My Top Worship Songs for 2025

Posted on May 12, 2025 by Mark Cole

Picking great songs for your congregation and worship band is one of the most important tasks of a worship leader. Great songs have a sense of God’s Spirit on them. Great worship songs make you want to sing them again and again. Great songs cause your spirit to rise in worship to the Lord.

I try to regularly update and reduced my worship list to 35 songs. For me, these songs are the best of the best, although it was hard to narrow it down to just 35. I also put in my preferred keys for strong congregational singing and guitar friendliness. (Using the Rule of D: i.e. the top note is around a D). The first key is for male leaders and the other key (in brackets) is for female leaders (the top note around a A-Bb)

Here is my list, let me know what you think. What great worship song am I missing from my list? 

Faster Tempo Songs:

  • Praise (Lake, Moore, Brown) – D or Eb (A-Bb) 
  • Great Things (Myrin, Wickham) – G (D)
  • My Testimony (Lake, Brown, Furtick) – F (D)
  • The House Of The Lord (Wickham, Smith) – E or F (D)
  • This Is Our God (Lake, Wickham) G or A (Eb or F)
  • We Praise You (Redman, Lake, Johnson, Wickham) – G (D or E)
  • This Is Amazing Grace (Riddle, Wickham, Faro) – G (E)
  • Take You At Your Word (Carnes, King, Hastings) – A or Bb (F-G)
  • Glorious Day (Ingram, Smith) – C (G)
  • I Thank God (Butler, Bow) – G (F)
  • The Joy (Holt, Wong) – G or A (F)

Medium Tempo Songs:

  • I Know A Name (Furtick, Lake) – G or Ab (D or Eb)
  • Goodness Of God (Fielding, Johnson, Cash, Ingram) – Bb (G-Ab)
  • Trust In God (Lake, Brown) – G or Ab (F)
  • Battle Belongs (Wickham, Johnson) – Ab (G)
  • Same God (Lake, Furtick, Barrett) – A (F)
  • Firm Foundation (Carnes) – E or F (C or D)
  • Graves Into Gardens (Lake, Furtick, Brown, Hammer) E or F (D)
  • Rest On Us (Lake, Smith) E or F (D)
  • Yes I Will (Hoagland, Smith, Fields) A (F)
  • Raise A Hallelujah (Stevens, Helser, Skaggs) – E (D)

Slower Tempo Songs: 

  • Holy Forever (Tomlin, Wickham, Johnson) A or Bb (G)
  • Praises (Be Lifted Up) (Baldwin) – G or Ab (F)
  • Worthy (Furtick, Brown) – D (C) 
  • Who Else (Gamboa, Funderburk, Rowe) – A (Ab or G)
  • Build My Life (Younker, Redman, Barrett) – E (D) 
  • Living Hope (Johnson, Wickham) – C (A-Bb)
  • Gratitude (Lake, Bow, Hastings) – G (E)
  • I Speak Jesus (Smith, Reeves, Prince) – Ab or G (F)
  • Worthy Of It All (Brymer, Hall) – F, G (D,E)
  • Make Room (White, Farro) – Ab-A (G-Ab)
  • Way Maker (Kalu, Egbu) B (A)
  • What A Beautiful Name (Fielding, Ligertwood) – E (D)
  • Great Are You Lord (Leonard, Ingram, Jordan) – E, F or G (D)
  • O Praise The Name (Anastasis) (Hastings,Sampson) – A (G)
  • King of Kings (Ligertwood, Ingram) * – Eb/D (C)

Top Hymns: 

  • How Great Thou Art – Bb (A)
  • Great Is Thy Faithfulness – C
  • I Stand Amazed (How Marvelous) – G
  • Amazing Grace (My Chains Are Gone) – E
  • At The Cross – G (F)
  • Holy, Holy, Holy – C-D
  • I Surrender All – C
  • It Is Well With My Soul – Bb-C

