We are living in times where you must know the truth for yourself.  There is so much chatter, noise, and people talking about things that don’t’ really amount to much.  The conversation of the true follower of Jesus Christ must be different; one that aligns with obedience to God.  The Holy Scriptures give us great examples of such obedience.  Abraham, the father of faith, exemplifies what obedience to God looks like.  It is Faith and Obedience that are required to be a true follower of Jesus Christ.

We believe that Jesus was natural and supernatural all at the same time because he was God in the flesh.  In order for the believer to have a relationship God, he must work on being obedient to God. This can be challenging for the times we live in today; people want to believe in their own truth and be obedient to God when it is convenient.  The Apostle Paul was living in times very similar to ours. Like Paul, followers of Jesus Christ must be willing to lead by example and be obedient in all areas of their lives.

Life can feel like a battle and obedience may sometimes feel impossible.  Paul advances the thought of spiritual warfare and how it continues to play out, attempting to impede the process of obedience.  The battle in every person is the battle of the flesh, which is also a battle for obedience.  Paul reminds the believer, that there is conflict between the flesh (world) and spirit (God).  For I know that in me (that is in my flesh), dwelleth no good thing: for to will is present with me; but how to perform that which is good I find not. Romans 7:18 KJV

It is impossible to win the battles of life in the flesh and without help.  Paul reminds us of the importance of our faith and how our faith is what separates us from the world.  True Christians are followers and obedient to Christ and must separate themselves from the world.  Those who call themselves Christians but act in disobedience consistently, must take a closer look at themselves to determine if they are the true followers of Jesus Christ. Abraham gives us an example in Roman 4:20 of what faith and obedience should look like. He staggered not at the promise of God through unbelief: but was strong in faith, giving glory to God. Romans 4:20 KJV

Obedience to God strengthens our faith and the Word of God must be the foundation.  True believers must know the Word of God for themselves. People in the world will attempt to tell you what they believe to be true which may not align with God, but there is only one truth.  Obedience to God will always align with the truth which is rooted in the promises of God.  Abraham is the example of obedience as he believed the promises of God.  He responded through faith by listening and doing what God had called him to do.  

We all must agree that a true Christian operates in obedience to Jesus Christ.  This does not mean that a follower will perfectly do everything in the scriptures, but the obedience to Christ should make the attempt to stay in alignment with Him.

Abraham’s faith bore him the son Isaac, the representation of faith and obedience to God. He further confirms in order to be the true follower of God you must be in the Spirit of God, listening to God in order to follow God.  True obedience also requires walking with the Spirit.  The Word of God must be the foundation and obedience to the word is imperative. All of this takes place because we are in relationship with God through his Son.

Therefore, obedience to God as a follower of Jesus Christ requires focus on doing the work he has called us to do.  Obedience must be the optimal goal in every situation in order to complete the mission and do the work.  It is literally the one thing that makes or breaks a person.  We must always remember that our faith tells us that, God came down in the form of a human in the person of His Son Jesus Christ to give us a proof of concept of what obedience looks like.  Jesus is the example and the role model for complete and total obedience to God.

The Harvest is Plenty, but the Laborers are Few. 

The amount of distraction in the lives of people ranges from modest to massive; from simple to significant; from distracting to debilitating. Sonder is defined as the feeling of realizing that every other individual one sees has a life as full and as real as one’s own, where they are the central character and others have secondary roles. This profound awareness highlights that everyone has their own intricate inner world.
 
However as believers, Rick Warren reminds us, we are most like Jesus when you serve others. The majority of people spend most of their time at work, with family, and doing hobbies, which leads many to talk about the lack of time they have for service. The author says it is an overworked excuse for neglect of duty. The issue is not time, but rather rest in the realm of will and desire.

God has charged those who walk in “the way of the faith” to go out into the highways and byways and gather up the harvest of his people. God didn’t excuse us from this charge because our lives were busy.
 
Romans 12:1-2, God says, I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service. And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.
 
Our charge is to imitate Christ. This is our reasonable service. We must be renewed each and every day in the Word in order to carry out this daily assignment. We were created to worship/praise/serve the Lord with all our heart, with all our soul, and with all of our mind.  Our transformation to serving begins with renewed minds, obedient steps, and surrendered hearts.
 
How do we transform our minds to be a servant of God?
 
A. With our Connection
The Source will determine the course. We should invite the spirit of God to enter in to lead our willingness to adopt Christ’s attitude of love, unselfishness, servanthood, humility, and obedience; looking beyond our own interest for the sake of others. Understand that giving up self for service to others is truly the power of a humble mind because humility with love brings honor and exaltation to God. With God as your source, your spirit will align with His spirit and He will lead you.
 
B. With our Obedience 
Without commitment you will never start. Without consistency, you will never finish. TO IDENTIFY WHAT GOD DESIRES FROM YOU AND WHAT GOD HAS IN STORE FOR YOU, you must submit your will.
 
C. With our Sacrifice
The best action we can show God of our love is service to God’s people. Christ came to benefit others. God will use your yes to bless others and you. Saying yes to God will lead to more discovery and revelation of how God wants to use you.
 
JOY = Jesus, Others, & You!
So I encourage us to apprehend and utilize the strength that we have as a result of the power and might of the Spirit within these earthen vessels. Use your conviction and surrender to lead to your yes. This level of humility reminds us of what the Williams brothers sang, “I’m just a nobody, trying to tell everybody, about somebody, who can save anybody. Let’s get to work. See you in the vineyard!

When we stand at the altar and say “I do,” love feels full of certainty. We look into each other’s eyes, wrapped in promise and possibility, speaking vows that sound beautiful and bold—for better or worse, in sickness and in health, until death do us part. Yet in that sacred moment, our hearts are often focused on the joy ahead, not the weight those words may one day carry. We rarely imagine the seasons when life won’t unfold as planned, when dreams shift, health falters, finances strain, or expectations collide. And yet, it is in those very moments that love is revealed in its truest form.

The words of 1 Corinthians 13:1–7 move from poetic to powerful when love is tested. Love becomes patient when answers are delayed and progress feels slow. Love becomes kind when disappointment could easily harden the heart. Love chooses forgiveness when keeping score would feel justified. This scripture reminds us that love is not sustained by emotion alone; it is sustained by intention, humility, and grace. Love bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, and endures all things not because it is easy, but because it is committed.

When life doesn’t go the way we imagined at the altar, love looks like choosing one another again. It looks like staying present when walking away feels simpler. It looks like saying, “I may not understand this season, but I am still committed to you.” This kind of love is not weak or naïve; it is mature, resilient, and deeply rooted in covenant. It reflects God’s own love steadfast, sacrificial, and unmovable.

February often celebrates love with flowers, cards, and fleeting moments, but real love is built in everyday decisions to be patient, to be kind, and to remain hopeful even when circumstances change. Love is proven not in perfect seasons, but in the willingness to endure imperfect ones. And when we allow God to shape our love through life’s challenges, love becomes more than a feeling it becomes a testimony.

Let this be the month you choose intentional love. Choose patience over frustration, kindness over resentment, forgiveness over pride, and hope over discouragement. Remember this: real love is not revealed when everything is going right, it is revealed when love refuses to quit. The love that stays, grows, and endures is the love that builds strong marriages, restores hearts, and leaves a lasting legacy.

Prayer:

Lord, teach us how to love beyond the moment and into the covenant You designed. When life shifts and expectations are challenged, anchor our hearts in patience, kindness, and truth. Help us to love not from emotion alone, but from commitment and grace. Renew our hope, strengthen our resolve, and allow our love to reflect Yours—faithful, enduring, and full of purpose. Amen.

Motivational Thought

Real love isn’t revealed when life is perfect, it’s revealed when love refuses to quit. The love that endures is the love that transforms marriages, families, and legacies.

