Chasing the One: Living the Mission of Jesus

Posted on April 19, 2025 by Mark Cole

“There is more joy in heaven over one lost sinner who repents and returns to God than over ninety-nine others who are righteous and haven’t strayed away.” — Luke 15:7 (NLT)

Jesus’ words here are both sobering and exhilarating. They remind us of the very heart of the gospel: God’s love for the one who is far away. In a world that celebrates success, fame, numbers, and growth, Jesus turns the spotlight to a single, broken heart turning back to God. Heaven erupts in joy—not over the crowds, but over the one.

The Heart of the Mission

If we ever wonder what drives the mission of the church, what fuels the calling of every believer, what compelled Jesus to leave heaven and walk among us—it’s this: to seek and to save the lost (Luke 19:10). Jesus didn’t come merely to gather the righteous. He came for those who knew they were sick, broken, wandering, and far from home.

And if that was His mission, then surely it must be ours too.

Jesus, the Seeker of the One

Jesus didn’t just preach about reaching the lost—He modeled it. Time and again, He left the crowd to minister to the individual. Here are just a few unforgettable examples:

  • The Samaritan Woman at the Well (John 4): Jesus crossed cultural and gender barriers to speak to a woman with a broken past. One encounter changed her life—and her whole village.
  • Zacchaeus the Tax Collector (Luke 19): Jesus called this dishonest, wealthy man down from a tree and into a transformed life. His mission was clear: “The Son of Man came to seek and save the lost.”
  • The Demon-Possessed Man (Mark 5): Jesus traveled across the lake through a storm to reach a tormented man living among the tombs. After healing him, Jesus left—His entire trip was for one soul.
  • The Woman Caught in Adultery (John 8): Jesus defended her from condemnation and restored her dignity. One gentle moment of grace changed her future.
  • The Thief on the Cross (Luke 23): Even as He was dying, Jesus extended mercy to a criminal who reached out in faith. One sentence—“Today you will be with Me in paradise”—opened the door to eternity.
  • Matthew the Tax Collector (Matthew 9): Jesus called a despised man with two words: “Follow Me.” That call led Matthew to leave everything behind—and it still echoes today.

Each of these encounters reminds us that Jesus notices the one. He listens, reaches out, and restores. If we want to walk in His steps, we must learn to do the same.

Do We Still Feel the Urgency?

In the busyness of church life—services, songs, rehearsals, meetings—it’s easy to focus on the 99. We love our congregations. We serve our teams. We disciple the faithful. And that’s good.

But do we still feel the weight of the one who is missing?

Do our hearts break for the lost in our neighborhoods, schools, cities, and yes—even in our churches?

How Can We Live This Out?

Here are five practical ways we can partner with Jesus in His mission to seek and save the lost:

  1. Pray daily for the lost. Ask God to put one or two names on your heart. Family, friends, neighbors. Pray specifically and persistently.
  2. Live with gospel intentionality. Look for opportunities to share your story and the hope of Jesus in natural, loving ways.
  3. Be present in your community. Join activities outside the church. Go where the lost are and bring light there.
  4. Welcome them into your circle. Invite people to church, to your home, or to lunch. Build relationships before preaching sermons.
  5. Keep the mission in your ministry. Whether you’re leading worship, teaching, serving, or playing pickleball, keep your eyes open for those who need Jesus.

Heaven’s Joy Is Our Goal

Jesus wasn’t exaggerating when He said there’s more joy in heaven over one lost soul returning. That’s the kind of celebration we want to provoke. Our goal isn’t just good services or solid theology. It’s transformation. It’s seeing prodigals come home. It’s joining the angels in heaven’s greatest celebration.

Let’s not settle for the ninety-nine alone. Let’s go after the one.

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When Angels Show Up

Posted on April 19, 2025 by Mark Cole

Have you ever had a moment in your life when you knew, without a doubt, that God was speaking to you? Maybe it was through Scripture, a word of encouragement, a dream, or a perfectly timed conversation. Throughout Scripture, one of the most fascinating ways God communicates is through angels.

Recently, as I was reading through the book of Judges, I was struck by the story of Manoah and his wife, the parents of Samson. Judges 13 tells us that “the angel of the Lord appeared” to Manoah’s wife and told her she would bear a son who would begin to deliver Israel from the Philistines. Later, when Manoah asks to meet the messenger again, the angel appears once more and confirms the message.

