But As for Me and My Family, We Will Serve the Lord

Posted on April 13, 2025 by Mark Cole

“But if you refuse to serve the Lord, then choose today whom you will serve. Would you prefer the gods your ancestors served beyond the Euphrates, or will it be the gods of the Amorites in whose land you now live? But as for me and my family, we will serve the Lord.” — Joshua 24:15 (NLT)

Joshua’s powerful declaration near the end of his life has inspired generations of believers. It’s more than a bold statement—it’s a line in the sand, a spiritual compass, and a legacy-defining moment.

As a father, husband, worship leader, and pastor, I’ve returned to this verse many times. Now at 70 years old, I think more deeply about what it means to finish well. Joshua wasn’t just talking about himself; he was speaking over his family, his household, and the generations that would follow.

Let’s unpack what this means for us today.

1. Choose This Day

Joshua begins with a challenge: “Choose today whom you will serve.”

Every generation must decide. It’s not enough to ride the coattails of our parents’ or grandparents’ faith. Joshua knew that. He laid out the choices: the gods of the past or the God who had delivered them.

Serving the Lord isn’t something we drift into. It’s a daily, intentional decision.

🔹 “Lord, today—again—I choose You.”

2. Leadership Starts at Home

“But as for me and my family…”

This isn’t just a personal declaration—it’s a family vision. Joshua took spiritual responsibility for his home. He wasn’t waiting for someone else to lead. He wasn’t outsourcing the discipleship of his household to a priest or prophet.

As spiritual leaders—whether we’re parents, grandparents, or mentors—our call is to influence our families toward God. Not by force or fear, but by example.

🔹 Your home can be a house of worship, a house of peace, a house of purpose.

3. Serving the Lord is a Lifelong Journey

Joshua made this declaration at the end of his life. He had seen God move in incredible ways—from the walls of Jericho falling to the sun standing still. Through battles, miracles, and wilderness wandering, his faith was proven again and again.

But even at the finish line, Joshua wasn’t passive. He was still choosing to serve the Lord. Still urging others to follow. Still modeling faithfulness.

🔹 No matter your age or season—your declaration still matters.

4. The Power of a Family Legacy

This declaration shaped the destiny of Joshua’s household. And it can shape ours too.

When we say, “As for me and my family, we will serve the Lord,” we’re setting a standard for what matters most in our home. We’re building a spiritual legacy our children and grandchildren can build on.

Not perfection. But direction.

🔹 Our kids don’t need perfect parents—they need present parents with a passionate pursuit of God.

5. Serving the Lord Together

One of the greatest joys of my life is seeing my children and grandchildren worship God. My daughter and granddaughter leading worship, my son and his wife helping with worship in their church, and my grandson playing acoustic guitar and singing—it fills my heart.

We’re not just a family in ministry. We are a family serving the Lord together. That unity didn’t happen by accident. It came through intentional choices, a lot of prayer, consistent worship, and a home centered on Jesus.

Final Thoughts

Joshua’s declaration is more than a memory verse. It’s a life mission.

In a world of shifting values and blurred lines, may we boldly say:

“But as for me and my family, we will serve the Lord.”

Say it. Live it. Pass it on.

💬 Reflection Questions:

  • What does serving the Lord look like in your family today?
  • Are there any “old gods” or distractions that need to be left behind?
  • What legacy are you building for the next generation?

If this blog encouraged you, share it with a friend or fellow worship leader. Let’s keep calling our families—and ourselves—back to serving the Lord wholeheartedly.

— Mark Cole
Worship Leader • Mentor • Musician
markcole.ca

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

How Did Jesus and the Early Church Pray for the Sick?

Posted on April 12, 2025 by Mark Cole

A New Testament Model for Healing Ministry

In today’s church, we often ask: “How should we pray for the sick?” The best way to answer that is to look at the New Testament pattern. How did Jesus, His disciples, and Paul pray for the sick? What do we actually see in the Gospels and the Book of Acts?

Let’s walk through the clear, consistent approach to healing in the New Testament.

Jesus Healed with Authority and Compassion

Jesus’ ministry was filled with healing. He didn’t pray long prayers. He didn’t plead. He didn’t speculate. He simply spoke with authority, touched with compassion, and expected results.

