Worship Leaders University

Lessons from Jesus Casting Out Demons

Posted on February 24, 2025 by Mark Cole

One of the most dramatic encounters in the ministry of Jesus is found in Mark 5:1-20, where He heals a demon-possessed man. This story, also recorded in Matthew 8 and Luke 8, provides profound lessons on Jesus’ authority over spiritual forces and His power to bring complete restoration. Here are five key takeaways from this passage:

1. Jesus Has Ultimate Authority Over Demons

In Mark 5:8, Jesus commands the evil spirit, saying, “Come out of the man, you evil spirit!” The demons immediately recognized His authority and called Him “Son of the Most High God” (Mark 5:7). Even a legion (potentially thousands of demons) had no power to resist His command.

Lesson: Jesus, as the Son of God, has absolute power over all spiritual forces. As believers, we should trust in His authority and not be intimidated by the enemy (Colossians 2:15).

2. Demons Fear Jesus and Must Obey Him

The demons in this story begged Jesus not to send them away (Mark 5:10). This shows that demonic forces are subject to His will and cannot act beyond what He allows.

Lesson: The enemy may attempt to intimidate, but he is ultimately powerless before Jesus. James 4:7 reminds us: “Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.”

3. Deliverance Brings Transformation

The man, who had been wild, self-destructive, and living in the tombs, was later seen “sitting there, dressed and in his right mind” (Mark 5:15). Jesus not only freed him from demonic bondage but also restored his dignity and peace.

Lesson: Jesus doesn’t just set us free; He brings full transformation. In Christ, we move from brokenness to wholeness (John 10:10).

4. Jesus Prioritizes People Over Property

The demons entered a herd of pigs, which then drowned in the sea (Mark 5:13). The townspeople, instead of celebrating the man’s healing, were upset over the financial loss of their livestock.

Lesson: Jesus values people’s souls over material possessions. While the world often prioritizes wealth, Jesus shows us that no earthly treasure is more important than a transformed life (Matthew 16:26).

5. Our Testimony Is Powerful

After his healing, the man wanted to follow Jesus. However, Jesus told him, “Go home to your own people and tell them how much the Lord has done for you” (Mark 5:19). The man obeyed, sharing his story, and many were amazed.

Lesson: A personal testimony of God’s power can impact many. What God has done in our lives is meant to be shared, leading others to faith (Revelation 12:11).

Final Thoughts

This passage reminds us that Jesus is still in the business of setting people free. Whether from spiritual oppression, addiction, sin, or fear, His power remains supreme. We can trust Him to bring restoration, prioritize people over possessions, and use our testimonies for His glory.

If you’ve experienced the transforming power of Jesus in your life, don’t keep it to yourself—share it! Just as the once-possessed man spread the news, your testimony can lead others to encounter the same life-changing power of Christ.

Posted in Bible, God, Healing, Jesus | Tagged addiction, authority, demons, fear, freedom, life-changing, oppression, power, resist the devil, restoration, setting free, soul, spiritual forces, testimony, transformation | Leave a comment

Trusting God Through Tragedy: Finding Healing In Grief

Posted on February 24, 2025 by Mark Cole

Losing a parent or child is one of the most painful experiences a person can endure. Grief is heavy, and it can shake the very foundation of our faith. When I was 12 years old, my father died in an industrial accident, leaving my mother a widow with four small children. It was a devastating loss, but in the midst of the pain, we saw God’s hand at work. He provided, comforted, and carried us through a difficult season.

Recently, a young piano student of mine lost his father to illness. His pain is fresh, his grief deep. What can we say to those walking through such darkness? How can we encourage them to trust God in the middle of such loss?

The Reality of Grief

Grief is real and painful. Even Jesus, who knew He would raise Lazarus from the dead, wept at his tomb (John 11:35). The Bible does not minimize our suffering but acknowledges it. Psalm 34:18 reminds us, “The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.” God does not expect us to ignore our pain; instead, He walks with us through it.

Trusting God When We Don’t Understand

Loss often raises difficult questions: Why did this happen? Where was God? While we may never fully understand, we can rest in the truth that God is still good, loving, and sovereign. Proverbs 3:5-6 tells us, “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to Him, and He will make your paths straight.” Trusting God does not mean we won’t feel pain, but it does mean we believe He will guide us even when the way is unclear.

God’s Promises in Grief

He will never leave us. – “Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you.” (Hebrews 13:5)
He brings comfort. – “Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted.” (Matthew 5:4)
He gives us hope. – “Weeping may stay for the night, but rejoicing comes in the morning.” (Psalm 30:5)

These promises are not empty words; they are the foundation that holds us when everything else feels like it is falling apart.

Walking Through Grief with God

Be honest with God. Pour out your heart to Him (Psalm 62:8). Tell Him your pain, your questions, and your fears.
Lean on Christian community. Don’t grieve alone. God places people in our lives to support us (Galatians 6:2).
Hold onto hope. If your loved one knew Christ, you will see them again (1 Thessalonians 4:13-14). And even in grief, God is writing a new chapter for your life.
Remember God’s faithfulness. Looking back, I can see how God provided for my mother, my siblings, and me. He was faithful then, and He is faithful now.

A God Who Understands Our Loss

Ultimately, God understands our grief because He experienced it. He watched His Son suffer and die on the cross for us. But He also brought resurrection. Our grief does not have the final word—God’s love and redemption do.

If you are walking through the loss of a parent, a child, or a loved one, know this: You are not alone. God sees you, He loves you, and He will carry you through.

“Even to your old age and gray hairs I am He, I am He who will sustain you. I have made you and I will carry you; I will sustain you and I will rescue you.” (Isaiah 46:4)

Trust Him. He is still writing your story.

Posted in Bible, Church, Family, God, Healing, Jesus, Wisdom | Tagged brokenhearted, comfort, encourage, faith, God sees you, God's faithfulness, grief, healing, honest, hope, loss, painful, promises, questions, suffer, Trust, trust God | Leave a comment

From a Mustard Seed to a Global Movement: The Unstoppable Growth of God’s Kingdom

Posted on February 23, 2025 by Mark Cole

Jesus once said, “How can I describe the Kingdom of God? What story should I use to illustrate it? It is like a mustard seed planted in the ground. It is the smallest of all seeds, but it becomes the largest of all garden plants; it grows long branches, and birds can make nests in its shade” (Mark 4:30-32, NLT).

This simple yet profound parable paints a vivid picture of how the Kingdom of God, and by extension, the Church, would begin as something small and seemingly insignificant but grow into a vast, life-giving refuge for the world. Looking at history, we can see how Jesus’ words have come to pass in extraordinary ways.

The Humble Beginnings

When Jesus walked the earth, He called a small group of twelve disciples to follow Him. They were not scholars, rulers, or warriors. They were fishermen, tax collectors, and ordinary people. Yet, through their willingness to follow Christ, they became the foundation of a movement that would change the world.

After Jesus’ death and resurrection, the disciples were empowered by the Holy Spirit on the day of Pentecost. In that moment, Peter stood up and preached boldly, and about 3,000 people were added to the faith in a single day (Acts 2:41). This marked the birth of the Church, a small but powerful mustard seed planted in the soil of history.

Expansion Despite Persecution

The early Church faced severe persecution, yet it did not wither. Instead, it thrived. Roman authorities and religious leaders sought to crush the movement, but as Tertullian, a second-century Christian writer, famously said, “The blood of the martyrs is the seed of the Church.” The more the Church was opposed, the more it grew.

From Jerusalem, the message of Christ spread through the Roman Empire, reaching cities like Antioch, Ephesus, Corinth, and eventually Rome itself. The Apostle Paul, a former persecutor of Christians, became one of its greatest evangelists, planting churches across Asia Minor and Europe. By the early fourth century, Christianity had spread so widely that Emperor Constantine declared it a legal religion, and eventually, it became the dominant faith of the empire.

The Church Through the Ages

Despite periods of turmoil, division, and corruption, the Church has continued to grow and adapt. From the monastic movements of the Middle Ages to the Protestant Reformation, from missionary movements to modern-day revivals, the mustard seed continues to flourish.

Today there are over 2.4 billion followers of Jesus across every continent. The Gospel has reached remote villages, bustling cities, underground churches in persecuted nations, and digital platforms that connect believers globally. Churches meet in cathedrals, homes, and open fields. The message of Jesus continues to bring hope, healing, and salvation to countless people.