Then comes the awe-inspiring moment:

“As the flame blazed up from the altar toward heaven, the angel of the Lord ascended in the flame! Seeing this, Manoah and his wife fell with their faces to the ground.” (Judges 13:20)

Can you imagine that? A message from heaven, a miraculous sign, and then the angel ascends in the fire. No wonder they were overwhelmed! It’s one of the most dramatic angelic appearances in the Old Testament, and it reminds me that God sometimes chooses divine messengers to speak into very human situations.

Angels: Messengers of God’s Purposes

The word angel literally means messenger. In both the Old and New Testaments, angels appear to deliver God’s messages with clarity, urgency, and divine authority. Some messages are warnings. Some are announcements of miracles. Some provide comfort or strength in times of distress.

Here are just a few powerful examples:

  • Gabriel to Mary – “You will conceive and give birth to a son…” (Luke 1:31)
  • Angel to Zechariah – “Your prayer has been heard. Your wife Elizabeth will bear you a son.” (Luke 1:13)
  • Angels to the shepherds – “I bring you good news of great joy…” (Luke 2:10)
  • Angel to Joseph in a dream – “Do not be afraid to take Mary as your wife…” (Matthew 1:20)
  • An angel strengthening Jesus in the Garden of Gethsemane (Luke 22:43)

In every case, the angel is not the focus—the message is. And behind the message is the heart of a God who is involved, intentional, and full of grace.

Are Angels Still at Work Today?

While we may not see angels ascend in the fire or appear in physical form very often, Scripture tells us that angels are still active:

“Are not all angels ministering spirits sent to serve those who will inherit salvation?” (Hebrews 1:14)

Sometimes the message comes through a person, sometimes through a dream, and yes—sometimes even through an angelic visitation. I’ve heard many testimonies over the years from trustworthy people who sensed they were being helped, guided, or protected in supernatural ways.

As a worship leader and pastor, I’ve found that God often speaks in the early quiet moments when I’m alone with Him reading the Word—when my heart is still, my distractions are few, and I’m listening with a posture of surrender. His messages come through the pages of Scripture, a gentle prompting, or a sudden insight that brings clarity and peace.

Responding Like Manoah and His Wife

What I love about Manoah and his wife is their humble, reverent response. They didn’t try to explain it away. They didn’t boast. They bowed. Their reaction reminds me that when God speaks—whether through an angel, His Word, or a whisper to our hearts—the right response is always worship, awe, and obedience.

Let’s be people who listen. Who expect God to speak. Who receive His messages with open hearts. And like Manoah and his wife, who fall on our faces when the glory of God shows up.

Have you ever experienced a moment where you felt God sent a message—through a person, a dream, a Scripture, or even something more mysterious? I’d love to hear your story in the comments.

Let’s keep listening for His voice.

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Are You Still Making a Difference?

Posted on April 18, 2025 by Mark Cole

“Salt is good for seasoning. But if it loses its flavor, how do you make it salty again? Flavorless salt is good neither for the soil nor for the manure pile. It is thrown away. Anyone with ears to hear should listen and understand!”
—Luke 14:34–35 (NLT)

Jesus often used everyday metaphors to convey deep spiritual truths—and this one about salt hits home.

Salt, in the ancient world, was incredibly valuable. It flavored food, preserved meat, purified wounds, and in some cases, was even used as a fertilizer. Salt had purpose. Salt made a difference.

But here, Jesus delivers a challenging word: If salt loses its flavor, it’s useless.

This isn’t just a comment about table seasoning—it’s a warning about spiritual effectiveness. The question He raises is piercing:
Are you still making a difference?

Salt That’s Lost Its Flavor

This teaching comes directly after Jesus speaks of the high cost of discipleship. He says things like:

  • “If you want to be My disciple, you must carry your cross…”
  • “You must count the cost…”
  • “You must love Me above all else…”

Then He drops this: “Salt is good—but if it loses its flavor, what’s the point?”

Jesus is drawing a clear line. A disciple who has lost their spiritual edge, who no longer influences, who no longer lives distinctively—is like flavorless salt.
Not only ineffective, but discarded.

