The Prophet’s Candle

The people walking in darkness have seen a great light; on those living in the land of deep darkness a light has dawned.

All church going Christians must be familiar with the four pillars of Advent which started yesterday. These pillars of hope, peace, joy and love, reflect some of the virtues of our Christ, because they summarize the core spiritual gifts and promise brought into the world by the birth of Jesus Christ.

Also known as the “prophecy candle,” the candle of hope for Advent assures us we can have hope that God will fulfill the prophecies declared in the Old Testament about Jesus. Hope doesn’t disappoint us (Romans 5:5).

So today, we will talk about "hope". What is hope and how does it relate to Christ.

Hope is inherent to humans. When we sleep, we hope we will wake up the next morning. Every baby born is hope for a family. Everything we do is with a hope that there will be an expected end.

Jesus gives life to that hope. Hopelessness is not part of Gods plan. Even as you read this, you are living a hope - whether you acknowledge it or not.

Hope is not in the distant future. Hope is here and now. For example - When a person is sick and suffering he or she can hope for a Cure or Full Recovery (The big goal) and a Good Quality of Life Today (The small, achievable goal).

If you are looking at change or a shift in your life - in the longer perspective you want Control Over the Future. In the shorter term

Acceptance and New Meaning (The "new normal") of the present.

​Hope is not denying the dark night but choosing to light the small candle and affirm the Light that is promised to return. Therefore, 

• ​Hope is not denial; it is trust. We trust that even when our bodies fail, His love does not.

• ​Hope is not ease; it is endurance. That He Grant us the strength to face the next treatment, the next difficult day, and the next moment with courage, knowing He is our refuge.

• ​Hope is not control; it is surrender. Help us surrender our fear and anxiety into His hands, believing that His plan holds profound meaning, even if we cannot see it now.

Second, who needs hope? Why does the Bible give it so much importance?

The biblical call to hope is not about wishful thinking; it's about confident expectation based on God’s proven track record. The prophecies of the Old Testament, like the one from Isaiah, were written during times of national defeat, exile, and despair—true hopelessness.

​God’s message through the prophets was this: Your current suffering is not the final word. It still is not.  

​This Advent, the candle of Hope reminds us that:

• ​God sees our darkness. He doesn't minimize our pain, grief, or struggle, but gives us the strength to bear it till we receive our blessing. Our problem and pain get dwarfed by His power. Isaiah says the people were walking in "deep darkness"—a profound, overwhelming shadow.

• ​The Light is not accidental. The Light (Christ) was promised centuries before He arrived. This means your current despair, if you are feeling it, is temporary because God has a pre-planned, guaranteed solution that is already set in motion.

• ​Hope is anchored in history. We light this first candle because the promise was kept in a manger in Bethlehem. If God kept the promise to Israel after centuries of waiting, He will certainly keep His promises to you today. Think about your own blessings in the past. Unexplained good incidents; unsought blessings. God has your back. 

​Our hope is not dependent on our circumstances changing, but on God’s unchanging nature and His promise to make all things new.

As you look at the first candle, acknowledge the areas of your life that feel heavy, dark, or hopeless. Name the burdens, talk to God about them. Name them. 

This week, practice choosing to hope over despair, through action:

• ​Daily Focus: Every morning, identify one prophecy fulfilled by Jesus (like those found in Isaiah 7, 9, or Micah 5). Write it down and use it as a reminder: "He did this, so He will do that." At the same time recall one good thing that happened to you. 

• ​Light in the Darkness: When you feel overwhelmed by hopelessness, physically light a candle (the Advent candle, if available) and pray the prayer of Isaiah 9:2 over your situation. Let the flame represent the promised, faithful presence of Christ.

The Divine Exchange

Life in a fallen world inevitably brings moments of fear, uncertainty, and distress. We often find ourselves weighed down by the "what-ifs," the looming deadlines, the health concerns, or the relational tensions that steal our joy and peace. 

This constant undercurrent of worry is what the Bible calls anxiety. It's a heavy, oppressive burden that can make us feel isolated and exhausted. Anxiety creeps in when we try to control what we were never meant to carry.

​The Apostle Peter, who certainly knew a thing or two about intense pressure and failure, acknowledges this burden and offers a profound solution:

​"Casting all your anxieties on him, because he cares for you."

— 1 Peter 5:7 (ESV)

​This verse gives us a clear instruction and a deep promise. The instruction is to cast—an active, definitive movement, like throwing a heavy net off your shoulder. The promise is the reason why we can do this: He cares for you.

​In fact, Paul too said - 

"Be careful for nothing; but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God". Philippians 4:6 (KJV)

Paul reminds us that instead of being anxious, we’re called to pray. Not once in a while—but in everything.

Why? Because Prayer is the exchange. You give God your worry and He gives you His peace. You give Him your burden and He gives you strength. 

The enemy loves an anxious heart, but peace guards the heart that trusts in Christ. Today, release what’s weighing you down. Turn your stress into supplication. Don’t carry what grace has already covered.

Prayer is not simply reciting a wish list; it is the mechanism by which we make the divine exchange. We hand over the heavy, crushing weight of our anxiety, and in return, God gives us His supernatural, unwavering peace.

​​Notice the distinct steps:

​Acknowledge: Don't suppress the anxiety. Bring "everything"—the big things and the small things—into God's presence.

​Pray with Thanksgiving: Even amidst the worry, we can be thankful for who God is, His past faithfulness, and His ultimate control. This perspective shifts the focus from the problem to the Provider.

​The Result: A Guarded Heart: The response is not just the absence of worry, but the presence of "the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding." This peace acts as a divine sentinel, a guard posted over your heart (your feelings) and your mind (your thoughts) in Christ Jesus.

​A Peace that Surpasses Understanding

​This peace is not dependent on your circumstances changing. You don't get peace after the problem is solved; you get peace while you are walking through the problem. This is why it "surpasses all understanding"—it doesn't make logical sense to the anxious, worried world.

​The moment you deliberately articulate your fear to God and choose to trust Him with the outcome; you are engaging in this divine exchange. You are swapping a heavy, self-focused burden for a light, God-centered peace.

In a moment of prayer, picture yourself deliberately handing that specific burden over to God. Ask Him to replace that fear with the incomprehensible peace of Jesus.