The Kingdom Still Grows

Jesus’ parable reminds us that the Kingdom of God is not static; it is always growing. Even when the Church faces opposition, cultural shifts, or internal challenges, God continues to expand His work. New churches are planted daily, new believers are baptized, and the Gospel is preached in more languages than ever before.

As followers of Christ, we are part of this incredible story. Whether through personal evangelism, discipleship, worship, or acts of service, we contribute to the Kingdom’s growth. The mustard seed that Jesus spoke of is still growing, its branches extending further than we could have imagined.

Final Thoughts

The Church began with Jesus and a small group of disciples, yet it has grown into a worldwide movement impacting billions. Just as the mustard seed grows into a great tree, the Kingdom of God continues to provide shade, refuge, and life to all who seek the truth of Jesus.

Let us be encouraged and inspired to keep planting, watering, and nurturing the faith in our own communities, knowing that God is the one who brings the increase. His Kingdom will never fail, and the mustard seed will continue to grow until the whole earth is filled with His glory.

Posted in Bible, Church, God, Holy Spirit, Jesus, Leadership, Wisdom | Tagged believers, change the world, Christ, Christianity, church, faith, Gospel, grow, history, Jesus, Kingdom of God, life, persecution, planting, refuge, seed, shade, truth, watering | Leave a comment

How a Pastor Can Grow a Church: Lessons from the Parable of the Growing Seed

Posted on February 23, 2025 by Mark Cole

One of the most encouraging parables Jesus told about the Kingdom of God is found in Mark 4:26-29:

“The Kingdom of God is like a farmer who scatters seed on the ground. Night and day, while he’s asleep or awake, the seed sprouts and grows, but he does not understand how it happens. The earth produces the crops on its own. First a leaf blade pushes through, then the heads of wheat are formed, and finally the grain ripens. And as soon as the grain is ready, the farmer comes and harvests it with a sickle, for the harvest time has come.”

For local pastors and church leaders, this parable provides a powerful picture of how churches grow—not simply through human effort, but through God’s mysterious work. While we are called to plant and tend the field, the true growth of the church comes from the hand of God. Let’s look at four key lessons from this passage that apply to pastoral leadership and church growth.

1. Faithful Planting is Essential

Jesus begins by describing the farmer who scatters seed. Without seed in the ground, there can be no harvest. Likewise, a pastor’s first responsibility is to faithfully plant the Word of God in the hearts of people.

This means:
✅ Preaching the Gospel consistently—without compromise.
✅ Investing in discipleship—mentoring people in their faith.
✅ Creating a culture of prayer and worship—making the soil fertile.
✅ Engaging with the community—planting the seeds of love and service.

No pastor can make a church grow without first planting the right seed! Churches that are rooted in sound doctrine, genuine worship, and real relationships have fertile ground for God to bring increase.

2. Church Growth is a Mystery and a Work of God

Jesus says that the seed sprouts and grows, but the farmer does not understand how it happens. This is a powerful truth: pastors and leaders do not control the growth of a church—God does.

Yes, we can plant, water, and cultivate, but only God can bring transformation in people’s lives. The Holy Spirit works in unseen ways, stirring hearts, convicting of sin, and drawing people into a deeper relationship with Christ.

As Paul put it:

“I planted the seed, Apollos watered it, but God has been making it grow.” (1 Corinthians 3:6)

This is both humbling and freeing. It reminds pastors that they are not responsible for results—only for obedience. The pressure to “build the church” must be replaced with a faithful trust in God’s timing and power.

3. The Church Grows in Stages

Jesus describes a gradual process:

First a leaf blade pushes through (early faith, new believers).
Then the heads of wheat are formed (spiritual development, discipleship).
Finally, the grain ripens (maturity, leadership, multiplication).

Church growth is not instant—it happens step by step. A healthy church doesn’t just add members; it nurtures them through each stage of spiritual maturity.

A wise pastor will:
🔹 Be patient—understanding that spiritual growth takes time.
🔹 Develop strong discipleship—helping people take their next steps in faith.
🔹 Invest in leadership training—so mature believers can disciple others.

If we try to rush the process, we may end up with shallow growth rather than deep-rooted faith. True discipleship takes time, and we must trust the process.

4. There is a Time for Harvest

The parable ends with the farmer recognizing when the harvest is ready. This is crucial—because while growth takes time, pastors must also recognize when it’s time to reap.

What does “harvesting” look like in a church?
✅ Calling people to commitment—leading people to surrender fully to Christ.
✅ Raising up leaders—entrusting ministry to capable and mature believers.
✅ Sending people out—commissioning workers for God’s mission beyond the church walls.

Too many churches remain stuck in maintenance mode, when God is actually preparing them for a great harvest. A discerning pastor knows when to call people to action and lead them into the next season of growth and impact.

Final Thoughts: Trusting God for Growth

At the heart of this parable is one simple truth: church growth is ultimately God’s work, not ours.

A pastor’s role is to:
🌱 Plant faithfully—Preach the Word and invest in people.
☀️ Trust God’s process—Allow time for growth, even when it’s unseen.
🌾 Disciple wisely—Recognize that growth happens in stages.
🛠️ Be ready for the harvest—Equip and send people into their calling.

If you are a pastor or church leader, take heart. God is at work even when you don’t see it. Keep planting, keep watering, and trust that in His time, the harvest will come.

What About You?

If you’re a pastor, leader, or committed church member, how have you seen this principle at work in your church? Are you in a season of planting, waiting, or harvesting? Let me know in the comments!

Blessings,
Mark Cole

Posted in Bible, Church, God, Leadership, Wisdom, Worship | Tagged church, church growth, community, culture, discipleship, God's timing, growth, harvest, leaders, plant faithfully, planting, prayer, preaching, process, relationships, seed, sending people, sowing, step by step, training, transformation, trust God, Worship | Leave a comment

Kingdom Living: Keys to an Abundant Life

Posted on February 22, 2025 by Mark Cole

Jesus’ parable of the sower (Mark 4:1-20) reveals a powerful truth about fruitfulness in the Kingdom of God. He describes different kinds of soil representing the condition of our hearts and explains that those who receive God’s Word and nurture it will produce a harvest of thirty, sixty, or even a hundredfold. But what does it truly mean to live a fruitful and abundant life in God’s Kingdom? Here are some key principles:

1. Abide in Christ

Jesus said, “I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in Me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from Me, you can do nothing.” (John 15:5)

Abundance comes not from our efforts alone but from remaining connected to Jesus. When we dwell in His presence, meditate on His Word, and rely on His strength, we bear lasting fruit that glorifies God.

2. Walk in the Spirit

Paul teaches that the evidence of a Spirit-filled life is the fruit of the Spirit: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. (Galatians 5:22-23)

A life led by the Holy Spirit is marked by character transformation. When we submit to His leading, our attitudes, actions, and relationships reflect the nature of Christ, leading to true abundance.

3. Die to Self to Bear Fruit

Jesus said, “Unless a kernel of wheat falls to the ground and dies, it remains only a single seed. But if it dies, it produces many seeds.” (John 12:24)

True fruitfulness often requires sacrifice. We must be willing to let go of selfish desires, worldly ambitions, and personal comforts to embrace God’s higher purpose. When we die to ourselves, we make room for His life to grow in us and through us.

4. Serve Others With Love

Paul encourages us to “live a life worthy of the Lord and please Him in every way: bearing fruit in every good work, growing in the knowledge of God.” (Colossians 1:10)

Our lives should reflect the goodness of God through service, generosity, and acts of love. Fruitfulness is not just about internal growth; it is also demonstrated in how we impact others.

5. Sow Generously and Expect a Harvest

Paul writes, “Whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows generously will also reap generously.” (2 Corinthians 9:6)

Abundant living comes through faithfulness in sowing seeds—whether in prayer, generosity, evangelism, or discipleship. When we invest in God’s kingdom, He multiplies our efforts far beyond what we can imagine.

6. Persevere Through Trials

Jesus said that the good soil represents “those with a noble and good heart, who hear the word, retain it, and by persevering produce a crop.” (Luke 8:15)

Fruitfulness requires patience and endurance. Challenges and setbacks will come, but those who remain steadfast in faith will see the fulfillment of God’s promises.

7. Make Disciples and Multiply

Jesus commanded, “Go and make disciples of all nations.” (Matthew 28:19)

Kingdom living is not just about personal growth; it’s about multiplying our faith by investing in others. When we pour into people’s lives, mentoring and discipling them, we create a ripple effect of Kingdom impact.

