When Things Seem Impossible—Trusting God Anyway

Posted on April 25, 2025 by Mark Cole

“What is impossible for people is possible with God.” — Luke 18:27

We’ve all faced moments that looked completely hopeless.

Maybe it was a financial crisis.
A dream that seemed delayed too long.
A relationship that appeared too broken to mend.
Or a ministry door that just wouldn’t open—no matter how hard you knocked.

When Jesus said, “What is impossible for people is possible with God,” He wasn’t offering a feel-good platitude. He was giving us a foundational truth to build our lives and ministries on. He was reminding us that our limits are not God’s limits.

When the Odds Are Against You

Some of the most significant miracles in Scripture—and in life—happen when people run out of options:

  • Moses had a sea in front of him and an army behind.
  • David stood before a giant with only a sling and some stones.
  • The disciples had five loaves and two fish for thousands.
  • Jesus lay dead in a tomb—until He wasn’t.

God often waits until we’re at the end of ourselves so we can see it was Him all along.

A Worship Leader’s Reality

Over the years, I’ve had many times when I had no idea how things were going to work out. Helping a worship team with few resources… leading worship in a country where I didn’t speak the language… or walking through seasons of discouragement where I wondered what was going on.

But God has never failed me. Not once.

I’ve seen Him:

  • Raise up musicians where there were none.
  • Breathe life into dry bones—literally and spiritually.
  • Provide finances out of nowhere.
  • Heal what doctors couldn’t.
  • Bring clarity when confusion reigned.

He is still the God of the impossible.

What To Do When You’re Facing the Impossible

Here are five steps I’ve learned when I’m staring down something that seems too big:

  1. Acknowledge the reality – Faith doesn’t deny the facts; it looks beyond them to God. Be honest with God and others about what you’re facing.
  2. Remind yourself who God is – Go back to Scripture. Read the stories of impossibilities turned into miracles. Speak truth out loud.
  3. Pray boldly – Don’t pray small prayers when you serve a big God. Ask for the impossible.
  4. Act in obedience – Even when it’s scary. Trust opens doors that fear keeps shut.
  5. Give thanks in advance – Praise is the language of faith. Worship before the breakthrough.

A Final Word

Whether you’re leading a team, raising a family, walking through a health scare, or waiting for provision—you are not alone.

What you can’t do, God can.
What you can’t see, God sees.
What you can’t fix, God can heal.
And what feels impossible? God specializes in that.

So today—hold on. Trust again. Pray again. Worship again.
And remember Jesus’ words:
“What is impossible for people is possible with God.”

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The One Thing You Still Lack

Posted on April 24, 2025 by Mark Cole

Learning from Jesus’ Challenge to the Rich Young Ruler

We all love the moments when Jesus encourages and uplifts—but every now and then, He speaks a hard word that pierces our hearts. One of the most sobering examples is found in Luke 18, when a wealthy religious man asks Jesus, “What must I do to inherit eternal life?”

Jesus first points to the commandments, which the man claims he has kept since childhood. But then Jesus says something unexpected—and deeply personal:

“There is still one thing you haven’t done. Sell all your possessions and give the money to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven. Then come, follow Me.” (Luke 18:22 NLT)

It’s a gut-punch moment. And it’s meant to be.

The Idol Beneath the Surface

Jesus wasn’t being harsh—He was being truthful. He saw that wealth had become this man’s identity, security, and source of pride. Despite his outward obedience, there was one thing that stood between him and full surrender: his possessions.

Jesus doesn’t ask everyone to sell everything. But He will always call out whatever competes with our allegiance to Him. For some, it’s money. For others, it’s control, comfort, recognition, or relationships. We all have that one thing we’re tempted to keep on the throne of our hearts.

A Loving Invitation

What moves me deeply about this passage is that Jesus doesn’t just say, “Give it all away.” He follows that command with an invitation:
“Then come, follow Me.”

He’s not just asking for sacrifice—He’s offering relationship. He’s not just asking us to give something up—He’s inviting us to step into something greater.
Treasure in heaven. A walk with Jesus. Life that is truly life.

The Tragedy of a Divided Heart

Verse 23 says the man “became very sad, for he was very rich.” That may be one of the saddest lines in all the Gospels. Jesus offered him eternity—and he walked away because the price seemed too high.

Let that sink in: He walked away from Jesus, not because he didn’t believe, but because he wasn’t willing to let go.

What About Us?

As I reflect on this story, I hear Jesus’ words gently searching my own heart:
“Mark, is there anything you still lack?”

Maybe you’ve felt that too. You’re doing your best to live for God, but there’s something He’s been nudging you to lay down:

  • A private habit that’s begun to take root.
  • A dream you’ve elevated above obedience.
  • A relationship that draws you away from Christ.
  • A comfort zone you’re afraid to step out of.

The truth is, we all have “one things” at different points in our journey. The question is—will we let Jesus lovingly challenge them?

Following Jesus is Always Worth It

Let me encourage you today: Whatever Jesus asks you to give up, He’s not trying to take something from you—He’s trying to set you free.
Free to follow.
Free to love.
Free to walk with Him with nothing holding you back.

Let’s not be like the rich young ruler who walked away sad. Let’s be like the disciples who dropped their nets and followed Him.

Let’s say yes—even when it costs us. Because Jesus is worth everything.

Have you ever had a “one thing” moment with God? I’d love to hear your story. Feel free to share in the comments or message me directly. Let’s keep encouraging one another to follow Jesus fully—no holding back.

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Secrets to Hearing the Voice of God

Posted on April 23, 2025 by Mark Cole

One of the most beautiful stories in Scripture is the moment young Samuel hears God’s voice for the first time. It’s both mysterious and practical—a divine encounter that began in the stillness of night and was shaped by wise mentorship. Samuel didn’t recognize God’s voice at first, and that gives hope to all of us. If even a prophet had to learn to hear God’s voice, then so can we.

Here are five secrets to hearing the voice of God, drawn from Samuel’s experience and echoed throughout Scripture.

1. Be in the Right Place

Samuel was in the temple, sleeping near the Ark of God. He was close to the presence of the Lord, even before he recognized it. There’s something powerful about being in the right environment—one that honors God’s presence. That could be your quiet time space, your church community, or simply a posture of heart that says, “Here I am, Lord.”

Where you place yourself matters.

“The Lord called Samuel.” (1 Samuel 3:4)

2. Be Willing to Learn

Samuel didn’t yet know the Lord personally—yet. He was teachable and humble, and when Eli gave him direction, he obeyed it without hesitation. Sometimes, God speaks through the mentors in our lives before we ever hear His direct voice.

Who are the Elis in your life? Stay open to correction and counsel.

“Samuel did not yet know the Lord because he had never had a message from the Lord before.” (1 Samuel 3:7)

3. Listen More Than You Speak

Eli’s advice was simple and profound: “If He calls you, say, ‘Speak, Lord, your servant is listening.’” The posture of a servant is one of attention and surrender. Not “Lord, here’s what I need” but “Lord, I’m listening.”

God often speaks in a still, small voice—and we need still, quiet hearts to hear it.

“Speak, your servant is listening.” (1 Samuel 3:10)

4. Be Ready for Obedience

Samuel wasn’t just hearing for the sake of hearing. The message he received from God was heavy, even hard. Yet he delivered it with faithfulness. Hearing God’s voice leads to action. God doesn’t speak just to fill the silence—He speaks to call, guide, correct, and commission.

If you want to hear God’s voice, be ready to obey what He says.

5. Grow in Hearing Over Time

Samuel’s prophetic ministry began that night, but it matured over years. The Bible says that “as Samuel grew up, the Lord was with him, and everything Samuel said proved to be reliable.” (1 Samuel 3:19) Hearing God is a skill that develops with time, Scripture, prayer, and relationship.

Hearing leads to knowing—and knowing leads to confidence.

Final Thoughts

We often crave a dramatic word from heaven, but more often, God speaks in the quiet moments of devotion, the gentle whispers in our spirit, and the confirmations through His Word and godly counsel.

Like Samuel, we can say, “Speak, Lord, your servant is listening.”

Let’s position ourselves near His presence, stay teachable, quiet our hearts, obey what we hear, and keep growing.

He’s still speaking. Are you listening?

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Why God Is Our Rock

Posted on April 23, 2025 by Mark Cole

“There is no one holy like the Lord; there is no one besides You; there is no Rock like our God.”
— 1 Samuel 2:2 (NLT)

When Hannah prayed these words, she had just handed over her long-awaited son, Samuel, to serve in the temple. Her prayer wasn’t full of sorrow—it was bursting with joy, worship, and deep trust. She had experienced firsthand what it meant to lean on the Rock who is God.

What Does It Mean That God Is Our Rock?

In Scripture, when God is called a “Rock,” it’s not just poetic—it’s powerfully personal. Rocks don’t move. They’re stable. They offer shelter. They’re strong and reliable when everything else feels uncertain.

Here are four reasons why God is our Rock, and why that matters today.

1. He Is Unshakable in a Shaky World

Everything around us can change—relationships, health, finances, even our emotions. But God never does. He is the same yesterday, today, and forever (Hebrews 13:8). When everything else is shifting sand, He remains steadfast and secure.

When Hannah cried out to the Lord in desperation for a child, she learned to trust Him—not just for a child, but for her future. Her prayer echoes the heart of someone who found footing on something solid—Someone who doesn’t move when life does.

2. He Is a Refuge in Times of Trouble

David, another person who called God his Rock (Psalm 18:2), often ran for his life—but he never ran alone. He ran to God. When enemies rose up, when betrayal came, when fear gripped him—David hid in the spiritual shelter of the Rock.

Do you need shelter today? The Rock of Ages invites you to hide in Him. Not to escape your problems, but to face them with peace and strength from a higher place.

3. He Is Faithful Through Every Season

Seasons change, and so do we. Our strength fades. Our understanding fails. But God doesn’t falter. Like a mountain that stands through generations, He remains trustworthy, consistent, and present.

At age 70, I’ve learned that God’s faithfulness is more than a church slogan—it’s a lived reality. Whether you’re in your 20s wondering what the future holds, or in your 70s wondering how to finish well, God doesn’t change. He’s the Rock you can build your life on.

4. He Is the Foundation for Everything That Matters

Jesus said, “Anyone who listens to My teaching and follows it is wise, like a person who builds a house on solid rock” (Matthew 7:24). The winds will come. The floods will rise. But the house stands because of what it’s built on.

You can build your faith, your family, your life, and your legacy on Jesus—the Rock of our salvation. Everything else will eventually crumble. But He will not.

Final Thought: There Is No Rock Like Our God

Hannah’s declaration is still true today:
There is no one like Him.
There is no Rock like our God.

If life feels unstable, you’re not alone—but you don’t have to stay stuck. Plant your feet again on the One who is higher, stronger, and more faithful than anything or anyone else.

Song: God Is My Rock
Words & Music by Mark Cole

Chorus
God is my Rock
He’s my mighty fortress
God is the strength
Of my life
God is my Rock
He’s my mighty fortress
God is the strength of my life

Verse 1
No matter what
The future holds for me
No matter how dark
The troubles may seem
I know the One
Who walks beside me each day
And Jesus Christ
Is all that I need

Verse 2
I will not fear
Tho’ darkness comes my way
I will be bold
And stand for truth
Day by day
For He’s the One
Who leads me by the hand
And Jesus Christ
Is all that I need

Let this be your anthem today. In every season, storm, and shadow—God is My Rock.

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He Is Holy — Enthroned on Our Praises

Posted on April 22, 2025 by Mark Cole

Psalm 22:3 – “Yet You are holy, enthroned on the praises of Israel

David’s words in Psalm 22 are full of raw emotion. He begins with the haunting cry, “My God, my God, why have You forsaken me?”—words Jesus himself quoted on the cross. It’s a psalm of pain, isolation, and desperation. Yet, even in the midst of suffering, David declares a truth that anchors him:

“Yet You are holy, enthroned on the praises of Israel.” (Psalm 22:3, ESV)

This one sentence reminds us of something powerful: God doesn’t stop being holy or worthy, even when we feel forsaken or forgotten.

1. God Is Holy – No Matter What

“Yet You are holy.”

That small word, “yet,” is doing heavy lifting. David is honest about his pain. He feels abandoned. But he doesn’t let his feelings shape his theology—he lets God’s character shape his perspective.

In times of joy or grief, certainty or confusion, God remains holy. Set apart. Perfect. Good. Trustworthy. He doesn’t waver based on how we feel or what we see around us.

Our emotions may rise and fall, but the holiness of God is our anchor.

2. He Is Enthroned on Praise

The phrase “enthroned on the praises of Israel” is beautiful and mysterious. What does it mean for God to be enthroned on praise?

Picture this: as God’s people gather to worship—whether in song, in prayer, or in lifestyle—it creates a throne for His presence. Praise becomes a place where God rules, where He takes up residence.

It’s not that God needs our praise to exist. But there is something divine that happens when we praise: we welcome His reign into our lives and situations.

When we worship, we’re not just singing songs—we’re creating space for the King to sit and rule. In other words, praise invites His Kingdom to come.

3. Worship Re-centers Us

David was in a storm of emotion. But by affirming God’s holiness and acknowledging His place on the throne of praise, he shifted his focus. Worship has that power.

As a worship leader and believer, I’ve often seen this:

  • A tired heart is lifted through singing truth.
  • A distracted mind is quieted in His presence.
  • A discouraged spirit finds new strength by declaring who God is.

This is why worship is more than a warm-up before the sermon. It’s where heaven meets earth, where God’s people proclaim:
“You are still God. You are still good. You are still holy.”

4. Make Room for His Throne

Whether you’re in your kitchen, your car, or a church sanctuary—your praise builds a throne.

  • In the hospital room: build Him a throne.
  • In your daily commute: build Him a throne.
  • In your sorrow and joy: build Him a throne.

God doesn’t always change our circumstances right away, but He always changes us when we worship. And often, when He is enthroned in praise, His presence brings peace, direction, and healing.

Final Thought

David shows us that we don’t have to pretend everything is okay to worship. In fact, worship is often most powerful when it rises from a broken heart. In Psalm 22, David moves from despair to hope—and the turning point is praise.

Today, no matter where you find yourself, remember this:

He is holy. He is enthroned on your praise. And He is worthy—always.

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The Radical Call of Forgiveness – What Jesus Teaches Us

Posted on April 22, 2025 by Mark Cole

“If another believer sins, rebuke that person; then if there is repentance, forgive. Even if that person wrongs you seven times a day and each time turns again and asks forgiveness, you must forgive.”
— Luke 17:3–4 (NLT)

Jesus never made forgiveness optional. He made it foundational.

In these few verses, Jesus reveals the heart of the gospel—mercy that flows from the Father to us, and then from us to others. It’s one of the most challenging commands He ever gave: to forgive someone not just once, but repeatedly—even seven times a day.

The Heart Behind the Words

Jesus knew something we often forget: that forgiveness isn’t just for the offender—it’s for the soul of the one who’s been offended. Unforgiveness poisons our hearts. It makes us prisoners of resentment, bitterness, and pride.

But forgiveness releases. It frees. It heals. It imitates the heart of our Father.

Forgiveness is not minimizing the offense. Notice Jesus says, “Rebuke that person.” We are not called to ignore wrong or pretend it didn’t happen. We’re called to address it in love. But once there is repentance—even if it happens again and again—Jesus says, forgive.

Forgiveness Is a Lifestyle, Not a Moment

This kind of forgiveness isn’t natural. It’s supernatural.

Most of us can forgive a single offense, especially if the person is genuinely sorry. But what if they do it again… and again… and again? That’s where we reach the end of our human ability. That’s where we need the Spirit of Jesus working within us.

Peter once asked Jesus how many times he had to forgive—thinking he was being generous when he offered “seven times.” Jesus responded, “Not seven times, but seventy times seven” (Matthew 18:22).

In other words, don’t count. Just keep forgiving.

Forgiveness Reflects the Gospel

At the cross, Jesus forgave those who crucified Him—while they were doing it.
“Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do.” (Luke 23:34)

If we’ve received that kind of mercy, how can we withhold it from others?

Paul echoes this truth in Ephesians 4:32:
“Be kind to each other, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, just as God through Christ has forgiven you.”

Our forgiveness of others is not based on how deserving they are—it’s based on how deeply we’ve been forgiven.

But What If They Hurt Me Again?

This is where the teaching of Jesus becomes most real. When someone breaks your trust or wounds your heart more than once, forgiveness can feel impossible.

But forgiveness doesn’t mean forgetting. And it doesn’t mean pretending there’s no pain. Forgiveness doesn’t always restore the relationship to what it was. Reconciliation requires repentance and rebuilding of trust.

What Jesus calls us to is a heart posture: to be ready to forgive every time there is genuine repentance. It may cost you. But it cost Jesus everything.

Final Thoughts

In a world quick to cancel and slow to forgive, we as followers of Christ are called to something greater. Forgiveness is not weakness—it is the strongest expression of love we can offer. It’s what makes our message credible. It’s what keeps our hearts tender. And it’s what allows us to walk in freedom.

Let’s be people who forgive—again and again.

Reflection Questions:

  1. Is there someone in your life who has wronged you and needs your forgiveness?
  2. What’s holding you back from offering that forgiveness?
  3. Have you experienced the joy and release of being forgiven—by God or by someone else?

Let Jesus shape your heart today. Let mercy win.

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“Where You Go, I Will Go”: Ruth’s Remarkable Devotion

Posted on April 22, 2025 by Mark Cole

“Don’t ask me to leave you and turn back. Wherever you go, I will go; wherever you live, I will live. Your people will be my people, and your God will be my God.”
—Ruth 1:16 (NLT)

This verse from the Book of Ruth is one of the most beautiful expressions of love and loyalty found in the Bible. Spoken by Ruth to her mother-in-law Naomi, these words have echoed through centuries—often quoted at weddings and in moments of deep commitment.

But have you ever wondered why Ruth was so determined to follow Naomi?

Naomi had just experienced devastating loss: her husband and both her sons had died in Moab. She urged her daughters-in-law, Orpah and Ruth, to return to their families and rebuild their lives. Orpah tearfully said goodbye. Ruth, however, clung to Naomi.

Why such fierce devotion?

1. A Love Rooted in Relationship

Ruth and Naomi had lived together for years. Through good times and grief, Ruth had seen Naomi’s heart—her faith, her perseverance, her integrity. Ruth wasn’t staying out of obligation. She loved Naomi deeply. She chose relationship over comfort, loyalty over logic.

In a world that often prizes convenience over commitment, Ruth’s words are a refreshing reminder: covenant love is more powerful than circumstances.

2. A Desire for God

Ruth didn’t just say, “I’ll go where you go.” She said, “Your God will be my God.” This is a conversion statement. Ruth, a Moabite who grew up worshiping other gods, was choosing to follow the God of Israel.

What made her take that step? Likely, it was Naomi’s life—a living testimony of God’s faithfulness even in sorrow. Even when Naomi felt bitter, God was still at work in her story. Ruth saw something real. Something worth following.

When we live authentically—even through hardship—others can encounter God through us.

3. A Step Into the Unknown

Ruth was giving up everything familiar—her homeland, her culture, even her chance at remarriage in Moab. She chose uncertainty over security. Why? Because she believed something better was waiting.

It reminds me that faith often calls us to take steps that don’t make sense in the natural. Ruth had no idea that her decision would lead to Boaz, to redemption, and to being grafted into the lineage of King David—and ultimately Jesus.

But God did.

4. God’s Hand in Every Season

Behind Ruth’s determination was the unseen hand of God. He was weaving a story far greater than she could imagine. Her loyalty, her faith, and her boldness would change history.

God still works that way today.

You may feel like your decisions, your loyalty, or your sacrifice are going unnoticed—but God sees. And He is able to take your small, faithful steps and use them in His redemptive plan.

Final Thought

Ruth’s story reminds us that our faithfulness matters. Whether it’s to our families, our church, our calling, or to God Himself—when we say, “Where you go, I will go,” we’re echoing a kind of love that reflects the very heart of God.

Where might God be asking you to take a step of faith today?

Like Ruth, you may not know the outcome—but you can trust the One who writes the story.

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The Role of Music in the Bible

Posted on April 21, 2025 by Mark Cole

“Rise up, O Lord, in all Your power.
With music and singing we celebrate Your mighty acts.”
—Psalm 21:13 (NLT)

Music is one of the most powerful forces God has given humanity. It moves the heart, stirs the soul, lifts the spirit, and draws us into the presence of God. In Psalm 21:13, King David—himself a skilled musician—wraps up a song of praise with a simple but profound declaration: “With music and singing we celebrate your mighty acts.”

Music isn’t just a background soundtrack in the Bible—it’s central to the life of God’s people. It’s not an add-on to worship. It is an integral part of God’s design for worship. From Genesis to Revelation, we see music used to honor God, communicate truth, express emotion, and bring about spiritual breakthrough.

1. Music as a Response to God’s Power

The context of Psalm 21 is victory. David is celebrating the strength and salvation that God has given him as king. But instead of boasting in his own ability, David responds with music and singing. Why? Because music is a fitting way to celebrate God’s mighty acts. It combines truth with emotion. It allows theology to sing.

We see this throughout Scripture:

  • Exodus 15 – After crossing the Red Sea, Moses and Miriam lead Israel in the Song of Deliverance: “I will sing to the Lord, for He is highly exalted.”
  • 1 Chronicles 15-16 – When the ark of the covenant is brought to Jerusalem, David appoints singers and musicians to give thanks and praise.
  • Revelation 5 – In heaven, saints and angels sing a new song: “Worthy is the Lamb!”

God’s power demands a response—and music is often the most immediate and heartfelt way to offer it.

2. Music as a Tool for Teaching and Remembering

In Deuteronomy 31, God instructs Moses to write down a song and teach it to the people of Israel so they won’t forget His words. Music has always been a powerful tool for memorizing truth.

Even today, worship music embeds Scripture deep into our hearts. Songs like “The Blessing,” “Holy Forever,” and “10,000 Reasons” help worshipers internalize the character and promises of God. In the Psalms alone, theology and music walk hand in hand—truth wrapped in melody.

3. Music as Spiritual Warfare

When King Jehoshaphat faced a vast enemy army, God instructed him to send the musicians ahead of the soldiers (2 Chronicles 20). As they sang, “Give thanks to the Lord; His love endures forever,” God confused the enemy and brought victory.

There’s something spiritually significant about music. It can disarm darkness, stir faith, and release joy. In Acts 16, Paul and Silas were singing hymns in prison—and the chains literally fell off. Worship is warfare. Music is a weapon.

4. Music as a Gift to the Church

In the New Testament, Paul exhorts the church:

“Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly, teaching and admonishing one another with all wisdom, singing psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs, with thankfulness in your hearts to God.”
—Colossians 3:16

Music isn’t just vertical—it’s horizontal. It teaches. It strengthens. It unifies. When a church lifts its voice in song, it strengthens its bond in spirit.

5. Music and the Heart of the Worshiper

Finally, music isn’t just about the sound—it’s about the heart. God isn’t impressed by our chords, harmonies, or production values if our hearts are far from Him. But when music flows from a heart of love and awe, it becomes a sweet offering to the Lord.

David was called a man after God’s heart—and he was a musician. His psalms show us raw honesty, deep worship, and vibrant faith. That’s what God is looking for.

Final Thoughts

Psalm 21:13 gives us a powerful picture of worship: “Rise up, O Lord, in all Your power. With music and singing we celebrate Your mighty acts.”

Music is not just a cultural expression. It’s a kingdom strategy. It’s biblical. It’s powerful. And it’s one of the most beautiful ways we can respond to our amazing God.

So let’s keep the song going—on Sundays, in our cars, in our homes, and in our hearts.

Let everything that has breath praise the Lord.

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What Does the Bible Say About Divorce?

Posted on April 21, 2025 by Mark Cole

Divorce touches nearly every church, family, and friendship circle. Whether through personal experience or walking alongside someone else, the pain of a broken marriage is something many have felt. As followers of Jesus, it’s important that we understand what the Bible teaches about divorce—and just as importantly—what it teaches about grace.

Let’s explore God’s heart for marriage, His words about divorce, and the hope He offers for every story.

God’s Design for Marriage

From the beginning, God designed marriage to be a covenant between one man and one woman—a sacred, lifelong union.

“That is why a man leaves his father and mother and is united to his wife, and they become one flesh.”
— Genesis 2:24

Jesus affirms this in the Gospels:

“What God has joined together, let no one separate.”
— Matthew 19:6

Marriage is more than a contract; it’s a holy covenant. It reflects the love, faithfulness, and unity God wants to share with His people. But we live in a fallen world. Marriages struggle. People fail. And sometimes, that covenant breaks.

What Did Jesus Say About Divorce?

Jesus addressed divorce directly, and His words are challenging:

“Anyone who divorces his wife and marries another woman commits adultery, and the man who marries a divorced woman commits adultery.”
— Luke 16:18

That sounds absolute—but in other passages, Jesus allows for one clear exception:

“I tell you that anyone who divorces his wife, except for sexual immorality, and marries another woman commits adultery.”
— Matthew 19:9

The Greek word used here (porneia) includes adultery and other forms of sexual betrayal. Jesus teaches that this kind of unfaithfulness breaks the marriage covenant and allows for divorce.

What Did Paul Say About Divorce?

In 1 Corinthians 7, the Apostle Paul adds another scenario: abandonment by an unbelieving spouse.

“But if the unbelieving partner separates, let it be so. In such cases the brother or sister is not enslaved.”
— 1 Corinthians 7:15

This has become known as the “abandonment clause.” In situations where a non-believing spouse walks away from the marriage, Paul says the believer is not bound.

What About Remarriage?

Jesus’ strong words about remarriage—especially when it follows a divorce without biblical grounds—should be taken seriously. However, the context matters. If a divorce was biblically permitted (due to adultery or abandonment), many believe remarriage can be entered into with a clear conscience.

Others hold to a stricter view, encouraging celibacy after divorce unless reconciliation is possible.

In either case, God calls us to honor marriage and seek His wisdom, counsel, and peace before entering into a new covenant.

Does God Forgive Divorce?

Yes. Divorce is not the unpardonable sin.

Jesus forgave the woman caught in adultery and offered her a new path:

“Neither do I condemn you. Go now and leave your life of sin.”
— John 8:11

The gospel is for the brokenhearted, the bruised, the ashamed, and the divorced. If you’ve walked through divorce—whether biblical or not—there is healing, restoration, and forgiveness in Jesus Christ.

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

How Should We Respond?

As believers, we are called to uphold the beauty and sacredness of marriage, to walk in truth, and to extend grace.

If you are married:

  • Protect your covenant.
  • Pursue humility, communication, and forgiveness.
  • Invite God into the center of your relationship.

If you are divorced:

  • Bring your pain and story to Jesus.
  • Seek godly counsel and healing.
  • Know that you are not disqualified from God’s love or His purpose.

If you’re walking with someone through a divorce:

  • Be a voice of compassion, not condemnation.
  • Remind them that God sees, loves, and restores.

In Every Story, There Is Hope

Marriage is precious to God. Divorce is painful. But grace runs deeper. The Church must hold both truth and compassion together. We need to be people who cherish marriage, stand for righteousness, and extend the mercy and healing of Jesus to those who are hurting.

No matter your past, your story isn’t over.

There is grace for today and hope for tomorrow.

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Faithful in Little Things: Lessons from the Life of Joseph

Posted on April 21, 2025 by Mark Cole

“If you are faithful in little things, you will be faithful in large ones.
But if you are dishonest in little things, you won’t be honest with greater responsibilities.”
— Luke 16:10 (NLT)

Some of the greatest lessons in leadership, faith, and integrity are found not in the spotlight, but in the shadows—when no one seems to be watching and nothing seems to be changing.

Joseph, the son of Jacob, shows us what this looks like. His life is a living example of Jesus’ principle: if you’re faithful in the little things, you’ll be trusted with greater ones.

1. Joseph Was Faithful in Every Season

Joseph’s journey started with dreams of greatness, but it took many years—and many trials—before those dreams were fulfilled. Along the way, he was:

  • Sold as a slave by his own brothers
  • Falsely accused and imprisoned
  • Forgotten by those he helped

Yet through every stage, Joseph remained faithful. In Potiphar’s house, he worked with excellence and integrity. In prison, he served the warden and cared for the other inmates. He didn’t wait until he was in the palace to be diligent—he lived faithfully in the pit and the prison.

2. Faithfulness Is Revealed in Private, Rewarded in Public

Joseph didn’t cut corners. He didn’t complain his way through hardship. He simply did what was right—even when it didn’t seem to lead anywhere.

And then, in a single moment, everything changed.

He was called from the prison to interpret Pharaoh’s dream. And because of the wisdom and faithfulness he’d cultivated over years, Pharaoh put him in charge of all Egypt.

Joseph went from prisoner to prime minister, not because he schemed or self-promoted—but because God saw he was faithful in the little things.

3. Faithfulness Builds Trust and Releases Favor

When people see consistency, honesty, and humility in your character over time, they begin to trust you with more. That’s exactly what happened with Joseph.

  • Potiphar trusted him with his household.
  • The prison warden trusted him with the inmates.
  • Pharaoh trusted him with a nation.

This wasn’t luck—it was the result of a life lived with integrity. Joseph didn’t have to chase influence. His character attracted it.

4. God Uses Faithfulness to Shape Your Destiny

Joseph didn’t know how long the valley would last. He didn’t know how or when God would lift him up. But he stayed faithful anyway. And God was using every season to prepare him.

When the famine came, Joseph wasn’t just a powerful leader—he was a wise and compassionate one. His faithful character made him ready for the responsibility that would one day save nations… and even reconcile him with the very brothers who betrayed him.

Final Thoughts

Maybe today you feel stuck in a small or forgotten place. Maybe you’re doing good work, but no one seems to notice. Don’t lose heart.

Joseph’s story reminds us: God sees every act of faithfulness.

You don’t have to strive to be seen or promoted. Just be faithful—right where you are. Show up with integrity. Serve with joy. Trust God with the timing.

Because in God’s Kingdom, the path to greater things always begins with the little things.

“Well done, good and faithful servant! You have been faithful with a few things; I will put you in charge of many things.” – Matthew 25:21

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