  • He healed everyone who came to Him: “And He healed all who were sick.” (Matthew 8:16)
  • He laid hands on the sick: “He laid His hands on every one of them and healed them.” (Luke 4:40)
  • He spoke healing directly: “I am willing. Be clean.” (Matthew 8:3)
    “Little girl, I say to you, get up!” (Mark 5:41)
  • He rebuked sickness as if it were an intruder: “He rebuked the fever, and it left her.” (Luke 4:39)

Healing wasn’t peripheral to His ministry — it was central. When John the Baptist asked if Jesus was the Messiah, Jesus answered:

“The blind receive sight, the lame walk… and the good news is preached to the poor.” (Matthew 11:5)

The Apostles Continued Jesus’ Model

After Jesus’ resurrection, His disciples didn’t change the method. Empowered by the Holy Spirit, they continued healing the sick with boldness and clarity.

  • Peter and John at the temple gate: “In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, walk.” (Acts 3:6)
    They didn’t pray — they declared healing in Jesus’ name.
  • Peter’s shadow brought healing: “People brought the sick… so that at least Peter’s shadow might fall on some of them… and all of them were healed.” (Acts 5:15–16)
  • Peter healed Aeneas: “Jesus Christ heals you. Get up.” (Acts 9:34)
    Again, no long prayer — just a confident command in Jesus’ name.
  • The power of Jesus’ name was their foundation: “By faith in the name of Jesus, this man… was made strong.” (Acts 3:16)

Paul Ministered Healing with Faith and Boldness

Paul, though not part of the original Twelve, walked in the same healing power.

  • In Lystra: “Paul looked directly at him, saw that he had faith to be healed and called out, ‘Stand up on your feet!’” (Acts 14:9–10)
    Paul didn’t pray — he spoke healing with authority.
  • On Malta: “Paul went in to see him and, after prayer, placed his hands on him and healed him.” (Acts 28:8)
  • Many others were healed through him: “The rest of the sick on the island came and were cured.” (Acts 28:9)

The Instruction to the Church

The ministry of healing didn’t stop with the apostles. It was passed on to the entire church.

  • Jesus to His disciples: “Heal the sick, raise the dead, cleanse those who have leprosy, drive out demons. Freely you have received; freely give.” (Matthew 10:8)
  • Jesus’ commission to all believers: “These signs will accompany those who believe… they will lay hands on the sick, and they will recover.” (Mark 16:17–18)
  • James’ instruction to the church: “Is anyone among you sick? Let them call the elders of the church to pray over them and anoint them with oil in the name of the Lord.”
    “And the prayer offered in faith will make the sick person well.” (James 5:14–15)

Key Principles from the New Testament Pattern

  1. Healing is part of the Gospel.
    Jesus didn’t separate preaching from healing (Matthew 4:23).
  2. Healing was expected.
    The apostles didn’t hesitate to minister healing when needed.
  3. Authority was exercised, not requested.
    They didn’t ask God to heal; they declared healing in Jesus’ name.
  4. Faith played a key role.
    Jesus often said, “Your faith has made you well.” (Mark 5:34)
  5. Physical touch and direct words were common.
    Hands were laid, fevers rebuked, and healing was spoken.
  6. The outcome was left to God, but obedience was never delayed.
    They ministered boldly, trusting God with the results.

Final Thoughts

The New Testament paints a consistent picture of how the early church ministered to the sick. There was compassion, confidence, and clarity. They didn’t hesitate, speculate, or complicate. They simply obeyed.

Today, we are called to walk in the same authority, not because we are special, but because Jesus has commissioned us. Let’s return to the pattern of the early church — to pray for the sick with faith, boldness, and love, trusting God to do what only He can do.

“Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever.” (Hebrews 13:8)

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

Keep On Asking, Seeking, Knocking

Posted on April 11, 2025 by Mark Cole

Reflections on Luke 11:9–10

Jesus said:

“And so I tell you, keep on asking, and you will receive what you ask for. Keep on seeking, and you will find. Keep on knocking, and the door will be opened to you. For everyone who asks, receives. Everyone who seeks, finds. And to everyone who knocks, the door will be opened.”
— Luke 11:9–10 (NLT)

This is one of those scriptures that has both comforted me and challenged me over the years. I’ve quoted it in prayer, sung it in songs, and written about it—but it still never fails to stretch my faith.

A Call to Persistent Relationship

What strikes me about Jesus’ words here is the present progressive nature of each verb:

  • Keep on asking.
  • Keep on seeking.
  • Keep on knocking.

This isn’t a one-time prayer tossed up into the heavens. It’s a lifestyle. A relationship. Jesus is calling us into ongoing, daily, moment-by-moment communion with our Father.

As a worship leader and pastor, I’ve seen people give up too quickly—on dreams, on healing, on relationships, and sometimes even on their faith. But Jesus invites us into persistence. Not because God is reluctant to respond, but because something powerful happens in the process of pressing in.