That’s a serious warning for worship leaders, pastors, volunteers, and any follower of Christ. We are meant to be salty: full of godly influence, spiritual vitality, and heavenly purpose.

What Does It Mean to Be “Salty” in a Spiritual Sense?

1. You Live with Distinction

Salt is noticeable. It enhances. It preserves. As believers, we are called to be different from the world—not weird or self-righteous, but graciously set apart. Your joy, peace, love, and convictions should point people to Jesus.

2. You Carry Your Cross

Being salty means we’ve counted the cost and are following Jesus with everything we’ve got. It’s a daily decision to surrender. Discipleship isn’t a part-time gig—it’s a full-life call.

3. You Influence Others

Just as salt touches everything it’s sprinkled on, your presence should impact your family, your church, your small group, your workplace, your worship team. You are there to season, preserve, and reflect the love of Christ.

How Do We Lose Our Saltiness?

  • When compromise replaces conviction
  • When comfort replaces calling
  • When passivity replaces passion
  • When we stop pressing in and start coasting spiritually

None of us are immune to this drift. That’s why Jesus ends His statement with:

“Anyone with ears to hear should listen and understand!”

How to Regain Your Saltiness

If you feel like your spiritual edge has dulled, there’s hope. Jesus is the restorer of broken things.

  • Repent and realign. Be honest with God and let Him reignite the fire.
  • Renew your passion and love for God. Spend time in worship and the Word, not just out of habit, but out of hunger. Let your heart be stirred again by who He is.
  • Recommit to His Word. Let Scripture sharpen and shape your heart.
  • Reengage with the mission. Step out, serve, pray, lead, and love again.
  • Reconnect with the Spirit. Let Him fill and empower you daily.

You don’t have to stay stale. You can be seasoned again.

Final Thoughts

There’s a world that desperately needs believers who are making a difference. Not blending in, but standing out in love, truth, and purpose.

Let’s be the salt Jesus was talking about. Let’s stay spiritually sharp, passionately committed, and joyfully surrendered.

Don’t fade. Don’t coast. Don’t lose your flavor.
You were made to make a difference.

Reflection Questions:

  1. Is there any area of my life where I’ve started to “blend in” rather than stand out?
  2. What spiritual habit do I need to return to?
  3. Who in my life needs to be seasoned by my influence?

If this message spoke to you, feel free to share it or leave a comment below. Let’s encourage one another to stay salty—and keep making a Kingdom difference.

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God Sees More in You Than You See in Yourself

Posted on April 18, 2025 by Mark Cole

Lessons from the Life of Jephthah (Judges 11)

“Now Jephthah the Gileadite was a mighty warrior. His father was Gilead; his mother was a prostitute.” — Judges 11:1

Have you ever felt overlooked, disqualified, or labeled by something in your past? If so, you’re in good company. The story of Jephthah in Judges 11 shows us that God often calls the most unlikely people for His greatest purposes.

Jephthah wasn’t born into privilege or favor. He was the son of a prostitute and was driven out of his home by his half-brothers. His own family said, “You don’t belong.” But Scripture introduces him not by his shame, but by his strength: “Jephthah was a mighty warrior.”

Here are a few powerful lessons from his life that can speak to you—especially if you’ve ever felt like you’re not enough.

1. God Defines You, Not Your Past

Jephthah’s beginnings were messy. He was rejected because of something he couldn’t control—his parentage. But God doesn’t define people by their origin stories. He looks deeper. Jephthah may have been seen as illegitimate by others, but in God’s eyes, he was a leader in the making.

If you’ve ever felt like your past limits your future, take courage: God sees more in you than you see in yourself.

2. Rejection Can Be Preparation

Jephthah fled to the land of Tob and surrounded himself with a group of outcasts. That season—though painful—shaped him into a fighter, a leader, and a man of courage. Then, when Israel found themselves in crisis, they came back to him and asked him to lead.

What man rejects, God redirects.

If you’ve been sidelined or pushed away, don’t let bitterness take root. Let God shape you in the shadows, so you’re ready when your time comes.

3. Bold Faith Needs Godly Wisdom

Jephthah made a rash vow to God: “If You give me victory, I’ll sacrifice whatever comes out of my house to greet me.” That vow led to tragic consequences—possibly the loss of his daughter (Judges 11:30–39).

This reminds us that passion for God must be paired with wisdom and a knowledge of His heart. Zeal is beautiful, but wisdom sustains it.

Leadership is more than boldness—it’s knowing God’s voice, God’s Word, and God’s ways.

4. God Honors Faith, Even in Flawed People

Despite his troubled start and mistakes along the way, Jephthah ends up in Hebrews 11—the “Hall of Faith.” Why? Because at the end of the day, he believed God.

“And what more shall I say? I do not have time to tell about Gideon, Barak, Samson and Jephthah…” (Hebrews 11:32)

That verse tells us something huge: your faith matters more than your flaws.

Takeaways for You Today

  • Don’t count yourself out. If God calls you, He’ll equip you.
  • Let rejection refine you, not define you. What people meant for evil, God can use for good.
  • Walk humbly. Lead with both courage and wisdom.
  • Keep believing. Your faith may not be perfect, but God honors those who trust Him.

A Final Word

If you’re leading in ministry, serving in worship, or just trying to follow Jesus faithfully, don’t let your past—or anyone else’s opinion—keep you from walking in God’s purpose. Like Jephthah, you may not have had the cleanest start, but your story isn’t over. And the Author of your story sees far more in you than you could ever imagine.

God sees more in you than you see in yourself.

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The Power of Humility in a World That Celebrates Ego

Posted on April 17, 2025 by Mark Cole

“For all those who exalt themselves will be humbled, and those who humble themselves will be exalted.” — Luke 14:11 (NIV)

Jesus never minced words when it came to the heart posture He looks for in His followers. In Luke 14, after watching guests scramble for the best seats at a dinner party, He told a parable with a punch: Don’t take the place of honor—take the lowest place. Why? Because the Kingdom of God operates on a completely different value system than the world.

What Humility Is—And Isn’t

Humility isn’t self-deprecation. It’s not about pretending you’re less gifted or less valuable than you really are. Humility is seeing yourself clearly in light of who God is. It’s acknowledging that everything we are and everything we have is a gift from Him. It’s remembering that our talents, our platforms, and even our spiritual maturity are not badges of superiority, but tools to serve others.

Humility says, “It’s not about me.” It doesn’t demand attention. It doesn’t compete for recognition. Instead, it points others to Jesus.

Humility in Worship Leadership

As a worship leader, musician, or pastor, you walk a tightrope. You’re visible, upfront, and often admired. But the moment we begin to believe we deserve that spotlight, we step into dangerous territory. I’ve seen it in myself—and I’ve watched it subtly derail ministries.

Humility in worship looks like:

  • Serving your team before serving your own preferences.
  • Celebrating others’ talents without feeling threatened.
  • Taking feedback without defensiveness.
  • Making room for new, less experienced team members to grow.
  • Remembering that the goal is not a perfect performance but God’s glory.

Jesus’ Model of Humility

Philippians 2 says Jesus “made Himself nothing… taking the nature of a servant.” If the Son of God knelt to wash feet, we can lead from our knees too.

Jesus didn’t seek platforms—He sought people. He didn’t fight for prestige—He poured out His life. And what did the Father do? He exalted Him to the highest place (Phil. 2:9). That’s the principle of the Kingdom: humility precedes honor.

Leading from a Low Place

A few questions for reflection:

  • Do I crave affirmation more than I crave God’s approval?
  • Am I as eager to serve behind the scenes as I am to lead from the front?
  • When I succeed, do I give God the credit—or quietly keep the glory?

A Prayer for Humility

Lord, keep me grounded in Your grace. Help me lead with an awareness of my dependence on You. Let my life, my music, my leadership—all of it—point people to You and not to me. May I remember that the way up in Your Kingdom always begins with humility.

Final Thoughts

True humility doesn’t limit us—it frees us. It invites God to work through us, because we’re no longer in His way. As worship leaders, pastors, and believers, may we walk humbly with our God, knowing that He sees, He honors, and He exalts those who serve from the shadows.

Let’s be people who lead from a place of humility and grace.