8. Pursue Eternal Fruit

Jesus said, “I chose you and appointed you so that you might go and bear fruit—fruit that will last.” (John 15:16)

The most abundant life is one that produces lasting, eternal fruit. Wealth, status, and earthly success fade away, but souls won for Christ and lives transformed by His power endure forever.

Final Thoughts

Living an abundant life in God’s Kingdom is about more than material blessings; it is about bearing spiritual fruit that impacts eternity. By abiding in Christ, walking in the Spirit, dying to self, serving others with love, sowing generously, persevering, making disciples, and focusing on eternal rewards, we can experience the “thirty, sixty, or hundredfold” harvest that Jesus promised.

Are you ready to embrace the abundant life God has called you to? Let’s dedicate ourselves to living fruitfully, reflecting His love, and bringing glory to His name!

Posted in Bible, Church, God, Jesus, Leadership, Wisdom | Tagged abide in Christ, acts of love, bear fruit, die to ourselves, disciples, endurance, Evangelism, faithfulness, fruit, generosity, generous, gentleness, good works, goodness, joy, lasting fruit, love, patience, peace, persevere, sacrifice, self-control, service, sow, vine, walk in the Spirit | Leave a comment

Breaking Generational Patterns and Sin: Walking in Freedom

Posted on February 21, 2025 by Mark Cole

Every family has a history. Some of it is beautiful, filled with faith, love, and strength. But many of us also carry the weight of generational struggles—patterns of sin, dysfunction, or brokenness that seem to repeat from one generation to the next. Whether it’s addiction, anger, fear, poverty, divorce, or spiritual apathy, these cycles can feel impossible to break.

But the good news is that through Jesus Christ, we are not bound by the sins of the past. God offers freedom, healing, and a new legacy to those who trust in Him.

Understanding Generational Sin

One of the most well-known verses about generational sin is Exodus 34:6-7, where God declares:

“The Lord, the Lord, the compassionate and gracious God, slow to anger, abounding in love and faithfulness, maintaining love to thousands, and forgiving wickedness, rebellion, and sin. Yet He does not leave the guilty unpunished; He punishes the children and their children for the sin of the parents to the third and fourth generation.”

At first glance, this may seem unfair—why should children suffer for their parents’ mistakes? But when we look at the whole of Scripture, we see that God is not punishing innocent children for their parents’ sins. Instead, He is warning us that sin has consequences that extend beyond ourselves. When one generation walks in rebellion, the next generation is often influenced by that same way of living.

Yet, God also makes it clear that each person is responsible for their own actions:

“The one who sins is the one who will die. The child will not share the guilt of the parent, nor will the parent share the guilt of the child.” (Ezekiel 18:20)

This means that while we may feel the effects of past generations’ choices, we are not doomed to repeat them. In Christ, we have the power to walk in freedom!

How to Break Generational Patterns

1. Recognize the Pattern

The first step in breaking generational sin is acknowledging it. What patterns do you see in your family history? Are there cycles of addiction, fear, dishonesty, broken relationships, or spiritual neglect? Bring these things into the light and ask God to reveal areas where transformation is needed.

2. Repent and Renounce

Once you recognize a pattern, repent of any ways you have personally contributed to it. Even if the sin began with your ancestors, you have a choice in how you respond. Through Christ, you can renounce those sinful cycles and ask God to cleanse your heart and mind.

“If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.” (1 John 1:9)

3. Renew Your Mind with God’s Word

Breaking free from generational sin requires a transformation in thinking. If you’ve grown up believing lies (such as “I’ll never be different” or “This is just the way our family is”), replace them with God’s truth. The Bible says:

“Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.” (Romans 12:2)

God’s Word is the key to walking in lasting freedom.

4. Build a New Legacy

Your choices today impact future generations. If you came from a family of brokenness, you can be the one to change the story. Choose to walk in righteousness, to pursue godly character, and to lead your family in faith.

“But from everlasting to everlasting the Lord’s love is with those who fear Him, and His righteousness with their children’s children.” (Psalm 103:17)

By living in obedience to God, you create a foundation of faith that your children and grandchildren can build upon.

5. Stay Connected to the Body of Christ

Breaking free from past patterns isn’t meant to be done alone. Surround yourself with a church community, mentors, and friends who will encourage you in your walk with Christ. Share your struggles, seek counsel, and allow others to pray with you.

“Therefore confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed.” (James 5:16)

6. Walk in the Power of the Holy Spirit

Willpower alone cannot break spiritual bondage. But through the Holy Spirit, we have the power to overcome sin and walk in righteousness. Ask the Holy Spirit to guide you daily, to give you strength when you feel weak, and to remind you of your identity in Christ.

“Now the Lord is the Spirit, and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom.” (2 Corinthians 3:17)

A New Beginning

No matter what your family history looks like, you are not a prisoner to the past. In Christ, you are a new creation:

“Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!” (2 Corinthians 5:17)

God specializes in rewriting stories. He can turn a family legacy of pain into a testimony of redemption. He can break chains of addiction, fear, and dysfunction, and replace them with joy, peace, and purpose.

You are not bound by your past. You are free in Christ. Walk in that freedom, and build a new legacy for the generations to come!

Posted in Bible, Family, God, Healing, Health, Holy Spirit, Jesus, Wisdom | Tagged anger, brokenness, counsel, divorce, dysfunction, faith, fear, free in Christ, freedom, generational sin, God's Word, guilt, Holy Spirit, legacy, love, new creation, obedience, pattern, poverty, renew your mind, renounce, repent, strength | Leave a comment

Who Does God Say I Am?

Posted on February 20, 2025 by Mark Cole

One of the most powerful truths I can embrace as a believer is my identity in Christ. The enemy often tries to deceive me into believing that I am not enough, unworthy, or unloved. But God’s Word tells a different story. When I align my thoughts with His truth, I can walk in confidence, knowing who I truly am. Here are 21 scriptures that declare who God says I am:

1. I Am a Child of God

John 1:12 – “But to all who did receive Him, who believed in His name, He gave the right to become children of God.”

2. I Am Loved

Jeremiah 31:3 – “I have loved you with an everlasting love; therefore I have continued My faithfulness to you.”

3. I Am Chosen

1 Peter 2:9 – “But you are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for His own possession, that you may proclaim the excellencies of Him who called you out of darkness into His marvelous light.”

4. I Am Redeemed

Ephesians 1:7 – “In Him I have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of my trespasses, according to the riches of His grace.”

5. I Am Forgiven

Colossians 1:13-14 – “He has delivered me from the domain of darkness and transferred me to the kingdom of His beloved Son, in whom I have redemption, the forgiveness of sins.”

6. I Am a New Creation

2 Corinthians 5:17 – “Therefore, if I am in Christ, I am a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come.”

7. I Am More Than a Conqueror

Romans 8:37 – “No, in all these things I am more than a conqueror through Him who loved me.”

8. I Am an Heir with Christ

Romans 8:17 – “And if I am a child, then an heir—an heir of God and fellow heir with Christ, provided I suffer with Him in order that I may also be glorified with Him.”

9. I Am Fearfully and Wonderfully Made

Psalm 139:14 – “I praise You, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made. Wonderful are Your works; my soul knows it very well.”

10. I Am Free

John 8:36 – “So if the Son sets me free, I will be free indeed.”

11. I Am His Workmanship

Ephesians 2:10 – “For I am His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that I should walk in them.”

12. I Am a Citizen of Heaven

Philippians 3:20 – “But my citizenship is in heaven, and from it I await a Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ.”

13. I Am Light in the Lord

Ephesians 5:8 – “For at one time I was darkness, but now I am light in the Lord. I will walk as a child of light.”

14. I Am God’s Temple

1 Corinthians 6:19-20 – “Or do I not know that my body is a temple of the Holy Spirit within me, whom I have from God? I am not my own, for I was bought with a price. So I will glorify God in my body.”

15. I Am Strengthened in Christ

Philippians 4:13 – “I can do all things through Him who strengthens me.”

16. I Am Sealed with the Holy Spirit

Ephesians 1:13 – “In Him I also, when I heard the word of truth, the gospel of my salvation, and believed in Him, was sealed with the promised Holy Spirit.”

17. I Am Salt and Light

Matthew 5:13-14 – “I am the salt of the earth… I am the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden.”

18. I Am Protected

Isaiah 54:17 – “No weapon that is fashioned against me shall succeed, and I shall refute every tongue that rises against me in judgment. This is the heritage of the servants of the Lord.”

19. I Am Never Alone

Deuteronomy 31:6 – “I will be strong and courageous. I will not fear or be in dread of them, for it is the Lord my God who goes with me. He will not leave me or forsake me.”

20. I Am His Ambassador

2 Corinthians 5:20 – “Therefore, I am an ambassador for Christ, God making His appeal through me. I implore others on behalf of Christ to be reconciled to God.”

21. I Am Victorious

1 John 5:4 – “For I have been born of God and I overcome the world. And this is the victory that has overcome the world—my faith.”

Walking in My God-Given Identity

The way I see myself determines how I live. When I embrace my identity in Christ, I can walk boldly, love freely, and live purposefully. These 21 scriptures are just a glimpse of who God says I am. I will let them shape my thoughts, my heart, and my actions.

I am loved, chosen, redeemed, and victorious. I will walk in that truth today!

Posted in Bible, Family, God, Healing, Health, Holy Spirit, Jesus, Wisdom | Tagged ambassador, Child of God, children of light, chosen, citizen of heaven, conqueror, forgiven, free, God's temple, heir, His workmanship, I AM, light, live puposefully, love freely, loved, never alone, new creation, not alone, protected, redeemed, salt and light, scripture, strengthened, victorious, victorius, with Christ, wonderfully made | Leave a comment

What It Means to Follow Jesus

Posted on February 19, 2025 by Mark Cole

In the Gospel of Mark, Jesus calls His disciples with a simple yet life-altering invitation:

“Follow Me and be My disciple.” (Mark 1:17, NLT)

This call was not just for Peter, Andrew, James, and John—it is for every believer who desires to walk with Jesus. But what does it truly mean to follow Jesus and be His disciple? Let’s explore three key aspects.

1. Leaving Everything Behind

When Jesus called the first disciples, they left their nets and followed Him immediately. This represents a willingness to surrender everything—our plans, ambitions, and even our comfort—to pursue Christ.

“They left their nets at once and followed Him.” (Mark 1:18, NLT)

Being a disciple means that Jesus becomes our highest priority. It doesn’t necessarily mean abandoning our jobs or families, but it does mean holding everything loosely and making Him Lord over every area of our lives.

2. Learning from Jesus

A disciple is a learner, someone who sits at the feet of Jesus, soaking in His teaching and applying it to daily life. The disciples spent three years walking with Jesus, observing His actions, and absorbing His words.

Today, we learn from Jesus by studying the Bible, spending time in prayer, and seeking to live out His teachings. True discipleship is not just about acquiring knowledge—it’s about transformation.

“Take My yoke upon you. Let Me teach you, because I am humble and gentle at heart, and you will find rest for your souls.” (Matthew 11:29, NLT)

3. Living Like Jesus

Following Jesus means living as He lived. That means loving others sacrificially, serving with humility, and obeying the will of the Father.

“Those who say they live in God should live their lives as Jesus did.” (1 John 2:6, NLT)

Jesus didn’t call His disciples to a comfortable life—He called them to a life of self-denial and service. He said:

“If any of you wants to be My follower, you must give up your own way, take up your cross, and follow Me.” (Mark 8:34, NLT)

Being a disciple is not just about believing in Jesus; it’s about becoming like Him. It means forgiving when it’s hard, loving when it’s inconvenient, and trusting God even when we don’t understand.

The Call Is for You

The call to follow Jesus is as real today as it was 2,000 years ago. He still says, “Follow Me.” Will you respond?

To follow Jesus is to make Him your Lord, learn from Him daily, and live a life that reflects His love and truth. It’s the greatest adventure you will ever embark on.

Are you willing to say “yes” to His call?

Posted in Bible, Church, God, Jesus, Worship | Tagged disciple, follow Him, follow Jesus, humility, invitation, learning, Lord, love, prayer, pursue, rest, say yes, serving, Surrender, the call, truth | Leave a comment

Worship Team: Overcoming Insecurities

Posted on February 19, 2025 by Mark Cole

Insecurity is something every worship team member faces at some point. Whether it’s doubting your musical ability, feeling like you don’t belong, or comparing yourself to others, insecurity can be a real struggle. If left unchecked, it can hinder your worship, your confidence, and your ability to serve your church well.

The good news? God doesn’t want us to live in insecurity. He calls us to trust Him, walk in confidence, and serve with joy. Here are some biblical principles and practical steps to overcome insecurity as a worship team member.

1. Remember Who You’re Worshiping

Worship is about God, not us. When we focus too much on ourselves—our performance, our mistakes, or what others think—we lose sight of why we are there.

Scripture: “Fixing our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith.” (Hebrews 12:2)

Action Step: Before every rehearsal or service, take a moment to shift your focus to God. Pray, worship privately, and remind yourself that your purpose is to glorify Him, not to impress people.

2. Recognize That God Called You

If you are serving on the worship team, it’s because God has given you a gift and an opportunity. Your role is not an accident. He doesn’t call the perfect—He equips those He calls.

Scripture: “For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.” (Ephesians 2:10)

Action Step: Instead of dwelling on your weaknesses, thank God for the opportunity to serve. Trust that He has placed you on the team for a reason.

3. Stop Comparing Yourself to Others

Comparison is one of the biggest sources of insecurity. Whether you feel inferior to someone more talented or superior to someone struggling, comparison always leads to discouragement or pride.

Scripture: “Pay careful attention to your own work, for then you will get the satisfaction of a job well done, and you won’t need to compare yourself to anyone else.” (Galatians 6:4 NLT)

Action Step: Celebrate the strengths of others instead of envying them. Focus on being the best version of who God created YOU to be.

4. Let God’s Truth Replace Your Fears

The enemy loves to whisper lies like, “You’re not good enough,” or “You’ll mess up.” But God’s truth says otherwise.

Scripture: “Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.” (John 8:32)

Action Step: Write down scriptures that counteract your fears. When insecurity creeps in, replace it with truth.

5. Prepare and Practice with Excellence

Sometimes insecurity comes from simply not being prepared. The more confident you are in your skill, the less room there is for doubt.

Scripture: “Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters.” (Colossians 3:23)

Action Step: Rehearse at home, listen to your songs, and show up prepared. The more effort you put in, the more at peace you’ll feel.

6. Encourage One Another

Sometimes we feel insecure because we don’t hear encouragement from others. The best way to change that culture is to start being an encourager yourself!

Scripture: “Therefore encourage one another and build each other up.” (1 Thessalonians 5:11)

Action Step: Each week, find at least one person on your team to encourage. A simple “You played great today” or “I love worshiping with you” can make a huge difference.

7. Trust God with Your Weaknesses

You will make mistakes. You won’t always feel 100% confident. But God’s grace is greater than your imperfections. He is strong where we are weak.

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

Action Step: Instead of fearing failure, see every challenge as an opportunity to rely more on God. Surrender your weaknesses to Him in prayer.

Final Thought

Your role in worship is not about perfection—it’s about obedience, faithfulness, and a heart fully surrendered to God. Let go of insecurity and step into the confidence that comes from knowing who you are in Christ. When you focus on Him, you’ll find freedom, joy, and a deeper love for worship.

What about you? Have you struggled with insecurity on the worship team? What has helped you overcome it? Share in the comments below!

Posted in Bible, Church, God, Jesus, Leadership, Music, Wisdom, Worship | Tagged All your heart, compare, comparison, encourage, excellence, focus on God, freedom, gift, God's handiwork, insecure, Jesus, peace, prepared, purpose, reason, rehearse, serve, strengths, trust God, truth, worship team | Leave a comment

Worship Leaders: Lessons from the Prayer Life of Jesus

Posted on February 18, 2025 by Mark Cole

As worship leaders, our public ministry should always flow from our private devotion. If there’s anyone we should learn from when it comes to prayer, it’s Jesus. His life was marked by constant communication with the Father. He didn’t just teach on prayer—He lived it.

Let’s explore Jesus’ prayer habits and how they can shape our lives and ministries as worship leaders.

1. Jesus Prayed Early and Often

“Very early in the morning, while it was still dark, Jesus got up, left the house, and went off to a solitary place, where He prayed.” – Mark 1:35

Jesus made prayer a priority, even in His busiest seasons. After healing many and ministering late into the night, He rose early to be with the Father.