The Bible talks about bearing good fruit and how that is God's purpose for our lives. For example, in John 15:5 (AMP), Jesus says, "I am the Vine; you are the branches. The one who remains in Me and I in him bears much fruit, for [otherwise] apart from Me [that is, cut off from vital union with Me] you can do nothing." And Psalm 1:3 says that the person who follows God's ways is "like a tree firmly planted [and fed] by streams of water, which yields its fruit in its season; its leaf does not wither; and in whatever he does, he prospers [and comes to maturity]."
In a world of shifting values and loud ideologies, it can be difficult to define what real faith looks like. Too often, religion is distorted into something rigid, divisive, or transactional, focused more on who's "in" or "out" than on who needs to be loved. But Jesus didn't come to establish a hierarchy or build a fence. He came to build a foundation—one that is rooted in love, justice, grace, and truth. When these four pillars hold up our faith, we reflect the heart of God to a broken world.
This is Father's Day, and as I seek Him, this is what The Father says to me. The Father says: To meditate upon His Word. To break it down bite by bite in order to digest it. To bring forth the nutrients within it. To do His Will. We are to be like a deer that is panting after a water brook with such intensity as if we are dying to know Him and the purpose He has called us to fulfill — to know the burden of His heart for others and more for the lost.
This past week, I found myself feeling a bit heavy-hearted. My mind was full of thoughts—some of them good, but some weighing me down. Ever feel that way? I thought to myself, I have to get back to my happy! As Christians, we often diminish the importance of happiness, wondering, Does God really want me to be happy? My answer? Absolutely, yes! Of course, our walk with Jesus involves suffering, but God also calls us to be glad in Him. Did you know that the word glad appears more than 150 times in Scripture?
Worship has to do with ascribing to the Lord worth or value. It aligns with the first commandment: to love the Lord your God with all your heart, soul, and strength (Deut. 6:5). As we explore this topic, we find that worship is the reason why we were created and the ultimate expression of our lives. The angelic beings, who are constantly before the throne of God, embody this truth, holding the greatest position and authority in the heavenly hierarchy due to their continual worship of the Creator (Rev. 4:8-11).
To them God willed to make known what are the riches of the glory of this mystery among the Gentiles: which is Christ in you, the hope of glory. Colossians 1:27 Beloved, the more you grow in your revelation and valuation of how Jesus' finished work has placed you in Him—in the secret place where you are safe, protected, and secure—the more you'll find your heart at rest instead of filled with worry and fears.
In this fallen world, the enemy attacks relationships, and unhealthy relations can create unhealthy soul ties–an unholy dependence and connection to a person that leads to bondage. Yet, we were each created with a deep capacity and need for a holy connection, reflecting God's design and desire for us to be in communion with Him and community with others–healthy and holy soul ties.
Imagine yourself as a surfer standing on the shore. The ocean is vast, powerful, and full of movement. Though you can see the waves coming, you are powerless to control them. All you can do is prepare, watch, and be ready when they arrive. Similarly, the Holy Spirit is like a wave on the ocean. Despite not being able to control Him, you can position yourself, watch in faith, and be ready to move when He moves. You can trust that He will guide you and carry you forward. Just as a surfer learns to read the waves, you can learn to discern His leading.
Have you ever wanted to go to a secluded place and scream at the top of your lungs, "God, why are You taking so long?" I have. Everything about my life has seemed too slow. My last name even means "gradual." Some people might look at my life and say, "You are blessed and successful." But I waited a long time to see that fruit. Nothing came quickly. My first job lasted eight difficult years, and the pay was horrible. Then, at age 31, the ministry I worked for imploded. After that, I went through lengthy seasons of dryness. I often wanted to quit.
You may be walking through a "dry place" in your life, perhaps having a difficult time… a time when it seems that all your opportunities have dried up. It appears that your financial needs are not being met, and your future looks bleak. You may even feel like your prayers are not being heard. Circumstances rise up against you and you don't see a way out. Such were the circumstances in Samaria in 2 Kings 6:24-30: The entire city was in severe famine being surrounded by the armies of the king of Syria who was determined to destroy them. The enemy wanted to take their city and possessions. They could not leave the city to trade or get food from the fields or goods.
Follow Up