Ask: The Posture of Humility

To ask is to admit need.
To ask is to say, “God, I can’t do this without You.”

This goes against the grain of self-sufficiency. But when we ask, we position ourselves as children before a loving Father—just as Jesus taught earlier in this chapter with the Lord’s Prayer: “Give us each day our daily bread.” Not once a year. Daily.

What do you need to ask God for today? Is it wisdom for a decision? Strength for a trial? Provision for a need?
Don’t stop asking.

Seek: The Posture of Hunger

Seeking implies more than asking—it’s about pursuit. It’s active.
To seek is to say, “Lord, I want You. I want Your will. I want Your presence.”

One of the greatest pursuits of the Christian life is not what we can get from God—but God Himself. He said, “You will seek Me and find Me when you search for Me with all your heart” (Jeremiah 29:13).

Are you hungry for more of Him? Do you want to see His kingdom come in your life, in your family, in your church?
Don’t stop seeking.

Knock: The Posture of Boldness

Knocking speaks of opportunity. It’s a metaphor for access, for open doors, for breakthrough. And it’s noisy. It implies faith, courage, even desperation.

Some doors don’t open the first time you knock. But Jesus assures us: keep knocking—and the door will be opened.

Are there doors you’ve been praying about for a long time?
A breakthrough in ministry?
Healing in your body?
Revival in your church?
Don’t stop knocking.

A Promise We Can Trust

Jesus didn’t say, “Maybe you’ll receive, possibly you’ll find, perhaps the door will open.”

He said:

  • Everyone who asks, receives.
  • Everyone who seeks, finds.
  • Everyone who knocks, the door will be opened.

What a promise.

And it’s not based on how spiritual we feel or how good we’ve been. It’s based on the unchanging faithfulness of our Heavenly Father.

Jesus continues in this passage to remind us that even earthly fathers know how to give good gifts to their children. “How much more,” He says, “will your heavenly Father give the Holy Spirit to those who ask Him!”

God’s heart is not stingy. He’s not holding back. He’s inviting us to draw near, stay close, and keep knocking.

Final Thoughts

In leadership and in life—we all face times when God seems silent or distant. But these verses remind us that our persistence is never wasted. Every prayer, every search, every knock is seen by the Father who loves us deeply.

So let’s be a people who keep on asking, keep on seeking, and keep on knocking—not just for what we want, but for more of Him.

Let’s teach this to our teams. Let’s live this out in our churches. And let’s never stop believing that God is working, even when we don’t see it yet.

What are you asking God for today?
Where are you seeking Him?
What doors are you knocking on?

I’d love to hear your thoughts or pray with you. Leave a comment below, or send me a message.

With you on the journey,
Mark

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

Teach Us to Pray” – A Fresh Look at the Lord’s Prayer

Posted on April 11, 2025 by Mark Cole

One day, after watching Jesus finish praying, His disciples made a simple but profound request: “Lord, teach us to pray.”
They had seen something in Jesus—His peace, His connection with the Father, the power that followed His ministry—and they rightly connected it to His prayer life.

Jesus responded by giving them (and us) what we now call the Lord’s Prayer—not just as a script to recite, but as a pattern to live by.

Let’s walk through it together, and may it rekindle your desire to pray—not out of duty, but from delight.

“Our Father in Heaven, hallowed be Your Name”

Prayer begins with relationship, not requests.
God is not a distant deity or a reluctant listener—He is our Father. This is revolutionary. Jesus invites us into the same intimate connection He enjoys with the Father.

Take time to worship. Say His name with love. Recognize who He is—holy, good, faithful. Start your prayer not with problems, but with praise.

Try this today: Before you ask for anything, spend a few moments just telling God what you love about Him.

“Your kingdom come, Your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven.”

This is a surrender moment.
It reminds us that prayer isn’t about bending God to our will, but aligning ourselves with His. It’s a longing for His purposes—in our lives, our families, our churches, our cities—to become reality.

Let this part shape your intercession. Pray for God’s heart to be revealed in the situations you care about.

Ask yourself: What would it look like if heaven’s peace, justice, and love came into this situation? Pray that in.

“Give us today our daily bread.”

This teaches us to depend on God for daily needs—not just food, but wisdom, strength, provision, help.
God delights in providing for His children. You don’t have to beg. You can simply ask.

Notice the word “us”—we’re not just praying for ourselves, but for others. Prayer should expand our hearts toward the needs of the people around us.

Pray today: “Lord, please give me what I need for this day… and help me be part of the answer to someone else’s prayer too.”

“Forgive us our sins, as we forgive those who sin against us.”