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The Kind of Faith that Pleases God

Posted on April 17, 2025 by Mark Cole

Verse of the Day:
“And without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to Him must believe that He exists and that He rewards those who earnestly seek Him.”
— Hebrews 11:6 (NIV)

One of the most profound truths in the Bible is tucked right into the heart of Hebrews 11—the great chapter on faith. This verse has both inspired and challenged me:

“Without faith it is impossible to please God…”

That’s a strong word: impossible. Not “unlikely.” Not “difficult.” But impossible. In other words, it doesn’t matter how talented we are, how many songs we know, how many services we’ve led, or even how sincere our hearts are—without faith, we miss the mark when it comes to truly pleasing God.

That sobers me. But it also motivates me.

Faith: The Starting Point

Hebrews 11:6 tells us that we must first believe that God exists. This is foundational. It’s more than just believing in God—it’s choosing to believe He is real, He is present, and He is active.

And let’s be honest—sometimes that’s a fight. Especially when prayers seem delayed, when challenges feel overwhelming, or when our emotions run dry. But the life of a worshiper begins with a deep-rooted belief that God is here, and He is listening.

A Personal Faith Testimony

I have always known that God was at work in my life.
I have always known that He was doing greater things with my life than I could.
I have always had an abiding peace that He would come through in the toughest of situations.

That doesn’t mean it’s always been easy. But deep down, I’ve known—God is real.
And more than that, I’ve seen again and again that He rewards.

Not just with things, but with His presence, His provision, and His peace. I know He exists. I know He sees. And I know He honors those who seek Him.

The Reward of Seeking

The second part of the verse brings hope to weary hearts:

“…and that He rewards those who earnestly seek Him.”

God is a Rewarder. That’s part of His nature.

He rewards those who don’t give up.
He rewards those who press in.
He rewards those who worship when it’s hard.
He rewards those who show up early to rehearse, who serve behind the scenes, who choose love over pride, and who live with hearts turned toward Him.

The reward may not always come the way we expect it—there may not be applause, recognition, or even visible results right away—but there is a deep, lasting reward that comes from living a life of faith: God’s pleasure. His nearness. His joy over us.

Living (and Leading) by Faith

For those of us who lead worship or serve in ministry, this verse is especially timely.

Faith isn’t just for getting saved.
It’s not just for “spiritual emergencies.”
Faith is how we live—and how we lead.

It’s faith that lets us sing when the congregation is silent.
It’s faith that lets us speak truth even when culture pushes back.
It’s faith that keeps us steady when the platform feels shaky and the future uncertain.

How to Build a Life of Faith

Here are a few practical ways to lean into this kind of faith:

  • Start your day with Him—every day. Not just in duty, but in pursuit.
  • Speak truth out loud when doubt whispers.
  • Remember what God has done in the past—keep a journal of answered prayer.
  • Surround yourself with faith-filled people who stir your belief, not drain it.
  • Lead from overflow, not empty performance. Faith is contagious.

Final Thoughts

I want to live a life that pleases God.

That won’t come from perfection, performance, or popularity—but from faith.

Believing He’s real.
Seeking Him earnestly.
Trusting that He rewards us with Himself.

So wherever you are in your journey—on a stage, in a prayer closet, or just trying to keep your heart soft—keep the faith.

God is watching. And He is pleased.

Let’s talk: Leave a comment or send me a message—I’d love to hear your story.

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Fighting for the Door That Leads to Life

Posted on April 16, 2025 by Mark Cole

Luke 13:24 and the Call to Wholehearted Discipleship

“Work hard to enter the narrow door to God’s Kingdom, for many will try to enter but will fail.”
—Luke 13:24 (NLT)

This is one of Jesus’ more sobering teachings. He doesn’t say, “Try your best,” or “Just believe and relax.” Instead, He says, “Work hard.” The Greek word used here is agonizomai, which means to strive, struggle, or contend like an athlete or soldier. That’s serious language.

What Is the Narrow Door?

The “narrow door” is Jesus Himself. In John 10:9, He says, “I am the door; if anyone enters through Me, he will be saved.” The door isn’t narrow because God is trying to exclude people—it’s narrow because the way to life requires surrender, repentance, humility, and obedience. It’s narrow because not everything can pass through it: not pride, not sin, not self-will.

In a world full of wide, easy roads—where truth is relative and self is supreme—Jesus calls us to a different path. A path that’s less traveled. One that calls for dying to ourselves daily (Luke 9:23) and walking in step with the Spirit.