Maybe you can pray like this - 

​"Heavenly Father, I confess that I often carry burdens that are too heavy for me. I am anxious, and I need your peace. Today, I actively cast [Name your specific anxiety] onto you, believing that you care for me. Thank you that I don’t have to understand the outcome to have your peace. Let your peace, which guards my heart and mind in Christ Jesus, flood my soul. Amen."

​Is there a specific area of your life you'd like to pray about right now? Don't wait. Exchange it! 

The Gentle Shepherd

"The Lord is my Shepherd, I shall not want..."

Look at this picture. 

Do you find anything wrong with it? Probably not. This is how we picture Jesus as our shepherd, right?

Well wrong. This picture is one sided.

The fact is -

In the ancient Near Eastern reality, a shepherd was very different.

​The Hebrew for shepherd is the word Ro'eh, which literally means a "feeder" or "tender."

​However, the detailed meaning is much more nuanced. The role of a shepherd absolutely necessitated the heart and skills of a warrior.

​In the ancient Hebrew context, you could not be a "good shepherd" without also being a fierce fighter. A warrior protector AND a provider and guide.

​Here is the breakdown of why the connotation of "warrior-protector" is embedded in the concept of Ro'eh:

​1. The Hostile Environment

​Our modern image of shepherding often involves rolling green, fenced pastures where sheep are relatively safe.

​In the ancient Levant (Israel), shepherding was done in the wilderness. The terrain was rugged, arid, and dangerous. A shepherd was leading defenseless animals through territories occupied by:

• ​Apex Predators: Lions, Asiatic bears, wolves, and leopards were common threats in biblical times.

• ​Human Threats: Bandits, raiders, and thieves who would try to steal the flock for food or wealth.

​A shepherd who was pacifist or cowardly would lose their flock very quickly.

​2. The Tools of the Trade: The Rod

​The famous phrasing in Psalm 23 mentions the shepherd’s two primary tools: "Thy rod and thy staff they comfort me."

• ​The Staff (Mish'enet): This was the long, crooked stick used for guidance, leaning on while walking, and gently hooking a sheep to pull it away from a cliff edge. This is the peaceful tool.

• ​The Rod (Shevet): This was distinctly a weapon. It was a short, heavy wooden club, sometimes tipped with metal or flint, worn at the belt. It was used to beat back brush, but primarily, it was used to bash in the skulls of attacking predators or thieves.

​When David says God’s rod "comforts" him, he means it is comforting to know that his Shepherd can protect him from any kind of an enemy. 

​3. The Biblical Prototype: David

​The best evidence for the "warrior" connotation is found in David, the archetypal shepherd-king.

​Before David fought Goliath, King Saul dismissed him as just a boy. David’s defense of his ability to fight a giant warrior was based entirely on his experience as a shepherd:

​"But David said to Saul, 'Your servant has been keeping his father’s sheep. When a lion or a bear came and carried off a sheep from the flock, I went after it, struck it and rescued the sheep from its mouth. When it turned on me, I seized it by its hair, struck it and killed it. Your servant has killed both the lion and the bear; this uncircumcised Philistine will be like one of them...'" (1 Samuel 17:34-36, NIV)

​In Hebrew thought, David did not become a warrior after he left the sheepfolds. He became a warrior because he was in the sheepfolds. The wilderness was his boot camp.

​Summary: The Defensive Warrior

​The Hebrew connotation of Ro'eh is not an offensive warrior—a soldier who goes out to conquer new territory.

​Rather, it connotes a fierce, defensive warrior.

​The Ro'eh is motivated by deep care and possessiveness over the flock. The shepherd prefers peace and grazing, but if anything threatens what they love, they instantly shift into a violent, protective mode.

​So, while Ro'eh means "tender companion," the ancient context demands that this companion also be ready to fight to the death to protect their charge. And which He did. 

Now, when we change that mental picture of our Shepherd in our minds, does not the reality of the Psalms and other verses of the Bible truly come alive? Do not His promises of protection and provision become a reality? Does not the Bible and His word become our truth?

Radio Silence

In our day today life, many times we face radio silence from people - in emails or questions or any issue we may want resolved. And when we do its usually because -

A. We are not important enough

B. The other person has no answer

C. It may not be their priority.

But what happens when the Signal is Lost with God? How do we go about finding God in the Silence

​"My God, my God, why have you forsaken me? Why are you so far from saving me, so far from my cries of anguish?" - Psalm 22:1

​Have you ever felt like you’re shouting into a void? Like you’re tuning your spiritual radio, searching desperately for the familiar frequency of God’s presence, but all you get is static—or worse, total radio silence? That is one of the most difficult seasons of faith. We pray, we read, we wait, but the heavens seem brass, and the sense of divine nearness is gone.

​If you are currently experiencing this profound quiet, you are in good company. The Bible is full of saints who felt abandoned, from Job to the psalmists, and most profoundly, Jesus Christ himself on the cross. It’s important to understand that the feeling of distance does not necessarily mean God is absent.

​What can be the Purpose of the Pause? ​Why does God sometimes go quiet? While we can never know His full, mysterious will, the silence often serves a few key purposes in our spiritual growth:

​1. To Deepen Our Trust (Moving from Sensation to Faith): When God’s presence is emotionally overwhelming and visible, faith is easy. But true, resilient faith is built in the wilderness. The silence forces us to rely not on our feelings, but on the immutable facts of God's character: He is good, He is faithful, and He keeps His promises. We learn to trust the Promise-Giver even when we can’t perceive the Presence.

​2. To Cultivate Maturity (Learning to Search): When a child calls out, a parent often answers immediately. When a young adult is learning independence, the parent might wait, allowing them to solve the problem themselves. Silence encourages us to stop passively receiving and start actively seeking. It forces us into a deeper, more intentional study of Scripture and a more honest examination of our own hearts.

​3. To Prepare Us for the Next Assignment: Sometimes, the silence is simply a necessary time of rest and recalibration before a major spiritual breakthrough or a difficult mission. Think of the intense quiet before a massive storm, or the stillness required before a difficult operation. This pause allows us to be emptied of our noise and filled with His readiness.

​

​When the silence is overwhelming, here are three anchors to hold onto:

• ​Re-read the History: Go back to the moments in your life where you know God showed up. Write them down. These are your Ebenezers—stones of remembrance that testify to His enduring faithfulness. Your past proves His future reliability.

• ​Focus on the Cross: The silence you feel now is nothing compared to the cosmic abandonment Jesus experienced when He cried out, "My God, why have you forsaken me?" He did that so that when we walk through the shadow of silence, we never walk through it truly alone. He has been there.

• ​Worship Anyway: Worship is not a mood enhancer; it’s an act of will. It’s declaring God’s goodness before the answer arrives, before the signal comes back. Worship in the waiting shifts your focus from your lack of feeling to God’s enduring majesty.

​The absence of a signal doesn't mean the station has shut down. God speaks best in the quiet, and He never abandons His post.

​

Surviving The Fire

​2 Corinthians 1:3-4 (God of all comfort) 

​“Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies and God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our affliction, so that we may be able to comfort those who are in any affliction, with the comfort with which we ourselves are comforted by God.”

2 Corinthians 1:3–4 reveals a core pattern of comfort and purpose in the Christian life: that God not only consoles us in our suffering, but equips us to become vessels of comfort for others. Paul writes that the Father of mercies and the God of all comfort “comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves receive from God.” This divine cycle transforms personal pain into communal healing, reminding believers that their trials are never wasted—they are redeemed into ministry, empathy, and hope.

​The Apostle Paul, who wrote these words, was no stranger to hardship. He faced shipwrecks, imprisonment, hunger, and persecution. Yet, he doesn't begin his letter with a complaint; he begins with a profound blessing to God, whom he calls the "God of all comfort."

​This passage reveals a powerful, two-step process in how God addresses our suffering:

​Step 1: God’s Presence in Your Pain (Verse 4a)

God is not distant when we are hurting. He doesn't wait for the affliction to end before stepping in. He is the one “who comforts us in all our affliction.” This comfort is not necessarily the immediate removal of the pain, but the awareness of His presence, the peace that transcends understanding, and the strength to endure. When we are afflicted, we are drawn into a unique intimacy with Him, relying on Him entirely because our own strength has failed. He knows exactly what we are going through, and He meets us there, pouring His mercy into our deepest wounds.

​Step 2: The Purpose of Your Comfort (Verse 4b)

This is the most remarkable part of the passage: God’s comfort is never meant to stop with us. It’s given “so that we may be able to comfort those who are in any affliction.” Your struggle is not wasted. The deep compassion and understanding you gain from enduring your own trial becomes the precise tool you use to help someone else later. The comfort you received from God acts as a sacred relay baton. When you sit with a friend going through a hardship, you don't offer them textbook advice; you offer them the authentic, grace-filled comfort that was first given to you.

​The pain you feel is real, but it is also a preparation. It is forging within you a profound empathy, transforming you from a person who simply endured suffering into a compassionate source of solace for others. 

When you have survived the fire, you become a light for those still walking through the flames.

Unseen Battles

“For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms.”

— Ephesians 6:12 (NIV)

We often hear people wonder - why do good people suffer bad things? 

​We often view our struggles—the anxiety, the sharp temptation, the persistent doubt, the relational friction—as purely internal or interpersonal problems. We fight against a bad mood, a difficult colleague, or a personal failure. But the Apostle Paul pulls back the curtain on reality, revealing that these surface battles are often just symptoms of a deeper, unseen warfare.

​You are a soldier in a spiritual war, whether you feel like one or not. The true enemy is not the person who angered you, nor is it the circumstance that caused you distress. The real enemy is the spiritual forces that seek to distract you, discourage you, and ultimately dismantle your faith. The target is your faith and the way is through your fear and temptation. 

​This truth is both sobering and empowering. Why? 

• ​Sobering: It reminds us that there is a strategic, intelligent foe actively working against our peace and purpose.

• ​Empowering: It shifts our focus from fighting symptoms to fighting the source. When you realize the battle is spiritual, you stop using fleshly weapons (anger, gossip, self-pity) and start using the only effective tools: spiritual weapons.

​Three Strategies for Spiritual Victory

​1. Know Your Enemy’s Strategy (The Lie)

​The primary weapon of the enemy is deception. He tries to make you believe lies about God, lies about yourself, and lies about your situation.

• ​Lies about God: "God isn't good. He has forgotten you. Your sin is too great for His grace."

• ​Lies about you: "You are worthless. You will never change. You are too weak to fight."

​Your Defense: The Truth of God's Word. When you are tempted to believe a lie, speak a corresponding truth. If you feel forgotten, recall: "The Lord himself goes before you and will be with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you" (Deuteronomy 31:8).

​2. Put on the Full Armor (Ephesians 6:13-17)

​Paul is insistent: we must be fully equipped. The armor is not optional; it is the provision Christ has given you for protection.

3. Fight from a Position of Victory (Intercession)

​Crucially, you are not fighting for victory; you are fighting from the victory already secured by Jesus Christ on the cross. Your power does not come from your strength, but from His.

​Paul concludes the armor passage with a call to prayer for all the saints (Ephesians 6:18). Intercession is how we deploy the spiritual weapons. When you pray, you are inviting the power of God into the unseen battle, and no spiritual force can stand against Him.

​

Think about this: 

• ​What "flesh and blood" struggle in your life right now might actually be a symptom of a deeper spiritual battle?

• ​Which piece of the spiritual armor do you feel you need to intentionally "put on" today?

​Prayer

​Heavenly Father, thank You for opening my eyes to the reality of the spiritual war. Forgive me for trying to fight my battles in my own strength. I put on the full armor of God today. I take up the Shield of Faith to guard against the lies of the enemy, and I wield the Sword of the Spirit, which is Your Word. Strengthen me to stand firm in the victory Christ has already won, and help me to pray ceaselessly for others who are in the fight. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Standing on The Promises of God: Pastor Rajiv

 

Good Morning God!

Read Isiaah 44 6-8

I have a question today: if God was living with you or me, would we not say "Good morning" every day?