Contemporary and Modern Hymns

  • 10,000 Reasons – F (Eb)
  • Agnus Dei (Smith) – G or A (F)
  • Before The Throne Of God Above – D
  • Cornerstone (Morgan, Myrin, Mote, Liljero) – A (G) *
  • How Deep The Father’s Love For Us – G (E)
  • In Christ Alone – Eb (D)
  • Living Hope – (Wickham, Johnson) C (Bb)
  • Lord I Need You (Nockels, Carson, Reeves, Stanfill, Maher) – E (D) *
  • Shout To The Lord – Bb-C (A-B)
  • The Blood (Crouch) – G

Bonus 2: My Favorite Communion Songs

  • At The Cross (Zschech, Morgan) – E (D)
  • Because of Christ (Holt, Clayton) – E (C) **
  • King of Kings (Brooke, Ingram) – D (C)
  • Nothing But The Blood (Redman) – A (G)
  • Nothing But The Blood  (Plainfield) – E (F)
  • O Come To The Altar (Brown, Brock, Furtick, Joye) – G (E)
  • O The Blood (Barker) – G
  • O The Blood (Miller) – G
  • O Praise The Name (Anastasis) (Hastings, Ussher, Sampson) – A (G)
  • The Blood Will Never Lose It’ Power  (Crouch) – G-Ab

Bonus 3: My Favorite Altar Songs

  • Available (Furtick, Fielding, Ingram) – G (F or E)
  • O Come To The Altar (Brown, Brock, Furtick, Joye) – G (D)
  • I Surrender All (Deventer) – C (Bb)
  • Lord I Give You My Heart (Morgan) – G (E)
  • Come Just As You Are (Sabolick) – F (D)
  • Come As You Are (Glover, Crowder, Maher) – A (G)
  • Just As I Am  (Bradbury, Underwood) – B (A)
  • Make Room (White, Farro) – A-Bb (G-Ab)*

Check out my new book.. “Leading Worship ~ Notes from a Grand Adventure’ available in Kindle or Soft Cover Editions.  This is a great gift for the musician or worshipper in your life.

This blog is part of my vision to train over 100,000 worship leaders around the world. If you would like to support this vision you can help by giving any amount via PayPal here.

Comment: Hey Mark, I was just working on my worship set for Sunday and opened your ‘Top Worship Songs’ for probably the 300th time in the last year. Just wanted to let you know how much I appreciate you sharing the info (I use it often) and I appreciate you updating the list. Blessings to you in your work and ministry. – Seth from Virginia

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What Does It Mean To Be “Born Again”?

Posted on May 12, 2025 by Mark Cole

Have you ever heard someone say, “I’m a born-again Christian,” and wondered what that actually means? The phrase might sound unusual—especially if you’re not familiar with the Bible. But it comes straight from a fascinating conversation between Jesus and a religious leader named Nicodemus, recorded in John 3.

Let’s unpack it together.

The Late-Night Visit

Nicodemus was no ordinary man. He was a respected Pharisee, a teacher of religious law, and someone who took his faith seriously. But something about Jesus stirred his heart. So one night, he came to speak with Jesus privately. Maybe he didn’t want to be seen. Maybe he was simply seeking answers. Either way, his curiosity overcame his caution.

He began with a compliment:
“Rabbi,” he said, “We all know that God has sent You to teach us. Your miraculous signs are evidence that God is with You.” (John 3:2, NLT)

But Jesus cut to the heart:
“I tell you the truth, unless you are born again, you cannot see the Kingdom of God.” (John 3:3, NLT)

A Spiritual Rebirth

Nicodemus was confused. “What do You mean?” he exclaimed. “How can an old man go back into his mother’s womb and be born again?” (John 3:4, NLT)

Jesus replied,
“I assure you, no one can enter the Kingdom of God without being born of water and the Spirit. Humans can reproduce only human life, but the Holy Spirit gives birth to spiritual life.” (John 3:5–6, NLT)

To be born again means to experience a spiritual transformation. It’s not about turning over a new leaf or joining a church. It’s about a new beginning—a rebirth that comes only through the work of the Holy Spirit.

Why Do We Need to Be Born Again?

We were all born into a broken world. The Bible teaches that every one of us is born with a sinful nature. That sin separates us from God, no matter how religious or well-meaning we are.

Being born again is God’s solution. It’s not about patching up the old life. It’s about giving us a new heart, a new spirit, and a new identity—as His sons and daughters.

Jesus made it plain:
“So don’t be surprised when I say, ‘You must be born again.’” (John 3:7, NLT)

How Does It Happen?

Jesus later explains the way to this new birth:
“For this is how God loved the world: He gave His one and only Son, so that everyone who believes in Him will not perish but have eternal life.” (John 3:16, NLT)

To be born again is to believe in Jesus—to trust that He died on the cross for your sins and rose again so you could be forgiven, restored, and made new.

It’s not a ritual. It’s not about working harder or being “good enough.” It’s a moment of surrender, where you open your heart to Jesus and invite Him to change you from the inside out.

A Simple Prayer

If you feel a stirring in your heart—like Nicodemus did—here’s a simple prayer you can pray right now:

Jesus, I believe You are the Son of God. I believe You died and rose again to forgive my sins and give me new life. I want to be born again—made new by Your Holy Spirit. Come into my life. Forgive me. Change me from the inside out. I choose to follow You. Amen.

Final Thoughts

Nicodemus came to Jesus at night, full of questions. But he didn’t stay there. In John 19:39, we find him again—this time helping prepare Jesus’ body for burial after the crucifixion. He had moved from curiosity to courage… and from religion to relationship.

That same journey is open to all of us.

Being born again isn’t just for “church people.” It’s for anyone who wants to start over, be set free, and walk in a new life with God.

If you prayed that prayer or have more questions about what it means to be born again, I’d love to hear from you. Reach out through my contact page. Let’s talk.

—Mark

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Caring Without Enabling: A Biblical Response to Street Poverty

Posted on May 11, 2025 by Mark Cole

This week I was reading Psalm 41, and a verse jumped off the page:

“Oh, the joys of those who are kind to the poor!
The Lord rescues them when they are in trouble…
The Lord nurses them when they are sick and restores them to health.”
(Psalm 41:1,3 NLT)

That same week, I saw a number of panhandlers near malls and stoplights here in Calgary. Some held cardboard signs. Others just stood silently, hoping someone would notice. And I found myself in that familiar place again — the tension between compassion and caution.

What does it really look like to be kind to the poor without enabling harmful habits or being unwise with our giving?

1. Start with a Heart of Compassion

Scripture is clear: God cares deeply for the poor.
From the laws of Moses to the teachings of Jesus, we’re called to remember, serve, and stand up for the poor and oppressed.

“Whoever is kind to the poor lends to the Lord, and He will reward them for what they have done.” (Proverbs 19:17)

But compassion isn’t just about feelings. It’s about seeing people the way God does — with dignity, worth, and potential. Even if you decide not to give money, you can still look someone in the eye, offer a kind word, or simply smile. That act of human connection is a gift all on its own.

2. Be Wise as Well as Kind

Jesus said, “Be as shrewd as snakes and as innocent as doves” (Matthew 10:16). That applies here too. Giving money on the street may not always help the way we hope. It can sometimes fund addictions or create dependency.

That’s why many believers choose to give differently:

  • Keep a few fast-food gift cards in your car.
  • Carry a care kit (socks, snacks, toothbrush, water, etc.).
  • Support local ministries that provide food, shelter, job training, and spiritual care.

Being wise doesn’t mean being cold-hearted. It means stewarding our resources in a way that leads to restoration, not just relief.

3. Pray for Discernment in the Moment

There will be times when the Holy Spirit nudges you: “Give something. Speak something. Do something.” And there may be other times when He says, “Not today.”

It’s okay to walk away without guilt — as long as you’re listening to the Lord and not just your own convenience.
What matters is that your heart stays open and soft.

“If anyone has material possessions and sees a brother or sister in need but has no pity on them, how can the love of God be in that person?” (1 John 3:17)

4. Remember: We Are All Poor in Spirit

Jesus began His most famous sermon with this line:

“Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.” (Matthew 5:3)

At our core, every one of us is needy. Spiritually bankrupt. Dependent on God’s mercy. That levels the playing field and reminds us to approach others not from a place of superiority, but solidarity.

5. Don’t Let Guilt Lead You — Let Love Lead You

You won’t be able to help everyone. And you’re not supposed to. But you can live with a posture of kindness and generosity that reflects the heart of Christ.

As you drive past the next stoplight and see someone asking for help, ask the Holy Spirit:

“What does love look like here, Lord?”

And remember — even a cup of cold water given in Jesus’ name will not go unrewarded.

Question: What have you found to be the best solution or action in those settings?

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Why Jesus Turned Water into Wine—and What It Means for You

Posted on May 11, 2025 by Mark Cole

One of the most surprising miracles in the Bible is found in John 2, where Jesus turns water into wine at a wedding in Cana. It was His very first miracle—and honestly, it seems like an odd way to kick off a public ministry. No blind eyes opened. No lepers healed. No demons cast out. Just a quiet rescue of a wedding celebration that was about to take an awkward turn.

But if we look deeper, we see that this miracle was anything but random. In fact, it’s full of powerful truth that still speaks to us today.

1. Jesus Cares About Your Real Life

This wasn’t a temple or a synagogue—it was a party. A wedding celebration. The fact that Jesus chose to reveal His glory at a wedding tells us something important: He’s not just the God of sacred spaces—He’s the God of everyday moments.

Jesus was comfortable at a celebration, with laughter, dancing, and community. And when the wine ran out (a big social embarrassment in that culture), He stepped in to help. That says something: He cares about your joy. He sees your needs, even the ones that seem small.

2. He Transforms What’s Empty

The water jars Jesus used were for ceremonial washing—religious symbols of cleansing. They were big, empty, and ordinary. But Jesus told the servants to fill them with water… and then He turned the water into wine.

That’s more than a neat trick. It’s a picture of what Jesus came to do: to fill what is empty, and to transform the ordinary into something extraordinary.

What in your life feels dry or empty right now? A relationship? Your spiritual life? Your hope for the future? Jesus still turns water into wine. He still meets us where we are, and He doesn’t just restore—He transforms.

3. He Brings the Best, Not Just the Bare Minimum

The master of the banquet was shocked. Most people served the best wine first, and the cheap stuff once guests had had enough to not notice. But Jesus saved the best for last.

That’s what grace looks like. Jesus didn’t just do enough to cover the problem—He went beyond expectations. That’s His nature. When Jesus works in your life, He doesn’t bring a patched-up version of you. He brings abundance, joy, and the best version of what God always intended for you.

4. His Glory Is Often Quiet

It’s worth noting that only a few people knew what had happened: Mary, the servants, and the disciples. There was no spotlight, no crowd-wide announcement. Just quiet obedience, behind the scenes, and a miracle that sparked belief in His disciples.

Sometimes we think God’s glory will come in fireworks. But more often than not, it’s in the quiet moments, behind the scenes, when we’re doing what He asks even if it doesn’t make sense—“Fill the jars with water…”

5. It All Starts with an Invitation

Jesus was invited to the wedding. He showed up because He was welcomed. That seems simple, but it’s profound. When you invite Jesus into your life, your relationships, your struggles—He comes. And when He comes, He brings transformation.

So What Does It Mean for You?

It means:

  • Jesus sees your needs—even the small ones.
  • He can take what’s empty and fill it with joy.
  • He saves the best for last.
  • He works behind the scenes in powerful ways.
  • And He’s waiting to be invited in.

Maybe you’re reading this and you’re feeling like you’ve run out of “wine”—your energy, your joy, your hope is gone. Can I encourage you? Jesus is not just the God of religious moments—He’s the God of your Tuesday morning, your family gathering, your daily stress.

Invite Him in. He still turns water into wine.

Let me know in the comments: Where have you seen Jesus turn the ordinary into the extraordinary in your life?

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The Stairway Between Heaven and Earth

Posted on May 10, 2025 by Mark Cole

As I was reading John 1 this morning, one verse captured my attention in a profound way.

“I tell you the truth, you will all see heaven open and the angels of God going up and down on the Son of Man, the One who is the stairway between heaven and earth.”
—John 1:51 (NLT)

What a breathtaking statement from Jesus. The imagery is rich and deeply symbolic. If it sounds familiar, it’s because it echoes a scene from Genesis 28, where Jacob has a dream of a ladder reaching from earth to heaven, with angels ascending and descending on it. Jacob wakes up and declares, “Surely the Lord is in this place, and I was not aware of it.”

But here in John 1, Jesus doesn’t just refer to the ladder—He is the ladder. He is saying, “I am the connection. I am the bridge. I am the stairway between heaven and earth.”

Heaven Opened

In a world filled with division—between nations, races, political camps, even within families—Jesus stands as the divine connector. He opens the heavens to us. Not just one day when we die, but right now. Because of Jesus, the veil is torn. Heaven is no longer a far-off dream; it’s a present reality accessible through Him.

Jesus is the One who brings God to us and brings us to God.

Angels Going Up and Down

Why does this matter? Because it reminds us that there is ongoing activity between heaven and earth. God isn’t distant. His messengers are active. His presence is near. His power is at work. And it all flows through Jesus.

In your ordinary day—while making coffee, driving to work, playing with your kids, or going for a walk —Jesus is the stairway. You are never far from God’s presence.

The Son of Man

It’s striking that Jesus refers to Himself here as the “Son of Man.” It’s a humble title, but also a messianic one. He is fully human and fully divine. He knows our struggles. He walks in our shoes. And yet He opens the heavens to us.

This verse is more than poetry. It’s an invitation.

What It Means for You

  1. You are not alone. Heaven is open over your life because of Jesus.
  2. You have access. You don’t need to climb up to reach God—He has come down to you.
  3. You are part of a greater story. The activity of heaven surrounds your life more than you realize.

When you pray, worship, or simply call on Jesus’ name—you are standing at the foot of the divine stairway. You’re connected to the very throne of God.

May that truth give you hope, boldness, and peace today.

Reflection Question:
Where in your life do you need to remember that heaven is open because of Jesus?

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The Light Shines In The Darkness

Posted on May 9, 2025 by Mark Cole

“In the beginning the Word already existed.
The Word was with God, and the Word was God.
He existed in the beginning with God.
God created everything through Him, and nothing was created except through Him.
The Word gave life to everything that was created, and His life brought light to everyone.
The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness can never extinguish it.”
— John 1:1–5 (NLT)

There are few passages in Scripture that take your breath away like this one. John’s opening lines don’t ease you into the story gently—they lift the veil and throw open the windows to eternity. Before anything existed, the Word was. Before time, before space, before stars and planets, the Word already existed—alive, divine, eternal.

The Word: Jesus

John will later tell us plainly: “The Word became human and made His home among us” (John 1:14). The Word isn’t just a poetic idea—it’s Jesus, the Son of God. He didn’t begin in Bethlehem. He existed before creation. He was with God, and He was God.

This is one of the clearest declarations in Scripture of Jesus’ divinity. He wasn’t just a good man or wise teacher. He is the eternal Word—the divine expression of God Himself.

Through Him, Everything

Every tree you see, every mountain you hike, every sunrise and symphony and musical solo—it all came through Jesus. Paul echoes this in Colossians 1:16: “Everything was created through Him and for Him.”

That means Jesus is not just the Savior of our souls; He’s the Architect of our world. He is involved in every atom, every heartbeat. Everything good, beautiful, and true finds its source in Him.

Life and Light

John goes further. He says that “the Word gave life to everything that was created.” Not just physical life—but soul life. And this life brought light to everyone.

That light is more than illumination—it’s revelation. It’s hope. It’s truth. It’s love. It’s the unmistakable presence of God pushing back the shadows.

And here’s the most powerful promise in this passage: “The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness can never extinguish it.”

Darkness Doesn’t Win

We all walk through dark valleys—uncertainty, grief, discouragement, sin. But here’s the gospel truth: darkness never wins. The light of Jesus is stronger than any shadow you face. It cannot be extinguished, overcome, or erased.

We live in a world where bad news travels fast. But this is the good news we need every day: Jesus is the Light. He shines on broken hearts, cynical minds, and weary souls. And that light still burns brightly—even in the darkest places.

A Thought for Today

You may be feeling surrounded by darkness right now. Maybe in your health, your finances, your relationships, or even your faith. But John reminds us: the darkness cannot overcome the Light.

Let His light into every part of your life today. He was there at the beginning—and He’s still here now.

Reflection Questions:

  1. Where have you seen the light of Jesus shine in your life recently?
  2. Are there any areas where darkness is trying to creep in? Invite the Light in.
  3. Take a moment to worship Jesus—not just as Savior, but as the eternal Word, the Life-Giver, the Light of the World.
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When You Hear the Marching on the Trees

Posted on May 9, 2025 by Mark Cole

“When you hear a sound like marching feet in the tops of the poplar trees, be on the alert! That will be the signal that the Lord is moving ahead of you to strike down the Philistine army.”
— 2 Samuel 5:24 (NLT)

Some moments in life require action. Others demand waiting. But there are rare, sacred times when we must do both—watch and wait—and be ready to move when God moves.

In 2 Samuel 5, David finds himself facing the Philistines once again. He’s already tasted victory in the earlier verses, but the enemy returns, and David doesn’t presume the same strategy will work twice. He does what great leaders do—he inquires of the Lord.

This time, God gives him a peculiar instruction: don’t attack immediately. Circle around. Wait. And listen.

Wait for what? For the sound of marching in the tops of the poplar trees. That sound would be the unmistakable sign that God Himself was moving ahead to bring the victory.

What Does This Mean for Us Today?

We’re not battling Philistines. But we are in a battle—spiritually, emotionally, relationally, and often, physically. We fight discouragement, temptation, doubt, fear, and weariness. Sometimes we’re tempted to rush in, to fix things ourselves, to use yesterday’s strategy for today’s problem.

But here’s the truth: We need to hear the marching in the trees.

We need the signal that God is ahead of us, preparing the way.

That sound might be:

  • A confirmation in Scripture that jumps off the page.
  • A wise word from a friend or mentor.
  • A sense of peace in prayer.
  • An open door after a long season of closed ones.
  • The gentle whisper of the Holy Spirit

However it comes, when God moves, we move.

The Waiting Is Not Wasted

David waited. He listened. And then he acted at the right time. That’s the key.

Too often we think waiting means passivity. But waiting in God’s presence is active. It’s prayerful. It’s alert. It’s tuned in. Like David, we listen for God’s timing—not just His will, but His when.

Because victory isn’t just in knowing what to do. It’s in knowing when to do it.

For Believers Today

There are moments in life when I have sensed the Spirit moving in a unique way—maybe not in the way I planned. When that happens, I’ve learned to pause and pay attention. I listen for the sound in the trees.

The same applies to parenting, to pastoring, to making decisions about ministry, finances, relationships. God goes ahead of us, but only if we let Him lead.

Final Thought

What are you facing today? A battle? A decision? A confusing season?

Take a moment. Quiet your heart. Don’t rush in.

Wait. Ask the Lord. Listen. Obey.

The sound of marching in the trees may be closer than you think.

And when you hear it—move with courage, knowing God is already there.

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The Treasure of Wisdom

Posted on May 8, 2025 by Mark Cole

Reflections on Proverbs 8:17–21

One of the most beautiful and powerful sections in the Book of Proverbs is found in chapter 8, where Wisdom is personified—speaking as a woman who invites us to listen, follow, and live fully. This passage inspires my heart every time I read it:

“I love all who love me.
Those who search will surely find me.
I have riches and honor,
as well as enduring wealth and justice.
My gifts are better than gold, even the purest gold,
my wages better than sterling silver!
I walk in righteousness,
in paths of justice.
Those who love me inherit wealth.
I will fill their treasuries.”
— Proverbs 8:17–21 (NLT)

Let’s take a closer look at this treasure trove of truth and encouragement.

1. Wisdom is Relational and Responsive

“I love all who love me. Those who search will surely find me.”

Wisdom isn’t hiding. She isn’t aloof or reserved for the elite. Instead, she loves those who love her, and she reveals herself to those who search. This reminds me of what Jesus said: “Seek and you will find.” (Matthew 7:7) The pursuit of wisdom is not in vain—it is rewarded with insight, clarity, and deeper understanding. God’s wisdom is relational—it welcomes our hunger and honors our search.

2. Wisdom is Better Than Gold

“My gifts are better than gold…my wages better than sterling silver!”

We live in a world that chases material success—money, status, possessions. But Wisdom redirects our attention to something far more valuable: a life built on understanding, discernment, and character. Gold and silver come and go, but wisdom gives us something money can’t buy: peace of mind, integrity, and a legacy of godliness.

3. Wisdom Walks in Righteousness and Justice

“I walk in righteousness, in paths of justice.”

Wisdom is not morally neutral. She always leads us toward righteousness and justice. This is so important today. True wisdom never compromises integrity. It doesn’t cut corners. If a decision lacks righteousness or doesn’t lead toward justice, then it isn’t wise—no matter how clever it seems.

4. Wisdom Leads to Blessing

“Those who love me inherit wealth. I will fill their treasuries.”

What a promise! This verse doesn’t guarantee instant riches, but it does speak of lasting blessing. The “treasuries” Wisdom fills might include financial provision, but more often they overflow with peace, favor, purpose, influence, and generational fruit. When we walk in God’s wisdom, we build lives that are stable, fruitful, and deeply satisfying.

Final Thoughts

I’ve been following Jesus for many years now, and I can say this without hesitation: Living by God’s wisdom is always worth it. It protects us, blesses others through us, and draws us closer to the heart of God. Whether you’re a young adult just starting out, or in your later years wondering how to finish well, Proverbs 8 offers a roadmap: love wisdom, seek it daily, and follow it faithfully.

Let’s not be content with surface-level living. Let’s dig deep for wisdom that lasts. After all, the One who is the source of all wisdom—Jesus Himself—is calling us to walk in His ways.

If this spoke to your heart, share it with someone else who’s seeking direction today. Or drop me a comment—I’d love to hear how God’s wisdom has guided your life.

Blessings,
Mark Cole

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The Message and the Mission: Luke 24 and Our Call Today

Posted on May 8, 2025 by Mark Cole

At the end of Luke’s Gospel, Jesus appears to His disciples and offers them clarity about the message they are to carry into the world. He says:

“It was also written that this message would be proclaimed in the authority of His name to all the nations, beginning in Jerusalem: ‘There is forgiveness of sins for all who repent.’” (Luke 24:47, NLT)

In one short sentence, Jesus gives both the message and the mission. It’s simple, powerful, and eternally life-changing.

1. The Message: Forgiveness for All Who Repent

Jesus didn’t leave the content of the Gospel up for debate. At the heart of His message is forgiveness—a gift that is offered to all who repent. This means acknowledging our sin, turning from it, and turning to Jesus. The Gospel is not just good advice; it is good news for sinners.

We live in a world that often avoids the topic of sin. Many would rather talk about self-improvement than repentance. But Jesus doesn’t sidestep it. He puts repentance and forgiveness front and center.

This message is radically inclusive—for all who repent. Not just the religious. Not just the moral. Not just the people who grew up in church. All.

2. The Authority: In His Name

We are to proclaim this message in the authority of Jesus’ name. That means it’s not just a suggestion from one religion among many. It comes with the backing of heaven. Jesus, the risen Son of God, has the authority to forgive sins. That’s what the cross and the empty tomb are all about.

When we share the Gospel, we’re not just giving our opinion. We’re declaring what heaven has already declared: Jesus Christ is Lord, and forgiveness is found in Him alone.

This also brings comfort. It means we don’t have to rely on our own power, eloquence, or charisma. We go in His authority, not ours.

3. The Mission: To All Nations, Starting Where You Are

Jesus tells the disciples to begin in Jerusalem—right where they were. But they weren’t to stop there. This message was destined to reach “all the nations.”

For us, the call is the same. Begin where you are. Maybe that’s your church, your family, your workplace, your neighborhood. And from there, ask God to expand your reach—through your prayers, your giving, your encouragement, and even your going.

The Gospel is not meant to stay in one place. It moves. It spreads. It’s missional by nature.

4. A Personal Challenge

Here are a few questions to consider as you reflect on this verse:

  • Do I still believe that repentance and forgiveness are at the heart of the Good News?
  • Am I proclaiming this message in Jesus’ name—with His authority and love?
  • Where is my “Jerusalem”? Where can I start sharing this message today?
  • How can I be part of reaching the nations—near and far—with this message?

5. A Closing Prayer

Lord Jesus, thank You for the forgiveness You offer to all who repent. Help me to live in that forgiveness each day. Empower me to share this message with others—not in my own strength, but in the authority of Your name. Begin with me, right where I am. And send me, however You choose, to be part of reaching all nations. Amen.

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“Then He Opened Their Minds”: How Jesus Helps Us Understand Scripture

Posted on May 8, 2025 by Mark Cole

“Then He opened their minds to understand the Scriptures.”
— Luke 24:45 (CSB)

This simple phrase tucked into Luke 24 has sparked my curiosity. Jesus, the risen Lord, is walking with His disciples, and in this quiet moment, He opens their minds to understand the Scriptures. What a beautiful, powerful picture—Jesus personally unlocking spiritual truth for His followers.

But how did He do that? And how does He still do that today?

1. The Context: Disciples Who Were Confused and Grieving

The disciples in Luke 24 were heartbroken. Their Master had been crucified, and though there were rumors of resurrection, many were still trying to piece it all together. Jesus met them on the road to Emmaus (Luke 24:13–35) and again later in Jerusalem. As He walked and talked with them, He explained the Scriptures concerning Himself.

It wasn’t just a Bible study—it was divine revelation. He wasn’t giving them new Scriptures, but opening their hearts to see the true meaning of what had been there all along.

2. How Jesus Opened Their Minds Then

Jesus used several means:

  • He was present – The Word (Jesus) was walking them through the Word (Scripture).
  • He pointed to the whole story – “Everything written about Me in the Law of Moses, the Prophets, and the Psalms must be fulfilled” (Luke 24:44).
  • He gave divine understanding – “Then He opened their minds…” (v. 45).

This wasn’t just intellectual understanding. It was spiritual revelation. They finally saw what they had missed all along: that the Scriptures were about Him—His suffering, death, and resurrection.

3. How Jesus Opens Our Minds Today

Jesus is still in the business of opening minds and hearts.

Here’s how He does it now:

A) Through the Holy Spirit

Before ascending to heaven, Jesus promised the Holy Spirit would teach and guide us into truth (John 14:26; 16:13). When we read Scripture, the Holy Spirit illuminates, convicts, corrects, and comforts us. He whispers, “This is for you.”

B) Through the Word Itself

Hebrews 4:12 says God’s Word is “living and active.” When we approach it with hunger and humility, the Word begins to read us. Verses we’ve read for years come alive in new ways. Patterns emerge. Jesus is revealed.

C) Through Fellowship and Teaching

Sometimes our minds are opened through a pastor’s sermon, a small group discussion, or a friend’s insight. Like the disciples walking with Jesus, we learn in community.

D) Through Prayerful Seeking

When you open your Bible and spend time with God, ask for clarity and guidance: “Lord, open my eyes to see wonderful things in Your Word” (Psalm 119:18).
I’ve learned that revelation follows relationship. Jesus opens the minds of those who walk with Him, listen, and want to understand.

4. What This Means for Us Today

You don’t need a theology degree to understand the Bible. You need a heart that seeks Jesus and a mind that’s open to His Spirit.

Ask Him, “Lord, open my mind to understand.”
Expect insight. Expect revelation. Expect Jesus to meet you in the pages of His Word.

Let’s not just read the Bible for information. Let’s read it for transformation.

Closing Thought
Jesus still walks with us on our “Emmaus roads.” In the moments when we’re confused, grieving, or uncertain, He still opens minds and hearts. He’s not hiding truth—He’s revealing it.

Open your Bible today. Invite Him to open your mind. He still does it.

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