“Work Hard” Doesn’t Mean “Earn It”

We know from Scripture that we are saved by grace through faith (Ephesians 2:8–9). So what does Jesus mean by “work hard”? He’s telling us to take our spiritual life seriously. This is not a passive relationship; it’s a journey that demands intentionality, perseverance, and focus.

Many will try to enter, Jesus says, “but will fail.” Why? Because they want the benefits of the Kingdom—peace, heaven, blessing—without the King. They want the crown without the cross.

The Danger of Comfortable Christianity

We live in an age where comfort and convenience shape almost every part of our lives. Sadly, this has crept into our faith as well. Comfortable Christianity says:

  • “Don’t push too hard.”
  • “You don’t need to change; just believe.”
  • “God wants you to be happy more than holy.”

But the gospel calls us to die to self, to take up our cross, and to follow Jesus in obedience. That’s not comfortable. But it is the way to freedom, life, and fruitfulness.

How Did the Early Church Understand This?

The early Church Fathers didn’t treat this verse lightly. Here’s how they viewed it:

  • Origen (3rd century) wrote, “Few are they who enter the narrow door because few are they who truly turn from sin with their whole heart.”
  • Cyril of Alexandria said that striving to enter the narrow door means “casting away laziness and indifference, and training ourselves in the fear of God.”
  • John Chrysostom, one of the most powerful preachers in early Christianity, warned that outward association with the church is not enough. He said, “It is not enough to have been in the house; it is necessary to labor to be found worthy.”

These early voices remind us that salvation is not a matter of church attendance or head knowledge, but of a transformed life marked by deep devotion to Jesus.

So How Do We Strive?

Here are some practical ways to live out this command:

  • Daily surrender to Jesus. Ask Him to lead your thoughts, words, and actions.
  • Repent quickly when you fall short. Keep short accounts with God.
  • Immerse yourself in Scripture. Let God’s Word shape your worldview.
  • Pray earnestly. Not just with routine words, but with a heart hungry for God.
  • Fellowship with believers who challenge and encourage you to grow.
  • Guard your heart. Stay alert to compromise, apathy, and pride.

Final Thoughts

Jesus isn’t trying to scare us—He’s trying to wake us up. The Kingdom of God is the most valuable treasure we could ever find (Matthew 13:44), and it’s worth striving for with all we’ve got.

Don’t be discouraged by the narrowness. Be encouraged that the door is open. Jesus is inviting you in—not by performance, but by faith-filled obedience. He will give you the strength to strive, the grace to endure, and the joy of walking closely with Him.

So let’s fight—not against people, but against our own complacency. Let’s fight for the door that leads to life.

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The Danger of Forgetting God

Posted on April 16, 2025 by Mark Cole

“They forgot the Lord their God, who had rescued them from all their enemies surrounding them.” – Judges 8:34 (NL

One of the saddest patterns repeated throughout the Old Testament is this: God’s people would experience His powerful deliverance, His miraculous provision, His overwhelming goodness… and then forget.

They forgot the One who rescued them.
They forgot the One who gave them victory.
They forgot the One who led them, fed them, and loved them.

And before we point fingers at ancient Israel, let’s pause and recognize: this is our story too.

A Human Problem

The book of Judges chronicles a tragic cycle—rebellion, rescue, restoration… then forgetfulness. In Judges 8:34, it says, “They forgot the Lord their God, who had rescued them from all their enemies surrounding them.”

How does that even happen?
How do people forget the God who just saved them?

Here’s the truth: Forgetting God doesn’t happen in one dramatic moment. It’s usually slow… subtle… like a slow leak in a tire. Over time, our memory fades and we drift.

We get busy. We get distracted. We get comfortable.

Signs We May Be Forgetting God

Here are a few warning signs:

  • Prayer becomes optional or rare.
  • The Bible collects dust or becomes a duty.
  • Gratitude dries up.
  • We rely more on our own strength and less on God’s.
  • Worship feels hollow or distant.
  • Sin doesn’t grieve us like it used to.

If we’re honest, we’ve all been there. Even mature believers can slide into spiritual forgetfulness.

Why Remembering Matters

Throughout Scripture, God continually calls His people to remember:

“Remember the Lord your God, for it is He who gives you the ability to produce wealth…” (Deut. 8:18)
“Remember the wonders He has done…” (Psalm 105:5)

Why does God emphasize remembering? Because remembering reorients our hearts. It restores humility. It reignites gratitude. It leads us back to trust and obedience.

How to Stay Spiritually Remembering

So how do we fight the drift? How do we overcome spiritual amnesia? Here are some practices that have helped me:

1. Daily Devotion

Start each day with intentional time in God’s Word and prayer. It’s not about checking off a box—it’s about connection and realignment. When we start the day remembering who He is, it shapes everything.

2. Thanksgiving Journals

Write down something every day that you’re thankful to God for. Big or small. This cultivates a grateful heart and keeps you mindful of God’s hand in your life.

3. Tell the Stories

Talk about what God has done in your life—around the dinner table, with your children, or in your small group. Testimonies are memory fuel.

4. Worship Regularly

Not just on Sundays. Fill your home and car with worship. Let the songs you sing declare truth over your heart and circumstances.

5. Sabbath and Reflection

Take time weekly to stop and reflect. What has God done this week? Where did you see Him at work? Reflection helps us re-center.

6. Spiritual Markers

Just as Israel set up stones of remembrance (Joshua 4), we can create our own. Journals, framed verses, photos from mission trips, or moments of breakthrough—visual reminders of God’s faithfulness.

A Final Encouragement

If you’ve found yourself forgetting God, don’t stay stuck in guilt. His mercy is fresh today. Return to Him. Remember what He’s done. Stir your heart again.

Because remembering God isn’t just about recalling facts—it’s about rekindling love.

Let’s be a people who don’t forget.
Let’s live in daily awe of the God who rescues, restores, and walks with us.

Question for Reflection:
What’s one thing God has done for you in the past year that you never want to forget?

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Why Doesn’t God Always Heal?

Posted on April 15, 2025 by Mark Cole

A Biblical Reflection on Unanswered Prayers for Healing

One of the hardest and most heartfelt questions we face as followers of Jesus is:

“If we pray in Jesus’ name, why aren’t all the sick healed?”

This is not just a theological issue — it’s deeply personal.

As someone who has been in ministry for decades, I’ve seen the power of God at work. I’ve personally witnessed hundreds of people healed — some instantly, others gradually — and I’ve experienced healing in my own life. I believe in praying bold prayers in Jesus’ name.

And yet, I’ve also prayed for many who weren’t healed. Some of them were people I was very close to. Like many of you, I’ve asked why?

Let’s look honestly — and biblically — at this tension.

1. God Is Still the Healer

Let’s start with what hasn’t changed:
God still heals. Jesus is the same yesterday, today, and forever (Hebrews 13:8). Healing was part of His ministry, and the early church carried that same power in His name.

I’ve seen it. Many of you have, too. But when healing doesn’t come the way we hope, we must keep our eyes on what Scripture shows us — and what it doesn’t promise.

2. God’s Purposes Are Sometimes Beyond Our Understanding

“The secret things belong to the Lord our God…” (Deuteronomy 29:29)

Sometimes, even with faith-filled prayer, God chooses not to heal — or not yet. Even Paul, who regularly saw miracles, wasn’t healed of his own affliction. He pleaded with God three times and heard this:

“My grace is sufficient for you, for My power is made perfect in weakness.” (2 Corinthians 12:9)

Healing wasn’t withheld because of unbelief — but because of a greater purpose in Paul’s life and ministry.

3. We Live in the ‘Already, But Not Yet’

The Kingdom of God is here — but not in its fullness. Jesus brought healing, deliverance, and resurrection, but we still live in a broken world.

“We groan inwardly as we wait eagerly for…the redemption of our bodies.” (Romans 8:23)

Even in the early church, not everyone was healed. Timothy had stomach problems. Paul left Trophimus sick in Miletus (2 Tim. 4:20). God’s kingdom has come — but we’re still waiting for its full arrival.

4. Sometimes Healing Is Delayed, Not Denied

There are times when healing doesn’t happen instantly, but later. Lazarus was allowed to die, only to be raised by Jesus for the glory of God (John 11:4). The man at the temple gate had been crippled for decades — but was healed after Jesus’ resurrection through Peter and John (Acts 3:2–10).

God’s timeline is not always our timeline. That doesn’t mean the answer is “no.” It might just be “not yet.”

5. Faith Matters — But Grace Matters More

Yes, Jesus occasionally connected healing to faith:

“Your faith has made you well.” (Mark 5:34)

And in one town:

“He did not do many miracles there because of their lack of faith.” (Matthew 13:58)

But even here, we must be cautious. Jesus never turned away someone who came sincerely. He healed crowds who didn’t even know who He was. We never want to place the burden of healing on the sick person’s shoulders.

Faith opens the door, but grace brings the healing.

6. Ultimate Healing Is Still Coming

Even those who were healed by Jesus eventually died. Earthly healing is temporary. Resurrection is eternal.

“He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain…” (Revelation 21:4)

Every believer will be healed — either in this life or the next. That hope anchors us in the middle of our unanswered prayers.

So How Should We Pray?

We pray like Jesus and the early church:

  • With faith, knowing God still heals.
  • With compassion, not condemnation.
  • With trust, even when we don’t understand.
  • With hope, looking forward to the day when all pain is gone.

I’ve seen God move. I’ve also sat with people who didn’t receive their healing — at least not yet. And in both moments, I’ve known this to be true:

God is still good. God is still with us. And healing is still part of His story.

So don’t stop praying. Don’t stop believing.
Because one day, the final word will be life.

Posted in Bible, Church, God, Healing, Health, Jesus, Wisdom | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | 4 Comments

Jesus’ Thoughts On Your Priorities

Posted on April 14, 2025 by Mark Cole

“Seek the Kingdom of God above all else, and He will give you everything you need.” — Luke 12:31 (NLT)

Jesus had a way of getting right to the heart of the matter. In just one sentence, He addresses two of life’s biggest questions:
What should be my top priority?
And how will I have what I need?

His answer is simple but powerful: “Seek the Kingdom of God above all else.”
And the promise that follows? “He will give you everything you need.”

What Matters Most?

We live in a culture that pulls us in a hundred directions. Success, comfort, image, influence, security — all of these clamor for first place. But Jesus makes it clear:
The Kingdom comes first.
Everything else comes second.

That means putting God’s rule and reign — His values, His purposes, His presence — at the very center of your life. When your priorities line up with His, the rest falls into place.

A Kingdom-First Lifestyle

So what does that actually look like?

  • It’s beginning each day with a heart tuned to God — in prayer, in the Word, and in surrender.
  • It’s letting God’s Spirit shape how you speak, how you lead, how you handle money, how you respond to pressure.
  • It’s choosing to serve rather than be served, to give rather than consume, to build others rather than promote yourself.

When Jesus says “above all else,” He’s not asking for one more item on our to-do list. He’s inviting us to build everything around the Kingdom — our schedule, our finances, our dreams, our families, our ministries.

Provision Follows Priority

Here’s the good news: when you put God first, He takes care of what you need.

It’s not a formula. It’s a relationship with a faithful Father who sees, knows, and loves you. Jesus goes on to say:

“So don’t be afraid, little flock. For it gives your Father great happiness to give you the Kingdom.” — Luke 12:32

God isn’t holding back. He’s not reluctant. It makes Him happy to provide for His kids. If you’ve been feeling anxious or stretched thin, maybe it’s time to realign your priorities and let Him take care of the outcome.

A Personal Reflection

Over the years, Anna and I have had moments when we weren’t sure how things would work out — financially, in ministry, or in major decisions. But as we prayed and put God first, we watched Him open doors, meet needs, and surprise us with His provision. He really is faithful.

We’ve never regretted seeking the Kingdom first. Not once.

A Few Practical Next Steps

Want to live this out this week? Try this:

  • Begin your day by asking: “God, what does your Kingdom look like in my life today?”
  • Re-evaluate your weekly schedule: Are Kingdom values front and center?
  • Look at your giving: Are you trusting Him in this area too?
  • Trust Him with the thing you’re anxious about. Take it to Him — and leave it there.

Final Thought

Jesus cares deeply about your priorities. He knows that when you chase the Kingdom, everything else finds its right place. And He promises: “You’ll have what you need.”

So today, let’s stop striving and start seeking.
Kingdom first — always.

What are some ways you’ve learned to put God’s Kingdom first in your life? I’d love to hear in the comments below.

Posted in Bible, God, Jesus, Leadership, Wisdom, Worship | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment