How to Become a Better Singer in 14 Days

Posted on April 5, 2025 by Mark Cole

Can you really become a better singer in just 14 days?

Absolutely. While you won’t turn into Whitney Houston or Andrea Bocelli overnight, you can make significant progress with focused, daily effort. Whether you’re preparing for a performance, joining a worship team, or just want to enjoy singing more confidently, these next two weeks can be a game-changer for your voice.

🎯 Daily Essentials: Your Non-Negotiables

Every day, set aside 30–45 minutes for the following:

  • 🎤 Vocal Warm-Ups (10–15 min): Lip trills, sirens, humming, five-tone scales
  • 🫁 Breath Control (5–10 min): Diaphragmatic breathing, slow inhales, “ssss” exhales
  • 🎵 Pitch Accuracy (10 min): Match pitch with piano or app, scales, and melodic patterns
  • 🎶 Song Practice (15–20 min): Focus on melody, phrasing, tone, and expression

🗓️ The 14-Day Singing Plan

Day 1–3: Build the Foundation

  • Work on breath support and posture
  • Sing simple songs you know well
  • Record yourself and listen kindly!

Day 4–6: Find Your Tone

  • Relax jaw, neck, and shoulders
  • Use “ng” humming and forward placement
  • Sing with clarity and projection

Day 7: Mini Performance Day

  • Perform a short song just for yourself
  • Record and reflect on your progress

Day 8–10: Add Emotion and Dynamics

  • Get louder/softer as the song requires
  • Add feeling and tell the story through your voice

Day 11–13: Power and Control

  • Add power using “Nay-nay-nay” and “Mum-mum-mum”
  • Blend chest and head voice smoothly

Day 14: Your Showcase Performance

  • Perform a full song with confidence
  • Record it — then compare to Day 1. You’ll be amazed!

💡 Pro Tips for Even Faster Progress

  • Hydrate constantly — your cords need moisture!
  • Get good sleep
  • Avoid shouting or whispering
  • Keep good posture
  • Listen to great singers and learn from them

🎁 Bonus: Want a Personalized Plan?

Everyone’s voice is different. If you’d like help choosing songs or warm-ups that fit your range and style, reach out — I’d love to help.

Your voice is an instrument, and you can improve it. Be consistent, sing boldly, and enjoy the journey!

Happy singing!

📥 Download the PDF version of this plan

Posted in Entertainment, Exercise, Health, Music, Worship | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

When Secrets Are No Longer Secrets

Posted on April 4, 2025 by Mark Cole

Luke 8:17 (NLT) – “For all that is secret will eventually be brought into the open, and everything that is concealed will be brought to light and made known to all”

We live in a world obsessed with appearances. Carefully curated social media profiles, polished presentations, and public platforms make it easy to live one way on the outside while hiding another story on the inside. But Jesus reminds us that nothing stays hidden forever.

His words in Luke 8:17 are both a warning and a comfort—especially to those of us who serve in ministry.

1. A Sobering Warning

Jesus says this immediately after the parable of the sower—a teaching all about how we receive and respond to the Word of God. The implication is clear: our response to God’s truth will eventually be revealed.

The fruit—or lack of it—won’t stay hidden.

This is especially sobering for leaders. We’ve all seen headlines of respected pastors or worship leaders whose private lives eventually unraveled their public ministries. The warning is not about failure—God’s grace is more than enough for that. It’s about secrecy.

God doesn’t bless cover-ups—He blesses confession, humility, and truth.

If we ignore the quiet promptings of the Spirit today, we may face the louder consequences tomorrow.

2. An Encouragement for the Faithful

At the same time, this verse is deeply encouraging. For those who are quietly faithful—serving behind the scenes, living with integrity, sowing in tears—it’s a promise:

God sees. And He will reveal.

What you’ve done in secret, He will one day reward in the open.

Perhaps you’re in a season where no one notices your effort, your obedience, or your late-night prayers. Maybe you’ve prepared worship sets, discipled others, or served in ways that didn’t get applause. Jesus says: Nothing is wasted. Nothing is forgotten. It will all come to light.