Prayer is a time to cleanse the heart.
God’s grace is abundant, and His forgiveness is real. But He also invites us to extend that forgiveness to others.

You can’t hold grudges and expect to experience the fullness of grace. Forgiveness isn’t always easy, but it sets us free.

Today’s challenge: Is there someone you need to forgive? Bring them before God in prayer, and ask for His help to release them.

“Lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil.”

We’re in a battle.
Temptation is real. Evil is real. But God is stronger.
This is a prayer of protection and guidance—asking God to steer us clear of traps and to give us strength when the battle is fierce.

Be honest with God: Tell Him where you’re struggling. Ask Him to help you walk in freedom. Pray for protection over your family, your church, your community.

“For Yours is the kingdom and the power and the glory forever.”

This ending reminds us who we’re talking to.
He’s the King. He has all power. He gets all the glory. Prayer lifts our eyes and re-centers our hearts on what truly matters.

Whatever you’re facing today, let this truth anchor your soul:
God reigns. God can. God will.

Final Thoughts:

The Lord’s Prayer is short, simple, and powerful. You can pray it in two minutes—or linger with each phrase for thirty. What matters is that you pray.

You don’t need to have perfect words. You just need an open heart.
Start where you are. God is waiting, and He loves the sound of your voice.

So, like the disciples once did, let’s say again:
“Lord, teach us to pray.”

Here is a printable PDF Prayer Guide.

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

The 7 Boldest Prayers in the Bible

Posted on April 10, 2025 by Mark Cole

Prayer isn’t meant to be timid. The Bible is full of bold men and women who dared to ask God for the impossible, the unthinkable, and the deeply personal. These prayers weren’t just wishful thinking—they were anchored in trust, persistence, and faith in the character of God.

Here are seven of the boldest prayers in Scripture—examples that still inspire us to pray with courage today:

Screenshot

1. Joshua’s Prayer for the Sun to Stand Still

📖 Joshua 10:12-14

“Sun, stand still over Gibeon, and you, moon, over the Valley of Aijalon.”

Joshua didn’t ask God to help them fight faster—he asked God to stop time! And God answered. Scripture says: “There has never been a day like it before or since.” That’s bold faith in a God who commands creation.

2. Moses’ Prayer for God’s Presence and Glory

📖 Exodus 33:15-18

“If Your Presence does not go with us, do not send us up from here… Now show me Your glory.”

Moses wasn’t satisfied with God’s promises—he wanted His Presence. Then he dared to ask for the ultimate: to see God’s glory. God didn’t rebuke him. He drew near.

3. Elijah’s Prayer for Fire from Heaven

📖 1 Kings 18:36-38

“Answer me, Lord, answer me, so these people will know that You, Lord, are God…”

On Mount Carmel, surrounded by false prophets and a doubting nation, Elijah prays once—and fire falls from heaven. No drama, no theatrics. Just raw confidence in the living God.

4. Hannah’s Prayer for a Son

📖 1 Samuel 1:10-11

“Lord Almighty, if You will only look on Your servant’s misery and remember me… then I will give him to the Lord all the days of his life.”

Hannah’s prayer wasn’t loud, but it was fierce. In her heartbreak, she poured out her soul and made a vow: If You give me a son, I’ll give him back to You. That son was Samuel, one of Israel’s greatest prophets.

5. Hezekiah’s Prayer for Healing and Extended Life

📖 2 Kings 20:2-5

“Remember, Lord, how I have walked before you faithfully…”

Told he was going to die, Hezekiah turned his face to the wall and wept bitterly in prayer. Before Isaiah had even left the palace, God told him to go back: “I have heard your prayer… I will heal you… I will add fifteen years to your life.” That’s divine reversal.

6. Solomon’s Prayer for Wisdom

📖 1 Kings 3:7-12

“Give Your servant a discerning heart to govern Your people…”

Given the chance to ask for anything—riches, power, long life—Solomon asked for wisdom to serve God’s people well. God was so pleased, He gave him everything else too.

7. Jesus’ Prayer in Gethsemane

📖 Luke 22:42

“Father, if You are willing, take this cup from Me; yet not My will, but Yours be done.”

In the darkest moment of His earthly life, Jesus prays the boldest prayer of all: full surrender. Not my will, but Yours. This prayer didn’t change a circumstance—it changed eternity.

Final Thoughts

These bold prayers weren’t arrogant. They were honest. They were faith-filled. They were prayed by people who knew the heart of God and believed He could do more than they imagined.

Maybe it’s time we started praying a little bolder, too.

Let’s dare to ask.
Let’s lean into His promises.
Let’s pray like we believe He still listens.

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

Living with Faith and Purpose In Your Later Years

Posted on April 10, 2025 by Mark Cole

“Give Me the Hill Country!”

“Today I am eighty-five years old. I am as strong now as I was when Moses sent me on that journey, and I can still travel and fight as well as I could then. So give me the hill country that the Lord promised me.”
— Joshua 14:10–12 (NLT)

There’s something stirring about a man in his eighties asking for the hill country — not to retire in comfort, but to conquer territory God had promised him.

Caleb’s words aren’t just ancient history. They’re a rallying cry for every believer over 60:
Don’t slow down. Don’t shrink back. Don’t settle. Ask for the hill country.

In a culture that often nudges older adults to step aside, Scripture tells a different story — one of courage, vision, and spiritual fire that doesn’t burn out with age.

1. Stay Spiritually Strong

Caleb’s secret wasn’t his diet or his exercise routine — it was his heart.
Scripture says he had a “different spirit” and “followed the Lord wholeheartedly” (Numbers 14:24).

His strength was spiritual long before it was physical.

Keep your spiritual engine running:

  • Stay in the Word daily
  • Worship passionately
  • Keep praying big prayers
  • Expect God to move in and through your life

“The righteous will flourish like a palm tree… They will still bear fruit in old age, they will stay fresh and green.”
— Psalm 92:12–14 (NIV)

2. Keep Dreaming

At 85, Caleb wasn’t reminiscing — he was anticipating. He knew there were still promises to claim, land to take, and giants to face.

Some people stop dreaming when they hit retirement age. Not Caleb. Not us.

Ask yourself:

  • What has God promised you that hasn’t happened yet?
  • What territory is still unclaimed in your life?
  • What vision stirs your heart when you pray?

Write it down. Believe for it. Pray it forward.

3. Live with Courage

The hill country wasn’t an easy place. It was filled with fierce enemies — the descendants of Anak. But Caleb didn’t ask for the easy road. He asked for the right one.

Why? Because he trusted in the faithfulness of God.

Courage doesn’t mean we feel fearless — it means we move forward anyway.

Maybe the Lord is calling you to:

  • Lead a Bible study
  • Mentor young leaders
  • Go on a missions trip
  • Share your story
  • Start something new

You’re not done yet. If you’re breathing, you’re called.

4. Leave a Legacy

Caleb’s battle wasn’t just about him — it was for the next generation. He left an inheritance that blessed his family and inspired the entire nation.

You have more to give than you realize.
Your words carry weight. Your story can spark faith. Your wisdom can shape lives.

“One generation shall commend your works to another…”
— Psalm 145:4

Find someone younger to pour into — a grandchild, a young couple, a worship team member, a new believer. Pass on your faith. They need it.

5. Reject Passivity

Aging isn’t an excuse to check out. It’s an opportunity to finish strong. God doesn’t retire His people — He refines and reassigns them.

This season of your life might just be your most fruitful yet.

Ask the Lord:

  • Where do You want to use me now?
  • What’s my next assignment?
  • Who are You calling me to bless, teach, or encourage?

There’s more. Always more.

Final Word: Finish Strong

To all my fellow 60+ friends:
Now’s not the time to coast. It’s the time to climb.

Let Caleb’s cry be yours:

“Give me the hill country!”

Let’s take new ground, love more boldly, give more generously, mentor more intentionally, and believe more fiercely. There’s still fruit to bear, lives to impact, prayers to pray, and victories to win.

You’re not done — not even close.

🟡 Ready to Respond?

👉 What’s the “hill country” God is calling you to take in this season?
👉 Who are you mentoring or encouraging?
👉 Leave a comment below — I’d love to hear your story.

And remember… the best isn’t behind you — it’s ahead, because Jesus walks with you every step of the way.

Let’s finish well — with joy, faith, and purpose.
We’re just getting started.

—
Mark Cole is a worship leader, teacher, and mentor who helps churches and leaders grow in musical excellence and spiritual vitality. Learn more or subscribe at markcole.ca.

Posted in Bible, Family, God, God Adventures, Leadership, Wisdom, Worship | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | 1 Comment

How to Increase Your Faith (Even When You Struggle with Doubt)

Posted on April 10, 2025 by Mark Cole

Faith is a curious thing.

It can feel strong one moment and fragile the next.

I’ve walked with God for decades. I’ve trusted Him for big things—my family, health, finances, ministry—and He has proven faithful again and again. But I still have thoughts of doubt sometimes. Maybe you do too.

Not huge, soul-shaking doubt—but little whispers:
“Is that really true?”
“Am I really hearing God right now?”
“Do they really believe that?”

If you’ve ever wrestled with those kinds of thoughts, you’re not alone. The good news?
👉 Faith can grow. Here’s how:

1. Feed Your Faith with God’s Word

“So then faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the word of God.” – Romans 10:17

Spend time daily in the Scriptures. Let God’s promises speak louder than your fears. Read about Abraham, Moses, Esther, David, Peter—people who faced impossible odds and learned to trust.

Tip: Try a daily Bible reading plan. I read from the Old and New Testaments, Psalms, and Proverbs every morning. It feeds my faith and anchors my heart.

2. Speak Faith, Not Fear

Faith grows when we say what we believe. Fear grows when we say what we fear. Be intentional with your words.

🗣️ Speak Scripture aloud.
🗣️ Declare God’s promises over your life and family.
🗣️ Push back doubt by speaking truth.

When Jesus was tempted, He said: “It is written…” (Matthew 4). Let’s do the same.

3. Remember What God Has Already Done

One of the best ways to strengthen your faith is to look back. God has been faithful before—He will be again.

Start a faith journal:

  • Write down answered prayers.
  • Document moments when God spoke to you or provided.
  • Share testimonies with your family and friends.

Like David facing Goliath, remind yourself: “God helped me with the lion and the bear. He’ll help me now.”

I started my personal timeline to remind myself of the goodness of God in my life.

4. Walk by Faith, Not by Sight

“For we live by faith, not by sight.” – 2 Corinthians 5:7

Faith is an action word. It grows strongest when we step out. Has God called you to do something? Don’t wait for every detail to be clear. Take the next obedient step.

  • Peter didn’t walk on water until he stepped out of the boat.
  • Abraham didn’t see the promise fulfilled until he left everything familiar.

💡 Is there a faith step you’ve been hesitating to take?

5. Surround Yourself with People of Faith

We become like those we spend time with. Stay close to people who believe big and speak life. Avoid negativity, cynicism, or constant doubt.

📚 Read books, listen to podcasts, and spend time with believers who inspire you.
🙌 Worship in community.
👥 Share your journey with others growing in faith.

Iron sharpens iron (Proverbs 27:17).

6. Be Honest with God About Your Doubts

“I do believe; help me overcome my unbelief!” – Mark 9:24

This prayer, spoken by a desperate father, wasn’t rebuked by Jesus—it was honored. If you have doubts, bring them to God. He’s not afraid of your honesty.

Faith isn’t the absence of questions.
It’s trusting God in spite of the questions.

Final Thoughts

You don’t have to manufacture more faith. You just need to nurture what you have. Plant it in God’s Word. Water it with worship. Strengthen it with obedience. And trust the God who grows it.

When doubts come—and they will—remember:
🌱 Faith isn’t about being perfect.
🌱 It’s about coming back, again and again, to the One who is perfectly faithful.

🙏 Small Group Discussion Guide

Topic: How to Increase Your Faith
Recommended Scripture: Mark 9:14–29, Romans 10:17, Hebrews 11:1, 2 Corinthians 5:7
Time: 60–75 minutes

OPENING QUESTION

  • What’s one area of your life where you feel strong in faith right now?
  • What’s one area where doubt creeps in?

READ TOGETHER: MARK 9:14–29

  • Why do you think the father in this story said, “I believe; help my unbelief”?
  • What do you notice about Jesus’ response to his honesty?

DISCUSSION QUESTIONS

  1. How can spending time in God’s Word strengthen your faith? Share a specific verse that builds you up.
  2. How do your words affect your level of faith? Have you ever seen the impact of negative or positive self-talk?
  3. What “stones of remembrance” (past experiences of God’s faithfulness) encourage you today?
  4. Has God ever asked you to take a step of faith before seeing the outcome? What happened?
  5. Who do you surround yourself with? Are they people of faith or people of fear?
  6. When you experience doubt, what helps you process it and turn back to trust?

ACTION STEPS

This week, challenge your group members to do the following:

✅ Start a “faith journal.” Write down 3 times God has been faithful in your life.
✅ Memorize one Scripture about faith.
✅ Speak a faith declaration each morning this week.

PRAYER FOCUS

  • Pray for increased faith in each member’s life.
  • Ask God to reveal any area where someone needs to take a step of obedience.
  • Invite the Holy Spirit to build a faith-filled culture in your group and church.

Here is a downloadable .pdf of this blog and study guide.

Posted in Bible, Church, God, Healing, Health, Leadership | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

“I Saw Satan Fall Like Lightning” — What Jesus Meant and Why It Matters

Posted on April 9, 2025 by Mark Cole

When the 72 disciples returned from their mission trip, they were buzzing with excitement.