Francis Taylor points out certain truths viz our relationship with God. Commenting on the quoted passage she says -

"God is very definite in this passage from Isaiah. I am God and there is no other! I am the first and the last, the Alpha and the Omega, as is written in the book of Revelation. Since we declare that we believe this, why do we insist on having other gods? Anything or anyone we put before God, including ourselves, we are making gods. Putting God first, means giving up some of our control and obeying his rules, and living as God wants us to live. This isn't the first time this message has come before us this year, but it bears repeating and reflecting upon once again. Where do we place God on a scale of 1 – 10 in the course of our day? Is God in your thoughts when you wake up? How many times do you think about God during the day while driving, working, reading, watching television? What about at night? Is God the last thing you think about at night as you reflect upon your day? How many times during the day do you say "thank you" for getting those green lights, finding a parking place, having the meeting go well? Or maybe you need to thank God that the person running the red light didn't hit you? Tomorrow, try saying good morning to God and ask him to be with you during the day. Then, look for God in the people and events during the day. Tomorrow night, think about your day, recognize the places where God was present and then say "good night." Repeat."

Francis Taylor

What she is saying is that God should be integrated into all aspects of life, not relegated to a Sunday-only activity.

He thus becomes a lifestyle rather than an event. The encouragement to say "thank you" for daily mercies (green lights, parking spots, safety) is a call to practice mindfulness and gratitude, recognizing God's hand in both the mundane and the profound.

We need to move from theological statement to practical devotional exercise, which is its greatest strength.

Ms Taylor establishes a non-negotiable truth using direct biblical reference: "I am God and there is no other! I am the first and the last, the Alpha and the Omega." This declaration, pulling from both Isaiah and Revelation, emphasizes God's eternality and completeness. If this is true, it logically follows that nothing else can share that level of importance, not even ourselves, our jobs, our families or our possessions. Our pride lies in God, not in these things.

Making God and Jesus our lifestyle means transforming our faith from a belief system into a 24/7 reality. How can we do that?

• To start with, change morning routines. Before you check your phone or start your to-do list, offer a simple prayer: "Good morning, God. Be with me today and guide my steps."

• Focus on the Person of Jesus: The lifestyle isn't just about what you do; it's about becoming more like Christ. Study Jesus's life in the Gospels (Matthew, Mark, Luke, John) and focus on His humility, compassion, and priorities.

Integrate God into Daily Rhythms

​This moves God from being a "Sunday event" to a continuous presence.

• ​Communion through Prayer (The Constant Conversation):

• ​Scheduled Time: Set aside dedicated, quiet time (even 5-10 minutes) each day for prayer and devotion. Be consistent.

• ​Spontaneous Prayer: This is key to lifestyle—talking to God while driving, cooking, waiting in line, or before a difficult meeting. The quote's reference to saying "thank you" for a parking spot is a perfect example.

• ​Meditation on Scripture (The Daily Bread):

• ​Read for Transformation, not just Information: Instead of speed-reading, take one verse or a short passage. Read it slowly, meditate on what it means, and ask, "How should this change how I live today?"

• ​Practical Tip: Use a Bible app to keep a verse or thought on your phone's home screen for a few hours.

Make Your Work and Activities Worship

​Your job, your hobbies, and your errands are all opportunities to express your faith.

• ​Excellence and Integrity: Do your work, chores, or studies with excellence, as if you are working directly for God, not just your boss or teacher (Colossians 3:23). This means being honest, diligent, and helpful.

• ​Attitude and Humility: In traffic, in frustrating situations, or during conflicts, actively try to display the Fruit of the Spirit (love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control - Galatians 5:22-23). This is where the rubber meets the road.

• ​The "Other Gods" Check: As the quote asks, constantly evaluate our priorities. If our pursuit of comfort, money, approval, or pleasure causes us to neglect our spiritual life or compromise our values, that's where we need to surrender control.

Making God and Jesus your lifestyle is about cultivating an active awareness of His presence and consciously choosing His way over your own, moment by moment. It's a journey of forming small, consistent habits that slowly shift your heart's greatest desire.

Is God on Your Side?

The pages of the Old Testament are filled with the dramatic prayers and actions of the people of Israel as they faced enemies, famine, and disaster. Their cry was often: "O God, be on our side!" They longed for the Divine Warrior to march with their armies, to deliver them from their foes, and to bless their land. Much like you and I today. 

And, when they walked in obedience, God was indeed their protector and deliverer. When they strayed, the prophets brought God's stern but loving verdict, reminding the people of God's perspective and calling them back to covenant faithfulness.

​One powerful example of this dynamic is seen when the Israelites were about to take Jericho:

​“When Joshua was by Jericho, he lifted up his eyes and looked, and behold, a man was standing before him with his drawn sword in his hand. And Joshua went to him and said to him, ‘Are you for us, or for our adversaries?’ And he said, ‘No; but I am the commander of the army of the LORD. Now I have come.’ And Joshua fell on his face to the earth and worshiped and said to him, ‘What does my lord say to his servant?’ ”

​— Joshua 5:13–14 (ESV)

​The commander's answer, "No," is striking. He wasn't choosing sides; he was declaring that God's mission was the only side that mattered. Joshua's response was immediate humility and surrender. He stopped asking God to join his side and asked how he could join God’s.

​The New Covenant: The Question Is Settled

​With the coming of Jesus Christ, the question of whether God is "on our side" is definitively answered and fundamentally transformed.

​The Gospel reveals the ultimate, unwavering truth of God's heart toward humanity: He is absolutely, eternally, and completely on our side.

He did not wait for us to clean up our lives; He came while we were still lost. ​“But God shows his love for us in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us.” ​— Romans 5:8 (ESV)

He did not send a general or a prophet; He sent His own Son. ​“For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life.” ​— John 3:16 (ESV)

​The very act of the Incarnation, the Cross, and the Resurrection is God’s decisive declaration of love and commitment to redeem humanity.

​The Apostle Paul drives this point home with powerful rhetoric:

​“What then shall we say to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us? He who did not spare his own Son but gave him up for us all, how will he not also with him graciously give us all things?”

​— Romans 8:31–32 (ESV)

​The New Challenge

​Because God has proven beyond all doubt that He is for us through Christ, the question shifts from a desperate plea to a deliberate choice. The ultimate battle is no longer for God's allegiance; it is for ours.

​The question is no longer: "Is God on our side?"

The question now is: "Are we on God's side?"

​This means:

Surrender: Are we willing to lay down our own plans and will, just as Joshua did, and ask, "What does my Lord say to his servant?"

Obedience: Are we actively seeking to live by Christ's teachings, aligning our values, actions, and priorities with His kingdom purposes? 

​“No one can serve two masters, for either he will hate the one and love the other, or he will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve God and money.” ​— Matthew 6:24 (ESV) (This principle applies to all areas of allegiance, not just wealth).

Faith: Are we trusting in His completed work on the cross, making His perfect righteousness our ground for peace and hope, rather than relying on our own strength or goodness?

​A Final Thought

​Let us move past the anxious plea for God to join our cause and embrace the reality of the New Covenant: God has already committed Himself to us. Our task is to enthusiastically and obediently commit ourselves to His cause.

Besting Jesus? The Faith That Crossed Boundaries

Mark 7:25–29: A Story of Faith That Crossed Boundaries

We often think of Jesus as the perfect teacher—wise, compassionate, and purposeful in every word and action. In Mark 7, we witness a remarkable moment where a Gentile mother, unnamed but unforgettable, approaches Him with a plea born of deep love and desperation.

Her daughter was suffering, and she believed that Jesus could help. Despite being an outsider—a Syrophoenician woman, not part of the Jewish community to whom Jesus’s ministry was first directed—she came and fell at His feet, asking for healing.

Jesus responded with a statement that reflected the cultural and theological boundaries of the time:

"Let the children be fed first, for it is not fair to take the children’s bread and throw it to the dogs."

This phrase, though softened in its original language, would have been difficult to hear. Yet the woman did not retreat. With humility and insight, she replied:

"Lord, even the dogs under the table eat the children’s crumbs."

Her response was not defiant—it was faithful. She acknowledged the order of things yet trusted that even the overflow of God’s grace was enough to meet her need. Jesus affirmed her faith immediately:

"For saying that, you may go; the demon has left your daughter."

The Power of Persistent Faith

This story is not about Jesus being bested in an argument. It’s about a moment where faith pierced through cultural boundaries. Jesus’s response shows us that sincere, humble belief is always welcomed—and that God’s mercy is not limited by status, background, or tradition.

The Syrophoenician woman didn’t demand a place at the table. She simply trusted that the crumbs of grace were enough. And in that trust, she received the fullness of healing.

The Message for Us Today

When we feel distant, unheard, or unworthy, this story reminds us:

1. Faith that is humble, persistent, and trusting can move the heart of God.

2. No one is too far. No prayer is too small. And no boundary is too strong for the compassion of Christ.

When Everything is Lost

Much of the Old Testament is an historical account but most of it has practical application as a Christian even today. When we meditate on these OT accounts, there is so much to be learned which enhances our own relationship with God.

One such account is in 1 Samuel 30 - to be read as a complete chapter. It is a powerful account of leadership, faith, and recovery in a moment of intense crisis. The story of David and his men returning to find their town, Ziklag, burned and their families captured by the Amalekites offers several profound learning opportunities.

​Here are the key lessons we can derive from 1 Samuel 30:

​"But David was greatly distressed, for the people spoke of stoning him, because all the people were bitter in soul, each for his sons and his daughters. But David strengthened himself in the Lord his God."

​Imagine the scene: David and his men return home after a long journey only to find their city, Ziklag, reduced to ashes. Their wives, children, and possessions—everything they owned—had been carried off by the raiding Amalekites. Their grief was so overwhelming they wept until they could weep no more. To make matters worse, David’s own companions turned on him, placing the blame squarely on his shoulders and speaking of stoning their leader.

​It was a moment of absolute loss: physical possessions gone, family missing, leadership authority questioned, and his own life threatened. David was at his lowest point. He had every right to despair, blame others, or crumble under the pressure.

​Yet, David made a choice that changed everything. He still chose to depend on God. 

​The path David took from devastation to deliverance offers us a powerful blueprint for navigating our own darkest days.

​1. Strengthen Yourself in the Lord (The Anchor)

​When the world around you is collapsing, you must actively secure your anchor. David didn't look to his men, his wisdom, or his reputation for strength; he looked up. The key phrase is: "But David strengthened himself in the Lord his God" (1 Samuel 30:6). This teaches us that inner resilience and the ability to lead others come from deliberately clinging to and finding strength in one's relationship with God, even when facing the consequences of past compromises.

​Action Point: When you feel overwhelmed, stop trying to fix the problem immediately. Instead, deliberately turn your focus to God. Remind yourself of His past faithfulness, His unwavering promises, and His deep love for you. That inner choice to anchor your spirit in Him is the beginning of your recovery.

​2. Inquire of the Lord (The Compass)

​After finding strength, David didn't just rush out to chase the enemy. He sought specific direction using the ephod, asking, "Shall I pursue? Will I overtake?" God’s answer was clear: "Pursue, for you shall surely overtake them and shall surely rescue all."

​This highlights the importance of prayerful decision-making and obedience to the clear guidance received.

Action Point: Never let panic or emotion dictate your next move. When facing a major decision or a crisis, pause, pray, and seek God’s direction. Whether through Scripture, counsel, or prayer, wait for the clarity of His voice. Obedience to His plan, not yours, is the only guarantee of success.

​3. Extend Compassion (The Unexpected Blessing)

​Mid-pursuit, David’s men came upon an abandoned Egyptian slave. In the urgency of their mission, it would have been easy to leave him behind because he was an Egyptian (an enemy) and part of Amalekites. But they stopped and showed him kindness. That man, nourished and revived, became their essential informant, leading them straight to the sleeping enemy camp.

​Action Point: Even when you are deep in your own struggle, do not neglect opportunities for kindness. Compassion is never a distraction; it is often the very key God uses to open the door to your deliverance. When you serve others, God is working behind the scenes to serve your need.

4. Fair Distribution and Unity (Wise Leadership)

Good leadership involves both effective pursuit and wise, unifying distribution of success. No one should be left behind.

Two hundred of David's men were too exhausted to continue the pursuit and had to stay behind to guard the supplies at the Brook Besor. The men who fought argued that the 200 weary men deserved no share of the plunder.

The Action: David implemented a permanent law in Israel: "As is the share of him who goes down into the battle, so shall be the share of him who stays by the baggage; they shall share alike" (1 Samuel 30:24-25). This was an act of wise, compassionate leadership that prevented disunity and honored everyone's contribution to the effort.

​

Conclusion: David Recovered All

​Because David strengthened his heart, sought God’s will, and acted with compassion, the narrative ends with one of the most triumphant phrases in the Old Testament: "David recovered all, and nothing of theirs was missing, whether small or great, sons or daughters, spoil or anything that they had taken for themselves" (1 Samuel 30:19).

​What has the enemy stolen from you? Is it your peace, your joy, your hope, or your sense of purpose? Take courage from David’s story. 

When you place your trust in God, He promises not just survival, but complete restoration. Strengthen yourself in Him today and watch Him lead you to recover all.

The Devil Reads the Bible!

​The idea that the devil reads the Bible might sound provocative, but the Scriptures themselves confirm this chilling truth. The adversary is not merely aware of God’s Word; he is an expert manipulator of it. 

It is said that a good lie (that is a believable one) is always based on an aspect of the truth. And the devil does exactly that !

His knowledge of the Bible is not for worship or obedience, but for warfare and deceit.

​The most profound example of this is found in the wilderness temptation of Jesus Christ.

​The Master of Misquotation

​After forty days of fasting, Jesus was famished. The devil saw his opportunity and launched his attack, moving from tempting Jesus to doubt His identity to tempting Him to misuse His authority. The third temptation is a stunning display of the devil's biblical knowledge:

​"Then the devil took him to the holy city and set him on the pinnacle of the temple and said to him, “If you are the Son of God, throw yourself down, for it is written, and ‘On their hands they will bear you up, lest you strike your foot against a stone.’ ”— Matthew 4:5-6 (ESV), quoting Psalm 91:11-12

​The devil did not quote random poetry or philosophy; he quoted Scripture! He took the promise of divine protection, found in Psalm 91, and twisted it, urging Jesus to test God's faithfulness by placing Himself in needless danger.

​The devil’s knowledge of the Bible is:

• ​Selective: He extracts promises and phrases out of context to support his hypothesis and theory. Do we do that too?

• ​Destructive: He uses the Word of God to undermine the will of God. If we act as in point 1, we too, automatically undermine God's will.

• ​Intellectual, not Spiritual: He knows the letter of the law but rejects its life-giving Spirit and Author.

We need to think, meditate and make sure that our belief in the Word of God is not intellectual alone, but it's a belief that stems from the spirit so that we may partake of the life it offers.

​Our Defense: Knowing the Whole Truth

​Jesus’ response to the devil’s manipulation is our blueprint for spiritual defense. He didn't argue the accuracy of the quote; He countered the context and the intent by quoting other Scripture:

​Jesus said to him, “Again, it is written, ‘You shall not put the Lord your God to the test.’ ”— Matthew 4:7 (ESV), quoting Deuteronomy 6:16

​Jesus revealed the full counsel of God by bringing together a passage on God’s protection (Psalm 91) with a passage on reverent obedience (Deuteronomy 6). He showed that genuine faith does not manipulate God's promises; it walks in humble obedience within God’s will.

​This truth provides us with a critical warning and a powerful encouragement:

​The Warning:

​The devil won't only attack you with tempting thoughts; he will try to defeat you by twisting God's promises, creating doubt, or leading you into presumption. If we only have a surface-level, intellectual familiarity with the Bible, we are vulnerable to his lies.

​“Be sober-minded; be watchful. Your adversary the devil prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour.”

​— 1 Peter 5:8 (ESV)

​The Encouragement:

​The Bible is called the Sword of the Spirit for a reason. When wielded correctly, it is the only weapon that can expose the lies of the enemy and drive him away. The devil flees not when he hears a verse, but when he is confronted by the authoritative, rightly applied Word of God.

​“For the word of God is living and active, sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing to the division of soul and of spirit, of joints and of marrow, and discerning the thoughts and intentions of the heart.”— Hebrews 4:12 (ESV)

​Reflection

​The devil knows enough of the Bible to use it against you. Do you know enough of the Bible to use it against him? Our protection lies not just in reading the Bible, but in studying it deeply, meditating on it faithfully, and living it out obediently, allowing the Holy Spirit to connect the wisdom of every passage.

Response Ability: Pastor Rajiv's Message

Response Ability

The central theme of today's message, is the crucial concept that human free will, or the "ability to respond," is synonymous with responsibility and the power to avoid sin by choosing the right course of action.

What is our response to sin? And what is our response to God? And finally, what is our Response Ability or responsibility as Christians? Today Pastor Rajiv answers these fundamental questions and more, drawing heavily from the Bible passage 1 Corinthians 10:1-13.

Prophet for Hire

Numbers 22:7, 12, and 2 Peter 2:15

​"So the elders of Moab and the elders of Midian departed with the diviner’s fee in their hand, and they came to Balaam and spoke to him the words of Balak. (Numbers 22:7, NKJV)

​And God said to Balaam, “You shall not go with them; you shall not curse the people, for they are blessed.” (Numbers 22:12, NKJV)

​"They have forsaken the right way and gone astray, following the way of Balaam the son of Beor, who loved the wages of unrighteousness..." (2 Peter 2:15, NKJV)

​The story of Balaam, found primarily in Numbers chapters 22-24, is a striking caution against spiritual compromise. Balaam was a genuine prophet who could hear the voice of God, yet he earned the infamous title of "prophet for hire."

​King Balak of Moab, terrified of the powerful Israelites, hired Balaam to curse them. The elders arrived with a "diviner’s fee" in hand—a temptation Balaam could not easily dismiss (Numbers 22:7). God's command to Balaam was crystal clear: "You shall not go with them; you shall not curse the people, for they are blessed" (Numbers 22:12).

​Here is the crux of the story: Balaam obeyed God's words, but not His heart.

• ​The Allure of the Price Tag: Though Balaam initially refused Balak's bribe, he couldn't completely shut the door on the possibility of a reward. When Balak sent richer and more prominent messengers, Balaam went back to God, essentially saying, "Is there any way I can still go?" His heart was set on the "wages of unrighteousness," as later scripture puts it (2 Peter 2:15). He wanted the profit more than he feared God's displeasure.

• ​The Peril of Half-Obedience: Balaam only spoke the words God put in his mouth, delivering blessings instead of curses. Outwardly, he was obedient. However, his divided loyalty led to an ultimate, tragic betrayal. When he couldn't curse Israel directly, he counseled Balak on how to tempt the Israelites into sin through immorality and idolatry, thereby bringing God’s judgment upon themselves (Numbers 31:16, Revelation 2:14). His greed corrupted his genuine gift.

​Reflection: Christians for Convenience 

​Balaam’s story forces us to look inward. We may not be prophets for hire, but are we Christians for convenience? Do we have a divided heart?

• ​Do we seek God's will only when it aligns with our own desires for comfort, prestige, or wealth?

• ​Do we want the blessings of God while still entertaining the temptations of the world?

• ​When we pray, are we truly seeking to hear God's clear command, or are we hoping He will change His mind and validate our greedy ambition?

​Our gifts and calling are sacred, entrusted to us by God for His purposes, not for our financial or personal gain. The error of Balaam is the danger of a heart compromised by love for the world, leading to a spiritual life of half-obedience that ultimately falls into the path of destruction.

​Prayer:

​Heavenly Father, thank You for the warning in the story of Balaam. Forgive us for the times our hearts have been divided, seeking Your blessing while coveting the rewards of this world. Help us to be fully obedient, not just with our words, but with our deepest desires. Set our hearts firmly on You, that we may love Your truth more than any earthly wage. In Jesus' Name, Amen.

ashishjsm@gmail.com

When Fear Replaces Faith

 

When Fear Replaces Faith

"And at that time Hanani the seer came to Asa king of Judah, and said unto him, Because thou hast relied on the king of Syria, and not relied on the LORD thy God, therefore is the host of the king of Syria escaped out of thine hand." — 2 Chronicles 16:7 (KJV)

King Asa had a history with God. He had seen divine intervention, tasted victory through obedience, and witnessed the power of trusting in the Lord. But years later, when faced with a new threat, Asa chose a different path. He leaned on human alliances instead of divine strength. Fear whispered louder than faith, and the result was loss—not just of military advantage, but of spiritual peace.

Fear often disguises itself as wisdom. It tells us to take control, to secure outcomes, to rely on what we can see. But faith calls us to surrender—to trust the unseen hand of God even when the odds seem stacked against us.

 Think about it. how many times have we done the same? We’ve seen God move. We’ve felt His presence in our darkest valleys. Yet when the pressure mounts, we reach for the nearest solution instead of the eternal one. We forget that the God who delivered us before is still on the throne today.

🛐 Faith is not a one-time decision—it’s a daily posture. It’s choosing to rely on God when fear tempts us to rely on ourselves. It’s remembering that our strength is not in strategy, but in surrender.

Let this be your reminder:

• God didn’t help  once—He is our helper still.

• He doesn’t abandon us in the storm—He anchors us through it.

• He doesn’t just rescue—He refines, restores, and redeems.

So if fear is creeping in, pause. Reflect. Remember. Run to the One who never fails. Let faith rise again.

Two Decades of Dread

 

​But Esau ran to meet him, and embraced him, and fell on his neck and kissed him, and they wept. (Genesis 33:4, NKJV)

​Then Jacob said, “No, please, if I have found favor in your sight, then receive my present from my hand, for I have seen your face as though I had seen the face of God, and you were pleased with me.” (Genesis 33:10, NKJV)

The Scene: Fear of Revenge 

​For twenty long years, Jacob, whose name means "supplanter" or "deceiver," lived with the knowledge that he had cheated his brother Esau out of his birthright and his father’s blessing. He fled in fear of his life, and now, returning to the promised land, he faces the moment of reckoning. Jacob is terrified, dividing his family and flocks, hoping to appease his brother with massive gifts. He expects to meet a furious warrior; he prepares for battle.

​The Climax: The Surprise of Grace

​What happens next defies human expectation. Esau approaches, but not as a vengeful enemy. He runs to Jacob. He doesn't strike a blow; he embraces him. He doesn't demand payment; he kisses him. Instead of a clash of swords, there is a flood of tears. Esau’s heart, which Jacob had every right to assume was a fortress of bitterness, had been miraculously softened and purified.

​The Lesson: Seeing God in the Face of the Forgiver

​Jacob’s reaction to this unexpected grace is the key lesson for us. He is so utterly overwhelmed by Esau’s forgiveness that he declares, "I have seen your face as though I had seen the face of God, and you were pleased with me" (Genesis 33:10).

​Why would Jacob compare Esau’s face to the face of God?

A. ​It Revealed Divine Mercy: Jacob knew he deserved justice, which would have meant judgment and death. Instead, he received mercy, which is exactly what we receive from God through Christ. Esau’s forgiveness—unmerited, costly, and overflowing—shone with the light of God's own grace.

B. It Brought Peace: When we finally receive forgiveness, the anxiety and guilt of the past lift. Jacob was set free, not by his expensive gifts, but by Esau's willing heart. This is the profound peace that only God's forgiveness provides, removing the curse and restoring relationship.

C. It Overcame the Impossible: The reconciliation of Jacob and Esau seemed impossible given the depth of their betrayal. But God was at work in the separation, transforming Jacob's character and softening Esau's heart. Their reunion is a testament to God's power to heal the deepest relational wounds.

​Application: Who's Face Do You Need to See Today?

​The question for us today is two-fold:

1. As the Esau: Is there someone in your life who has deeply wronged you? You have every right to hold onto the bitterness, but the story of Esau challenges you to surrender that right. Choose the path of strength—the strength to run toward, embrace, and forgive. When you do, you become an imperfect, yet vivid, reflection of the forgiving heart of God.

2. As the Jacob: Is there a relationship you dread because of the harm you caused? Trust that God has been preparing the way for you. Your job is to humbly approach, seek forgiveness, and, regardless of the outcome, know that your reconciliation with God is already complete because of Christ's cross. When you see genuine human forgiveness, be moved to worship the God who forgives perfectly.

​Prayer:

​Heavenly Father, we confess that it is easier for us to harbor old hurts than to release them. Thank You for the witness of Esau, who chose grace over vengeance. Soften our hearts today where they are hard and full of bitterness. And when we are the ones seeking forgiveness, help us to humbly approach, remembering that every act of mercy we receive is a reflection of Your glorious and forgiving face. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Open Hands, Open Heavens

 

Making Room for Miracles

​The need for control is deeply ingrained in the human spirit. We meticulously plan, manage, and often, try to script the outcomes of our lives, believing that our effort and foresight are the only things standing between us and chaos. We hold the reins tightly, living by the unspoken mantra, "If it is to be, it's up to me."

​But what if our tightly clenched grip leaves no space for the unexpected, the improbable, the truly miraculous? What if our control becomes an obstacle to God's greater plan?

​The Ceiling of Human Control

​When we try to manage every variable—our careers, our relationships, our finances, and even the pace of our spiritual growth—we essentially confine the possible to the limits of our own intelligence and resources. Our need for control becomes the invisible ceiling on God’s power in our lives.

​The Prophet Isaiah speaks directly to the limitations of our human perspective versus God's vast reality:

​"For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways," declares the Lord. "As the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts."  (Isaiah 55:8-9 NIV)

​If God’s ways and thoughts are infinitely higher than ours, then trying to manage everything with our limited vision is an exercise in futility. It is when we acknowledge the limitations of our "ways" that we truly make room for His "higher ways" to manifest.

​The Surrender that Starts the Miracle

​The biblical narrative is replete with examples of God stepping in when human control was intentionally surrendered.

​Consider the overwhelming situation that led to the miracle of the feeding of the five thousand. The disciples looked at the logistical nightmare and immediately defaulted to their human limits: scarcity and inability.

​"But He said, 'Bring them here to Me.' Then He commanded the multitudes to sit down on the grass. And He took the five loaves and the two fish, and looking up to heaven, He blessed and broke and gave the loaves to the disciples; and the disciples gave to the multitudes." (Matthew 14:18-19 NKJV)

​Jesus didn't ask them to find a better solution; He asked them to simply surrender what they had—to release control over the meager offering and the overwhelming problem. When they let go of their calculations and their fear of insufficiency, they made room for a miracle that defied their earthly understanding.

​Releasing control isn't a passive act of giving up; it is an active act of placing our faith in a God who specializes in the impossible. It's a declaration that we trust His power, which is infinite, more than we trust our own, which is finite.

​Trading Anxiety for Trust

​The desire for control is often just another name for anxiety. We attempt to control things because we fear the unknown and the painful. But Jesus offers us a radical alternative: trust.

​"Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own." (Matthew 6:34 NIV)

​When we release control, we are essentially obeying this command. We are saying, "I will not bear the burden of tomorrow's planning and problem-solving. I surrender this day and my future to You, Lord." This surrender is the birthplace of peace and the fertile ground where God’s miracles—both large and small—can take root.

​The Apostle Paul reminds us of the power that takes over when we finally admit we are out of control:

​"My grace is sufficient for you, for My power is made perfect in weakness." (2 Corinthians 12:9 NIV)

​Your weakness—your admission that you cannot handle this problem, fix this person, or control this outcome—is the exact location where God's perfect power is revealed.

​Let go of the need to control the outcome. Focus on trusting the One who already controls all things. Release the reins, and watch the space you create become the perfect stage for God's incredible, miraculous work.

​Reflection & Prayer

​Identify the Grip: What area of your life right now are you most stubbornly trying to control (e.g., a loved one's decision, a financial timeline, a personal failing)?

​Practice Surrender: Meditate on the promise that God's thoughts are higher than yours (Isaiah 55:8-9). Take a moment to mentally or physically loosen your hands, and pray, "Lord, I give you this [problem/situation]. My control is not enough. I make room for Your miracle."

​Rest in Trust: Claim the peace of Jesus by releasing tomorrow's worries to Him (Matthew 6:34).

 

The King is My Shepherd: Pastor Rajiv's Message

 

I have Had Enough! Hope Beneath the Broom Tree

 

Read 1 Kings 19:3–9

"And behold, an angel touched him and said to him, ‘Arise and eat.’” — 1 Kings 19:5

There are moments when life feels too heavy to carry. Like Elijah under the broom tree, we may find ourselves saying, “I’ve had enough, Lord.” Exhausted, discouraged, and alone, we wonder if we can go any further.

Things could not have been worse for Elijah. All his colleague prophets had been killed and he was the last one - with a promise that he too would be killed that day. He ran away - into the hot wilderness till he could run no more. He could not go back and had no strength left to go further - so he lay down to die. He gave up trying to fight against all the odds against him. 

But even in the wilderness God met him and cared for him, even though Elijah was unaware - in sleep.  This is His story of hope as it is ours- when God meets us in our "wilderness", or our deepest trouble, even when we are unaware that He is at work. 

Elijah didn’t receive a rebuke. He received rest. He didn’t hear a sermon. He felt a touch. God sent an angel—not with grand solutions, but with bread and water. Simple provisions. Quiet care. A reminder that even in despair, we are not forgotten.

This passage reminds us that hope doesn’t always roar. Sometimes, God whispers hope through rest, nourishment, and His gentle presence. 

When we feel like giving up, God invites us to rise—not in our own strength, but in His. He knows our limits. He honors our humanity. And He provides exactly what we need for the journey ahead.

So today, if we are in the "wilderness" ready to give up, lets think and reflect - 

• Where is your wilderness? Name the place where you feel weary, overwhelmed, or alone.

• What provision has God placed before you? It may be rest, a friend’s encouragement, a verse, family, or quiet time. Receive it.

• Pray with honesty and hope: “Lord, I feel tired. I feel stretched. But I thank You that You meet me here. Help me to rest in Your presence and rise in Your strength. Thank You for Your gentle care and faithful provision.”

God doesn’t just call us to mountaintops—He walks with us through valleys. And in the wilderness, He whispers hope. You are not alone. You are not forgotten. You are being restored, one step at a time.

Elijah’s story reminds us that even the strongest among us can feel weary, overwhelmed, and ready to give up. But God does not abandon us in those moments. He comes close. He provides rest. He nourishes us. And He gently calls us to rise again—not in our own strength, but in His.

If you are in a wilderness season, know this: God sees you. He understands your exhaustion. And He is already preparing what you need for the journey ahead. His provision may come quietly—a word of encouragement, a moment of peace, a simple act of kindness—but it is always enough.

So, arise. Eat. Rest. Trust. You are not alone, and this is not the end. The same God who met Elijah under the broom tree is meeting you now—with grace, with strength, and with hope.