3. Live in the Light Now

Jesus doesn’t say that secrets might come out. He says they will.

So here’s the invitation: Don’t wait for exposure—choose to walk in the light now.

  • Bring your heart before the Lord daily.
  • Confess sin quickly and honestly.
  • Surround yourself with people who love you enough to tell you the truth.
  • Let God’s Word examine your motives, not just your behavior.

1 John 1:7 tells us:

“If we walk in the light as He is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus purifies us from all sin.”

Walking in the light brings freedom, not fear. That’s the grace of the gospel.

4. Application for Worship Leaders and Ministry Teams

If you’re involved in worship, teaching, or any form of leadership—this matters more than ever.

  • Your gifting might open doors, but your character keeps them open.
  • Don’t confuse public ministry with private maturity.
  • Choose to be the same person on stage, in meetings, and at home.

If your team culture is one of honesty, openness, and grace, you’ll thrive—not only musically but spiritually. And if you’re leading others, model this kind of integrity. Your team will follow your example far more than your instructions.

Final Thoughts

Jesus’ words in Luke 8:17 are not designed to shame us—but to free us.
They remind us to stop pretending and start walking in truth.

The world may be impressed with performance, but Jesus treasures authenticity.
Let’s live and lead in such a way that if everything were brought into the light tomorrow, we’d have nothing to hide—and everything to give thanks for.

Let’s walk in the light together.

– Mark

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

A Life Well Lived: Choosing What Matters Most

Posted on April 4, 2025 by Mark Cole

“You can make this choice by loving the Lord your God, obeying Him, and committing yourself firmly to Him. This is the key to your life.” – Deuteronomy 30:20 (NLT)

What makes a life truly well lived?

Is it a list of achievements, the wealth we’ve gathered, the places we’ve been, or even the legacy we leave behind? These all have value—but in Deuteronomy, Moses narrows it down to one profound truth: The key to your life is loving God, obeying Him, and staying committed to Him.

In other words, a life well lived is not complicated—it’s deeply rooted in a relationship with God.

1. Loving the Lord Your God

This is the foundation. It’s not about religion or rules, but about relationship. Loving God means walking daily in conversation with Him, trusting Him when life is uncertain, and pursuing His heart above all else.

Jesus reaffirmed this in Matthew 22:37 when He said the greatest commandment is to “love the Lord your God with all your heart, soul, and mind.” Everything flows from this—our joy, our identity, our purpose.

Ask yourself often: Do I love Him more than anything or anyone else? A life well lived begins with loving God.

2. Obeying His Voice

In today’s crazy world, obeying God’s voice requires intentional listening. His Word gives us wisdom, correction, encouragement, and direction. Obedience isn’t about fear-based compliance—it’s about walking in alignment with the One who knows what’s best for us.

God’s commands are not burdensome—they’re life-giving. Jesus said, “If you love Me, you will keep My commandments.” (John 14:15)

Each time we obey, even when it’s difficult, we plant seeds that grow into peace, integrity, and purpose.

3. Committing Yourself Firmly to Him

Life comes with seasons—mountaintops and valleys, joy and grief, clarity and confusion. What sustains us through all of it is commitment. A deep, settled decision that says: “I will follow Jesus, no matter what.”

This is more than just church attendance or spiritual disciplines (though those are important). It’s about being anchored to God through every season. When others drift, when culture shifts, when storms hit—you remain faithful.

Paul wrote near the end of his life: “I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.” (2 Timothy 4:7) That’s the testimony of a life well lived.

The Key to Your Life

Moses said it clearly: This is the key to your life. Not success. Not safety. Not being liked by everyone. The key is relationship with God. That’s what gives life meaning now, and hope for eternity.

So whether you’re 17 or 70, it’s never too early—or too late—to choose what matters most.

Choose life. Choose love. Choose obedience. Choose commitment.

That’s a life well lived.

Posted in Bible, God, Health, Holy Spirit, Jesus, Leadership, Wisdom | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

Are God’s Promises of OT Blessing for Israel Still Relevant for Followers of Jesus Today?

Posted on April 3, 2025 by Mark Cole

God’s promises to Israel in the Old Testament are filled with amazing blessings for those who obey and serve Him with joy. One of the most powerful statements in Deuteronomy 28:6 says:

“Wherever you go and whatever you do, you will be blessed.”

This raises an important question: Do these blessings apply to present-day followers of Jesus? And if so, in what way?

1. The Principle of Blessing Through Obedience Still Stands

Deuteronomy 28 was given to Israel under the Old Covenant, but the principle behind it remains true for believers today. Throughout Scripture, we see that God blesses those who walk in obedience and trust Him:

  • “Blessed is the one who does not walk in step with the wicked… but whose delight is in the law of the Lord… Whatever they do prospers.” (Psalm 1:1-3)
  • “Whoever has My commands and keeps them is the one who loves Me… and I too will love them and show Myself to them.” (John 14:21)

While the Old Testament blessings often focused on material prosperity, the New Testament shifts the focus toward spiritual blessings that have eternal value.

2. Spiritual Blessings in Christ (Ephesians 1:3)

Unlike Israel’s covenant, which emphasized land, physical security, and prosperity, the New Testament highlights blessings in Christ:

  • Forgiveness and Salvation (Ephesians 1:7)
  • The Presence of the Holy Spirit (John 14:16-17)
  • Peace that surpasses understanding (Philippians 4:7)
  • Fruitfulness in life and ministry (John 15:5)

While God may still bless us materially, the true riches are found in Christ and the work of His Spirit in our lives.

3. A New Definition of Blessing

Jesus redefined what it means to be blessed. In the Beatitudes (Matthew 5:3-12), He describes the blessed as those who are poor in spirit, mourn, hunger and thirst for righteousness, and even those who are persecuted.

This shows us that blessings are not just about external prosperity but also about the deep joy and spiritual strength that come from walking closely with God.

4. God’s Promise to Provide and Lead Us

Although we are not under the Old Covenant, God still promises to provide for those who seek Him first:

“Seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.” (Matthew 6:33)

When we follow Jesus joyfully and wholeheartedly, God takes care of our needs—though not always in the way we expect. He leads, provides, and works all things together for our good (Romans 8:28).

5. The Ultimate Fulfillment: Eternal Blessings in Christ

While Israel was promised land, prosperity, and security, we as believers have a far greater promise:

“No eye has seen, no ear has heard, and no mind has imagined what God has prepared for those who love Him.” (1 Corinthians 2:9)

Our greatest inheritance is not found in material wealth, but in eternal life, the presence of the Holy Spirit, and an unshakable kingdom (Hebrews 12:28). These are blessings that will never fade away.

Living in the Fullness of God’s Blessings

So, does “Wherever you go and whatever you do, you will be blessed” apply to us today? Yes—but in a Christ-centered way. Rather than focusing on earthly prosperity, we are invited to embrace the joy, peace, purpose, and spiritual riches found in Christ.

When we obey God with joy, we experience His presence, His provision, and His guidance in every aspect of life. And that is a blessing beyond measure.

Have you seen these blessings in your own walk with Jesus? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

Posted in Bible, God, Healing, Health, Holy Spirit, Jesus, Wisdom | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

The Power and Wisdom of the Golden Rule

Posted on April 2, 2025 by Mark Cole

Jesus’ words in Luke 6:31, “Do to others as you would like them to do to you,” encapsulate one of the most profound principles of human interaction. Commonly known as the Golden Rule, this teaching is simple yet deeply transformative. It holds the power to reshape relationships, heal divisions, and create a world where kindness and justice prevail. Let’s explore why this rule is so powerful and wise.

A Universal Principle

The Golden Rule is not just a Christian teaching; it appears in many religious and ethical traditions worldwide. Its universal presence speaks to the deep-seated human desire for fairness, respect, and love. It resonates across cultures and generations because it is based on empathy—the ability to put ourselves in another person’s place.

The Power of the Golden Rule

  1. Transforms Relationships – Imagine a world where every interaction is guided by this principle. Marriages would be healthier, friendships deeper, workplaces more harmonious. Treating others as we want to be treated fosters mutual respect and appreciation.
  2. Heals and Reconciles – When conflicts arise, following the Golden Rule leads us toward humility and reconciliation. If we desire understanding and forgiveness from others, we must extend the same to them.
  3. Creates a Culture of Generosity – People who live by this principle become givers rather than takers. They offer encouragement, help, and love because they know these are the very things they would want in return.
  4. Strengthens Communities – Families, churches, and societies flourish when people practice this principle. It builds trust, eliminates selfishness, and creates environments where people feel safe and valued.

The Wisdom of the Golden Rule

  1. Simple Yet Profound – The rule is easy to understand but requires deep character to live out. It demands self-awareness, integrity, and intentional kindness.
  2. Prevents Harm – If we take time to consider how we would feel before speaking or acting, we would avoid many of life’s regrets. Hurtful words, broken promises, and selfish decisions would be minimized.
  3. Encourages Reflection – It forces us to ask, “How would I want to be treated?” before making decisions. This level of introspection cultivates wisdom and discernment.
  4. Aligns with God’s Heart – Jesus embodied the Golden Rule perfectly. He loved, forgave, and served others, setting an example for us to follow. Living this way aligns us with God’s will and reflects His love to the world.

How to Apply the Golden Rule Daily

  • Speak words of encouragement rather than criticism.
  • Offer help before waiting to be asked.
  • Be quick to forgive, just as you desire forgiveness.
  • Listen attentively, just as you appreciate being heard.
  • Show kindness even to those who may not deserve it.

Final Thoughts

The Golden Rule is more than a moral guideline—it is a way of life that reflects God’s heart for humanity. It has the power to change our personal relationships, our communities, and even our world. When we treat others with the same love, respect, and kindness we desire, we become agents of God’s grace and light in a dark world. Let’s commit to living out this timeless wisdom each day.

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

The Blessing of Reading One Chapter of Proverbs Per Day

Posted on April 1, 2025 by Mark Cole

Years ago, I read that Billy Graham followed a simple yet profound Bible reading habit: he read one Psalm, one chapter of Proverbs, and a passage from both the Old and New Testaments every day. Inspired by his example, I began this habit myself, rising at 5 AM each morning to seek wisdom in God’s Word. One of the most transformative aspects of this discipline has been reading a chapter of Proverbs daily. With 31 chapters, Proverbs fits perfectly into a monthly reading plan, offering a continual cycle of wisdom that never grows old.

Why Read Proverbs Daily?

  1. Wisdom for Every Day
    Proverbs is often referred to as the Bible’s book of wisdom, and for good reason. Each chapter contains principles for living righteously, dealing with people wisely, and making sound decisions. When you read a chapter each day, you invite God’s wisdom into your daily life, helping you navigate challenges with clarity and discernment.
  2. Practical Guidance for Life
    Unlike abstract theology, Proverbs provides concrete advice on relationships, work, speech, integrity, and finances. Verses like Proverbs 15:1, “A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger,” offer timeless counsel on handling conflicts. By reading Proverbs regularly, you develop a mindset that applies godly principles to real-life situations.
  3. A Constant Reminder to Fear the Lord
    “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom” (Proverbs 9:10). This recurring theme reminds us that true wisdom isn’t merely intellectual but deeply spiritual. Each day’s reading reinforces our dependence on God rather than our own understanding.
  4. Protection Against Foolishness
    Proverbs constantly contrasts the way of the wise with the way of the fool. In a world filled with distractions and temptations, daily exposure to God’s wisdom acts as a safeguard, keeping us from making poor choices that lead to regret.
  5. Character Development Over Time
    When you read Proverbs every month, its lessons gradually shape your thinking, attitudes, and character. Like water that smooths a stone over time, God’s wisdom refines us, making us more like Christ in our words and actions.

How to Make the Most of Your Proverbs Reading

  • Read with Expectation – Ask God to highlight a verse or concept that speaks directly to your life that day.
  • Journal Insights – Write down key verses and personal reflections to reinforce learning.
  • Pray Through the Chapter – Ask the Lord to help you apply what you’ve read.
  • Share with Others – Discussing Proverbs with family, friends, or your church community strengthens understanding and accountability.

A Life of Wisdom

Reading one chapter of Proverbs each day is a simple yet profound habit that yields lifelong blessings. It keeps your heart aligned with God, equips you for daily challenges, and ensures you are continually growing in wisdom. As Proverbs 4:7 says, “Wisdom is supreme—so get wisdom.”

I encourage you to start today—pick up your Bible, turn to Proverbs 1, and embark on a journey of wisdom that will transform your life!

Posted in Bible, Exercise, God, Healing, Health, Holy Spirit, Jesus, Leadership, Wisdom | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

The Treasury of the Heart: What’s Flowing from Yours?

Posted on April 1, 2025 by Mark Cole

Jesus said in Luke 6:45, “A good person produces good things from the treasury of a good heart, and an evil person produces evil things from the treasury of an evil heart. What you say flows from what is in your heart.” These words cut straight to the core of who we are. They reveal a simple yet profound truth: our words and actions are the overflow of what’s inside us.

The Heart as a Treasury

Imagine your heart as a treasury—a vault that stores up what you value most. Over time, the deposits you make shape what you have to offer the world. If you fill it with faith, love, truth, and kindness, then those are the things that will flow from your life. If you allow bitterness, anger, and selfishness to take root, those will inevitably spill out as well.

The question we must ask ourselves is: What am I storing in my heart?

Words Reveal the Heart

Jesus makes it clear: our words are not random. They don’t appear out of thin air. They come from within. What we consistently speak—whether encouragement or criticism, gratitude or complaint, truth or deception—shows what is really inside us.

Proverbs 4:23 warns us, “Guard your heart above all else, for it determines the course of your life.” If we fail to guard our hearts, we risk allowing harmful influences to take up residence. But if we fill our hearts with God’s truth, our words and actions will reflect His goodness.

Filling the Heart with Good Treasure

So how do we cultivate a treasury of good within our hearts? Here are three practical ways:

  1. Daily Time in God’s Word – Scripture is the best deposit we can make into our hearts. Psalm 119:11 says, “I have hidden Your word in my heart, that I might not sin against You.” The more we meditate on God’s truth, the more it will shape our thoughts and words.
  2. Prayer and Worship – Spending time with God softens and refines our hearts. As we surrender to Him, He removes what doesn’t belong and fills us with His Spirit, producing love, joy, peace, patience, and all the fruits of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22-23).
  3. Intentional Relationships – The people we surround ourselves with influence the condition of our hearts. Proverbs 13:20 says, “Walk with the wise and become wise; associate with fools and get in trouble.” We must be mindful of who we allow to speak into our lives.

A Life Overflowing with Goodness

When we make a habit of filling our hearts with godly treasure, the result is a life that blesses others. Our words become sources of encouragement. Our actions reflect the love of Christ. People around us are drawn to the light that shines from within us.

Let’s make it our daily prayer: “Lord, fill my heart with Your goodness. Let my words reflect Your truth. May what flows from my life be a blessing to those around me.”

What’s in your treasury today? Whatever is stored there will surely come out. Let’s fill it with God’s best!

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

The Biblical Principle of Giving: A Generous Heart, A Blessed Life

Posted on April 1, 2025 by Mark Cole

One of Jesus’ most powerful teachings on giving is found in Luke 6:38: “Give, and you will receive. Your gift will return to you in full—pressed down, shaken together to make room for more, running over, and poured into your lap. The amount you give will determine the amount you get back.”

This verse is a profound reminder that generosity is a divine principle woven into the fabric of God’s kingdom. Throughout Scripture, we see that God calls His people to be generous, not out of obligation but out of love and trust in Him. Let’s explore some of the key biblical teachings on giving.

1. Giving Is an Act of Worship

Giving is more than a financial transaction—it is an act of worship. In Proverbs 3:9-10, we are instructed: “Honor the Lord with your wealth and with the best part of everything you produce. Then He will fill your barns with grain, and your vats will overflow with good wine.” Giving acknowledges God as the source of all our blessings and demonstrates our gratitude and reliance on Him.