“Lord,” they said, “even the demons obey us when we use Your name!” (Luke 10:17, NLT)

Jesus didn’t deny their success. Instead, He gave them a stunning response:

“Yes,” He told them, “I saw Satan fall from heaven like lightning!” (Luke 10:18)

What does that mean?

Was Jesus referring to some cosmic moment in the distant past? Was He making a spiritual observation about what just happened? Or was He pointing to a future victory still to come?

In short: Yes to all of the above.

1. Past Defeat – Satan’s Fall from Heaven

Many scholars link Jesus’ words to Satan’s original rebellion and fall from heaven, described symbolically in Isaiah 14:12 and Ezekiel 28:17. These passages refer to a proud being — likely Satan — cast down from a high place.

Jesus, as the eternal Son of God, was there when it happened. He saw the rebellion and the defeat. When He says, “I saw Satan fall…” He’s not just being poetic — He’s revealing His divine authority and eternal perspective.

2. Present Defeat – The Kingdom of God is Advancing

But Jesus isn’t just recalling ancient history. He’s making a real-time declaration about what was happening through the disciples’ ministry.

As they cast out demons, healed the sick, and proclaimed the kingdom, Satan’s grip on people’s lives was being shattered. Jesus saw, in the spirit realm, the enemy’s strongholds crumbling.

The disciples saw demons obey.
Jesus saw Satan’s kingdom losing ground.

There’s something powerful about ordinary believers stepping out in obedience, ministering in Jesus’ name. Every act of faith and love — especially when we walk in Jesus’ authority — pushes back the darkness.

3. Future Defeat – Satan’s Final Judgment Is Coming

Jesus’ statement also carries prophetic weight. In Revelation 12:9, Satan is described as being hurled down, and in Revelation 20:10, his final judgment is sealed.

Jesus knows the end of the story. Satan’s days are numbered. His fall is not just past and present — it is also certain and future.

4. What It Means for Us Today

Jesus didn’t share this vision just to impress the disciples. He had a point:

“Don’t rejoice because evil spirits obey you; rejoice because your names are registered in heaven.” (Luke 10:20)

Here’s what that means for worship leaders, ministry workers, and everyday believers:

  • Spiritual authority is real. We minister in the name of Jesus, not our own strength.
  • The kingdom is advancing. Every prayer, every song of worship, every act of love counts.
  • Victory is certain. Satan may still prowl, but he’s a defeated foe.
  • Our identity matters more than our power. We’re not defined by results but by our relationship with Christ.

Final Thoughts

When Jesus said, “I saw Satan fall like lightning,” He gave us a glimpse into a spiritual reality — one that stretches from eternity past to eternity future. But He also grounded it in the present moment: the kingdom of God is here, and it’s breaking through every time we step out in His name.

Let that encourage you this week. Whether you’re leading worship, teaching a class, sharing your faith, or raising kids to love Jesus — you are part of something eternally significant.

The enemy is falling.
The kingdom is rising.
And Jesus is Lord over all.

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

Sent in Pairs: Lessons from the 72 Disciples

Posted on April 9, 2025 by Mark Cole

“The harvest is great, but the workers are few.” — Luke 10:2

In Luke 10, we read about a powerful yet often overlooked moment in Jesus’ ministry. After commissioning the 12 apostles, He now chooses 72 other disciples and sends them ahead of Him in pairs, to towns and villages He was planning to visit.

“The Lord now chose seventy-two other disciples and sent them ahead in pairs to all the towns and places He planned to visit. These were His instructions to them: ‘The harvest is great, but the workers are few. So pray to the Lord who is in charge of the harvest; ask Him to send more workers into His fields.’” — Luke 10:1–2 (NLT)

This short passage is full of meaning. It gives us a glimpse of Jesus’ mission strategy, His heart for the lost, and His deep desire for partnership in ministry. Here are some insights for us today:

1. There’s More Work Than Workers

Jesus looks out at the spiritual landscape and sees a massive harvest—souls ready to receive, people hungry for truth. But the workers? They are few. So He tells them not just to go—but to pray.

Before we act, we pray.
Before we plan, we ask the Lord of the harvest to raise up workers—leaders, encouragers, evangelists, musicians, kids workers, youth leaders—because the field is ready, and time is short.

👉 What would happen if we prayed this prayer daily: “Lord, send more workers into Your harvest field”?

2. Jesus Sends Ordinary Disciples

This group of 72 is not made up of the 12 apostles. They are “other disciples”—everyday followers of Jesus who said yes to the call. They weren’t famous. We don’t even know their names. But Jesus knew them. And He trusted them with His message and power.

You don’t have to be a platform preacher or a bestselling author to make an impact.
If you’re a disciple, you’re called, and you’re sent.

3. Ministry Happens Best in Teams

Jesus sent them two by two. Why?

  • For encouragement
  • For accountability
  • For partnership in prayer and power

This is a beautiful picture of how ministry is meant to work. No one is meant to go it alone. Worship leaders need tech teams. Pastors need intercessors. Evangelists need hospitality helpers. We’re better together.

4. Go Where Jesus Plans to Go

They were sent to places He Himself was about to go (Luke 10:1). That means our mission is not random—it’s aligned with where Jesus is already working.

Think of it this way: when you invite someone for coffee, visit a neighbor, teach a song, lead a Bible study—you’re not going in your own strength. You’re preparing hearts for an encounter with Jesus.

👉 Who might Jesus be planning to visit—through you—this week?

5. Ministry Is Both Powerful and Risky

Jesus warned them: “I am sending you out as lambs among wolves.” (v. 3). Ministry isn’t always safe or easy. There will be rejection, spiritual warfare, even danger. But they went anyway.

And when they returned, they were filled with joy, saying:

“Lord, even the demons obey us when we use Your name!” (Luke 10:17)

That’s the key—it’s His name, His authority, and His power.

6. Pray, Go, Trust, and Rejoice

This passage gives us a simple, powerful model for life and ministry:

  • Pray for workers.
  • Go where Jesus sends.
  • Trust God to provide what you need.
  • Rejoice in what God does through you—and in the fact that your name is written in heaven (Luke 10:20).

Final Thought

You may never be famous like Peter or Paul. But if you say yes to Jesus, He will use you like one of the 72. Unseen, unnamed—but faithful and fruitful.

Lord of the harvest, send more workers—and let me be one of them.

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

When the Sun Stood Still — Lessons from Joshua’s Audacious Prayer

Posted on April 9, 2025 by Mark Cole

One of the most astonishing moments in the Bible takes place in Joshua 10. In the middle of a fierce battle against the Amorite kings, Joshua turns to God and prays one of the boldest prayers ever recorded:

“Sun, stand still over Gibeon,
and you, moon, over the Valley of Aijalon.”
(Joshua 10:12, NLT)

And then it says:

“So the sun stood still and the moon stayed in place until the nation of Israel had defeated its enemies.”
(Joshua 10:13)

This wasn’t poetic language or metaphor — it was a supernatural intervention. God literally extended the day so Israel could finish the battle. It’s hard to comprehend — and yet it happened. Even more, it was in response to a man’s prayer.

So, what can we learn from this story today? Quite a lot.

1. Bold Faith Honors God

Joshua didn’t whisper a timid prayer. He spoke boldly, publicly, in front of all Israel. He believed that the God who had brought them this far would finish what He started.

Big prayers honor a big God.

Sometimes we pray “safe” prayers that require no faith. Joshua’s prayer was risky — and that’s exactly why God responded.

What are you asking God for today that feels impossible?
Whether it’s a healing, a calling, a fresh season of ministry, or a breakthrough in your family, don’t be afraid to pray big.

2. The Battle Is the Lord’s, But We Still Fight

God caused confusion in the enemy ranks and even sent a hailstorm — but Joshua and his men still had to march all night and fight the battle.

God often partners with us, not instead of us.

We want miracles, but God often works through our obedience and effort. He doesn’t remove us from the battlefield — He strengthens us in it.

3. God Can Do in a Moment What We Can’t Do in a Lifetime

By holding the sun in place, God gave Israel supernatural time. What would’ve taken days was completed in one extended moment of divine intervention.

God can redeem time, restore lost years, and multiply fruitfulness.

Maybe you feel like you’ve wasted years or missed your moment — but God can accelerate your purpose in ways you never imagined.

4. Prayer Changes the Outcome

Joshua’s prayer wasn’t symbolic. It changed the actual course of history. The sun paused. The battle turned. Victory came.

“There has never been a day like this one before or since, when the Lord answered such a prayer. Surely the Lord fought for Israel that day!”
(Joshua 10:14)

Your prayers matter. Heaven listens. Things shift when we pray. Prayer is not a formality — it’s an instrument of power in the hands of a believer.

What’s Your “Sun Stand Still” Prayer?

What are you facing that’s beyond you? What battle are you in that requires supernatural help?

Ask boldly. Speak in faith. Trust deeply. You may not see the sun stop — but you’ll see the Son shine.

God still answers audacious prayers.

Posted in Bible, God, God Adventures, Healing, Leadership | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment