Do Not Be Afraid: Overcoming Fear and Walking in Your God-Given Destiny

Posted on March 24, 2025 by Mark Cole

Fear is one of the greatest barriers that prevents people from stepping into their God-given destiny. Throughout Scripture, we repeatedly hear the words, “Do not be afraid.” God spoke these words to Abraham, Moses, Joshua, Gideon, Mary, and countless others. Jesus frequently told His disciples, “Fear not.” Why? Because fear is a crippler. It paralyzes, limits, and hinders us from fulfilling what God has called us to do.

The Power of Fear

Fear has a way of magnifying obstacles and minimizing God’s power in our minds. It whispers lies that we are not good enough, not strong enough, and not worthy of God’s calling. If we allow fear to take root, it can keep us trapped in cycles of doubt, hesitation, and inaction.

But fear is not from God. 2 Timothy 1:7 reminds us: “For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind.” If fear is not from God, then it is something we must confront and overcome.

How to Overcome Fear

If we want to walk in the fullness of what God has for us, we must learn how to defeat fear. Here are some biblical strategies to overcome fear and step into your God-given destiny:

1. Trust in God’s Presence

One of the greatest reassurances in Scripture is that God is with us. When God called Moses, Gideon, and Joshua—men who were fearful—He always promised, “I will be with you.”

  • Isaiah 41:10 – “Do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God.”
  • Joshua 1:9 – “Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.”

When you face fear, remind yourself that you are never alone. God walks with you every step of the way.

2. Stand on God’s Word

Fear grows when we focus on our circumstances rather than on God’s promises. Scripture is filled with promises of protection, provision, and purpose.

  • Meditate on passages like Psalm 23, Psalm 91, and Romans 8:31-39.
  • Replace fearful thoughts with God’s truth: “If God is for us, who can be against us?” (Romans 8:31)
  • Speak God’s Word aloud to reinforce His promises in your heart.

3. Take a Step of Faith

Faith is the antidote to fear. Sometimes, the only way to break fear’s hold is to move forward in obedience, even if you feel afraid. Fear often fades when we take action.

  • Peter had to step out of the boat to walk on water (Matthew 14:29).
  • The Israelites had to step into the Jordan River before the waters parted (Joshua 3:15-16).
  • David ran toward Goliath instead of shrinking back in fear (1 Samuel 17:48).

Whatever God is calling you to do, take the first step. Action destroys fear.

4. Pray and Surrender Your Fears to God

Philippians 4:6-7 tells us to “not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”

When fear creeps in, take it to God in prayer. Surrender your worries and trust that He is in control.

5. Surround Yourself with Faith-Filled People

Fear thrives in isolation, but faith grows in community. Surround yourself with people who encourage you, speak life over you, and challenge you to trust God.

  • Find a mentor or accountability partner.
  • Be part of a church or small group that strengthens your faith.
  • Listen to testimonies of others who have overcome fear through faith.

Walk Boldly in Your Calling

Fear will always try to creep in, but you don’t have to be a slave to it. You have been called by God for a purpose, and fear has no place in your journey. Choose to trust in God’s presence, stand on His Word, take bold steps of faith, pray without ceasing, and surround yourself with faith-filled people.

Whatever God is calling you to do—whether it’s leading worship, sharing the gospel, starting a ministry, or simply being a light in your workplace—do it with courage. Remember, God has not given you a spirit of fear, but of power, love, and a sound mind. Step into your destiny with confidence, knowing that the One who calls you is faithful.

What step will you take today to overcome fear?

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How to Find Salvation and Forgiveness of Your Sins

Posted on March 23, 2025 by Mark Cole

In Luke 1:76-77, Zechariah prophesies over his newborn son, John the Baptist, saying:

“And you, my little son, will be called the prophet of the Most High, because you will prepare the way for the Lord. You will tell His people how to find salvation through forgiveness of their sins.” (Luke 1:76-77, NLT)

John’s mission was to point people to Jesus, the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world (John 1:29). He called people to repentance and prepared the way for Christ’s ministry. The question remains: how do we find salvation and forgiveness today?

1. Recognize Your Need for a Savior

The first step to finding salvation is recognizing that we are sinners. Romans 3:23 says, “For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.” Sin separates us from God, and we cannot save ourselves through good works or religious efforts.

2. Believe in Jesus Christ

The heart of the gospel is that salvation comes through faith in Jesus. John 3:16 declares, “For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life.” Jesus died on the cross to pay for our sins and rose again, proving His victory over sin and death.

3. Repent and Turn to God

Repentance means turning away from sin and turning toward God. John the Baptist preached, “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand!” (Matthew 3:2). True repentance isn’t just feeling sorry for sin but making a decision to change and follow Christ.

4. Confess Jesus as Lord

Romans 10:9 tells us, “If you declare with your mouth, ‘Jesus is Lord,’ and believe in your heart that God raised Him from the dead, you will be saved.” Salvation comes through faith and confession—publicly acknowledging Jesus as your Savior and Lord.

5. Receive God’s Grace by Faith

Ephesians 2:8-9 says, “For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God—not by works, so that no one can boast.” We don’t earn forgiveness; we receive it as a free gift from God through faith in Jesus.

6. Walk in New Life

When we receive Christ, we are made new. 2 Corinthians 5:17 declares, “Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!” We begin a new life of following Jesus, growing in faith, and living in obedience to God’s Word.

7. Be Baptized and Join the Family of God

Jesus commands His followers to be baptized as a public declaration of faith (Matthew 28:19-20). Baptism is an outward sign of an inward transformation. Being part of a church community helps us grow and stay strong in our faith.

Final Thoughts

Salvation and forgiveness are found in Jesus Christ alone. John the Baptist pointed people to Jesus, and today, we also call people to turn to Him. If you have never made this decision, now is the time to accept Christ’s free gift of salvation. Simply pray, confess your faith in Jesus, and begin your journey of walking with Him.

“Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.” (Romans 10:13)

Have you experienced the forgiveness of Jesus? If not, He is ready to receive you today!

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10 Proofs That There Is a God—And Why You Should Consider Following Him

Posted on March 23, 2025 by Mark Cole

The question of God’s existence is the most important one we can ask. If God exists, then our purpose, destiny, and morality are all tied to Him. If He doesn’t, then we are merely products of chance with no ultimate meaning. Here are ten compelling proofs for the existence of God—and why you should consider following Him.

1. The Universe Had a Beginning (Cosmological Argument)

Science confirms that the universe had a beginning (Big Bang Theory). Everything that begins to exist must have a cause. The best explanation is an eternal, uncaused Creator—God.

2. The Fine-Tuning of the Universe (Teleological Argument)

The universe is incredibly fine-tuned for life. If any of the fundamental forces (gravity, electromagnetism, nuclear forces) were altered even slightly, life would be impossible. This suggests an intelligent Designer rather than random chance.

3. The Complexity of Life (Biological Evidence)

DNA is a highly sophisticated code, more complex than any human software. Every cell in our body carries information that directs life functions. Codes and information always come from intelligence—pointing to a Creator.

4. The Reality of Objective Morality (Moral Argument)

Every human has a sense of right and wrong. If morality were just a human invention, there would be no objective standards of good and evil. The existence of absolute moral laws suggests a Lawgiver—God.

5. The Existence of Consciousness and Free Will

Materialism (the belief that everything is just physical) cannot explain human consciousness or free will. Our ability to reason, love, and choose points to a spiritual reality beyond the physical world.

6. The Historical Jesus and His Resurrection

Jesus Christ is the most influential person in history. Historical evidence, including eyewitness accounts and early writings, strongly supports His resurrection from the dead. If Jesus rose from the dead, it validates His claim to be God.

7. The Transforming Power of Faith

Millions of people throughout history have experienced radical life transformation through a relationship with Jesus Christ—freedom from addictions, newfound purpose, and peace in suffering. Personal encounters with God are evidence of His reality.

8. Fulfilled Prophecy in the Bible

The Bible contains hundreds of prophecies that have been fulfilled with precision. For example, prophecies about Jesus’ birth, death, and resurrection were written centuries before they happened—proving divine authorship.

9. The Existence of Love, Beauty, and Meaning

Love, beauty, and purpose are fundamental to human experience. If we were just accidents of nature, why do we long for meaning? These universal desires suggest we were made by a loving Creator for a purpose.

10. Personal Experience with God

Beyond intellectual arguments, millions have personally encountered God through prayer, miracles, and answered prayers. When people seek God, they find Him. Personally, I have walked with God for over 50 years and have seen miracles, personal healing, relationship, supply, direction, peace, and contentment that gives me such a confidence and love for Him. These experiences are not coincidences but evidence of a real, living God who is actively involved in our lives.

Why You Should Consider Following God

If God is real, then knowing Him is life’s greatest pursuit. Jesus invites us into a relationship with Him, offering forgiveness, eternal life, and purpose. He said, “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me” (John 14:6).

God is not just a theory—He is a living Being who loves you and wants to walk with you. The question isn’t just whether God exists, but whether you are willing to follow Him.

Will you take the step to seek Him today?

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The Blessings of Humility and the Fear of the Lord

Posted on March 22, 2025 by Mark Cole

One of my favorite proverbs is Proverbs 22:4: “True humility and fear of the Lord lead to riches, honor, and long life.” This verse is a powerful and profound promise, offering insight into the heart of God’s blessings for those who walk in humility and reverence before Him.

Understanding True Humility

Humility is often misunderstood. Some see it as weakness, self-deprecation, or a lack of confidence. However, true humility is recognizing our dependence on God and understanding our rightful place before Him. It is not about thinking less of ourselves but thinking of ourselves less. Philippians 2:3 reminds us, “Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves.” When we acknowledge that everything we have is a gift from God, we develop a heart posture that welcomes His wisdom, favor, and guidance.

The Fear of the Lord: A Life of Reverence

The fear of the Lord is not a fear that drives us away from God but rather a deep reverence and awe for His holiness, power, and authority. It is a posture of surrender, aligning our lives with His Word. Proverbs 9:10 tells us, “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, and knowledge of the Holy One is understanding.” When we live in this kind of reverence, we make choices that reflect His will, avoid sin, and walk in obedience. This fear is the foundation of a life blessed by God.

The Promises of Riches, Honor, and Long Life

God promises three incredible rewards to those who walk in humility and the fear of the Lord:

  1. Riches – While this does not always mean financial wealth, it speaks of God’s provision. He blesses those who trust in Him, whether through material resources, spiritual riches, or relational prosperity. A life surrendered to God leads to wise stewardship and generosity, which often results in His provision.
  2. Honor – Honor is not something we demand but something God bestows. When we live humbly before Him, He lifts us up at the right time (James 4:10). Whether in our families, workplaces, or communities, God honors those who walk faithfully with Him.
  3. Long Life – While not an absolute guarantee, a life lived in obedience to God often leads to longevity. Wise choices, avoiding destructive habits, and living in peace with others contribute to a longer, healthier life. More importantly, for believers, our ultimate hope is eternal life with Christ.

Walking This Path Daily

Living out this verse requires intentionality. Here are a few practical ways to cultivate humility and the fear of the Lord:

  • Start each day with gratitude – Recognizing that every good gift comes from God keeps us humble.
  • Seek God’s wisdom – Read His Word, pray, and allow the Holy Spirit to guide your decisions.
  • Honor others – Treat people with respect and love, recognizing their worth as God’s creation.
  • Obey God’s commands – Make choices that reflect a heart that reveres and honors Him.

Final Thoughts

Proverbs 22:4 is a timeless principle that reveals the heart of God’s blessings. True humility and a reverent fear of the Lord set the stage for a life filled with His provision, honor, and the joy of longevity. As we cultivate these qualities daily, we align ourselves with the very nature of Christ, who humbled Himself and was exalted by God (Philippians 2:5-11).

May we walk in true humility and the fear of the Lord, embracing the abundant life He has promised.

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Lessons from the Journey to the Promised Land

Posted on March 22, 2025 by Mark Cole

The Israelites’ journey from Egypt to the Promised Land was long, difficult, and filled with unexpected detours. What should have taken just 11 days (Deuteronomy 1:2) stretched into 40 years due to their lack of faith, disobedience, and need for spiritual transformation. Their journey serves as a powerful metaphor for our own walk with God today. Here are some key lessons modern believers can learn from their experience:

1. God’s Timing is Different from Ours

The Israelites likely expected a quick trip to Canaan, but God had a greater plan. Their extended time in the wilderness was not wasted—it was a time of preparation. Many of us want immediate answers, quick spiritual growth, and instant blessings, but God often takes us on the long route to refine us and deepen our trust in Him. When delays happen in our lives, we can remember that God’s timing is always perfect.

2. Faith and Obedience Matter

When the 12 spies returned from scouting the land, only Joshua and Caleb had faith that God would give them victory (Numbers 13-14). The rest of the Israelites doubted and refused to go forward, leading to an entire generation wandering in the desert and missing out on God’s promise. This reminds us that unbelief and disobedience can delay or derail God’s best for us. If we trust and obey Him, He will lead us into His promises.

3. God Provides in the Wilderness

Even in the desert, God miraculously provided manna, quail, and water from a rock (Numbers 11, 20). Their shoes and clothes didn’t wear out for 40 years! (Deuteronomy 29:5). When we find ourselves in a dry or difficult season, we can trust that God’s provision is enough—even when we don’t see the full picture.

4. Complaining is a Spiritual Problem

The Israelites grumbled again and again (Numbers 11:1-6, 14:2-4), even longing to return to Egypt! Their complaints weren’t just about circumstances; they revealed a lack of trust in God. How often do we do the same? Instead of complaining, we should choose gratitude and trust that God is leading us well.

5. Spiritual Leadership is Hard but Necessary

Moses faced opposition from the people and even from his own family (Numbers 12, 16). Leadership in God’s kingdom requires patience, humility, and dependence on Him. Whether you lead a family, a ministry, or a workplace, stay faithful and rely on God’s strength, not your own.

6. Wilderness Seasons Have a Purpose

The Israelites’ time in the wilderness was not just punishment; it was training for the next generation. The struggles we face often shape us for future blessings and responsibilities. Instead of resisting the process, we should ask, “Lord, what are You teaching me in this season?”

7. God’s Presence Leads the Way

The Israelites were led by a pillar of cloud by day and fire by night (Numbers 9:15-23). God was visibly present, guiding them step by step. Today, we have the Holy Spirit and God’s Word to lead us. If we follow His presence, we will always be on the right path.

8. Sin Has Consequences, but God’s Mercy Endures

Rebellion, like Korah’s (Numbers 16), brought judgment. But even when Israel failed, God repeatedly forgave them and remained faithful to His covenant. Likewise, while sin has consequences, God’s grace offers second chances. No matter how far we’ve strayed, we can always repent and return to Him.

Final Thoughts

The Israelites’ journey is a reflection of our own spiritual walk. There will be delays, hardships, and lessons to learn, but if we trust and obey God, He will bring us into His promises. Whether you are in a season of wandering, waiting, or walking in God’s promises, remember that He is always leading you—and He will finish the good work He has started in you (Philippians 1:6).

What lessons have you learned from your own “wilderness” seasons?

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Jesus, Ruler of the Unshakable Kingdom

Posted on March 22, 2025 by Mark Cole

Throughout history, kingdoms and empires have risen and fallen. Mighty rulers have established dominions, only to see them crumble with time. Yet, there is one kingdom that stands above them all—one that can never be shaken or destroyed. It is the kingdom of Jesus Christ, the eternal ruler whose reign will never end.

The Promise of an Eternal Kingdom

When the angel Gabriel appeared to Mary, he declared a prophecy that shook the world:
“You will conceive and give birth to a Son, and you will name Him Jesus. He will be very great and will be called the Son of the Most High. The Lord God will give Him the throne of His ancestor David. And He will reign over Israel forever; His Kingdom will never end!” (Luke 1:31-33, NLT)

From the very beginning, Jesus was not just another earthly king. His kingdom was not limited by geography, time, or political power. He was the fulfillment of God’s promise to David that his throne would be established forever (2 Samuel 7:12-16). While earthly rulers struggle to maintain power, Jesus’ rule is eternal, unshakable, and absolute.

Jesus’ Reign: Now and Forever

Many in Jesus’ day expected the Messiah to overthrow Rome and establish a political kingdom. But Jesus made it clear that His kingdom was not of this world (John 18:36). Instead, His rule began in the hearts of those who believe in Him.

  • Now: Jesus reigns in the lives of His followers. When we submit to Him, we become part of His kingdom, living under His rule of grace, peace, and righteousness (Colossians 1:13).
  • Future: A day is coming when Jesus will return to establish His visible, physical kingdom. Revelation 11:15 declares, “The kingdom of the world has become the kingdom of our Lord and of His Christ, and He shall reign forever and ever.”

Unlike earthly kingdoms, which are shaken by war, corruption, and failure, Jesus’ kingdom is unshakable. Hebrews 12:28 reminds us, “Since we are receiving a kingdom that cannot be shaken, let us be thankful and so worship God acceptably with reverence and awe.”

How Do We Live in His Unshakable Kingdom?

If Jesus is the ruler of an unshakable kingdom, how should we live? Here are three key ways:

  1. Trust in His Sovereignty – The world is unstable, but Jesus is in control. No political crisis, personal trial, or global turmoil can shake His kingdom.
  2. Live as Kingdom Citizens – We are called to reflect the values of His kingdom: righteousness, peace, and joy in the Holy Spirit (Romans 14:17). Our lives should display His love, justice, and truth.
  3. Fix Our Eyes on the Eternal – Earthly things will pass away, but Jesus’ reign is forever. We should build our lives on His unshakable promises rather than the temporary securities of this world.

Final Thought: A King Worthy of Our Worship

Jesus is not just another ruler; He is the King of kings, the Lord of lords, and the eternal Ruler of the unshakable kingdom. While nations may crumble and leaders may fail, His throne is established forever. As His followers, we can walk in confidence, knowing that we belong to a kingdom that will never be shaken.

So let us live with faith, hope, and boldness, proclaiming the good news that our King reigns—and His kingdom is forever! Amen.

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Poured Out in Worship: What the Drink Offering Teaches Us Today

Posted on March 21, 2025 by Mark Cole

Have you ever read a verse in the Bible that made you pause and wonder, “What does this mean for me today?” One such verse appears in Numbers 28:7 (NLT):

“Along with it you must present the proper liquid offering of one quart of alcoholic drink with each lamb, poured out in the Holy Place as an offering to the Lord.”

At first glance, this instruction may seem like just another ancient ritual, but when we dig deeper, we find a powerful lesson about worship, sacrifice, and devotion to God.

Understanding the Drink Offering

In Numbers 28, God gives Moses detailed instructions for Israel’s daily, weekly, and festival offerings. These sacrifices were not just about atonement; they were a way for the people to express their devotion, gratitude, and dependence on God.

The drink offering, which was poured out in the Holy Place, was never offered alone. It accompanied burnt and grain offerings:

  • The lamb (symbolizing atonement and foreshadowing Christ, the Lamb of God).
  • The grain offering (acknowledging God’s provision of daily bread).
  • The drink offering (a symbol of joy and complete surrender).

How This Applies to Worship Today

While we no longer offer animal sacrifices, the principle of being “poured out” in worship still applies. Here’s what we can learn from the drink offering:

1. Worship is About Giving, Not Just Receiving

Too often, worship is approached with the mindset of what we get out of it—whether it’s a certain feeling, encouragement, or inspiration. But biblical worship is about giving God our best, not just receiving from Him. The drink offering was poured out completely, showing full devotion. Are we offering our hearts fully to God in worship, or holding something back?

2. Our Lives Are an Offering

The Apostle Paul connected the drink offering to the Christian life of sacrifice:

“Even if I am being poured out like a drink offering on the sacrifice and service coming from your faith, I am glad and rejoice with all of you.” (Philippians 2:17)

Paul saw his life as something to be poured out for God’s purposes, just as the drink offering was completely given. This challenges us: Are we holding back parts of our lives, or are we willing to be fully surrendered to God’s plan?

3. Joy in Sacrificial Worship

Wine, often symbolizing joy and blessing, was used in the drink offering. This reminds us that true worship isn’t about duty alone—it is a joyful act of honoring God with our best. When we pour ourselves out in worship, whether through song, service, or obedience, it should be done with gladness, not reluctance.

How to Be ‘Poured Out’ in Worship Today

  • Engage fully in worship. Don’t just go through the motions—give God your whole heart.
  • Serve with joy. Like the drink offering, let your service be a joyful sacrifice to God.
  • Surrender daily. Each day, ask, “Lord, how can I pour out my life for You today?”

Final Thoughts

Numbers 28:7 is more than an obscure Old Testament law—it’s a beautiful picture of complete devotion. Just as the drink offering was poured out before the Lord, we are called to pour out our worship, our time, our talents, and our very lives as an offering to Him. True worship isn’t about holding back—it’s about giving everything to the One who gave everything for us.

So, the next time you step into worship, whether in a church service or in your daily walk with God, ask yourself: Am I being fully poured out in worship?

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How to Be Filled with the Holy Spirit

Posted on March 20, 2025 by Mark Cole

One of the most powerful promises in the Bible is that believers can be filled with the Holy Spirit. This isn’t just for a select few—it’s for every follower of Jesus. But what does it mean to be filled with the Spirit? And how can we experience this in our daily lives?

What Does It Mean to Be Filled with the Holy Spirit?

Being filled with the Holy Spirit means being empowered, guided, and transformed by God’s presence in our lives. It’s not just a one-time event but an ongoing experience of walking in step with the Spirit (Galatians 5:16). In Acts 2, the early church was filled with the Spirit at Pentecost, but throughout the book of Acts, believers were repeatedly filled as they carried out God’s work (Acts 4:31, Acts 13:52).

Why Do We Need to Be Filled?

Jesus told His disciples:
“You will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you, and you will be My witnesses” (Acts 1:8).

The filling of the Spirit gives us:

  • Power to live a victorious Christian life.
  • Boldness to share the gospel.
  • Spiritual gifts for ministry.
  • Guidance in making decisions.
  • Victory over sin and the ability to produce the fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22-23).

If we try to live the Christian life in our own strength, we will struggle. We need the Spirit’s filling daily!

How to Be Filled with the Holy Spirit

1. Desire to Be Filled

Jesus said:
“Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be filled” (Matthew 5:6).

God won’t force His Spirit on us. We must have a genuine desire to be filled. Do you truly long for the Holy Spirit to take control of your life?

2. Ask in Faith

Jesus promised:
“If you… know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father in heaven give the Holy Spirit to those who ask Him!” (Luke 11:13).

Being filled with the Spirit is a gift, not something we earn. We simply need to ask in faith, believing God’s promise.

3. Repent of Sin and Surrender to God

Sin grieves the Holy Spirit (Ephesians 4:30). If we want to be filled, we must turn from anything that displeases God and fully surrender to His will. Romans 12:1 urges us to offer our bodies as a living sacrifice to God. A surrendered heart is a vessel ready to be filled!

4. Live in God’s Word and Worship

Colossians 3:16 says, “Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly.” The Spirit works through the Word of God—the more we fill our hearts with Scripture, the more we align with the Spirit’s leading.

Ephesians 5:18-19 connects being filled with the Spirit to worship: “Be filled with the Spirit, speaking to one another with psalms, hymns, and songs from the Spirit.” Worship softens our hearts and positions us to receive the Spirit’s filling.

5. Walk in Step with the Spirit

Being filled isn’t just about an emotional experience—it’s about living daily under the Spirit’s guidance. Galatians 5:25 says, “Since we live by the Spirit, let us keep in step with the Spirit.”

  • Listen for His voice.
  • Obey His promptings.
  • Stay connected to God through prayer.

Evidence of the Spirit’s Filling

How do you know if you are filled with the Holy Spirit? The Bible provides clear signs of a Spirit-filled life:

  • Boldness in sharing the gospel – The apostles, once fearful, spoke with courage after being filled (Acts 4:31).
  • Speaking in tongues and prophecy – At Pentecost and in other instances, believers spoke in tongues and prophesied as evidence of being filled (Acts 2:4, Acts 10:44-46, Acts 19:6).
  • Supernatural wisdom and guidance – The Spirit leads us in decision-making (Acts 13:2, Romans 8:14).
  • Victory over sin and godly living – The Spirit helps us overcome sinful desires (Romans 8:13, Galatians 5:16).
  • An overflowing heart of worship – Spirit-filled believers express joy through songs, praise, and thanksgiving (Ephesians 5:18-20).
  • The fruit of the Spirit – Love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control are the natural outgrowth of a Spirit-filled life (Galatians 5:22-23).

Final Thoughts

The filling of the Holy Spirit is not a one-time event but a continuous process. Just as we need to refill our car with gas, we need daily renewal from the Spirit.

If you’ve never been filled, ask God today! If you have been filled before, keep seeking His presence every day.

When we are filled with the Spirit, our lives will overflow with power, love, and boldness—and we will be transformed into the image of Christ.

Are you ready to be filled? Ask God today!

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How Should We Live: Reflections on Psalm 139:16

Posted on March 19, 2025 by Mark Cole

“You saw me before I was born. Every day of my life was recorded in your book. Every moment was laid out before a single day had passed.” — Psalm 139:16 (NLT)

This verse is one of the most awe-inspiring truths in Scripture. It reminds us that God knew us before we were even formed, and every day of our lives has already been recorded in His book. It’s mind-blowing to consider that before we took our first breath, God had already mapped out our journey. But how should this truth shape the way we live as followers of Jesus? Here are five key ways:

1. Live with Trust and Confidence in God’s Plan

Since God has already seen every moment of our lives, nothing catches Him by surprise. Whether we’re walking through seasons of joy or struggle, we can have confidence that He is in control.

When challenges arise, we don’t have to panic or try to figure everything out on our own. Instead, we can rest in the promise of Romans 8:28: “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love Him, who have been called according to His purpose.” Living with trust means embracing each day with the assurance that God’s hand is guiding us.

2. Live with Purpose and Intentionality

If God has already prepared a path for us, our job is to walk in it. Ephesians 2:10 tells us: “For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.” This means that every gift, every opportunity, and every relationship we have is an opportunity to glorify Him.

Rather than drifting through life aimlessly, we should seek to understand His calling for us and live with purpose. Whether in ministry, our careers, or our families, we should approach life with intentionality, knowing that God has designed us to make an impact.

3. Live with Peace, Not Fear

It’s easy to worry about the future, but Psalm 139:16 reminds us that our days are already known by God. Fear often comes when we feel uncertain, but we can combat anxiety with the truth that our future is secure in His hands.

Isaiah 41:10 reassures us: “Do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God.” If we truly believe that God has already planned our steps, we can move forward in faith rather than be paralyzed by fear.

4. Live with Worship and Gratitude

Psalm 139 as a whole is a declaration of God’s intimate knowledge and love for us. He not only sees us but also cares deeply for us. This should stir up gratitude in our hearts and lead us to worship Him.

When we recognize that our lives are not accidents but intentional designs of a loving Creator, our natural response should be praise. Whether through song, prayer, or the way we live our lives, we should reflect a heart of thankfulness.

5. Live with an Eternal Perspective

If every day of our lives is already written, then our time here on earth is both short and significant. Psalm 90:12 reminds us: “Teach us to number our days, that we may gain a heart of wisdom.” Understanding that our lives are brief should inspire us to focus on what truly matters—our relationship with God, loving others, and making an eternal impact.

Rather than getting caught up in temporary worries, possessions, or distractions, we should keep our eyes on eternity. Investing in God’s kingdom through discipleship, generosity, and sharing the gospel should be our highest priority.

Final Thoughts

Psalm 139:16 is a powerful reminder that our lives are not random or meaningless. God has seen every moment before it even happened, and He has a purpose for us in every season.

So, how should we live? With trust in God’s plan, intentionality in our calling, peace in uncertainty, gratitude in worship, and an eternal perspective. When we embrace these truths, we can walk in confidence, knowing that the God who formed us is leading us every step of the way.

How does this truth impact you personally? Let’s continue the conversation—drop a comment or share how this verse has encouraged you!

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When Obedience Matters: Why God Was Displeased with Moses

Posted on March 18, 2025 by Mark Cole

In the book of Numbers, we find a striking (no pun intended) moment in Moses’ leadership journey—one that cost him dearly.

The Story: A Command and a Consequence

In Numbers 20:8, God gave Moses and Aaron a clear instruction:

“You and Aaron must take the staff and assemble the entire community. As the people watch, speak to the rock over there, and it will pour out its water. You will provide enough water from the rock to satisfy the whole community and their livestock.”

However, when the moment came, Moses did something different:

“Then Moses raised his hand and struck the rock twice with the staff, and water gushed out. So the entire community and their livestock drank their fill.” (Numbers 20:11)

Water still flowed, and the people were satisfied, but God’s response was serious:

“But the Lord said to Moses and Aaron, ‘Because you did not trust Me enough to demonstrate My holiness to the people of Israel, you will not lead them into the land I am giving them!’” (Numbers 20:12)

After leading Israel faithfully for decades, Moses and Aaron were denied entry into the Promised Land. Why was God so displeased with Moses?

1. Disobedience to God’s Direct Command

God specifically told Moses to speak to the rock, but instead, he struck it—not once, but twice. This was not a minor detail; it was a direct disobedience to a clear command. Earlier in Exodus 17:6, God did command Moses to strike a rock for water, but this time, God wanted Moses to demonstrate a different kind of obedience—one of faith through words rather than action.

2. A Lack of Trust in God

God’s words make it clear: “Because you did not trust Me enough to demonstrate My holiness…” (Numbers 20:12). Moses took matters into his own hands, relying on what had worked in the past instead of trusting God’s new instructions. Leaders are held to a high standard of trust in God, and in this moment, Moses failed to fully rely on Him.

3. Taking Credit Instead of Giving God the Glory

Before striking the rock, Moses said:

“Listen, you rebels! Must we bring you water out of this rock?” (Numbers 20:10)

His words implied that he and Aaron were the ones providing water, rather than pointing the people back to God as the true provider. This misrepresentation took the glory away from God, who alone was performing the miracle.

4. Misrepresenting God’s Character

Moses acted in anger, calling the Israelites “rebels” and striking the rock forcefully. However, God wasn’t displaying anger at that moment—He was showing mercy by providing water for the people. As a leader, Moses’ frustration distorted the image of God’s grace, making it seem like God was reacting in wrath rather than compassion.

A Deeper Meaning: A Foreshadowing of Christ

This event also has a profound theological meaning. 1 Corinthians 10:4 tells us that the rock in the wilderness symbolized Christ:

“…for they drank from the spiritual rock that accompanied them, and that rock was Christ.”

In Exodus 17, Moses striking the rock foreshadowed Christ being struck once for our sins through His crucifixion. But in Numbers 20, the rock was only meant to be spoken to, symbolizing that after Christ’s sacrifice, we no longer need to “strike” Him again—He is always ready to respond when we call on Him.

By striking the rock twice, Moses disrupted this divine picture. His actions unintentionally obscured an important foreshadowing of Christ’s sufficiency and the power of faith-filled words.

Key Lessons for Us Today

  1. Obedience to God Matters—Even in Small Details
    • Sometimes, we think slight deviations from God’s instructions don’t matter, but this story reminds us that partial obedience is still disobedience.
  2. Trust God in Every Season
    • Just because something worked before doesn’t mean it’s how God wants to work now. We must always be sensitive to His leading.
  3. Give God the Glory
    • Any victory, miracle, or success should always point people back to God, never to ourselves.
  4. Represent God’s Character Accurately
    • If we are leaders or representatives of Christ, we must be careful not to misrepresent Him through frustration, pride, or anger.

Final Thoughts: Finishing Well Matters

Moses was a faithful servant of God, but this one moment cost him dearly. As we seek to follow God, let us learn from his mistake: obedience, trust, and humility before God are vital.

May we be people who listen carefully to God’s voice, trust Him fully, and give Him all the glory in our lives!

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