2. Giving Reflects God’s Character

God is the ultimate giver. “For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son” (John 3:16). Our generosity mirrors God’s nature. When we give, we reflect His love, kindness, and selflessness to the world.

3. Giving Should Be Cheerful and Willing

Paul emphasizes in 2 Corinthians 9:7: “Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.” God does not desire begrudging gifts; He delights in those who give joyfully and willingly.

4. Giving Brings Blessings, But It’s Not About Prosperity

While God promises blessings to those who give, biblical giving is not a prosperity scheme. Proverbs 11:25 states: “A generous person will prosper; whoever refreshes others will be refreshed.” However, our motive should not be to receive but to bless others. True biblical giving is about trust and obedience, not merely personal gain.

5. Giving Helps Those in Need

The Bible repeatedly calls believers to care for the poor, widows, and orphans. Proverbs 19:17 declares: “Whoever is kind to the poor lends to the Lord, and He will reward them for what they have done.” Acts 20:35 reminds us: “It is more blessed to give than to receive.” Our giving should extend beyond the church and into the lives of those in need.

6. Giving Expands God’s Kingdom

When we give, we help spread the gospel and support the work of ministry. Philippians 4:16-17 commends the church for their generosity in supporting Paul’s ministry. Our giving enables the church to serve, disciple, and reach more people for Christ.

7. Giving Strengthens Our Faith

Giving requires faith. In Malachi 3:10, God challenges His people: “Bring the whole tithe into the storehouse, that there may be food in my house. Test me in this,” says the Lord Almighty, “and see if I will not throw open the floodgates of heaven and pour out so much blessing that there will not be room enough to store it.” When we give, we trust God to provide for our needs, deepening our faith in His provision.

Final Thoughts

The Bible teaches that giving is a heart issue, not just a financial one. It is a reflection of our trust in God, a demonstration of His love, and a means of blessing others. As we cultivate a generous heart, we align ourselves with God’s kingdom principles, experiencing the joy and fulfillment that come from living a life of generosity.

May we all strive to be cheerful givers, trusting that as we give, God will continue to provide, bless, and use us to impact the world for His glory.

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

9 Keys to a Long Life: What the Bible Teaches

Posted on April 1, 2025 by Mark Cole

Many people seek the secret to a long and fulfilling life. Modern science points to healthy habits like eating well, exercising, and reducing stress. But did you know that the Bible also gives clear principles on how to live a long life? Scripture reveals that longevity is not just about physical health, but also about spiritual and moral choices. Here are some biblical keys to a long life:

1. Fear the Lord and Keep His Commands

Proverbs 10:27 – “The fear of the Lord adds length to life, but the years of the wicked are cut short.”

A deep reverence for God and obedience to His ways lead to a life of blessing and longevity. The Bible repeatedly connects fearing the Lord with wisdom and prolonged days.

2. Honor Your Father and Mother

Exodus 20:12 – “Honor your father and your mother, so that you may live long in the land the Lord your God is giving you.”

This is the first commandment with a promise. Respecting and caring for our parents brings divine favor, including long life.

3. Walk in Wisdom and Righteousness

Proverbs 3:1-2 – “My son, do not forget my teaching, but keep my commands in your heart, for they will prolong your life many years and bring you peace and prosperity.”

Wisdom and obedience to God’s principles lead to a peaceful and extended life. Avoiding sin, making wise choices, and pursuing righteousness protect us from many dangers that can shorten our lives.

4. Speak Truth and Avoid Deceit

Psalm 34:12-13 – “Whoever of you loves life and desires to see many good days, keep your tongue from evil and your lips from telling lies.”

Honesty and integrity contribute to a long and peaceful life. Deception and dishonesty often lead to destruction and hardship.

5. Use Honest Business Practices

Deuteronomy 25:15 – “You must have accurate and honest weights and measures, so that you may live long in the land the Lord your God is giving you.”

God connects fairness in business with longevity. When we operate with integrity, we experience stability and blessing.

6. Take Care of Your Body

1 Corinthians 6:19-20 – “Do you not know that your bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own; you were bought at a price. Therefore honor God with your bodies.”

While the Bible focuses more on spiritual health, it also encourages caring for our physical bodies. Living recklessly, indulging in unhealthy habits, or abusing substances can cut life short.

7. Be Generous and Kind to Others

Proverbs 11:25 – “A generous person will prosper; whoever refreshes others will be refreshed.”

Living with a generous and kind heart contributes to longevity. Science even supports this, as those who serve others tend to have less stress and live longer lives.

8. Trust in God and Avoid Worry

Proverbs 14:30 – “A heart at peace gives life to the body, but envy rots the bones.”

Anxiety and stress can take a toll on our physical health. The Bible encourages us to trust in God, live in peace, and avoid envy and worry, which lead to health and longevity.

9. Stay Away from Wickedness

Proverbs 13:14 – “The teaching of the wise is a fountain of life, turning a person from the snares of death.”

Avoiding sinful and reckless behavior preserves life. Many destructive habits—viohonorlence, immorality, and addiction—lead to early death, but godly wisdom protects us.

Conclusion: Living Long by Living Right

The Bible makes it clear that a long and fulfilling life is not just about genetics or diet—it is about honoring God, living righteously, speaking truth, being generous, and trusting in the Lord. While we cannot control everything, we can follow these biblical principles and position ourselves to receive God’s blessing of longevity.

Are you putting these keys into practice? A life lived for God is not just long—it is abundant and full of purpose!

Posted in Bible, Exercise, Family, God, Healing, Health, Wisdom | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

Finding Rest in the Shelter of the Most High

Posted on March 31, 2025 by Mark Cole

Life can be exhausting. The demands of work, ministry, family, and the constant pressures of life can leave us feeling drained. We live in a world that glorifies busyness, but deep down, our souls crave rest—not just physical rest, but the kind of rest that reaches the core of our being. Psalm 91:1 offers a profound truth: “Those who live in the shelter of the Most High will find rest in the shadow of the Almighty.” This verse reminds us that true rest is not found in vacations, entertainment, or even sleep—it is found in God Himself.

Living in the Shelter of the Most High

The key word in Psalm 91:1 is “live.” Other translations say “dwell.” This is not a temporary visit but a lifestyle of abiding in God’s presence. To dwell in the shelter of the Most High means to intentionally stay close to God, making Him our refuge and safe place. When we do this, we are promised rest—true, lasting, soul-refreshing rest.

The Shadow of the Almighty

Shadows offer relief from the heat of the day. To rest in the shadow of the Almighty means to stay close enough to Him that we are covered by His presence. This requires intimacy with God—through prayer, worship, and time in His Word. Just as a child feels secure in the presence of a loving parent, we can find peace and rest in knowing that God is near.

How to Find Rest in God

Here are a few practical ways to cultivate this kind of rest:

  1. Prioritize Time with God – Just as we schedule important meetings or family time, we must set aside intentional moments to be with God. Morning devotions, worship, and prayer anchor our hearts in His presence.
  2. Surrender Your Burdens – Jesus invites us to bring our worries to Him: “Come to Me, all who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest” (Matthew 11:28). Trusting God with our concerns allows us to release stress and embrace His peace.
  3. Meditate on God’s Promises – Psalm 91 is filled with assurances of God’s protection and faithfulness. When we meditate on His Word, it strengthens our faith and brings rest to our souls.
  4. Embrace Sabbath Rest – God established a rhythm of work and rest from the beginning. Taking time to step away from our work, whether for a day or intentional moments throughout the week, helps us refocus on what truly matters.
  5. Worship in the Midst of Stress – Worship shifts our focus from our problems to God’s greatness. It reminds us that He is in control, and we can find rest in His sovereignty.

Final Thoughts

Psalm 91:1 is an invitation to experience the deep rest that comes from dwelling in God’s presence. When we make Him our shelter, we don’t have to carry the weight of life alone. His shadow covers us, His peace sustains us, and His love restores us. In a restless world, may we choose to abide in the Most High and find true rest in Him.

Posted in Bible, Church, God, Health, Holy Spirit, Jesus, Leadership, Wisdom | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment