Hey friends, thanks for tuning in to this LIFE ON MISSION with Tanner Klein podcast. In the last podcast-post, I shared A Glimpse into The Real Reality of our LIVES ON MISSION in PARIS 🇫🇷 4 mo. here in a 10x10 Studio✨.

But that’s not the whole story. I briefly mentioned the huge need for discipleship here, the Good News of Jesus taking root, powerful weekly home gatherings, and some amazing opportunities God’s given us to invest both in people’s lives and in the Body of Christ here. There are some exceedingly good things God is doing here that surpass the struggles we’ve come up against.

MY CONVICTION TO GO

First, I want to share a conviction I have from the Lord.

I am convinced that the Lord has called me to live as an ambassador of Christ and His Kingdom to the nations, to let His light shine wherever the Good Shepherd leads me to go.

I’ve been convinced that God was inviting me to go to other nations as an ambassador of Christ and His Kingdom since I was about 12 years old. It was then, for the first time, I heard about missions and reaching the unreached and unengaged. These are people groups across the world who have limited or no access to the Bible or at least a Bible in their mother tongue, or to churches, or to followers of Christ. Or, people groups who have been reached to one extent or another, but are not currently being engaged by anyone who follows Jesus.

That blew my mind.

There are people who have never heard the Good News of Jesus. No message of forgiveness of sins, repentance, renewal, new life, and life abundant. No one to share of God’s grace. No concept of God’s love made manifest through Jesus, including His sinless life, sacrificial death, and victorious resurrection—defeating sin, death, and the deceiver. No concept of salvation by grace through faith and eternity with the Lover of our souls, the LORD our Creator, our Savior, our Redeemer, our Lord, our best Friend. No idea of the goodness and power of the one, true, living God.

Nothing.

Not only that…I found out we know exactly where essentially all these people groups live.

We even have clear ways to get to them.

But for whatever reason, real or imagined, thousands of these unreached and unengaged people groups exist to this day.

It’s been 2000 years since Jesus commanded His disciples to go and share the Good News of the Kingdom to all nations.

But for whatever reason, real or imagined, followers of Christ have counted the cost to go to other places, but not to these remaining strongholds of darkness.

This is not without reason. The unreached places that exist are not easy to reach—not at all.

Neverthless, I thought in my 12 year old mind: “Here I am, Lord, send me!”

“If it’s a matter of willingness, I’ve got that. Send me, Lord!”

God had a lot of heart, mind, and soul prep ahead of me in the years that followed.

But that real conviction and call persisted and deepened.

THE SPIRITUAL DESERT MASKED BY BEAUTY

I expected God to direct me to dark places where the Good News and light of Christ are not yet shining. I had a strong sense the Lord would lead me to a spiritual desert.

And He did…but outer appearances can be deceiving.

First it was Indonesia, then Singapore, then across SE Asia—Indonesia again, Hong Kong, Cambodia, Vietnam—and for whatever reason, while I was there, the Lord called me toward Europe, not just anywhere, but to “the city of love,” “the city of lights,” Paris.

How romantic.

Little did I know that a spiritual desert could be masked by beautifully designed architecture, parks, and fountains resembling a golden age of the past.

Paris is a beautiful city. There’s no doubt about it.

I much prefer created beauty over man-made beauty—oceans, mountains, rivers, & green over buildings, museums, statues, & concrete—nevertheless, there’s no denying Paris is a beautiful city.

Having said that, it’s good to remember God’s words to the prophet Samuel regarding Israel’s next king after Saul, David.

“For the LORD sees not as man sees: man looks on the outward appearance, but the LORD looks on the heart.”

- 1 Samuel 16:7

Spiritually speaking, Paris is largely dark, dry, and in many ways, dead. But, not completely, not everywhere.

There are pockets of brilliant, bright light.

There are beacons, like moving lighthouses across the city—God’s people.

Christ followers are meeting in churches, in parks, in homes, in cafes, and beyond.

Not only that, the nations are gathered here. There are people from nearly every tribe, tongue, and nation living among the 10m+ souls here in the Paris region.

That is exciting. That is really good news for us disciples of Jesus.

Why? Because Jesus said to His disciples:

“All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age.”

- Matthew 28:18-20

Jesus also spoke about the end times before His second coming. In particular, He speaks of this Good News of the Kingdom being proclaimed to the whole world, to all nations, before the end comes. His words are recorded in Matthew 24:14,

“This gospel of the kingdom will be proclaimed throughout the whole world as a testimony to all nations, and then the end will come.”

Feel free to read that again.

When will the end come? Well, according to the Son of God, the end will come after the gospel of the kingdom will be proclaimed throughout the whole world as a testimony to all nations.

So, brothers and sisters, we’ve got some work to do with Jesus, don’t we? Here’s some unexpected news: You probably don’t need to go far.

GOD HAS BROUGHT THE NATIONS TO US

First, we serve a big God, the God who is Lord over all the nations. The King of kings, the Lord of lords.

Now, just for a moment, or maybe a few, I want to invite you to drop whatever your views on immigration are, whether legal or illegal.

Consider this reality with me…we live in a time and age of unprecedented international connection, from social media and the internet, to real people moving from one nation to another: some for better opportunities for themselves, for their families, or for their children, others fleeing war, and many other reasons.

So what’s the point?

Well, some of us, like my wife and I, are called to go to the nations as representatives of Christ and His Kingdom of Light.

The rest of us can sit back, relax, and enjoy the one-way ticket to eternal life with Jesus and our buddies, right?

According to Jesus, no. That’s not His invitation for us. That’s not following His example.

Instead, all of us, every soul who claims that Jesus is his or her Savior and Lord, are invited to live as representatives of Christ and His Kingdom of Light wherever He places us on this earth. In our neighborhoods, in our workplaces, in our schools—wherever we are.

Jesus was and still is is committed to “This gospel of the kingdom [being] be proclaimed throughout the whole world as a testimony to all nations.”

So, if we are true disciples, true followers and apprentices of Jesus, then we all have a role to play.

That is some good news. For the sake of all those who are zooming down the wide and easy rode that leads to destruction, the way we live, love, speak, and act as witnesses and representatives of Jesus can help save lost souls from certain judgement.

You might have neighbors or colleges from other nations without access to the Bible in their language, or churches, or small groups, or even people who love Jesus.

You might know someone who has never had a conversation with a faith-filled follower of Jesus.

Our God can give us eyes to see them more like He does, and help us show them compassion like Jesus does.

With God’s Spirit working in us, we can simply plant Kingdom seeds and water them, trusting that God will bring the growth.

We can sow seeds of love, of grace, of truth.

We can be a friend and build meaningful relationships.

We can listen to people’s stories and share ours, including how Jesus changed our lives or even how He changed our day for the better.

We can choose to forgive, show mercy, and seek peace in our relationships.

We can speak words that bring life and not death.

We can let God empower us to drop bad habits and invite His love to realign our affections.

We can reach out to others in love, even when we don’t get anything back in return.

We can show grace to someone who doesn’t deserve it, like Jesus shows grace to us.

We can lovingly point others to Jesus, share the Good News of the Kingdom, and help disciple others toward Christlikeness, knowing it’s our awesome God who truly brings transformation.

We can know, it’s the Lord of the Harvest, who brings the harvest and raises up laborers to go and work the harvest.

Speaking of God bringing the harvest, I have some highlights to share.

GOOD NEWS FROM SUNDAY

Here’s something that God has used to really encourage my faith this week. The Lord provided some incredible opportunities to let His light shine on Sunday.

* I got to pray for three women at different times, one from the Middle East, one from Africa, and one from South America.

* Madison Rose and I even got to see God partially open the ear of one of these women who had not been hearing from that ear! Hallelujah!

* I got to testify of Christ and the goodness of God to several people, two from the US, two from the UK, two from Nigeria, two from France, and one from Thailand.

* I got to pray for a woman from Australia and share a Scripture the Lord brought to my mind to share with her. It turns out that was the confirmation she needed, as she read that same passage earlier that morning. That was the power of the Holy Spirit on display.

* I even got to share the Gospel with someone who was visiting our local church for the 1st time. In response to hearing the Good News, this person told me: “I believe!” It was an awesome moment worth celebrating. All glory to God!

As I reflected on the power-packed day, thanking God for all these encounters, in prayer, the Lord posed two questions to me:

Have I not called you an ambassador to the nations, to let My light shine?

I wrote down my response in prayer, “You have, Lord. Hallelujah!”

Are not the nations gathered here, now?

“They are, Lord!” I responded.

It was a sweet, powerful moment, sensing the Lord’s confirmation that I am in the center of His will.

I know our God is faithful to lead and guide us into all truth, as He said His Spirit would.

So, despite all the challenges related to being here, now, in Paris. No amount of spiritual warfare, or intense heat, or mosquitos, or pollution, or eczema, or bad pain from a bad bed, or sickness, or bike issues, or tooth issues, or lack of space in our 10x10 studio, can thwart the beautiful plans and purpose of God.

It really is an honor to be here now.

It’s an honor to be an ambassador of our Lord and King Jesus, and His Kingdom of Light, in this city that so desperately needs real love, life, and light.

Please join us in praying for this city! If Paris can be redeemed, any place can be redeemed, no matter how seemingly dark, dry, or dead.

Jesus reigns!

It says in John 1:1-5,

“In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was in the beginning with God. All things were made through him, and without him was not any thing made that was made. In him was life, and the life was the light of men. The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.”

May God bless you today to walk in the light, love the light, and let Christ’s light shine as an ambassador of Jesus and His Kingdom of Light.

Hey friends, I wanted to share a little glimpse into the real reality of our LIVES ON MISSION here in Paris after 4 months.

Madison Rose and I have been living in a 10’x10’ studio for nearly 4 months now…and yes, we still love each other—by God’s grace, even more now! All glory to our God for helping us navigate this hot, little room.

Allow me to paint the picture for you. Imagine this with me…

It’s 32+ degrees (celsius) outside, that’s 90+ degrees (Fahrenheit) for my American friends, and it’s probably hotter inside this top floor metal-roofed box—there’s no escape. You spent 3:31-4:03am hunting down every last mosquito, even the one hiding behind the bed. It’s now 7pm and you’re dripping sweat inside, cold rags hanging off your bare shoulders, mosquito bites inflamed, skin itching, and the spice jar falls off the table again. And, the fan falls off the chair again. And, the cut up veggies end up on the floor again.

You need to be abiding in Jesus to not let these add to the list of internalized micro-frustrations.

Lots of grace, prayer, and communication have been crucial for us. Keeping our eyes on Jesus has been essential.

Not long ago, God even blessed us with a 3 week house-sit at our friend’s 2 bedroom apartment. Their entryway is bigger than our entire studio. It was amazing and a much needed escape from the tiny space, heat, and mosquitoes.

These first 4 months have been challenging, no doubt.

Madison’s tooth issues were horrible during our first few weeks here. We were in and out of the dentist for several weeks.

The heat is unexpectedly brutal. Heat rises, we’re on the top floor, and we’ve got a metal roof above us that heats up our studio like an oven and only cools off just before the sun rises.

The mosquitos have been relentless, even biting my lips and making my bottom lip swell up like I had a lip injection gone horribly wrong.

Even our pull-out sofa bed has been a source of back pain for both of us.

We do have a shower in our studio, but not a bathroom (including a toilet & sink)—that can be found down the hall. And while our hallway toilet room is private (thank You, Lord for that), there’s not quite enough room to use the toilet without jamming my knees into the sink, wall, or door, so I do my business facing the corner.

You get the picture. It’s not comfy. Just Paris things, you know.✨ Adaptability is key.

This already feels like a mini-rant but I’m smiling as I write and share this.

There’s more. Just a few more things to really paint the picture.

We’ve got probably 4-5 sq. ft. of counter space. In other words, there’s no space for anything. So, we started to keep a tally of all the things that get knocked over or dropped in a day as we shuffle around each and move the table, chairs, and bed to navigate the room.

We’ve chosen to shift our perspectives to thank God in what would otherwise be frustrating moments.

My eczema has been bad, similar to how bad it was during my first sunless winter in Paris. It’s been bad then better than bad, and by God’s grace, it’s been pretty good as of the last week or so. Thank You, Lord, for that!

The city bikes we use to get around function as they should probably 2-3x out of 10, leading to trips like yesterday’s—what should have been a 38 min bike ride with our luggage from one place to another, took over 1h30 min.

The air-quality and pollution here are not good. Seriously not good. We’re coming back from every outing with plenty of fun filling our noses.

We’ve gotten sick more times in the last few months than in the last couple years, I think.

It hasn’t been easy to say the least, and that’s ok. Come to think of it, we didn’t sign up for easy. We signed up to follow Jesus where, when, and how He leads. That can be uncomfortable. We figured it’d be less than comfy at times. Although, with each challenge comes God’s grace to help us overcome and persevere with hope.

We’ve seen it come to fruition again and again:

Where God guides, He provides.

Madison Rose and I have been keeping a handful of passages in mind on the regular. One that really stands out has been 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18. It declares the will of God for us:

“Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.”

So effective. So powerful, yet so simple. Our Creator God, the Source of all wisdom and grace, the Lover of our souls knows what’s best for us, what’s best for His kids. And it’s amazing to take His words, put them into practice, and see what results. It is mind blowing.

This passage has been such a testament of God’s perfect will truly proving to be for our good. With the encouragement and help of the Holy Spirit, the more we choose to rejoice in the Lord, pray, and give thanks—knowing this is God’s will for us—we experience the Lord and become aware of His presence. The more joy we feel. The more connected we become to God and to each other. The more abundant life we experience, even in the midst of what really seemed to be challenging circumstances.

And this passage simply starts with God’s Word telling us exactly what God’s will is, with three simple commands: rejoice, pray, & give thanks. No conditions added. Simply choose to rejoice, pray, and give thanks to God, and watch. You just wait, in a matter of no time, God responds and things change—especially our perspectives.

There’s another similar verse that we just discussed with friends last night. In fact, this was a verse that God had been really placing on Madison Rose’s heart leading up to our first interaction on the day we met a few years ago in Paris.

In Ephesians 5:20, it says we are to

Give thanks “always and for everything to God the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.”

I’ll have to get Madison Rose on this podcast so we can share the story of our first interactions together.

With the help of the Holy Spirit, putting these verses into practice has been crucial for us as we seek the Lord, receive uncircumstantial joy from Him, and seek to love each other well even when our circumstances haven’t been ideal. Rejoicing, praying, and giving thanks daily has been key in helping us embrace God’s call for us to be here, living as ambassadors of Christ and His Kingdom.

Despite all we’ve faced, we have unrelenting hope because our God is faithful. He’s got us, and He’s convinced us of that. He cares for souls here in Paris and wants His people letting His light shine brightly in every district, every arrondissement of this city. This has been a powerful four months of persevering and investing in God’s everlasting Kingdom.

I’m excited to share more about the huge need for discipleship here, the Good News of Jesus taking root, powerful weekly home gatherings, and some amazing opportunities God’s given us to invest both in people’s lives and in the Body of Christ here.

There’s more to come in the upcoming podcast-posts. Until then, here’s my encouragement to you: Make your choice today. By faith, not based on the circumstances you see, you can choose to:

“Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, [and] give thanks in all circumstances”

Why? Because,

“this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.”

Also, a friendly reminder. You’re not alone in this. It says in Philippians 2:13 that:

“It is God who works in you, both to will and to work for his good pleasure.”

God will help you learn to practice rejoicing, praying, and giving thanks. And the same God who works in you, is the same God who wants to bless you with His presence, love, grace, and peace. What a beautiful God we get to know and serve. What a faithful Father in heaven.

This free devotional comes from my book, Thank You, Father: 30 Days of Gratitude, Prayer, & Praise - Men’s Devotional, available on Amazon: Ebook, $7.99 (or $0.00 for Kindle Unlimited) or Paperback, $13.99. If you’ve been blessed by this devotional, you can leave a review on Amazon—that would bless me.

Day 27: God's Promised Provision

“Therefore do not be anxious, saying, 'What shall we eat?' or 'What shall we drink?' or 'What shall we wear?' For the Gentiles seek after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them all. But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.”

Matthew 6:31-33

“And my God will supply every need of yours according to His riches in glory in Christ Jesus. To our God and Father be glory forever and ever. Amen.”

Philippians 4:19-20

“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

Devotional

These passages reveal that our Father in heaven is the paramount Provider for His children.

Though God has promised to supply every need of ours according to “His riches in glory in Christ Jesus” (Phil. 4:19), anxiety concerning our material needs can dominate our thought-life.

We can let feelings of worry either shift our gaze from the Lord or redirect our focus to Him—the Source of all we need.

Thankfully, it is impossible for God to be unfaithful.

Our all-knowing Father knows our needs and assures us that if we seek Him first, He will abundantly give all that we require.

Only our God is able to meet both our earthly and eternal needs, now and forevermore.

His love and sacrifice through Jesus definitively demonstrate His willingness to generously give us everything we need for life and godliness.

Men of God

As men, we often bear the weight of providing for ourselves and our families.

However, God’s Word reminds us that the LORD has been, is, and will be our true Provider.

He is the Source of every good and every perfect gift: the breath in our lungs, meaningful life with Him, daily essentials, health, friends, relatives, and family-in-faith alike.

God is the Giver of our irrevocable gifts and calling (Rom. 11:29).

He cultivates our faith and intellect as well as our vocational and relational skills. He is the One who graciously empowers us to do what He’s called us to do.

If our Father provided a way for us to enjoy eternal life and relationship with Him through Christ’s atoning sacrifice, how much more can we trust Him to give us the necessities of life.

The LORD has proven He is for us; we can trust that He will supply our needs according to His glorious riches as He promised.

Application

Take a moment to reflect on the ways God has provided for you and your family in the past. Remember moments when He blessed you with more than you expected or gave you what you needed exactly when you needed it. Recall a time when God made a way where there seemed to be no way. Give Him praise in response.

When you face uncertainty, you can choose anxiety or you can choose trust. In an act of trust, give thanks to God in advance. Praise Him before you get what you need from Him. Relinquish control and turn to God in prayer. Seek Him first, knowing that He cares and is faithful to provide for your needs. Trust in His promises and resist the temptation to give anxiety a foothold in your heart, for the LORD your God will sustain you. As you continue cultivating a lifestyle of gratitude, you will come to find more and more joy in seeking Christ first.

Prayer

Awesome God,

All glory and praise belongs to You.

You have proven that You are for us. You gave Your Son for us; how much more will You graciously provide for us!

Thank You for Your Spirit empowering me to choose trust in You over fear.

Thank You for Your promises assuring me of Your generous provision.

You truly know what I need and You have never failed me, Lord.

Teach me to give thanks and rejoice in You at all times, whether I am in need or abounding.

Teach and help me to seek You first in every aspect of my life, to seek Your Kingdom and righteousness above all else.

In the name of Jesus, I pray. Amen.

Divine Dialogue

Pause, Listen, Record, and Respond

John 10:1-18

Klein, Tanner. "Day 27: God's Promised Provision." Thank You, Father: 30 Days of Gratitude, Prayer, & Praise, KLEINHAUS Books, 2024, pp. 221-227.

*Thank You, Father: 30 Days of Gratitude, Prayer, & Praise - Men’s Devotional is available on Amazon: Ebook, $7.99 (or $0.00 for Kindle Unlimited) or Paperback, $13.99.* If you’ve been blessed by this devotional, you can leave a review on Amazon—that would bless me.

🇫🇷 La traduction française

Jour 27 : La Provision Promise de Dieu

« Ne vous inquiétez donc point, en disant : Que mangerons-nous ? que boirons-nous ? de quoi serons-nous vêtus ? Toutes ces choses, ce sont les païens qui les recherchent. Or votre Père céleste sait que vous en avez besoin. Cherchez premièrement le royaume de Dieu et sa justice, et toutes ces choses vous seront données par-dessus. »

Matthieu 6.31–33

« Et mon Dieu pourvoira à tous vos besoins selon sa richesse, avec gloire, en Jésus-Christ. À notre Dieu et Père soient la gloire aux siècles des siècles ! Amen ! »

Philippiens 4.19–20

« Que dirons-nous donc à l’égard de ces choses ? Si Dieu est pour nous, qui sera contre nous ? Lui qui n’a pas épargné son propre Fils, mais qui l’a livré pour nous tous, comment ne nous donnera-t-il pas aussi tout avec lui ? »

Romains 8.31–32

Méditation

Ces passages révèlent que notre Père céleste est le Fournisseur suprême pour ses enfants.

Bien que Dieu ait promis de pourvoir à tous nos besoins selon « sa richesse, avec gloire, en Jésus-Christ » (Phil. 4.19), l’inquiétude liée à nos besoins matériels peut dominer nos pensées.

Nous pouvons laisser les préoccupations détourner notre regard du Seigneur — ou les laisser nous ramener vers Lui, la Source de tout ce dont nous avons besoin.

Heureusement, il est impossible pour Dieu d’être infidèle.

Notre Père, qui connaît toutes choses, sait parfaitement ce dont nous avons besoin. Et Il nous assure que si nous cherchons d’abord Son Royaume et Sa justice, Il nous donnera en abondance ce qui est nécessaire.

Lui seul est capable de répondre à nos besoins — ici-bas et pour l’éternité.

Son amour et Son sacrifice en Jésus sont la preuve ultime de Sa volonté de nous donner généreusement tout ce qui est utile à la vie et à la piété.

Pour Les Hommes de Dieu

En tant qu’hommes, nous portons souvent le fardeau de devoir subvenir à nos besoins et à ceux de nos familles.

Cependant, la Parole de Dieu nous rappelle que l’Éternel a toujours été, est encore, et sera toujours notre véritable Pourvoyeur.

Il est la Source de tout bien et de tout don parfait : le souffle dans nos poumons, une vie remplie de sens avec Lui, nos besoins quotidiens, la santé, les amitiés, nos proches et notre famille dans la foi.

Dieu est le Donateur de nos dons et de notre appel irrévocables (Rom. 11.29).

C’est Lui qui fait croître notre foi, notre intelligence, nos capacités professionnelles et relationnelles. C’est Lui qui nous donne avec grâce la force d’accomplir ce qu’Il nous appelle à faire.

Si notre Père a fourni un chemin vers la vie éternelle et la réconciliation avec Lui par le sacrifice de Christ, à combien plus forte raison pouvons-nous Lui faire confiance pour pourvoir à nos besoins terrestres !

L’Éternel a démontré qu’Il est pour nous — nous pouvons donc nous reposer avec confiance sur Sa provision glorieuse, comme Il l’a promis.

Application

Prends un moment pour réfléchir aux façons dont Dieu a pourvu à tes besoins et à ceux de ta famille dans le passé.Souviens-toi des moments où Il t’a béni au-delà de tes attentes, ou t’a donné exactement ce dont tu avais besoin au bon moment. Rappelle-toi un temps où Dieu a ouvert un chemin là où aucun chemin n’était visible. Et rends-lui gloire en retour.

Quand tu fais face à l’incertitude, tu peux choisir l’inquiétude ou la confiance. Par un acte de foi, remercie Dieu à l’avance. Loue-Le avant même de recevoir ce que tu attends de Lui.

Relâche le contrôle et tourne-toi vers Lui dans la prière. Cherche-Le en premier, sachant qu’Il prend soin de toi et qu’Il est fidèle à Sa promesse de pourvoir à tes besoins.

Résiste à la tentation de laisser l’anxiété dominer ton cœur. Le Seigneur ton Dieu te soutiendra.

Et alors que tu continues de cultiver un style de vie marqué par la gratitude, tu découvriras de plus en plus de joie à chercher d’abord Christ.

Prière

Dieu Tout-Puissant,

Toute la gloire et toute la louange te reviennent.

Tu as prouvé que Tu es pour nous. Tu as donné ton Fils pour nous —à combien plus forte raison nous donneras-tu avec grâce tout ce dont nous avons besoin !

Merci pour ton Esprit, qui m’aide à choisir la confiance plutôt que la peur.

Merci pour tes promesses qui m’assurent de ta généreuse provision.

Tu connais véritablement mes besoins, et tu ne m’as jamais abandonné, Seigneur.

Apprends-moi à te remercier et à me réjouir en toi en toute circonstance,que je sois dans le besoin ou dans l’abondance.

Apprends-moi et aide-moi à te chercher en premier dans tous les aspects de ma vie,à chercher ton Royaume et ta justice par-dessus tout.

Au nom de Jésus, je prie.Amen.

Dialogue Divin

Pause, Écoute, Note et Réponds

Jean 10.1–18

🇫🇷 La traduction française de:

Klein, Tanner. "Day 27: God's Promised Provision." Thank You, Father: 30 Days of Gratitude, Prayer, & Praise, KLEINHAUS Books, 2024, pp. 221-227.

*Thank You, Father: 30 Days of Gratitude, Prayer, & Praise - Men’s Devotional est disponible sur Amazon : Ebook, 7,99 $ (ou 0,00 $ pour Kindle Unlimited) ou Broché, 13,99 $.* Si cette dévotion vous a été bénéfique, vous pouvez laisser un avis sur Amazon — cela me bénirait.

*La version biblique utilisée : Colombe (COL)

This free devotional comes from my book, Thank You, Father: 30 Days of Gratitude, Prayer, & Praise - Men’s Devotional, available on Amazon: Ebook, $7.99 (or $0.00 for Kindle Unlimited) or Paperback, $13.99. If you’ve been blessed by this devotional, you can leave a review on Amazon—that would bless me.

Day 26: Restored by the LORD’s 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

“The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want. He makes me lie down in green pastures. He leads me beside still waters. He restores my soul. He leads me in paths of righteousness for his name's sake. Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me.”

Psalm 23:1-4

Devotional

The LORD our God is our ever-present Savior and mighty Deliverer. He is ready to rescue His children in times of affliction and distress.

The Lord is our Good Shepherd, Wonderful Counselor, and constant Companion.

He understands our pain and is present to uplift and strengthen us to be vessels of His comfort.

Though we face many trials, God not only delivers us, but also uses our testimonies to encourage others in the midst of their own battles.

Our Father designed us to find soul-satisfying comfort in Him and to share the same comfort with others.

As we do, we introduce others to God Himself, our compassionate Comforter.

Men of God

We often face pressure to appear strong and unaffected by life's challenges.

However, these verses remind us that though we are afflicted, we can count on God's promised comfort, presence, and counsel.

We can trust that when we draw near to God, He draws near to us (Jas. 4:8).

He meets us where we are.

Though we could never ascend to God in heaven, He proved His care by coming to us. The “Word became flesh and dwelt among us” (John 1:14).

So, we can honestly acknowledge our vulnerabilities before our Father who knows them already, and receive His loving support.

Even in the darkest valley, our Good Shepherd walks with us, offering us the assurance of His presence and the hope of deliverance.

Application

Remember God’s willingness to meet you where you are as you draw near to Him. Consider how the LORD has been faithful to comfort you in times of need. Give thanks to your Deliverer for what He has done, seen and unseen.

Respond to the Lord’s invitation to release your worries and receive His comfort. Embrace His care and allow Him to heal your pain. As God’s comfort ministers to your soul, trust Him to provide opportunities to extend the same comfort to others. Seek opportunities to share God's love and life-giving truth with those around you who need it as much as you do.

Prayer

Heavenly Father,

Thank You for being the God of all comfort amid this world of chaos.

In times of brokenness, You were near to me. You have drawn me close and given me peace.

You restore my soul. You alone truly satisfy my greatest needs. Thank You, Lord.

You were my Good Shepherd then and You are my Good Shepherd now.

I surrender my worries to You, caring King.

Keep me from dismissing or resisting Your love. Help me to receive Your care and respond to Your voice.

May I be a vessel of Your comfort to others, that they may experience Your love and compassion through me.

In Jesus' name, I pray. Amen.

Divine Dialogue

Pause, Listen, Record, and Respond

1 Samuel 3:10

Klein, Tanner. "Day 26: Restored by the LORD’s Comfort." Thank You, Father: 30 Days of Gratitude, Prayer, & Praise, KLEINHAUS Books, 2024, pp. 213-219.

*Thank You, Father: 30 Days of Gratitude, Prayer, & Praise - Men’s Devotional is available on Amazon: Ebook, $7.99 (or $0.00 for Kindle Unlimited) or Paperback, $13.99.* If you’ve been blessed by this devotional, you can leave a review on Amazon—that would bless me.

🇫🇷 La traduction française

Jour 26 : Rétabli par la Consolation de l’Éternel

« Béni soit le Dieu et Père de notre Seigneur Jésus-Christ, le Père des compassions et le Dieu de toute consolation, qui nous console dans toute notre affliction, afin que nous puissions consoler ceux qui se trouvent dans quelque affliction, par la consolation dont nous sommes nous-mêmes consolés par Dieu. »2 Corinthiens 1.3-4

« L’Éternel est mon berger : je ne manquerai de rien. Il me fait reposer dans de verts pâturages, il me dirige près des eaux paisibles. Il restaure mon âme, il me conduit dans les sentiers de la justice, à cause de son nom. Quand je marche dans la vallée de l’ombre de la mort, je ne crains aucun mal, car tu es avec moi : ta houlette et ton bâton, voilà mon réconfort. »Psaume 23.1-4

Méditation

L’Éternel, notre Dieu, est notre Sauveur toujours présent et notre puissant Libérateur. Il est prêt à secourir ses enfants dans l’affliction et la détresse.

Le Seigneur est notre bon berger, notre merveilleux conseiller, notre compagnon fidèle.

Il comprend notre douleur et est présent pour nous relever et nous fortifier afin que nous devenions des instruments de sa consolation.

Même si nous traversons de nombreuses épreuves, Dieu ne fait pas que nous en délivrer : Il utilise aussi nos témoignages pour encourager d'autres au cœur de leurs propres combats.

Notre Père nous a créés pour trouver en Lui un réconfort profond, et pour partager ce même réconfort autour de nous.

Ainsi, nous introduisons les autres à Dieu lui-même, notre Consolateur compatissant.

Pour Les Hommes de Dieu

Nous ressentons souvent la pression d’avoir l’air forts et insensibles face aux défis de la vie.

Mais ces versets nous rappellent que, même affligés, nous pouvons compter sur la consolation promise, la présence fidèle et le conseil divin de notre Dieu.

Nous pouvons avoir confiance que lorsque nous nous approchons de Dieu, Il s’approche de nous (Jacques 4.8).

Il nous rencontre là où nous en sommes.

Bien que nous soyons incapables de monter jusqu’à Dieu dans les cieux, Il a prouvé son amour en venant à nous. « La Parole a été faite chair, et elle a habité parmi nous » (Jean 1.14).

Nous pouvons donc reconnaître honnêtement nos vulnérabilités devant notre Père, qui les connaît déjà, et recevoir son soutien plein d’amour.

Même dans la vallée la plus sombre, notre bon Berger marche avec nous, nous assurant de sa présence et nous offrant l’espérance de la délivrance.

Application

Souviens-toi de la disposition de Dieu à te rencontrer là où tu es, alors que tu t’approches de Lui.

Réfléchis à la fidélité de l’Éternel dans ta vie — comment Il t’a consolé dans tes moments de besoin. Remercie ton Libérateur pour ce qu’Il a fait, tant dans le visible que dans l’invisible.

Réponds à l’invitation du Seigneur : dépose tes inquiétudes, et reçois sa consolation. Accueille ses soins et laisse-Le guérir tes blessures. Alors que la consolation de Dieu apaise ton âme, fais-Lui confiance pour te donner des occasions de transmettre cette même consolation aux autres.

Cherche à partager l’amour de Dieu et la vérité qui donne la vie à ceux qui t’entourent — car eux aussi en ont besoin, tout autant que toi.

Prière

Père céleste,

Merci d’être le Dieu de toute consolation dans ce monde de chaos.

Dans mes temps de brisure, Tu étais proche de moi. Tu m’as attiré à Toi et Tu m’as donné la paix.

Tu restaures mon âme. Toi seul satisfais pleinement mes besoins les plus profonds. Merci, Seigneur.

Tu étais mon bon Berger hier, Tu es encore mon bon Berger aujourd’hui.

Je T’abandonne mes inquiétudes, Roi plein de tendresse.

Garde-moi de repousser ou d’ignorer Ton amour. Aide-moi à recevoir Tes soins et à répondre à Ta voix.

Fais de moi un instrument de Ta consolation pour les autres, afin qu’ils expérimentent Ton amour et Ta compassion à travers moi.

Au nom de Jésus, je prie. Amen.

Dialogue Divin

Pause, Écoute, Note et Réponds

« Parle, Éternel, car Ton serviteur écoute. »

1 Samuel 3:10

🇫🇷 La traduction française de:

Klein, Tanner. "Day 25: God's Patience Prompts Repentance." Thank You, Father: 30 Days of Gratitude, Prayer, & Praise, KLEINHAUS Books, 2024, pp. 205-211.

*Thank You, Father: 30 Days of Gratitude, Prayer, & Praise - Men’s Devotional est disponible sur Amazon : Ebook, 7,99 $ (ou 0,00 $ pour Kindle Unlimited) ou Broché, 13,99 $.* Si cette dévotion vous a été bénéfique, vous pouvez laisser un avis sur Amazon — cela me bénirait.

*La version biblique utilisée : Colombe (COL)

This free devotional comes from my book, Thank You, Father: 30 Days of Gratitude, Prayer, & Praise - Men’s Devotional, available on Amazon: Ebook, $7.99 (or $0.00 for Kindle Unlimited) or Paperback, $13.99. If you’ve been blessed by this devotional, you can leave a review on Amazon—that would bless me.

Day 25: God's Patience Prompts Repentance

“The Lord is not slow to fulfill His promise as some count slowness, but is patient toward you, not wishing that any should perish, but that all should reach repentance.”

2 Peter 3:9

“Or do you presume on the riches of His kindness and forbearance and patience, not knowing that God's kindness is meant to lead you to repentance?”

Romans 2:4

“But they and our fathers acted presumptuously and stiffened their neck and did not obey Your commandments...But you are a God ready to forgive, gracious and merciful, slow to anger and abounding in steadfast love, and did not forsake them.”

Nehemiah 9:16-17

Devotional

These passages reveal that the living God and Creator of all desires a relationship with His creation.

Our sins against God creates division between us, but God made a way to reconcile and restore our relationship with Him.

God’s invitation remains: turn from the things that destroy us (i.e., the sin that so easily trips us up and weighs us down) and return to Him.

His invitation is not to be taken for granted.

With the help of the Holy Spirit and the Word He authored, we are encouraged daily to walk humbly before God as children set free from the slavery of sin, looking to Jesus, “the founder and perfecter of our faith” (Heb. 12:2).

Our promise-keeping Father is patient, ready to forgive, full of grace, and abounding in steadfast love.

Wholehearted repentance is the right response to the riches of God’s kindness and forbearance.

Men of God

The Lord Most High has proven He is fully committed to us.

In His kindness, He is patient with us, ready and willing to lead us from temptation and deliver us from evil.

Consider the generation that wandered in the wilderness for 40 years. They acted arrogantly, persisted in stubbornness, and did not obey the Lord’s commands.

Nevertheless, God remained faithful.

How will we respond to our God’s compassion?

By the power of the Holy Spirit within us, we can turn toward Jesus and walk humbly with our gracious Good Shepherd today.

We can live this day with genuine humility and gratitude before our Lord who loves us.

Our thanksgiving and praise to God is not limited to a particular place or time; it should pour out from our hearts into every facet of our lives.

Application

Now is the time to turn to the Lord. God’s Word is true: He is long-suffering, ready to forgive, full of grace and mercy, and abounding in loyal love. Ask God to search your heart and highlight any areas of sin or seemingly insignificant compromise. Let the Lord’s kindness lead you to repentance—be restored to right relationship with God.

Remember Jesus’ sacrifice to cleanse us from sin and trust in God’s promise to forgive you. As God has not withheld the gift of forgiveness from you, forgive those who have sinned against you. As God has been patient with you, be patient with others. Let your response be more than words alone, but a consistent, Spirit-led lifestyle of gratitude. Let your faith-in-action be a living testimony of God's goodness to those around you.

Prayer

Merciful Father,

I praise You for Your patience towards me through the years.

Your Word is true. You are steadfast in Your love and readiness to forgive.

Though I have disobeyed, You have remained faithful to me. Thank You for Your kindness that leads me to repentance.

With the help of Your Spirit, may I obey Your life-giving words and walk in the light of Your love, forsaking temptation and abounding in praise.

You alone are worthy of all glory and gratitude, Lord.

May my life be a living testimony of Your goodness, both in my words and actions.

In Jesus' name, I pray. Amen.

Divine Dialogue

Pause, Listen, Record, and Respond

John 10:1-18

Klein, Tanner. "Day 25: God's Patience Prompts Repentance." Thank You, Father: 30 Days of Gratitude, Prayer, & Praise, KLEINHAUS Books, 2024, pp. 205-211.

*Thank You, Father: 30 Days of Gratitude, Prayer, & Praise - Men’s Devotional is available on Amazon: Ebook, $7.99 (or $0.00 for Kindle Unlimited) or Paperback, $13.99.* If you’ve been blessed by this devotional, you can leave a review on Amazon—that would bless me.

🇫🇷 La traduction française

Jour 25 : La Patience de Dieu Pousse au Repentir

« Le Seigneur ne tarde pas dans l’accomplissement de la promesse, comme quelques-uns le pensent ; mais il use de patience envers vous, ne voulant pas qu’aucun périsse, mais voulant que tous arrivent à la repentance. »2 Pierre 3:9

« Méprises-tu les richesses de sa bonté, de sa patience et de sa longanimité, ne reconnaissant pas que la bonté de Dieu te pousse à la repentance ? »Romains 2:4

« Mais eux et nos pères furent arrogants, ils raidirent leur cou et n’écoutèrent pas tes commandements… Mais toi, tu es un Dieu prêt à pardonner, compatissant et miséricordieux, lent à la colère et riche en bienveillance, et tu ne les abandonnas pas. »Néhémie 9:16-17

Méditation

Ces passages révèlent que le Dieu vivant, Créateur de toutes choses, désire entretenir une relation avec Sa création.

Nos péchés contre Dieu créent une séparation entre Lui et nous, mais Il a ouvert un chemin pour nous réconcilier et restaurer cette relation avec Lui.

Son invitation reste la même : détournez-vous des choses qui nous détruisent (le péché qui nous entrave et nous alourdit) et revenez à Lui.

Cette invitation ne doit pas être prise à la légère.

Avec l’aide du Saint-Esprit et de la Parole qu’Il a inspirée, nous sommes encouragés chaque jour à marcher humblement devant Dieu, comme des enfants libérés de l’esclavage du péché, les yeux fixés sur Jésus, « l’initiateur de la foi et celui qui la mène à la perfection » (Hébreux 12:2).

Notre Père fidèle tient Ses promesses : Il est patient, prêt à pardonner, plein de grâce et débordant d’amour fidèle.

Une repentance sincère est la seule réponse juste à la richesse de Sa bonté et de Sa patience.

Pour Les Hommes de Dieu

Le Seigneur DIEU Très-Haut a prouvé qu’Il est pleinement engagé envers nous.

Dans Sa bonté, Il est patient avec nous, prêt à nous conduire loin de la tentation et à nous délivrer du mal.

Souvenez-vous de cette génération qui a erré dans le désert pendant 40 ans. Ils ont été arrogants, obstinés, et n’ont pas obéi aux commandements du Seigneur.

Et pourtant, Dieu est resté fidèle.

Comment répondrons-nous à la compassion de notre Dieu ?

Par la puissance du Saint-Esprit qui habite en nous, nous pouvons aujourd’hui nous tourner vers Jésus et marcher humblement avec notre Bon Berger plein de grâce.

Nous pouvons vivre ce jour avec humilité sincère et reconnaissance envers notre Seigneur qui nous aime.

Notre louange et notre gratitude envers Dieu ne se limitent pas à un lieu ou à un moment précis ; elles doivent jaillir de nos cœurs et imprégner chaque domaine de notre vie.

Application

C’est maintenant le moment de se tourner vers le Seigneur. La Parole de Dieu est vraie : Il est patient, prêt à pardonner, rempli de grâce et de miséricorde, et riche en amour fidèle.

Demandez à Dieu de sonder votre cœur et de mettre en lumière toute zone de péché ou de compromis, même apparemment insignifiante.

Laissez Sa bonté vous conduire à la repentance — soyez réconcilié avec Lui.

Souvenez-vous du sacrifice de Jésus pour nous purifier de tout péché, et ayez confiance dans la promesse de Dieu de vous pardonner.

Comme Dieu ne vous a pas refusé le pardon, pardonnez à ceux qui ont péché contre vous.

Comme Dieu a été patient avec vous, soyez patients avec les autres.

Que votre réponse ne se limite pas à des paroles, mais qu’elle soit un mode de vie constant, conduit par l’Esprit, rempli de gratitude.

Que votre foi en action devienne un témoignage vivant de la bonté de Dieu auprès de ceux qui vous entourent.

Prière

Père miséricordieux,

Je Te loue pour Ta patience envers moi à travers les années.

Ta Parole est vraie. Tu es fidèle dans Ton amour et toujours prêt à pardonner.

Bien que j’aie désobéi, Tu es resté fidèle envers moi. Merci pour Ta bonté qui me conduit à la repentance.

Avec l’aide de Ton Esprit, que j’obéisse à Tes paroles qui donnent la vie, que je marche dans la lumière de Ton amour, en renonçant à la tentation et en débordant de louange.

Toi seul es digne de toute gloire et de toute reconnaissance, Seigneur.

Que ma vie soit un témoignage vivant de Ta bonté, dans mes paroles comme dans mes actions.

Au nom de Jésus, je prie. Amen.

Dialogue Divin

Pause, Écoute, Note et Réponds

Jean 10:1-18

🇫🇷 La traduction française de:

Klein, Tanner. "Day 25: God's Patience Prompts Repentance." Thank You, Father: 30 Days of Gratitude, Prayer, & Praise, KLEINHAUS Books, 2024, pp. 205-211.

*Thank You, Father: 30 Days of Gratitude, Prayer, & Praise - Men’s Devotional est disponible sur Amazon : Ebook, 7,99 $ (ou 0,00 $ pour Kindle Unlimited) ou Broché, 13,99 $.* Si cette dévotion vous a été bénéfique, vous pouvez laisser un avis sur Amazon — cela me bénirait.

*La version biblique utilisée : Colombe (COL)

GOD IS INFINITE

What does this mean?

We live in a world of limits. Time runs out. Energy fades. Wisdom falls short. But not so with our God. He is infinite—without limit, without measure, without end. His power, His love, His presence, His understanding—all boundless. When we truly behold the infinite nature of God, our fears shrink, worship follows, and our faith deepens.

Before we continue, let’s pause and consider who we are approaching right now. We are about to behold the LORD God Almighty—the one true, living God. We are about to engage with the Author of Life as we engage with His living and active Word. We come before the eternal One who exists beyond time and space, who cannot be measured, who has no beginning and no end. The Lord is boundless in power, limitless in wisdom, and endless in love. He upholds the universe by the word of His power—and yet, He draws near to us now through His Spirit.

Hallelujah!

I invite you to pause and take just 30 seconds to acknowledge our Infinite God…to quiet your heart before the Uncontainable One who invites you into His presence.

Are you ready? Let’s embrace this mystery with joy. Let’s marvel before the God who has no limits. Can you sense childlike wonder rising up in you? I hope so! Ok, now let’s dive in—with awe and expectancy in faith!

God’s Word Reveals HE IS INFINITE

“Great is our Lord, and abundant in power;

his understanding is beyond measure.”

- Psalm 147:5

“Have you not known? Have you not heard?

The LORD is the everlasting God,

the Creator of the ends of the earth.

He does not faint or grow weary;

his understanding is unsearchable.”

- Isaiah 40:28

“Oh, the depth of the riches and wisdom and knowledge of God! How unsearchable are his judgments and how inscrutable his ways!

“For who has known the mind of the Lord,

or who has been his counselor?”

“Or who has given a gift to him

that he might be repaid?”

For from him and through him and to him are all things. To him be glory forever. Amen.

- Romans 11:33-36

1. Behold: Who God Is

God is infinite.

He is immeasurable in power, wisdom, and presence. He has no beginning and no end. He is uncreated, unlimited, and unfathomable. His greatness is beyond our best understanding, and yet—He makes Himself known to us.

In every way we are finite, God is infinite. Where our strength runs dry, His strength becomes more evident in our lives. Where our knowledge fails, His knowledge remains perfect and complete. He exists beyond time and space, and yet He enters into time to make Himself known to us, to love us, save us, and redeem us. God Most High stoops low, not because He needs to, but because He delights to dwell with those who seek Him.

Isaiah 40 continues in verses 29-31:

“He gives power to the faint,

and to him who has no might he increases strength.

Even youths shall faint and be weary,

and young men shall fall exhausted;

but they who wait for the LORD shall renew their strength;

they shall mount up with wings like eagles;

they shall run and not be weary;

they shall walk and not faint.”

This is the God we seek and worship—the almighty, exalted One who graciously draws near to us in our weakness, and give us strength to overcome.

2. Believe: Who You Are in Christ

Because God is infinite and we’re not, we will never come to the end of Him. There is always more to experience, more to understand, more opportunities to trust, more to behold. We may be small and limited in light of our limitless God, yet we are perfectly loved by the King of glory. In Him, we are safe, secure, and sustained.

Our value is not determined by how much we can do, it’s decided by our Father in heaven who already gave His Son to save and redeem us from sin and transform us into new creations in Christ. When we feel overwhelmed or inadequate, we can rest in His sufficiency. We are finite, set apart vessels who get to be filled with the presence of the One whose greatness cannot be measured. What an awesome privilege it is to belong to the Lord, fully known and loved by our Father in heaven.

3. Become: Like Jesus, Trusting the Father

It’s time to respond by faith with a declaration that you can say aloud with me, a call to trust, an action step, and a reminder of God’s promise.

A Declaration (You can say this with me by faith):

I serve an infinite God who never runs out of wisdom, strength, or love.

A Call to Trust :

When you reach the end of yourself, you can trust the limitless grace and power of God.

An Action Step:

Pause today and start your prayer by giving thanks to God. Meditate on the truth that God is infinite—and thank Him for how He meets you in your limitations. Allow the Spirit of God to lovingly lead you from giving thanks to giving God praise.

A Reminder of God’s Promise:

As God spoke to Paul, so we can receive His words in 2 Corinthians 12:9,

“My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.”

Let’s Pray

Everlasting Father,

Thank You for Your unending love, grace, and intentionality.

Thank You for valuing my life.

You’ve proven Your commitment to us by sending Your Son, Jesus. There is no question about Your proven love and care for us. Hallelujah!

I praise You, Infinite Lord, good and great God.

You are without limit or fault, without end, and without equal.

You are greater than I can possibly comprehend, and yet You continue to make Yourself known to me.

Your love satisfies.

Your peace satisfies my soul.

In Your presence, there is fullness of joy!

Forgive me for the times I have acted like You are limited or unwilling to act, or as though You are limited by my finite understanding or strength.

Remind me that Your wisdom has no end, Your love never fails, and Your strength is unshakable.

Thank You for Your cleansing forgiveness.

In Your great grace, I pray that You fill me with awe today.

Teach me to rest in Your sufficiency, worship You in childlike wonder in spirit and in truth, and live in light of Your greatness.

In Jesus’ name I pray,

Amen.

I pray that our Infinite God blesses you through this post on the goodness of His limitlessness.

This is the third post in our new series called WHO IS GOD? A Series on Rediscovering the One True, Living God—and Who You Are Because of Him.

As a reminder, this is the heart of this series:

EMBRACING WHO GOD IS helps us ALIGN OUR IDENTITY IN CHRIST which leads to EXPERIENCING MORE ABUNDANT LIFE WITH GOD.

This may seem simple, but we need the help of God’s Spirit, amen?

This is a journey of growing to trust in God’s character and nature, allowing Him to shape our identity in Christ and responding by faith.

If you haven’t already, check out our latest podcast on God’s holiness or the series introduction before it. Both are linked here.

Are you thinking what I’m thinking? Yes, now is a great time to share this post with a friend.

For all the podcast listeners, feel free to share these LIFE ON MISSION posts via Apple Podcasts and Spotify.

I’m really excited to see how our beautiful Savior encourages and builds up His Bride through these posts. May God bless you to EMBRACE WHO GOD IS, ALIGN YOUR IDENTITY IN HIM, and EXPERIENCE MORE ABUNDANT LIFE WITH HIM.

As it says in 1 Timothy 1:17,

“To the King of the ages, immortal, invisible, the only God, be honor and glory forever and ever. Amen.”

🇫🇷 La traduction française

DIEU INFINI – QUI EST DIEU ?Une série pour redécouvrir le seul vrai Dieu vivant — et qui tu es à cause de Lui

Contempler les attributs, le caractère et la nature de Dieu

DIEU EST INFINI

Qu’est-ce que cela signifie ?Nous vivons dans un monde de limites. Le temps s’épuise. L’énergie diminue. La sagesse échoue. Mais ce n’est pas le cas de notre Dieu. Il est infini – sans limite, sans mesure, sans fin. Sa puissance, son amour, sa présence, sa compréhension – tout est sans bornes. Lorsque nous contemplons véritablement la nature infinie de Dieu, nos peurs diminuent, l’adoration s’élève, et notre foi s’approfondit.

Avant de continuer, prenons un instant pour considérer Celui devant qui nous nous approchons. Nous allons contempler le SEIGNEUR, Dieu Tout-Puissant – le seul vrai Dieu vivant. Nous allons entrer en relation avec l’Auteur de la Vie, par Sa Parole vivante et agissante. Nous nous approchons de l’Éternel, Celui qui existe au-delà du temps et de l’espace, Celui qu’on ne peut mesurer, qui n’a ni commencement ni fin. Le Seigneur est sans limite dans Sa puissance, Sa sagesse, et Son amour. Il soutient l’univers par la parole de Sa puissance – et pourtant, Il s’approche de nous maintenant par Son Esprit.

Alléluia !

Je vous invite à faire une pause de 30 secondes pour reconnaître notre Dieu Infini… pour calmer votre cœur devant Celui qu’on ne peut contenir, et qui vous invite dans Sa présence.

Prêt ? Embrassons ce mystère avec joie. Émerveillons-nous devant le Dieu sans limites. Sentez-vous cette crainte mêlée d’émerveillement monter en vous ? J’espère que oui ! Allons-y avec une sainte attente !

La Parole de Dieu révèle : IL EST INFINI

« Grand est notre Seigneur, puissant par sa force,Son intelligence n’a pas de limite. »– Psaume 147.5

« Ne le sais-tu pas ? Ne l’as-tu pas appris ?L’Éternel est le Dieu d’éternité,Le Créateur des extrémités de la terre.Il ne se fatigue point, Il ne se lasse point ;On ne peut sonder son intelligence. »– Ésaïe 40.28

« Ô profondeur de la richesse, de la sagesse et de la science de Dieu !Que Ses jugements sont insondables, et Ses voies incompréhensibles !

Qui a connu la pensée du Seigneur,ou qui a été Son conseiller ?

Qui Lui a donné le premier,pour qu’Il ait à recevoir en retour ?

C’est de Lui, par Lui, et pour Lui que sont toutes choses.À Lui la gloire dans tous les siècles ! Amen. »– Romains 11.33–36

1. Contempler : Qui est Dieu

Dieu est infini.Il est sans mesure dans Sa puissance, Sa sagesse, et Sa présence. Il n’a ni commencement ni fin. Il est incréé, illimité, insondable. Sa grandeur dépasse notre compréhension – et pourtant, Il se fait connaître à nous.

Dans tous les domaines où nous sommes finis, Dieu est infini. Là où nos forces s’épuisent, les siennes se manifestent avec éclat. Là où notre connaissance échoue, la sienne demeure parfaite et complète. Il existe au-delà du temps et de l’espace, et pourtant Il entre dans le temps pour se révéler, nous aimer, nous sauver, nous racheter. Le Très-Haut s’abaisse – non par besoin, mais par joie de demeurer avec ceux qui Le cherchent.

Ésaïe 40 continue aux versets 29 à 31 :

« Il donne de la force à celui qui est fatigué,Et Il augmente la vigueur de celui qui tombe en défaillance.

Les adolescents se fatiguent et se lassent,Et les jeunes hommes chancellent ;

Mais ceux qui se confient en l’Éternel renouvellent leur force.Ils prennent le vol comme les aigles ;Ils courent, et ne se lassent point,Ils marchent, et ne se fatiguent point. »

C’est ce Dieu que nous adorons – l’Infini, l’Élevé, qui choisit de s’approcher de nous.

2. Croire : Qui Tu es en Christ

Parce que Dieu est infini et que nous ne le sommes pas, nous ne parviendrons jamais au bout de Lui. Il y a toujours plus à expérimenter, à comprendre, à contempler, à croire. Bien que nous soyons petits et limités, nous sommes parfaitement aimés du Roi de gloire. En Lui, nous sommes en sécurité, soutenus, et pleinement connus.

Notre valeur ne dépend pas de ce que nous faisons, mais de notre Père céleste, qui a donné Son Fils pour nous sauver du péché et faire de nous des nouvelles créations en Christ. Quand nous sommes dépassés ou insuffisants, nous pouvons nous reposer dans Sa suffisance. Nous sommes des vases finis, appelés à être remplis par la présence de Celui dont la grandeur est infinie. Quel privilège d’appartenir au Seigneur !

3. Deviens : Comme Jésus, fais confiance au Père

Il est temps de répondre par une déclaration à prononcer à voix haute, un appel à la confiance, une action concrète, et une promesse de Dieu.

Une déclaration (à proclamer par la foi) :Je sers un Dieu infini qui ne manque jamais de sagesse, de force, ni d’amour.

Un appel à la confiance :Quand j’arrive au bout de moi-même, je peux faire confiance à la grâce et à la puissance sans limites de Dieu.

Une action :Prenez un moment aujourd’hui pour commencer votre prière par des remerciements à Dieu. Méditez sur cette vérité : Dieu est infini. Remerciez-Le pour la manière dont Il vous rencontre dans vos limites. Laissez Son Esprit vous conduire de l’action de grâce à l’adoration.

Un rappel de la promesse de Dieu :Comme Dieu l’a dit à Paul, nous pouvons recevoir cette parole en 2 Corinthiens 12.9 :

« Ma grâce te suffit, car ma puissance s’accomplit dans la faiblesse. »

Prions

Père Éternel,Merci pour Ton amour infini, Ta grâce inépuisable, et Ton attention fidèle.Merci de m’avoir donné de la valeur.Tu as prouvé Ton engagement envers nous en envoyant Ton Fils, Jésus. Il n’y a aucun doute sur Ton amour pour nous. Alléluia !

Je Te loue, Seigneur Infini, bon et grand Dieu.Tu es sans limite, sans faute, sans fin, et sans égal.Tu es plus grand que tout ce que je peux comprendre, et pourtant Tu continues à Te révéler.

Ton amour satisfait.Ta paix satisfait.En Ta présence, il y a une plénitude de joie !

Pardonne-moi pour les moments où j’ai agi comme si Tu étais limité, ou réticent à agir – ou comme si Tu étais restreint par mon intelligence ou mes forces limitées.

Rappelle-moi que Ta sagesse n’a pas de fin, que Ton amour ne faillit jamais, et que Ta force est inébranlable.

Merci pour Ton pardon purificateur.Par Ta grâce immense, remplis-moi aujourd’hui d’émerveillement.Apprends-moi à me reposer dans Ta suffisance, à T’adorer avec un cœur d’enfant, en esprit et en vérité, et à vivre dans la lumière de Ta grandeur.

Au nom de Jésus,Amen.

Je prie que notre Dieu Infini vous bénisse à travers ce message sur la bonté de Son infinité.

C’est le troisième article de notre série QUI EST DIEU ? Une série pour redécouvrir le seul vrai Dieu vivant – et découvrir qui vous êtes à cause de Lui.

Rappel du cœur de cette série :EMBRASSER QUI EST DIEU nous aide à ALIGNER NOTRE IDENTITÉ EN CHRIST, ce qui conduit à EXPÉRIMENTER UNE VIE PLUS ABONDANTE AVEC DIEU.Cela peut sembler simple, mais nous avons besoin de l’aide de l’Esprit de Dieu, amen ?C’est un chemin de foi, pour grandir dans la confiance en Dieu, pour qu’Il façonne notre identité en Christ.

Si vous ne l’avez pas encore fait, écoutez notre dernier podcast sur la sainteté de Dieu, ou l’introduction de la série (liens ici).

C’est le moment parfait pour partager ce message avec un ami !

Et pour tous les auditeurs du podcast, vous pouvez partager ces articles VIVRE EN MISSION via Apple Podcasts ou Spotify.

Je suis vraiment enthousiaste de voir comment notre merveilleux Sauveur va encourager et édifier Son Église à travers ces messages.Que Dieu vous bénisse pour que vous PUISSIEZ EMBRASSER QUI IL EST, ALIGNER VOTRE IDENTITÉ EN LUI, et EXPÉRIMENTER UNE VIE PLUS ABONDANTE AVEC LUI.

Comme il est écrit dans 1 Timothée 1.17 :

« Au roi des siècles, immortel, invisible, seul Dieu, soient honneur et gloire aux siècles des siècles ! Amen. »

Let’s start with the heart of this series:

EMBRACING WHO GOD IS helps us ALIGN OUR IDENTITY IN CHRIST which leads to EXPERIENCING MORE ABUNDANT LIFE WITH GOD.

This may seem simple, but we need the help of God’s Spirit, amen?

This is a journey of growing to trust in God’s character and nature, allowing Him to shape our identity in Christ and responding by faith.

Before we continue, let’s take a moment to pause and consider who it is we’re approaching right now. We’re about to behold the LORD God Almighty—the one true, living God. The glorious One who is utterly and completely beyond and set apart, the Creator of all that exists and the Giver of Life. The One who knows all, sees all, and sustains all. The Ever-present King of glory is with us now through His Holy Spirit. Hallelujah! I encourage you to pause and take just 30 seconds to acknowledge our Holy God…

Ok, are you ready? Let’s embrace holiness with joy. Let’s marvel before God. Can you feel the anticipation building? Ok, now let’s jump in with awe and wonder!

GOD IS HOLY

What does Holy mean?

Let’s start with some definitions.

The Old Testament Hebrew word, קָדוֹשׁ, qadosh, is defined as holy, sacred, set apart. There are three contexts in which this word was used to refer to something as ceremonially or morally sacred, or to someone, i.e. God, or to something utterly distinct, like an angel or a place, like the temple.

The New Testament Greek word, ἅγιος, hagios, is also defined as holy, sacred, set apart. Similarly, there are four contexts in which this word was used to refer to something or someone as sacred, physically pure, morally blameless, or religiously or ceremonially consecrated.

God’s Word Reveals HE IS HOLY

“Holy, holy, holy is the Lord of hosts; the whole earth is full of his glory!” - Isaiah 6:3

“There is none holy like the LORD: for there is none besides you; there is no rock like our God.” - 1 Samuel 2:2

“13 Therefore, preparing your minds for action, and being sober-minded, set your hope fully on the grace that will be brought to you at the revelation of Jesus Christ. 14 As obedient children, do not be conformed to the passions of your former ignorance, 15 but as he who called you is holy, you also be holy in all your conduct, 16 since it is written, ‘You shall be holy, for I am holy.’” - 1 Peter 1:13–16

1. Behold: Who God Is

God is holy.

He is utterly set apart, radiant in majesty, perfect in purity, completely without fault or flaw. Holiness isn’t just one attribute of God—it is the sum of all His attributes in perfection. He is holy in His steadfast love, holy in His justice, holy in His mercy, holy in His wrath, holy in His faithfulness.

In Isaiah 6, the seraphim don’t call out “loving, loving, loving” or “powerful, powerful, powerful”—though He is without doubt God Most Loving and God Most Powerful. Instead, they cry out “Holy, holy, holy.” This is the only attribute of God in the Bible that’s declared three times in a row. It emphasizes God’s matchless purity and glory.

To encounter the holiness of God is to be undone, like Isaiah, who cried,

“Woe is me! For I am lost; for I am a man of unclean lips, and I dwell in the midst of a people of unclean lips; for my eyes have seen the King, the Lord of hosts!” - Isaiah 6:5

Experiencing God’s holiness reveals our smallness and sinfulness in contrast to His blazing perfection. And yet, it’s also an invitation into worship, into being made new, into reflecting His holiness in our lives.

To Isaiah’s surprise, in verses 6-7 we find that one of the seraphim flew to him, with a burning coal that he had taken with tongs from the altar in his hand, and he touched Isaiah’s mouth and said:

“Behold, this has touched your lips; your guilt is taken away, and your sin atoned for.”

God’s holiness isn’t distant or cold. It’s beautiful. It’s good. It’s the blazing center of His being—and when we draw near to the Holy One through Christ, we don’t find condemnation. We find cleansing, like Isaiah. We find communion with God.

God’s holiness isn’t just something to respect intellectually—it’s something to behold, to bow before, and to reflect as we abide in Him.

2. Believe: Who You Are in Christ

Because God is holy, and you are in Christ if you have trusted in Jesus as your Savior and Lord, you are no longer defined by sin—you are made holy, set apart, purified, and called into His glorious light.

Your identity is not in your failures or your past, but in the finished work of the Holy One, Jesus Christ, who now dwells in you by His Spirit.

You are a temple of the Holy Spirit. You are called to live in a holy way—not by endless striving, but by surrendering to the Lord and walking by faith with Him.

You were made to walk in the light as He is in the light, clothed in Christ’s righteousness, not your own.

3. Become: Like Jesus, Holy and Set Apart

It’s time to respond with a declaration that you can say aloud with me, a call to trust, an action step, and a reminder of God’s promise.

A Declaration (You can say this with me by faith):I believe God is holy—majestic, perfect, set apart. And in Christ, I have been made holy. I choose to live as one set apart for His purposes, not by my own strength, but by the power of His Spirit at work in me.

A Call to Trust :Let go of shame and condemnation. You are not too far gone. Come into the presence of the Holy One—not to hide, but to be made whole and live as one who is set apart by God in His steadfast love for you—set apart for His glory.

An Action Step:Spend a few quiet moments today in reverent prayer and praise to God. Confess anything that stands between you and God, and receive His cleansing forgiveness and grace.

A Reminder of God’s Promise:

“But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus his Son cleanses us from all sin.” - 1 John 1:7

Let’s Pray

Holy, holy, holy are You, Lord God Almighty.

There is none like You—pure, perfect, radiant in majesty.

I bow before You in reverence and awe, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace, Mighty God, Wonderful Counselor.

Forgive me for any way I’ve treated Your holiness lightly or made You seem small, in my words, actions, or internal attitudes.

Cleanse me, Lord.

Purify my heart.

Make me holy as You are holy—not by my efforts, but through Christ in me.

Thank You for setting me apart for Your glory.

Thank You for Your Spirit of Truth living in me.

I welcome Your sanctification. Shape me more and more into the likeness of Jesus.

Let my life reflect the beauty of Your holiness in how I love, speak, and walk with You daily.

It’s my honor to worship and celebrate You, Holy God—now and forever.

You are my exceedingly great Reward and Treasure.

In Jesus’ holy name I pray,

Amen. Thank you, God!

I pray that our Holy God blesses you through this post on the goodness of His holiness.

This is the second post in our new series called WHO IS GOD? A Series on Rediscovering the One True, Living God—and Who You Are Because of Him.

We posted the series introduction just two days ago, linked here:

You can share this post with friends by clicking the share button below!

You can share the LIFE ON MISSION publication link by clicking that button below!

For all the podcast listeners, feel free to share these LIFE ON MISSION posts via Apple Podcasts and Spotify.

I’m really excited to see how our beautiful Savior encourages and builds up His Bride through these posts. May God bless you to EMBRACE WHO GOD IS, ALIGN YOUR IDENTITY IN HIM, and EXPERIENCE MORE ABUNDANT LIFE WITH HIM.

🇫🇷 La traduction française

DIEU EST SAINT – QUI EST DIEU ? Une série pour redécouvrir le seul vrai Dieu vivant — et qui tu es à cause de Lui

Contempler les attributs, le caractère et la nature de Dieu

Commençons avec le cœur de cette série :

ACCUEILLIR QUI EST DIEU nous aide à ALIGNER NOTRE IDENTITÉ EN CHRIST, ce qui conduit à EXPÉRIMENTER UNE VIE PLUS ABONDANTE AVEC DIEU.

Cela peut paraître simple, mais nous avons besoin de l’aide de l’Esprit de Dieu, amen ?

C’est un chemin de croissance dans la confiance en le caractère et la nature de Dieu, en Le laissant façonner notre identité en Christ et en y répondant par la foi.

Avant d’aller plus loin, prenons un moment pour nous arrêter et considérer QUI nous approchons en ce moment. Nous sommes sur le point de contempler le SEIGNEUR Dieu Tout-Puissant — le seul vrai Dieu vivant. Le Glorieux, Celui qui est totalement au-delà et mis à part, le Créateur de tout ce qui existe et le Donneur de Vie. Celui qui sait tout, voit tout et soutient tout. Le Roi de gloire toujours présent est avec nous maintenant par Son Saint-Esprit. Alléluia ! Je t’encourage à faire une pause de 30 secondes pour reconnaître notre Dieu Saint…

D’accord, tu es prêt ? Accueillons la sainteté avec joie. Émerveillons-nous devant Dieu. Peux-tu sentir l’anticipation monter ? Très bien, sautons à pieds joints avec crainte et émerveillement !

DIEU EST SAINT

Que signifie “Saint” ?

Commençons par quelques définitions.

Le mot hébreu de l’Ancien Testament, qadosh (קָדוֹשׁ), signifie : saint, sacré, mis à part. Ce mot était utilisé dans trois contextes : pour désigner quelque chose de cérémoniellement ou moralement sacré, une personne (Dieu), ou quelque chose d’absolument distinct, comme un ange ou un lieu (le temple).

Le mot grec du Nouveau Testament, hagios (ἅγιος), signifie également : saint, sacré, mis à part. Il est utilisé dans quatre contextes pour désigner quelque chose ou quelqu’un comme sacré, physiquement pur, moralement irréprochable ou religieusement consacré.

La Parole de Dieu révèle qu’IL EST SAINT

« Saint, saint, saint est l’Éternel des armées ! Toute la terre est pleine de Sa gloire ! » - Ésaïe 6:3

« Nul n’est saint comme l’Éternel ; il n’y a point d’autre que Toi, il n’y a point de rocher comme notre Dieu. » - 1 Samuel 2:2

« 13 C’est pourquoi, ceignez les reins de votre entendement, soyez sobres, et ayez une entière espérance dans la grâce qui vous sera apportée lorsque Jésus-Christ apparaîtra. 14 Comme des enfants obéissants, ne vous conformez pas aux convoitises que vous aviez autrefois, dans votre ignorance. 15 Mais, puisque Celui qui vous a appelés est saint, vous aussi soyez saints dans toute votre conduite, 16 selon qu’il est écrit : Vous serez saints, car Je suis saint. » - 1 Pierre 1:13–16

1. Contemple : Qui est Dieu

Dieu est saint.

Il est entièrement mis à part, resplendissant de majesté, parfait dans la pureté, totalement sans défaut ni tache. La sainteté n’est pas simplement un attribut parmi d’autres — c’est la somme de tous Ses attributs en perfection. Il est saint dans Son amour fidèle, saint dans Sa justice, saint dans Sa miséricorde, saint dans Sa colère, saint dans Sa fidélité.

Dans Ésaïe 6, les séraphins ne proclament pas « aimant, aimant, aimant » ni « puissant, puissant, puissant » — même s’IL est assurément le Dieu Très Aimant et Tout-Puissant. Ils crient « Saint, saint, saint ». C’est le seul attribut de Dieu répété trois fois dans la Bible. Cela souligne la pureté et la gloire incomparables de Dieu.

Rencontrer la sainteté de Dieu, c’est être bouleversé, comme Ésaïe, qui s’écria :

« Malheur à moi ! Je suis perdu, car je suis un homme aux lèvres impures, j’habite au milieu d’un peuple aux lèvres impures, et mes yeux ont vu le Roi, l’Éternel des armées. » - Ésaïe 6:5

Faire l’expérience de la sainteté de Dieu révèle notre petitesse et notre péché face à Sa perfection brûlante. Et pourtant, c’est aussi une invitation à l’adoration, à être renouvelé, à refléter Sa sainteté dans nos vies.

À la surprise d’Ésaïe, aux versets 6-7, un des séraphins s’approche avec une braise ardente, prise sur l’autel, et touche ses lèvres en disant :

« Ceci a touché tes lèvres ; ta faute est enlevée, et ton péché est expié. »

La sainteté de Dieu n’est ni distante ni froide. Elle est belle. Elle est bonne. Elle est le centre flamboyant de Son être — et lorsque nous nous approchons du Saint par Christ, nous ne trouvons pas la condamnation. Nous trouvons la purification, comme Ésaïe. Nous trouvons la communion avec Dieu.

La sainteté de Dieu n’est pas seulement à respecter intellectuellement — elle est à contempler, devant laquelle nous nous prosternons, et que nous sommes appelés à refléter alors que nous demeurons en Lui.

2. Crois : Qui tu es en Christ

Parce que Dieu est saint, et que tu es en Christ si tu as mis ta foi en Jésus comme Sauveur et Seigneur, tu n’es plus défini par le péché — tu es rendu saint, mis à part, purifié, et appelé dans Sa lumière glorieuse.

Ton identité n’est pas dans tes échecs ou ton passé, mais dans l’œuvre accomplie du Saint, Jésus-Christ, qui habite maintenant en toi par Son Esprit.

Tu es un temple du Saint-Esprit. Tu es appelé à vivre d’une manière sainte — non pas par un effort incessant, mais en te soumettant au Seigneur et en marchant par la foi avec Lui.

Tu es fait pour marcher dans la lumière comme IL est dans la lumière, revêtu de la justice de Christ, non de la tienne.

3. Deviens : Comme Jésus, saint et mis à part

Il est temps de répondre par une déclaration à dire à haute voix, un appel à faire confiance, une action concrète, et un rappel de la promesse de Dieu.

Une déclaration (à dire par la foi) :Je crois que Dieu est saint — majestueux, parfait, mis à part. Et en Christ, j’ai été rendu saint. Je choisis de vivre comme quelqu’un mis à part pour Ses desseins, non par ma propre force, mais par la puissance de Son Esprit à l’œuvre en moi.

Un appel à faire confiance :Lâche la honte et la condamnation. Tu n’es pas trop loin. Entre dans la présence du Saint — non pour te cacher, mais pour être restauré et vivre comme quelqu’un mis à part par Dieu dans Son amour fidèle pour toi — mis à part pour Sa gloire.

Une action :Prends quelques instants aujourd’hui pour prier et louer Dieu avec révérence. Confesse tout ce qui fait obstacle entre toi et Dieu, et reçois Son pardon purificateur et Sa grâce.

Un rappel de la promesse de Dieu :

« Mais si nous marchons dans la lumière, comme IL est Lui-même dans la lumière, nous sommes en communion les uns avec les autres, et le sang de Jésus Son Fils nous purifie de tout péché. » — 1 Jean 1:7

Prions

Saint, saint, saint es-Tu, Seigneur Dieu Tout-Puissant.Nul n’est comme Toi — pur, parfait, resplendissant de majesté.Je m’incline devant Toi avec révérence et crainte, Père Éternel, Prince de Paix, Dieu Puissant, Merveilleux Conseiller.

Pardonne-moi pour toutes les fois où j’ai traité Ta sainteté à la légère ou Te suis apparu petit par mes paroles, mes actions ou mes pensées.Purifie-moi, Seigneur.Purifie mon cœur.Rends-moi saint comme Tu es saint — non par mes efforts, mais par Christ en moi.

Merci de m’avoir mis à part pour Ta gloire.Merci pour Ton Esprit de Vérité qui vit en moi.Je T’accueille, Esprit de sanctification. Façonne-moi de plus en plus à l’image de Jésus.Que ma vie reflète la beauté de Ta sainteté dans la manière dont j’aime, parle, et marche avec Toi chaque jour.

C’est un honneur de T’adorer et Te célébrer, Dieu Saint — maintenant et pour toujours.Tu es ma Récompense infiniment précieuse, mon Trésor suprême.

Au nom saint de Jésus je prie,Amen. Merci, mon Dieu !

Je prie que notre Dieu Saint te bénisse à travers ce message sur la bonté de Sa sainteté.

Ceci est le deuxième message de notre nouvelle série intitulée :QUI EST DIEU ? Une série pour redécouvrir le seul vrai Dieu vivant — et qui tu es à cause de Lui.

Nous avons publié l’introduction de la série il y a deux jours, lien ici :

Tu peux partager ce message avec des amis en cliquant sur le bouton Partager ci-dessous !

Tu peux aussi partager le lien de la publication LIFE ON MISSION en cliquant sur le bouton correspondant !

Pour les auditeurs de podcast, n’hésite pas à écouter et partager ces messages LIFE ON MISSION sur Apple Podcasts et Spotify (en anglais).

Je suis vraiment enthousiaste de voir comment notre magnifique Sauveur encourage et édifie Son Épouse à travers ces messages.Que Dieu te bénisse pour ACCUEILLIR QUI IL EST, ALIGNER TON IDENTITÉ EN LUI, et EXPÉRIMENTER UNE VIE PLUS ABONDANTE AVEC LUI.

Who is God really? What is He like?

I’m convinced that the Bible, God’s Word, is the Source of insight into who God truly is and what He’s really like.

I believe that because of who God is and what He’s done, we can trust in Him completely and build our whole lives on Christ the Cornerstone and His Word.

I am convinced that understanding who God is has everything to do with our identity, who we are.

Because our Creator is who He says He is, we are who He says we are:

Beloved, called, chosen, set apart, equipped, sent, and commissioned sons and daughters, co-laborers with God and co-heirs with Christ, ambassadors of the King, Jesus, and His Kingdom.

We don’t often live like all these things are true, but today can be the day we choose to embrace God’s truth over our ideas of what’s true, God’s eternal perspective over our own limited perspective, God’s design over our view on what’s best for us.

In this series, we will explore who God is and what He's like based on His attributes revealed in the Bible.

I know from experience that what we believe about our Creator fundamentally shapes our identity and the way we experience life.

Here’s the heart of this series:

EMBRACING WHO GOD IS helps us ALIGN OUR IDENTITY IN GOD which leads to EXPERIENCING MORE ABUNDANT LIFE WITH GOD.

Do we believe in the one, true living God of the Bible? Or, do we believe in a god made in our own image, a false god that we’re more comfortable with?

Our beliefs about who God is and what He’s like reveal whether we have placed our trust in the one, true living God or, in our own version of God, an idol.

When things get tough, when your patience is tested, when your beliefs are challenged, when stress levels rise, where do you turn?

What do you turn to? Who do you turn to?

Do we believe our ever-present God is almighty, good, and abounding in steadfast love?

Do we believe we really are who our infinite Creator says we are and live like it’s true?

Or, have we come to align our beliefs and identity with the world’s half-truths or the enemy’s deception?

In this series, we will let God shape and reinforce our true identity in Christ as beloved sons and daughters. We will get to better experientially know God Most High, the only One who is holy and loving, all-knowing and all-powerful, ever-present and unchanging, just and gracious, righteous and merciful, patient and wise, sovereign and true, light and peace, faithful and compassionate, glorious and eternal, beautiful and personal, transcendent and immanent, infinite and knowable, the Lion of the tribe of Judah and the Lamb of God, and so much more.

I am so excited to explore this with you all. I need reminders of who God is and what He’s like everyday. The more aware I am of who God is, the more I experience abundant life with Him, the more secure I am in my God-given identity. I want this for everyone, to know God, to enjoy Him as our greatest Treasure, and to make Him known.

Why This Series Matters

In a world overflowing with opinions about who God is—and who we are—this series cuts through the noise with lasting Biblical truth revealing God’s character and nature. “WHO IS GOD?” isn’t just more information about God to add to our head-knowledge; it’s an invitation to encounter and experience the living God as He reveals Himself in Scripture and in our lives today. We’re not settling for a god made in our own image or shaped by comfort and culture. We’re pursuing the holy, glorious, deeply personal God of the Bible. When we see God more rightly, we begin to see everything else—including ourselves—more clearly. I believe that understanding God’s attributes is not only foundational to a vibrant faith rooted in Christ, but also essential to walking in the freedom, joy, and power of the Holy Spirit, knowing we are God’s beloved sons and daughters. I pray that this series will inspire awe and wonder, help you anchor your identity in Christ, and call you into deeper intimacy with the One who made you, knows you, loves you, and calls you by name.

I hope you’re excited to go deeper with me. More posts are coming!

You can share this series introduction with friends by clicking the Share button below!

You can share the LIFE ON MISSION publication link by clicking that button below!

Feel free to check out and share these LIFE ON MISSION posts on Apple Podcasts and Spotify.

I’m really excited to see how our beautiful Savior encourages and builds up His Bride through these posts. May God bless you to EMBRACE WHO GOD IS, ALIGN YOUR IDENTITY IN HIM, and EXPERIENCE MORE ABUNDANT LIFE WITH HIM.

🇫🇷 La traduction française

QUI EST DIEU ? Une nouvelle série pour redécouvrir le seul vrai Dieu vivant — et qui vous êtes à cause de Lui

Qui est vraiment Dieu ? Comment est-Il ?

Je suis convaincu que la Bible, la Parole de Dieu, est la Source qui révèle qui Dieu est véritablement et quelle est Sa nature.

Je crois que, grâce à qui Dieu est et à ce qu’Il a fait, nous pouvons avoir une confiance totale en Lui et bâtir toute notre vie sur Christ, la Pierre Angulaire, et sur Sa Parole.

Je suis persuadé que comprendre qui est Dieu est intimement lié à notre identité, à qui nous sommes.

Parce que notre Créateur est Celui qu’Il dit être, nous sommes ceux qu’Il dit que nous sommes :

Bien-aimés, appelés, choisis, mis à part, équipés, envoyés et mandatés en tant que fils et filles, collaborateurs avec Dieu et cohéritiers avec Christ, ambassadeurs du Roi, Jésus, et de Son Royaume.

Nous ne vivons pas toujours comme si toutes ces choses étaient vraies, mais aujourd’hui peut être le jour où nous choisissons d’embrasser la vérité de Dieu plutôt que nos propres idées de ce qui est vrai, la perspective éternelle de Dieu plutôt que notre point de vue limité, le dessein de Dieu plutôt que notre opinion sur ce qui est le mieux pour nous.

Dans cette série, nous allons explorer qui est Dieu et comment Il est, à la lumière de Ses attributs révélés dans la Bible.

Je sais, par expérience, que ce que nous croyons au sujet de notre Créateur façonne profondément notre identité et la manière dont nous vivons notre vie.

Voici le cœur de cette série :

EMBRASSER QUI EST DIEU nous aide à ALIGNER NOTRE IDENTITÉ EN DIEU, ce qui conduit à EXPÉRIMENTER UNE VIE PLUS ABONDANTE AVEC DIEU.

Croyons-nous au seul vrai Dieu vivant de la Bible ? Ou croyons-nous en un dieu façonné à notre image, un faux dieu qui nous met plus à l’aise ?

Nos croyances au sujet de qui est Dieu et de Sa nature révèlent si nous avons placé notre confiance dans le seul vrai Dieu vivant ou dans notre propre version de Dieu — une idole.

Quand les temps sont durs, quand votre patience est mise à l’épreuve, quand vos croyances sont challengées, quand le stress monte… vers qui vous tournez-vous ?

À quoi, ou à qui, cherchez-vous refuge ?

Croyons-nous que notre Dieu toujours présent est tout-puissant, bon, et débordant d’un amour fidèle ?

Croyons-nous que nous sommes vraiment ce que notre Créateur infini dit que nous sommes — et vivons-nous comme si c’était vrai ?

Ou avons-nous aligné nos croyances et notre identité sur les demi-vérités du monde ou sur les mensonges de l’ennemi ?

Dans cette série, nous laisserons Dieu façonner et affermir notre véritable identité en Christ en tant que fils et filles bien-aimés. Nous apprendrons à mieux connaître, de manière vécue et personnelle, Dieu le Très-Haut — le seul qui soit saint et aimant, omniscient et tout-puissant, toujours présent et immuable, juste et plein de grâce, droit et miséricordieux, patient et sage, souverain et véritable, lumière et paix, fidèle et compatissant, glorieux et éternel, magnifique et proche, transcendant et immanent, infini et accessible — le Lion de la tribu de Juda et l’Agneau de Dieu… et tant d’autres merveilles encore.

Je suis tellement enthousiaste à l’idée d’explorer cela avec vous tous. J’ai moi aussi besoin de rappels quotidiens sur qui est Dieu et comment Il est. Plus je suis conscient de qui est Dieu, plus je fais l’expérience d’une vie abondante avec Lui, et plus je suis enraciné dans l’identité que Dieu m’a donnée. Je désire cela pour chacun de nous : connaître Dieu, Le savourer comme notre Trésor suprême, et Le faire connaître.

Pourquoi cette série est importante

Dans un monde saturé d’opinions sur qui est Dieu — et sur qui nous sommes — cette série tranche avec la confusion ambiante grâce à la vérité biblique éternelle qui révèle le caractère et la nature de Dieu.« QUI EST DIEU ? » n’est pas simplement un ajout d’informations religieuses à notre bagage intellectuel ; c’est une invitation à rencontrer et expérimenter le Dieu vivant tel qu’Il Se révèle dans les Écritures et dans nos vies aujourd’hui.Nous ne nous contentons pas d’un dieu fait à notre image ou modelé par la culture et le confort. Nous poursuivons le Dieu saint, glorieux et profondément personnel de la Bible.

Quand nous voyons Dieu plus clairement, nous commençons à voir tout le reste — y compris nous-mêmes — avec plus de justesse.

Je crois que comprendre les attributs de Dieu est non seulement fondamental pour une foi vivante enracinée en Christ, mais aussi essentiel pour marcher dans la liberté, la joie et la puissance du Saint-Esprit, sachant que nous sommes les fils et filles bien-aimés de Dieu.

Je prie que cette série vous inspire l’émerveillement, vous aide à ancrer votre identité en Christ, et vous appelle à une intimité plus profonde avec Celui qui vous a créé, qui vous connaît, qui vous aime et qui vous appelle par votre nom.

J’espère que vous êtes aussi enthousiastes que moi à l’idée d’aller plus loin ensemble. D’autres publications arrivent bientôt !

Vous pouvez partager cette introduction avec vos amis en cliquant sur le bouton « Partager » ci-dessous !

Vous pouvez aussi partager le lien vers la publication LIFE ON MISSION en cliquant sur ce bouton ci-dessous !

N’hésitez pas à consulter et partager les épisodes LIFE ON MISSION sur Apple Podcasts et Spotify (en anglais).

Je suis vraiment enthousiaste de voir comment notre magnifique Sauveur va encourager et édifier Son Épouse à travers ces publications.

Que Dieu vous bénisse afin que vous PUISSIEZ EMBRASSER QUI IL EST, ALIGNER VOTRE IDENTITÉ EN LUI, et EXPÉRIMENTER UNE VIE PLUS ABONDANTE AVEC LUI.

Praying out Scriptures from God’s Word is powerful. If you haven’t tried it already, today is the day you can start. I hope this inspires you to develop a rich prayer life of communion with the King of kings.

This is a time not only to read or listen to a prayer, but a time to join in praying for each other, for the Body of believers, as we are called by the Lord Jesus to be one, as Jesus and the Father are one.

Our prayer today is inspired by several Spirit-led prayers we find in the New Testament, prayed by Jesus, Paul, and other apostles. These prayers remain powerful guides for our prayers and intercession today. I will list the corresponding Scriptures below, including the references.

Let’s Pray!

Lord God Almighty,

Thank You for this opportunity to pray together.

Thank You for Your Word, authored by Your Spirit through many men, across different times and kingdoms, all pointing to Your amazing plan of redemption through Jesus.

We remember,

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

We remember 2 Timothy 3:16-17,

All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, equipped for every good work.

Your Word is such a gift to us. Thank You for it, Father.

Inspire us now as we uplift Your Bride, the Church, in prayer.

Triune God, we pray for Unity in Your Church.

Lord Jesus, you prayed to the Father:

“As you sent me into the world, so I have sent them into the world. And for their sake I consecrate myself, that they also may be sanctified in truth.

“I do not ask for these only, but also for those who will believe in me through their word, that they may all be one, just as you, Father, are in me, and I in you, that they also may be in us, so that the world may believe that you have sent me.” - John 17:18-21

Father, may we be one, as You and Jesus are one. By the power of Your Spirit, may we be united so that the world may believe that You sent Jesus to save and redeem us from wrath, death, and sin. May we be faithful witnesses and representatives of Jesus and Your Kingdom.

All-knowing Father of glory, we ask for a deeper knowledge of Christ and the hope of His calling.

I pray for my brothers and sisters,

“that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, may give you the Spirit of wisdom and of revelation in the knowledge of him, having the eyes of your hearts enlightened, that you may know what is the hope to which he has called you, what are the riches of his glorious inheritance in the saints, and what is the immeasurable greatness of his power toward us who believe, according to the working of his great might that he worked in Christ when he raised him from the dead and seated him at his right hand in the heavenly places, far above all rule and authority and power and dominion, and above every name that is named, not only in this age but also in the one to come.” - Ephesians 1:17–21

King Jesus, we pray for power, love, and the fullness of God in the Church.

We pray according to Your Word in Ephesians 3:16–21,

“that according to the riches of his glory he may grant you to be strengthened with power through his Spirit in your inner being, so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith—that you, being rooted and grounded in love, may have strength to comprehend with all the saints what is the breadth and length and height and depth, and to know the love of Christ that surpasses knowledge, that you may be filled with all the fullness of God.

Now to him who is able to do far more abundantly than all that we ask or think, according to the power at work within us, to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, forever and ever. Amen.”

Source of all that is good, may love, purity, and fruitfulness in Christ abound in the Bride of Christ.

“And it is my prayer that your love may abound more and more, with knowledge and all discernment, so that you may approve what is excellent, and so be pure and blameless for the day of Christ, filled with the fruit of righteousness that comes through Jesus Christ, to the glory and praise of God.” - Philippians 1:9–11

Lord our God, by Your Spirit, may we take faith-filled action and glorify Christ, walking in a manner worthy of Your calling.

According to Your Word in 2 Thessalonians 1:11–12, we pray for our family in faith,

“that our God may make you worthy of his calling and may fulfill every resolve for good and every work of faith by his power, so that the name of our Lord Jesus may be glorified in you, and you in him, according to the grace of our God and the Lord Jesus Christ.”

Lord of peace, we pray for the Your peace and keen awareness of Your presence in the Church.

We pray according to Your Word in 2 Thessalonians 3:16,

“Now may the Lord of peace himself give you peace at all times in every way. The Lord be with you all.”

Steadfast Savior, we ask for our hearts to be rooted in Your love and perseverance.

With trust in Your leadership, we pray according to Your Word in 2 Thessalonians 3:5,

“May the Lord direct your hearts to the love of God and to the steadfastness of Christ.”

Holy, holy, holy God, may we embrace sanctification and holiness as you make us ready for Christ’s return.

Remembering Your unmatched commitment to us, we pray for Your church according to Your Word in 1 Thessalonians 5:23–24,

“Now may the God of peace himself sanctify you completely, and may your whole spirit and soul and body be kept blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. He who calls you is faithful; he will surely do it.”

Loving Father, Gracious Son, and Ever-present Spirit, we pray for Your grace, love, and our communion in You to be evident in our local communities.

By faith, we proclaim according to Your Word in 2 Corinthians 13:14,

“The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ and the love of God and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit be with you all.”

God of endurance and encouragement, may we press on together and practice glorifying You—unified in Christ.

We ask according to Your Word in Romans 15:5–6 for the sake of Your Bride,

“May the God of endurance and encouragement grant you to live in such harmony with one another, in accord with Christ Jesus, that together you may with one voice glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ.”

God of hope, by the power of Your Spirit, fill us to overflow with Your joy, hope, and peace as we trust in You.

Finally, with joy, we pray according to Romans 15:13 for our brothers and sisters,

“May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that by the power of the Holy Spirit you may abound in hope.”

We submit all these things to You, Lord Most Loving, and pray in the mighty name of Jesus Christ our Savior and Lord.

Amen.

Thank You, God!

I hope you are blessed by joining me in this prayer and inspired to keep cultivating a rich prayer life with the Lord, full of faith and fear of the Lord and centered on Christ.

If you’re willing, pray about who you could send this to and invite a friend to join in praying for our family in faith.

May God bless you today with a desire to keep praying, listening, and responding by faith!

First Things First: A Faith-Filled Encouragement

Each time you resist evil, you grow stronger.

Each time you flee from sexual immorality, you grow stronger.

Our loving Father in heaven equips His sons and daughters to be strong in Christ and in the strength of His might.

The deceiver wants feeble slaves, isolated & independent.

Sin enslaves and brings death.

Jesus came that you may have life and have it abundantly.

If you’re like me, you may need to hear that again. I want this reality to sink in, to go from head knowledge to heart knowledge, from intellectual agreement to experiential knowledge and real belief.

Let’s go deeper and welcome the Lord’s help to truly believe in our hearts that He is good, loving, and for us.

1. Each time we resist evil, we grow stronger.

When we face temptations and trials, our faith gets tested, and, as we lean on the Lord, our faith gets refined like raw and mixed metals are tested and refined to become pure and precious. With intentional resistance comes growth, just like our muscles grow as a result of intentionally embracing our muscles stretching and straining.

James 1:2-4 says,

2 Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, 3 for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness. 4 And let steadfastness have its full effect, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing.

Lord our Rock, our Shield, our Source of strength,

In Your love, grant us more of an eternal perspective to see and face our trials with abundant joy, knowing that You will strengthen us through these tests of faith. May our faith be found to be real and deeply rooted in Your love and truth. May we be ones who are steadfast and solid in our identity in Christ as beloved sons and daughters. I pray in the name of Jesus. Amen!

2. Each time we flee from sexual immorality, we grow stronger.

We can observe this in Joseph’s life, listed in the Bible from Genesis 37–50. Before Joseph was promoted second-in-command in Egypt, he was sold into slavery to Ishmaelites by his brothers, and sold again to Potiphar, an officer of Pharaoh, the captain of the guard in Egypt. Yet, despite these seemingly horrible circumstances, the LORD was with Joseph and blessed him to become a successful man in the Egyptian’s house.

3 [Joseph’s] master saw that the LORD was with him and that the LORD caused all that he did to succeed in his hands. 4 So Joseph found favor in his sight and attended him, and he made him overseer of his house and put him in charge of all that he had. 5 From the time that he made him overseer in his house and over all that he had, the LORD blessed the Egyptian's house for Joseph's sake; the blessing of the LORD was on all that he had, in house and field. 6 So he left all that he had in Joseph's charge, and because of him he had no concern about anything but the food he ate. - Genesis 39:3-6

Not only was Joseph successful, he was also a handsome young man, and Potiphar’s wife lusted after him. It says, she “cast her eyes on Joseph” and sought to seduce him daily. But, Joseph feared the LORD, and his conviction was revealed his response to Potiphar’s wife in verse 9, “How then can I do this great wickedness and sin against God?” So, Joseph denied her request day after day and grew stronger.

How do we know he gained strength by resisting evil and fleeing from sexual immorality?

Because Joseph’s resolve was put to the test. It turns out that Joseph’s resolve proved to be so strong, that even when Potiphar’s wife took hold of his garment to seduce him, it says “he left his garment in her hand and fled and got out of the house.” The LORD was with Joseph, even in the midst of many temptations to lust, and Joseph risked it all to abstain from sin through sexual immorality. Nevertheless, he was falsely accused by Potiphar’s wife, as though he was the one seeking to lie with her, and he was unjustly thrown into prison because of it. Joseph lost everything, but he was steadfast in his resolve and remained faithful to the Lord, and the Lord turned what seemed to be intended for evil for his good and the good of many nations.

It says in Genesis 39:21-23, that in spite of the seemingly terrible turn for the worse, all hope was not lost,

21 But the Lord was with Joseph and showed him steadfast love and gave him favor in the sight of the keeper of the prison. 22 And the keeper of the prison put Joseph in charge of all the prisoners who were in the prison. Whatever was done there, he was the one who did it. 23 The keeper of the prison paid no attention to anything that was in Joseph's charge, because the Lord was with him. And whatever he did, the Lord made it succeed.

When we resist evil and flee from sexual immorality, our trust in God grows deeper. We stop feeding our flesh and it loses its power over us. As we seek the Lord and feed on the Bread of Life, we nourish our spirits and grow stronger in Christ. When we resist evil and flee from sexual immorality, we get to better see the Lord as He is, as our Deliverer and our Savior then and our Savior now. He is our steadfast Rock in the midst of storms and our Rescuer. Our pride and ego weaken while our relationship with God strengthens. Our self-centered independence is replaced with Christ-centered dependence. We can openly acknowledge our weaknesses without despising them, for Christ’s power is made perfect in weakness (see 2 Cor. 12:9). We may be weak, but in Christ, we are strong and growing stronger.

3. Our loving Father in heaven equips His sons and daughters to be strong in the Lord and in the strength of His might.

Meanwhile, the defeated deceiver wants feeble, cowardly slaves, isolated & independent.

There is a battle going on for our souls, for our attention and our affection. That much is clear. Distractions and temptations to sin abound in every direction. Struggling with temptations to sin, addictions, or shame is never fun, but these battles leave us with a choice to make. We can acknowledge our need for God, cry out to our Savior, and experience God’s presence and power to deliver us, or, we can succumb to temptation, acting more like feeble slaves than beloved sons and daughters, empowered by the Lord’s strength and equipped with the full armor of God, listed in Ephesians 6.

The accuser of our souls wants to exploit and turn our weaknesses against us and against each other. The Lover of our souls wants to display His power through our weaknesses and turn them for our good, for the good of His Bride, the Church, and for His glory.

The enemy wants us living like cowards, hiding in the dark, afraid of being exposed. Jesus Christ wants us to walk in full freedom in the light, the freedom He paid for. The Light of the world Himself said, “You are the light of the world” (Matt. 5:14). Our Lord Jesus wants to shine His light in and through us to the world living in darkness by the power of His Spirit living in us.

As recorded in John 8:12, Jesus said,

“I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will not walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.”

We’re encouraged again in Ephesians 5:8-16,

“At one time you were darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Walk as children of light 9 (for the fruit of light is found in all that is good and right and true), 10 and try to discern what is pleasing to the Lord. 11 Take no part in the unfruitful works of darkness, but instead expose them. 12 For it is shameful even to speak of the things that they do in secret. 13 But when anything is exposed by the light, it becomes visible, 14 for anything that becomes visible is light. Therefore it says,

“Awake, O sleeper, and arise from the dead,and Christ will shine on you.”

15 Look carefully then how you walk, not as unwise but as wise, 16 making the best use of the time, because the days are evil.”

Come on! Let the Word of God enlighten your heart, soul, and mind. Let’s do this, friends. Jesus wouldn’t have called us to live in the light if it was impossible. Nothing is impossible with God. So, let’s refuse and rebuke the deceiver’s offer to live feeble, cowardly lives, acting like slaves rather than beloved sons and daughters. Let’s acknowledge isolation, independence, and self-reliance are false hopes that leaving us feeling disappointed, lonely, and lacking. No thanks. Not today. It’s time to wake up, forsake darkness, and live freely in the light as sons and daughters of our victorious King.

4. Sin enslaves and brings death, but Jesus came to give us abundant life.

Jesus is our Good Shepherd. Within one of my favorite passages in the entire Bible, John 10:1-18, Jesus spoke these words, recorded in verses 7-11,

7 “Truly, truly, I say to you, I am the door of the sheep. 8 All who came before me are thieves and robbers, but the sheep did not listen to them. 9 I am the door. If anyone enters by me, he will be saved and will go in and out and find pasture. 10 The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy. I came that they may have life and have it abundantly. 11 I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep.

Our Good Shepherd Jesus, is the Way, the Truth, and the Life, the door through which we receive eternal life. Sin, on the other hand, is a terrible master, an accomplice of death and the devil, the adversary of our souls, a liar from the beginning. The Liar wants us to stay held captive to sin, buried under hidden guilt and shame, but our victorious Savior already paid the price to set us free from the power of sin’s hold. Only in Jesus, only through Him, do we find freedom and abundant life.

Jesus said to His disciples:

“I am the way, and the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.” - John 14:6

On this topic, the Lord’s words are recorded in John 8:31-32,

Jesus said to the Jews who had believed him, “If you abide in my word, you are truly my disciples, 32 and you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.”

The reality of this violent opposition from the devil contrasted against God’s loving-kindness and power to deliver us are laid out in 1 Peter 5:6-11.

6 Humble yourselves, therefore, under the mighty hand of God so that at the proper time he may exalt you, 7 casting all your anxieties on him, because he cares for you. 8 Be sober-minded; be watchful. Your adversary the devil prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour. 9 Resist him, firm in your faith, knowing that the same kinds of suffering are being experienced by your brotherhood throughout the world. 10 And after you have suffered a little while, the God of all grace, who has called you to his eternal glory in Christ, will himself restore, confirm, strengthen, and establish you. 11 To him be the dominion forever and ever. Amen.

God be praised! Remember John 10:10, referenced earlier. Our Good Shepherd, Jesus, declares:

10 The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy. I came that they may have life and have it abundantly.

Today is a new day, friends. We are sheep, intentionally and lovingly cared for by Jesus Christ, our Good Shepherd. Let’s choose to follow Him. Let’s choose be set free by the Truth. Let’s decide to listen and respond to The Way, The Truth, and The Life. Let’s abide in His word as true disciples. Let’s walk in the way of truth, Jesus’ way. Let’s not agree with the Liar and believe lies. We get to choose abundant life with Christ. Let’s choose freedom in Christ today.

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Remember, because of Jesus’ Victory over sin, You are Victorious through Him!

Through Christ, we have been set free from the penalty of our sins!

Through Christ, we are being set free from the power of sin!

Through Christ, we will be set free from the presence of sin!

The Faith-Filled Final Exhortation

Friends, temptations will inevitably come, but we get to face them with Jesus, the One who is able and willing to save us. We can simply call upon the name of Jesus and be sustained and delivered. It’s our Good Shepherd who invites us:

28 “Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. 29 Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.” - Matthew 11:28-29

Through this Victory in Christ series, “Slaves to Sons,” we are asking, seeking, and knocking together as Jesus instructs us in Matthew 7:7-8, trusting that our great God will give, reveal, and open doors. We will continue to discover how to get freedom from sexual immorality, addiction, and shame as we embrace our identity as a beloved sons and daughters of our Father in Heaven.

Our God is for us, who can be against us!

Stayed tuned for more to come. May God bless you!

This free devotional comes from my book, Thank You, Father: 30 Days of Gratitude, Prayer, & Praise - Men’s Devotional, available on Amazon: Ebook, $7.99 (or $0.00 for Kindle Unlimited) or Paperback, $13.99. If you’ve been blessed by this devotional, you can leave a review on Amazon—that would bless me.

Day 24: Encouraged by God

“I give you thanks, O LORD, with my whole heart; before the gods, I sing your praise; I bow down toward your holy temple and give thanks to your name for your steadfast love and your faithfulness, for you have exalted above all things your name and your word. On the day I called, you answered me; my strength of soul you increased.”

Psalm 138:1-3

“When I thought, 'My foot slips,' your steadfast love, O LORD, held me up. When the cares of my heart are many, your consolations cheer my soul.”

Psalm 94:18-19

“Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.”

Isaiah 41:10

Devotional

Like every other good and perfect gift, the LORD is the Source of encouragement.

Our Creator does not despise our weakness, rather, His power is clearly visible in our moments of need.

Our weaknesses remind us that we are designed to depend on God wholeheartedly.

In every season, the promise of the LORD remains true: we need not fear for He is with us, ready to strengthen and help us.

The unwavering love and faithfulness of the LORD are toward His beloved Bride. He upholds us with His righteous right hand.

Our Father in heaven has proven Himself to be worthy of our gratitude and trust.

When our hearts are weakened by worry, we can find strength in the Lord and timely encouragement in His words.

Men of God

We need encouragement as much as any other, especially so from the One who knows us better than we know ourselves.

We have nothing to hide from the LORD who loves and upholds us.

In ways we can see and in ways we cannot, our God is with us, supporting us through every situation.

His love is not based on shifting circumstances. It is as steadfast as His commitment to us.

God’s promises never fail.

Amid moments of doubt or discouragement, we can turn to the Lord and find solace and strength in His presence.

Application

Pause and reflect on specific instances when you felt God's love upholding you during difficult times. Recall His faithfulness to you up until now and lift up your praise to God. Express thankfulness to God for His encouragement throughout the day—set reminders on your calendar or make notes of encouragement from God’s Word. Remember the Lord’s presence and promises. Inscribe them on the tablet of your heart.

When you are keenly aware of your weakness or need, turn to the Lord in prayer. Say His holy name aloud: “Jesus.” Acknowledge His presence with you now and seek His face. He knows what you need and wants you to ask. The Good Shepherd will help you to take the next step of faith. Trust in His promises and take courage, knowing that God Almighty is and will be with you.

Prayer

Gracious God,

You are my Lord.

There’s no one like You, Lord Jesus, and none beside You.

Thank You for loving me and for Your encouragement when I am overwhelmed.

You have been faithful to me, in ways I have and haven’t seen. You uphold me with Your righteous right hand.

You are my Source of strength and comfort. I depend on You.

May I trust wholeheartedly in Your holy name and in Your life-giving Word.

Help me to continually seek You first, holding tightly to Your promises and loosely to my plans.

May I walk confidently in the assurance of Your constant love and support.

In Jesus' name, I pray. Amen.

Divine Dialogue

Pause, Listen, Record, and Respond

1 Samuel 3:10

Klein, Tanner. "Day 24: Encouraged by God." Thank You, Father: 30 Days of Gratitude, Prayer, & Praise, KLEINHAUS Books, 2024, pp. 197-203.

*Thank You, Father: 30 Days of Gratitude, Prayer, & Praise - Men’s Devotional is available on Amazon: Ebook, $7.99 (or $0.00 for Kindle Unlimited) or Paperback, $13.99.* If you’ve been blessed by this devotional, you can leave a review on Amazon—that would bless me.

🇫🇷 La traduction française

Jour 24 : Encouragé par Dieu

“Je te célèbre de tout mon cœur,Je chante tes louanges en présence des dieux.Je me prosterne dans ton saint temple,Et je célèbre ton nom à cause de ta bienveillance et de ta vérité,Car tu as exalté ton nom et ta parole au-dessus de toute chose.Le jour où j’ai crié, tu m’as répondu,Tu as fortifié mon âme.”

Psaume 138.1–3

“Quand je dis : Mon pied chancelle !Ta bienveillance, Éternel, me soutient.Quand les pensées s’agitent en foule au-dedans de moi,Tes consolations réjouissent mon âme.”

Psaume 94.18–19

“Ne crains rien, car je suis avec toi ;Ne promène pas des regards inquiets, car je suis ton Dieu ;Je te fortifie, je viens à ton secours,Je te soutiens par ma droite triomphante.”

Ésaïe 41.10

Méditation

Comme tout autre don bon et parfait, le Seigneur est la Source de l’encouragement.Notre Créateur ne méprise pas notre faiblesse ; Sa puissance se manifeste dans nos besoins.

Nos faiblesses nous rappellent que nous avons été créés pour dépendre totalement de Dieu.

En toute saison, la promesse du Seigneur demeure vraie : nous n’avons rien à craindre, car Il est avec nous, prêt à nous fortifier et à nous secourir.

L’amour fidèle et la fidélité du Seigneur s’adressent à son épouse bien-aimée. Il nous soutient par Sa droite triomphante.

Notre Père céleste s’est montré digne de notre reconnaissance et de notre confiance.

Quand nos cœurs sont affaiblis par les soucis, nous pouvons trouver la force dans le Seigneur et l’encouragement opportun dans Sa Parole.

Pour Les Hommes de Dieu

Nous avons besoin d’encouragement tout autant que quiconque — et plus encore, de Celui qui nous connaît mieux que nous-mêmes.

Nous n’avons rien à cacher devant le Seigneur qui nous aime et nous soutient.

D’une manière visible ou invisible, notre Dieu est avec nous, nous soutenant dans chaque situation.

Son amour ne dépend pas des circonstances changeantes. Il est aussi inébranlable que Son engagement envers nous.

Les promesses de Dieu ne faillissent jamais.

Dans les moments de doute ou de découragement, nous pouvons nous tourner vers le Seigneur et trouver réconfort et force en Sa présence.

Application

Fais une pause et réfléchis à des moments précis où tu as ressenti l’amour de Dieu te soutenir dans les épreuves.Souviens-toi de Sa fidélité jusqu’à aujourd’hui, et élève à Lui ta louange.

Exprime ta reconnaissance à Dieu pour Ses encouragements tout au long de la journée — programme des rappels dans ton agenda ou note les paroles encourageantes de la Parole de Dieu.

Souviens-toi de la présence et des promesses du Seigneur.Grave-les sur la tablette de ton cœur.

Quand tu ressens ta faiblesse ou ton besoin, tourne-toi vers le Seigneur dans la prière. Prononce Son saint nom :« Jésus. »Reconnais Sa présence maintenant avec toi et cherche Sa face. Il sait ce dont tu as besoin et Il désire que tu le Lui demandes.

Le Bon Berger t’aidera à faire le prochain pas de foi.Fais-Lui confiance et prends courage, sachant que le Dieu Tout-Puissant est avec toi et le sera toujours.

Prière

Dieu de grâce,

Tu es mon Seigneur.

Il n’y a personne comme Toi, Seigneur Jésus, et nul autre que Toi.

Merci de m’aimer et de m’encourager quand je suis submergé.

Tu m’as été fidèle, dans ce que j’ai vu et ce que je n’ai pas vu.Tu me soutiens par Ta droite triomphante.

Tu es ma Source de force et de consolation. Je dépends de Toi.

Fais que je me confie pleinement en Ton saint nom et en Ta Parole vivante.

Aide-moi à Te chercher continuellement en premier, en m’attachant fermement à Tes promesses et légèrement à mes plans.

Fais que je marche avec assurance, certain de Ton amour constant et de Ton soutien.

Au nom de Jésus, je prie. Amen.

Dialogue Divin

Pause, écoute, écris, réponds

« Parle, Éternel, car Ton serviteur écoute. »

1 Samuel 3:10

🇫🇷 La traduction française de:

Klein, Tanner. "Day 24: Encouraged by God." Thank You, Father: 30 Days of Gratitude, Prayer, & Praise, KLEINHAUS Books, 2024, pp. 197-203.

*Thank You, Father: 30 Days of Gratitude, Prayer, & Praise - Men’s Devotional est disponible sur Amazon : Ebook, 7,99 $ (ou 0,00 $ pour Kindle Unlimited) ou Broché, 13,99 $.* Si cette dévotion vous a été bénéfique, vous pouvez laisser un avis sur Amazon — cela me bénirait.

*La version biblique utilisée : Colombe (COL)

This free devotional comes from my book, Thank You, Father: 30 Days of Gratitude, Prayer, & Praise - Men’s Devotional, available on Amazon: Ebook, $7.99 (or $0.00 for Kindle Unlimited) or Paperback, $13.99. If you’ve been blessed by this devotional, you can leave a review on Amazon—that would bless me.

Day 23: Redeemed by the Lamb

“I have blotted out your transgressions like a cloud and your sins like mist; return to me, for I have redeemed you.”

Isaiah 44:22

“I wait for the LORD, my soul waits, and in his word, I hope; my soul waits for the LORD more than watchmen for the morning, more than watchmen for the morning. O Israel, hope in the LORD! For with the LORD, there is steadfast love, and with him is plentiful redemption.”

Psalm 130:5-7

“Christ redeemed us from the curse of the law by becoming a curse for us—for it is written, 'Cursed is everyone who is hanged on a tree'—so that in Christ Jesus the blessing of Abraham might come to the Gentiles, so that we might receive the promised Spirit through faith.”

Galatians 3:13-14

Devotional

These passages reveal God's redemptive heart.

Through Jesus’ atoning sacrifice, Christ removed the stain of our sin so that we would have the gift of eternal life through Him.

In perfect justice and mercy, God made a way to offer us forgiveness.

In steadfast love, the Lord redeemed us from our sins and invites us to abide in Him, as He abides in us (John 15:4).

Through faith, we are blessed with the promised Holy Spirit as God planned from the beginning.

Like the Psalmist, we have every reason to turn to the LORD and hope in His Word completely.

Men of God

Knowingly or not, we can carry the weight of our past mistakes and regrets.

God’s Word reminds us that we are not defined by our past sins.

As a created being, we are defined by our Creator who has willingly forgiven us and set us free from the curse of the law through Christ.

Our guilt is atoned for, our debt is fully paid.

Our hope lies in His steadfast love and the assurance of redemption through faith in Jesus.

Before we ever chose Him, our Heavenly Father drew us toward Himself.

By grace, we are covered by His “steadfast love” and “plentiful redemption” (Ps. 130:7).

Application

Let us give thanks to God for His redemptive work in our lives, from the moment we first trusted in Him until now. Remember that Jesus was our substitute. He died for our sins, that we may live lives like Him, free from the bondage of sin. His kindness is meant to lead us to repentance. Turn to the Lord who calls out: “return to me, for I have redeemed you” (Isa. 44:22). Acknowledge any areas of guilt or shame in your inner life and bring them before the Lord, trusting in His forgiveness.

Live in the light of God’s grace, stewarding the freedom the Lamb of God secured for you with reverence before Him. Take steps forward in faith as a redeemed child of God. Share this message of redemption with others, that they too may experience the transformative power of God's grace and love.

Prayer

Heavenly Father,

Thank You for Your abundant redemption.

I recognize this gift of redemption cost the sinless life of Your Son, Jesus.

Thank You for forgiving my sins and setting me free through Christ's sacrifice.

Your grace is sufficient.

I surrender my past to You. Help me again to embrace the joy found in Your steadfast love.

May I find my utmost hope in Your Word. May my soul trust in You as I walk with and wait for You, Lord my God.

With the help of Your Spirit, I will not be ashamed to share the Good News of redemption through Jesus Christ.

May my heart remain attentive and responsive to Your voice, gracious Redeemer.

In Jesus' name, I pray. Amen.

Divine Dialogue

Pause, Listen, Record, and Respond

John 10:1-18

Klein, Tanner. "Day 23: Redeemed by the Lamb." Thank You, Father: 30 Days of Gratitude, Prayer, & Praise, KLEINHAUS Books, 2024, pp. 189-195.

*Thank You, Father: 30 Days of Gratitude, Prayer, & Praise - Men’s Devotional is available on Amazon: Ebook, $7.99 (or $0.00 for Kindle Unlimited) or Paperback, $13.99.* If you’ve been blessed by this devotional, you can leave a review on Amazon—that would bless me.

🇫🇷 La traduction française

Jour 23 : Rachetés par l'Agneau

« J’ai effacé tes transgressions comme un nuage, et tes péchés comme une brume ; reviens à Moi, car Je t’ai racheté. »

Ésaïe 44:22

« J’espère en l’Éternel, mon âme espère, et j’attends Sa parole ; mon âme attend le Seigneur plus que les gardes n’attendent le matin, plus que les gardes n’attendent le matin. Israël, mets ton espoir en l’Éternel ! Car avec l’Éternel est la bienveillance, et avec Lui une pleine rédemption. »

Psaume 130:5–7

« Christ nous a rachetés de la malédiction de la loi, étant devenu malédiction pour nous — car il est écrit : Maudit est quiconque est pendu au bois — afin que la bénédiction d’Abraham ait pour les nations son accomplissement en Jésus-Christ, et que nous recevions, par la foi, l’Esprit promis. »

Galates 3:13–14

Méditation

Ces passages révèlent le cœur rédempteur de Dieu.

Par le sacrifice expiatoire de Jésus, Christ a effacé la tache de notre péché afin que nous recevions le don de la vie éternelle par Lui.

Dans une justice parfaite mêlée de miséricorde, Dieu a ouvert un chemin pour nous offrir le pardon.

Par Son amour fidèle, le Seigneur nous a rachetés de nos fautes et nous invite à demeurer en Lui, comme Il demeure en nous (Jean 15:4).

Par la foi, nous recevons la bénédiction du Saint-Esprit promis, comme Dieu l’avait prévu dès le commencement.

À l’exemple du psalmiste, nous avons toutes les raisons de nous tourner vers l’Éternel et d’espérer pleinement en Sa Parole.

Hommes de Dieu

Consciemment ou non, nous pouvons porter le poids de nos fautes passées et de nos regrets.

La Parole de Dieu nous rappelle que nous ne sommes pas définis par nos péchés passés.

En tant que créature, c’est notre Créateur qui nous définit, Celui qui nous a volontairement pardonnés et libérés de la malédiction de la loi par Christ.

Notre culpabilité est expiée, notre dette est entièrement payée.

Notre espérance repose dans Son amour fidèle et dans l’assurance de la rédemption par la foi en Jésus.

Avant même que nous ne L’ayons choisi, notre Père céleste nous attirait à Lui.

Par grâce, nous sommes couverts par Sa « bienveillance » et Sa « pleine rédemption » (Ps. 130:7).

Application

Rendons grâce à Dieu pour Son œuvre rédemptrice dans nos vies, depuis le jour où nous avons placé notre confiance en Lui jusqu’à aujourd’hui.

Souvenons-nous que Jésus a été notre substitut. Il est mort pour nos péchés afin que nous vivions une vie libre de l’esclavage du péché, une vie semblable à la Sienne.

Sa bonté nous conduit à la repentance.

Revenons à Celui qui nous appelle :« Reviens à Moi, car Je t’ai racheté » (Ésaïe 44:22).

Reconnaissez devant le Seigneur toute culpabilité ou honte cachée dans votre cœur, et apportez-les-Lui avec confiance dans Son pardon.

Marchez dans la lumière de la grâce de Dieu, en gérant avec révérence la liberté que l’Agneau de Dieu vous a acquise.

Avancez avec foi comme un enfant racheté de Dieu.

Partagez ce message de rédemption autour de vous, afin que d'autres puissent aussi expérimenter la puissance transformatrice de la grâce et de l'amour de Dieu.

Prière

Père céleste,

Merci pour Ta rédemption abondante.

Je reconnais que ce don m’a coûté la vie sans péché de Ton Fils, Jésus.

Merci d’avoir pardonné mes fautes et de m’avoir libéré par le sacrifice de Christ.

Ta grâce me suffit.

Je Te remets mon passé. Aide-moi à retrouver la joie que procure Ton amour fidèle.

Que je place mon espérance la plus profonde en Ta Parole. Que mon âme Te fasse confiance alors que je marche avec Toi et T’attends, Seigneur mon Dieu.

Avec l’aide de Ton Esprit, je ne rougirai pas d’annoncer la Bonne Nouvelle de la rédemption en Jésus-Christ.

Que mon cœur reste attentif et réceptif à Ta voix, Toi, mon Rédempteur plein de grâce.

Au nom de Jésus, je prie. Amen.

Dialogue Divin

Pause, Écoute, Note et Réponds

Jean 10:1–18

🇫🇷 La traduction française de:

Klein, Tanner. "Day 23: Redeemed by the Lamb." Thank You, Father: 30 Days of Gratitude, Prayer, & Praise, KLEINHAUS Books, 2024, pp. 189-195.

*Thank You, Father: 30 Days of Gratitude, Prayer, & Praise - Men’s Devotional est disponible sur Amazon : Ebook, 7,99 $ (ou 0,00 $ pour Kindle Unlimited) ou Broché, 13,99 $.* Si cette dévotion vous a été bénéfique, vous pouvez laisser un avis sur Amazon — cela me bénirait.

*La version biblique utilisée : Colombe (COL)

Hey friends, thanks for joining the LIFE ON MISSION with TANNER KLEIN Podcast. Welcome back to the Who Is God series.

I’m expectant in faith, trusting that our comforting Savior will continue to encourage and build up His Bride through these posts. As a reminder, here’s the heart of this series:

EMBRACING WHO GOD IS helps us ALIGN OUR IDENTITY IN CHRIST which leads to EXPERIENCING MORE ABUNDANT LIFE WITH GOD.

Get ready, because we’re about to engage with the living God and meditate on His nature as the Comforter of His people. I hope this fuels your faith and inspires lasting gratitude, prayer, & praise. Let’s go!

GOD IS THE COMFORTER

What does this mean?

To say God is the Comforter is to declare that He is the Source of comfort, He draws near to soothe, to heal, and to strengthen us in every sorrow and storm.

He is not distant or indifferent—He is Emmanuel, God with us, our refuge in trouble, the gentle Shepherd who gathers the weary in His arms.

His comfort isn’t shallow or fleeting.

It is deep, personal, sustaining—rooted in His steadfast love and compassionate heart.

Through His Spirit, He consoles us, lifts our eyes, and gives us real hope even in the midst of pain.

I love this about God.

He is not only glorious in majesty, our Defender, our Rock, the One we can cling to, He’s also near, closer than the breath in our lungs, listening, ready to respond and to receive us with loving-kindness.

He knows how to comfort like no one else.

He meets us right where we are and offers to fill us with His peace.

There is nothing and no one like Him.

Before we go further…

Let’s pause.

Take a moment to reflect on the tender-hearted God we are approaching—the One who promises to be close to the brokenhearted, to bind up wounds, to carry you through what feels impossible.

Just take 30 seconds. Be still before the Comforter. He is here. He is with you now.

You can let your guard down before Him. God already knows your heart and your thoughts. He knows what’s weighing on you.

Let your heart soften with His peace. Breathe deeply. Behold the God who never leaves you, never forsakes you.

Are you ready? Let’s embrace His comfort with open arms. Let’s marvel before the God who holds us close.

God’s Word Reveals HE IS THE COMFORTER

“Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted.”

- Matthew 5:4

“The LORD is near to the brokenhearted and saves the crushed in spirit.”

- Psalm 34:18

“Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.”

- Matthew 11:28-30

“If you love me, you will keep my commandments. And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another Helper, to be with you forever, even the Spirit of truth, whom the world cannot receive, because it neither sees him nor knows him. You know him, for he dwells with you and will be in you.”

- John 14:15-17

1. Behold: Who God Is

God is our trustworthy, omnipresent Comforter.

He is perfectly reliable and always accessible.

He draws near—not just to the joyful, but to the weary.

The Wonderful Counselor draws near not just to those who seem to have it all together, but to the struggling, to those who mourn, to those who feel crushed inside.

He sees the tears you cry in secret. He knows the weight on your chest. And He doesn’t push you away nor do your greatest challenges push Him away. He moves toward you.

His Spirit is our Helper, ever-present, offering peace amid our moments of chaos and rest in the midst of our restlessness.

His Spirit points us to Jesus, our Good Shepherd, who offers the rest our souls crave.

No wound is too deep. No ache too hidden. God comes to comfort with perfect understanding and everlasting kindness.

2. Believe: Who You Are in Christ

Because God is the Comforter, you are never alone in your pain.

You are seen.

You are known.

You are loved with a love that doesn’t flinch at your mess or sorrow.

As a child of God, you have access to the throne of grace, access to the King Himself.

Thanks to Jesus’ victory on the cross, you not only have permission to approach the living God, but also the freedom to draw near to your Father in heaven, anytime, anywhere.

In Christ, you are invited to come as you are—no matter how tired, grieving, uncertain, or beaten down you may be—and to find rest for your soul in the arms of your Savior.

You are carried.

You are cared for.

You are held by the everlasting arms of the Beautiful One who will never let you go.

Like David, you can proclaim with faith:

“The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want.

He makes me lie down in green pastures.

He leads me beside still waters.

He restores my soul.

He leads me in paths of righteousness

for his name's sake.

Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death,

I will fear no evil,

for you are with me;

your rod and your staff,

they comfort me.”

- Psalm 23:1-4

3. Become: Like Jesus, Compassionate and Gentle

A Declaration for Today (You can say this with me by faith):

“Lord, I acknowledge You are my Comforter. I need Your comfort and counsel. This world offers many things to cling to, many ways to seek self-comfort, but they do not satisfy. I choose to look to You, not to other people or the things of this world, to receive the deep, real comfort my soul craves. I choose to rest in Your loving presence. You are enough for me.”

A Call to Trust:

When the world feels harsh and your strength feels all but gone, let the nearness of God be your comfort.

As the Lord God, the Holy One of Israel, spoke to His people through His servant Isaiah, imagine Him speaking this promise to you now:

“In returning and rest you shall be saved; in quietness and in trust shall be your strength.”

- Isaiah 30:15

So, return to the Lord. Rest in Him. He will save you. Quiet your soul before Him. Choose to place your trust in Him. The Lord will strengthen you in His presence.

God Almighty is not pacing the heavens, anxious over your or my struggles.

The Lord your Comforter is with you, beside you, calming the storm within and around you.

Let Him comfort you.

Let Him love you.

Let Him be your peace.

You can trust the One who carried the cross and carries you now.

Take a Step of Faith:

When stress or sorrow arise today, pause. Whisper His name: Jesus. Invite the Comforter to fill your heart with His peace. Let His presence satisfy your soul before you try to fix anything else.

Remember God’s Promise:

“He will wipe away every tear from their eyes, and death shall be no more, neither shall there be mourning, nor crying, nor pain anymore, for the former things have passed away.”

- Revelation 21:4

Let’s Pray

Gentle Comforter,

You are beautiful.

There is no one like You.

You see me fully, love me perfectly, and never grow weary of drawing near.

Thank You!

Thank You for coming close when I feel far away.

Thank You for soothing my soul with Your Spirit.

Your love satisfies.

Your grace uplifts me.

I acknowledge You don’t only give comfort, You are the Comforter.

You are the Source of real, true, deep heart-, mind-, and soul-satisfying comfort, unlike anyone or anything else.

Today I receive Your peace by faith, not as the world gives, but as only You can give.

Thank You for Your shalom, restoring wholeness within me.

Shape me to look more like You, full of compassion and grace.

And help me to comfort others with the same comfort with which You bless me.

Open doors for me to share the love You pour into my heart.

I love You, Lord.

You are my rest, my refuge, and my joy.

In Jesus’ name I pray and give thanks to You, Father.

Amen.

May God’s comfort quiet your soul, restore your heart, and draw you ever closer to Him, the One who is more beautiful than words can express—now and forever.

Thanks for tuning in and joining me meditating on the Lord our Comforter. This is the 8th post in this series called WHO IS GOD? A Series on Rediscovering the One True, Living God—and Who You Are Because of Him.

We’re on an intentional journey of growing to trust in God’s character and nature, allowing Him to shape our identity in Christ and responding by faith.

If you haven’t already, check out the latest podcasts highlighting Who God Is: Beautiful, Immutable (Unchanging), Love, a Consuming Fire, Infinite, Holy, and you can find the series introduction too. These are linked here.

* GOD IS BEAUTIFUL

* GOD IS IMMUTABLE (UNCHANGING)

* GOD IS LOVE

* GOD IS A CONSUMING FIRE

* INFINITE GOD

* GOD IS HOLY

* WHO IS GOD? Series Introduction

Were you blessed by our comforting God through this post? You can share it with a friend. Copy the link, send it to a buddy, your parent, a sibling, or your neighbor.

For all the podcast listeners, feel free to share these LIFE ON MISSION posts via Apple Podcasts and Spotify.

May God bless you to EMBRACE WHO GOD IS, ALIGN YOUR IDENTITY IN HIM, and EXPERIENCE MORE ABUNDANT LIFE WITH HIM. May God bless you today.

DIEU EST LE CONSOLATEUR - QUI EST DIEU ? Une série pour redécouvrir le seul vrai Dieu vivant – et qui vous êtes à cause de Lui

Contempler les attributs, le caractère et la nature de Dieu

Salut les amis, merci de rejoindre le podcast LIFE ON MISSION avec TANNER KLEIN. Bienvenue dans la série Qui est Dieu ?

Je suis dans l’attente, avec foi, croyant que notre Sauveur consolateur va continuer d’encourager et d’édifier Son Église à travers ces publications. Pour rappel, voici le cœur de cette série : ACCUEILLIR QUI EST DIEU nous aide à ALIGNER NOTRE IDENTITÉ EN CHRIST, ce qui conduit à EXPÉRIMENTER UNE VIE PLUS ABONDANTE AVEC DIEU.

Prépare-toi, car nous allons contempler le Dieu vivant et méditer sur Sa nature en tant que Consolateur de Son peuple. J’espère que cela nourrira ta foi et inspirera une reconnaissance, une prière et une louange durables. C’est parti !

DIEU EST LE CONSOLATEUR

Que signifie cela ? Dire que Dieu est le Consolateur, c’est déclarer qu’Il est la Source du réconfort. Il s’approche pour apaiser, guérir et fortifier dans chaque chagrin et tempête. Il n’est ni distant ni indifférent — Il est Emmanuel, Dieu avec nous, notre refuge dans la détresse, le Berger doux qui recueille les fatigués dans Ses bras.

Son réconfort n’est ni superficiel ni passager. Il est profond, personnel, soutenant — enraciné dans Son amour fidèle et Son cœur plein de compassion. Par Son Esprit, Il nous console, relève nos regards, et nous donne une espérance réelle, même au milieu de la douleur.

J’aime tant cela chez Dieu. Il n’est pas seulement glorieux en majesté, notre Défenseur, notre Rocher, Celui à qui nous pouvons nous accrocher — Il est aussi proche, plus proche que le souffle dans nos poumons, à l’écoute, prêt à répondre et à nous accueillir avec bonté.

Il sait comment consoler comme personne d’autre. Il nous rejoint là où nous sommes, et Il nous offre de remplir notre cœur de Sa paix. Il n’y a rien ni personne comme Lui.

Avant d’aller plus loin...

Fais une pause. Prends un moment pour réfléchir à ce Dieu au cœur tendre vers qui nous nous approchons — Celui qui promet d’être proche des cœurs brisés, de panser les blessures, de te porter à travers ce qui semble impossible. Prends 30 secondes. Reste en silence devant le Consolateur. Il est là. Il est avec toi maintenant.

Tu peux baisser ta garde devant Lui. Dieu connaît déjà ton cœur et tes pensées. Il sait ce qui te pèse. Laisse Son calme adoucir ton cœur. Respire profondément. Contemple le Dieu qui ne t’abandonne jamais, ne te délaisse jamais. Es-tu prêt(e) ? Accueillons Son réconfort à bras ouverts. Émerveillons-nous devant le Dieu qui nous tient tout près.

LA PAROLE DE DIEU RÉVÈLE QU’IL EST LE CONSOLATEUR

« Heureux ceux qui pleurent, car ils seront consolés. » - Matthieu 5.4

« L’Éternel est près de ceux qui ont le cœur brisé, et Il sauve ceux dont l’esprit est abattu. » - Psaume 34.18

« Venez à moi, vous tous qui êtes fatigués et chargés, et je vous donnerai du repos. Prenez mon joug sur vous et recevez mes instructions, car je suis doux et humble de cœur ; et vous trouverez le repos pour vos âmes. Car mon joug est doux, et mon fardeau léger. » - Matthieu 11.28-30

« Si vous m’aimez, gardez mes commandements. Et moi, je prierai le Père, et Il vous donnera un autre Consolateur, afin qu’Il demeure éternellement avec vous, l’Esprit de vérité, que le monde ne peut pas recevoir, parce qu’il ne Le voit point et ne Le connaît point ; mais vous, vous Le connaissez, car Il demeure avec vous, et Il sera en vous. » - Jean 14.15-17

1. Contemple : Qui est Dieu

Dieu est notre Consolateur digne de confiance, omniprésent. Il est parfaitement fiable et toujours accessible. Il s’approche — non seulement des joyeux, mais des fatigués. Le Conseiller merveilleux se rapproche non seulement de ceux qui semblent tout maîtriser, mais de ceux qui peinent, qui pleurent, qui se sentent écrasés intérieurement.

Il voit les larmes que tu verses en secret. Il connaît le poids sur ta poitrine. Et Il ne te repousse pas — tes plus grandes douleurs ne Le repoussent pas non plus. Il s’approche de toi. Son Esprit est notre Aide, toujours présent, offrant la paix au cœur du chaos et le repos au cœur de l’agitation. Son Esprit nous oriente vers Jésus, notre Bon Berger, qui nous donne le repos que notre âme désire.

Aucune blessure n’est trop profonde. Aucune douleur n’est trop cachée. Dieu vient consoler avec une compréhension parfaite et une bonté éternelle.

2. Crois : Qui tu es en Christ

Parce que Dieu est le Consolateur, tu n’es jamais seul(e) dans ta douleur. Tu es vu(e). Tu es connu(e). Tu es aimé(e) d’un amour qui ne recule pas devant ton chagrin ou ton désordre.

En tant qu’enfant de Dieu, tu as accès au trône de la grâce, accès au Roi Lui-même. Grâce à la victoire de Jésus à la croix, tu as non seulement la permission de t’approcher du Dieu vivant, mais aussi la liberté de t’approcher du Père céleste, à tout moment, en tout lieu.

En Christ, tu es invité(e) à venir tel(le) que tu es — peu importe ta fatigue, ton deuil, ton incertitude, ou ton épuisement — et à trouver du repos pour ton âme dans les bras de ton Sauveur. Tu es porté(e). Tu es pris(e) en charge. Tu es tenu(e) dans les bras éternels du Dieu de beauté, qui ne te laissera jamais.

Comme David, tu peux proclamer avec foi :

« L’Éternel est mon berger : je ne manquerai de rien. Il me fait reposer dans de verts pâturages, Il me dirige près des eaux paisibles. Il restaure mon âme, Il me conduit dans les sentiers de la justice, à cause de son nom. Quand je marche dans la vallée de l’ombre de la mort, je ne crains aucun mal, car tu es avec moi : ta houlette et ton bâton me rassurent. » — Psaume 23.1-4

3. Deviens : Comme Jésus, compatissant et doux

Une Déclaration pour aujourd’hui (Tu peux la dire avec moi par la foi) :

« Seigneur, je reconnais que Tu es mon Consolateur. J’ai besoin de Ton réconfort et de Tes conseils. Ce monde propose bien des choses auxquelles s’accrocher, bien des moyens de chercher un faux réconfort, mais rien ne me satisfait. Je choisis de me tourner vers Toi, et non vers les autres ou les choses de ce monde, pour recevoir le vrai réconfort que mon âme désire. Je choisis de me reposer dans Ta présence aimante. Tu me suffis. »

Un appel à faire confiance :

Quand le monde semble dur et que tes forces sont à bout, que la proximité de Dieu soit ton réconfort.

Comme le Seigneur Dieu, le Saint d’Israël, l’a dit à Son peuple par Son serviteur Ésaïe, imagine-Le maintenant te parler directement avec cette promesse :

« C’est dans la conversion et le repos que sera votre salut, c’est dans le calme et la confiance que sera votre force. » — Ésaïe 30.15

Alors, reviens au Seigneur. Repose-toi en Lui. Il te sauvera. Apaise ton âme devant Lui. Choisis de Lui faire confiance. Le Seigneur te fortifiera par Sa présence.

Dieu Tout-Puissant ne fait pas les cent pas dans le ciel, anxieux face à tes luttes ou aux miennes. Le Seigneur, ton Consolateur, est avec toi, à tes côtés, apaisant la tempête en toi et autour de toi. Laisse-Le te consoler. Laisse-Le t’aimer. Laisse-Le être ta paix. Tu peux faire confiance à Celui qui a porté la croix — et qui te porte maintenant.

Fais un pas de foi :

Quand le stress ou le chagrin surgissent aujourd’hui, fais une pause. Chuchote Son nom : Jésus. Invite le Consolateur à remplir ton cœur de Sa paix. Laisse Sa présence satisfaire ton âme avant d’essayer de tout arranger.

Souviens-toi de la promesse de Dieu :

« Il essuiera toute larme de leurs yeux, et la mort ne sera plus ; il n’y aura plus ni deuil, ni cri, ni douleur, car les premières choses ont disparu. » — Apocalypse 21.4

Prions

Doux Consolateur, Tu es magnifique. Il n’y a personne comme Toi. Tu me vois pleinement, Tu m’aimes parfaitement, et Tu ne te lasses jamais de t’approcher de moi. Merci ! Merci de venir tout près quand je me sens loin. Merci d’apaiser mon âme par Ton Esprit. Ton amour me comble. Ta grâce me relève. Je reconnais que Tu ne fais pas que donner le réconfort — Tu es le Consolateur. Tu es la Source d’un vrai réconfort, profond, réel, qui satisfait le cœur, l’esprit et l’âme, comme personne ni rien d’autre.

Aujourd’hui, je reçois Ta paix par la foi — non pas comme le monde la donne, mais comme Toi seul peux la donner. Merci pour Ton shalom, qui restaure la plénitude en moi. Façonne-moi à Ton image, plein(e) de compassion et de grâce. Aide-moi à consoler les autres avec le même réconfort dont Tu me bénis. Ouvre des portes pour que je partage l’amour que Tu déverses dans mon cœur.

Je T’aime, Seigneur. Tu es mon repos, mon refuge, ma joie. Au nom de Jésus je Te prie et Te rends grâce, Père. Amen.

Que le réconfort de Dieu apaise ton âme, restaure ton cœur et t’attire toujours plus près de Lui — Celui dont la beauté dépasse les mots — maintenant et pour toujours.

Merci d’avoir médité avec moi sur le Seigneur notre Consolateur. Ceci est le 8ᵉ article de la série QUI EST DIEU ? Une série pour redécouvrir le seul vrai Dieu vivant – et qui vous êtes à cause de Lui.

Nous sommes en route vers une confiance plus profonde dans le caractère de Dieu, en Lui permettant de façonner notre identité en Christ, et en y répondant par la foi.

Si tu ne les as pas encore lus, tu peux consulter les précédents épisodes de la série :

* DIEU EST BEAU

* DIEU EST IMMUABLE (INCHANGEANT)

* DIEU EST AMOUR

* DIEU EST UN FEU DÉVORANT🔥

* DIEU INFINI

* DIEU EST SAINT

* QUI EST DIEU ?

As-tu été béni par notre Dieu consolateur à travers ce post ? Partage-le avec un(e) ami(e) ! Copie le lien et envoie-le à quelqu’un autour de toi.

Pour les auditeurs du podcast, n’hésite pas à partager ces épisodes de LIFE ON MISSION sur Apple Podcasts et Spotify.

Que Dieu te bénisse pour ACCUEILLIR QUI IL EST, ALIGNER TON IDENTITÉ EN LUI, et EXPÉRIMENTER UNE VIE PLUS ABONDANTE AVEC LUI. Que Dieu te bénisse aujourd’hui.

This free devotional comes from my book, Thank You, Father: 30 Days of Gratitude, Prayer, & Praise - Men’s Devotional, available on Amazon: Ebook, $7.99 (or $0.00 for Kindle Unlimited) or Paperback, $13.99. If you’ve been blessed by this devotional, you can leave a review on Amazon—that would bless me.

Day 22: Blessed in the Beloved

“Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us in Christ with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly places, even as he chose us in him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and blameless before him. In love he predestined us for adoption to himself as sons through Jesus Christ, according to the purpose of his will, to the praise of his glorious grace, with which he has blessed us in the Beloved. In him we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of our trespasses, according to the riches of his grace, which he lavished upon us, in all wisdom and insight.”

Ephesians 1:3-8

“And God is able to make all grace abound to you, so that having all sufficiency in all things at all times, you may abound in every good work.”

2 Corinthians 9:8

“For the LORD God is a sun and shield; the LORD bestows favor and honor. No good thing does He withhold from those who walk uprightly. O LORD of hosts, blessed is the one who trusts in you!”

Psalm 84:11-12

Devotional

These passages reveal God's generous nature as the Giver of all that is good.

In Christ, we are recipients of every spiritual blessing, adopted into God's family by His grace.

God chose us, that we may be “holy and blameless” before Him, and blessed us in Christ, the Beloved (Eph. 1:4, 6).

Through faith in Christ, we have been redeemed, forgiven, and united to God.

In love, our God set us apart for Himself; He gives our lives purpose.

In all things He grants each of us the grace we need to abound in every good work He uniquely set apart for us to do with Him.

Blessed is the one who places his trust in the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Source of grace, favor, and honor.

Men of God

Gratitude is the right response to God’s blessing.

We are among the most blessed in all creation.

We have been chosen, redeemed, and adopted by God through Jesus Christ, not by merit but by grace.

We are known by the Lord Most High, even regarded by Him as sons.

We get to know and trust the Creator of heaven and earth, as our Lord and God.

In Christ, we truly have been lavished with spiritual blessings. We are partakers in His grace daily.

With His Spirit in us, we are empowered to bless others as we have been blessed by God and embrace a lifestyle of thanksgiving and contentment.

We can find assurance in God's promise to make grace abound to us, not only for our sake, but for the sake of Christ’s Kingdom and His Bride, our family in faith.

Application

Today, contemplate the reality that God has blessed you spiritually and materially, eternally and temporarily. Consider how God’s grace enriches your life and empowers you to abound in every good work that He prepared in advance for you. Remember, His kindness is meant to lead us to repentance.

Turn to the Lord in prayer, give thanks to God for the good gifts He’s given you. Remember, “the gifts and the calling of God are irrevocable” (Rom. 11:29). In faith, ask the LORD for the wisdom you need to use your God-given gifts and embrace your God-given calling to glorify God and bless others. Listen and respond to the Lord, remembering His willingness to bless those who trust in Him and walk uprightly.

Prayer

Holy Father,

Thank You for choosing, adopting, and redeeming me through Christ. Relationship with You is a priceless gift.

Your grace lavished upon me through Jesus is a blessing that surpasses my understanding.

Thank You Father, for Your Son.

In Christ I have spiritual riches and life more abundantly. Hallelujah! It is an honor to be adopted into Your family as a son.

Thank You for blessing me with Your Spirit. Thank You for blessing me to build up Your Bride, my family-in-faith.

May I honor You in my work, worship, and service. May I find my greatest satisfaction in You, Lord, and look forward to sharing Your goodness with others.

I pray for wisdom to steward the gifts and calling You have given me, for the sake of Your children and Your Kingdom.

In Jesus' name, I trust and pray. Amen.

Divine Dialogue

Pause, Listen, Record, and Respond

1 Samuel 3:10

Klein, Tanner. "Day 22: Blessed in the Beloved." Thank You, Father: 30 Days of Gratitude, Prayer, & Praise, KLEINHAUS Books, 2024, pp. 181-187.

*Thank You, Father: 30 Days of Gratitude, Prayer, & Praise - Men’s Devotional is available on Amazon: Ebook, $7.99 (or $0.00 for Kindle Unlimited) or Paperback, $13.99.* If you’ve been blessed by this devotional, you can leave a review on Amazon—that would bless me.

🇫🇷 La traduction française

Jour 22 : Bénis dans le Bien-Aimé

« Béni soit le Dieu et Père de notre Seigneur Jésus-Christ, qui nous a bénis de toute bénédiction spirituelle dans les lieux célestes en Christ. En Lui, Dieu nous a élus avant la fondation du monde, pour que nous soyons saints et sans défaut devant Lui. Dans Son amour, Il nous a prédestinés par Jésus-Christ à être adoptés, selon le dessein bienveillant de Sa volonté, pour célébrer la gloire de Sa grâce qu’Il nous a accordée en Son bien-aimé. En Lui, par Son sang, nous avons la rédemption, le pardon des fautes, selon la richesse de Sa grâce, que Dieu a répandue abondamment sur nous en toute sagesse et intelligence. »

Éphésiens 1:3–8

« Dieu a le pouvoir de vous combler de toutes sortes de grâces, afin que, possédant toujours en toutes choses de quoi satisfaire à tous vos besoins, vous ayez encore en abondance pour toute œuvre bonne. »

2 Corinthiens 9:8

« Car l’Éternel Dieu est un soleil et un bouclier, l’Éternel donne la grâce et la gloire, Il ne refuse aucun bien à ceux qui marchent dans l’intégrité. Éternel des armées, heureux l’homme qui se confie en Toi ! »

Psaume 84:11–12

Méditation

Ces passages révèlent la nature généreuse de Dieu en tant que Donateur de tout ce qui est bon.

En Christ, nous sommes bénéficiaires de chaque bénédiction spirituelle, adoptés dans la famille de Dieu par Sa grâce.

Dieu nous a choisis pour que nous soyons « saints et sans défaut » devant Lui, et Il nous a bénis en Christ, le Bien-Aimé (Éph. 1:4, 6).

Par la foi en Christ, nous avons été rachetés, pardonnés et unis à Dieu.

Dans Son amour, notre Dieu nous a mis à part pour Lui-même ; Il donne un but à nos vies.

En toutes choses, Il nous accorde la grâce nécessaire pour abonder dans chaque bonne œuvre qu'Il a préparée d'avance pour nous.

Heureux celui qui place sa confiance dans le Dieu et Père de notre Seigneur Jésus-Christ, la Source de la grâce, de la faveur et de l'honneur.

Pour Les Hommes de Dieu

La gratitude est la réponse appropriée aux bénédictions de Dieu.

Nous sommes parmi les plus bénis de toute la création.

Nous avons été choisis, rachetés et adoptés par Dieu par Jésus-Christ, non par mérite mais par grâce.

Nous sommes connus du Très-Haut, même considérés par Lui comme des fils.

Nous avons le privilège de connaître et de faire confiance au Créateur du ciel et de la terre, comme notre Seigneur et notre Dieu.

En Christ, nous avons véritablement été comblés de bénédictions spirituelles. Nous sommes participants de Sa grâce chaque jour.

Avec Son Esprit en nous, nous sommes habilités à bénir les autres comme nous avons été bénis par Dieu et à adopter un style de vie de reconnaissance et de contentement.

Nous pouvons trouver l'assurance dans la promesse de Dieu de faire abonder la grâce envers nous, non seulement pour notre bien, mais pour le Royaume du Christ et Son Église, notre famille dans la foi.

Application

Aujourd'hui, contemplez la réalité que Dieu vous a bénis spirituellement et matériellement, éternellement et temporairement. Réfléchissez à la manière dont la grâce de Dieu enrichit votre vie et vous permet d'abonder dans chaque bonne œuvre qu'Il a préparée d'avance pour vous. Rappelez-vous, Sa bonté est destinée à nous conduire à la repentance.

Tournez-vous vers le Seigneur dans la prière, remerciez Dieu pour les bons dons qu'Il vous a donnés. Rappelez-vous, « les dons et l'appel de Dieu sont irrévocables » (Rom. 11:29). Par la foi, demandez à l'Éternel la sagesse dont vous avez besoin pour utiliser les dons que Dieu vous a donnés et embrasser votre appel divin pour glorifier Dieu et bénir les autres. Écoutez et répondez au Seigneur, en vous rappelant Sa volonté de bénir ceux qui se confient en Lui et marchent dans l'intégrité.

Prière

Père Saint,

Merci de m'avoir choisi, adopté et racheté par Christ. La relation avec Toi est un don inestimable.

Ta grâce déversée sur moi par Jésus est une bénédiction qui dépasse ma compréhension.

Merci, Père, pour Ton Fils.

En Christ, j'ai des richesses spirituelles et la vie en abondance. Alléluia ! C'est un honneur d'être adopté dans Ta famille en tant que fils.

Merci de m'avoir béni avec Ton Esprit. Merci de m'avoir béni pour édifier Ton Église, ma famille dans la foi.

Puisse-je T'honorer dans mon travail, mon adoration et mon service. Puisse-je trouver ma plus grande satisfaction en Toi, Seigneur, et attendre avec impatience de partager Ta bonté avec les autres.

Je prie pour la sagesse de gérer les dons et l'appel que Tu m'as donnés, pour le bien de Tes enfants et de Ton Royaume.

Au nom de Jésus, je me confie et je prie. Amen.

Dialogue Divin

Pause, Écoute, Note et Réponds

« Parle, Éternel, car Ton serviteur écoute. »

1 Samuel 3:10

🇫🇷 La traduction française de:

Klein, Tanner. "Day 22: Blessed in the Beloved." Thank You, Father: 30 Days of Gratitude, Prayer, & Praise, KLEINHAUS Books, 2024, pp. 181-187.

*Thank You, Father: 30 Days of Gratitude, Prayer, & Praise - Men’s Devotional est disponible sur Amazon : Ebook, 7,99 $ (ou 0,00 $ pour Kindle Unlimited) ou Broché, 13,99 $.* Si cette dévotion vous a été bénéfique, vous pouvez laisser un avis sur Amazon — cela me bénirait.

*La version biblique utilisée : Colombe (COL)

Here is some much needed news that should transform the way we live and experience the world today: By the grace of God manifest through Christ’s sinless life, atoning sacrifice, and resurrection from the dead, not only have we been set free from the PENALTY of our SINS, but with the help of the Holy Spirit, we are being set free from the POWER of SIN. Even more, we will be set free from the presence of sin and all it’s terrible consequences. This changes everything.

Welcome to Part 5 in the Victory in Christ series. We’re continuing our conversation on Embracing Christ's Victory and Your Identity in Him. This podcast-post is the third of three in a mini series of sorts. Through Christ, we will be set free from the presence of sin, and that’s the good news we’re exploring today.

In case you didn’t already get to read or listen, the podcast-post links for Parts 1-4 are attached below, with links to their Apple and Spotify podcasts.

Part 1 Our God makes Sons out of Slaves: The Victory in Christ Series Introduction

Click here for the Apple Podcast. Click here for Spotify.

Part 2 Embracing Christ's Victory and Your Identity in Him - Our God makes Sons out of Slaves

Click here for the Apple Podcast. Click here for the Spotify podcast.

Part 3 SET FREE from the PENALTY of our SIN through CHRIST

Click here for the Apple Podcast. Click here for the Spotify podcast.

Part 4 SET FREE from the POWER of SIN through CHRIST

Click here for the Apple Podcast. Click here for the Spotify podcast.

Let’s Start with Prayer

Lord God Almighty,

Open our eyes to see You rightly.

Your Word says “the eyes of the Lord run to and fro throughout the whole earth, to give strong support to those whose heart is blameless toward him (2 Chr. 16:9).”

We need Your strong support. So, search us, Lord, You know our hearts. Refine us. You know our wayward thoughts. In Your perfect love, highlight anything that doesn’t belong, any sin or foothold we’ve allowed to remain, that we may lay these things down and leave them in the past as You guide us in Your way and truth that truly lead to abundant life.

Teach us to joyfully repent, receive your forgiveness, forsake sin, and move forward with You as transformed people.

You are the Master. We are Your disciples. Teach us to walk with You, to talk with you, to do as you do, and learn from You.

We come to You, many of us, weary and weighed down. We trust You will give us rest as You promised, and refresh us with Your presence. In Your presence is fullness of joy. It’s an honor to draw near to You, knowing You draw near to us.

Help us to believe and receive who You are and what You did to set us free from the penalty of sin, the power of sin, and one day, even the presence of sin. King Jesus, You are victorious.

Thank You, Father, for making us new creations and giving us new life in Christ. Help us now, to receive Your truth and respond by faith! We pray in the beautiful name of Jesus. Amen.

We Will Be Set Free from the PRESENCE of SIN

What does this mean?

If you're in Christ:

* You will be like Jesus, sinless and pure.

* You will receive a glorified body free from our old sin nature.

* You will dwell in the new creation without death, pain, or sin.

* Your salvation includes freedom from sin’s presence forever.

How can we know this for sure? Let’s explore what God’s Word says and meditate on eight power-packed passages.

Truths to Inscribe on Your Heart

Truth #1: Revelation 21:3–4

“And I heard a loud voice from the throne saying, “Behold, the dwelling place of God is with man. He will dwell with them, and they will be his people, and God himself will be with them as their God. He will wipe away every tear from their eyes, and death shall be no more, neither shall there be mourning, nor crying, nor pain anymore, for the former things have passed away.”

Thank You, Lord! → In the new creation, sin, and all the effects of sin are gone. No more tears. No more death. No more mourning or crying or pain. No more sickness. No more achy joints. No more food allergies. No more theft. No more loss. No more exploitation. No more darkness. No more broken hearts. No more loneliness. No more rejection or harm or abuse. No more broken relationships. No more lies, mental illness, or sadness. No more addictions, corruption, fraud, evil, war, slavery, or human trafficking. No more bad news. All that’s been corrupted by sin will have passed away.

Truth #2: 1 John 3:2

“Beloved, we are God’s children now, and what we will be has not yet appeared; but we know that when he appears we shall be like him, because we shall see him as he is.”

Thank You, Lord! → We will be like Christ—pure, righteous, and sinless—with new bodies and eyes that truly see righty, unobstructed by sin.

Truth #3: Philippians 3:20–21

“But our citizenship is in heaven, and from it we await a Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ, who will transform our lowly body to be like his glorious body, by the power that enables him even to subject all things to himself.”

Thank You, Lord! → Jesus Christ will transform our lowly bodies to be like His. Like the shell of a seed is left behind while a new plant with new life emerges, we will have glorified bodies free from decay and without our old sin nature.

Truth #4: Romans 8:18–21

“For I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worth comparing with the glory that is to be revealed to us. For the creation waits with eager longing for the revealing of the sons of God. For the creation was subjected to futility, not willingly, but because of him who subjected it, in hope that the creation itself will be set free from its bondage to corruption and obtain the freedom of the glory of the children of God.”

Thank You, Lord! → We and creation will be fully freed from sin’s presence and corruption—more free and fully alive than we can possibly fathom.

Truth #5: Jude v.24

“Now to him who is able to keep you from stumbling and to present you blameless before the presence of his glory with great joy, to the only God, our Savior, through Jesus Christ our Lord, be glory, majesty, dominion, and authority, before all time and now and forever. Amen.”

Thank You, Lord! → Our Savior Jesus is willing and able to keep us from stumbling and welcome us into the presence of our glorious God with great joy: blameless, pure, and cleansed, with no stain of sin in sight.

Truth #6: Romans 13:11–12

“Besides this you know the time, that the hour has come for you to wake from sleep. For salvation is nearer to us now than when we first believed. The night is far gone; the day is at hand. So then let us cast off the works of darkness and put on the armor of light.”

Thank You, Lord! → It’s time to wake up and live in the light! It’s a gift to hear this reality today. Let’s cast off the works of darkness while there’s still time and put on the armor of light, listed in Ephesians 6!

Truth #7: Hebrews 9:28

“So Christ, having been offered once to bear the sins of many, will appear a second time, not to deal with sin but to save those who are eagerly waiting for him.”

Thank You, Lord! → Sin is dealt with already. Jesus is coming again to save those eagerly waiting for Him and deliver them from sin’s presence.

Truth #8: 1 Corinthians 15:50–53

“Flesh and blood cannot inherit the kingdom of God, nor does the perishable inherit the imperishable. Behold! I tell you a mystery. We shall not all sleep, but we shall all be changed, in a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trumpet. For the trumpet will sound, and the dead will be raised imperishable, and we shall be changed. For this perishable body must put on the imperishable, and this mortal body must put on immortality.”

Thank You, Lord! → As a seed “dies” and new life emerges, so we will emerge transformed, so we may be in His holy presence and live. We will live forever, unaffected by sin, decay, or death.

Now, let’s take a moment to let these truths from God’s Word move from our heads to our hearts. Inscribing these truths on the tablet of our hearts takes time.

We Will Be Set Free from the PRESENCE of SIN.

All praise to our victorious Savior, the Lion of the tribe of Judah, the Lamb of God who takes away the sins of the world.

No more sickness. No more tears. No more pain. No more sin.

The Lord has conquered, and so will we.

We get to pledge our allegiance to Him.

A Final Faith-Filled Exhortation

Friends, while the liar and enemy of our souls wants to keep us living like slaves, hiding our sins, buried under the weight of our sin and shame, Jesus our victorious Savior has set us free. Temptations will inevitably come, but we get to face them with Jesus, the One who is able and willing to save us. We can simply call upon the name of Jesus and be sustained and delivered. It’s our mighty-to-save Savior who invites us:

28 “Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. 29 Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.” - Matthew 11:28-29

The battle belongs to the Lord. It’s already won. Who is like the Lord? There is no one, no one like our God. If Our God is for us, who can be against us?! Who?

Through this Victory in Christ series, “Slaves to Sons,” we are asking, seeking, and knocking together as Jesus instructs us in Matthew 7:7-8, trusting that our great God will give, reveal, and open doors. We will continue to discover how to get freedom from sexual immorality, addiction, and shame as we embrace our identity as a beloved sons and daughters of our Father in Heaven.

Stayed tuned for more to come. Have you been blessed by this podcast-post? I hope so! If you’ve been blessed, pass that blessing on to a friend. If the Lord made an impact on you, He may powerfully impact them too. Leave a comment. You can also share this using the QR code below. May God bless you!

This series is inspired by seeking the Lord in prayer and in the Word, and by walking alongside other men who are struggling or have struggled under the immense weight of shame and the consequences of addiction and sexual immorality, etc.

The Lord has revealed to me how necessary it is to bring these topics into the light, especially so amid our hyper-sexualized Western world, media, and culture.

Victory in Christ belongs to those who trust in Jesus, the Lamb of God who was slain. Real freedom from slavery to sexual immorality, addiction, & shame is available and possible through Him.

Welcome to Part 4 in the Victory in Christ series. We’re continuing our conversation on Embracing Christ's Victory and Your Identity in Him. This podcast-post is the second of three in a mini series of sorts. Through Christ, we are being set free from the power of sin, and that’s the good news we’re exploring today.

In case you didn’t already get to read or listen, the podcast-post links for Parts 1-3 are attached below.

Part 1 Our God makes Sons out of Slaves: The Victory in Christ Series Introduction

Click here for the Apple Podcast. Click here for Spotify.

Part 2 Embracing Christ's Victory and Your Identity in Him

Click here for the Apple Podcast. Click here for the Spotify podcast.

Part 3 SET FREE from the PENALTY of our SIN through CHRIST

Click here for the Apple Podcast. Click here for the Spotify podcast.

By the grace of God manifest through Christ’s sinless life, atoning sacrifice, and resurrection from the dead, not only have we been Set Free from the PENALTY of our SIN, but also with the help of the Holy Spirit, We Are Being Set Free from the POWER of SIN.

That is exactly what we’re about to explore now. On to Part 4!

Let’s Pray

Lord God Almighty,

Thank You for setting us free from the penalty of our sin.

Thank You for continuing to set us free from the power of sin.

Thank You for the coming day when we will be in Your holy presence, face to face, free from even the presence of sin.

Because You overcame and live, so we overcome through You.

Thank You for abiding in us who believe. Teach us to abide in You and remain in Your love.

Help us to believe, receive, and respond to the reality of Your victory over sin, death, and the devil.

As You strengthened Daniel to remain resolved and faithful, even courageous in the face of pressure and opposition, empower us likewise to stay resolved in faith and faithful in little, taking courage even in the face of pressure to lose heart or hope.

By Your Spirit, may we hear the truths from Your Word listed ahead and truly respond in joy-filled obedience, trusting You to work in and through us and believing we really are who You say we are, more than conquerors in Christ who loves us.

We pray all this in the name of our Good Shepherd, Jesus Christ.

Amen.

What does Jesus’ Victory over Sin mean for Me?

Through Christ, we have been set free from the penalty of our sins, namely, death and eternal separation from our loving God and Creator.

Through Christ, we are being set free from the power of sin, temptations included.

Through Christ, we will be set free from the presence of sin, once and for all.

Hallelujah! Powerful, right?! This is such good news.

It’s time to reinforce our beliefs with truth!

We Are Being Set Free from the POWER of SIN

What does this mean?

If you're in Christ:

* You're no longer a slave to sin. Sin is no longer your master. Jesus is your Lord, He is your master.

* You're being transformed daily by the Spirit.

* God’s grace trains you to live in a godly way.

* The power of sin is actively being broken in your life.

How can we know this for sure? Let’s look at what God’s Word says.

Truths to Inscribe on Your Heart

Truth #1: Romans 6:6–7

“We know that our old self was crucified with him in order that the body of sin might be brought to nothing, so that we would no longer be enslaved to sin. For one who has died has been set free from sin.”

God be praised! → In Christ, we are no longer slaves to sin’s power. Instead, we are new creations in Christ, overcoming through His power.

Truth #2: Romans 6:11–14

“So you also must consider yourselves dead to sin and alive to God in Christ Jesus.

Let not sin therefore reign in your mortal body, to make you obey its passions. Do not present your members to sin as instruments for unrighteousness, but present yourselves to God as those who have been brought from death to life, and your members to God as instruments for righteousness. For sin will have no dominion over you, since you are not under law but under grace.”

God be praised! → Jesus reigns! Through Him, sin no longer reigns unrestricted in our bodies or lives when we embrace Jesus as our Lord, enthroned in our hearts. Through Jesus, we’re dead to the power of temptation and addictions. God’s grace empowers new obedience that leads to abundant life with Jesus.

Truth #3: Galatians 5:16

“But I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh.”

God be praised! → The Spirit enables us to overcome sinful desires, no matter how strong. We get to practice walking by the Spirit, submitted to Him, as beloved sons and daughters of the King.

Truth #4: Galatians 2:20

“I have been crucified with Christ. It is no longer I who live, but Christ who lives in me. And the life I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me.”

God be praised! → Christ’s life in us empowers us to live free from our old bondage to sin. We get to live by faith in Jesus, the proven Lover of our souls.

Truth #5: Colossians 3:5–10

“Put to death therefore what is earthly in you: sexual immorality, impurity, passion, evil desire, and covetousness, which is idolatry. On account of these the wrath of God is coming. In these you too once walked, when you were living in them. But now you must put them all away: anger, wrath, malice, slander, and obscene talk from your mouth. Do not lie to one another, seeing that you have put off the old self with its practices and have put on the new self, which is being renewed in knowledge after the image of its creator.”

God be praised! → We can cut off sin by the Spirit. Our old self and habits are dead. We’re new in Christ, being renewed daily as we renew your mind in God’s truth. We get to walk in newness of life! It’s a new beginning with God!

Truth #6: 2 Corinthians 3:17–18

“Now the Lord is the Spirit, and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom. And we all, with unveiled face, beholding the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into the same image from one degree of glory to another. For this comes from the Lord who is the Spirit.”

God be praised! → Freedom and transformation from sin’s power comes through the Spirit of God. This is the beauty of sanctification. We are being transformed more and more into the likeness of Jesus through the daily work of the Holy Spirit.

Truth #7: Titus 2:11–12

“For the grace of God has appeared, bringing salvation for all people, training us to renounce ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live self-controlled, upright, and godly lives in the present age.”

God be praised! → God’s grace not only saves—it trains us to truly live freely and fully, like Jesus.

Truth #8: 1 Corinthians 10:13

“No temptation has overtaken you that is not common to man. God is faithful, and he will not let you be tempted beyond your ability, but with the temptation he will also provide the way of escape, that you may be able to endure it.”

God be praised! → Sin no longer has uncontested power—God provides the way of escape. We can cry out to Jesus, and we will be delivered from temptation.

Truth #9: 1 John 3:6, 9-10

“No one who abides in him keeps on sinning; no one who keeps on sinning has either seen him or known him... No one born of God makes a practice of sinning, for God's seed abides in him; and he cannot keep on sinning because he has been born of God. By this it is evident who are the children of God, and who are the children of the devil: whoever does not practice righteousness is not of God, nor is the one who does not love his brother.”

God be praised! → Those who abide in Christ don’t remain under sin’s rule. As we experientially know the Lord, He truly transforms us. Our God is faithful to deliver us from habitual sin and continued rebellion against Him, and He’s faithful to empower us to walk uprightly, to love our neighbor, and to represent Christ to the world living in darkness. Thank You, God, for the truth.

Truth #10: Philippians 2:12–13

“Therefore, my beloved, as you have always obeyed, so now, not only as in my presence but much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling, for it is God who works in you, both to will and to work for his good pleasure.”

God be praised! → Our God is for us. He actively works in and through us, giving us the desire and the ability to do what brings Him joy, to walk in freedom and fear of the Lord—free from the fear of man.

Let’s take a moment to let these truths from God’s Word resonate within us.

We Are Being Set Free from the POWER of SIN.

All glory to our awesome God in heaven, to Emmanuel, our God with us.

How can we stay the same? How can we not praise the name of the Lord our God?

We Will Be Set Free from the PRESENCE of SIN

What does this mean?

If you're in Christ:

* You will be like Jesus, sinless and pure.

* You will receive a glorified body free from our old sin nature.

* You will dwell in a new heaven and earth without death, pain, or sin.

* Your salvation includes freedom from sin’s presence forever.

How can we know this for sure? We’re going to look at what God’s Word says about this in our next podcast-post.

The Faith-Filled Final Exhortation

Friends, while the defeated deceiver wants to keep us buried under the weight of our sin and shame, living like slaves, hidden in the dark, Jesus, our victorious Savior has set us free. The victory in ours through Christ alone. We get to overcome with Him, through Him. In His love for us, He invites us:

28 “Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.

29 Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart,

and you will find rest for your souls.” - Matthew 11:28-29

Through this Victory in Christ series, “Slaves to Sons,” we are asking, seeking, and knocking together as Jesus instructs us in Matthew 7:7-8, trusting that our great God will give, reveal, and open doors. We will continue to discover how to get freedom from sexual immorality, addiction, and shame as we embrace our identity as a beloved sons and daughters of our Father in Heaven.

Our God is for us, who can be against us?!

Stayed tuned for more to come. Has the Lord impacted you through this podcast-post? If so, share it with a friend. Remind yourself and tell someone that you are being set free from the power of sin through Christ! May God bless you!

This series is inspired by seeking the Lord in prayer and in the Word, and by walking alongside other men who are struggling or have struggled under the immense weight of shame and the consequences of struggling with lust, addiction, porn, masturbation, etc.

The Lord has revealed to me how necessary it is to bring these topics into the light, especially so amid our hyper-sexualized Western world, media, and culture.

Victory in Christ belongs to those who trust in Jesus, the Lamb of God who was slain. Real freedom from slavery to sexual immorality, addiction, & shame is available and possible through Him.

Welcome to Part 3 in the Victory in Christ series. We’re continuing our conversation on Embracing Christ's Victory and Your Identity in Him. This podcast-post is the first of three in a mini series of sorts. Through Christ, we have been set free from the penalty of our sins, and that’s the good news we’re exploring today.

In the very first part of this Victory in Christ series on our God making Sons out of Slaves, we covered a few big topics most avoid and asked some real questions.

One, a testimony that needs to be shared.

Two, the plague of lust and stronghold of sexual immorality, including some weighty statistics on the gravity of the issue at hand.

Three, the pressing need to pray, so we prayed together.

We asked the big questions: What’s the solution? How can we truly be set free?

And, we highlighted a non-exhaustive list of Biblical ways we can truly walk in the victory that Christ desires for us, the victory that He secured for His sons and daughters through His sinless life, sacrificial death, and triumphant resurrection.

Ultimately, it requires love for God and for others.

So, now what? Does it just depend on self-correction? Do we just need to make it happen and will ourselves to freedom? How can we truly overcome strong temptations or addiction or shame from past sins?

There is good news.

Our God makes sons out of slaves. He makes new creations in Christ Jesus.

If you’d like to explore this conversation more, the link to the the Victory in Christ series Introduction is attached below. It’s also available on Apple Podcasts and Spotify.

In the second part of this Victory in Christ series, we turned our focus to Embracing Christ's Victory and Your Identity in Him.

First, we asked the question: How can we better embrace our true identity as Sons and Daughters of our Father in Heaven?

We must Embrace Christ’s Victory over Sin!

We discussed, What’s the Big Deal About Sin? and followed with a deep dive in response to a very big question: Why Did Jesus Come?

This conversation on why Jesus came led us to a powerful and personal call to action: You Choose Your Master: Either Sin or Jesus.

If Jesus is your Lord, He is your master. Sin is no longer your master. You don’t owe sin a thing. You don’t have to listen to sin anymore. You don’t have to do what your flesh craves.

Because Jesus is Victorious, You are Victorious in Him.

If you’d like to explore this conversation more, the link to Part 2 is attached below. It’s also available on Apple Podcasts and Spotify.

Before we finished with a Faith-Filled Final Exhortation, we asked the question, What does Jesus’ Victory over Sin mean for Me?

That is the question we are going to explore now! Let’s jump into Part 3!

What does Jesus’ Victory over Sin mean for Me?

Through Christ, we have been set free from the penalty of our sins, namely, death and eternal separation from our loving God and Creator.

Through Christ, we are being set free from the power of sin, temptations included.

Through Christ, we will be set free from the presence of sin, once and for all.

Powerful, right? I need to hear that again. Through Christ, we have been set free from the penalty of our sins, we are being set free from the power of sin, and we will be set free from the presence of sin, once and for all. Hallelujah! That is such good news.

It’s time to reinforce our beliefs with truth!

Let’s Pray

Lord God Almighty,

You are faithful and able to give us ears to hear, eyes to see, and a heart and mind to perceive and understand. May Your truth resonate within us.

Keep us from disregarding Your life-giving words and ways. Lord Jesus, You are the Way, the Truth, and the Life. No one comes to the Father except through You.

Thank You for guiding us into all truth by Your Holy Spirit. Help us to believe and receive who You are and what You did to set us free from the penalty of sin, the power of sin, and one day, even the presence of sin.

Thank You for Your presence with us, all our days, even in the midst of temptations and dark valleys in life. You overcame sin, death, and the devil. You resisted temptation to the point of death, even death on the cross for us.

Your love and loyalty to us is proven and sure. You’re sacrifice for us and resurrection changes everything. Thank You, Father, for making us new people and giving us new life as new creations in Christ. Help us now, to receive Your truth and respond by faith! We pray in the awesome name of Jesus.

Amen.

First, We Have Been Set Free from the PENALTY of our SIN.

What does this mean?

If you're in Christ:

* You're justified (declared not guilty),

* The record of debt is canceled,

* The penalty is paid in full by Jesus,

* You are no longer condemned, and

* You’ve passed from death to life.

How can we know this for sure? Let’s look at what God’s Word says.

Truths to Inscribe on Your Heart

Truth #1: Romans 8:1–2

“There is therefore now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus. For the law of the Spirit of life has set you free in Christ Jesus from the law of sin and death.”

Hallelujah! → Because of Christ’s perfect life, sacrificial death, and triumphant resurrection, we have freedom from the penalty of our sins. There’s now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus.

Truth #2: Romans 3:23–25

“For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, and are justified by his grace as a gift, through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus, whom God put forward as a propitiation by his blood, to be received by faith.”

Hallelujah! → To be justified is to be declared righteous. We who have trusted in Jesus as our Savior and Lord are justified by his grace as a gift. What is propitiation? It’s God's wrath against sin satisfied. Jesus received the just judgement we deserved.

Truth #3: Romans 5:8–9

“But God shows his love for us in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us. Since, therefore, we have now been justified by his blood, much more shall we be saved by him from the wrath of God.”

Hallelujah! → Jesus is our propitiation! There it is again. Justification through Christ's blood saves us from God’s wrath—the penalty of sin.

Truth #4: Romans 6:23

“For the wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.”

Hallelujah! → The penalty, or "wages" to be paid for our sins, is death. In Christ, we've received life. If you’re in Christ, that abundant life with Christ has already begun. You get to live daily in close relationship with the Lover of your soul, your Maker, the Creator of heaven and earth. You get to be known by God and loved by Him in ways you can experience and understand. You get to know Him more and more, day by day. That is such an awesome privilege, no amount of words can do it justice.

Truth #5: Colossians 2:13–14

“And you, who were dead in your trespasses and the uncircumcision of your flesh, God made alive together with him, having forgiven us all our trespasses, by canceling the record of debt that stood against us with its legal demands. This he set aside, nailing it to the cross.”

Hallelujah! → We were dead in our sins, but God forgave us and resurrected us to new life with Christ, just as He was raised to new life. By God’s grace, the legal penalty and debt of our sins are canceled—nailed to the cross. Amen!

Truth #6: Galatians 3:13

“Christ redeemed us from the curse of the law by becoming a curse for us—for it is written, ‘Cursed is everyone who is hanged on a tree’— so that in Christ Jesus the blessing of Abraham might come to the Gentiles, so that we might receive the promised Spirit through faith.”

Hallelujah! → Jesus bore the penalty (the curse), so we are redeemed from it. As though that wasn’t already merciful enough, God made a way for us to receive the blessing of the promised Holy Spirit through faith and be welcomed into the covenant family of God! Who is like the Lord our God?!

Truth #7: Isaiah 53:5–6

“But he [Jesus] was pierced for our transgressions; he was crushed for our iniquities; upon him was the chastisement that brought us peace, and with his wounds we are healed.All we like sheep have gone astray; we have turned—every one—to his own way; and the LORD has laid on him the iniquity of us all.”

Hallelujah! → In love for us, Jesus took the punishment we deserved. The reality is that we all have willingly rebelled against, disobeyed, and overstepped God’s good commands. Countless times, we’ve all consciously chosen to go our own way, rather than going God’s life-giving way. Only Jesus Christ of Nazareth perfectly fulfilled God’s commands. He alone is our substitution, the only one who could truly take our place as the sinless Lamb of God. So, we can put our full trust in Him. We can depend on Jesus completely for our salvation. That is good news I need to hear again and again.

Truth #8: John 5:24

“Truly, truly, I say to you, whoever hears my word and believes him who sent me has eternal life. He does not come into judgment, but has passed from death to life.”

Hallelujah! → Faith in Christ leads to eternal life with Him, because Jesus already took our judgement upon Himself.

Truth #9: 1 Peter 2:24

“He himself bore our sins in his body on the tree, that we might die to sin and live to righteousness. By his wounds you have been healed.”

Hallelujah! → Christ physically bore the weight of our sins and their consequences so we can choose life over death, hating what God hates, namely, sin, and loving what God loves, what is true, honorable, just, pure, lovely, commendable, excellent, and worthy of praise (Phil. 4:8).

Take a moment to let these truths from God’s Word sink into your soul.

We Have Been Set Free from the PENALTY of our SIN.

That changes everything. All glory to our beautiful Savior and Lord of all.

Who is like the Lord our God? How can we not celebrate what He has done?

Second, We Are Being Set Free from the POWER of SIN

We’re excited to explore this next in our upcoming LIFE ON MISSION podcast-post.

After that, we’ll look to dive into the glorious reality that We WILL BE Set Free from the PRESENCE of SIN.

A Final Faith-Filled Exhortation

Friends, while the deceiver wants to keep us buried under the weight of our sin and shame, hidden in the dark, Jesus our victorious Savior invites us:

28 “Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.

29 Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart,

and you will find rest for your souls.” - Matthew 11:28-29

Through this Victory in Christ series, “Slaves to Sons,” we are asking, seeking, and knocking together as Jesus instructs us in Matthew 7:7-8, trusting that our great God will give, reveal, and open doors. We will continue to discover how to get freedom from sexual immorality, addiction, and shame as we embrace our identity as a beloved sons and daughters of our Father in Heaven.

Our God is for us, who can be against us!

Stayed tuned for more to come. Have you been blessed by this podcast-post? I hope so! If so, please share this with a friend if the Lord made an impact on you through it. May God bless you!

This series is inspired by seeking the Lord in prayer and in the Word, and by walking alongside other men who are struggling or have struggled under the immense weight of shame and the consequences of struggling with lust, addiction, porn, masturbation, etc.

The Lord has revealed to me how necessary it is to bring these topics into the light, especially so amid our hyper-sexualized Western world, media, and culture.

Victory in Christ belongs to those who trust in Jesus, the Lamb of God who was slain. Real freedom from slavery to sexual immorality, addiction, & shame is available and possible through Him.

In the first part of this Victory in Christ series on our God making Sons out of Slaves, we covered several key topics.

One, a testimony that needs to be shared.

Two, the plague of lust and stronghold of sexual immorality, including some weighty statistics on the gravity of the issue at hand.

Three, the pressing need to pray, so we prayed together.

We asked the big questions: What’s the solution? How can we truly be set free?

And, we highlighted a non-exhaustive list of Biblical ways we can truly walk in the victory that Christ desires for us, the victory that He secured for His sons and daughters through His sinless life, sacrificial death, and triumphant resurrection.

Ultimately, it requires love for God and for others.

So, now what? Does it just depend on self-correction? Do we just need to make it happen and will ourselves to freedom? How can we truly overcome strong temptations or addiction or shame from past sins?

There is good news.

Our God makes sons out of slaves. He makes new creations in Christ Jesus.

If you’d like to explore this conversation more, the link to the the Victory in Christ series Introduction is attached below. It’s also available on Apple Podcasts and Spotify.

Our undefeated God is for us! Who can be against us?!

Now, let’s jump into Part 2!

How can we better embrace our true identity as Sons and Daughters of our Father in Heaven?

Remember the non-exhaustive list of Biblical ways we can truly walk in the victory that Christ desires for us from the Victory in Christ series Introduction? These are powerful ways we can practice walking with Jesus, His way, by the power of the Holy Spirit abiding in all of us who are in Christ. We’re going to dive into the nitty gritty of these practices in coming posts.

It’s worth noting that the practice of walking with Jesus, His way, guided by His Spirit, is of course in stark contrast to going our own way, the way of sin—the world’s way.

But before we dive further into what is needed to truly walk in freedom,

We must Embrace Christ’s Victory over Sin!

This is absolutely central to our identity in Christ. It has everything to do with who we were, who we are in Christ, and who we will be.

Jesus’ victory over sin, death, and the deceiver is worth celebrating. This is why we remember and celebrate Easter. It has everything to do with our daily life.

More on this to come.

But first, why should we embrace Christ’s victory over sin, in particular?

What’s the Big Deal About Sin?

There are a lot of things wrong in the world, whether political, social, economic, religious, or otherwise. Jesus Himself addressed all kinds of these issues and more.

In His day, among other things, many people expected Messiah Jesus to deal with the issue of Roman occupation and liberate Israel from political oppression. Some expected Him to restore Israel to its former glory. Many expected Him to reign as king, addressing corruption, exploitation and injustice, religious and economic alike.

So, what’s at the root of these evils?

Is it the bad governance? Is it one view over another? Is it the Roman exploitation or the corrupt religious leaders? Is it primarily economic or is it religious or is it social? Is it a corrupt system or those corrupted by it?

What was it that Jesus the Messiah came to resolve?

That leads us to a big question.

Why Did Jesus Come?

Let’s be real. No one’s born righteous.

All are born into sin, heavy laden with a built-in sin nature and all kinds of sinful desires. It’s too bad, but it’s reality. We’re born into slavery, that is, slavery to sin, and sin is a terrible master. Sin is serious. That is bad news.

But, there is very good news.

In His great love for us, Jesus came to save people from their sins (Matt. 1:21, 1 Tim. 1:15, John 1:29, Heb. 9:24-26) and bear our iniquities (Isa. 53:4-6). Jesus came to preach the Kingdom of God (Mark 1:14-15), call sinners to repentance (Luke 5:31-32), and lay down His life as a ransom for many (Mark 10:45). Jesus came to destroy the devil’s works (1 John 3:8), break down the dividing walls between us and God (Eph. 2:12-14, Matt. 27:51), and make a way for all nations to be reconciled to God (John 12:32, Revelation 7:9–10). Jesus came to make us righteous (2 Cor. 5:21) and sanctified (Heb. 10:4-7, 9-10, 1 Thes. 4:3-8).

As we embrace who Jesus is and what He has done, we can better embrace our identity in Him. What Christ accomplished has everything to do with Christ in you, working in you and through you through His Spirit.

Don’t just take my word for it. See for yourself! Let’s reinforce our faith and support the reality of this Good News with truths from God’s Word.

Jesus came to save people from their sins

Let’s look at the evidence for this.

In Matthew 1:21, it was prophesied to Joseph about his pregnant wife Mary and the son in her womb:

21 She will bear a son, and you shall call his name Jesus, for he will save his people from their sins.”

Paul says in 1 Timothy 1:15,

15 The saying is trustworthy and deserving of full acceptance, that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners, of whom I am the foremost.

As recorded in the book of John 1:29, John the Baptist proclaimed aloud,

29 The next day he saw Jesus coming toward him, and said, “Behold, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world!

In Hebrews 9:24-26, it speaks of Jesus putting away sin by sacrificing Himself,

24 For Christ has entered, not into holy places made with hands, which are copies of the true things, but into heaven itself, now to appear in the presence of God on our behalf. 25 Nor was it to offer himself repeatedly, as the high priest enters the holy places every year with blood not his own, 26 for then he would have had to suffer repeatedly since the foundation of the world. But as it is, he has appeared once for all at the end of the ages to put away sin by the sacrifice of himself.

Jesus came to bear our iniquities

Let’s look at Isaiah 53:4-6,

4 Surely he has borne our griefs and carried our sorrows;yet we esteemed him stricken, smitten by God, and afflicted.5 But he was pierced for our transgressions; he was crushed for our iniquities;upon him was the chastisement that brought us peace, and with his wounds we are healed.6 All we like sheep have gone astray; we have turned—every one—to his own way;and the Lord has laid on him the iniquity of us all.

Jesus came to preach the Kingdom of God

Now, let’s look at how Jesus began His ministry based on Mark 1:14-15,

14 Now after John was arrested, Jesus came into Galilee, proclaiming the gospel of God, 15 and saying, “The time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God is at hand; repent and believe in the gospel.”

Jesus came to call sinners to repentance

Jesus was criticized by the pharisees and scribes for eating with unclean people, tax collectors and sinners, and in Luke 5:31-32, He responded to their criticism,

31 Jesus answered them, “Those who are well have no need of a physician, but those who are sick. 32 I have not come to call the righteous but sinners to repentance.”

Jesus came to lay down His life as a ransom for many

A couple of His disciples sought to rule with Jesus in His Kingdom, but Jesus set the record straight and told them why He had come, recorded in the book of Mark 10:45,

45 For even the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.”

Jesus came to destroy the devil’s works

Where can we find evidence for this? In 1 John 3:8, it says,

8 Whoever makes a practice of sinning is of the devil, for the devil has been sinning from the beginning. The reason the Son of God appeared was to destroy the works of the devil.

Jesus came to break down the dividing walls between us and God

It says in Ephesians 2:12-14,

12 “Remember that you were at that time separated from Christ, alienated from the commonwealth of Israel and strangers to the covenants of promise, having no hope and without God in the world. 13 But now in Christ Jesus you who once were far off have been brought near by the blood of Christ. 14 For he himself is our peace, who has made us both one and has broken down in his flesh the dividing wall of hostility.”

What other dividing wall did Jesus break down? Well, after Jesus laid down His life on the cross, it testifies in Matthew 27:51,

“the curtain of the temple was torn in two, from top to bottom. And the earth shook, and the rocks were split.”

This was the curtain that separated the people of Israel from God’s presence in the Holy of holies within the center of the temple. This was the set apart place only the High Priest could enter, and only once every year after making himself ritually pure, or else, he would die in the presence of God Most Holy. This curtain that created a distinct division between God and the people, was torn in two because of Christ’s sacrifice for our sins. And, not many days later, God would send His Spirit to abide in His people and make His dwelling place within those who believed in His Son Jesus. That is amazing news.

Jesus came to make a way for all nations to be reconciled to God

Speaking of the kind of death He was to die to make a way for us to God, Jesus Himself said,

32 “And I, when I am lifted up from the earth, will draw all people to myself.”

We also learn from John’s vision, recorded in the book of Revelation 7:9–10, who will be present at the end of time as we know it, gathered in the presence of God in heaven, having been saved and reconciled to God through Christ.

9 After this I looked, and behold, a great multitude that no one could number, from every nation, from all tribes and peoples and languages, standing before the throne and before the Lamb, clothed in white robes, with palm branches in their hands, 10 and crying out with a loud voice, “Salvation belongs to our God who sits on the throne, and to the Lamb!”

What about now, before the nations are gathered in unity praising God?

We can find strong encouragement in book of 2 Corinthians 5:17-20,

17 Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come. 18 All this is from God, who through Christ reconciled us to himself and gave us the ministry of reconciliation; 19 that is, in Christ God was reconciling the world to himself, not counting their trespasses against them, and entrusting to us the message of reconciliation. 20 Therefore, we are ambassadors for Christ, God making his appeal through us. We implore you on behalf of Christ, be reconciled to God.

Jesus came to make us righteous

In the very next verse, in 2 Corinthians 5:21, it says,

21 For our sake he made him to be sin who knew no sin, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God.

Jesus came to make us sanctified

We find a clear case for Christ’s perfect sacrifice to deal with the problem of sin in Hebrews 10:4-7,

4 For it is impossible for the blood of bulls and goats to take away sins.

5 Consequently, when Christ came into the world, he said,

“Sacrifices and offerings you have not desired, but a body have you prepared for me;6 in burnt offerings and sin offerings you have taken no pleasure.7 Then I said, ‘Behold, I have come to do your will, O God, as it is written of me in the scroll of the book.’”

We read in verses 9-10 that Jesus added,

“Behold, I have come to do your will.” He does away with the first in order to establish the second. 10 And by that will we have been sanctified through the offering of the body of Jesus Christ once for all.

From many Scriptures, we can better discern God’s will, but few are simpler than 1 Thessalonians 4:3,

3 For this is the will of God, your sanctification: that you abstain from sexual immorality;

God’s will for our sanctification continues in verses 4-8.

4 that each one of you know how to control his own body in holiness and honor, 5 not in the passion of lust like the Gentiles who do not know God; 6 that no one transgress and wrong his brother in this matter, because the Lord is an avenger in all these things, as we told you beforehand and solemnly warned you. 7 For God has not called us for impurity, but in holiness. 8 Therefore whoever disregards this, disregards not man but God, who gives his Holy Spirit to you.

We’ve been made righteous and sanctified through Christ, and by the power of His Spirit living in us, we get to actively pursue a life pleasing to God, seeking to walk in righteousness and embracing our God shaping us into the likeness of Jesus.

We’ll dive into this more in coming posts!

I hope your faith is strengthened by these truths.

It is clear: Jesus Christ came to definitively deal with the problem of sin so that we could be saved, forgiven, cleansed, transformed, and welcomed into a renewed relationship with our God and Father as His beloved children.

Jesus is victorious!

So now what?

You Choose Your Master: Either Sin or Jesus.

If Jesus is your Savior and Lord, then you are in Christ and He is in you through the Holy Spirit.

You are no longer a slave to sin.

Sin is no longer your master.

You don’t owe sin a thing. You don’t have to listen to sin anymore. You don’t have to do what your flesh craves.

Jesus is your Lord, He is your master.

If you have put your faith and trust in Jesus, you get Jesus as your Savior and your Lord. Both. Not one or the other. Jesus is your Savior and Master.

The more I embrace this reality, the more I experience true, lasting freedom in Christ.

I truly believe, the more you embrace this reality, the more you will experience true, lasting freedom in Christ.

With Jesus, comes His resurrection power and life, living in us, working through us. With Jesus, comes the power to say “No” to temptations to sin. Power to wait on the Lord and endure through trials. Power to be more than conquerors through Him who loves us.

As sons and daughters adopted into the family of God by grace through faith, we now get to share in the victory of Christ, the victorious life He secured for us through His sinless life, sacrificial death, and triumphant resurrection.

Because Jesus is Victorious, You are Victorious in Him.

So, what does all this mean for us?

What does Jesus’ Victory over Sin mean for Me?

Through Christ, we have been set free from the penalty of our sins, namely, death and eternal separation from our loving God and Creator.

Through Christ, we are being set free from the power of sin, temptations included.

Through Christ, we will be set free from the presence of sin, once and for all.

We’ll dive deeper into these in our next post to reinforce our beliefs with truth!

The Faith-Filled Final Exhortation

While the deceiver wants to keep us buried under the weight of our sin and shame, hidden in the dark, Jesus our victorious Savior invites us:

28 “Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.

29 Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart,

and you will find rest for your souls.” - Matthew 11:28-29

Through this Victory in Christ series, “Slaves to Sons,” we will ask, seek, and knock together as Jesus instructs us in Matthew 7:7-8, trusting that our great God will give, reveal, and open doors. We will continue to discover how to get freedom from sexual immorality, addiction, and shame as we embrace our identity as a beloved sons and daughters of our Father in Heaven.

Our God is for us, who can be against us!

Stayed tuned for more to come and please share this with a friend if the Lord made an impact on you through this. May God bless you!

This free devotional comes from my book, Thank You, Father: 30 Days of Gratitude, Prayer, & Praise - Men’s Devotional, available on Amazon: Ebook, $7.99 (or $0.00 for Kindle Unlimited) or Paperback, $13.99. If you’ve been blessed by this devotional, you can leave a review on Amazon—that would bless me.

Day 21: A Heart of Gratitude in Adversity

“But we have this treasure in jars of clay, to show that the surpassing power belongs to God and not to us. We are afflicted in every way, but not crushed; perplexed, but not driven to despair; persecuted, but not forsaken; struck down, but not destroyed.”

2 Corinthians 4:7-9

“Who shall bring any charge against God's elect? It is God who justifies. Who is to condemn? Christ Jesus is the one who died—more than that, who was raised—who is at the right hand of God, who indeed is interceding for us. Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or danger, or sword? As it is written, 'For your sake, we are being killed all the day long; we are regarded as sheep to be slaughtered.' No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us.”

Romans 8:33-37

“When the righteous cry for help, the LORD hears and delivers them out of all their troubles.”

Psalm 34:17

Devotional

In the face of adversity, these passages unveil a profound truth that God is present with us amid our trials.

Though we may be afflicted, perplexed, and persecuted, we are not crushed, driven to despair, or forsaken.

We have assurance that nothing can separate us from the love of Christ, and in all these trials, we are more than conquerors through Him who loves us.

We have been cleansed and made righteous by the blood of the Lamb who defeated sin, death, and the devil.

Those who have trusted in Jesus are helped by the Holy Spirit in all circumstances and reassured that when we cry for help, the LORD hears us.

He will deliver us from the temptation and troubles that come.

Our Defender is worthy to be praised.

Men of God

Adversity and trials reveal the tested genuineness of our faith.

Though times of trouble come and often expose our weak points, these verses remind us that in our weakness, God's power is best displayed.

We are not alone. Our Lord fights for us.

“We can confidently say, ‘The Lord is my helper; I will not fear; what can man do to me?’” (Heb. 13:6).

He hears our cries in faith and equips us with what we need to overcome any obstacle.

The Almighty God is with us, we have no need to fear uncertain future outcomes.

We are not defeated or abandoned. We are victorious in Christ and we will conquer through Him.

Application

How will you respond to adversity today? Start by writing Jesus’ promise on your heart, “behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age.” (Matt. 28:20). Remember, our Father is for us; He’s proven that. The Holy Spirit is in us. So, instead of succumbing to despair when facing challenges, lean on God's promised presence and victory through Christ.

Instead of grasping for control over your life, choose to thank God for His inseparable love. Cry out to the Lord in faith, trusting that He cares and knowing with full confidence that He is able to help you. By the power of His Spirit, practice rejoicing in the LORD when facing difficulties. Cultivate a heart of gratitude through adversity, confident that God’s power will sustain and uplift you.

Prayer

Heavenly Father,

Thank You for Your presence amid adversity.

Thank You for growing my faith and shaping me into the image of Your Son through trials.

I remember Jesus faced fiery trials during His life. Keep me from focusing on the difficulties I face instead of fixing my eyes on You, Lord.

When I feel weak, remind me that Your power is made perfect in my weakness.

You overcame, Lord! By Your power and grace, I will overcome, knowing You are with me.

I choose to trust in Your unfailing love, Father. I am who You say I am—more than a conqueror through Christ.

Thank You for delivering and guiding me through every challenge.

Have Your way in my life today, Lord.

In Jesus' name, I pray. Amen.

Divine Dialogue

Pause, Listen, Record, and Respond

John 10:1-18

Klein, Tanner. "Day 21: A Heart of Gratitude in Adversity." Thank You, Father: 30 Days of Gratitude, Prayer, & Praise, KLEINHAUS Books, 2024, pp. 173-179.

*Thank You, Father: 30 Days of Gratitude, Prayer, & Praise - Men’s Devotional is available on Amazon: Ebook, $7.99 (or $0.00 for Kindle Unlimited) or Paperback, $13.99.* If you’ve been blessed by this devotional, you can leave a review on Amazon—that would bless me.

🇫🇷 La traduction française

Jour 21 : Un Cœur de Gratitude dans l’Adversité - Merci, Père : 30 Jours de Gratitude, de Prière et de Louange

« Mais nous portons ce trésor dans des vases de terre, afin que cette puissance extraordinaire soit attribuée à Dieu, et non à nous. Nous sommes pressés de toute manière, mais non écrasés ; dans la détresse, mais non désespérés ; persécutés, mais non abandonnés ; abattus, mais non perdus. »

2 Corinthiens 4:7–9

« Qui accusera les élus de Dieu ? C’est Dieu Qui justifie ! Qui les condamnera ? Christ est mort ; bien plus, Il est ressuscité, Il est à la droite de Dieu, et Il intercède pour nous ! Qui nous séparera de l’amour de Christ ? La tribulation, l’angoisse, la persécution, la faim, la nudité, le péril ou l’épée ? Selon qu’il est écrit : À cause de Toi, on nous met à mort tout le jour, on nous regarde comme des brebis destinées à la boucherie. Mais dans toutes ces choses, nous sommes plus que vainqueurs par Celui Qui nous a aimés. »

Romains 8:33–37

« Les justes crient, et l’Éternel entend ; Il les délivre de toutes leurs détresses. »

Psaume 34:17

Méditation

Face à l’adversité, ces passages révèlent une vérité profonde : Dieu est présent avec nous au milieu de nos épreuves.

Bien que nous soyons affligés, perplexes et persécutés, nous ne sommes pas écrasés, désespérés ou abandonnés.

Nous avons l’assurance que rien ne peut nous séparer de l’amour de Christ, et dans toutes ces épreuves, nous sommes plus que vainqueurs par Celui Qui nous a aimés.

Nous avons été purifiés et rendus justes par le sang de l’Agneau Qui a vaincu le péché, la mort et le diable.

Ceux qui ont mis leur confiance en Jésus sont aidés par le Saint-Esprit en toutes circonstances et rassurés que, lorsque nous crions à l’aide, l’Éternel nous entend.

Il nous délivrera des tentations et des troubles qui surviennent.

Notre Défenseur est digne d’être loué.

Pour Les Hommes de Dieu

L’adversité et les épreuves révèlent l’authenticité éprouvée de notre foi.

Bien que les temps difficiles surviennent et exposent souvent nos points faibles, ces versets nous rappellent que dans notre faiblesse, la puissance de Dieu se manifeste pleinement.

Nous ne sommes pas seuls. Notre Seigneur combat pour nous.

« Ainsi nous pouvons dire avec assurance : Le Seigneur est mon secours, je ne craindrai rien ; que peut me faire un homme ? » (Hébreux 13:6).

Il entend nos cris de foi et nous équipe de ce dont nous avons besoin pour surmonter tout obstacle.

Le Dieu Tout-Puissant est avec nous, nous n’avons pas à craindre les issues incertaines de l’avenir.

Nous ne sommes ni vaincus ni abandonnés. Nous sommes victorieux en Christ et nous triompherons par Lui.

Application

Comment répondrez-vous à l’adversité aujourd’hui ? Commencez par inscrire dans votre cœur la promesse de Jésus : « Et voici, Je suis avec vous tous les jours, jusqu’à la fin du monde. » (Matthieu 28:20). Souvenez-vous, notre Père est pour nous ; Il l’a prouvé. Le Saint-Esprit est en nous. Ainsi, au lieu de succomber au désespoir face aux défis, appuyez-vous sur la présence promise de Dieu et sur la victoire en Christ.

Au lieu de chercher à contrôler votre vie, choisissez de remercier Dieu pour Son amour inséparable. Criez au Seigneur avec foi, en faisant confiance à Sa sollicitude et en sachant avec une pleine assurance qu’Il est capable de vous aider. Par la puissance de Son Esprit, pratiquez la joie dans le Seigneur lorsque vous faites face à des difficultés. Cultivez un cœur de gratitude à travers l’adversité, convaincu que la puissance de Dieu vous soutiendra et vous élèvera.

Prière

Père Céleste,

Merci pour Ta présence au milieu de l’adversité.

Merci de faire croître ma foi et de me façonner à l’image de Ton Fils à travers les épreuves.

Je me souviens que Jésus a affronté de rudes épreuves durant Sa vie. Garde-moi de me concentrer sur les difficultés que je rencontre au lieu de fixer mes yeux sur Toi, Seigneur.

Lorsque je me sens faible, rappelle-moi que Ta puissance s’accomplit dans ma faiblesse.

Tu as vaincu, Seigneur ! Par Ta puissance et Ta grâce, je vaincrai, sachant que Tu es avec moi.

Je choisis de faire confiance à Ton amour inébranlable, Père. Je suis ce que Tu dis que je suis — plus que vainqueur par Christ.

Merci de me délivrer et de me guider à travers chaque défi.

Accomplis Ta volonté dans ma vie aujourd’hui, Seigneur.

Au nom de Jésus, je prie. Amen.

Dialogue Divin

Pause, Écoute, Note et Réponds

Jean 10:1–18

🇫🇷 La traduction française de:

Klein, Tanner. "Day 21: A Heart of Gratitude in Adversity." Thank You, Father: 30 Days of Gratitude, Prayer, & Praise, KLEINHAUS Books, 2024, pp. 173-179.

*Thank You, Father: 30 Days of Gratitude, Prayer, & Praise - Men’s Devotional est disponible sur Amazon : Ebook, 7,99 $ (ou 0,00 $ pour Kindle Unlimited) ou Broché, 13,99 $.* Si cette dévotion vous a été bénéfique, vous pouvez laisser un avis sur Amazon — cela me bénirait.

*La version biblique utilisée : Colombe (COL)

This free devotional comes from my book, Thank You, Father: 30 Days of Gratitude, Prayer, & Praise - Men’s Devotional, available on Amazon: Ebook, $7.99 (or $0.00 for Kindle Unlimited) or Paperback, $13.99. If you’ve been blessed by this devotional, you can leave a review on Amazon—that would bless me.

Day 20: God's Promised Compassion

“Seek the LORD while he may be found; call upon him while he is near; let the wicked forsake his way, and the unrighteous man his thoughts; let him return to the LORD, that he may have compassion on him, and to our God, for he will abundantly pardon.”

Isaiah 55:6-7

“As a father shows compassion to his children, so the LORD shows compassion to those who fear him.”

Psalm 103:13

“The LORD is gracious and merciful, slow to anger and abounding in steadfast love. The LORD is good to all, and his mercy is over all that he has made. All your works shall give thanks to you, O LORD, and all your saints shall bless you!”

Psalm 145:8-10

Devotional

Our Heavenly Father’s willingness to show compassion is tried and tested.

“God shows his love for us in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us” (Rom. 5:8). There is no love like His, no lord like the Lord our God.

As He did before, the LORD invites us today to seek Him and call upon His name.

We are invited to repent and return to our God, to trust in His promise to show compassion and His willingness to forgive.

To those who fear Him, the LORD demonstrates His fatherly love and mercy.

Our God is unmatched in His compassion to those who forsake evil and trust in Him.

He is worthy of all the thanks we can give.

Men of God

God's compassion should instill a profound sense of gratitude as His mercy extends beyond our shortcomings.

These verses are an invitation to seek our gracious God, no matter how far we may have wandered.

In these Scriptures, we can see God as our kind-hearted Father and sovereign Creator who both hates sin and greatly loves His children.

Now is the right time to simply repent and return to your Father that He may abundantly pardon and show you compassion.

We can embrace our Father’s compassion today by acknowledging our need for Him and living in response to His steadfast love.

Application

Consider our Father’s compassion to those who fear Him. Recognize that God's compassion is a lavish gift of steadfast love. So, turn to the Lord with a sincere heart.

Practice gratitude as you reflect on His compassion in your life—His grace to save, bless, and sustain you up until this very moment. Honor God by showing compassion and grace in your interactions with others. As you do, you reflect God's character to the world around you.

Prayer

Lord Most High,

Thank You for Your invitation to seek and find You.

You have been so good to me, God.

Help me to grasp the depth of Your mercy and embrace Your loving care, that I might not sin against You.

Thank You for empowering me by Your Spirit to turn away from sin, return to You, and trust in Your compassion.

May my heart overflow with gratitude in response, that I may share Your compassion with those around me.

May my life be a testimony of Your love.

In Jesus' name, I pray. Amen.

Divine Dialogue

Pause, Listen, Record, and Respond

1 Samuel 3:10

Klein, Tanner. "Day 20: God's Promised Compassion." Thank You, Father: 30 Days of Gratitude, Prayer, & Praise, KLEINHAUS Books, 2024, pp. 165-171.

*Thank You, Father: 30 Days of Gratitude, Prayer, & Praise - Men’s Devotional is available on Amazon: Ebook, $7.99 (or $0.00 for Kindle Unlimited) or Paperback, $13.99.* If you’ve been blessed by this devotional, you can leave a review on Amazon—that would bless me.

🇫🇷 La traduction française

Jour 20 : La Compassion Promise de Dieu - Merci, Père : 30 Jours de Gratitude, de Prière et de Louange

« Cherchez l’Éternel pendant qu’Il se trouve ; Invoquez-Le, Tandis qu’Il est près. Que le méchant abandonne sa voie, Et l’homme d’iniquité ses pensées ; Qu’il retourne à l’Éternel, Qui aura compassion de lui, À notre Dieu, Car Il pardonne abondamment. »

Ésaïe 55:6–7

« Comme un père a compassion de ses enfants, L’Éternel a compassion de ceux qui Le craignent. »

Psaume 103:13

« L’Éternel est plein de grâce et de compassion, Lent à la colère et grand par la bienveillance. L’Éternel est bon envers tous, Et Ses compassions s’étendent à toutes Ses œuvres. Toutes Tes œuvres Te loueront, Éternel, Et Tes fidèles Te béniront. »

Psaume 145:8–10

Méditation

La volonté de notre Père céleste de montrer de la compassion est éprouvée et certaine.

« Mais Dieu prouve Son amour envers nous, en ce que, lorsque nous étions encore pécheurs, Christ est mort pour nous. » (Romains 5:8). Il n’y a pas d’amour comme le Sien, ni de seigneur comme le Seigneur notre Dieu.

Comme Il l’a fait autrefois, l’Éternel nous invite aujourd’hui à Le chercher et à invoquer Son Nom.

Nous sommes appelés à nous repentir et à revenir à notre Dieu, à faire confiance à Sa promesse de montrer de la compassion et à Sa volonté de pardonner.

À ceux qui Le craignent, l’Éternel manifeste Son amour paternel et Sa miséricorde.

Notre Dieu est incomparable dans Sa compassion envers ceux qui abandonnent le mal et placent leur confiance en Lui.

Il est digne de toute la gratitude que nous pouvons Lui offrir.

Pour Les Hommes de Dieu

La compassion de Dieu devrait susciter en nous une profonde reconnaissance, car Sa miséricorde dépasse nos manquements.

Ces versets sont une invitation à chercher notre Dieu plein de grâce, peu importe la distance à laquelle nous nous sommes éloignés.

Dans ces Écritures, nous voyons Dieu comme notre Père bienveillant et Créateur souverain, Qui hait le péché mais aime profondément Ses enfants.

Le moment est venu de simplement se repentir et de revenir à votre Père, afin qu’Il puisse vous pardonner abondamment et vous montrer Sa compassion.

Nous pouvons embrasser la compassion de notre Père aujourd’hui en reconnaissant notre besoin de Lui et en vivant en réponse à Son amour inébranlable.

Application

Considérez la compassion de notre Père envers ceux qui Le craignent. Reconnaissez que la compassion de Dieu est un don généreux de Son amour fidèle. Tournez-vous donc vers l’Éternel avec un cœur sincère.

Pratiquez la gratitude en réfléchissant à Sa compassion dans votre vie — Sa grâce pour vous sauver, vous bénir et vous soutenir jusqu’à ce moment même. Honorez Dieu en faisant preuve de compassion et de grâce dans vos interactions avec les autres. Ce faisant, vous reflétez le caractère de Dieu au monde qui vous entoure.

Prière

Dieu Très-Haut,

Merci pour Ton invitation à Te chercher et à Te trouver.

Tu as été si bon envers moi, ô Dieu.

Aide-moi à saisir la profondeur de Ta miséricorde et à embrasser Ton soin aimant, afin que je ne pèche pas contre Toi.

Merci de m’avoir donné la force, par Ton Esprit, de me détourner du péché, de revenir à Toi et de faire confiance à Ta compassion.

Que mon cœur déborde de gratitude en réponse, afin que je puisse partager Ta compassion avec ceux qui m’entourent.

Que ma vie soit un témoignage de Ton amour.

Au nom de Jésus, je prie. Amen.

Dialogue Divin

Pause, Écoute, Note et Réponds

« Parle, Éternel, car Ton serviteur écoute. »

1 Samuel 3:10

🇫🇷 La traduction française de:

Klein, Tanner. "Day 20: God's Promised Compassion." Thank You, Father: 30 Days of Gratitude, Prayer, & Praise, KLEINHAUS Books, 2024, pp. 165-171.

*Thank You, Father: 30 Days of Gratitude, Prayer, & Praise - Men’s Devotional est disponible sur Amazon : Ebook, 7,99 $ (ou 0,00 $ pour Kindle Unlimited) ou Broché, 13,99 $.* Si cette dévotion vous a été bénéfique, vous pouvez laisser un avis sur Amazon — cela me bénirait.

*La version biblique utilisée : Colombe (COL)

This free devotional comes from my book, Thank You, Father: 30 Days of Gratitude, Prayer, & Praise - Men’s Devotional, available on Amazon: Ebook, $7.99 (or $0.00 for Kindle Unlimited) or Paperback, $13.99. If you’ve been blessed by this devotional, you can leave a review on Amazon—that would bless me.

Day 19: Renewed by God's Strength

"He gives power to the faint, and to him who has no might, he increases strength. Even youths shall faint and be weary, and young men shall fall exhausted; but they who wait for the LORD shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings like eagles; they shall run and not be weary; they shall walk and not faint."

Isaiah 40:29-31

"The LORD is my strength and my shield; in him, my heart trusts, and I am helped; my heart exults, and with my song, I give thanks to him."

Psalm 28:7

"I can do all things through him who strengthens me."

Philippians 4:13

Devotional

The LORD is our strength.

He renews the weary and weak by His Spirit. He uplifts us when we are weighed down with the strength we need to persevere.

There is no need to seem strong to others or fear man. Though we are weak, He is strong.

Our weaknesses do not limit God. Christ’s power is most evident in our weakness, not in our moments of strength.

The LORD is our shield protecting us. Through Him we can face challenges of all kinds with faith.

We can freely give thanks, certain of the Lord’s presence with us. We can trust He is faithful to equip us to do all He has called us to do for His glory.

In all circumstances, the joy of the LORD remains our strength.

Men of God

As men, we often face situations that demand strength—physical, emotional, and spiritual.

Without turning to God, we can rely on our own intellect to solve what we think is the problem and come to find ourselves overwhelmed and exhausted.

Our perceived strength does not impress the Lord God Almighty.

These passages remind us that God renews the strength of those who trust in Him, rely on Him, and wait for Him.

The LORD our God is the Source of the daily strength we need.

When we place our trust in the Lord completely, He infuses us with His power and enables us to overcome.

Application

In response to the help and strength of the LORD, King David proclaimed his trust, wholeheartedly rejoiced, and with his song, he gave thanks to God. How will we respond to our Strength and Shield? We can start by acknowledging our dependence on Him.

Though we may feel weak or inadequate, we can turn to the LORD in prayer anytime, anywhere. We get to seek His guidance and draw from His infinite reservoir of strength. In our daily challenges, we can declare with confidence in faith, "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me” (Phil. 4:13).

Prayer

Dear Heavenly Father,

Your promises are true. I believe You are my Strength and Shield.

You are unmatched in power and You are faithful to renew the strength of those who wait for You, LORD.

No challenge is too great for you, God. Anything is possible with You. Through Christ, I will overcome.

May my heart trust in You when I feel weak, convinced that You are able and willing to empower me to step forward in faith, Lord Almighty.

Help me to commit this to memory, that my strength comes from You alone, and through You, I can do all things.

You deserve all glory and honor.

In Jesus' name, I pray. Amen.

Divine Dialogue

Pause, Listen, Record, and Respond

John 10:1-18

Klein, Tanner. "Day 19: Renewed by God's Strength." Thank You, Father: 30 Days of Gratitude, Prayer, & Praise, KLEINHAUS Books, 2024, pp. 157-163.

*Thank You, Father: 30 Days of Gratitude, Prayer, & Praise - Men’s Devotional is available on Amazon: Ebook, $7.99 (or $0.00 for Kindle Unlimited) or Paperback, $13.99.* If you’ve been blessed by this devotional, you can leave a review on Amazon—that would bless me.

In our last podcast-post, Why Pray for Persecuted Christians? 7 Reasons Our Prayers Make A Powerful, Global Impact, we explored:

1. God’s Word Commands Us To Pray

2. Prayer Strengthens our Brothers & Sisters in Faith

3. Intercession Invites God's Power & Presence in the Midst of Any Battle

4. Prayer Unites Us with the Global Body of Christ in Love

5. Prayer for the Persecuted Awakens Us to the Cost of Discipleship

6. Those Risking It All to Follow Christ Simply Seek Prayer

7. Prayer Builds the Kingdom and Glorifies God

I prayed that God would powerfully use this podcast-post to inspire you to pray and cultivate a rich prayer life with the Lord. If you’re interested in listening in or exploring the potent, global impact of our prayers, click one of the links below for the post, Apple podcast, or Spotify, whatever you prefer.

Apple podcasts link:

Spotify link:

Now it’s time to intercede for our persecuted family in faith! I won’t say aloud all the Scripture references below in my spoken prayer, nevertheless, the Biblical inspiration for this prayer is listed throughout the prayer below. Feel free to explore these Scriptures further and use them in your faith-filled prayers!

Intercession for the Persecuted Church

Father in Heaven,You are the Sovereign Lord, the Maker of heaven and earth, the Defender of the weak. You are the Strength of all who trust in You.

We come before You with reverence and awe, to intercede for our brothers and sisters around the world who are suffering for the sake of Your Son, Jesus. Thank You for these beloved ones who have been counted worthy to suffer for Christ’s sake (Acts 5:41).

Lord, may we remember those in prison as if we were in prison with them, and those who are mistreated as if we ourselves were suffering (Hebrews 13:3).

Strengthen the hearts of Your children who are enduring trials, persecution, and tribulation for the sake of the Gospel. Uphold them with Your righteous right hand (Isaiah 41:10).

Clothe them in Your peace that surpasses understanding (Philippians 4:7) and pour out upon them the Spirit of wisdom and revelation in the knowledge of Christ (Ephesians 1:17–18).

Grant them boldness to proclaim Your Word as Paul prayed in chains, that they may fearlessly make known the mystery of the Gospel (Ephesians 6:19–20).

Let Your Word speed ahead and be honored through and among Your sons and daughters (2 Thessalonians 3:1).

Father, remind them to stay equipped with the full armor of God that You have given them so they may be able to stand firm in the face of opposition and evil—the belt of truth, the breastplate of righteousness, as for shoes the readiness given by the Gospel of peace, the shield of faith to extinguish all the fiery arrows of the evil one, the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is Your Word (Ephesians 6:10–17). May they stand firm, having done all to stand firm by the power of Your abiding Spirit.

Let them not grow weary in doing good (Galatians 6:9), for in due season, in time, they will reap if they do not give up. Thank You for that promise, Lord.

Empower them to run the race set before them with endurance, fixing their eyes on Jesus, the Author and Perfecter of our faith (Hebrews 12:1–2). May they consider Him who endured such hostility from sinners, so that they will not grow weary or lose heart.

May Your joy be their strength (Nehemiah 8:10), and by Your life-giving Spirit of truth, may they count it all joy when they face various trials, knowing that the testing of their faith produces endurance, and endurance must have it’s full effect so that they may be mature and complete, lacking nothing (James 1:2–4).

Almighty King of kings, guard them from the evil one (2 Thessalonians 3:3).

Lead them away from temptation and deliver them from evil (Matthew 6:13).

Lord Jesus, as You prayed for Peter and sustained him despite the enemy’s schemes (Luke 22:31–32), do not allow the defeated deceiver to sift them like wheat—strengthen the faith and bold resilience of Your beloved ones facing adversity.

Set Your angels around them to minister and protect them, for You command Your angels concerning them to guard them in all their ways (Psalm 91:11).

Help them abide in Christ, the True Vine (John 15:4–5). May they bear much fruit that brings You glory and shows what Your like to the world living in darkness, including their persecutors.

May they feast daily from the Bread of Life (John 6:35) and drink deeply from the Living Water that only Christ gives (John 4:14). Be their portion, their sustainer, and their satisfaction.

Lamb of God, Good Shepherd, may Your sheep be faithful even unto death, knowing You will give them the crown of life (Revelation 2:10). Fill their hearts with hope as they overcome by the blood of the Lamb and the word of their testimony (Revelation 12:11).

Caring Comforter, comfort those who mourn, strengthen those whose families have been torn apart, and bring healing where there is trauma and deep pain. Lord, we remember Your promise to be near to the brokenhearted and to save those who are crushed in spirit (Psalm 34:18).

May our persecuted brothers and sisters experience the fellowship of Your sufferings and the power of Your resurrection (Philippians 3:10).

Lord of the Harvest, raise up laborers to work the harvest fields and multiply the Church under persecution. As it was in the book of Acts, may persecution lead to the bold and international spread of the Gospel (Acts 8:1–4).

By Your grace, add to their number those who are being saved day after day (Acts 2:47).

Raise up faithful shepherds who will shepherd Your flock in truth, and raise up disciples who will go and make more disciples of all nations (Matthew 28:19–20).

We pray for entire households to come to Christ through the testimony of the persecuted.

Giver of every good and every perfect gift, we ask for visions, dreams, and signs pointing to Jesus Christ our Savior and confirming the Word of the Lord (Acts 2:17–21, Mark 16:20).

Turn the hearts of enemies into brothers, just as You did with Saul of Tarsus (Acts 9:1–22). May prisons become places of praise, just as Paul and Silas sung Your praises while in chains (Acts 16:25–26).

Lord, awaken us who are living comfortably or seeking comfort in the things of this world. May the courage of our afflicted family in Christ inspire our faith-filled obedience and response. May their sacrifice prompt us to pray and praise You for who You are and what You have done. May their testimonies ignite our faith and hunger to know Jesus intimately and make Him known.

May we not forget the persecuted risking it all to follow Christ but bear their burdens in prayer, in giving, and in love.

Jesus, You are worthy of it all—every sacrifice, every tear, every risk, every loss. Let Your name be exalted above all names. May Your Kingdom come and Your will be done on earth as it is in heaven (Matthew 6:10).

Lord Jesus, do what only You can do, in and through us, Your Bride. Until You come again, keep Your persecuted children faithful, fruitful, and full of joy and satisfaction in You.

In the mighty name of Jesus Christ, our Lord, our Savior, our coming King, we pray. Amen.

I pray that God would powerfully use this post to inspire you to keep praying and cultivating a rich prayer life with the Lord.

Thank you for being apart of this LIFE ON MISSION community. I am so glad you’re here and trust you are continuing to cultivate a faith-filled, God-fearing, Christ-centered perspective and lifestyle with Jesus.

If you were blessed by this LIFE ON MISSION with TANNER KLEIN post and encouraged to pray, please share it with a friend. Spread the word. We need to pray for our persecuted brothers and sisters and we get to partner with GOD AT WORK IN THE WORLD through prayer! As a reminder, this LIFE ON MISSION with TANNER KLEIN podcast is available on Apple Podcasts and Spotify. Click these links listed above to listen or copy them to share with a friend, family member, neighbor, or colleague.

May our great God bless you and inspire you to ask, seek, knock, and keep praying!

1. God’s Word Commands Us To Pray

The Word of God calls us to remember, honor, and intercede for those who suffer for the name of Jesus. It says in Hebrews 13:3,

3 “Remember those who are in prison, as though in prison with them, and those who are mistreated, since you also are in the body.”

In 1 Corinthians 12:24-26, we read that,

24 “…God has so composed the body, giving greater honor to the part that lacked it, 25 that there may be no division in the body, but that the members may have the same care for one another. 26 If one member suffers, all suffer together; if one member is honored, all rejoice together.

We are one Body—Christ’s Body—and when one member suffers, we are all affected. When we pray, we stand in the gap, just as Jesus intercedes for us.

33 “Who shall bring any charge against God's elect? It is God who justifies. 34 Who is to condemn? Christ Jesus is the one who died—more than that, who was raised—who is at the right hand of God, who indeed is interceding for us.” - Romans 8:33-34

2. Prayer Strengthens our Brothers & Sisters in Faith

Persecuted believers often ask for prayer, as the Apostle Paul did—not always for deliverance from trials and persecution, but for boldness, strength, and faithfulness to proclaim the Gospel in the midst of fiery opposition.

We find in Ephesians 6, after exhorting the church in Ephesus to put on the full armor of God, that they may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand firm (v.13), Apostle Paul clearly instructs them in verses 18-20 to be “praying at all times in the Spirit, with all prayer and supplication” and to,

“Keep alert with all perseverance, making supplication for all the saints, 19 and also for me, that words may be given to me in opening my mouth boldly to proclaim the mystery of the gospel, 20 for which I am an ambassador in chains, that I may declare it boldly, as I ought to speak.”

Our prayers uphold and empower our persecuted family in faith in the Spirit, strengthening their hearts in the face of danger and reminding them that they are not alone. When we pray, we get to ask God to pour out His sufficient grace, strength, and endurance on those facing persecution. We get to intercede for them to remain faithful witnesses, filled with the Spirit, so they can continue to proclaim the Gospel as ambassadors of Christ, even in hostile environments. Our prayers help carry their burdens and support the spread of God’s Kingdom in dark places.

3. Intercession Invites God's Power & Presence in the Midst of Any Battle

Prayer is not a last resort; it is a powerful weapon of spiritual warfare. When we cry out to the Lord on behalf of His people, our God responds. The Lord hears the faith-filled prayers His saints abiding in Him. When we pray together, the Lord is among us as He promised in Matthew 18:19- 20:

9 “Again I say to you, if two of you agree on earth about anything they ask, it will be done for them by my Father in heaven. 20 For where two or three are gathered in my name, there am I among them.”

The Bible assures us that,

“The prayer of a righteous person has great power as it is working.” - James 5:16

Our prayers don’t fall on blind eyes or deaf ears—our God sees, hears, and acts when His people intercede on behalf of His sons and daughters in need.

The Lord our God is mighty to save, sustain, and supply all that is needed in the spiritual battle for souls and truth.

4. Prayer Unites Us with the Global Body of Christ in Love

We are part of one spiritual family in Jesus, as it says in 1 Corinthians 12:12,

12 “For just as the body is one and has many members, and all the members of the body, though many, are one body, so it is with Christ.”

Prayer bridges borders and languages, connecting us to brothers and sisters who face unimaginable challenges. When we pray, we practice unity in Christ and respond to the call to “Rejoice with those who rejoice, [and] weep with those who weep” (Romans 12:15).

As we pray for the persecuted, we get to reflect the love of Christ, who laid down His life for the Church, His Bride. Prayer and intercession bind us together across cultures and continents, reminding us that we belong to God’s eternal, covenant family, a global family bought by the blood of Jesus. In love for our brothers and sisters, we care so much that we weep with those who weep, and we rejoice when they stand firm and persevere in Christ.

5. Prayer for the Persecuted Awakens Us to the Cost of Discipleship

Persecuted believers choose Christ over comfort, safety, and even life itself. Praying for the persecuted reminds us of the cost of discipleship. They risk everything for the sake of knowing Christ our Savior and making Him known. Their courage and devotion to the Lord challenge us to live with boldness in our own walk with God. Praying for them keeps their faith-filled lives and testimonies fresh in our hearts and stirs us to a more courageous, uncompromising faith.

When we pray for those who risk everything to follow Jesus, we are stirred to examine our own lives. Their faith amid persecution challenges our complacency, ignites gratitude, and compels us to live with deeper devotion, humility, and boldness in our own contexts and personal mission fields.

6. Those Risking It All to Follow Christ Simply Seek Prayer

Something I’ve learned by regularly listening to testimonies from persecuted believers, is that their primary request of the global or Western Church is not for safety, escape, or comfort—it’s for our prayers. Their humble plea should grip our hearts and awaken us to the power of our prayers in faith. If they are willing to suffer and die for the Gospel, can we not commit to lifting them up regularly before the throne of grace? Our prayers from afar truly do make an impact on the ground, in the hearts and spirits of our brothers and sisters in need.

Hearing their prayer requests entails that we engage with those facing opposition for their faith, or those representing them. Listening to their stories and praying tends to wake us up from apathy and comfort-seeking, prompting us to live more surrendered lives. It helps us prioritize the eternal over the temporary and align our hearts with God's purposes as He works through His Bride to reach the world.

7. Prayer Builds the Kingdom and Glorifies God

When we pray for the persecuted, we join in God’s redemptive mission. We get to ask Him to strengthen His witnesses, spread His Gospel, and shine His light in dark places. Through prayer, God not only responds to supply their needs, but also inspires and builds our faith and intimacy with Him. As Christ is lifted up through their lives and testimonies, God is glorified and the Kingdom advances—even in hostile territory. Through prayer, we get to play an active role in the work of God across the nations. We get to come alongside our family in faith and seek God’s will for them and their persecutors, knowing our God is able and willing to take action. What an awesome privilege.

I pray that God would powerfully use this post to inspire you to pray and cultivate a rich prayer life with the Lord.

There’s no better time to pray than now! Feel free to pause and to pray.

Thank you for being apart of this LIFE ON MISSION community. I am so glad you’re here and trust you are continuing to cultivate a faith-filled, God-fearing, Christ-centered perspective and lifestyle with Jesus.

Are you interested in hearing more testimonies from the frontlines, from those risking it all to follow Jesus and make Him known? I’ve been greatly encouraged by Voice of the Martyrs (VOM) Radio and RAW Mission. Their podcasts are linked here.

If you were blessed by this LIFE ON MISSION with TANNER KLEIN post and encouraged to pray, please share it with a friend. Spread the word. We need to pray for our persecuted brothers and sisters and we get to partner with God at work in the world through prayer! Let’s go! Finally, this LIFE ON MISSION with TANNER KLEIN podcast is available on Apple Podcasts and Spotify. Click these links to listen or copy them to share with a friend, family member, neighbor, or colleague.

May our great God bless you and inspire you to ask, seek, knock, and keep praying!

Hey friends, thanks for joining the LIFE ON MISSION with TANNER KLEIN Podcast. Welcome back to the Who Is God series.

I’m really excited to explore this aspect of who God is with you all. Get ready, because we’re about to engage with the living God and meditate on His beauty. I hope this fuels your faith and inspires lasting gratitude, prayer, & praise. Let’s do this!

GOD IS BEAUTIFUL

What does this mean?

To say God is beautiful is to confess that His nature, character, and presence are the very essence of perfection, beauty, and glory.

The Lord our God is the Source of beauty.

His beauty isn’t just external or superficial. It is the radiant expression of His holiness, His love, His mercy, and His truth—all in perfect unity.

Beauty flows from God.

Ecclesiastes 3:11 says,

“He has made everything beautiful in its time. Also, he has put eternity into man's heart, yet so that he cannot find out what God has done from the beginning to the end.”

The depths of God’s beauty and masterful design are beyond our capacity to fully comprehend.

His beauty, by definition, is exceptional—utterly extraordinary.

The motives and intentions of God’s heart are beautiful, just, and altogether righteous.

Jesus Himself, exemplifies God’s beauty. It says in Hebrews 1:3-4,

“He is the radiance of the glory of God and the exact imprint of his nature, and he upholds the universe by the word of his power. After making purification for sins, he sat down at the right hand of the Majesty on high, having become as much superior to angels as the name he has inherited is more excellent than theirs.”

Anything beautiful that humanity creates is derived from God’s beautiful creation; we can only create things from things that have already been made. John 1:3 says,

“All things were made through him, and without him was not any thing made that was made.”

Only the brilliant Creator created beauty from nothing and declared it to be very good (see Genesis 1:31).

Only the Potter can take ordinary clay and make something beautiful from it (see Isaiah 64:8).

Only the Sovereign Lord can transform what was intended for evil into something exceedingly good (see Genesis 50:20).

Only the Lover of our souls can work all things together for the good of those who love Him and are called according to His purpose (see Romans 8:28).

The beauty of God inspires reverent worship, not only because of what He gives or does, but because of who He is.

The Scriptures reveal that the Lord is the Designer of all that is lovely, the Source of splendor and goodness, the glorious Creator and Redeemer whose majesty outshines anything this world could offer.

I believe this with all my heart: there has been, there is, and there will be no one and no thing more beautiful than the Lord our God, our Savior, our King.

All His words are life-giving and true.

All His works are wondrous.

His presence is captivating.

His love is better than life.

Our God is true, honorable, just, pure, lovely, commendable, excellent, and worthy of praise (see Philippians 4:8).

Oh, how worthy He is of our awe, our worship, and our surrender.

Before we continue...

Let’s pause and reflect on the breathtaking beauty of our God. Right now, we are approaching the King of Glory—the One who is altogether lovely, whose glory fills the heavens and covers the earth.

“The earth will be filled with the knowledge of the glory of the Lord as the waters cover the sea.” - Habakkuk 2:14

He is the Beautiful One—matchless, holy, radiant, full of majesty and mercy.

Our God created beauty and is Himself the definition of it.

Take a moment—just 30 seconds—to quiet your heart before Him. Let your soul be drawn into the beauty of His presence. There is no one like Him. Let the fear of the Lord and the love of the Lord rise up within you.

Are you ready? By faith, let’s come before God’s throne of grace. Let’s marvel before the glory of our God. Can you feel your spirit leaning in? Let’s step into His beauty together, with open hearts and childlike awe and wonder.

God’s Word Reveals HE IS BEAUTIFUL

“Splendor and majesty are before him; strength and joy are in his place.”

- 1 Chronicles 16:27

“For the Lord God is a sun and shield; the Lord bestows favor and honor. No good thing does he withhold from those who walk uprightly.”

- Psalm 84:11

“You are the God who works wonders; you have made known your might among the peoples.”

- Psalm 77:14

“One thing have I asked of the Lord, that will I seek after: that I may dwell in the house of the Lord all the days of my life, to gaze upon the beauty of the Lord and to inquire in his temple.”

- Psalm 27:4

1. Behold: Who God Is

God is beautiful—beyond comprehension, beyond comparison.

His beauty is not limited to what He’s made, though the heavens declare His beauty.

It is who the Lord is in His nature—perfect in love, flawless in holiness, abounding in mercy, rich in truth.

His beauty is seen in the tenderness of His love, the righteousness of His judgments, the intimacy of His nearness, and the power of His glory.

Every unique attribute of God reveals different aspects of His beauty on display.

When we truly behold His unmatched beauty and holiness, we are undone, like Isaiah before the throne of God (see Isaiah 6:1-7)

When we truly behold His unmatched beauty and holiness, we are drawn into thanksgiving, praise, and worship with reverence and awe.

We are transformed, from the inside out.

2. Believe: Who You Are in Christ

Because God is beautiful, you are made beautiful in Him.

You are not defined by the world’s shallow, shifting definitions of beauty.

You are created in the image of the Beautiful One, and in Christ, you are made new—washed, redeemed, and radiant in His eyes.

Your identity is rooted in God’s eternal truth, not passing trends or opinions.

In Christ, you are chosen, beloved, and made beautiful by grace.

We are called to simply reflect His beauty—through our redeemed lives, abiding in Christ and walking with Him in love, humility, grace, and truth.

We get to reflect God’s beauty through our words and actions alike, with Christ’s light shining in and through us in the midst of darkness surrounding us.

3. Become: Like Jesus, Radiant and Reflecting God’s Beauty to the World

A Declaration for Today (You can say this with me by faith):

“Lord, You are beautiful. Thank You for making me in Your image. I am Your vessel. Let Your beauty shine through me. May my life reflect Your glory and love. May my life testify to the fact that You are the most beautiful, Lord my God.”

A Call to Trust:

When the world feels ugly, chaotic, or disheartening, remember this: The beauty of God never fades, never changes, and never fails.

Jesus Christ, the radiance of the Father’s glory, is the same yesterday, today, and forever, and HE IS WITH US.

You can trust His heart and His beautiful plan of redemption, even when you can’t clearly see His hand.

Look to Him—remember His beautiful words and works in your life, and be filled with His light.

Take A Step Of Faith:

Invite the Lord to shift your perspective.

Spend a few minutes meditating on the beauty of Jesus—especially in the Gospels of Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John.

With the help of the Helper, God’s Spirit, choose to practice seeing yourself and others through the lens of God’s beauty today.

You were hand-crafted by God, made in His image. So was your neighbor, your colleague, your mom and dad, your brother and sister. Practice living like this is true.

Ask God to help you see others more like He sees them.

Speak words that uplift; speak life not death.

Extend grace freely as God has freely extended His grace to you.

Look to the Lord and you will see God’s beauty on display.

Remember God’s Promise:

“Those who look to him are radiant, and their faces shall never be ashamed.”

- Psalm 34:5

Let’s Pray

Beautiful, glorious God,

There is none like You.

There’s no one beside You.

You are radiant in holiness.

You are perfect in love.

You are full of glory.

Thank You for opening my eyes to see the beauty of who You are.

Thank You for making me new in Christ and clothing me in Your righteousness.

Help me to reflect Your beauty in every word I speak, in every act of love, in the way I live and worship.

May my life shine with the light of Your presence.

May my heart be filled with the joy of knowing You.

I love You, Lord!

Your love is better than life.

Your love is sweeter than honey.

You are beautiful in all your works and ways.

Your thoughts, your plans, your purpose, your intentions—they’re all beautiful.

God, You are more beautiful than anything this world could offer.

I say, as David said in the wilderness, as Your word says in Psalm 63:2-4,

“I have looked upon you in the sanctuary,

beholding your power and glory.

Because your steadfast love is better than life,

my lips will praise you.

So I will bless you as long as I live;

in your name I will lift up my hands.”

In Jesus’ name I pray, amen.

Thank You, Lord!

May our beautiful God fill your soul with awe and joy, and may you live today in light of His radiant beauty and love. There is nothing and no one more beautiful than Him.

Thanks for tuning in and meditating on our God’s beauty with me. This is the 7th post in this series called WHO IS GOD? A Series on Rediscovering the One True, Living God—and Who You Are Because of Him.

As a reminder, here’s the heart of this series:

EMBRACING WHO GOD IS helps us ALIGN OUR IDENTITY IN CHRIST which leads to EXPERIENCING MORE ABUNDANT LIFE WITH GOD.

This may seem logical, but we really do need the help of God’s Spirit to live like this is true.

This is an intentional journey of growing to trust in God’s character and nature, allowing Him to shape our identity in Christ and responding by faith.

If you haven’t already, check out the latest podcasts highlighting Who God Is: Immutable (Unchanging), Love, a Consuming Fire, Infinite, Holy, and you can find the series introduction too. These are linked here.

* GOD IS IMMUTABLE (UNCHANGING)

* GOD IS LOVE

* GOD IS A CONSUMING FIRE

* INFINITE GOD

* GOD IS HOLY

* WHO IS GOD? Series Introduction

Were you blessed by our beautiful God through this post? You can share it with a friend. Copy the link, send it to a buddy, your parent, a sibling, or your neighbor.

For all the podcast listeners, feel free to share these LIFE ON MISSION posts via Apple Podcasts and Spotify.

I trust our beautiful Savior will continue to encourage and build up His Bride through these posts.

May God bless you to EMBRACE WHO GOD IS, ALIGN YOUR IDENTITY IN HIM, and EXPERIENCE MORE ABUNDANT LIFE WITH HIM. May God bless you today.

🇫🇷 DIEU EST BEAU – QUI EST DIEU ?

Une série pour redécouvrir le seul vrai Dieu vivant—et qui tu es à cause de Lui

Contempler les attributs, le caractère et la nature de Dieu

Salut mes amis, merci de rejoindre le podcast LIFE ON MISSION avec TANNER KLEIN. Bienvenue dans cette nouvelle méditation de la série « Qui est Dieu ? »

Je suis vraiment enthousiaste à l’idée d’explorer cet aspect de Dieu avec vous. Préparez-vous, car nous allons entrer en relation avec le Dieu vivant et méditer sur Sa beauté. J’espère que cela alimentera votre foi et inspirera en vous une reconnaissance profonde, de la prière et de la louange. Allons-y !

DIEU EST BEAU

Que signifie cela ?

Dire que Dieu est beau, c’est confesser que Sa nature, Son caractère et Sa présence sont l’essence même de la perfection, de la beauté et de la gloire. Le Seigneur notre Dieu est la source de toute beauté.

Sa beauté n’est pas seulement extérieure ou superficielle. Elle est l’expression éclatante de Sa sainteté, de Son amour, de Sa miséricorde et de Sa vérité—le tout en parfaite unité. La beauté découle de Dieu.

Ecclésiaste 3.11 déclare :

« Il fait toute chose belle en son temps ; même il a mis dans leur cœur la pensée de l’éternité, bien que l’homme ne puisse pas saisir l’œuvre que Dieu fait, du commencement jusqu’à la fin. »

Les profondeurs de la beauté de Dieu et de Sa création magistrale dépassent notre capacité à les comprendre pleinement. Sa beauté, par définition, est exceptionnelle—totalement extraordinaire. Les motifs et les intentions du cœur de Dieu sont beaux, justes et parfaitement droits.

Jésus lui-même incarne la beauté de Dieu. Hébreux 1.3-4 dit :

« Il est le reflet de Sa gloire et l’empreinte de Sa personne, et il soutient toutes choses par sa parole puissante. Ayant accompli la purification des péchés, il s’est assis à la droite de la Majesté divine dans les lieux très hauts, devenu d’autant supérieur aux anges qu’il a hérité d’un nom bien plus excellent que le leur. »

Tout ce que l’humanité peut créer de beau provient de la création magnifique de Dieu ; nous ne pouvons créer qu’à partir de ce qui a déjà été créé. Jean 1.3 dit :

« Toutes choses ont été faites par elle, et rien de ce qui a été fait n’a été fait sans elle. »

Seul le Créateur, dans Son génie, a créé la beauté à partir de rien, et Il a déclaré que cela était très bon (voir Genèse 1.31). Seul le Potier peut prendre de l’argile ordinaire et en faire quelque chose de magnifique (voir Ésaïe 64.8). Seul le Seigneur Souverain peut transformer ce que l’ennemi avait destiné au mal en un bien extraordinaire (voir Genèse 50.20). Seul l’Aimant de nos âmes peut faire concourir toutes choses au bien de ceux qui L’aiment et sont appelés selon Son dessein (voir Romains 8.28).

La beauté de Dieu inspire une adoration révérencieuse, non seulement pour ce qu’Il fait ou donne, mais pour qui Il est. Les Écritures révèlent que le Seigneur est le Concepteur de tout ce qui est beau, la Source de la splendeur et de la bonté, le Créateur glorieux et le Rédempteur dont la majesté surpasse tout ce que ce monde pourrait offrir.

Je le crois de tout mon cœur : il n’y a jamais eu, il n’y a pas, et il n’y aura jamais rien ni personne de plus beau que le Seigneur notre Dieu, notre Sauveur, notre Roi. Toutes Ses paroles sont vivifiantes et vraies. Toutes Ses œuvres sont merveilleuses. Sa présence est captivante. Son amour vaut mieux que la vie. Notre Dieu est vrai, honorable, juste, pur, aimable, digne d’approbation, excellent et digne de louange (voir Philippiens 4.8). Oh, combien Il est digne de notre adoration, de notre révérence et de notre abandon.

Avant de continuer…

Prenons un instant pour contempler la beauté époustouflante de notre Dieu. En ce moment même, nous nous approchons du Roi de Gloire—Celui qui est parfaitement aimable, dont la gloire remplit les cieux et couvre la terre.

« Car la terre sera remplie de la connaissance de la gloire de l’Éternel, comme les eaux couvrent le fond de la mer. »

- Habakuk 2.14

Il est le Dieu Beau—sans égal, saint, rayonnant, rempli de majesté et de miséricorde. Notre Dieu a créé la beauté et Il en est la définition même.

Prends un moment—juste 30 secondes—pour apaiser ton cœur devant Lui. Laisse ton âme être attirée par la beauté de Sa présence. Il n’y a personne comme Lui. Laisse la crainte de l’Éternel et l’amour de l’Éternel s’élever en toi.

Tu es prêt ? Par la foi, venons devant le trône de la grâce. Émerveillons-nous devant la gloire de notre Dieu. Sens-tu ton esprit s’incliner vers Lui ? Entrons ensemble dans Sa beauté, avec des cœurs ouverts et une crainte enfantine, pleine d’émerveillement.

La Parole de Dieu révèle qu’IL EST BEAU

« La splendeur et la magnificence sont devant lui, la force et la joie sont dans le lieu où il se tient. » - 1 Chroniques 16.27

« Car l’Éternel Dieu est un soleil et un bouclier ; l’Éternel donne la grâce et la gloire ; il ne refuse aucun bien à ceux qui marchent dans l’intégrité. » - Psaume 84.11

« Tu es le Dieu qui fait des merveilles ; tu as fait connaître ta puissance parmi les peuples. » - Psaume 77.14

« Je demande à l’Éternel une chose, que je désire ardemment : je voudrais habiter toute ma vie dans la maison de l’Éternel, pour contempler la beauté de l’Éternel et admirer son temple. » - Psaume 27.4

1. Contemple : Qui est Dieu

Dieu est beau—au-delà de toute compréhension, au-delà de toute comparaison. Sa beauté ne se limite pas à ce qu’Il a créé, même si les cieux proclament Sa gloire. Elle réside dans qui Il est—parfait en amour, sans défaut en sainteté, débordant de miséricorde, riche en vérité.

Sa beauté se manifeste dans la tendresse de Son amour, la justice de Ses jugements, l’intimité de Sa proximité, et la puissance de Sa gloire. Chaque attribut unique de Dieu révèle un aspect de Sa beauté.

Quand nous contemplons véritablement Sa beauté et Sa sainteté sans égal, nous sommes bouleversés—comme Ésaïe devant le trône de Dieu (voir Ésaïe 6.1-7). Quand nous contemplons Sa beauté, nous sommes attirés vers la reconnaissance, la louange et l’adoration dans la crainte et le respect. Et nous sommes transformés, de l’intérieur vers l’extérieur.

2. Crois : Qui tu es en Christ

Parce que Dieu est beau, tu es rendu(e) beau/belle en Lui. Tu n’es pas défini(e) par les définitions superficielles et changeantes du monde. Tu as été créé(e) à l’image du Dieu Beau, et en Christ, tu es une nouvelle créature—lavé(e), racheté(e), rayonnant(e) à Ses yeux. Ton identité est enracinée dans la vérité éternelle de Dieu, non dans les modes ou opinions passagères.

En Christ, tu es choisi(e), aimé(e) et rendu(e) beau/belle par la grâce. Nous sommes appelés à simplement refléter Sa beauté—à travers nos vies rachetées, en demeurant en Christ et en marchant avec Lui dans l’amour, l’humilité, la grâce et la vérité. Nous reflétons la beauté de Dieu à travers nos paroles et nos actes, alors que la lumière du Christ brille en nous et à travers nous, au cœur des ténèbres.

3. Deviens : Comme Jésus, Rayonnant et Reflétant la Beauté de Dieu au Monde

Une Déclaration pour aujourd’hui (Tu peux la dire avec moi par la foi) :

« Seigneur, Tu es beau. Merci de m’avoir créé(e) à Ton image. Je suis Ton vase. Que Ta beauté resplendisse à travers moi. Que ma vie reflète Ta gloire et Ton amour. Qu’elle témoigne du fait que Tu es le plus beau, Seigneur mon Dieu. »

Un appel à faire confiance : Quand le monde semble laid, chaotique ou décourageant, souviens-toi de ceci : La beauté de Dieu ne se fane jamais, ne change jamais, ne faillit jamais. Jésus-Christ, le rayonnement de la gloire du Père, est le même hier, aujourd’hui et pour l’éternité—et IL EST AVEC NOUS.

Tu peux faire confiance à Son cœur et à Son plan magnifique de rédemption, même quand tu ne vois pas clairement Sa main. Regarde vers Lui—rappelle-toi Ses paroles et Ses œuvres merveilleuses dans ta vie, et sois rempli(e) de Sa lumière.

Fais un pas de foi : Invite le Seigneur à transformer ta perspective. Passe quelques minutes à méditer sur la beauté de Jésus—surtout dans les Évangiles de Matthieu, Marc, Luc et Jean. Avec l’aide du Saint-Esprit, choisis aujourd’hui de voir toi-même et les autres à travers le prisme de la beauté de Dieu. Tu as été façonné(e) par Dieu, à Son image. Ton prochain aussi. Tes collègues, tes parents, ton frère, ta sœur. Vis comme si c’était vrai. Demande à Dieu de t’aider à voir les autres comme Lui les voit. Parle avec bonté, parle la vie et non la mort. Accorde librement la grâce, comme Dieu te l’a librement accordée. Regarde vers le Seigneur et tu verras Sa beauté se manifester.

Souviens-toi de la promesse de Dieu :

« Quand on tourne vers lui les regards, on est rayonnant de joie, et le visage ne se couvre pas de honte. »

- Psaume 34.5

Prions

Dieu beau et glorieux, Il n’y a personne comme Toi. Aucun n’est Ton égal. Tu es rayonnant en sainteté. Tu es parfait en amour. Tu es rempli de gloire. Merci d’avoir ouvert mes yeux pour voir la beauté de Qui Tu es. Merci de m’avoir renouvelé(e) en Christ et de m’avoir revêtu(e) de Ta justice. Aide-moi à refléter Ta beauté dans chaque parole, chaque acte d’amour, dans ma manière de vivre et d’adorer. Que ma vie brille de la lumière de Ta présence. Que mon cœur déborde de la joie de Te connaître. Je T’aime, Seigneur ! Ton amour vaut mieux que la vie. Ton amour est plus doux que le miel. Tu es beau dans toutes Tes œuvres et toutes Tes voies. Tes pensées, Tes plans, Tes desseins, Tes intentions—tout en Toi est beau. Dieu, Tu es plus beau que tout ce que ce monde pourrait offrir. Je dis, comme David dans le désert, comme Ta Parole le déclare dans Psaume 63.3-5 :

« Ainsi je T’ai contemplé dans le sanctuaire, Pour voir Ta puissance et Ta gloire. Car Ton amour vaut mieux que la vie : Mes lèvres célèbrent Tes louanges. Je Te bénirai donc toute ma vie, Je lèverai mes mains en Ton nom. »

Au nom de Jésus, amen. Merci Seigneur !

Que notre Dieu si beau remplisse ton âme d’émerveillement et de joie, et que tu vives aujourd’hui à la lumière de Sa beauté rayonnante et de Son amour. Il n’y a rien ni personne de plus beau que Lui.

Merci d’avoir médité sur la beauté de notre Dieu avec moi. Ceci est le 7ᵉ post de la série « QUI EST DIEU ? Une série pour redécouvrir le seul vrai Dieu vivant—et qui tu es à cause de Lui. »

Pour rappel, voici le cœur de cette série : ACCUEILLIR QUI EST DIEU nous aide à ALIGNER NOTRE IDENTITÉ EN CHRIST, ce qui mène à une VIE ABONDANTE AVEC DIEU. Cela semble logique, mais nous avons vraiment besoin de l’aide du Saint-Esprit pour vivre cela.

C’est un chemin intentionnel de confiance grandissante dans le caractère et la nature de Dieu, en laissant Christ façonner notre identité et en y répondant par la foi.

Si ce n’est pas déjà fait, écoute les derniers épisodes du podcast sur l’Immutabilité (Dieu est Inchangeable), l’Amour, le Feu Dévorant, l’Infinitude, la Sainteté… et découvre aussi l’introduction de cette série. Tous les liens sont disponibles ici.

* DIEU EST IMMUABLE (INCHANGEANT)

* DIEU EST AMOUR

* DIEU EST UN FEU DÉVORANT🔥

* DIEU INFINI

* DIEU EST SAINT

* QUI EST DIEU ?

As-tu été béni(e) par notre Dieu si beau à travers ce message ? Partage-le avec un(e) ami(e), un membre de ta famille ou ton voisin.

Pour les auditeurs du podcast, partagez les épisodes LIFE ON MISSION sur Apple Podcasts ou Spotify.

Je fais confiance à notre merveilleux Sauveur pour continuer d’encourager et de fortifier Son Église à travers ces messages. Que Dieu te bénisse pour ACCUEILLIR QUI IL EST, ALIGNER TON IDENTITÉ EN LUI, et EXPÉRIMENTER LA VIE ABONDANTE AVEC LUI. Que Dieu te bénisse aujourd’hui.

This free devotional comes from my book, Thank You, Father: 30 Days of Gratitude, Prayer, & Praise - Men’s Devotional, available on Amazon: Ebook, $7.99 (or $0.00 for Kindle Unlimited) or Paperback, $13.99. If you’ve been blessed by this devotional, you can leave a review on Amazon—that would bless me.

Day 18: Overflowing with Praise

"I will give thanks to the LORD with my whole heart; I will recount all of your wonderful deeds. I will be glad and exult in you; I will sing praise to your name, O Most High."

Psalm 9:1-2

"I will praise the name of God with a song; I will magnify him with thanksgiving."

Psalm 69:30

"Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us also lay aside every weight, and sin which clings so closely, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, looking to Jesus, the founder and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is seated at the right hand of the throne of God…Therefore let us be grateful for receiving a kingdom that cannot be shaken, and thus let us offer to God acceptable worship, with reverence and awe, for our God is a consuming fire."

Hebrews 12:1-2, 28-29

Devotional

In these verses it is clear, the LORD our God is worthy of our wholehearted praise and thanksgiving.

Though he endured years of life-threatening persecution, King David rejoiced in the LORD. He unashamedly sang praises, testified of God’s wonderful deeds, and proclaimed his joy in the LORD.

Gratitude abounds as we recount our God’s goodness in our lives and throughout history. Joy arises as we praise the Lord Most High.

With God’s Spirit abiding in us, we can live lives filled with gratitude and worship the LORD with the reverence and awe He deserves.

In response to God’s perfect love, presence, and rock-solid promises, we are to run the race of faith He’s set before us—keeping our eyes fixed on Jesus, the Prize.

Men of God

If we are to overflow with praise like King David, then we must remember who our God is and what He has done for us.

Our Lord does not desire half-hearted men or half-hearted worship.

Though David sinned and fell short of God’s glory like any other man, He knew the LORD his God and lived a life full of praise.

God called David “a man after my heart, who will do all my will” (Acts 13:22).

As David offered wholehearted praise and gratitude to God in his words, songs, and actions, we too are invited to be worshipful men after our Father’s heart.

With the help of the Holy Spirit constantly redirecting our gaze to our Good Shepherd, we are equipped to press on with Christ.

We can live praise-filled lives before the LORD with reverence and awe.

Application

Look to Jesus, the Author and Perfecter of our faith. Consider what Jesus endured for you. Take a few moments to meditate on the wonderful things the LORD has done in your life and choose to celebrate your Lord today.

Rejoice in the LORD as you intentionally seek Him for who He is, not just what He gives. Our God is a consuming fire, so lift up songs of praise to God with reverence and awe. Make Him known to others without shame. Remember, His perfect love casts out fear. Share what He has done for you. Let your actions and words reflect your gratitude for our Savior and King.

Prayer

Gracious Father,

You are exceedingly good and have done great things. You rule and reign forever.

Thank You for sending Your Son who endured the cross for the joy set before Him.

Thank You for paying the ultimate price to take the penalty for our sins upon Yourself, Lord Jesus. You made a way for us to know You personally, gracious God.

I rejoice in You and praise Your holy name, LORD. You alone are worthy of all praise.

May my life be filled with wholehearted worship, thanksgiving, and praise as You empower me by Your Spirit to run the race You have set before me.

May my life be a reflection of Your steadfast love and unshakable Kingdom today. You are worthy to be praised.

In Jesus' name, I pray. Amen.

Divine Dialogue

Pause, Listen, Record, and Respond

1 Samuel 3:10

Klein, Tanner. "Day 18: Overflowing with Praise." Thank You, Father: 30 Days of Gratitude, Prayer, & Praise, KLEINHAUS Books, 2024, pp. 149-155.

*Thank You, Father: 30 Days of Gratitude, Prayer, & Praise - Men’s Devotional is available on Amazon: Ebook, $7.99 (or $0.00 for Kindle Unlimited) or Paperback, $13.99.* If you’ve been blessed by this devotional, you can leave a review on Amazon—that would bless me.

This free devotional comes from my book, Thank You, Father: 30 Days of Gratitude, Prayer, & Praise - Men’s Devotional, available on Amazon: Ebook, $7.99 (or $0.00 for Kindle Unlimited) or Paperback, $13.99. If you’ve been blessed by this devotional, you can leave a review on Amazon—that would bless me.

Day 17: A Thankful Heart in Prayer

"Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus."

Philippians 4:5-7

"Continue steadfastly in prayer, being watchful in it with thanksgiving."

Colossians 4:2

"If I had cherished iniquity in my heart, the Lord would not have listened. But truly God has listened; he has attended to the voice of my prayer. Blessed be God, because he has not rejected my prayer or removed his steadfast love from me."

Psalm 66:18-20

Devotional

In these Scriptures we are invited to draw near to God in prayer with a thankful heart and reminded of why we have reason to give Him thanks.

We have been given the privilege to freely communicate with the living God, the King of kings, our Creator.

We get to know His Word, listen to His voice, and respond as His Spirit empowers us.

Prayer is a gift.

By praying with thanksgiving, we can cast our anxieties on the Lord and in return, experience His peace that surpasses understanding.

In His grace, the Lord listens to the prayers of those who approach Him with sincerity, humility, and gratitude.

Men of God

Lives packed with business, stress, and worry can easily distract us from cultivating a thankful heart in prayer.

However, these Scriptures remind us that we have an ever-available direct line of communication with God through prayer.

Our Lord revealed His willingness to give us peace and assurance of His steadfast love. We get to turn to Him with gratitude and humility.

His steadfast love is priceless and unmerited, not to be taken lightly but cherished.

Maintaining this thankful heart in prayer opens the door to God's promised peace that guards our hearts and minds in Christ.

Application

Today, take a minute to remember who you are talking to before you pray. Acknowledge the living God who spoke the world into existence and continues to speak. Before laying your concerns before God, give thanks in awe. Praise God for who He is. Praise Him for all He has done.

As you marvel in His presence, let the Holy Spirit examine your heart and highlight what needs to be surrendered. Seek the LORD’s forgiveness and freedom from anything that hinders your communication with Him. Embrace a lifestyle of gratitude-filled prayer. Stay watchful and expectant in faith, knowing that God hears and responds.

Prayer

Dear LORD,

You are the Lord Most High!

Thank You for the privilege it is to pray. Thank You for offering Your peace that surpasses understanding and guards our hearts and minds.

May I cultivate a thankful heart anchored in Your steadfast love, Father.

Help me to fully surrender any worries weighing me down. Guide me to rid my life of any distractions keeping me from continuing steadfastly in prayer.

Teach me to be watchful in prayer with thanksgiving.

Shape my desires to align with Your will. May my prayers be genuine and pleasing to You.

Thank You for Your life-giving plans and purposes for my life. Thank You for Your Spirit empowering me now to step forward in faith.

In Jesus' name, I pray. Amen.

Divine Dialogue

Pause, Listen, Record, and Respond

John 10:1-18

Klein, Tanner. "Day 17: A Thankful Heart in Prayer." Thank You, Father: 30 Days of Gratitude, Prayer, & Praise, KLEINHAUS Books, 2024, pp. 141-147.

*Thank You, Father: 30 Days of Gratitude, Prayer, & Praise - Men’s Devotional is available on Amazon: Ebook, $7.99 (or $0.00 for Kindle Unlimited) or Paperback, $13.99.* If you’ve been blessed by this devotional, you can leave a review on Amazon—that would bless me.

This free devotional comes from my book, Thank You, Father: 30 Days of Gratitude, Prayer, & Praise - Men’s Devotional, available on Amazon: Ebook, $7.99 (or $0.00 for Kindle Unlimited) or Paperback, $13.99. If you’ve been blessed by this devotional, you can leave a review on Amazon—that would bless me.

Day 16: God's Great Faithfulness

"The steadfast love of the LORD never ceases; his mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning; great is your faithfulness. 'The LORD is my portion,' says my soul, 'therefore I will hope in him.'"

Lamentations 3:22-24

"Your steadfast love, O LORD, extends to the heavens, your faithfulness to the clouds. Your righteousness is like the mountains of God; your judgments are like the great deep."

Psalm 36:5-6

"But the Lord is faithful. He will establish you and guard you against the evil one."

2 Thessalonians 3:3

Devotional

Like His steadfast love, the LORD’s devotion to us is unwavering.

God revealed His faithfulness to all who would come to trust in Him through Jesus Christ’s life, death, and resurrection.

We have every reason to have hope in God. His actions prove His unchanging character.

While we live in a world characterized by darkness and temptation, our God establishes and guards us.

God’s faithfulness is so great, it extends far beyond our limited perspective and understanding.

The Lord’s commitment to us can also be witnessed in ways we can comprehend. Each of us can testify of His steadfastness in our lives.

It remains clear, our Father fulfills His Word. As His image-bearers, we are invited to live and serve in a way that displays His faithfulness and love to the world.

Men of God

While the world may assert that men should be self-sufficient, we are designed by God to depend on His faithfulness.

Though storms may rage in our lives, we can trust the One who overcame sin, death, and the devil to establish us and guard us against the evil one as He promised.

Jesus remains the steady anchor for our souls.

He stayed faithful until the end and in Him, we can find solace in any storm.

Though we encounter trials, we can trust in the Lord's unchanging character and His commitment to save and guide us.

Application

Take a moment to reflect God’s faithfulness to you over the years. Recall instances where His love and mercy were evident. Remember how He has been true to fulfill His promises.

Express your gratitude to God for His constant devotion to you. With all the strength God supplies, make every effort to trust in Him today—in the sunshine and the storm alike. The LORD is your portion; hope in Him!

Prayer

Almighty God,

Thank You for the countless times You have proven Yourself merciful and faithful in my life.

Direct my heart to Your love and to the steadfastness of Christ.

I am in awe of Your unceasing love and unmatched intentionality.

Help me to lean on Your promises, to hope in You in all situations.

You are my portion now and forever, righteous One. Your faithfulness is my Source of comfort and confidence.

In Jesus' name, I pray. Amen.

Divine Dialogue

Pause, Listen, Record, and Respond

1 Samuel 3:10

Klein, Tanner. "Day 16: God's Great Faithfulness." Thank You, Father: 30 Days of Gratitude, Prayer, & Praise, KLEINHAUS Books, 2024, pp. 133-139.

*Thank You, Father: 30 Days of Gratitude, Prayer, & Praise - Men’s Devotional is available on Amazon: Ebook, $7.99 (or $0.00 for Kindle Unlimited) or Paperback, $13.99.* If you’ve been blessed by this devotional, you can leave a review on Amazon—that would bless me.

Jesus’ Great Commission: Who is it directed to? Does it apply to me?

In the introduction to our new GOD AT WORK IN THE WORLD series, entitled EVERY CHRISTIAN is CALLED to play a CRUCIAL ROLE in JESUS' GREAT COMMISSION, we explored the answers to some big questions related to Jesus’ Great Commission: Who is it directed to? and Does it apply to me? Why is it that we can so quickly disregard Christ’s invitation to play an active role in His beautiful plan of redemption across the world? What else did Jesus say about our role as His witnesses to the world? Now what? Should you start exploring flights to reach the unreached in Morocco or Bangladesh? and finally, Could there be more than one way to make disciple-making across the nations come to fruition? We will explore this question together and more right now. If you’d like to read, listen in, or further explore the Biblically-based answers to these questions, click the link to our introductory post below.

Now, onto Part 2!

Could there be more than one way to make disciple-making across the nations come to fruition?

The answer is: Yes!

Let’s look into the life of an ordinary man who responded to Jesus’ Great Commission.

A Case Study on William Carey

Born in 1761 in England, William Carey, a shoemaker turned mission-driven preacher, went on to write “An Inquiry Into the Obligations of Christians to Use Means for the Conversion of the Heathens,” in other words, “A study on whether Christians are responsible to actively do something to help bring the Gospel to those who’ve never heard it.” Put another way, “Should Christians take action to help reach the lost with the Gospel—and what should that look like?”

This book was a catalyst for the early modern missions movement and Willian Carey followed through on his own words and recommendations.

Now, it’s worth noting that leaving your homeland and family as a missionary was a lot less common in the late 1700s than it is today. In a day when most believers saw foreign missions as unrealistic or unnecessary, Carey was deeply convicted by the truth of Christ’s Great Commission.

He believed that those who have been entrusted with the Gospel are not only invited—but commanded—to make it known among every nation, tribe, and tongue. His faith was not theoretical—it was active.

Within a year of writing the book, Carey boarded a ship with his family and a close friend, setting sail for India, where his gospel witness would bring lasting fruit—transforming language, education, social justice, and above all, souls for Christ.

With God’s help, Carey translated the Bible into over 40 Indian languages and dialects. He founded a theological university and opened schools that welcomed women and people from lower castes, that is, the lower social classes of Hindu society. He also strongly advocated against the practice of sati in India in which a Hindu widow would ritually immolate herself on her husband's burning funeral pyre, meaning she would throw herself into the flames. By God’s grace, this practice was eventually outlawed in Carey’s lifetime.

Carey also emphasized that missions required long-term, strategic, and sacrificial efforts. In doing so, he laid the groundwork for modern missionary equipping and sending organizations.

William Carey eventually died in India in 1834. It’s clear, he responded to the Good Shepherd’s call in the Great Commission, as it is declared in Matthew 28:18-20,

18And Jesus came and said to them, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. 19 Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, 20 teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age.”

Christ’s call is clear, but does this mean every follower of Jesus is called to leave home and live overseas? Not necessarily. Nevertheless, Carey understood that missions is the work of the whole Church, not just those who go. Before departing, he famously told his friend Andrew Fuller,

“I will go down into the pit, if you will hold the rope.”

Fuller took that charge seriously. He became a key founder of the Baptist Missionary Society, working tirelessly to support Carey from England—raising funds, preaching, and stirring the hearts of believers to care about the salvation of the lost across the nations.

So, did Andrew Fuller “go”? No. But he obeyed the Christ’s call to play his part in the Great Commission. He held the rope.

Are You Faithfully Playing Your Part in the Mission of God?

All of this brings us to a deeply important question: Are you playing your part in God’s Great Commission—His call not only to reach those nearby, but to make disciples of all nations?

The command of Jesus is unmistakably clear:

Go, make disciples of all nations, baptize, and teach all that He commanded us, knowing all the while that He is with us. (Matthew 28:18-20)

This is not a special assignment for a select few—it’s the calling of every follower of Christ. We each have a role in God’s global mission. That doesn’t mean everyone is called to pack up and move overseas, but it does mean that no one is exempt from playing their part.

Holding the Rope

Not everyone goes to the nations—but everyone can hold the rope.

What that looks like may differ from one Christ follower to another, but there is a role we’re all called to take up without exception: PRAY.

William Carey once said that prayer is “perhaps the only thing in which Christians of all denominations can cordially and unreservedly unite.” Why? Because we all know this truth—salvation belongs to the Lord. Only our God can open blind eyes, soften hearts, and transform lives. And time and again, He does this in response to the prayers of His people.

Prayer is not a passive role—it’s active and powerful. It’s often the first and most essential act of partnership in missions.

Is What I’m Doing Enough?

You might wonder, “How do I know if I’m doing enough?” The answer isn’t in comparing yourself to others, but in abiding in Jesus and walking in obedience to His Spirit.

God hasn’t called you to carry the entire mission alone.

He’s called you to faithfully play your part—to obey Him where you are, and remain open and available to where He may lead. Stay attentive and responsive to your Good Shepherd.

Some plant, others water, but it is God who brings the growth (see 1 Corinthians 3:6-9).

Here Are Some Ways We Can Respond

PRAY, GIVE, GO ACROSS THE STREET, GO TO THE WORLD

First, sow seeds and water them through prayer. Our God is ready and willing to act.

Second, sow seeds and water them through generous giving. God will bring the growth. You can read 2 Corinthians 9:6-15 to remember God’s love for cheerful givers. It says in 2 Corinthians 9:6-8,

6 The point is this: whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows bountifully will also reap bountifully. 7 Each one must give as he has decided in his heart, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver. 8 And God is able to make all grace abound to you, so that having all sufficiency in all things at all times, you may abound in every good work.

Third, sow seeds and water them by going across the street. Build relationships with your neighbors and be ready to share the faith and hope you have in Christ. You have the best news ever to share. So don’t keep it from them! Ask the Lord for the grace and faith to share openly. He won’t give more than you can handle with Him. Seek opportunities to share. Knock, and He will open doors and open hearts. This is about Jesus seeking and saving the lost, not about our excellent oration or persuasion skills. Building meaningful relationships takes time, care, and intentionality. No need to rush. Simply plant seeds and water, God will bring the growth.

Fourth, sow seeds and water them by going to the world. Rather than plan your next holiday trip or vacation around your own desires, prayerfully plan a trip with the Lord. Try it. Ask Him where you should go, when, and why. As He leads you, go in faith. Know that wherever He leads you, you go as an ambassador of Christ and His Kingdom of Light. So, shine! Engage with people. Ask them how they are doing. Be real. Pray as you walk and explore. Seek to encourage people in your interactions. If you have experienced the love of God, share it! Know that it is our ever-present God who is guiding you step by step. With Him, not one interaction is random or insignificant. You’re engaging with eternal souls, meaning that through Christ at work in you, by His Spirit, you can make an eternally significant impact.

Every part matters, every seed sown and watered in faith. When over 3 billion people still have no access to the Gospel, it’s going to take the whole Church rising up in obedience together, responding to Christ’s call to fulfill His Great Commission for us.

When we live surrendered to Jesus, saying, “Here I am, Lord. Send me—have Your way, Lord, work in and through me for Your glory,” there is lasting peace and joy, even in the face of overwhelming need. The burden isn’t ours to carry alone—it is Christ’s mission. He is our Leader, our Good Shepherd. He is the One who provides. He alone saves.

We get to partner with the One who came to seek and save the lost!

How Can I Simply Share My Testimony?

I was…then Jesus…now I am…

How can you be ready to share your own personal testimony with someone else? Try this simple format.

I was…then Jesus…now I am…

I was [blank] and [blank]. Share a characteristic of the old you and another characteristic of the old you. (E.g. “I was full of shame and felt trapped” or “I was stressed and lost, pursuing what I thought would bring me happiness.”

Then Jesus [fill in the blank with how He encountered you in a particular way] and proclaim that Jesus has changed your life. (E.g. “Then Jesus met me where I was at and assured me of His love. He has transformed my life.”

Now I am [blank] and [blank]. Fill in these blanks with one of your new characteristics because of Jesus and another characteristic because of Jesus. (E.g. “Now I am free and unashamed” or “Now I am at peace and I know I am loved.”)

Speaking from personal experience, God has very recently opened the door to numerous ongoing discipleship opportunities with different people after He inspired me to simply share my own “I was…then Jesus…now I am…” testimony. This format is a power-packed tool for impact. By using it, I’ve seen God pave ways to go deeper in conversation, build lasting friendships, and share the Good News of Jesus.

I recently shared my “I was…then Jesus…now I am…” testimony with a guy who claimed to be an atheist. God used my simple testimony to inspire him to be open and honest about where he was at, including his openness to belief in God. We have continued the conversation over a few months, we’ve grown as friends, and he just let me know: “I can confidently say I am a follower of Jesus!”

Our God is so faithful and able to make His love, power, and presence known. In love for us and for the lost, our persevering Savior wants us to choose to partner with Him. Jesus is able to do extraordinary things through ordinary, willing people.

Sharing this “I was…then Jesus…now I am…” testimony takes a bit of honest vulnerability, but it makes Jesus the focal point and gives Him the glory for His transformative work in our lives. I am convinced that the Lord uses our Spirit-led vulnerability before Him and others to soften hearts and inspire others to be real and vulnerable in response.

The Gospel Transforms Lives Because Someone Is Sent

Think about it: Every follower of Christ has been reached and come to trust in Jesus because someone else faithfully stepped out in obedience. Maybe it was a parent. A friend. A preacher. A missionary. A video, podcast, or a page in a book. Whatever the case may be, someone heard the call and responded.

Likewise, if you look at places around the world today where churches now gather freely and joyfully worship Jesus, you can almost always trace their story back to someone who risked comfort—or even their life—to bring them the Gospel.

These communities didn’t arise from nothing. God sent someone.

So whether we “go down into the pit” or “hold the rope” for those who do, we do so because Christ first came for us, and now He calls us to join Him in making His name known among all peoples, languages, and nations.

Let’s live on mission together!Let’s not settle for less than what Jesus is calling us to pursue with Him.Let’s not be crushed by striving in our own strength—but instead walk in the Spirit as beloved sons and daughters of the King, trusting our Good Shepherd to lead us to do exactly what He has prepared for us to do.And let’s do it all through Christ, empowered by His Spirit—united.

Let’s play our part, for His glory, until all have heard.

We will go down into the pit, if you will hold the rope

Madison Rose & I are building a team to help mobilize us on the mission field. We can give you a call to fill you in on what God has called us to pursue.

If you’re interested in helping God’s Kingdom advance in Europe, let us know!

📧 Email: tannerklein1@gmail.com

If you were blessed or positively challenged by this, feel free to leave a comment or share it with a friend.

May the Lord bless you and inspire you to prayerfully consider what role the Lord is inviting you to play in His Great Commission. My encouragement to you, spend some undistracted time in the Lord’s presence. Don’t shy away from silence. Come ready, anticipating that our Good Shepherd is ready and willing to speak to His beloved sheep. Remember His words in John 10:3-4

“…The sheep hear his voice, and he calls his own sheep by name and leads them out. 4 When he has brought out all his own, he goes before them, and the sheep follow him, for they know his voice.”

Jesus continued in verses 14-16:

14 I am the good shepherd. I know my own and my own know me, 15 just as the Father knows me and I know the Father; and I lay down my life for the sheep. 16 And I have other sheep that are not of this fold. I must bring them also, and they will listen to my voice. So there will be one flock, one shepherd.

Our Good Shepherd says His sheep know His voice and listen to Him. By faith, bring a pen and notebook along as you pause, listen, record, and respond to the voice of your Good Shepherd. Remember, you’re not alone, as Jesus said in Matthew 28:20: “…behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age.”

TETELESTAI! IT IS FINISHED! Jesus’ last words before He bowed and gave up His spirit, recorded in the book of John, chapter 19.

28 After this, Jesus, knowing that all was now finished, said (to fulfill the Scripture), “I thirst.” 29 A jar full of sour wine stood there, so they put a sponge full of the sour wine on a hyssop branch and held it to his mouth. 30 When Jesus had received the sour wine, he said, “It is finished,” and he bowed his head and gave up his spirit. - John 19:28-30

We know this is not the end of the story. As Apostle Paul summarized in 1 Corinthians 15:3-8:

3 “For I delivered to you as of first importance what I also received: that Christ died for our sins in accordance with the Scriptures, 4 that he was buried, that he was raised on the third day in accordance with the Scriptures, 5 and that he appeared to Cephas, then to the twelve. 6 Then he appeared to more than five hundred brothers at one time, most of whom are still alive, though some have fallen asleep. 7 Then he appeared to James, then to all the apostles. 8 Last of all, as to one untimely born, he appeared also to me.”

Jesus is risen! Any of us who have a relationship with God can testify to the fact that we have a relationship with the risen King who came to serve, Jesus Christ our Lord.

But what about His last words: “It is finished,” in Greek, “Tetelestai.”

First off, tetelestai is a perfect tense verb in Greek, meaning:

“It has been finished”“It stands finished”“It will always be finished.”

Moreover, the word “tetelestai” has four distinct meanings or contexts in which it was used that help us grasp the weight of Jesus’ triumphant victory, definitively proven through His sinless life, sacrificial death, and resurrection from grave.

THE DEBT IS PAID IN FULL - The Merchant’s Receipt

Context #1: Tetelestai was written on receipts when a debt was fully paid off.

The good news for us: Our own record of sin has been nailed to the cross, stamped with the word tetelestai. We owe nothing more because Jesus paid our debt in full. It says in Colossians 2:13-15:

13 “And you, who were dead in your trespasses and the uncircumcision of your flesh, God made alive together with him, having forgiven us all our trespasses, 14 by canceling the record of debt that stood against us with its legal demands. This he set aside, nailing it to the cross. 15 He disarmed the rulers and authorities and put them to open shame, by triumphing over them in him.”

Hallelujah!

JUSTICE IS SATISFIED - The Judge’s Legal Verdict

Context #2: In courtrooms, a judge might use tetelestai to declare that a sentence was completed and justice had been fully served.

The good news for us: On the cross, God’s perfect justice against sin was satisfied in Christ. He bore our guilt, paid our penalty, and took our place.

The case is closed. The all-knowing just Judge has ruled: “Not guilty—because of Jesus.”

Romans 3:23-26 testifies:

23 “For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, 24 and are justified by his grace as a gift, through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus, 25 whom God put forward as a propitiation by his blood, to be received by faith. This was to show God's righteousness, because in his divine forbearance he had passed over former sins. 26 It was to show his righteousness at the present time, so that he might be just and the justifier of the one who has faith in Jesus.”

Hallelujah!

MISSION ACCOMPLISHED - The Servant’s Cry

Context #3: Servants used the word tetelestai to report a job completed with excellence.

The good news for us: Jesus, the King who came to serve, completed the Father's will perfectly, fulfilling the Scriptures, including every Messianic prophesy about the coming Messiah.

See Psalm 22 and Isaiah 53. The exact manner of Christ’s death on a cross were prophesied hundreds of years before His sinless life and atoning death on the cross for us.

The last words of Isaiah 53, in verse 12:

“…He poured out his soul to death and was numbered with the transgressors;yet he bore the sin of many, and makes intercession for the transgressors.”

The last words of Psalm 22, in verses 30-31:

“…it shall be told of the Lord to the coming generation; they shall come and proclaim his righteousness to a people yet unborn, that HE HAS DONE IT.”

IT IS FINISHED. JESUS HAS DONE IT. The Lord came to save sinners from eternal separation from God, to ransom and redeem us from sin, death, and darkness and deliver us into the Kingdom of the Beloved Son, Jesus, the Kingdom of Light. The King laid down His life to transform slaves into beloved sons and daughters.

Jesus won! The victory is complete! Mission accomplished!

Hallelujah!

THE SACRIFICE IS PERFECT - The Priest’s Declaration

Context #4: Tetelestai was used by priests when an offering was deemed acceptable to God.

The good news for us: Jesus, the Lamb of God without blemish, offered Himself once for all, satisfying the righteous requirement of the Law.

Hebrews 10 lays out the case for Christ as the perfect sacrifice once for all. It says in Hebrews 10:5-18:

“Consequently, when Christ came into the world, he said,

“Sacrifices and offerings you have not desired, but a body have you prepared for me;6 in burnt offerings and sin offerings you have taken no pleasure.7 Then I said, ‘Behold, I have come to do your will, O God, as it is written of me in the scroll of the book.’”

8 When he said above, “You have neither desired nor taken pleasure in sacrifices and offerings and burnt offerings and sin offerings” (these are offered according to the law), 9 then he added, “Behold, I have come to do your will.” He does away with the first in order to establish the second. 10 And by that will we have been sanctified through the offering of the body of Jesus Christ once for all.

11 And every priest stands daily at his service, offering repeatedly the same sacrifices, which can never take away sins. 12 But when Christ had offered for all time a single sacrifice for sins, he sat down at the right hand of God, 13 waiting from that time until his enemies should be made a footstool for his feet. 14 For by a single offering he has perfected for all time those who are being sanctified. 15 And the Holy Spirit also bears witness to us; for after saying,

16 “This is the covenant that I will make with them after those days, declares the Lord:I will put my laws on their hearts, and write them on their minds,”

17 then he adds,

“I will remember their sins and their lawless deeds no more.”

18 Where there is forgiveness of these, there is no longer any offering for sin.”

Hallelujah! JESUS is the perfect sacrifice for us.

JESUS IS VICTORIOUS!

Remember it, write it on the tablet of your heart, share the good news, and do not forget that:

* THE DEBT IS PAID IN FULL.

* JUSTICE IS SATISFIED.

* THE MISSION IS ACCOMPLISHED.

* THE SACRIFICE IS PERFECT.

TETELESTAI! IT IS FINISHED.

Amen! Thank You, God! Thank You, Jesus!

If you were blessed by this, feel free to leave a comment or share it with a friend. May the risen Lord, our resurrected, victorious King, bless you today.

Jesus’ Great Commission: Who is it directed to? Does it apply to me?

Welcome to a new LIFE ON MISSION series on GOD AT WORK IN THE WORLD. We’re so happy you have joined us in journeying with Jesus, living on mission, & responding to the Good Shepherd’s call and invitation in the Great Commission (Matthew 28:18-20).

18And Jesus came and said to them, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. 19 Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, 20 teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age.”

First things first: Who is Jesus talking to? And, do the words of Jesus apply to you and me?

These are two common questions in response to hearing Jesus’ commands recorded in the final verses of the book of Matthew, just before He ascended into heaven to sit at the right hand of the throne of God in glory.

Who is Jesus talking to?

Jesus was talking to His followers, His disciples. If we pledge our allegiance to Jesus, then we have become His disciples. We are like apprentices learning under the Master of masters. As Jesus’ disciples, we are to live by our Teacher’s words. Thus, Jesus’ words to His 1st century disciples are of utmost importance and relevance to us, Christ’s disciples in the 21st century. So, who is Jesus talking to? If you are a follower of Jesus, then He is talking to you.

Do the words of Jesus apply to you and me?

Yes. We Christians, Christ’s followers and ambassadors to the world, are all included in Jesus’ commands. This is not a call for certain people like “missionaries,” or a responsibility for others who feel especially “called,” this is Jesus’ invitation to His Bride, to every member of the Body of Christ.

Why is it that we can so quickly disregard Christ’s invitation to play an active role in His beautiful plan of redemption across the world?

It can be easy to take Jesus’ words and assume someone else will take up the call to respond. We turn Christ’s commands to us into what we think are His commands for the passionate Bible-loving young guy or for the multi-lingual faithful girl who’s parents were missionaries or for that family that has been preparing to go to the nations for years. “It’s for those people, not for me.” With one argument or another, we can reason away the role the Lord is inviting us to play in spreading His Good News to all nations. It can be easy to believe that as long as we play our part in our local sphere of influence, we’re exempt from having to share the Gospel or support Kingdom advancement efforts elsewhere. It can be difficult to let go of what’s normal and comfortable, especially when the Jesus’ Great Commission seems to be an obviously uncomfortable invitation.

While we may not all be called to pack our things and go to a nation like India—though some will be—we are all called to play our part in fulfilling Jesus’ Great Commission.

What else did Jesus say about our role as His witnesses to the world?

In the first chapter of Acts, we find something else Jesus said to His followers before He ascended:

“You will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you, and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth.” - Acts 1:8

Jesus also clearly stated in Matthew 24:14:

“This gospel of the kingdom will be proclaimed throughout the whole world as a testimony to all nations, and then the end will come.”

That is some holy insight from the Lord! When will Jesus come again? Only our Father in heaven knows. But what do we know must happen first, according to the Son of God? The “gospel of the kingdom will be proclaimed throughout the whole world as a testimony to all nations, and then the end will come.”

What else?

We know from Revelation 7:9-10, that a great multitude of saved souls from every nation, from all tribes and peoples and languages, will stand before King Jesus in heaven, as John testified:

9 After this I looked, and behold, a great multitude that no one could number, from every nation, from all tribes and peoples and languages, standing before the throne and before the Lamb, clothed in white robes, with palm branches in their hands, 10 and crying out with a loud voice, “Salvation belongs to our God who sits on the throne, and to the Lamb!”

O Lord our God, inspire us to play our set apart role in making Your name and fame known to the nations.

I hope we can more clearly see: the Great Commission is for every follower of Jesus. Since all authority in heaven and on earth has been given to Jesus our Lord and King, as His ambassadors and as the Body of Christ, we are togo and make disciples of all nations; we baptize them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit; we teach them to observe all that Jesus has commanded us; and we keep our eyes on Jesus, who is with us always, working in and through us to do what pleases Him. This is the goal set by the Lord for all Christians, not just for missionaries.

So now what?

This may ruffle some feathers. This may confront established beliefs and ideas about the role we are to play in God’s plan of redemption. It might even interrupt some expertly devised career, savings, investment, and retirement plans. I can relate from personal experience.

Should you start exploring flights to reach the unreached in Morocco or Bangladesh?

If God wills, then for some of us, maybe, but for many of us, maybe not.

Could there be more than one way to make disciple-making across the nations come to fruition?

Yes! More to come on this in our next post, scheduled for Monday, April 21, the day after Resurrection Day.

If you were blessed or positively challenged by this, feel free to leave a comment or share it with a friend.

May the Lord bless you and inspire you to prayerfully consider what role the Lord is inviting you to play in His Great Commission. My encouragement to you, spend some undistracted time in the Lord’s presence. Don’t shy away from silence. Come ready, anticipating that our Good Shepherd is ready and willing to speak to His beloved sheep. Remember His words in John 10:3-4

“…The sheep hear his voice, and he calls his own sheep by name and leads them out. 4 When he has brought out all his own, he goes before them, and the sheep follow him, for they know his voice.”

Jesus continued in verses 14-16:

14 I am the good shepherd. I know my own and my own know me, 15 just as the Father knows me and I know the Father; and I lay down my life for the sheep. 16 And I have other sheep that are not of this fold. I must bring them also, and they will listen to my voice. So there will be one flock, one shepherd.

Our Good Shepherd says His sheep know His voice and listen to Him. By faith, bring a pen and notebook along as you pause, listen, record, and respond to the voice of your Good Shepherd. Remember, you’re not alone, as Jesus said in Matthew 28:20: “…behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age.”

God is at work in Paris 🇫🇷💡

Thanks for joining in praying for this set apart city. Paris needs prayer. My daily reminder to “Pray for Paris 🇫🇷” rings at 4:44 PM. Feel free to set a calendar alert or alarm reminder to Pray for Paris 🇫🇷 at 4:44 PM. We can pray in faith together! If not then, pick another time and cover this city in faith-filled prayer. Before I pray in English and in French, here’s a quick note about God at work in Paris.

While there are so many lost souls in this dark, spiritual desert, that doesn’t mean it will stay that way. I am convinced that God will redeem this city for the sake of Christ, the Gospel, His people, and the Kingdom of God. I know Christ is the Light of the world. He said in John 8:12, “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will not walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.” That is good news for those who trust in and follow Jesus. Our Good Shepherd also calls us the light of the world in Matthew 5:14-16 saying:

14 “You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden. 15 Nor do people light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a stand, and it gives light to all in the house. 16 In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven.”

As the Lord dwells in the hearts of His people through faith, His Spirit shines the light of Christ through us. John 1:5 says about Jesus, 4 “In him was life, and the life was the light of men. 5 The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.” A big problem remains: there are many lost sheep wandering in the darkness in and around Paris, yet to be welcomed into the covenant family of God. There are also many believers in God who are hiding their lamps under baskets. It’s true, there is much to be redeemed in the city of lights, in the hearts of the Bride of Christ and of the lost wandering in darkness.

Even still, the light of Christ is shining and shining brightly through numerous faith-filled sons and daughters across the city. The Lord is building His church in Paris, and there’s nothing the gates of hell can do to stop Him. I hope and pray that God stirs your heart to pray for the people and city of Paris, and as you do, that the Lord would grant you more of His heart and love for the city and its inhabitants. There is hope for Paris, even Paris, and it is found in Jesus Christ, the conquering King of kings and Lord of lords. Hallelujah!

Let’s Pray!

Lord our Creator,

Holy, holy, holy are You. Thank You for knitting us together in our mothers’ wombs as you attentively and lovingly shaped us into being. Thank You for caring for us all our days and years, regardless of our awareness of You. Thank You for Your steadfast love for us shown through the life, death, & resurrection of Your Son Jesus. Thank You for the countless ways you have proven your love to us in ways we have not even see or noticed. Though times and seasons change, You remain the same, steadfast Savior. Your love satisfies. We celebrate You, Lord our God.

Lord Jesus, may Your name be glorified and exalted across Paris and beyond throughout this holy week.

We uplift the church in Paris and all our local churches and communities to You, Good Shepherd.

We pray for pastors and preachers of the Good News to remain undistracted in seeking You first this week. May they sit at your feet and abide in You, merciful Savior. May they truly be satisfied and find all they need for their hearts, souls, and minds in You, Lord Jesus. May they proclaim Your victorious resurrection from hearts overflowing with love and experiential knowledge of You, Resurrected King.

We pray for unity in the church and among all those serving on and leading up to Easter Sunday. We ask that there would be no room for harboring offense or division as your people stay rooted in You, the Vine, and serve out of love for Jesus and for their neighbors. May we be one as You and the Father are one, Lord Jesus.

May the joy of the Lord be the strength of all those who volunteer. May those seeking to prepare the way for others to encounter Jesus be blessed and refreshed in Your presence. In Your presence, there is fullness of joy.

We pray that Jesus would be on the center stage of our hearts and of all the church does this week. You are the King of kings and Lord of lords, the King of our hearts and Lord of our lives. Empower us as Your Bride to serve and live like this is our reality. More than seeking to perform, may our desire be to be faithful to You, Lord. May Your love motivate us to make known Your name and fame, not ours. May we work and serve not by our own limited strength, but by Your Spirit.

May Christ Jesus be celebrated and any cynicism be cut off. Keep us pure in heart. Inspire childlike faith and hope in us. May we be the most excited to share the Good News of Jesus, the best news ever. May fear of man be replaced by fear of the Lord and deep love for You, Lord, so that we may joyfully share the Gospel and freely invite people to come celebrate our risen Servant-King.

May all who come to Easter services be present in heart, soul, and mind. Keep us from allowing distractions that would keep us from experiencing all You want for us, Lord.

We pray that the Gospel would be proclaimed simply and clearly in full. We pray that not a single messenger of the Gospel would leave out the reality of both Christ’s death on the cross for the forgiveness of our sins and His rising again to new resurrection life that we now share with Him. Thank You, Father, for reconciling us to You and restoring our relationship through Christ’s sacrifice.

In Your grace, we pray that all newcomers and guests would experience the love and hospitality of Your Kingdom, God Almighty. May the Bride of Christ clearly show Your love and hospitality, so much so that people would feel not like outsiders, but like they belong to a family, to Your eternal family.

We pray for multitudes to receive the offer of salvation through faith in Christ, repent, and cling to You as their only Savior and Lord. May prodigal children come home and find themselves welcomed into their Father’s loving arms.

Loving Lord, keep us from going through the motions this week and on Resurrection Sunday. Keep us from growing familiar with the Good News of Jesus. Rather, may we grow in Christ as transformed sons and daughters of God, renewing our minds daily in the Truth, and growing in our love for You, Lord our God. May we worship You in spirit and in truth, in word and in deed.

Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable in your sight, O Lord, my Rock and my Redeemer.

We pray in the transformative, life-giving name of Jesus Christ our Savior, Lord, and King.

Amen. Thank You, Lord!

Prions (en français)! 🇫🇷

Seigneur, notre Créateur,

Saint, saint, saint es-Tu. Merci de nous avoir tissés dans le ventre de notre mère, alors que Tu nous façonnais avec soin et amour. Merci de prendre soin de nous tout au long de nos jours et de nos années, peu importe notre conscience de Toi. Merci pour Ton amour fidèle manifesté par la vie, la mort et la résurrection de Ton Fils Jésus. Merci pour les innombrables façons dont Tu as prouvé Ton amour envers nous, même quand nous ne les avons pas vues ou remarquées. Bien que les temps et les saisons changent, Toi, Tu restes le même, Sauveur fidèle. Ton amour satisfait pleinement. Nous Te célébrons, Seigneur notre Dieu.

Seigneur Jésus, que Ton nom soit glorifié et exalté à travers Paris et au-delà durant cette semaine sainte.

Nous remettons entre Tes mains l’Église à Paris, ainsi que toutes nos églises locales et communautés, Bon Berger.

Nous prions pour que les pasteurs et prédicateurs de la Bonne Nouvelle restent focalisés sur Toi cette semaine. Qu’ils s’asseyent à Tes pieds et demeurent en Toi, Sauveur miséricordieux. Qu’ils soient véritablement comblés et trouvent tout ce dont ils ont besoin pour leur cœur, leur âme et leur esprit en Toi, Seigneur Jésus. Qu’ils proclament Ta résurrection victorieuse avec des cœurs débordants d’amour et de connaissance vécue de Toi, Roi ressuscité.

Nous prions pour l’unité dans l’Église et parmi tous ceux qui servent ou se préparent pour le dimanche de Pâques. Nous demandons qu’il n’y ait aucun lieu pour l’offense ou la division, alors que Ton peuple demeure enraciné en Toi, le Cep, et qu’il serve par amour pour Jésus et pour son prochain. Que nous soyons un comme Toi et le Père êtes un, Seigneur Jésus.

Que la joie du Seigneur soit la force de tous les bénévoles. Que ceux qui cherchent à préparer le chemin pour que d’autres rencontrent Jésus soient bénis et renouvelés dans Ta présence. Car en Ta présence, il y a abondance de joie.

Nous prions pour que Jésus soit au centre de nos cœurs et de tout ce que l’Église accomplit cette semaine. Tu es le Roi des rois et le Seigneur des seigneurs, le Roi de nos cœurs et le Seigneur de nos vies. Fortifie-nous, en tant qu’Épouse, à vivre et servir selon cette réalité. Plus que chercher à bien faire, que notre désir soit de Te rester fidèles, Seigneur. Que Ton amour nous pousse à faire connaître Ton nom et Ta renommée, et non les nôtres. Que nous travaillions et servions non par nos forces limitées, mais par Ton Esprit.

Que Jésus-Christ soit célébré, et que tout cynisme soit coupé à la racine. Garde nos cœurs purs. Inspire en nous une foi et une espérance d’enfant. Que nous soyons les plus enthousiastes à partager la Bonne Nouvelle de Jésus, la meilleure nouvelle qui soit. Que la crainte des hommes soit remplacée par la crainte de l’Éternel et un profond amour pour Toi, Seigneur, afin que nous partagions l’Évangile avec joie et que nous invitions librement les gens à venir célébrer notre Roi-Serviteur ressuscité.

Que tous ceux qui viennent aux cultes de Pâques soient présents de cœur, d’âme et d’esprit. Garde-nous des distractions qui pourraient nous éloigner de tout ce que Tu veux nous faire vivre, Seigneur.

Nous prions pour que l’Évangile soit proclamé simplement, clairement et dans son entièreté. Nous prions pour qu’aucun messager de l’Évangile ne néglige la réalité de la mort de Christ sur la croix pour le pardon de nos péchés, ni Sa résurrection à la vie nouvelle, que nous partageons désormais avec Lui. Merci, Père, de nous avoir réconciliés avec Toi et d’avoir restauré notre relation à travers le sacrifice de Christ.

Dans Ta grâce, nous prions pour que tous les nouveaux venus et les invités fassent l’expérience de l’amour et de l’hospitalité de Ton Royaume, Dieu Tout-Puissant. Que l’Épouse de Christ reflète clairement Ton amour et Ton accueil, à tel point que les gens ne se sentent pas comme des étrangers, mais comme faisant partie d’une famille — de Ta famille éternelle.

Nous prions pour que des multitudes reçoivent l’offre de salut par la foi en Christ, se repentent et s’attachent à Toi comme leur unique Sauveur et Seigneur. Que les enfants prodigues rentrent à la maison et se retrouvent dans les bras aimants de leur Père.

Seigneur d’amour, garde-nous de simplement faire les choses par habitude cette semaine et le dimanche de la Résurrection. Empêche-nous de nous habituer à la Bonne Nouvelle de Jésus. Fais-nous plutôt croître en Christ comme fils et filles de Dieu transformés, renouvelant nos pensées chaque jour dans la Vérité et grandissant dans notre amour pour Toi, Seigneur notre Dieu. Que nous T’adorions en esprit et en vérité, en paroles et en actions.

Que les paroles de ma bouche et les méditations de mon cœur Te soient agréables, ô Éternel, mon rocher et mon rédempteur.

Nous prions au nom de Jésus-Christ, notre Sauveur, Seigneur et Roi — nom qui transforme et donne la vie.

Amen. Merci, Seigneur !

Share this with a friend and keep praying!

Thank you for praying with me. I trust the Lord hears our prayers in faith!

Thank You, Lord!

More prayers like this coming soon. Stay tuned and keep praying! As it says in 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18,

16 Rejoice always, 17 pray without ceasing, 18 give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.

Feel free to let me know how we can be praying for you. If you were blessed by this prayer or this publishing ministry, share it with a friend. Spread the word.

lifeonmissiontannerklein.substack.com

I am trusting God to impact many souls through this ministry. May the resurrected Lord bless you as you celebrate Him this holy week.

Meditation on the Word

Psalm 99

1 The Lord reigns; let the peoples tremble! He sits enthroned upon the cherubim; let the earth quake!2 The Lord is great in Zion; he is exalted over all the peoples.3 Let them praise your great and awesome name! Holy is he!4 The King in his might loves justice. You have established equity;you have executed justice and righteousness in Jacob.5 Exalt the Lord our God; worship at his footstool! Holy is he!

6 Moses and Aaron were among his priests, Samuel also was among those who called upon his name. They called to the Lord, and he answered them.7 In the pillar of the cloud he spoke to them; they kept his testimonies and the statute that he gave them.

8 O Lord our God, you answered them; you were a forgiving God to them, but an avenger of their wrongdoings.9 Exalt the Lord our God, and worship at his holy mountain; for the Lord our God is holy!

- Psalm 99 (ESV)

Psalm 100

1 Make a joyful noise to the Lord, all the earth!2 Serve the Lord with gladness! Come into his presence with singing!

3 Know that the Lord, he is God! It is he who made us, and we are his; we are his people, and the sheep of his pasture.

4 Enter his gates with thanksgiving, and his courts with praise! Give thanks to him; bless his name!

5 For the Lord is good; his steadfast love endures forever, and his faithfulness to all generations.

- Psalm 100 (ESV)

Psalm 99 again

1 The Lord reigns; let the peoples tremble! He sits enthroned upon the cherubim; let the earth quake!2 The Lord is great in Zion; he is exalted over all the peoples.3 Let them praise your great and awesome name! Holy is he!4 The King in his might loves justice. You have established equity;you have executed justice and righteousness in Jacob.5 Exalt the Lord our God; worship at his footstool! Holy is he!

6 Moses and Aaron were among his priests, Samuel also was among those who called upon his name. They called to the Lord, and he answered them.7 In the pillar of the cloud he spoke to them; they kept his testimonies and the statute that he gave them.

8 O Lord our God, you answered them; you were a forgiving God to them, but an avenger of their wrongdoings.9 Exalt the Lord our God, and worship at his holy mountain; for the Lord our God is holy!

- Psalm 99 (ESV)

Psalm 100 again

1 Make a joyful noise to the Lord, all the earth!2 Serve the Lord with gladness! Come into his presence with singing!

3 Know that the Lord, he is God! It is he who made us, and we are his; we are his people, and the sheep of his pasture.

4 Enter his gates with thanksgiving, and his courts with praise! Give thanks to him; bless his name!

5 For the Lord is good; his steadfast love endures forever, and his faithfulness to all generations.

- Psalm 100 (ESV)

My Prayer

Lord our God, King of heaven and earth, You reign; let all the nations tremble! You sit enthroned upon the cherubim; let the earth quake!Lord, You are great and greatly to be praised; You alone are exalted over all the peoples.Let every tribe, tongue, and nation praise your great and awesome name! Holy, holy, holy are You, Lord God Almighty!

Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace, Mighty God, Wonderful Counselor, You are just and You love justice. You have established equity;you have executed justice and righteousness.We exalt You, Lord our God; we worship at Your footstool! Holy, holy, holy are You!

Thank You for Your Son, Jesus, the Great High Priest; He called to the LORD, and You answered Him, Father.You spoke from heaven, saying, “This is my beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased; listen to him.” (Matthew 17:5).

Jesus was faithful to keep Your testimonies and every instruction You gave Him.

You are the Lord who hears and answers; You are gracious in Your forgiveness and just in Your judgement of sin.

We exalt You, Lord our God, and bow in reverence to You, for You are holy, Lord our God!

May all the earth celebrate Your name and fame, awesome God! By Your Spirit, we will serve You with gladness, Lord! In Your presence their is fullness of joy; our hearts long to be satisfied in You.

How can we not sing Your praises in Your presence?

The Lord, our Lord, is God! You made us, and we are Yours; we are Your people, and the sheep of Your pasture, Good Shepherd.

We enter Your gates with thanksgiving, and Your courts with praise!

Thank You for welcoming us to seek You; thank You for making Yourself available to us, Mighty One.

Thank You for Your joy and peace; Your name is a strong tower, the righteous run to it and are safe (Proverbs 18:10).

Your name is above every other name. It is written,

“As I live, says the Lord, every knee shall bow to me, and every tongue shall confess to God” (Romans 14:11).

Hallelujah! Lord you are good; Your steadfast love endures forever, and Your faithfulness endures to all generations.

We celebrate Your glorious name and proclaim Your fame, in the name of Jesus.

Amen.

We’re laying the groundwork for God’s beautiful design for faith-filled work, service, and worship. More to come on: Avodah with God; Why does it matter to God? and What does it mean for us?

In the initial Introduction to AVODAH WITH GOD: Working with God, God's Way, we dove into Understanding Avodah with God, Avodah: A Word That Changes Everything, What is the equivalent to Avodah in the New Testament? and we came to the conclusion that based on God’s Word, it is clear that we are designed to “avad with God,” that is, to work with, serve, and worship Him. We unveiled that avodah with God is not just from 9-5, or as a volunteer every so often, or on Sunday mornings. It is our response in faith to who God is and all He has done. Even more, we are designed for meaningful work and worshipful acts of devotion over the long run. We established that avodah with God is about God’s children walking in a manner worthy of their calling, utilizing their gifts, time, and talents to serve God by serving others, and glorifying God through their work. Our God cares. Our God sees, and our God is for us, working in us, ready and willing to give us both the desire and the ability to do what pleases Him.

If you didn’t get a chance to read or listen in to our first Introduction to AVODAH WITH GOD: Working with God, God's Way, or if you would like to learn more, feel free to click this link below:

In Part 2 of our Introduction to AVODAH WITH GOD: Working with God, God's Way, we covered the reality that Work Was Always Sacred. We looked to the Scriptures to discover God’s good design for humanity to avad with Him in the beginning, well before the Fall of Adam and Eve. We explored other Scriptures which help us better grasp God’s view on work and the invitation for us to choose this day who we will avad. Will we work with the LORD and partner with Him? Will we serve the LORD? Will we worship the LORD our God today? Our alignment with God’s perfect will, Word, and design, or lack thereof, can help to explain why we can feel so disillusioned with our work.

We also discussed how Jesus’ actions reveal what He truly believed about working in a section entitled: Jesus, a Carpenter, and You. We asked the questions: How do you imagine Jesus was as a carpenter? and What was Jesus like as an apprentice or as a student? Based on God’s unchanging character, we concluded that we can know that Jesus modeled avodah with God—from His earlier years at synagogue school, through the years as an apprentice and as a carpenter-craftsman, all the way through His three-year public ministry. Jesus modeled working, serving, and living with faithfulness, diligence, intentionality, wholeheartedness, sincerity, focus, enthusiasm, awareness, integrity, and excellence. That leads us to better understand: if Jesus’ work was meaningful, worshipful, and pleasing to His Father in heaven, then our work too is meant to be meaningful, worshipful, and pleasing to our Father in heaven.

We established that avodah with God is not accidental, absent-minded, or independent. Rather, we are to work with God, to partner with God, and rely on His leadership, strength, and wisdom. We acknowledged that working with God, God’s way, is not normal. This is countercultural work. It is utterly unusual relative to the way almost everyone works—the world’s way. Nevertheless, avodah with God, God’s way, is the best way. It is the most satisfying, fulfilling, and meaningful way. It is glorious, challenging, and worthwhile.

If you didn’t get a chance to read or listen in to our second Introduction to AVODAH WITH GOD: Working with God, God's Way, or if you would like to learn more, feel free to click this link below:

Now, onto Part 3!

The Call to Reimagine Work with God

Let’s go deep, shall we? We need God’s help to identify and realign our perspectives on work as we learn to better partner with God, working with God, His way.

Wherever we land on the spectrum of beliefs about work and our role in it, whether we loathe Mondays, couldn’t care less, or place our identity in what we do, we all have room to better align our perspectives and beliefs with God’s will, Word, and design.

For most of us, we’re spending half of our waking hours working for the majority of our lives. If we can align our beliefs with God’s will, Word, and design, we can leave behind mundane toil and idolatry alike and experience the presence, grace, and power of God as we partner with Him daily.

The sooner we do, the better. While this is urgent, it’s a process of learning to work with God, His way, while we unlearn and relinquish our ingrained beliefs and ways of working that are aligned with the world’s ways. This takes time.

Good thing the Lord is patient and faithful in His commitment to our sanctification. In particular, our gracious God is committed to shaping us into the likeness of Jesus, over the course of our lives. While we can seek to fight against the Lord’s loving guidance and conviction, it is an exercise in futility. It’s a fruitless pursuit.

I’ve found that the quicker I am to accept and receive God’s correction, the sweeter life with Jesus becomes. The reminder is needed: God’s words and ways are true and life-giving. For those who follow Jesus, who have placed their confidence in Christ, there is no condemnation (See Romans 8:1). That is good news. Moreover, in love, our God has a beautiful way of disciplining and reshaping the affections and beliefs of His kids, so our actions can better reflect Christ to the world around us and share in His holiness.

It says in Hebrews 12:5-11,

5 “And have you forgotten the exhortation that addresses you as sons?

“My son, do not regard lightly the discipline of the Lord, nor be weary when reproved by him.6 For the Lord disciplines the one he loves, and chastises every son whom he receives.”

7 It is for discipline that you have to endure. God is treating you as sons. For what son is there whom his father does not discipline? 8 If you are left without discipline, in which all have participated, then you are illegitimate children and not sons. 9 Besides this, we have had earthly fathers who disciplined us and we respected them. Shall we not much more be subject to the Father of spirits and live? 10 For they disciplined us for a short time as it seemed best to them, but he disciplines us for our good, that we may share his holiness. 11 For the moment all discipline seems painful rather than pleasant, but later it yields the peaceful fruit of righteousness to those who have been trained by it.”

This is radical relative to the way most of us view discipline from God. Yet, it is clear that our God shapes and refines us in love for us,

“And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose.” - Romans 8:28

It is interesting to consider, our actions really do reveal what we believe. For example, if we believe our work is meaningless, we’re likely to lose focus, procrastinate, and countdown the hours till we finally get to leave. Unhappiness and burnout are on the horizon.

If we believe our work or position defines who we are, we’re likely to act in pride, fear failure, and neglect other key priorities. Comparison, stress, and selfishness can dominate one’s mind.

However, if we believe we are designed to “avad with God,” that is, to work with, serve, and worship Him, our actions will follow. We’re likely to find a strong sense of meaning in whatever we do, knowing we get to glorify God. We experience peace and confidence in our identity, secure in Christ. We’re more likely to choose the difficult, right choice over the easy decision we know is wrong. We’re quicker to serve others and lead with compassion, kindness, and humility. We’re much more likely to experience and express gratitude, seeing our role as a gift from God and an opportunity to make a positive impact in the short- and long-term. We find strength from God to endure and navigate challenges with trust in the Lord. We walk with purpose, integrity, and joy. In sum, we’re more likely to develop a faith-filled, God-fearing, Christ-centered perspective.

I’ve found that what we do with the time given to us reveals what we truly prioritize, what we value most. It’s not our words but our actions over the course of the day that truly reveal our beliefs.

Think about this: Show me how you make use of the time given to you and I can tell you what you believe and value most.

This may challenge us. It begs the questions: Beyond what I say I believe, what do my actions reveal about what I actually believe? Where is there misalignment and what should I do to align my beliefs with my decisions? How can I devote time and energy to the things that truly matter most?

We may need to sit down with the Lover of our souls and spend some time prayerfully considering how our time spent reflects what we value most. It’s worth noting that this requires trust in God’s steadfast love and care to redirect us from misaligned and wrong beliefs, perspectives, and ways of thinking.

As recorded in the book of John 16:7-11, Jesus Himself said of the Holy Spirit,

“I tell you the truth: it is to your advantage that I go away, for if I do not go away, the Helper will not come to you. But if I go, I will send him to you. 8 And when he comes, he will convict the world concerning sin and righteousness and judgment: 9 concerning sin, because they do not believe in me; 10 concerning righteousness, because I go to the Father, and you will see me no longer; 11 concerning judgment, because the ruler of this world is judged.”

Jesus thereafter said in John 16:13-15,

13 “When the Spirit of truth comes, he will guide you into all the truth, for he will not speak on his own authority, but whatever he hears he will speak, and he will declare to you the things that are to come. 14 He will glorify me, for he will take what is mine and declare it to you. 15 All that the Father has is mine; therefore I said that he will take what is mine and declare it to you.”

We have this priceless gift from God, His own Spirit, alive and active, working in and through us—in all who have trusted in Jesus as Savior and Lord. We have the Holy Spirit as our Helper, convicting us where we need correction and guiding us into all the truth.

1 John 1:8-9 says that,

8 “If we say we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us. 9 If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.”

Our God’s love for us is unmatched. He is faithful and just to forgive our sins because He bore the punishment for our sins upon Himself and overcame the power of sin on the cross. Our God is able and willing to reorient and align our perspectives and ways with the truth, according to His perfect will, Word, and design.

So, if we’re called to live according to God’s will, following the way of Jesus, then it’s clear that we are called to avad according to God’s will, following the way of Jesus. I find it extremely encouraging to know that we’re not alone to figure all this out on our own, rather, we know from Philippians 2:13 that “it is God who works in [us], both to will and to work for his good pleasure.”

Let’s Practice Reimagining Work with God

What’s the goal?

Working with God, God’s way; that is the goal.

Where do we begin?

First, we must learn to accept God’s words and perspective on our lives and work as the truth.

Jesus’ Himself said: “If you abide in my word, you are truly my disciples, and you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.” - John 8:31-32

On the other hand, fighting against God’s will, Word, & design is not helpful for us or for others; that is a pointless, frustrating battle we will not win.

Furthermore, working with God, serving God, and worshiping God will not be nearly as life-giving and powerful if we have a small view of our God who longs to partner with us.

For example, if we don’t trust God to be who He has revealed Himself to be in His Word, the Bible, then we will not work like the one true, living God is with us, inspiring and empowering us to make an eternal impact on eternal souls.

However, if we do trust the Lord is who He says He is, and we come to recognize that the living God truly is with us and in us, working through us to accomplish His good and great plans and purposes for us, for others, and for His glory, then we will live and work accordingly.

With trust in the Lord, we can embrace working as vessels of God’s Spirit, as ambassadors of Christ and the Kingdom of Light, impacting the souls around us in ways only God could impact them. With trust in the Lord, we can also freely acknowledge and give due credit to the One who is working in and through us to accomplish His will.

The Who, What, Where, When, Why, How of our Avodah

With whom and for whom do we avad?

We avad with God.

While God doesn’t need our service, He invites us to partner with Him in response to His love shown to us in innumerable ways. We don’t just do things for God as though He owes us a favor or material blessings. The living God owes us nothing, yet in love, He offered His precious Son to take our place on the cross. Because of Christ’s sacrifice for us, we have abundant life in and through Him. Our God has definitively proven His love for us through Jesus. Yet, our God doesn’t just put up with us, He loves us with an everlasting love. He shows us mercy and grace daily. The King of kings and Lord of lords welcomes us to His table. He knows us and calls us by name. He provides for our needs and makes Himself available to us. He calls us sons and daughters, and treats us as His dearly beloved kids. He honors us with His presence and works powerfully through us to accomplish what seems impossible through His Holy Spirit. We are among the most blessed in all creation, throughout all time. We have a relationship with the living God, our Creator.

The Lord, our Good Shepherd, invites us to partner with Him. Our all-powerful, all-knowing, ever-present King is not distant or far off, He is with us and in us through His Spirit, so we can do all He calls us to do and be all He calls us to be.

With God, we can embrace a faith-filled “growth mindset.” Jesus Himself said, “with God all things are possible” (Matthew 19:26).

In our work and service, we get to partner with the King of kings—the Lover of our souls, the creative Designer of all, the Source of wisdom, strength, grace, & all we need. We partner with the One who desires to work with us and through us to make a lasting impact.

What is considered avodah? What does avodah include?

Colossians 3:23-24 says,

“Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men, knowing that from the Lord you will receive the inheritance as your reward. You are serving the Lord Christ.”

We can avad with God through our day in whatever we do. As we discussed previously, avodah is not restricted to acts of service that seem especially holy. It could range from your day job and household chores, to Sunday morning worship, hosting a community group, and everything in between.

When do we avad?

Daily. As we just were reminded of Colossians 3:23-24, we get to serve the Lord Christ as we heartily work as for the Lord in whatever we do.

When we serve others through our work, we serve God.

*An important note:

The call to “avad with God” does not negate the fact that we are to rest and we find real rest in the Lord. God’s Word reveals His will and design for our partnership with Him, but it does not endorse workaholism or making an idol of busyness.

According to Blue Letter Bible, the Hebrew word šāḇaṯ (שָׁבַת) (pronounced shaw-bath'), that is, to cease, desist, or rest, is mentioned 71x in the Old Testament.

In the New Testament, Jesus Himself said,

28 “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest (anapauō). 29 Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. 30 For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.” - Matthew 11:28-30

Where do we avad?

Our workplace is our mission field, as are our homes, neighborhoods, towns, and cities.

If there are other people involved in our work, that means there are eternal souls God can impact through us for their good and for His glory.

We are ambassadors of Christ. We represent Jesus and His Kingdom wherever we are, in all that we say and do.

Why do we avad?

God designed for relationship with Him. As we avad with God, we get to engage in meaningful work and worshipful acts of devotion over the long run. As God’s children, we get to walk in a manner worthy of our calling and utilize the gifts, time, and talents God’s given us to serve the Lord by serving others and glorify Jesus through our work.

Our God sees. Our God cares.

Our heart posture, both why and how we work, serve, and worship, matters deeply to God. Our daily details—no matter how mundane—matter to God.

Our jobs aren’t just a way to make money, or just a “necessary evil,” or the most important part of our identity. Instead, our jobs provide us a platform to glorify God daily as we represent Jesus and His Kingdom of Light to the world around us.

Now if we have been saved by grace through faith in Jesus; if we confess that Jesus is our Savior and Lord, and we believe in His sinless life, atoning death, and resurrection from the dead, then do our decisions and actions really matter to God?

Yes! Our works do not save us. It is by grace through faith in Jesus that we are saved. That is very good news. Nevertheless, we are accountable to the Lord. We will all give an account to Him of what we have done when we meet Him face to face.

It says in Romans 14:10-12,

10 Why do you pass judgment on your brother? Or you, why do you despise your brother? For we will all stand before the judgment seat of God; 11 for it is written,

“As I live, says the Lord, every knee shall bow to me, and every tongue shall confess to God.”

12 So then each of us will give an account of himself to God.

Again, we are reminded that no one is exempt from giving an account of our actions to God in Hebrews 4:13,

“No creature is hidden from his sight, but all are naked and exposed to the eyes of him to whom we must give account.”

Our work and efforts in this life will be exposed to the light, made visible before God, and tested with fire. It says in 1 Corinthians 3:12-14,

12 “Now if anyone builds on the foundation with gold, silver, precious stones, wood, hay, straw— 13 each one's work will become manifest, for the Day will disclose it, because it will be revealed by fire, and the fire will test what sort of work each one has done. 14 If the work that anyone has built on the foundation survives, he will receive a reward.”

How can we avad?

Here are just a few ways we can practice avad with God.

Acknowledge that we are stewards, not owners, of the gifts God has given us, including our jobs, roles, time, efforts, finances, bodies, physical health, and families. The very breath in our lungs is a gift from God who sustains our lives. We know from James 1:17 that,

“Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of lights, with whom there is no variation or shadow due to change.”

Through Christ and His Spirit working in us, we really can please God through our efforts, “for it is God who works in [us], both to will and to work for his good pleasure.” - Philippians 2:13

As it says in Romans 12:11, “Do not be slothful in zeal, be fervent in spirit, serve the Lord.”

Put reminders in place to stay aware of Jesus’ promise in Matthew 28:20: “I am with you always, to the end of the age.”

Be content with God’s provision, fear the Lord, don’t fear man—our God will never leave us nor forsakes us.

As it says in Hebrews 13:5-6, “Keep your life free from love of money, and be content with what you have, for he has said, “I will never leave you nor forsake you.” So we can confidently say, “The Lord is my helper; I will not fear; what can man do to me?”

Pray before, during, and after your work.

E.g. Dedicate your workday or next 30 minute work block to the Lord. Pray before you meetup with a colleague for lunch and pray before you join your next meeting. Pray after the work day is done and seek the Lord’s counsel on what went well, what can be adjusted, key takeaways, next steps, etc.

Paul sums it up like this in Colossians 3:17,

“Whatever you do, in word or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.”

This is the call to reimagine the way we work and begin to practice working with God, God’s way. This is a strong encouragement to stop seeing work as “just a job,” a “necessary evil,” or a source of pride, and start seeing our work as our opportunity to partner with the living God, to work with Him, serve Him, and worship Him in spirit and in truth.

This is a process, a journey of learning to rethink things and respond to God’s will, Word, and design. It takes time, but why not try embracing this now. Why wait and continue down the path of decades of seemingly endless work drudgery?

What if, by Monday morning, you woke up and instead of dreading work, you saw it as a new opportunity to be salt and light in the workplace?

What if you treated your emails, your parenting, your meetings, your commute—as an offering to God?

What if you submitted your ideas and plans to God and sought to respond to His direction and plan for you?

What if you really believed that your work matters to your Creator?

In God’s eyes, you matter, and the way you partner with Him matters.

That changes everything.

Thanks for following along with us in this series on AVODAH WITH GOD: Working with God, God's Way. There is more to come on The Heart and the How behind Avodah, taking inspiration from Christ Jesus Himself.

If you were blessed by this, please do share it with a friend! May God bless you.

This free devotional comes from my book, Thank You, Father: 30 Days of Gratitude, Prayer, & Praise - Men’s Devotional, available on Amazon: Ebook, $7.99 (or $0.00 for Kindle Unlimited) or Paperback, $13.99. If you’ve been blessed by this devotional, you can leave a review on Amazon—that would bless me.

Day 15: The LORD’s Proven Protection

"He who dwells in the shelter of the Most High will abide in the shadow of the Almighty. I will say to the LORD, 'My refuge and my fortress, my God, in whom I trust.' For he will deliver you from the snare of the fowler and from the deadly pestilence. He will cover you with his pinions, and under his wings, you will find refuge; his faithfulness is a shield and buckler."

Psalm 91:1-4

"The angel of the LORD encamps around those who fear him and delivers them. Oh, taste and see that the LORD is good! Blessed is the man who takes refuge in him!"

Psalm 34:7-8

"God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. Therefore we will not fear though the earth gives way, though the mountains be moved into the heart of the sea."

Psalm 46:1-2

Devotional

The LORD, God Almighty, is our paramount Protector.

He is faithful and able to shield and deliver us from the fiery trials we face.

Though storms may rage and circumstances look grim, we can find refuge and strength in our steadfast Savior.

Jesus said: “In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world” (John 16:33).

Because of His constant presence, we can find comfort and courage to endure and overcome with the strength He provides.

Men of God

In life, we face threats, uncertainties, and countless opportunities to worry.

How should we respond?

These verses remind us that the Almighty’s protection is constant and trustworthy for all who trust in Him.

If we fear the LORD alone, we have no reason to fear anyone or anything else.

Holy reverence, wholehearted trust, and humility are right responses to our awesome God.

His perfect love casts out all other fears.

The man who takes refuge in our Savior is blessed and strengthened.

Gratitude for God's protection reminds our souls that we can face challenges with confidence, knowing that the LORD is with us.

We are secure in His care.

Application

Take a moment to pause and thank God for His sovereign protection in your life. Reflect on the times He shielded you from harm or gave you strength during difficult seasons. Remember He didn’t allow more than you could handle with Him.

As you encounter challenges, turn to the One who is able to deliver you or empower you to endure with renewed perspective. Proclaim your trust in His unfailing protection and provision, seen and unseen. Seek refuge in His presence through prayer and meditate on His living and active Word.

Prayer

Dear Heavenly Father,

You have been, are, and will be my Refuge and Protector. Your promises are proven to be true.

In You I trust. In You I find safety and renewed strength.

Thank You for Your faithfulness, it is a shield around me. Thank You for Your presence, my stronghold.

I will not fear for You are with me, Lord.

Though moments of uncertainty come, I choose to trust in Your unwavering care and protection.

Help me always to find my refuge in You. Thank You for helping me now to step forward in faith with confidence in Your promised provision.

In Jesus' name, I pray. Amen.

Divine Dialogue

Pause, Listen, Record, and Respond

John 10:1-18

Klein, Tanner. "Day 15: The LORD’s Proven Protection." Thank You, Father: 30 Days of Gratitude, Prayer, & Praise, KLEINHAUS Books, 2024, pp. 125-131.

*Thank You, Father: 30 Days of Gratitude, Prayer, & Praise - Men’s Devotional is available on Amazon: Ebook, $7.99 (or $0.00 for Kindle Unlimited) or Paperback, $13.99.* If you’ve been blessed by this devotional, you can leave a review on Amazon—that would bless me.

Hey friends, thanks for joining the LIFE ON MISSION with TANNER KLEIN Podcast. Welcome back to the Who Is God series.

I’m excited to explore this aspect of who God is with you all. Get ready, because we’re about to engage with the living God. I hope this stirs your faith and inspires lasting gratitude, prayer, & praise. Let’s do this!

God Is Immutable (Unchanging)

What does this mean?To say that God is immutable means that He never changes in His character, nature, purposes, or promises.

God does not evolve, grow, fade, or fluctuate.

He is eternally consistent—perfect in holiness, constant in love, unwavering in faithfulness, and certain in His Word.

This unchanging nature sets God apart from everything else in creation.

While the world constantly shifts and people fail, our God remains steadfast and sure.

He is the same yesterday, today, and forever.

Isn’t that good news? How greatly the world needs to hear this reality of God!

Before we continue, let’s pause and consider who we are approaching right now.

We are about to behold the LORD, our Rock—the one true, living God who never changes.

He is not moody or reactive. He is not swayed by culture, emotion, or time.

The same God who parted the Red Sea, who raises the dead to life, who spoke the universe into being, is with us now.

His love for us is not based on our performance, but on His unchanging nature and covenant promise.

I invite you to pause and take 30 seconds to acknowledge our Immutable God… to quiet your heart before the One who has always been and will always be—perfect, steady, and faithful.

Are you ready? Let’s approach the God who never changes with awe and wonder. Let's anchor our hearts in His unshakeable truth. Now, thanks to Jesus, let’s come before His throne of grace—with boldness and hearts ready to praise!

God’s Word Reveals HE IS UNCHANGING

“For I the LORD do not change; therefore you, O children of Jacob, are not consumed.”

- Malachi 3:6

“Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever.”

- Hebrews 13:8

“Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of lights, with whom there is no variation or shadow due to change.”

- James 1:17

1. Behold: Who God Is

God is immutable, unchanging. Let that sink in.

He does not shift with the seasons, grow weary with age, or become any less holy over time.

He doesn’t change His mind because of new information or make mistakes that He later corrects.

His love never fades.

His mercy never fails.

His justice never wavers.

His truth never bends.

His generosity is unmatched.

This is the solid Rock upon which we can stand.

In a world of constant change—news cycles, emotions, relationships, health, politics, and even our own minds—God remains the only one who is unmovable and absolutely faithful.

Every attribute of God is eternally fixed.

His holiness is constant.

His goodness is unshakeable.

His grace is dependable.

He cannot be more loving or righteous or merciful.

When God says He will never leave nor forsake you—He means it, and He won’t change His mind.

When He promises to finish the good work He began in you—He will.

You can trust God because He cannot lie, and unlike anything or anyone in this world—He does not change.

What a glorious truth: the eternal God is perfectly reliable, perpetually faithful, and always who He says He is.

2. Believe: Who You Are in Christ

Because God never changes, your identity in Christ is secure.

You are not defined by your mood swings, your performance, or your past.

Hallelujah! Amen?

You are defined by the eternal Word of the unchanging God.

In Christ, you are forgiven, redeemed, chosen, beloved—and that will never change because He never changes.

You are covered by His covenantal love.

You are upheld by His unchanging Word.

You are hidden in Christ, who is the same yesterday, today, and forever.

The God who saved you will sustain you.

The God who called you will carry you.

Thanks to Jesus, the God who knew you before time began still delights in you now.

You don’t need to be perfect for Him to stay faithful.

The Lord is faithful because faithful is who He is.

You can rest in His unchanging grace.

3. Become: Like Jesus, Steady and Trusting

Let this truth marinate in your heart and mind today:

When everything else feels uncertain, God is your anchor.

His promises prove true.

His presence is your constant refuge.

Jesus, the Son of God, modeled perfect trust in the unchanging nature of His Father.

He remained steady through storms, suffering, and temptation—not because life was easy, but because He knew His Father was faithful and unwavering.

As followers of Christ, we are invited into that same steadfastness—not by our own efforts to just do and be better, but by surrendering and responding by faith to the One who never shifts or fails.

By the power of the Holy Spirit, we can learn to walk with God daily, choosing faith-filled obedience and fullness of joy in God’s presence over rebellion, independence, or lukewarm apathy.

A Declaration for Today (You can say this with me by faith):

“Awesome God, You never change. I choose to trust You—not my circumstances, not my feelings, and not the world’s instability. My hope is in You alone, unchanging Savior.”

A Call to Trust:

You can trust the Lord when the ground beneath your feet feels uncertain because His Word is a firm foundation. Rest in the truth that the God who was faithful yesterday is the same today and forever. He won’t suddenly withdraw His grace or change His character. So let go of fear, release the need for control, and lean on the One who never changes. It’s time to learn to walk with the Lord your Maker, His way.

Take A Step Of Faith: Write down one thing in your life that feels especially uncertain or unstable right now. Bring it to God in prayer. Put your trust in His unchanging nature. Anchor your heart in His love and truth.

Remember God’s Promise:

“The steadfast love of the LORD never ceases; His mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning; great is Your faithfulness.”

- Lamentations 3:22–23

Let’s Pray

Unchanging God,

There’s no one like You, no one besides You, Lord.

While everything around me shifts and trembles, You are my Rock, my firm foundation.

I thank You knowing I can trust in who You are—today, tomorrow, and forever.

Seal this truth into my heart: You do not change.

I choose to rely on Your Word and on your steadfast character.

Help me to build my life on Christ, the Cornerstone.

Stable Savior, I lay down my wayward thoughts, my fears, and my doubts before You.

Teach me to anchor myself in You, my thoughts, my emotions, my faith—may all that I am be rooted in You, Lord, and in Your love.

By Your Spirit working in and through me, make me more like Jesus: steady in truth, full of grace, and unwavering in faith.

In the name of Jesus, I pray.

Amen.

Thank You, Lord!

I pray that the God who never changes—our Rock and Refuge—would anchor your heart in His love today, and remind you that His promises are just as true today as they have always been. May you walk in peace and confidence, led by the Spirit, knowing that God is the same forever.

Thanks for tuning in and meditating on our God’s immutability with me. This is the 6th post in this series called WHO IS GOD? A Series on Rediscovering the One True, Living God—and Who You Are Because of Him.

As a reminder, here’s the heart of this series:

EMBRACING WHO GOD IS helps us ALIGN OUR IDENTITY IN CHRIST which leads to EXPERIENCING MORE ABUNDANT LIFE WITH GOD.

This may seem simple, but we really do need the help of God’s Spirit.

This is an intentional journey of growing to trust in God’s character and nature, allowing Him to shape our identity in Christ and responding by faith.

If you haven’t already, check out the latest podcasts highlighting Who God Is: Love, a Consuming Fire, Infinite, Holy, and you can find the series introduction too. These are linked here.

* GOD IS LOVE

* GOD IS A CONSUMING FIRE

* INFINITE GOD

* GOD IS HOLY

* WHO IS GOD? Series Introduction

Now is a great time to share this post with a friend. Copy the link, send it to a buddy, parent, sibling, or neighbor.

For all the podcast listeners, feel free to share these LIFE ON MISSION posts via Apple Podcasts and Spotify.

I’m deeply excited to see how our unchanging God encourages and builds up His Bride through these posts. May God bless you to EMBRACE WHO GOD IS, ALIGN YOUR IDENTITY IN HIM, and EXPERIENCE MORE ABUNDANT LIFE WITH HIM. May God bless you!

🇫🇷 La traduction française

DIEU EST IMMUABLE (INCHANGEANT) – QUI EST DIEU ?Une série pour redécouvrir le seul vrai Dieu vivant — et qui tu es à cause de Lui

Contempler les attributs, le caractère et la nature de Dieu

Salut mes amis, merci de vous joindre au podcast LIFE ON MISSION avec TANNER KLEIN. Bienvenue dans la série Qui est Dieu ?

Je suis heureux d’explorer avec vous cet aspect de qui est Dieu. Préparez-vous : nous allons rencontrer le Dieu vivant. J’espère que cela encouragera votre foi et inspirera une reconnaissance durable, une prière fervente et une louange authentique. Allons-y !

DIEU EST IMMUABLE (INCHANGEANT)

Qu’est-ce que cela signifie ?

Dire que Dieu est immuable signifie qu’il ne change jamais dans son caractère, sa nature, ses desseins ou ses promesses. Dieu n’évolue pas, ne grandit pas, ne s’éteint pas et ne fluctue pas. Il est éternellement constant – parfait dans la sainteté, constant dans l’amour, inébranlable dans la fidélité, et sûr dans sa Parole. Cette nature immuable distingue Dieu de tout le reste de la création. Alors que le monde change sans cesse et que les gens faillissent, notre Dieu demeure fidèle et sûr. Il est le même hier, aujourd’hui, et pour toujours. N’est-ce pas une bonne nouvelle ? Comme ce monde a besoin d’entendre cette réalité à propos de Dieu !

Avant de continuer, arrêtons-nous un instant et considérons qui nous sommes en train d’approcher. Nous allons contempler l’ÉTERNEL, notre Rocher — le seul vrai Dieu vivant, qui ne change jamais. Il n’est pas lunatique ni réactif. Il n’est pas influencé par la culture, l’émotion ou le temps. Le même Dieu qui a ouvert la mer Rouge, qui ressuscite les morts, qui a parlé l’univers à l’existence, est avec nous maintenant. Son amour pour nous ne dépend pas de nos performances, mais de sa nature immuable et de sa promesse d’alliance.

Je vous invite à faire une pause et à prendre 30 secondes pour reconnaître notre Dieu immuable… à calmer votre cœur devant Celui qui a toujours été et qui sera toujours — parfait, stable et fidèle.

Êtes-vous prêt(e) ? Approchons-nous du Dieu qui ne change pas avec crainte respectueuse et émerveillement. Ancrons notre cœur dans Sa vérité inébranlable. Et maintenant, grâce à Jésus, venons avec assurance devant le trône de la grâce, les cœurs prêts à louer !

LA PAROLE DE DIEU RÉVÈLE QU’IL EST INCHANGEANT

« Car je suis l'Éternel, je ne change pas ; Et vous, enfants de Jacob, vous n'avez pas été consumés. » – Malachie 3.6

« Jésus-Christ est le même hier, aujourd'hui, et éternellement. » – Hébreux 13.8

« Toute grâce excellente et tout don parfait descendent d'en haut, du Père des lumières, chez lequel il n'y a ni changement ni ombre de variation. » – Jacques 1.17

1. Contempler : Qui est Dieu ?

Dieu est immuable, inchangeant. Laissez cette vérité s’enraciner en vous. Il ne change pas selon les saisons, ne se lasse pas avec l’âge, ne devient jamais moins saint avec le temps. Il ne change pas d’avis en découvrant de nouvelles informations, Il ne fait pas d’erreurs à corriger plus tard. Son amour ne s’estompe jamais. Sa miséricorde n’échoue jamais. Sa justice ne chancelle jamais. Sa vérité ne plie jamais. Sa générosité est incomparable.

C’est sur ce Rocher solide que nous pouvons nous appuyer. Dans un monde de changements constants — nouvelles, émotions, relations, santé, politique, même nos propres pensées — Dieu est le seul inébranlable, totalement fidèle. Chaque attribut de Dieu est éternellement fixé. Sa sainteté est constante. Sa bonté est inébranlable. Sa grâce est digne de confiance. Il ne peut être plus aimant, plus juste ou plus miséricordieux qu’Il ne l’est déjà.

Quand Dieu dit qu’il ne vous délaissera ni ne vous abandonnera — Il le pense, et Il ne changera pas d’avis. Quand Il promet d’achever l’œuvre commencée en vous — Il le fera. Vous pouvez faire confiance à Dieu, car Il ne ment pas, et contrairement à tout dans ce monde — Il ne change pas.

Quelle glorieuse vérité : le Dieu éternel est parfaitement digne de confiance, perpétuellement fidèle, et toujours Celui qu’Il dit être.

2. Croire : Qui Tu es en Christ

Parce que Dieu ne change jamais, votre identité en Christ est sécurisée.

Vous n’êtes pas défini(e) par vos sautes d’humeur, vos performances ou votre passé. Alléluia ! Amen ? Vous êtes défini(e) par la Parole éternelle du Dieu immuable. En Christ, vous êtes pardonné(e), racheté(e), choisi(e), aimé(e) — et cela ne changera jamais, car Lui ne change pas.

Vous êtes couvert(e) par son amour d’alliance. Vous êtes soutenu(e) par sa Parole inchangeable. Vous êtes caché(e) en Christ, qui est le même hier, aujourd’hui et éternellement. Le Dieu qui vous a sauvé(e) vous soutiendra. Le Dieu qui vous a appelé(e) vous portera. Grâce à Jésus, le Dieu qui vous connaissait avant la fondation du monde se réjouit encore en vous aujourd’hui.

Vous n’avez pas besoin d’être parfait(e) pour qu’Il reste fidèle. Le Seigneur est fidèle, parce que c’est qui Il est. Vous pouvez vous reposer dans sa grâce inchangeable.

3. Deviens : Comme Jésus, stable et confiant

Laissez cette vérité imprégner votre cœur et votre esprit aujourd’hui : Quand tout semble incertain, Dieu est votre ancre. Ses promesses s’accomplissent. Sa présence est votre refuge constant.

Jésus, le Fils de Dieu, a démontré une confiance parfaite dans la nature inchangeable de Son Père. Il est resté ferme dans la tempête, la souffrance, et la tentation — non parce que la vie était facile, mais parce qu’Il savait que son Père était fidèle et immuable. En tant que disciples de Christ, nous sommes appelés à cette même stabilité — non par nos propres efforts pour « faire mieux », mais par la foi et la soumission au Dieu qui ne change jamais.

Par la puissance du Saint-Esprit, nous pouvons apprendre à marcher chaque jour avec Dieu, en choisissant l’obéissance remplie de foi et la joie de sa présence plutôt que la rébellion, l’indépendance ou la tiédeur.

Une Déclaration pour aujourd’hui (Tu peux la dire avec moi par la foi) :

« Dieu merveilleux, Tu ne changes jamais. Je choisis de Te faire confiance — pas à mes circonstances, pas à mes sentiments, ni à l’instabilité du monde. Mon espérance est en Toi seul, Sauveur immuable. »

Un appel à faire confiance :

Vous pouvez faire confiance au Seigneur même lorsque le sol semble trembler sous vos pieds, car Sa Parole est un fondement solide. Reposez-vous dans cette vérité : le Dieu qui a été fidèle hier est le même aujourd’hui et pour toujours. Il ne retirera pas soudainement sa grâce. Il ne changera pas de caractère. Alors, laissez tomber la peur, relâchez le besoin de contrôle, et appuyez-vous sur Celui qui ne change jamais. Il est temps d’apprendre à marcher avec le Seigneur, votre Créateur, selon Ses voies.

Faites un pas de foi :

Écrivez une chose dans votre vie qui vous semble particulièrement instable ou incertaine en ce moment. Apportez-la à Dieu dans la prière. Mettez votre confiance dans Sa nature immuable. Ancrez votre cœur dans Son amour et Sa vérité.

Souviens-toi de la promesse de Dieu :

« Les bontés de l'Éternel ne sont pas épuisées, Ses compassions ne prennent pas fin ; Elles se renouvellent chaque matin. Que ta fidélité est grande ! » – Lamentations 3.22–23 (Colombe)

Prions

Dieu Immuable, Il n’y a personne comme Toi, personne à part Toi, Seigneur. Alors que tout autour de moi vacille, Tu es mon Rocher, mon fondement sûr. Je Te rends grâce, sachant que je peux me confier en qui Tu es — aujourd’hui, demain et pour toujours. Scelle cette vérité dans mon cœur : Tu ne changes pas. Je choisis de m’appuyer sur Ta Parole et Ton caractère fidèle. Aide-moi à bâtir ma vie sur Christ, la pierre angulaire. Sauveur stable, je dépose devant Toi mes pensées instables, mes peurs et mes doutes. Apprends-moi à m’ancrer en Toi — que mes pensées, mes émotions, ma foi — tout en moi soit enraciné en Toi, Seigneur, et dans Ton amour. Par Ton Esprit à l’œuvre en moi, rends-moi plus semblable à Jésus : stable dans la vérité, rempli de grâce et inébranlable dans la foi. Au nom de Jésus, je prie. Amen. Merci, Seigneur !

Je prie que le Dieu qui ne change jamais — notre Rocher et Refuge — ancre votre cœur dans Son amour aujourd’hui, et vous rappelle que Ses promesses sont aussi vraies aujourd’hui qu’elles l’ont toujours été. Puissiez-vous marcher dans la paix et la confiance, conduit(e) par l’Esprit, sachant que Dieu est le même pour l’éternité.

Merci d’avoir médité avec moi sur l’immutabilité de notre Dieu. C’est le 6e épisode de la série QUI EST DIEU ? Une série pour redécouvrir le seul vrai Dieu vivant – et qui vous êtes à cause de Lui. Petit rappel de l’essence de cette série :

ACCUEILLIR QUI EST DIEU nous aide à ALIGNER NOTRE IDENTITÉ EN CHRIST, ce qui nous conduit à EXPÉRIMENTER UNE VIE ABONDANTE AVEC DIEU.

Cela peut sembler simple, mais nous avons réellement besoin de l’aide de l’Esprit de Dieu. C’est un parcours intentionnel pour apprendre à faire confiance au caractère de Dieu, à Laisser Dieu former notre identité en Christ, et à répondre avec foi.

Si ce n’est pas déjà fait, allez écouter les derniers épisodes du podcast sur Qui est Dieu : Amour, Feu Dévorant, Infini, Sainteté — et l’introduction de la série. Tous sont disponibles ici.

* DIEU EST AMOUR

* DIEU EST UN FEU DÉVORANT🔥

* DIEU INFINI

* DIEU EST SAINT

* QUI EST DIEU ? C’est le moment parfait pour partager ce message avec un(e) ami(e). Copiez le lien, envoyez-le à un proche, un parent, un frère ou une sœur.

Et pour les auditeurs du podcast, partagez les épisodes LIFE ON MISSION via Apple Podcasts et Spotify. Je suis enthousiasmé de voir comment notre Dieu immuable va encourager et édifier Son Église à travers ces messages.

Que Dieu vous bénisse pour ACCUEILLIR QUI IL EST, ALIGNER VOTRE IDENTITÉ EN LUI, et EXPÉRIMENTER UNE VIE ABONDANTE AVEC LUI. Dieu vous bénisse !

This free devotional comes from my book, Thank You, Father: 30 Days of Gratitude, Prayer, & Praise - Men’s Devotional, available on Amazon: Ebook, $7.99 (or $0.00 for Kindle Unlimited) or Paperback, $13.99.

Day 14: God's Trustworthy Guidance

"I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will counsel you with my eye upon you. Be not like a horse or a mule, without understanding, which must be curbed with bit and bridle, or it will not stay near you."

Psalm 32:8-9

"Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths."

Proverbs 3:5-6

"Make me to know your ways, O LORD; teach me your paths. Lead me in your truth and teach me, for you are the God of my salvation; for you I wait all the day long."

Psalm 25:4-5

Devotional

The LORD is our all-knowing Counselor, caring Instructor, and ever-present Guide.

God proved His devotion to guide us through Christ, the Good Shepherd, who laid down His life for His flock.

There is no doubt about our Lord’s desire and willingness to instruct us in His ways.

So, what response does God, our Guide, want from us?

Trust, dependence, and acknowledgement as we follow His lead.

When we trust in our sovereign Lord, we can both wait on Him and walk in His will.

Men of God

It can be easy to rely on our own understanding and plans.

Yet, our Creator designed us to lean on His understanding and place our trust in His plans, not ours.

Though we may not have all the answers as we follow the Lord’s lead, we get to walk with the One who does.

Gratitude for our God's guidance helps us to maintain a posture of humility.

We can gladly acknowledge that the ways of the King of kings and Lord of lords are greater, wiser, and better than our own.

Application

Take a few moments to both thank God for His faithfulness over the years and to pray for God's guidance in every area of your life—your relationships, work, and decision-making. Seek the LORD in His Word. Pray and listen.

Yield to the One who loves you and is able to lead you down paths of abundant life. Cultivate a heart of gratitude and trust by surrendering your plans to Him today. Hold fast to God’s instructions and stay attentive to His voice through prayer. Listen to your Good Shepherd and respond in faith.

Prayer

Dear LORD,

Thank You for Your willingness to instruct and teach me in the way I should go. Thank You for Your counsel and attentive care for me.

Forgive me for leaning on my own understanding and resisting Your leadership.

Teach me to trust You wholeheartedly. I acknowledge You are trustworthy, God.

Guide me to walk in Your ways today. I surrender my plans and desires to You.

Your ways and plans are higher and greater than my own. Shape my perspective and desires to align with Your will.

I acknowledge I am dependent on Your guidance in all aspects of my life.

Lead me according Your truth, that I may walk with You down the path You have prepared for me today.

In Jesus' name, I pray. Amen.

Divine Dialogue

Pause, Listen, Record, and Respond

1 Samuel 3:10

Klein, Tanner. "Day 14: God's Trustworthy Guidance." Thank You, Father: 30 Days of Gratitude, Prayer, & Praise, KLEINHAUS Books, 2024, pp. 117-123.

*Thank You, Father: 30 Days of Gratitude, Prayer, & Praise - Men’s Devotional is available on Amazon: Ebook, $7.99 (or $0.00 for Kindle Unlimited) or Paperback, $13.99.*

This free devotional comes from my book, Thank You, Father: 30 Days of Gratitude, Prayer, & Praise - Men’s Devotional, available on Amazon: Ebook, $7.99 (or $0.00 for Kindle Unlimited) or Paperback, $13.99.

Day 13: Spiritual Growth & Thanksgiving

"Therefore, as you received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk in him, rooted and built up in him and established in the faith, just as you were taught, abounding in thanksgiving."

Colossians 2:6-7

"But grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To him be the glory both now and to the day of eternity. Amen."

2 Peter 3:18

"And I am sure of this, that he who began a good work in you will bring it to completion at the day of Jesus Christ."

Philippians 1:6

Devotional

In His steadfast love, our God desires an ever-deepening relationship with His children.

He is faithful and fully committed to shaping us into Christ’s image and likeness.

Our hearts, minds, souls, and lives are to be rooted and built up in Christ, filled with thanksgiving.

Our faith is to be securely established on our Rock and Firm Foundation.

Having been reconciled to God our Father through Christ, we get to grow in the grace and knowledge of the Lord by walking with Him daily.

As we do, we come to better resemble and represent Jesus as His ambassadors to the world.

Men of God

As men on the journey of faith in Christ, we may pause and wonder if we are growing spiritually.

At times, it may feel like we have stagnated in our growth in the Lord or have lost the love we had at first.

These verses assure us that God is at work in our lives, guiding us toward maturity in Christ.

The Lord empowers and sustains our growth. His loyal love for us also elicits a response.

We are called to abide in Jesus, the Vine. Those who remain in Him produce much fruit. Apart from Him, we can do nothing (John 15:5).

We get to walk by faith with our Good Shepherd—rejoicing, praying, and giving thanks.

We are among the most blessed in all creation.

Application

Today, take a moment to reflect on your spiritual journey. Give thanks as you consider how far God has brought you. For those who are in Christ, there is no condemnation, so freely draw near to the Lord.

Be honest. Let the Lord search your heart and identify anything keeping you from spiritual growth. Ask for forgiveness and seek His wisdom to respond in faith. Proclaim your trust in God's promise to complete the work He began in you. He will surely do it.

Prayer

Dear Father,

Thank You for Your commitment to my spiritual growth. I praise You for Your steadfast love and patience in my life.

Thank You for Your Word and grace fueling my growth in Christ.

Help me to remain in You today, keenly aware of Your nearness regardless of the distractions that come.

Help me stay rooted and built up in You, firmly established in faith, and abounding with gratitude by the power of the Holy Spirit.

May my perspective shift to align with Your will and Word so my life brings You glory today.

I trust You will bring to completion the work You have begun in me.

In Jesus' name, I pray. Amen.

Divine Dialogue

Pause, Listen, Record, and Respond

John 10:1-18

Klein, Tanner. "Day 13: Spiritual Growth & Thanksgiving." Thank You, Father: 30 Days of Gratitude, Prayer, & Praise, KLEINHAUS Books, 2024, pp. 109-115.

*Thank You, Father: 30 Days of Gratitude, Prayer, & Praise - Men’s Devotional is available on Amazon: Ebook, $7.99 (or $0.00 for Kindle Unlimited) or Paperback, $13.99.*

This free devotional comes from my book, Thank You, Father: 30 Days of Gratitude, Prayer, & Praise - Men’s Devotional, available on Amazon: Ebook, $7.99 (or $0.00 for Kindle Unlimited) or Paperback, $13.99.

Day 12: The Unfailing Love of the LORD

"For I am sure that neither death nor life, nor angels nor rulers, nor things present nor things to come, nor powers, nor height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord."

Romans 8:38-39

"Oh give thanks to the LORD, for he is good, for his steadfast love endures forever!"

Psalm 106:1

"The LORD appeared to him from far away. ‘I have loved you with an everlasting love; therefore, I have continued my faithfulness to you.’"

Jeremiah 31:3

Devotional

Jesus Christ is proof of God's loyal love for us.

His record of unfailing love is unmatched, evident from the beginning of time.

The steadfast love of God Most High surpasses all earthly limitations and His faithfulness is as constant as His love.

Our Father owes us nothing and yet willingly chose to give His Son for us. He continues to lavish His love upon us day after day.

Nothing in all creation is stronger than the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord. Nothing can separate us from His love for even a moment.

The goodness of God invites a response: wholehearted thanksgiving and praise.

The LORD is worthy to be worshiped, in spirit and in truth.

Men of God

As men, we are not immune to struggling with feelings of inadequacy, fear, or doubt.

There can be pressure to hide our need for love, but this hunger for love in our hearts is a sign of our design. We were made to seek and find everlasting love and full satisfaction in Jesus, the Bread of Life.

These verses remind us that God's love is not based on our performance or circumstances but on His unchanging character.

God’s unfailing love is trustworthy.

His love is not passive. In love, He intentionally pursues us.

No matter what we face, we can give thanks and step forward in faith with complete certainty of our Father’s commitment to us.

Application

Take a moment to reflect on the nature of God's love: unconditional, everlasting, all-consuming, ever-pursuing, immeasurable, ever-present. Consider His faithfulness to you in this season and express your gratitude to Him. Hold fast to His promise to let nothing separate you from His love.

Let these truths from Scripture anchor your soul and you will stand firm when tempted to doubt God’s love. Take a posture of humility as you open your heart before the LORD (e.g. open your hands, bow on your knees, give thanks where you are) and allow our Father to fill your heart with love and peace in His presence. In response, go forth as a vessel of God’s love to the souls around you.

Prayer

Dear LORD,

You are the Source of love. It is an honor to draw near to You.

Thank You for proving Your love for me through Christ. My life is filled with proof of Your unfailing love.

Your intentionality and care are unmatched. Your steadfast commitment to me is awe-inspiring.

Thank You for loving me through my failures. Help me to receive, rest in, and respond to Your love.

May I be so deeply rooted in Your love that others experience the unconditional love of God through me. May I be a vessel for the sake of Christ, pouring into the lives of those You have specifically placed around me.

In Jesus' name, I pray. Amen.

Divine Dialogue

Pause, Listen, Record, and Respond

1 Samuel 3:10

Klein, Tanner. "Day 12: The Unfailing Love of the LORD." Thank You, Father: 30 Days of Gratitude, Prayer, & Praise, KLEINHAUS Books, 2024, pp. 101-107.

*Thank You, Father: 30 Days of Gratitude, Prayer, & Praise - Men’s Devotional is available on Amazon: Ebook, $7.99 (or $0.00 for Kindle Unlimited) or Paperback, $13.99.*

This series is inspired by seeking the Lord in prayer and in the Word regarding full freedom from lust & sexual immorality, and with these, addiction & shame. It is also inspired by walking alongside other young men who are struggling or have struggled under the immense weight of shame and the consequences of struggling with lust, addiction, porn, masturbation, etc.

Victory is Christ has been given through Christ, the victorious Lamb of God who was slain. Real freedom from slavery to sexual immorality, addiction, & shame is available and possible through Christ for all followers of Jesus.

A Testimony that needs to be shared

I was addicted, full of shame, and believing I was unloved and unlovable.

Then Jesus met me with love in the midst of my guilt and shame and changed the course of my life with three words: YOU ARE LOVED.

Now, I am free from addiction and shame, and I experience the love of God on a daily basis.

All glory to our awesome God! My life has been utterly changed ever since.

While I have shared this testimony with many in person, I have not published it for others to see until now.

Through reading the Word of God, prayer, and countless conversations with others regarding so-called “taboo” topics of sexual immorality, addiction, and shame, the Lord has revealed to me how necessary it is to bring these topics into the light, especially so considering how many struggle greatly with shame as a result of sexual immorality and addiction amid our hyper-sexualized Western world, media, and culture.

By sharing my own experience and God’s love and grace to free me from addiction and shame, the Lord has opened up numerous doors to walk alongside others who are in the same shoes I was in. In the last few months alone, God has opened up several opportunities to build ongoing relationships with men in need of discipleship, namely, needing a friend to open up to without fear of condemnation.

7 For one will scarcely die for a righteous person—though perhaps for a good person one would dare even to die— 8 but God shows his love for us in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us. 9 Since, therefore, we have now been justified by his blood, much more shall we be saved by him from the wrath of God.” - Romans 5:7-9

That is very, very good news. Christ died for us while we were still sinners, not once we got our act together. Hallelujah!

Lust is a plague.

Sexual immorality is a stronghold.

Here are some weighty statistics on the gravity of the issue at hand.

To all those reading and listening, there is eye-opening, sad, and heart-wrenching information below. It is hard to hear but I strongly believe it must be brought into the light. If it remains in the darkness, we have no reason to expect any of this to change. But the Bible says in Ephesians 5:11-14,

11 “Take no part in the unfruitful works of darkness, but instead expose them. 12 For it is shameful even to speak of the things that they do in secret. 13 But when anything is exposed by the light, it becomes visible, 14 for anything that becomes visible is light. Therefore it says,

‘Awake, O sleeper, and arise from the dead,and Christ will shine on you.’”

Feel free to take a moment to pray and ask God to give you wisdom and insight on how to respond to this knowledge. After reading or listening to these, please join me in my prayer (below).

* More people visit porn sites each month than Amazon, TikTok, OpenAI (Chat GPT), LinkedIn, and Netflix (Psychology Today). The disparity is humongous.

* The top-ranked pornography site had

* 700,000,000 more total visits than Amazon,

* 900,000,000 more total visits than TikTok,

* 1,100,000,000 more total visits than OpenAI (Chat GPT),

* 1,300,000,000 more total visits than LinkedIn, and

* 1,500,000,000 more total visits than Netflix.

* The report, "Teens and Pornography," found that 73% of teen respondents age 13 to 17 have watched pornography online—and more than half (54%) reported first seeing pornography by the time they reached the age of 13. And, online pornography is shaping their views about sex and sexual relationships, as nearly half (45%) of teen respondents said that they felt online pornography gives "helpful" information about sex.

* Men who report having watched pornography in the past 24 hours report the highest rates of loneliness. (How Prevalent Is Pornography? | Institute for Family Studies).

* According to Pornography Survey Statistics - Proven Men

* 97% of men have viewed pornography.

* 80% of men don’t have an Internet filter to block porn from computers or cell phones (79% for “born-again Christian men”).

* 78% of men viewed porn before turning 16 years old.

* 77% of men between 18-30 view porn at least monthly.

Exactly how great is the issue? God knows. But it is clear that lust is a plague and sexual immorality is a stronghold. This is a deeply personal issue as well as a global issue. Sexual immorality, addiction, and shame don’t just impact an individual’s inner personal life, it knowingly or unknowingly impacts all they say and do and all the relationships they have. These vices impact people, who impact families and nations alike.

Please join me in Praying

Merciful Father,

Have mercy on us. Our world is in dire need of salvation and we know that we are saved by grace through faith in Jesus. Deliver us from sin. Purify our hearts and minds. In Your grace, show us how to respond to this information. Move our hearts to care for the things you care about. Teach us how to love others well as you love us well, even in the midst of our own dark valleys. Help us to be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to become angry. As Your Spirit leads us, grant us the right words to speak the truth in love. Inspire us to act. Correct us where we need correction. Search us, Lord, and know our hearts. Refine us and know our wayward thoughts. Please highlight any of our wrong beliefs or ways, and lead us down paths of righteousness for the sake of Jesus and Your Kingdom. Teach us to walk in purity and to live as ambassadors of Christ and Your Kingdom of Light amid a world that can love darkness and needs Your light to shine. Shine through us, Lord! Bring about transformation in us and through us. We pray in the name of Jesus. Amen.

What’s the solution? How can we truly be set free?

This is complex. That much is clear. We need the Lord’s help.

Because of what Christ has done, we already have victory in Christ. We are victorious in Him; that is a core part of our identity in Jesus. We must also choose to follow Jesus daily or else, choose to go our own way, toward sin and away from the straight and narrow path God designed for us. For me, gaining victory through Christ over sexual immorality, addiction, and shame happened over time. It was a long process of sanctification, through which the Lord tested and refined my faith. It was not easy or pleasant but it did keep me relying on Him. For that, I am deeply grateful to God.

Our God is more committed to us, to shaping us into the likeness of His Son Jesus, than we could possibly fathom. There is no one who is for us like the Lord our God. There’s none like our covenantally faithful Father in heaven. His steadfast love for us unwavering and unmatched.

Now we get to respond, no longer as slaves to sin, but as sons and daughters of our God who loves us. The following is not an exhaustive list, but these are core Biblical ways we can truly walk in the victory that Christ secured for His sons and daughters through His sinless life, sacrificial death, and triumphant resurrection.

What is needed to truly walk in freedom?

* Acknowledgement of our neediness, surrender, and dependence on God,

* fear of the Lord,

* a true desire to walk in freedom,

* willingness to flee from sexual immorality,

* courage,

* a hatred of evil,

* commitment to living in the light,

* loving our neighbor as ourself,

* valuing the dignity God has given to other women (and men), uniquely, lovingly, and wonderfully made in His image,

* a longing to please God,

* an “eternal perspective,”

* a right theology of suffering, as Jesus told his disciples, “If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross and follow me.” (Matthew 16:24),

* a true appreciation and gratitude for the cross and what Jesus accomplished,

* a new mind and heart,

* loving what God loves and hating what He hates,

* overcoming evil,

* boldly representing Christ as servants, sons, and ambassadors,

* firm resolve, diligence, tenacity, grit, and commitment/dedication.

Ultimately, it requires love for God and for others.

Our God makes sons out of slaves. He makes new creations in Christ Jesus.

17 Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come. 18 All this is from God, who through Christ reconciled us to himself and gave us the ministry of reconciliation; 19 that is, in Christ God was reconciling the world to himself, not counting their trespasses against them, and entrusting to us the message of reconciliation. 20 Therefore, we are ambassadors for Christ, God making his appeal through us. We implore you on behalf of Christ, be reconciled to God. 21 For our sake he made him to be sin who knew no sin, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God. - 2 Corinthians 5:17-21

Hallelujah! Thank You, Lord!

With God’s help, we will dive into these topics that must be brought into the light and seek to uncover together how we can best respond, empowered by God’s Spirit.

I am convinced the Lord has much more to share with us as we deep dive into these topics and discover freedom in Christ as His modern-day disciples.

Jesus’ words to His disciples are still true for us today. He said in John 14:6,

“I am the way, and the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.”

Jesus also said,

31 “If you abide in my word, you are truly my disciples, 32 and you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.” - John 8:31-32

It is by the grace of God, through Christ, empowered by His Spirit, that the Lord has graciously helped me to overcome sexual immorality, addiction, and shame. Thank You, LORD!

While I celebrate victory in Christ, I am still learning to take care, so that I don’t fall back toward the slippery slope of sin in my mind or heart. I know I need to remain rooted in Christ, in His love and in His Word. I need to keep seeking the Lord’s guidance and leadership daily, throughout each day. I know I need to remain humble and dependent on the the LORD our God who fights for us (Exodus 14:14). I need to remain steadfast in prayer and to receive prayer from others. I need to boast not in my strength but in Christ’s victory, for His grace is sufficient for us; His power is made perfect in weakness (2 Corinthians 12:9).

While the deceiver wants to keep us buried under the weight of our sin and shame, hidden in the dark, Jesus our victorious Savior invites us:

28 “Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.

29 Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart,

and you will find rest for your souls.” - Matthew 11:28-29

Through this Victory in Christ series, “Slaves to Sons,” we will ask, seek, and knock together as Jesus instructs us in Matthew 7:7-8, trusting that our great God will give, reveal, and open doors. We will continue to discover how to get freedom from sexual immorality, addiction, and shame as we embrace our identity as a beloved sons and daughters of our Father in Heaven.

Our God is for us, who can be against us!

Stayed tuned for more to come and please share this with a friend if the Lord made an impact on you through this. May God bless you!

We’re laying the groundwork for God’s beautiful design for faith-filled work, service, and worship. More to come on: Avodah with God; Why does it matter to God? and What does it mean for us?

In the initial Introduction to AVODAH WITH GOD: Working with God, God's Way, we dove into Understanding Avodah with God, Avodah: A Word That Changes Everything, What is the equivalent to Avodah in the New Testament? and we came to the conclusion that based on God’s Word, it is clear that we are designed to “avad with God,” that is, to work with, serve, and worship Him. We unveiled that avodah with God is not just from 9-5, or as a volunteer every so often, or on Sunday mornings. It is our response in faith to who God is and all He has done. We are designed for meaningful work and worshipful acts of devotion over the long run. Avodah with God is about God’s children walking in a manner worthy of their calling, utilizing their gifts, time, and talents to serve God by serving others and glorify God through their work. Our God cares. Our God sees, and our God is for us, working in us, ready and willing to give us both the desire and the ability to do what pleases Him.

If you didn’t get a chance to read or listen in to our first Introduction to AVODAH WITH GOD: Working with God, God's Way, or if you would like to learn more, feel free to click this link below:

Now, onto Part 2!

Work Was Always Sacred

To understand this, we have to go all the way back to the beginning—Genesis 2. Before sin, before toil, before we started dreading Mondays.

“The Lord God took the man and put him in the garden of Eden to work (avad) it and keep it.” - Genesis 2:15

As a reminder, avad is the verb form of avodah.

Adam’s first job wasn’t a punishment. It was a God-given calling. Work was always apart of God’s good design, from the very beginning. Adam’s work—gardening, stewarding, naming animals, co-creating with God—was an act of sacred service. Adam reflected his Creator through his creativity, his efforts, his care.

Fast forward to Exodus, and the same word—Avodah—is used for worship (or service, depending on the translation):

“Then the LORD said to Moses, “Go to Pharaoh and say to him, ‘This is what the LORD says: Let my people go, so that they may worship (avad) me.” - Exodus 8:1

So get this: The same word God uses for Adam’s work in the garden is the word He uses for Israel’s worship/service in the wilderness. Mind-blowing, right?

Continuing down the storyline of God’s people entering the Promised Land, we hear Joshua’s strong and courageous words to the entirety of the people of Israel in Joshua 24:14-15. (Avad, the verb form of avodah, is used seven times in these two verses, translated to English as serve. I will read it saying the original word in place of the English word serve.)

14 “Now therefore fear the LORD and serve (avad) him in sincerity and in faithfulness. Put away the gods that your fathers served (avad) beyond the River and in Egypt, and serve (avad) the LORD. 15 And if it is evil in your eyes to serve (avad) the LORD, choose this day whom you will serve (avad), whether the gods your fathers served (avad) in the region beyond the River, or the gods of the Amorites in whose land you dwell. But as for me and my house, we will serve (avad) the LORD.”

These powerful words can be directed toward us today.

Choose this day who you will avad. Will you work with the LORD and partner with Him? Will you serve the LORD? Will you worship the LORD your God?

Somewhere along the way, we lost this concept of avodah. We split life into “sacred” and “secular.” Church is sacred. Bible studies, worship music, prayer—those things matter to God. But work? That’s just survival. That’s paying the bills. That’s a result of the Fall, of sin.

Except...based on God’s Word, that clearly doesn’t seem to be the way God sees it.

Perhaps this helps to explain why we feel so disillusioned with our work. We and the rest of the world are operating out of alignment with God’s perfect will, Word, and design. No wonder we can be prone to loathe work, care nothing for it, or make an idol of it.

It makes one wonder, how did Jesus feel about work?

How did Jesus’ actions reveal what He truly believed about working?

Jesus, a Carpenter, and You

Think about this: Jesus spent almost all of his life working and serving.

Jesus’ ministry was three years of almost constant work, at least six days a week, amid daily discomfort. Remember His response to the scribe who came up and said to him, “Teacher, I will follow you wherever you go.” Jesus said to him, “Foxes have holes, and birds of the air have nests, but the Son of Man has nowhere to lay his head” (Matthew 8:20).

Jesus didn’t start his public ministry until He was ~30 years old. Before that? He was a carpenter, a craftsman, like his earthly dad, Joseph. How do we know that? After Jesus preached and healed a few sick people in His hometown of Nazareth, the people who knew Him growing up were amazed and questioned His wisdom and works, saying:

“‘Is not this the carpenter, the son of Mary and brother of James and Joses and Judas and Simon? And are not his sisters here with us?’ And they took offense at him.” - Mark 6:3

Like most Jewish boys in his time, Jesus likely started as a carpenter’s apprentice when He was around 13 years old and completed His apprenticeship by 20 years old.

Imagine that. The Messiah of the world making furniture, installing cabinets and countertops, building beautiful wooden frameworks, and sweating in the Galilean sun for 17 years or so, from age 13-30.

What about before Jesus was an apprentice? What about Jesus as a kid? Like every other boy his age, Jesus would have likely been in a Jewish synagogue school from age 6 or 7 until 13 or so, where Jewish boys learned to read, write, and memorize the Torah, that is, God’s teaching or “law,” from the start of Genesis to the end of Deuteronomy.

How do you imagine Jesus was as a carpenter? What was Jesus like as an apprentice or as a student?

So so? Mediocre? Distracted? No chance.

If “Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever” (Hebrews 13:8), then we can conclude based on Christ’s attributes revealed throughout the Scriptures that Jesus worked with faithfulness, diligence, intentionality, wholeheartedness, sincerity, focus, enthusiasm, awareness, integrity, and excellence.

Knowing Jesus fulfilled the Law, we can conclude that Jesus truly loved God with all His heart, with all His soul, with all His mind, and with all His strength, even as He studied, learned, and worked.

In Luke 2:41-52, when 12-year old Jesus was found at the temple in Jerusalem, we see that Jesus sought His Father’s will first and yet, returned with His parents and submitted to them. We find in Luke 2:52 that “Jesus increased in wisdom and in stature and in favor with God and man.”

Jesus knew His work mattered to His Father in heaven. Jesus did all that He did to glorify His Father. If Jesus our Savior and Lord worked, then work cannot be less than “spiritual.”

In John 5:1-17, after healing the disabled man at the pool of Bethesda, the Jews were persecuting Jesus because he was doing these things on the Sabbath.

“But Jesus answered them, ‘My Father is working until now, and I am working.’” - John 5:17

If Jesus’ work was meaningful, worshipful, and pleasing to His Father in heaven, then so too is our work meant to be meaningful, worshipful, and pleasing to our Father in heaven.

Yes, even our spreadsheets. Even our calls with customers and coworkers. Even scrubbing our toilets. Our faithfulness in little matters to God! Jesus Himself said,

“One who is faithful in a very little is also faithful in much, and one who is dishonest in a very little is also dishonest in much.” - Luke 16:10

Concerning faithfulness in little and the Kingdom of God, Jesus gave the Parable of the Talents (Matthew 25:14-30). To the first and second servants who were faithful in little with their master’s wealth, the master gave the same message:

“Well done, good and faithful servant. You have been faithful over a little; I will set you over much. Enter into the joy of your master.” - Matthew 25:21, 23

We are called to do all that we do for the glory of God (1 Corinthians 10:31). It is worth noting that working for God’s glory comes with an awareness of God’s presence with us and in us through His Spirit.

Avodah with God is not accidental, absent-minded, or independent. We are to work with God, to partner with God, and rely on His leadership, strength, and wisdom.

Working with God, God’s way, is not normal. This is countercultural work. Avodah with God, God’s way, is utterly unusual relative to the way almost everyone works—the world’s way.

Nevertheless, avodah with God, God’s way, is the best way. It is the most satisfying, fulfilling, and meaningful way. It is glorious, challenging, and worthwhile.

*An important note:

The call to “avad with God” does not negate the fact that we are to rest. God’s Word reveals His will and design for our partnership with Him, but it does not endorse workaholism or making an idol of busyness.

According to Blue Letter Bible, the Hebrew word šāḇaṯ (שָׁבַת) (pronounced shaw-bath'), that is, to cease, desist, or rest, is mentioned 71x in the Old Testament.

In the New Testament, Jesus Himself said,

28 “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest (anapauō). 29 Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. 30 For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.” - Matthew 11:28-30

The Greek word used here for rest is anapauō (ἀναπαύω), pronounced an-ap-ow'-o, used 12x in the New Testament. According to Blue Letter Bible, this word’s use is outlined as the following:

* to cause or permit one to cease from any movement or labour in order to recover and collect his strength

* to give rest, refresh, to give one's self rest, take rest

* to keep quiet, of calm and patient expectation

**Another important note:

The call to “avad with God” does not negate the fact that there are set apart moments for wholehearted, undistracted worship. According to Blue Letter Bible, the Hebrew word šāḥâ (שָׁחָה) (pronounced shaw-khaw'), mentioned 172x in the Old Testament, and Greek word proskyneō (προσκυνέω) (pronounced pros-koo-neh'-o), mentioned 60x in the New Testament, both highlight the need to bow before the Lord in reverence and submission.

If you were blessed by this, please share it with a friend!

This free devotional comes from my book, Thank You, Father: 30 Days of Gratitude, Prayer, & Praise - Men’s Devotional, available on Amazon: Ebook, $7.99 (or $0.00 for Kindle Unlimited) or Paperback, $13.99.

Day 11: The Gift of Godly Relationships

"Iron sharpens iron, and one man sharpens another."

Proverbs 27:17

"Two are better than one, because they have a good reward for their toil. For if they fall, one will lift up his fellow. But woe to him who is alone when he falls and has not another to lift him up!"

Ecclesiastes 4:9-10

"A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for adversity."

Proverbs 17:17

Devotional

As God has eternally existed in community— Father, Son, and Spirit—we too are designed to build and maintain community in faith.

Godly relationships are a practical blessing and crucial for the spiritual growth of both parties involved.

Adversity is inevitable and we are not meant to walk through it alone.

Our God is with us and He uplifts and sharpens us through faithful friends.

When we surround ourselves with godly companions, we find mutual strength, support, and encouragement as we step forward in faith day by day.

Men of God

As men, we can be prone to self-reliance and self-isolation, thinking we have to handle our problems on our own.

These lies stymie our spiritual growth. In reality, we are never alone. We are utterly dependent on our God who works through people to accomplish His will.

In His kindness, God gives us brothers who love Him and love us.

These verses remind us of the pricelessness of faith-filled friendships and the impact they can have on our lives.

We are not called to be passive recipients. Instead, these passages challenge us to be men of God who sharpen, work with, lift up, love, and support our brothers in faith.

Application

Today, take time to invest in your Christ-centered relationships. Thank God for mutual sharpening. Seek to be a true friend and brother. Be there for others in times of need, even if they weren’t there for you. Be an example as you follow Christ’s example.

Let the Lord lead you in seeking mentorship or opportunities to disciple another. Likewise, take the initiative to invest in upbuilding conversations and shared experiences. If you feel isolated, reach out to someone you trust and begin cultivating a godly friendship. We can trust God to sharpen us through fellow men of God.

Prayer

Heavenly Father,

Thank You for the gift of Your Son, Jesus, the perfect example of a brother and friend.

Thank You for committed friends who love well and remain steadfast through adversity.

Thank You for the men and women of God You have placed in my life. Thank You for this eternal family in faith.

Help me, Lord, to be a faithful friend who loves, sharpens, and supports others in every season.

Grant me the wisdom I need to invest in godly friendships, discipleship, and mentorship.

May these relationships honor You and bring glory to Your name.

In Jesus' name, I pray. Amen.

Divine Dialogue

Pause, Listen, Record, and Respond

John 10:1-18

Klein, Tanner. "Day 11: The Gift of Godly Relationships." Thank You, Father: 30 Days of Gratitude, Prayer, & Praise, KLEINHAUS Books, 2024, pp. 93-99.

*Thank You, Father: 30 Days of Gratitude, Prayer, & Praise - Men’s Devotional is available on Amazon: Ebook, $7.99 (or $0.00 for Kindle Unlimited) or Paperback, $13.99.*

This free devotional comes from my book, Thank You, Father: 30 Days of Gratitude, Prayer, & Praise - Men’s Devotional, available on Amazon: Ebook, $7.99 (or $0.00 for Kindle Unlimited) or Paperback, $13.99.

Day 10: Serving God by Serving Others

"For you were called to freedom, brothers. Only do not use your freedom as an opportunity for the flesh, but through love serve one another. For the whole law is fulfilled in one word: 'You shall love your neighbor as yourself.'"

Galatians 5:13-14

"Do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves. Let each of you look not only to his own interests but also to the interests of others. Have this mind among yourselves, which is yours in Christ Jesus, who, though he was in the form of God, did not count equality with God a thing to be grasped, but emptied himself, by taking the form of a servant, being born in the likeness of men. And being found in human form, he humbled himself by becoming obedient to the point of death, even death on a cross."

Philippians 2:3-8

"As each has received a gift, use it to serve one another, as good stewards of God's varied grace."

1 Peter 4:10

Devotional

From the beginning, God’s heart for service and love for others is evident.

Jesus, the King, came to serve.

The Lord Himself set the ultimate example of selfless service—He humbled Himself to the point of a gruesome death on the cross to save us from the penalty and power of sin.

As followers of Christ, we are called and freed to follow Christ’s example, to serve others in love.

As stewards of the Holy Spirit and the gifts God has given us, we are empowered to serve with the strength that God supplies, so that in everything God may be glorified through Jesus Christ.

Men of God

In our world today, we are often encouraged to compete, lead, and put ourselves first.

However, God's Word and Christ’s example reveals that we are to embrace humility. We are called to prioritize the needs of others in response to what He has done for us.

In fact, “We love because He first loved us” and are commanded by God to love our brothers and sisters in Christ (1 John 4:19, 21).

We get to exhibit our love for God by serving others, knowing our Father doesn’t overlook the work and the love we show Him by serving His saints (Heb. 6:10).

When we serve with a heart of gratitude, we reflect the character of Christ and demonstrate His love to the world.

Application

Today, take a moment to consider the Lord’s love and sacrifice as an act of selfless service. Note how Christ has blessed you and called you to be a good steward of the gifts He has given to you. Consider the Lord’s invitation to use the freedom He secured for you to love and serve others.

Respond in faith. Pray for opportunities to use the gifts and time God has given you to serve others without expecting anything in return. Seek out ways to practically bless your family, friends, coworkers, and community with genuine love and humility. Let your actions be driven by gratitude for the privilege of serving the One who gave it all for us.

Prayer

Dear Lord,

Thank You for the gift of salvation and the opportunity to serve You by serving other souls.

Search me and purify my heart, gracious God.

Help me to set aside selfish ambitions and pride that I may cultivate a heart of gratitude. Teach me to freely give as You freely gave, Lord.

Help me to count others as more significant than myself and to take action in love.

Show me how to use the gifts and time You have given me for the benefit of others. May I reflect Your love and humility.

May my life be a testimony of Your grace and goodness.

In Jesus' name, I pray. Amen.

Divine Dialogue

Pause, Listen, Record, and Respond

1 Samuel 3:10

Klein, Tanner. "Day 10: Serving God by Serving Others." Thank You, Father: 30 Days of Gratitude, Prayer, & Praise, KLEINHAUS Books, 2024, pp. 85-91.

*Thank You, Father: 30 Days of Gratitude, Prayer, & Praise - Men’s Devotional is available on Amazon: Ebook, $7.99 (or $0.00 for Kindle Unlimited) or Paperback, $13.99.*

This free devotional comes from my book, Thank You, Father: 30 Days of Gratitude, Prayer, & Praise - Men’s Devotional, available on Amazon: Ebook, $7.99 (or $0.00 for Kindle Unlimited) or Paperback, $13.99.

Day 9: Creation Points to the Creator

“For thus says the LORD, who created the heavens (he is God!), who formed the earth and made it (he established it; he did not create it empty, he formed it to be inhabited!): ‘I am the LORD, and there is no other.’”

Isaiah 45:18

“When I look at your heavens, the work of your fingers, the moon and the stars, which you have set in place, what is man that you are mindful of him, and the son of man that you care for him?

Psalm 8:3-4

“But ask the beasts, and they will teach you; the birds of the heavens, and they will tell you; or the bushes of the earth, and they will teach you; and the fish of the sea will declare to you. Who among all these does not know that the hand of the LORD has done this? In his hand is the life of every living thing and the breath of all mankind.”

Job 12:7-10

Devotional

The LORD our God is the Creator and Sustainer of all life.

God’s wisdom and creativity are on display throughout creation: skyscraping mountains, unexplored oceans, awe-inspiring sunsets.

Among all creatures, only human beings are made in the image of God, the crown of His creation.

It is clear, all of creation reveals God’s handiwork. It reminds us to lift our eyes to our Creator in awe and wonder.

As our Designer, the LORD gets to decide our purpose and the conditions for our flourishing.

He is the Potter, we are the clay. Our God is both sovereign and exceedingly good.

Greater than all created beings or things is the brilliant Creator who delights in those who fear Him.

While our world is prone to idolize created things, the masterful design of God's creation is meant to inspire praise to the Creator Himself.

Men of God

It is easy to be engrossed in the busyness of life and overlook the signs meant to redirect our eyes to our Creator.

Oftentimes, we may fail to recognize or appreciate a moment in the presence of God.

These verses remind us to pause and recognize God’s wisdom, intentionality, and glory on display.

The warmth of sunshine, earth-splitting earthquakes, giant waves crashing, birds singing, voices harmonizing, our masterfully designed bodies—all creation testifies of God’s immeasurable power and intentional design.

Appreciating God’s creation helps us direct our gaze and praise to Christ.

While we are citizens of heaven, we are called to seek the welfare and pray on behalf of the places to which God sends us. As Jesus encouraged us, we are to pray, “Your Kingdom come, your will be done on earth as it is in heaven” (Matt. 6:10).

Application

Today, remember that the LORD of heaven and earth chose to create you. You are loved by the Author of life. Take some time to observe the wonders of God's creation. Reflect on the intricacies of nature, the diversity of the world’s creatures, and the beauty of the earth.

Consider how God's creation reveals His character. Think about how you steward the environment of your life—the relationships you have and the place in which you live—recognizing that all creation reflects the intentionality and creativity of our Heavenly Father.

Prayer

Dear LORD,

Creator of heaven and the earth, I am in awe of Your creativity. Your creation testifies of Your glory and wisdom.

Thank You for the beauty of the world around me. Thank You for the breath in my lungs, the heart beating in my chest, and the minute details I so often overlook.

Help me to appreciate Your intentionality on display in my life and praise You in response.

Thank You for designing me so uniquely and placing me here, now, as an ambassador of Christ to the world around me.

Help me to be a faithful steward of the life, relationships, time, and resources You have given me as an act of worship to You, Lord.

In Jesus' name, I pray. Amen.

Divine Dialogue

Pause, Listen, Record, and Respond

John 10:1-18

Klein, Tanner. "Day 9: Creation Points to the Creator." Thank You, Father: 30 Days of Gratitude, Prayer, & Praise, KLEINHAUS Books, 2024, pp. 77-83.

*Thank You, Father: 30 Days of Gratitude, Prayer, & Praise - Men’s Devotional is available on Amazon: Ebook, $7.99 (or $0.00 for Kindle Unlimited) or Paperback, $13.99.*

One of the countless many ways the Lord has confirmed His will for me to be in Paris as an ambassador of Christ and His Kingdom came through a particularly powerful series of events involving Isaiah 54:10-12, the motto of Paris, and a very shy girl’s response to God’s love.

Yesterday, after church I got to share the following testimony with two women we met, one from Germany and the other from Colombia. That’s one thing I really love about living on mission in Paris: it seems that nearly every tribe, tongue, and nation is represented here. I testified as we stood at Place de la République, a famous Parisian landmark across the street from our church and within view of a recently renovated restaurant aptly called: Fluctuat Nec Mergitur.

Fuctuat Nec Mergitur: The motto of Paris, can be seen across the city on schools and government buildings. This Latin phrase is featured on the official seal of the city underneath a depiction of a river sailboat. It translates to “Tossed by the waves [or storm-tossed] but does not sink.”

Every time I see this motto, I am reminded of God’s steadfast love and covenant of peace. It reminds me of His compassion and intentionality. It reminds me of God’s call to Paris and how He confirmed His will to me in such unexpected ways.

Years ago, during my last semester of college, I sat next to a very shy girl in my “Perspectives on World History” class. I got to know her over time and we usually had a small conversation before or after class. I’d ask her questions and often got to share my faith, including quick testimonies of what God has done, usually from that week. She was a daughter of Catholic Vietnamese immigrants, raised in Texas—1 in a million I’d guess. She had largely felt like a complete outsider all her life. I didn’t realize at the time how much our little conversations meant to her until later. She was just beginning to pursue God on her own and was looking to grow in faith.

Several weeks into the semester, she very shyly asked if I’d be willing to share the extended version of my testimony of God’s radical provision and power on display when He led me to go to Australia by faith. Plans failed, my prospective hosts bailed, and I was left with nowhere to go and no place to stay at midnight in Melbourne, Australia.

Then, God moved mountains and made a way where there seemed to be no way to faith-filled people, places to stay, and local Australian friends who showed me all over SE Australia, from Melbourne to Sydney to Melbourne again to Sydney again and beyond. It was awesome. God led every step of the way.

God even reminded me of His covenantal faithfulness before I even touched down in the Land Down Under, on the plane. As I submitted all my thoughts, uncertainties, and prayers to God, I pulled up my clear plastic pen from my notebook. As I did, the concentrated sunlight shined perfectly through my window-seat window and through my plastic pen to form a rainbow on my notebook page in the distinct shape of a key. It blew my mind. If I shifted the position of my hand or the pen itself, the key shape would morph and the rainbow would disappear.

I had never shared that rainbow key experience with anyone until I sensed the Lord led me to bring it up to this shy girl who wanted to hear all the details of my adventures with the Lord in Australia.

A week or so later, that same girl asked permission to share how God inspired her through my testimony. I was grateful to God and humbled. I made sure to share that I’d be so happy to hear how God inspired her and we met up again in the cafeteria. It turned out that while I shared my Australia testimony, the Lord highlighted four specific things to her:

* The Rainbow

* The Key

* God’s Kindness

* The Anchor (on my nautical bracelet)

She very timidly shared these four things with me, before sharing that she took these things to God in prayer and sought to find where in the Bible these four things converge. I was blown away by her intentionality and so curious. Where could you find a rainbow, key, God’s kindness, and an anchor in one place?

While we talked, I considered Noah’s ark and the rainbow that followed. No anchor specifically mentioned. Could there have been one, maybe. Surely, God’s kindness was on display to Noah and his family. Meanwhile, His righteous judgement against sin was carried out globally.

I contemplated of the hope we have in Christ, like an anchor to our souls, from Hebrews 18:16-20:

“…we who have fled for refuge might have strong encouragement to hold fast to the hope set before us. 19 We have this as a sure and steadfast anchor of the soul, a hope that enters into the inner place behind the curtain, 20 where Jesus has gone as a forerunner on our behalf, having become a high priest forever after the order of Melchizedek.”

Amen to that, but about the key and the rainbow?

Where could these things possibly be found together in Scripture: rainbow, key, kindness, and anchor?

I was bamboozled until she said, “I found some verses in the Bible that mentioned some of these things, then I found a passage with all four. Would it be if ok if I shared it with you?” she apprehensively asked me.

“Absolutely yes! Please share!” I responded.

She pulled up Isaiah 54:10-12 (NIV) and read.

10 Though the mountains be shaken and the hills be removed,yet my unfailing love for you will not be shaken nor my covenant of peace be removed,” says the Lord, who has compassion on you.

11 “Afflicted city, lashed by storms and not comforted, I will rebuild you with stones of turquoise, your foundations with lapis lazuli.12 I will make your battlements of rubies, your gates of sparkling jewels, and all your walls of precious stones.

She continued: “See verse 10. Though the mountains be shaken and the hills be removed, yet God’s unfailing love will not be shaken and His covenant of peace won’t be removed. There’s the anchor!” In awe, we discussed how God’s unfailing love and covenant of peace are like an anchor that won’t be shaken or removed!

“See the end of verse 10,” she said, “it continues, ‘says the Lord, who has compassion on you.’ There’s God’s kindness!” That was clear.

“I’m not so sure about the how the beginning of verse 11 applies to you, but I see the rainbow and key in verse 11 and 12.”

11 “Afflicted city, lashed by storms and not comforted, I will rebuild you with stones of turquoise, your foundations with lapis lazuli.12 I will make your battlements of rubies, your gates of sparkling jewels, and all your walls of precious stones.

She continued: “As I prayed, I considered what keys are used for: unlocking and opening things, like doors or gates. Verse 12 mentions these “gates of sparkling jewels.” Also, as I prayed, I feel like God showed me how your words and testimonies have been like a key that God has used to unlock and open up things in my heart and in my faith. You said to me that I was ‘a light.’ No one has ever said something like that to me. I think that God has given you a key to unlock and open up people’s hearts, to encourage them and to share God’s love for them.”

I was dumbfounded in awe. Little did I know what the Lord had done, nor how much fruit had come from the little seeds of faith planted every day in our small, seemingly insignificant conversations. They were not insignificant to this daughter of the King.

Within the next few days, the Lord convicted me to write this passage on my heart through another passage I read upon waking up. I love Proverbs 3:5-6, but it was as though I read Proverbs 3:3-4 for the first time. As though a response to God’s steadfast love mentioned in Isaiah 54:10, Proverbs 3:3-4 says:

3 Let not steadfast love and faithfulness forsake you; bind them around your neck; write them on the tablet of your heart.4 So you will find favor and good success in the sight of God and man.

That was all the motivation I needed to internalize Isaiah 54:10-12 and recognize the Lord’s confirmation that this passage is one I’m not meant to forget.

As though all of this wasn’t encouraging enough already, my shy friend followed up with me a week or two after with a new revelation. She had prayed to better understand the meaning of the phrase “Afflicted city, lashed by storms” mentioned in Isaiah 54:11. The Lord reminded her that when I first shared my Australia testimony to her, I had mentioned that the Lord was clearly directing me to Paris and had convicted me to commit to praying for Paris daily. In her research she discovered the motto of the city of Paris:

Fuctuat Nec Mergitur.

Paris, a city “Tossed by the waves but does not sink.”

Paris, “Afflicted city, lashed by storms,” or storm-tossed, but does not sink by God’s grace.

Bingo! The puzzle was finally complete.

Not only is Isaiah 54:10-12 a powerful reminder of God’s steadfast love, covenant of peace, compassion, and commitment to His people and to Jerusalem, but also a potent personal reminder of God’s steadfast love, covenant of peace, compassion, and commitment to me, to others, and to Paris. I am in awe of the Lord’s love and intentionality.

Little does the city of Paris know that its motto is derived from the Bible, Isaiah 54:11. Little does Paris know that it remains upheld by the grace of God.

Our God’s steadfast love, covenant of peace, compassion, and intentionality are UNMATCHED. Our God is the one true, living God, our Father—the only God who to speaks to His children. “Every word of God proves true; He is a shield to those who take refuge in him” (Proverbs 30:5). Our God is faithful to bring His word to fruition and He is actively working in us, through us and others, and in our midst to accomplish His will. Hallelujah!

Thanks for keeping up with LIFE ON MISSION with Tanner Klein. I pray that the Lord will bless and encourage all who read and listen to this. If you have been blessed by this post or another, feel free to share the link with a friend. May God bless you!

We’re laying the groundwork for God’s beautiful design for faith-filled work, service, and worship. More to come on: Avodah with God; Why does it matter to God? and What does it mean for us?

Understanding Avodah with God

Let’s start with a question: What if your work—your 9 to 5, your house chores, your endless emails—was actually worshipful and pleasing to God? Not just something you do to pay the bills, but something you do with God, something that serves God and draws you closer to Him?

I know. That may seem like a wild concept. Work? That’s a job. It’s what you do for 40 or so hours every week to make a living. Service? That’s something you do at a food pantry or volunteer work in your free time. Worship? That’s Sunday morning. Hands raised, eyes closed, singing our hearts out at church. But what if the Bible says otherwise?

What if your daily work—whether you’re a barista, a business owner, a mom changing diapers, or an artist starting a new project—is meant to be sacred?

What if we could learn to work with God, like partners, in whatever He guides us to do and pursue?

What if “work” looked like staying keenly aware of God’s presence with us, working as though serving the Lord rather than men, and intentionally rejoicing, praying, & giving thanks throughout the day?

If so, our lives, perspectives, and impacts would look very different.

Work, for most of us, is exhausting. We can love what we do and hate what we do, sometimes in the same day. We can view our our jobs and roles in many ways depending on how we feel about what we do for work.

On one end of the spectrum, we may loathe work and see it as strenuous toil (thanks to the Fall), as a “necessary evil.” We’d love to do something else, or even work as little as possible, but everything costs money, so we have to work. We dread Mondays because we know what’s coming: coworkers, bosses, calls, meetings, deadlines, and boring to-dos sprinkled with seemingly unnecessary responsibilities you wish you could offload to someone else.

Alternatively, we may feel indifferent about our work. “It is what it is.” It may be “just a paycheck” or it just really doesn’t seem to matter. Perhaps it doesn’t seem personally meaningful or impactful when compared to other roles or professions that are “really making a difference in the world.” We may not resonate whatsoever with our role, job, or career.

On the other end of the spectrum, we may see our work as our primary source of identity. “I am a…” (fill in the blank).

“I am an artist,”

“I’m a sales manager at…”

“I am an owner of…”

“I am an entrepreneur,”

“I am The Assistant to the Regional Manager…” etc.

Our role might give us a deep sense of pride and meaning, as well as stress and anxiety motivated by fear. We can idolize work. We can see our work as the means through which we achieve our dreams, overcome challenges, build a career, build wealth, and grow as an individual. We can adopt a self-sufficient, self-dependent, self-centered belief system built on pride. “My time, my money, my life: I want to do what I want, when I want, how I want.”

We can do all that we do, strive for 40+ hour weeks, and even build a career over a span of years or decades, all without being aligned with God’s design for our work, without recognizing God presence, relying on His grace and wisdom, or partnering with our ever-present God who longs to empower us with the ability and desire to do His will and let His light shine through us to those around us as ambassadors of Christ and His Kingdom.

According to God’s Word, He is the one working in and through us to make a lasting impact.

13 “for it is God who works in you, both to will and to work for his good pleasure.” - Philippians 2:13

According to God’s Word, He is the one who gives us the strong support we need.

9 “For the eyes of the Lord run to and fro throughout the whole earth, to give strong support to those whose heart is blameless toward him…” - 2 Chronicles 16:9

If our Maker has the final word, then our perspectives should align with His Word revealing His will.

Adapting our beliefs according to God’s will regarding our work is an urgent matter because God’s will matters.

Most of us are spending eight or so hours a day doing something. That’s one-third of our day. That’s at least half of our waking hours, five+ days a week, for 40+ years of our lives! There must be a better way for us to approach our work. The question then becomes: How do we work with God and do it God’s way?

Avodah: A Word That Changes Everything

The Bible talks a whole lot about work and service. It also has a lot to say about praise and worship. In my research, I’ve found there are only a few commands from Genesis to Revelation that are mentioned more than the Hebrew noun Avodah (עֲבוֹדָה) and verb Avad (עָבַד)—the action of avodah. The word love, for example, occurs 551 times in 505 verses in the Bible (ESV). The following are the number of times these key themes are mentioned in Scripture: faith (278x), hope (151x), praise (207x), joy (179x), give thanks (128x), rejoice (161x), serve (213x), work (367x).

The Hebrew noun Avodah (עֲבוֹדָה) and the verb Avad (עָבַד) help to unveil God’s original design for our work. This concept appears 441 times in the Old Testament, and depending on the context, avodah primarily gets translated to English in three different ways:

* Service—as in serving God and others.

* Work—as in labor, our daily physical efforts toward a goal.

* Worship—as in bowing before God in intentional thanks, praise, adoration, &/or celebration of God.

Avodah reveals the multifaceted nature of God’s design for us to partner with Him.

What is the equivalent to Avodah in the New Testament?

In the New Testament, we find another word that closely reflects the heart behind avodah, the Greek word latreuō (λατρεύω), pronounced (lat-ryoo'-o). Latreuō highlights the concept of worshipful service devoted to God. It is most often translated into English as serve. For example, we find the word latreuō in Jesus’ words in Matthew 4:10,

“Then Jesus said to him, “Be gone, Satan! For it is written,

‘You shall worship the Lord your God and him only shall you (latreuō) serve.’”

We also see the word latreuō translated as worship. I think latreuō is best defined by Hebrews 12:28-29,

28 “Therefore let us be grateful for receiving a kingdom that cannot be shaken, and thus let us (latreuō) offer to God acceptable (latreuō) worship, with reverence and awe, 29 for our God is a consuming fire.”

Another example of latreuō translated as worship is found in Revelation 22:3,

“No longer will there be anything accursed, but the throne of God and of the Lamb will be in it, and his servants will (latreuō) worship him.”

Based on God’s Word, it is clear that we are designed to “avad with God,” that is, to work with, serve, and worship Him. Avodah with God is not just from 9-5, or as a volunteer every so often, or on Sunday mornings. Avodah is our response in faith to who God is and all He has done. There is no man-made separation between the “spiritual” and the “secular” here. This may seem crazy to us, but only because we have made distinctions between work and service and worship, between sacred and secular.

There’s no hard line between what happens in church and what happens at your desk, your home, your job site.

We are designed for avodah with God.

We are designed for meaningful work and worshipful acts of devotion over the long run.

Avodah with God is about God’s children walking in a manner worthy of their calling, utilizing their gifts, time, and talents to serve God by serving others and glorify God through their work.

Our God cares. Our God sees, and our God is for us, working in us, ready and willing to give us both the desire and the ability to do what pleases Him. That is good news!

*An important note: The call to “avad with God” does not negate the fact that there are set apart moments for wholehearted, undistracted worship. The Hebrew word šāḥâ (שָׁחָה) (pronounced shaw-khaw'), mentioned 172x in the Old Testament, and Greek word proskyneō (προσκυνέω) (pronounced pros-koo-neh'-o) mentioned 60x in the New Testament, highlight the need to bow before the Lord in reverence and submission.

If you were blessed by this, please share it with a friend!

This free devotional comes from my book, Thank You, Father: 30 Days of Gratitude, Prayer, & Praise - Men’s Devotional, available on Amazon: Ebook, $7.99 (or $0.00 for Kindle Unlimited) or Paperback, $13.99. If you’ve been blessed by this devotional, you can leave a review on Amazon—that would bless me.

Day 30: Embracing a Heart of Gratitude

“Enter his gates with thanksgiving, and his courts with praise! Give thanks to him; bless his name!”

Psalm 100:4

“And let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, to which indeed you were called in one body. And be thankful. Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly, teaching and admonishing one another in all wisdom, singing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, with thankfulness in your hearts to God. And whatever you do, in word or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.”

Colossians 3:15-17

“The LORD is my strength and my shield; in him my heart trusts, and I am helped; my heart exults, and with my song I give thanks to him.”

Psalm 28:7

Devotional

Gratitude is a worshipful response to daily life in the presence of our glorious God.

Whether it’s seemingly extraordinary or dull, whatever we do can be worshipful unto the Lord.

We have been offered the Word and the peace of Christ, meant to dwell richly and rule in our hearts as we contribute our God-given gifts to build up the Body of Christ.

We get to do what the living God leads us to do in the name above every other name, the name of the Lord Jesus—singing songs of praise to the Lord with thankfulness in our hearts to Him.

We are invited by our Creator to draw near to Him with gratitude, to rejoice in His presence, and bless His holy name.

Our God is worthy to be trusted, cherished, and praised.

Men of God

As men who have trusted in the Lord, we have a real relationship with God our Father through Jesus Christ, and the Spirit of God dwelling in us.

We have every reason to direct our wholehearted thanks to the LORD without ceasing.

Embracing this heart of gratitude helps us cultivate humility and steadfast trust in our Lord.

It is a daily choice and a crucial step toward a transformed, faith-filled perspective, better aligned with the Father’s will for us.

As we embrace the Lord as our first love and greatest treasure, gratitude overflows into every aspect of our lives, from our relationships and work to our spiritual growth in Christ.

Application

Today, set apart intentional moments to thank God for His love, grace, presence, and provision. Write notes or set reminders for yourself (e.g., “Give thanks to the Lord for He is good!” or “Psalm 28:7” or “Jesus is with us!”).

Remember who He is and what He has done. When feelings of comparison or lack creep in, respond to the Holy Spirit’s promptings to fix your eyes upon Jesus. Remember the cross and the empty tomb. Never let go of the Lord’s promise that He would never leave nor forsake you. Let thankfulness permeate your thoughts, words, and actions throughout the day. As you move forward in faith, seek opportunities to encourage others with this faith-filled attitude of gratitude.

Prayer

Heavenly Father,

You are my strength and my shield. The world is dark, but You are trustworthy and always good, Lord.

Thank You for Your constant presence and care. You are worthy of honor and praise.

In response to Your goodness, help me to cultivate a faith-filled lifestyle of gratitude.

May Your Word dwell in me richly and Your peace rule in my heart, that I may bless the Body of Christ.

Thank You for the Holy Spirit, helping me to meditate on Your Word and respond to it by faith. Teach me to do all You empower me to do in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to You, Father, through Him.

May I reflect Your light brightly to the world around me, that You would be praised, Lord.

For all You have done and all You do, I will give thanks to You today, gracious God!

In Jesus' name, I pray. Amen.

Divine Dialogue

Pause, Listen, Record, and Respond

1 Samuel 3:10

Klein, Tanner. "Day 30: Embracing a Heart of Gratitude." Thank You, Father: 30 Days of Gratitude, Prayer, & Praise, KLEINHAUS Books, 2024, pp. 245-251.

*Thank You, Father: 30 Days of Gratitude, Prayer, & Praise - Men’s Devotional is available on Amazon: Ebook, $7.99 (or $0.00 for Kindle Unlimited) or Paperback, $13.99.* If you’ve been blessed by this devotional, you can leave a review on Amazon—that would bless me.

🇫🇷 La traduction française

Jour 30 : Adopter un Cœur Reconnaissant

« Entrez dans ses portes avec reconnaissance, dans ses parvis avec la louange ! Célébrez-le, bénissez son nom ! »Psaume 100:4

« Que la paix de Christ, à laquelle vous avez été appelés pour former un seul corps, règne dans vos cœurs ; et soyez reconnaissants. Que la parole de Christ habite en vous dans toute sa richesse ; instruisez-vous et avertissez-vous les uns les autres en toute sagesse, par des psaumes, des hymnes, des cantiques spirituels ; chantez à Dieu dans vos cœurs en vertu de la grâce. Et quoi que vous fassiez, en parole ou en œuvre, faites tout au nom du Seigneur Jésus, en rendant par lui des actions de grâces à Dieu le Père. »Colossiens 3:15-17

« L'Éternel est ma force et mon bouclier ; en lui mon cœur se confie, et je suis secouru ; mon cœur est dans l'allégresse, et je le célèbre par mes chants. »Psaume 28:7

Méditation

La reconnaissance est une réponse d’adoration à la vie quotidienne dans la présence de notre Dieu glorieux.

Qu’elle semble extraordinaire ou ordinaire, toute chose que nous faisons peut devenir un acte d’adoration au Seigneur.

Nous avons reçu la Parole et la paix de Christ, qui sont appelées à habiter abondamment en nous et à régner dans nos cœurs, alors que nous contribuons, avec les dons que Dieu nous a donnés, à l’édification du Corps de Christ.

Nous avons le privilège d’agir selon ce que le Dieu vivant nous conduit à faire, au nom qui est au-dessus de tout nom : celui du Seigneur Jésus — en chantant des louanges avec reconnaissance dans nos cœurs.

Notre Créateur nous invite à nous approcher de Lui avec gratitude, à nous réjouir dans Sa présence et à bénir Son saint nom.

Notre Dieu est digne de confiance, digne d’être aimé et digne d’être loué.

Pour Les Hommes de Dieu

En tant qu’hommes qui avons placé notre confiance dans le Seigneur, nous avons une relation réelle avec Dieu notre Père par Jésus-Christ, et l’Esprit de Dieu habite en nous.

Nous avons toutes les raisons d’adresser à l’Éternel nos remerciements les plus sincères, sans interruption.

Adopter un cœur reconnaissant nous aide à cultiver l’humilité et une confiance ferme en notre Seigneur.

C’est un choix quotidien et une étape essentielle vers une perspective transformée et remplie de foi, mieux alignée avec la volonté du Père pour nous.

En faisant du Seigneur notre premier amour et notre plus grand trésor, la gratitude déborde dans chaque aspect de notre vie : nos relations, notre travail, et notre croissance spirituelle en Christ.

Application

Aujourd’hui, réserve des moments intentionnels pour remercier Dieu pour Son amour, Sa grâce, Sa présence et Sa provision.

Écris des rappels ou des notes pour toi-même (par exemple : « Rends grâce à l’Éternel, car Il est bon ! », ou « Psaume 28:7 », ou « Jésus est avec nous ! »).

Souviens-toi de qui Il est et de ce qu’Il a fait. Lorsque des pensées de comparaison ou de manque surgissent, réponds aux invitations du Saint-Esprit en fixant les yeux sur Jésus.

Souviens-toi de la croix et du tombeau vide. Ne lâche jamais la promesse du Seigneur : Il ne te laissera jamais ni ne t’abandonnera.

Laisse la gratitude imprégner tes pensées, tes paroles et tes actions tout au long de la journée.

En avançant dans la foi, cherche des occasions d’encourager les autres avec cette attitude remplie de foi et de reconnaissance.

Prière

Père céleste,

Tu es ma force et mon bouclier.Le monde est sombre, mais Tu es digne de confiance et toujours bon, Seigneur.Merci pour Ta présence constante et Tes soins fidèles.Tu es digne d’honneur et de louange.

En réponse à Ta bonté, aide-moi à cultiver un mode de vie rempli de foi et de gratitude.Que Ta Parole habite en moi avec richesse, et que Ta paix règne dans mon cœur, afin que je bénisse le Corps de Christ.Merci pour le Saint-Esprit, qui m’aide à méditer Ta Parole et à y répondre avec foi.Apprends-moi à faire tout ce que Tu m’appelles à faire au nom du Seigneur Jésus, en rendant grâce à Toi, Père, par Lui.

Que je reflète Ta lumière avec éclat autour de moi, pour que Ton nom soit glorifié, Seigneur.

Pour tout ce que Tu as fait et ce que Tu fais encore, je Te rends grâce aujourd’hui, ô Dieu de grâce !

Au nom de Jésus, je prie.

Amen.

Dialogue Divin

Pause, Écoute, Note et Réponds

« Parle, Éternel, car Ton serviteur écoute. »

1 Samuel 3:10

🇫🇷 La traduction française de:

Klein, Tanner. "Day 30: Embracing a Heart of Gratitude." Thank You, Father: 30 Days of Gratitude, Prayer, & Praise, KLEINHAUS Books, 2024, pp. 245-251.

*Thank You, Father: 30 Days of Gratitude, Prayer, & Praise - Men’s Devotional est disponible sur Amazon : Ebook, 7,99 $ (ou 0,00 $ pour Kindle Unlimited) ou Broché, 13,99 $.* Si cette dévotion vous a été bénéfique, vous pouvez laisser un avis sur Amazon — cela me bénirait.

*La version biblique utilisée : Colombe (COL)

This free devotional comes from my book, Thank You, Father: 30 Days of Gratitude, Prayer, & Praise - Men’s Devotional, available on Amazon: Ebook, $7.99 (or $0.00 for Kindle Unlimited) or Paperback, $13.99.

Day 8: The Gift of God's Forgiveness

"He does not deal with us according to our sins, nor repay us according to our iniquities. For as high as the heavens are above the earth, so great is his steadfast love toward those who fear him; as far as the east is from the west, so far does he remove our transgressions from us."

Psalm 103:10-12

"If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness."

1 John 1:9

"In him we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of our trespasses, according to the riches of his grace, which he lavished upon us, in all wisdom and insight."

Ephesians 1:7-8

Devotional

God is full of compassion and love towards those who trust in Him for the forgiveness of their sins.

We can find hope in God’s promise that He will forgive us and “cleanse us from all unrighteousness” when we confess our sins (1 John 1:9).

By His mercy, we don’t get what we deserve.

Instead of receiving God’s just judgment for sinning against Him and others made in His image, we receive forgiveness and reconciliation with God because the sinless Lamb of God took our place on the cross.

By His grace, we are invited into life-giving communion with God Himself—Father, Son, and Spirit.

We have reason to rejoice in the LORD’s complete forgiveness.

Because of Christ’s sacrifice, our sins are removed from us as far as the east is from the west.

Men of God

While we may struggle with guilt and shame over past mistakes, we can find assurance in God’s promise to forgive whoever confesses to Him.

Thankfully, God’s promise to forgive is not limited by the depth or severity of our sin. It’s based on the blood of Christ and “the riches of His grace, which He has lavished upon us” (Eph. 1:7-8). Hallelujah!

God’s grace and kindness are meant to lead us to repentance. In His mercy, the just Judge offers the gift of redemption.

Because Christ paid the ultimate price for our sins, we have been reconciled to God by trusting in Him.

By His grace, we are forgiven and get to enjoy renewed fellowship with our Creator.

Application

Today, take time to reflect on God's forgiveness and your need for it. Remember what Christ Jesus accomplished for you. Consider what it cost Him to free you from slavery to sin and reconcile you to God.

Let the Lord search your heart and address any areas of unrepentant sin. Remember our God’s steadfast love toward those who fear Him and confess your sins before Him with a sincere heart, knowing that He is faithful and just to forgive. You will be cleansed by God as He promised. Embrace the gift of redemption and allow God's abundant grace to wash away any lingering guilt or shame.

Prayer

Heavenly Father,

I thank You for Your abundant forgiveness, transformative grace, and steadfast love.

Open my eyes to any ways I have sinned against You and others. Forgive me for my sins and cleanse me from all unrighteousness.

Cultivate a contrite spirit within me that I may walk humbly with You all my days, Good Shepherd.

Thank You for the forgiveness and redemption I have through Christ's sacrifice.

Teach me to live with a heart of gratitude in response to Your kindness and grace.

In Jesus' name, I pray. Amen.

Divine Dialogue

Pause, Listen, Record, and Respond

1 Samuel 3:10

Klein, Tanner. "Day 8: The Gift of God's Forgiveness." Thank You, Father: 30 Days of Gratitude, Prayer, & Praise, KLEINHAUS Books, 2024, pp. 69-75.

*Thank You, Father: 30 Days of Gratitude, Prayer, & Praise - Men’s Devotional is available on Amazon: Ebook, $7.99 (or $0.00 for Kindle Unlimited) or Paperback, $13.99.*

This free devotional comes from my book, Thank You, Father: 30 Days of Gratitude, Prayer, & Praise - Men’s Devotional, available on Amazon: Ebook, $7.99 (or $0.00 for Kindle Unlimited) or Paperback, $13.99.

Day 7: God's Good Word

"Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path."

Psalm 119:105

"All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, equipped for every good work."

2 Timothy 3:16-17

"The law of the LORD is perfect, reviving the soul; the testimony of the LORD is sure, making wise the simple; the precepts of the LORD are right, rejoicing the heart; the commandment of the LORD is pure, enlightening the eyes; the fear of the LORD is clean, enduring forever; the rules of the LORD are true, and righteous altogether. More to be desired are they than gold, even much fine gold; sweeter also than honey and drippings of the honeycomb. Moreover, by them is your servant warned; in keeping them there is great reward."