hearts and minds so that they could willingly and open-heartedly welcome one another as Christ had welcomed each of them (see vs7).  And this hope they had in Christ could then fill them with all joy and peace in believing, empowered by the Holy Spirit.

And so, Paul encouraged them with confidence, even though he had used some strong language as he pointed out various "reminders," as he called them, to instruct them in The Christian Way (see vs 14-15 ESV).

God and Father, to You we lift up our hearts and minds in one accord to glorify You.  It's only in You we have genuine endurance and encouragement to be one in Christ and to keep the unity of the Holy Spirit.  We can only thank You for all of this and forgiving us hope that we can indeed live in harmony with other believers of diverse backgrounds.  Thank You so much for the book of Romans that reveals these issues to us.  In Jesus' name we give You our thanks and praise.  Amen.

                                                  ~  ERC  May 2026  ~

Based on Romans 15: especially vs 2, 5 & 6 ESV.

Sing, Great Is Thy Faithfulness, along with Marantha Singers.

Food and Drink (Romans 14 ESV)

 "You are what you eat," is a slogan and book title by a nutritionist named Victor Lindlahr.  He said that our health is linked to the food we eat.  The 'for better or for worse' scenario comes to the fore.

Yes, I know that Paul was not talking about diet and health in Romans 14 but it is true that our diet can reflect our cultural and/or religious backgrounds.  The adherents to these backgrounds will indeed tend to have mirrored health, depending on the foods they eat.

But still, this was not Paul's point I believe.  When the food a person eats stems from religious and even cultural beliefs, and each respective person believes he or she is RIGHT!  that's where clashes could likely have broken out as each try to gain dominance.

Once again we are reminded of the Roman congregation of believers' backgrounds.  The Jews had food restrictions a mile long derived from the Law of Moses God had given to the Israelites and that was passed down through the ages - for more than one millenia!  

Cogitate on that a while.  How ingrained that'd be!  How right these laws would be as fixed in the minds of these religious devotees!  Enter the Gentiles who'd even eat pork and other foods sold in markets, food that had often been offered to idols first.  You get the picture!

Paul articulately addresses this issue in one magnificent, professional, fluid flourish of his mind and pen.  He wrote,

"I know and am persuaded in the Lord Jesus that nothing is unclean in itself, but it is unclean for anyone who thinks it unclean" (Romans 14:14 ESV).

And he even says,

"Let not the one who eats despise the one who abstains, and let not the one who abstains pass judgment on the one who eats, for God has welcomed him" (Romans 14:3 ESV).

That evens things up nicely.  Paul doesn't leave it at that though because if this is just a mechanical do or don't  on your own strength case, it would likely fail miserably.

"None of us lives to himself" (Romans 14:7).

You won't be able to do it alone.  You need the Lord and the fellowship of the believers in support.  And if a believer of whatever background grieves another brother or sister by what they eat in front of them, they are

"no longer walking in love" (vs. 15).

That puts it bluntly and Paul adds warning,

"Do not, for the sake of food, destroy the work of God" (vs 20).

Check it out.  Ask yourself,  "Am I ME-centered, or CHRIST-centered?!" 

I know a brother who eats with others - co-workers - but because they abstain from certain foods and he wants to eat with them to try to keep harmonious relationship as best he can for greater efficiency and healthy work environment, he'll join them in the type of food choice they make, even though it's not his favorite.  This is sacrifice to himself for the good of all.  He keeps his faith between himself and God, and eats what they eat.

What's more, when believers in Jesus Christ meet with other believers we can do ...

"... what makes for peace and for mutual upbuilding" (v. 19).

I realize this is not an easy road to travel, especially when certain things have been ingrained in us since childhood as if it's part of our DNA, but then again when we abstain or partake, in love and humility, the love of God by-the-way, it all helps to maintain unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace.

In so doing, we "do not destroy the work of God" for the sake of food or for the sake of whatever the quarrel is about.  Let not pride and "my right way" stumble another nor divide a congregation of believers.  Food and drink are not as important as peace and unity of Sprit among the people of God.

May our Lord bless the sacrifices we make in these types of circumstances.  God bless us all as we walk humbly with Him.

So be it, Lord.  Amen.

                                                      ~  ERC  May 2026  ~

Based on Romans 14 ESV.

Sing, When I Survey the Wondrous Cross, along with Alan Parks.

Walk Properly in Daylight (Romans 13 ESV)

 I'm always curious and somewhat astonished when God's Word lumps certain immoral actions together, some of which may not be considered as bad as others.  Yet, here is a Bible verse that sees them all on par.

"Let us walk properly as in the daytime, not in orgies and drunkennes, not in sexual immorality and sensuality, not in quarreling and jealousy" (Romans 13:13 ESV).

In my mind quarreling and jealousy are not near as bad as the others included on that list.  Perhaps, what they could lead to though, if left unchecked, is where the evil lies.

It's kind of like the Pharisee and the Tax Collector's attitudes and stances as they prayed and even why they'd come to pray in the first place.

One came to exalt himself, telling God how good he was - how morally upright he was.  In contrast, the tax collector humbly admitted his sinfulness, begging God for mercy.  "I'm a sinner," he outrightly confessed (see Luke 18:9-14).

Self-righteousness does not justify us.  So when we think one type of sin is worse than another, or that because we've lived a good-living life and haven't hurt anyone, we are justified in God's sight, we are blind to truth.

As Paul encouraged the Roman congregation of Jewish and Gentile believers,

"Cast off the works of darkness" (Roman 13:12 ESV).

Darkness that we think is light.  Let's understand how God sees us and our acitons.  Instead let's, 

" ... put on the armor of light ..." and "walk properly as in the daytime"                (Romans 13:12 & 13).

Allow the light of God and His Word to illuminate even to our most inner and intimate thoughts and intents of heart.

Paul adds something of major import ...

"But put on the Lord Jesus Christ, and make no provision for the flesh, to gratify its desires" (Romans 13:14 ESV).

Don't put temptation in temptation's way to test your own temptation thresholds.  We need to search our hearts and minds in the 'daylight' of God's Word and Holy Spirit conviction, thus avoiding all the immorality, even the bits we think aren't that bad.

                                                    ~  ERC  May 2026  ~

Based on Romans 13 ESV.

Sing, When We Walk With the Lord (Trust and Obey), along with the Isle of man Methodist Church choir.

Book Review - Disposable Wives - By Lynda Drews - Publication Date: 12 May 2026

 

Disposable Wives is of interest but not exactly a riveting read.  In fits and starts it did briefly grab my attention but then lagged where details bogged the story down.  However, I did keep in mind that this book is based on true life events.  Some accuracy in those details needed telling, I believe.

A  reader will encounter the story mainly through Pauline's and Xavier's eyes.  Pauline was a sister to Elvira who was one of Jean Philippe Sosquet's unfortunate, disposable wives.  Xavier was many things but functioned largely as a translater in this story.

One is taken through the runup to the alleged crimes, through the trials and what came afterwards.  How could one truly like a book though that's about such a dispicable man.  Yet,  I feel some small spark of justice has been done by mention of the three respective wives.  They have not been completely lost to buried history.

                                             ~  Eunice C.,  Reviewer/Blogger  ~

                                                            May 2026

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

Read review on Goodreads.

Heart Burn (Romans 12 ESV)

 

Once the people of God begin to humbly walk in a Christian way - remembering that no matter the walk of life and cultural and/or religious background they are from - they will be more unified, walking in the Spirit and in the unity of the Spirit God gave them.  There will be a bond of peace.  They will be more able to,

"... present [their] bodies as a lving sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God"               (Romans 12:1 ESV).

This will be their "spiritual worship," their way of life.

There will be transformation and renewal of mind, discernment of God's will.  All very important as is not thinking too highly of themselves (vs 2 & 3).  There will be love and genuine affection for each other and together, their service for the Lord will be

 "fervent in spirit" (v. 11).

There will be rejoicing, patience, constant prayer and so much more.  You will see it when you read Romans 12.  

Harmony.  This is not just a work the Lord loves, rather the action, and state of being in harmony He wants.  Harmony.  Unity.  Paul pushes these points and explains how to achieve it.  Jesus and Gentiles alike being addressed here.  Please, please, please, I hear in Paul's words ...

"If possible, so far as it depends on you, live peaceably with all" (vs 18).

Ths is the pro-active actions the assembly of believers in Rome could work on.  This is part and parcel of the "Christian Way".  It would take guts, they'd have to be living sacrifices.  They'd have to sacrifice, daily, all their own thoughts, ideas and opinions that stemmed from their upbringing whether religious and/or cultural.  Instead they'd need to seek out the better, more excellent way in Christ.

New thinking according to their "new creation in Christ" being.  And if they wanted to get revenge - leave it to God because

 "vengeance belonged to Him" (see v 19).

Furthermore, if they really and truly were concerned for their enemy, they'd be radical.  What?  Feed them?  Give them drink when and where needed?  They'd find out what those enemies needed and supply it.  That will get to the enemy and, 

"heap burning coals on his head" (v 20).

I'd think even on your own.  Perhaps not on your head but on your heart - you'd have heart burn.  Because, to be able to do genuine good to anyone you consider an enemy, the heart will need certain emotions burned away.  Emotions of anger, rebellion, revenge, and the like.  Showing goodness and kindness will cost and therefore, a sacrifice of our natural inclinations.  

No doubt we've all felt these.  Our Lord will be well-pleased when we can be more like Him in these matters.  May God get the glory from our lives that reflect Him.  This is acceptable to Him.

                                                  ~  ERC  May 2026  ~

Based on Romans 12 ESV.

Sing, There is One Gospel, along with City Alight.