God is the God of generations. He does more than call a person; He calls a people to be in a perpetual relationship with Him. It is because of this generational call that He declared to Moses, “I am the God of your father, the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob” (Exodus 3:6). This statement is not simply a recitation of names; it is the pronouncement of a bloodline blessing. It was God reminding a descendant of Abraham of the promise made some 400 years earlier: “I will establish My covenant between Me and you and your descendants after you throughout their generations for an everlasting covenant, to be God to you and to your descendants after you” (Genesis 17:7).

Spiritual Inheritance

The blessed bloodline began with Abraham’s physical descendants, but "the Blessing of Abraham" encompasses the promise that through him, all nations would be blessed (Genesis 12:3). This expanded the covenant to a spiritual bloodline, fulfilled through the life, death, resurrection, and ascension of Jesus Christ. The Apostle Paul removed any doubt about the inclusion of Gentiles, writing, “if you belong to Christ, then you are Abraham’s descendants, heirs according to promise” (Galatians 3:29). Through Jesus, we all become spiritual descendants by faith (Galatians 3:7-9).

As spiritual heirs of Abraham, the Apostolic Church of God is also part of a blessed bloodline. The physical descendants of our founder, District Elder Walter Clemons, continue to be an integral part of our church family. Moreover, our spiritual union in Christ binds us together in an unbreakable bond of mission and legacy. Thus, our response to God’s faithfulness is threefold:

• Unity: It inspires us with an even greater determination to strive for the harmony of the Spirit by loving one another with a fervent and sincere heart.

• Stewardship: It invigorates our participation with a renewed commitment to utilize our spiritual, natural, and financial gifts to support the work of the ministry and strengthen the body of Christ.

• Legacy: It informs how we build for the generations to come, including those not yet born, by remembering our heritage of generational blessings and leaving our own blessings for the next.

Spiritual Intentionality

As we enter 2026, we do so with intentionality and purpose in our warfare, worship, and witness. We will employ the spiritual weapons that Christ has given us to wage spiritual warfare against the principalities and powers of this world—be it the human actors who perpetuate wickedness or the spiritual forces that influence them (2 Corinthians 10:4). At the same time, we will be more intentional about our worship, recommitting ourselves to assembling in person to encourage and strengthen one another (Hebrews 10:25). Lastly, we will purpose in our hearts to amplify our witness by sharing the love of Christ with others through our words and our actions.

2026 will be a year of forward momentum as we experience the power and presence of God in new ways. May His glorious grace guide us as our collective generations continue in one Spirit, one mission, and one legacy.

In Christ,

Rev. Isaac Hayes, D.Min.
Assistant Pastor

If you grew up in the church like me, then you remember when choirs were king. Before praise teams and individual mics, there were grand march-ins, matching robes, and that rich harmony that could fill the whole sanctuary. The silver robes were always saved for Christmas (if you know, you know). And if you know choirs, then you know Walter Hawkins. His 1978 hit “Be Grateful” has been a Black church staple for decades.

What used to be a familiar Sunday tune has become more like a life guide. The elders were right—you really do understand by and by, especially when your life has been filled with “unprecedented events.” From nervously anticipating Y2K to now, watching what feels like a crumbling democracy, Millennials have had our share of challenges, and honestly, we are tired! But as Mr. Hawkins reminded us way back in ’78—God never promised us sunshine.

If we didn’t know God, that reality might just add to the stress that meets us every morning. But because we do know Him, we have hope. Romans 8:18 reminds us that “our present sufferings are not worth comparing with the glory that will be revealed in us.” And Romans 8:28 says, “We know that in all things God works for the good of those who love Him.” Even when life feels heavy, He’s still working things out behind the scenes.

And yes, the stress of today can make us anxious, and doomscrolling might have us in a chokehold—but we still have so much to thank God for. 1 Peter 5:7 reminds us that He cares for us and invites us to cast all our cares on Him. Psalm 31:19 says, “How great is the goodness You have stored up for those who fear You,” and I take that personally.

So when life feels overwhelming and another breaking news story threatens to steal your joy, remember what Walter said—Be Grateful. Because “the God of all grace… will Himself restore you and make you strong, firm, and steadfast” (1 Peter 5:10). And for that, I am thankful.

Let me start this blog off by saying if you have received Jesus Christ as their Lord and Savior, you have a call on your life.  That means, God didn’t just save you from going to hell, He saved you for a purpose.  And that purpose is to win souls –that only you can relate to– to Christ.  II Corinthians 5:18 (NKJV) says, we have been reconciled back to God through Jesus Christ, and He has given us the ministry of reconciliation.  The challenge we face is Satan knows this, as well.

This does not imply that Satan is all knowing or all powerful, because he is not.  But every believer that comes to Christ is one less lost soul for Satan’s army.  Therefore, Satan’s job is to distract you from your calling, destroy your mission, contaminate your life, and poison your ministry.  His most effective weapon of choice is temptation.

Now, temptation is an enticement or an invitation to sin, with the implied promise of greater good to be derived from following the way of disobedience. This weapon of temptation is similar to that of a shotgun.  A shotgun is a firearm that uses the energy of a fixed shell to fire a number of small spherical pellets called shots that spread upon leaving the barrel. Temptation when fired upon you will destroy your spiritual growth and even damage those close to you.  Temptation seduces you to sin, but it also invites others to sin causing them to fail.

Have you ever been tempted with something you thought you were delivered from, yet to your surprise you found yourself giving in to that temptation?  Why is it so easy sometimes, even after salvation, to fall into temptation?  The answer is found in I Corinthians 10:12-13 (NLT) that says, “¹² If you think you are standing strong, be careful not to fall. ¹³ The temptations in your life are no different from what others experience. And God is faithful. He will not allow the temptation to be more than you can stand. When you are tempted, he will show you a way out so that you can endure.”

Every believer goes through periods of temptation in our lives, but our saving grace is that God never stops being faithful to us.  Even when we are not faithful to Him and we fall into temptation, God is still faithful. I John 1:9 (NKJV) says, “If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.”  God’s faithfulness does not depend on our obedience, but it originates from His unwavering love for us.  Not only that, but God will always provide a way or an avenue for us to overcome our temptation.

So the question then becomes, why is it that we don’t always follow the escape route that God provides for us? Is it because, sometimes we just want what we want?  Or is it because, we underestimate the cunning, shrewd, crafty, and even intelligent tricks of the enemy?  What we must understand is that we are in a war, and we are the targets; we are the prey, and our enemy is hunting us.  That’s what Satan does, he hunts the saints of God on a continuous and constant basis, and when he finds a kink in your armor, he zooms in on it.  I Peter 5:8 (NLT) says, “Stay alert! Watch out for your great enemy, the devil. He prowls around like a roaring lion, looking for someone to devour.” Satan will always try to tempt you with something that will discredit and disgrace God’s purpose for your life.

The reason we succumb to temptation is that we desire the temptation, more then we desire God.  And at some point we must make up in our minds that our relationship with our Savior is far more important than the thing, the person, or the circumstance that is tempting us.  And when Jesus was tempted by the devil in the wilderness, the way He overcame His temptation is with the Word of God.  That is the blueprint!  The Word of God will be your offensive weapon when you are faced with any kind of temptation.  Hebrews 4:12 (NLT) says, “For the word of God is alive and powerful. It is sharper than the sharpest two-edged sword, cutting between soul and spirit, between joint and marrow. It exposes our innermost thoughts and desires.”

Temptation comes from your innermost thoughts and desires that you shouldn’t do, but the Word of God will expose those and it will equip you with the ammunition to overcome your toughest tests.  Everybody is tempted, but it is how you respond to your temptation that determines and secures your ultimate victory.  And when you are tempted you must respond with the Word of God that says, Yet, in all these things we are more than conquerors through Him that loved us (Romans 8:37).  It is the Word of God that will enable you to overcome your temptations, therefore you must read your Word, so you can know your Word; and when you find yourself in the midst of temptation, you must call on THE WORD, in the person of Jesus Christ, and He will deliver you.

Have you ever heard the phrase “be fruitful” and wondered what it means? Is it even possible?

The first time we encounter “be fruitful” is in the book of Genesis. In chapter one, we learn that God commanded the waters to abundantly bring forth living creatures, including the fowl that fly above the earth in the open firmament of heaven. Then, He created great whales, other creatures that move in the water, and every type of winged fowl. After declaring them good, God blessed them and commanded them to “be fruitful and multiply” (vv. 20-22).

The next occurrence of “be fruitful” is in Genesis 1:24-28. After the Lord brought forth the living creatures of the earth—cattle, creeping things, and beasts—and declared them good, He made humans (male and female) in His image and likeness, blessing them, and commanding them to “be fruitful and multiply” (v. 28).

Be Spiritually Fruitful
 
Like the living creatures and humans in the creation account, believers in Christ are commanded to “be fruitful and multiply” spiritually. Let’s look at Psalm 1. In verses 1-2, the righteous person's positive characteristics are contrasted with the ungodly person's negative attributes in verses 4-5. When we closely examine verse 3, we discover that the righteous person is described as a tree planted by the rivers of water, being nourished continually, bringing forth fruit in her season, not experiencing withering leaves, and prospering in everything he does.

The prophet Jeremiah, speaking to the people of Judah, who trusted in men rather than God, explained what trusting in men would look like versus trusting in the Lord. Those who trust and hope in the Lord would be like a tree planted by the waters, having green leaves that will never cease to yield fruit (Jeremiah 17:5-8).

In the New Testament, we see indirect commands to be fruitful and multiply. For example, in John chapter 15, Jesus described to His disciples how He is the true vine and God (the Father) is the husbandman who owns and takes care of the vine (v. 1).[1] He explained that they were branches and admonished them to abide in Him so they would bring forth much fruit, adding this caveat: Without Him, they could do nothing (v. 5). In verse 16, Jesus reiterated that He selected and ordained (commanded) them to bring forth fruit that would always remain.

  Our Spiritual Source

Because Jesus is the vine, He is the source of our fruitfulness. We see this in the fourth chapter of John, where His disciples were baptizing more people than John the Baptizer while carrying out His directives (v. 1).

As we read further in the chapter, we observe Jesus encounter a woman preparing to draw water at a well in Samaria. In His dialogue with her Jesus describes two water sources. He tells her that whoever drinks natural water will thirst again, but He has spiritual water to give her that will be like a well springing up into everlasting life—symbolizing spiritual fruitfulness (vv. 7-14).

In Galatians 5:22-23, Paul identified the Source (seed) that dwells in believers, equipping us to produce the fruit (attributes) of love, joy, peace, long suffering, gentleness, goodness, meekness, and temperance. Thus, we have access to the Holy Spirit, who nourishes us to always be fruitful.

  “Be (Remain) Fruitful” Challenge

 We started with God’s command to “be fruitful.” A synonym for the word “be” is remain. Therefore, we should remain seedful by continuously depending on our life-producing Source to manifest spiritual fruit.

Faithfully, Relying, Undergirding, Inquiring, Trusting, Following, Unconditionally, Leaning

Over the next 7 days, identify several attributes of the fruit of the Spirit, allowing them to produce in your life. Journal the experience, considering the F.R.U.I.T.F.U.L. acronym above.
 
   1. What fruit did you identify?
   2. Did you remain faithful to allowing the Seed’s attributes to be produced?
   3. What obstacles did you experience that moved you to trust and lean on the Lord?
   4. Did you inquire through prayer how to allow the fruit’s attribute to manifest?
   5. Did you unconditionally rely on your Source?
   6. After you undergirded and followed through, how did it feel to produce the fruit’s attributes you identified?

Dr. Latouna Hayes is an ordained minister and serves on the Women’s Strategic Team, Pastoral Care Ministry, and Praise Team at the Apostolic Church of God in Chicago. IL. She is also a licensed clinical professional counselor and the founder of Peculiar Treasures Christian Counseling, which integrates psychotherapy with a biblical perspective. You can learn more about her Christian counseling and life coaching practice at www.peculiartreasuresministries.com.

  [1] Hindson, E. E., & Kroll, W. M. (1994). The KJV Parallel Bible Commentary (p. 2112). Thomas Nelson.

One of the classic movies from the 1980s was a film entitled Ferris Buehler’s Day Off.  After the film’s credits, unexpectedly, Ferris, after pulling off some of the most unbelievable shenanigans a high school teen could possibly pull off in a single afternoon, looks into the camera at the end of the film, breaking the “Fourth wall” and nonchalantly says, “Life comes at you fast.”  To borrow the obvious truth of that quote and everything it could imply and to draw some parallels with what the overwhelming majority of us are probably dealing with in our day-to-day lives, life isn’t just coming at us fast, but rather with all the fury of a tsunami.  And between the rising costs of food and fuel, of medical care and insurance, of housing and higher education, there seems to be no relief in sight.

Financial obstacles aside (and don’t even get me started on the clown show that is modern American politics), the effects on the mental and emotional stability of us all, irrespective of our levels of resilience, are taking a profound punishment.  Like wave after wave after wave on the seemingly invulnerable face of a towering mountain, where it looks like the waters have no impact, imperceptibly, the waves are eroding—little by little—the integrity of that mountain.  Likewise, we are experiencing erosion with each passing day.  Many of us are beset by a myriad of health challenges, either personally or those of a loved one (and when a loved one is carrying the cross of debilitating illness, we bear that cross with them).  The impact on our psyche when we have to witness a dear family member racked with inconceivable pain is undeniable and considerable.  With all that has been mentioned thus far, there seems to be no end in sight.

Many of you immediately picked up on the reference made through the title of this post, and I assure all of the near-zealous watchers of the classic television sit-com Good Times.  My wife and I are fanatics when it comes to that show; we’ve committed to memory nearly every line from every scene from every episode.

While I’d love to continue espousing my love for the fictional show Good Times (prior to Season Four), right now, things almost feel like we’re in a real-life episode of Good Times, like we’re all just trying to “keep our head above water.”  While that show had its dramatic and serious moments, it was a comedy—but what we’re all facing right now is no laughing matter.  What we’re in the midst of, dear reader, seems like the fight of our lives just to make it, just to do our best to provide for ourselves and our families; it seems like we’re out in the middle of the Atlantic, having fallen overboard from the cruise ship of safety.  You and I can tread water for just so long; eventually, you and I will tire, sooner or later we will run out of steam, and ultimately we will succumb to the foamy-white waters of the sea of life’s tribulations.  The physics of our situation is poised to outlast us.

But in steps Christ Jesus!  Our King, our fortress, our safe place, our strength, and like He lovingly did for Peter, who, in a faith-shaking moment of fear on the raging waters of the stormy sea, immediately reached out His hand to catch His disciple and friend from being swallowed by the waters’ waves (Matt. 14:22-32).  The faithful and strong hand of Christ is the ultimate life preserver, the best and greatest deliverer in calamity-filled moments.  He is a true deliverer, not an idea, not a conceptual deliverer, and certainly not a fictional character.  

Christ Jesus doesn’t extend His hand out of a sense of obligation or pity but out of the deepest love you or I could ever know, a love that fulfills and reassures, but one that ultimately empowers us to return to the fray after defeat, to get back to the labor of life even when the results of our most recent failure are still yet strewn about.  Brothers and sisters, I say with my whole chest: Christ is faithful!  And He will never fail you; He will never hurt you; He will never forsake you.  With Christ, we can do far more than just “keep our heads above water.”

“Then the channels of waters were seen , and the foundations of the world were discovered at Thy rebuke, O LORD, at the blast of the breath of Thy nostrils.  He sent from above, He took me, He drew me out of many waters” (Psalm 18:15-16).

We all crave certainty: a roadmap, a timeline, a plan. But when it comes to following God, it rarely works that way.
 
We live in an age of information overload. Every decision is backed by Google searches, YouTube videos, TikTok tips, and A.I. Tools. We want to know what is coming, when it is coming, and how to prepare for it.

But what happens when God calls us into something we cannot Google our way through? What do we do when His voice says, "Go to a place I will show you," but no other details are given? That is where faith begins, in the unknown, in the waiting, in the moments between the dream and the fulfillment.

And here is where many of us get stuck. We think waiting on God means standing still, simply passing the time. But in Scripture (James 2:14-26), waiting is not passive. It is active, more like a waiter attending to guests, moving with purpose and readiness. It is obedience in motion. We wait on God by tending to Him through worship, through His Word, through prayer. We listen. We serve. We stay ready so that when He moves, we are ready to step. If anyone knew about this kind of waiting, it was Abraham.

Imagine being told to leave everything familiar, your home, your land, your people, and head toward a destination God would reveal only after you started moving. There were no guarantees. No map. Just a word from God. Yet Abraham obeyed, trusting that the One who called him would lead him step by step.

Later, God promised that Abraham would become the father of many nations. This was an impossible dream. He was already old, and Sarah was well past childbearing years. Still, Abraham believed. He clung to God’s Word when nothing in his life seemed to support it.

And just when the promise began to unfold and Isaac, their long-awaited son, was finally born. God then asked Abraham to do the unthinkable—to offer his son as a sacrifice. How do you obey a command that seems to cost you everything? How do you reconcile the tension between the promise and the request? Yet Abraham obeyed the very next day. He trusted that God would make a way, even if it meant raising Isaac from the dead.

And in the very moment of obedience, God provided a ram in the bush to replace Isaac as the sacrifice. The promise was preserved. Abraham’s faith was refined, and his trust in God deepened.

So how do we endure when we are living in between the dream, the space where the promise has not fully arrived and the path is not clear?

We first anchor ourselves in the Word of God. The Holy Spirit leads us to all truth, but how much truth are we carrying in our hearts? If we are not soaking in Scripture, we are more likely to be led by feelings or fear. The Word reminds us of who God is, especially when doubt and discouragement start to whisper.

But it is not enough just to read the Word. We must also apply it. Scripture becomes alive when we live it out. The more we align our actions with God’s Word, the stronger our faith grows and the more clearly we hear His voice. His promises become personal when we obey them in everyday life.

We also lean into prayer, and not just the kind where we do all the talking. Listening is just as vital. We should be in constant communication with God. Allowing Him to be more than our Savior, but also our Lord. The one who leads our thinking, our decision making and our deeds. In those moments of stillness, we hear His guidance. His peace calms our restlessness. His voice reminds us we are not alone.

Moreover, we worship. Worship keeps our hearts aligned with heaven’s perspective. It reminds us that God is faithful, even when our current situation feels stuck. When we worship, we declare His goodness over our lives, even when the future looks uncertain.

And finally, we obey, especially in the small things. Faith is not about waiting for perfect circumstances. It is about moving in step with God day to day. Every small act of obedience grows our trust, sharpens our hearing, and prepares us for what is next.

I know the in-between can be hard. It is difficult to trust when the promise feels delayed or distant. But God is faithful in the waiting, in the uncertainty, and in the unseen. Like with Abraham, God already knows the end from the beginning. Sometimes He wants to reveal or strengthen our faith within by taking us on a tested journey. And in this journey, we see what we are made of. Will we trust His heart when we cannot trace His hand? One thing I know for sure is that we do not need to have it all figured out. We just need to stay close to the One who leads us.

I was reminded of this again while listening to "Lead Me On" by Chandler Moore, which inspired my writing today. This walk of faith is not about leaning on our own understanding. It is about trusting the God who holds it all. If He said He will do it, He will do it.

Today I encourage you to stay anchored in the Word, stay sensitive in prayer, stay worshipful in heart, and stay obedient in your walk. God is writing your story, and He will lead you on.

Minister Gary Foster, Jr. is the Director of the Young Adult Ministries at the Apostolic Church of God in Chicago, IL. Minister Foster is dedicated to inspiring this generation to live out their God-given potential. Follow him on social media @GAFJUN.

Mothers hold a unique and sacred role in God’s plan. As virtuous women, they embody the heart of Proverbs 31: women of strength, wisdom, and unwavering faith. Whether you’re a young mother navigating the challenges of raising little ones, a seasoned mother guiding teenagers, or an elder sharing wisdom with adult children and grandchildren, your role reflects God’s love in every season. Your love, prayers, and sacrifices do not go unnoticed by the Lord, and they serve as a testimony of faith to those around you.

In every stage of motherhood, God provides the wisdom and strength you need. Lean on Him in times of uncertainty, and trust that He is shaping you into the mother your children need. Remember that being a virtuous mother is not about perfection but about pursuing God and allowing His light to shine through you. Your dedication to prayer, kindness, and godly principles plants seeds of faith that will flourish for generations.

As you celebrate this Mother’s Day, take time to reflect on the incredible spiritual legacy you are creating. Whether you see the fruits of your labor now or later, know that your faithfulness is making an eternal impact. Be encouraged, virtuous mother—your worth is far above rubies, and your God is with you every step of the way.

First Lady,
Evangelist Mary Brazier

There was once a popular television game show where contestants would be presented with 26 briefcases. Concealed within each case were different amounts of money ranging from 1 cent to $1,000,000.  The game would begin with the player choosing one briefcase in hopes that it held the $1,000,000 prize and setting it aside for the duration of the game.  The contestant was then required to choose 6 other briefcases to be opened and discarded from the remaining 25.  If none of the 6 discarded briefcases contained the coveted $1,000,000, that increased the likelihood that the coveted amount was within the solitary case originally chosen.  At this time, a group of mysteriously disguised individuals referred to as the “bankers” would offer the player a certain amount in exchange for the briefcase chosen at the beginning of the game.

            The amounts offered by the bankers throughout the game were never equaled to $1,000,000 grand prize, but were appealing in that they provided a sure way to keep the player from going home empty handed.  What if there was only 1 cent in the chosen briefcase? In that scenario, accepting the amount from the bankers would certainly be the route to take. But then again, what if the case held the coveted $1,000,000? Accepting the bankers’ offer would be a foolish choice. The dilemma of the contestant was not knowing the value of what was in their case. And so it is with us when we don’t know what the Father has afforded us in Christ.

            If we are not careful, we can fall into the trap of pursuing the amassing of financial gain as the end goal at the risk of losing our soul which ultimately darkens the consciousness and ends in disappointment. This is why the apostle Paul wrote, “...the love of money is the root of all evil: which while some coveted after, they erred from the faith, and pierced themselves through with many sorrows”.(1 Timothy 6:10) And Jesus Himself warned of the danger of living primarily for financial gain when He said, “No one can serve two masters; for either he will hate the one and love the other, or else he will be loyal to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve God and mammon”.(Matthew 6:24)  
The greed that we see plaguing the political sphere, the corporate sector, global superpowers, families, communities and even religious institutions is the result of the love of money.  Ironically, it's not money the people really want, but the power it yields to possess the things that bring about a sense of security and satisfaction even if only for a while.

Yet, Jesus challenges us with a different point of view saying that God, our Father in heaven, knows the things that we need to be whole. He says, “Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy and where thieves break in steal; but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys and where thieves do not break in and steal”.(Matthew 6:19-20) Jesus would go on to eventually say, “...seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you”.(Matthew 6:33)

Jesus proclaims a better deal. He assures us that our Father in heaven knows what we need and will provide for us abundantly and eternally if we place our trust in Him.  That is why He preached everywhere saying, “...the kingdom of God is at hand. Repent, and believe in the gospel”.(Mark 1:15)  Jesus also said, “Do not fear, little flock, for it is your Father’s good pleasure to give you the kingdom”.(Luke 12:32)

As great as this sounds, for many, it seems too good to be true.  And so we tend to be like the contestant on that game show, having a briefcase that has the potential of having that which is of the greatest value, but being uncertain.  Yet, Jesus brings confidence by His words and works that what the Father has in store for us is better than $1,000,000 or anything else this world has to offer.

Better yet, Jesus guarantees the inheritance that the Father extends toward those who trust in Him, by enduring the cross even unto death and rising from the dead with all power in His hands settling once and for all, that the kingdom of God is truly accessible to all who believe.  Unlike the game show contestant, we know what is in our case by the Spirit of Christ. We don’t need to fall for the tactics of the enemy, who, like those “bankers”, offers us something that is far less in value than what God has set before us. Christ is the briefcase from heaven, in whom is eternal life. All the money in the world could never compare to the treasure that we have in Him. Without question, in Christ, we have a better deal.

Ladies, this one is for you, but gentlemen, don't worry—you're invited to the party! Women's History Month is about celebrating all of us, so grab a seat and join in!

Every year during Women’s History Month, I discover something new—often about a woman of color who persevered against impossible odds. Repeatedly, these women are no longer with us, and their contributions were hidden, stolen, or disregarded for years.

I am grateful for the historians who continue to unearth these stories so we can honor their legacy. Each time I learn about these women, I am struck by a bittersweet emotion—anger at the efforts to erase their legacy, but also deep admiration for what they achieved against all odds.

Their resilience and courage—whether in starting a business, advocating for women’s rights, or breaking barriers in various fields—remind me of the rich culture and strength inside of me. But beyond history, sometimes we do not have to look any further than the mirror to see someone worth celebrating.

You Are Wonderfully Made

The strength, beauty, and brilliance within us are a direct reflection on God’s intentional design.  

✨ He knows the number of hairs on your head. (Matthew 10:30, Luke 12:7)
✨ He formed you in your mother’s womb. (Jeremiah 1:5, Psalm 139:13)
✨ He declared that you are fearfully and wonderfully made. (Psalm 139:14)

This month let us celebrate YOU. Maybe you did not open a business, but you stood on business— starting or finishing that degree, completing that project, or overcoming that challenge. You showed up. You pushed through. And that is worth honoring.

Women Worth Celebrating

Throughout Scripture, we see women of faith who embodied wisdom, strength, and perseverance. Perhaps you see a reflection of yourself or someone you love in their stories.

• Like Priscilla (Acts 18:26) – Your wisdom and teaching helped someone else excel. That is worth celebrating.
• Like Naomi (Book of Ruth) – You guided a Ruth to her destiny with wisdom, counsel, and sponsorship. That is worth celebrating.
• Like the daughters of Zelophehad (Numbers 27:1-11) – You stood up for yourself and claimed what was rightfully yours. That is worth celebrating.
• Like Rahab (Joshua 2) – You used strategy and courage to negotiate for your family’s future. That is worth celebrating! (We listen, and we don’t judge! ?)
• Like Esther (Esther 3) – Your authenticity and faithfulness positioned you for divine favor. That is worth celebrating.
• Like the woman with the issue of blood (Matthew 9:20-22, Mark 5:25-34, Luke 8:43-48) – You refused to give up, pressing forward in faith for your healing. That tenacity is worth celebrating.

Whatever your journey looks like, it is worth celebrating.

Acknowledge the Strength Within: Honoring Yourself and Those Around You

Honoring yourself and those around you starts with recognizing the inherent value in every person—starting with you. When we take the time to acknowledge our own worth, we create a ripple effect that encourages others to do the same, cultivating a culture of mutual respect and empowerment.

· Recognizing Your Worth: Acknowledge the unique qualities and talents God has instilled in you. True strength comes from understanding that you are not defined by your circumstances, but by the divine purpose placed within you. It's crucial to recognize that your journey, no matter how challenging, is part of a bigger, purposeful story.

· The Power of Self-Affirmation: Self-acknowledgment isn’t about arrogance, but about affirming your value and purpose. When you take the time to honor yourself, you set the tone for others to honor you as well. By recognizing your own strength, you create space for others to see it too.

· Impacting Others Through Acknowledgment: Recognizing the strength in others—especially those walking beside you in faith—builds a network of mutual respect and encouragement. The more you honor those around you, the stronger and more connected your community becomes. Everyone needs encouragement, and sometimes a simple acknowledgment can spark transformation in someone's life.

· Empowerment Through Support: Strength doesn’t always mean standing alone—it’s often found in the collective. When we acknowledge our strength, we also build strength in others by fostering a culture of mutual respect and support. By uplifting those around us, we encourage growth and unity, creating an environment where everyone thrives.

· God’s Design for Strength and Unity: We are all made in God's image, and His design for us includes the power to uplift, heal, and grow together. When we acknowledge the strength within ourselves and others, we align with God’s plan for unity and support. This acknowledgment fosters a deeper sense of community and shared purpose.
 
 
Honoring the Role We All Play
 
Brothers, (see, I told you I didn’t forget about you—no skipping ahead!) we welcome you to celebrate as well. There is something seriously powerful about a man uplifting and honoring the women in his life—trust me, it’s more than just brownie points! The healing, restoration, and strength that come from such affirmation are immeasurable. When a culture of love and respect for women is cultivated, the impact can transform communities, relationships, and entire generations. So, gentlemen, let’s get in on this celebration—you don’t want to miss it!

As we celebrate Women’s History Month, let us remember that this journey is one of purpose, strength, and unity. Whether you are a woman walking in your God-given power or a man supporting and uplifting the women in your life, your role is vital. Every step, every challenge, and every victory is worth celebrating. Root for yourself and each other, knowing that you are valued, seen, and established by God. Together, let’s continue to honor the strength, beauty, and brilliance within us all. Happy Women’s History Month!"

Each morning as day breaks, before I’m even fully awake I hope the sun is shining. It awakens expectations for a day that will hold peace and joy that are ushered in by the brightness that it brings. I enjoy the sun bursting through the window, sometimes almost piercing the day to let me know it’s time. It’s time to welcome a new day!  It’s time to step into it! It brings with it the promise of brightness and a comforting warmth that you want to simply bask in. As brilliant as it is bursting into the day, it can seem almost fickle with its presentation seeming to hide behind buildings or mountains. We have to know that even when it seems hidden, it is there! The sun is a gift from our Father who gave us the gift of His Son! Even when we feel like we don’t see God moving or feel Him near, He is never hidden from those who look for Him. He promises to make Himself known when we earnestly look for Him!  (If you look for me wholeheartedly, you will find me ~Jeremiah 29:13)

Then there are times that you have to look – even search for the proof that the sun rose because it’s dark and gloomy, maybe even wet with the vestiges of the deluge from the night before. There are left over puddles as you step into the day. But this is your day. Rather than be derailed by what you see or do not see, you can choose to hope beyond the rain. You can decide that you will focus on what you know to be true; that is that God is with you. What greets us does not determine how we experience it; our perspective does. Our perspective is shaped by what we anticipate. We anticipate based upon what our focus is. Ours is that our God is good and He is with us and more than enough for us. Scriptures declares ‘And God will generously provide all you need. Then you will always have everything you need and plenty left over to share with others’ (2 Corinthians 9:8). That gives us hope regardless of what may be before us. We can experience it with the confidence that just as an umbrella covers us in the rain, the Holy Spirit covers us with peace. We can meet the momentary discomfort of heavy downpours and strong winds that tries to envelop us with the power of our Savior’s love to shield and protect us. We hope on for a brighter day. Our expectation is that the winds will slow, the puddles will dry and we will once again walk on dry ground.

How we face the day matters. It matters whether we meet it head on and go into it with hope and expectation whether the sun is shining or hiding.  How we respond to each breaking day is a measure of what we trust in. We trust in the One who made the day because He know what each one holds. We hope in the truth that He will give us what we need. Will we give Him what He desires – our faith in His ability to help us handle it whether its blinding sunlight or torrential rain, our hope that He will work through whatever it is? Whether our day is beaming from the rays of sunshine that light our path or wet from the rains that have fallen, the same God is with us through them all. He will help us weather whatever comes our way (I lift up my eyes to the mountains where does my help come from? My help comes from the Lord, the Maker of heaven and earth ~Psalm 121:1-2).

As February erupts on the calendar it brings the reminder of hearts and flowers. The hearts are symbols of what grows in us, love that grows out of the relationship(s) we have. The flowers are symbols of what grows around us and they need both the sunshine and the rain. We also need both because they grow us – helping us experience the fullness that is our God. Embrace the dawning of each new day savoring the joy that comes from knowing our God is with us through sunshine and rain. Know that as He brings both for our good and His glory. Welcome them knowing we need both to grow in faith and trust and hope. Remember everything He created is good and He is mindful of His creation and that includes us! He gives us what we need for each new day, and that reminds us that we are thought of and loved. Our God gives us each new dawning reminding us that His thoughts of us are good and we are loved. Now that is a reason to hope!

Faith That Fights: Embracing the Strength of the Christian Life

The Christian life is a powerful battle of faith and hope, where we stand unshaken in the victory Christ has already won, confidently fighting the good fight with unwavering strength and trust in God’s promises.

The Christian life is not for the weak. One of the most misunderstood aspects of Christ and His followers is that we lack fight. But this couldn’t be further from the truth. Everything about our faith requires having the will to fight.

The Father fought for us by sending Christ to die for our sins. Jesus fought for us by offering His body as an offering for sin. The apostles fought against the religious and political leaders of their day by refusing to be intimidated from preaching the gospel of Jesus Christ. And many Christians throughout history have fought the good fight of faith, even at the expense of their own lives. So, yes, we take offense at the idea that Christianity is for weaklings.

The Wisdom and Power in Faith and Hope

It is the world that misconstrues physical and military activity as fighting because it doesn’t understand God's wisdom and power. As the apostle Paul declared to the churches in Corinth, “[T]he foolishness of God is wiser than men, and the weakness of God is stronger than men” (1 Corinthians 1:25).

Paul’s language of God's foolishness and weakness is hyperbolic sarcasm. He is driving home the point that humanity is way out of its league if it thinks it has the intelligence or strength to match up against the all-knowing, all-powerful, ever-present God.

This is the same God who loved and cared for us when we did not consider loving or serving Him. He was with us while we were dead in trespasses and sins. He was always watching over us, nudging us onto the path that He prepared for us before the foundation of the world because we had already been chosen and predestined for salvation in Christ.

Now, there are battles ahead of us, but we stand on the shoulders of the great men and women of the faith who remind us that the war has already been won. Jesus has already secured our victory because He has risen from the grave with all power in His hands. However, we must continue in the tradition of our exalted Savior and fellow saints by fighting the good fight and keeping the faith.

In the hymn “Am I a Soldier of the Cross?” eighteenth-century theologian Isaac Watts asked, “Must I be carried to the skies on flowery beds of ease, while others fought to win the prize and sailed through bloody seas?” The answer is a resounding no! We are called to a faith that fights. Yet, we don’t fight with sword or spear; we fight with faith and hope. Our faith is our trust in the revelation of God in the Person of Christ, and our hope is our confident expectation of our vindication by Christ on the day of His judgment.

We Will Continue To Be Unmovable and Unstoppable

It is in the final pages of his letter to the churches in Corinth that Paul brings us to the end of our faith and hope based on the victory we have in Jesus: “Therefore, my beloved brethren, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that your labor is not in vain in the Lord” (1 Corinthians 15:58). Paul’s encouragement to Christians in the early stages of burgeoning warfare—that would result in them being disowned by their families, ostracized from their communities, divested of their property, unjustly imprisoned, and martyred unmercifully—was to be steadfast and unmovable in the work of the Lord.

William Mare explains that the “present imperative [be steadfast] stresses constant Christian stability, as does [always abounding] also, [and should be translated]: ‘Continue to stand firm … always abound.’ The addition of the word [labor] to [work] … suggests that work for the Lord is to be hard work and that it involves hardship and suffering.”[1] His point is that the Christian life is a battle, but Christ has given us the ability to stand and excel despite our hardships and suffering. That’s a great place to give God praise!

So, I end where I started: the Christian life is not for the weak. The good news is that we are not weak! The Lord and His mighty power continuously strengthen us. There will be battles to fight and principalities and powers requiring us to have steadfast faith. But we will stand firm and excel in God’s work because Jesus has already given us the victory!

Dr. Isaac Hayes is an Assistant Pastor at the Apostolic Church of God in Chicago, Illinois, and author of Men After God’s Heart: 10 Principles of Brotherly Love. He also has a Doctor of Ministry degree from Trinity Evangelical Divinity School. Follow Dr. Hayes on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and YouTube at @RevIsaacHayes.

  [1] W. Harold Mare, “1 Corinthians,” in The Expositor’s Bible Commentary: Romans through Galatians, ed. Frank E. Gaebelein, vol. 10 (Grand Rapids, MI: Zondervan Publishing House, 1976), 292.

As we approach the holiday season, the spirit of togetherness is on full display—yet for many, it’s also a time when feelings of loneliness can creep in. Whether it’s your first holiday without a loved one, a recent transition out of a relationship, or the sting of a job loss, the weight of life’s facts can feel overwhelming. But here is the truth: God’s Word offers us a community of hope, love, and belonging—a place where you are not alone, no matter what the circumstances look like.

In this season, I want to encourage you to find your tribe. In Christ’s community, we are called to belong, to believe, and ultimately, to become everything God has called us to be. But finding your place in this community is crucial. If you have ever felt like your environment is fixated on the “facts” of life—like the heartbreak or loss—you know how hard it can be to see beyond them. But there is only one truth, and that is the truth of Jesus Christ!  God’s truth is eternal, and it is his truth that will set you free.

My father used to say to me, “You are the sum of the five people closest to you.” Those words have stuck with me throughout my life. Whomever you allow closest to you will influence your actions, your mindset, and ultimately, your life. If you are surrounded by people who only see the facts, it will be hard for you to see the truth. On the other hand, if you surround yourself with a tribe that speaks life, encourages you, and helps you see beyond the surface, your entire perspective will shift.

The key is to find a tribe that believes in you. The people you allow into your inner circle should challenge you to become the person God created you to be. They    will push you to grow, to thrive, and to see beyond your present circumstances.  My father also gave me this wisdom: “If you don’t like where you are, look around. If you want better, find five people on the level you want to be on and start spending time with them.” And once you make it to that level, find five more on the next level and expand your network.

This is what community is all about—constantly encouraging each other to become more like Christ and to grow into the fullness of what He has destined for us. Your tribe can dictate your perspective, and your perspective shapes your future. That is why it is so important to find your place in a thriving, Christ-centered environment where you can grow and belong.

If you are searching for that kind of tribe, we would love for you to join us at the YAM Collective. We are a community of young adults aged 18-35 who are committed to walking alongside one another in faith, truth, and love. We have three cohorts for you to connect with: The Connect (ages 18-21), The Crew (ages 22-26), and The Culture (ages 27-35). Each offers a unique space for you to grow, believe in your God-given potential, and become all He has called you to be.

The holidays may bring a wave of emotions, but you don’t have to face them alone. Whether you are navigating a personal loss, a transition, or simply looking for a place to belong, there is room for you in Christ’s community. This season, let’s focus on the truth—not just the facts. Surround yourself with people who will help you see beyond the hurt and remind you of the hope we have in Jesus. Go find your tribe, so you can belong, believe, and become!

Call to Action: If you are ready to find your tribe, we invite you to join the YAM Collective today. Together, we will navigate life’s challenges, celebrate victories, and grow deeper in our faith. Your place is waiting! You can join us for our next Kickback event on November 15th, where our theme is “Friendsgiving.” Bring a friend and enjoy a Thanksgiving-style meal with us or catch us every 3rd Fridays in 2025!

If you’re not in the Chicagoland area, we encourage you to find community at a local Bible-based church and connect to Christ’s beloved community in your hometown! If you’d like to create a satellite Belong Group of young adults at your job or in your community, and want to connect with us virtually, we would be happy to assist you with that as well!

Author Bio: Minister Gary Foster, Jr. is the Director of the Young Adult Ministries at the Apostolic Church of God in Chicago, IL.  Minister Foster is dedicated to inspiring this generation to live out their God-given potential.  Follow him on social media @GAFJUN. 

David’s inspiring story reminds us that with obedience, perseverance, and trust in God, we can overcome any challenge and transition swiftly from our darkest days to our highest peaks.

Life can change in an instant. It is why we should never lose hope, no matter how hopeless a situation may seem. For we serve a God who is all-powerful, all-knowing, and ever-present. He has the power to deliver us, the information to direct us, and the reach to defend us. What we need is the faith to depend upon Him when we can’t see a positive outcome.

Life is Filled with Swift Transition

Hymnist Jennie B. Wilson penned, “Time is filled with swift transition.” Her words seem almost prophetic when we consider the events that shook America’s political landscape from the end of June to the end of July.

First, there was the June 27 presidential debate between President Joe Biden and former President Donald Trump. The fallout from that debate led to calls from Democrat Party leaders for President Biden to step aside.

Then, there was the July 13 attempted assassination of former President Trump at a campaign rally in Butler, PA. Thankfully, he was not seriously injured, and, coming out of the Republican National Convention the following week, his reelection was beginning to look inevitable.

Finally, on July 21, President Biden announced that he was ending his reelection campaign and endorsing Vice President Kamala Harris to be the Democrat Party’s nominee. This all happened in less than four weeks.

David’s Journey from Tragedy to Triumph

David found himself in such a situation when, after having been rejected by the Philistine governing council from participating in their war against Israel, he returned to his home camp of Ziklag to find it burned to the ground, his family and those of his 600 fighters taken captive, and all their possessions plundered. One can only imagine what David and his men felt at that moment as they rummaged through the charred debris of their makeshift homes for any salvageable possessions and the bodies of their loved ones.

The situation soon escalated as David found himself the object of the projected heartache of his followers, who spoke of taking his life because they blamed him for their failure to protect their wives and children, let alone their property. But Scripture tells us that “David strengthened himself in the LORD his God” (1 Samuel 30:6).

David’s response to this most critical moment in his life cannot be understated. We know the outcome of the story because we have the record, but he had to live it without the knowledge of hindsight. This was the defining moment of David’s life—not the showdown with Goliath, nor his refusal to murder King Saul on two occasions, nor his desire to build God a temple—because it would lead to him becoming Israel’s king.

There are three lessons we can learn from David’s experience.

1. David Strengthened Himself in the Lord. Amidst the dirty looks, venomous speech, and uncertainty as to who committed this raid on his camp or which direction they may have gone, David made himself strong. He did this by seeking the Lord. We know this because the very next verse explains how David found his strength: he called for the priest to bring him the ephod by which he could ask the Lord for His divine direction (v. 7). The ephod was worn by the priest to inquire of God for what the nation should do.

David, who had failed to seek the Lord’s guidance regarding his interactions with the Philistines, recognized the previous error of his ways and asked the Lord two questions: “Shall I pursue this band? Shall I overtake them?” (v. 8). The Lord’s answer was “Yes” to both questions. David was to go after them, and he would find them. With this assurance from the Lord, David had the encouragement he needed to regain his strength.

We, too, sometimes find ourselves in unthinkable situations. We can allow the regrets from poor decisions to swallow us into a pit of deep despair, or we can seek the Lord to help us regain our strength. God is our Heavenly Father who forever lives to love on His children. We get it wrong from time to time, but He never stops loving us. He desires for us to recognize the error of our ways and to pursue Him with a broken heart and repentant spirit, knowing that even when we are unfaithful, He remains faithful. So, regain your strength by bringing God back into your decision-making.

2. David Obeyed the Lord. David didn’t stop after he inquired of the Lord as to what he should do; he followed the Lord’s instructions by pursuing the band of raiders. It was a matter of faith—and faith is trust. He was given the assurance that he needed from the Lord, but he had to demonstrate that he trusted Him; something he didn’t do when he hid amongst the Philistines.

So off David and his men went, and, only as God can do, they discovered an Egyptian who was left behind by the raiders. He supplied David with all the information he needed to launch a surprise attack and recover the people and property that was stolen, plus some. This only happened because David took God at His word and went after a band of raiders whom he did not know nor where they had gone.

We may not have an ephod like David to receive definitive “Yes” or “No” answers to our questions, but we do have the Holy Spirit. Jesus said that the Spirit will lead and guide us into all truth—certainly the truth about who Jesus is as well as any other truth that we need to know in life (John 16:13). Thus, we can ask God for direction and guidance during the Ziklag experiences in our life to help us make the right decisions.

However, it becomes incumbent upon us to follow the instruction of the Spirit because He knows what the outcome will be. It’s a matter of trust. Do we trust God to pursue the unknown, believing that the path He has sent us down will unfold His all-knowingness, all-powerfulness, and ever-presentness? If we do, then, like David, we will experience the benefits of obeying God.

3. David’s Faith and Obedience Resulted in Him Becoming King of Judah. David’s story didn’t end with Ziklag; it transitioned with Ziklag. What we discover in 1 Samuel 31 is that Saul and his three sons were killed during Israel’s battle against the Philistines. And in 2 Samuel chapters 1 and 2, David received Saul’s crown and was made king of Judah. If David didn’t strengthen himself during the most pressing crisis of his life, and if he didn’t obey the Lord’s instruction, he would not have become king—at least not at that moment.

First, his men were threatening to kill him. Second, even if they didn’t, they would have lost all confidence in his leadership, so he would not have had an army to lead. Finally, he would not have confiscated the additional spoils the Amalekites had gained from other raids, which he shared with the leaders of Judah—the first tribe to make him its king. Thus, the David we have come to love and celebrate today proved himself during his low point and not his high point by trusting in the Lord. As such, he learned that God is a rewarder of them that diligently seek Him (Heb. 11:6).

Very few, if any, of us will become a king like David, but God has some things in store for us that are going to require that we strengthen ourselves in and be obedient to the Lord during our low points. I have come to learn that we more emphatically experience God during our lows than we do our highs. The fact is, our highs are the result of our lows. For it is while we are in our darkest days that God reveals Himself to us in ways we would have never known had we not gone through what we did. So, we come to better appreciate that testimonies do not come without tests and praise does not come without pain. But thanks be to God who always causes us to triumph by Christ Jesus (2 Cor. 2:14).

Keep Fighting until You Win

David’s story teaches us that life can transition quickly. In a matter of weeks, he went from losing everything and nearly his life to becoming king. Had he given up at Ziklag, he would have never gained Judah. Let this be an important lesson in our life: never give up. As Maurette Brown Clark says, “It ain’t over until God says it’s over. Keep fighting until your victory is won.”

Dr. Isaac Hayes is an Assistant Pastor at the Apostolic Church of God in Chicago, Illinois, and author of Men After God’s Heart: 10 Principles of Brotherly Love. He also has a Doctor of Ministry degree from Trinity Evangelical Divinity School. Follow Dr. Hayes on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and YouTube at @RevIsaacHayes.

Well, once again that time is almost upon us.  The passage of each beautiful sun-filled summer day with all of the carefree leisurely activities we can cram into them inevitably brings us painstakingly closer to another school year.  For many, adults and children alike, the phrase, “back to school” is enough to send many spiraling down the black hole of utter despair, while some (viewed as a strange bunch), actually look forward to another burgeoning academic year, and all of the excitement (whether good or bad) it will bring.  Obviously, some of these claims are made in jest.  Nevertheless, some do view school simply as a necessary evil, while others view school as the greatest societal instrument by which one can secure future financial and social prosperity and true inner fulfillment.   As an educator myself, I obviously lean toward the latter.  However, as a disciple of the Lord Jesus Christ I must attest that one shining principle is often obfuscated when education is discussed, especially for our young people starting college, or are returning to college.  

THE MAIN THING
First of all, I think we can all agree that an education is a critical component of anyone’s plan and strategy for any measure of sustained, future success.  And I do understand that “success” is a relative term but for the purposes of this brief treatise, “success” will simply refer to the ability to be self-sufficient and fulfilled as one makes an impact in the lives of others, in a decent and honorable vocation.  Of all of the subjects, concepts, and skills taught and learned across the myriads of educational institutions from coast to coast, each set of educational standards are intended to be built on previous standards to the effect that students are constantly becoming more and more rounded, increasingly refined, and intellectually mature.  Whether the Kindergartener or First Grader is learning their “ABCs”, or that high school Senior is grappling with AP Calculus, in all cases, the goal is mastery so that every respective student can apply their knowledge meaningfully over the course of their lives in whatever vocation they aspire to.

Kudos to all of the students staying on the grind for academic excellence; in a society wherein negativity drives the news cycle, you all deserve extensive time in copious amounts of limelight.  It takes discipline to stay focused; self-control is essential for achieving any type of goal, especially in academia.   Nevertheless, I do have an exhortation that on the surface may appear contradictory: Please don’t let school get in the way of your education.

Unfortunately, school is conflated with education, and as this brief discourse races toward a hopefully edifying conclusion, allow me to provide some clarification for this kindly advice.  “School” can be thought of as the systematic matriculation through educational institutions, but “education” could be thought of as true, authentic learning and this “education” is best indulged in simply by living.  For the believing student (in Christ), his or her best education will always come through their simple walk with the Lord.  No number of degrees, no amount of schooling can ever be allowed to eclipse the superior learning one does in the daily Christian Walk, especially in our heart-wrenching failures when the firm yet loving hand of the Savior corrects us, restores us, and then encourages us to forge forward with Him as we live life.  

“Truly, the best lessons to be learned can’t be learned in anyone’s classroom.”
   
Princeton.  Harvard.  Howard.  Morehouse.  As renown as these institutions are for their academic rigor and distinction, their respective curricula pale in comparison to the treasures of the Word of God.  Degrees earned from these and countless other great universities cannot compare to the priceless, invigorating approval of the Great Teacher, the Master Himself: the Lord Jesus Christ.   Ultimately, students, I beseech you to never allow schooling to get in the way of your learning.  I beg you to not sacrifice the wisdom and knowledge of Christ on the altar of financial prosperity and prestige.
  
College students, your opportunities of greatest growth will be presented to you embedded within your day-to-day decision-making tests as you manage your time and relationships; and I think every college-educated person will likely agree that the hardest part of college is time management, and equally balancing social activities with academic goals.  This is especially difficult because college usually takes the student away from parental supervision and the structure of home life.  All the more reason to be dedicated to your education from your walk with Christ.  

For all my high school students (including three of my own), don’t let go of the godly principles that have seen you through to this unique time in your lives.  I urge you to remain dedicated to learning more and more of the Lord in this unique time especially as most of you are seeking to cement your own self-image apart from others’ perceived image of you.

To all the Elementary and Middle School students, grow more and more into being salt and light in your classrooms, on your playgrounds, at the plays and pep rallies.  Scripture says that unless one follows Christ like a little child, they cannot enter the Kingdom of Heaven.  You are right where you need to be, only continuously keep learning of Christ, at Children’s Church, Sunday School, and Young Brothers and Young Sisters for Christ.

In every case, the lessons learned by walking with the Master Teacher cannot be neglected.  They must be zealously pursued, as these lessons impart true wisdom; the wisdom that can see us through not just levels of school but through the hills and valleys of the ultimate learning institution: Life.  Have a triumphant school year in Jesus’s Name.

Independence Day. This nationwide celebration, filled with fireworks, fanfare, friends, and family, commemorates the Declaration of Independence, which marked America’s freedom from British rule. Instead of being bound to the mother country, the colonies gained their own identity and agency, allowing them to make decisions for themselves—a process akin to our journey into adulthood.

While most of us never formally signed a Declaration of Independence, there were pivotal milestones that helped us assert our independence from our parents’ influence. Whether it was moving into our own apartment, taking on bills, starting families, or navigating personal responsibilities like securing our own insurance at 26, these moments marked the transition from childhood to adulthood.

This newfound independence can be invigorating, something many of us eagerly anticipated. How often do we recall silently muttering, “I can’t wait to leave this house” after being asked to clean up? Or eagerly counting down the days until we turned 16, then 18, and finally 21, when we felt truly grown? However, the weight of responsibility that accompanies independence and newfound freedom is often underestimated. Challenges like affordable housing, rising grocery costs, and stagnant wages can make us feel that “adulting is ghetto”. However, we are not alone.

As believers, we find solace in knowing that God is with us (Isaiah 41:10), regardless of our age. In moments of stress, we can turn to Jesus Christ for help (Isaiah 41:13). He promises to never leave us nor forsake us (Hebrews 13:5), and despite the world’s challenges, we find refuge in Him (Psalm 46:1). Independence can sometimes feel isolating, especially when societal expectations weigh heavily on us. However, we are exactly where God planned for us to be (Psalm 139:16), and when we trust in Him wholeheartedly, He guides our paths (Proverbs 3:5-6).
That is true freedom.
Happy Independence Day!

Ah, Mother's Day, the one day a year where everyone collectively honors the incredible women who've shaped our lives. We rush to buy flowers, chocolates, and all sorts of gifts, treating her to brunches or even a spa day. It's lovely, sure, but have we ever stopped to think that maybe, just maybe, this celebration should extend beyond a single day?

We inadvertently feed into the commercial frenzy, lining the pockets of florists, restaurants, hotels, and airlines—all in the name of that one special day. But here's the kicker: Mothers? They are Mothers every single day. They are the silent superheroes who tirelessly care for their families without pause.

Now, I'm not suggesting we break the bank showering her with gifts 24/7. No, the true essence lies in showering her with love and respect daily. It's about recognizing and cherishing all the little things she does, day in and day out, without fail.

A Mother's love is like a rock in the stormy sea of life—steadfast, unwavering, and unconditional. Whether you're five or fifty, she's there for you, cheering you on, wiping away your tears, and believing in you when no one else does.

So, this Mother's Day, let's not just confine our appreciation to a mere 24 hours. Let's make every day Mother's Day—a constant celebration of the remarkable women who've given us everything without expecting anything in return.


Happy Mother's Day
Love,
First Lady
Evangelist Mary Brazier

“Remembering the Road to Resurrection”

Have you ever considered Christ’s journey to Calvary? We know that the Resurrection of Jesus Christ is the foundation of the Church and our Christian faith. Without Christ’s resurrection from the dead, His work on the cross would have been incomplete, and His purpose unfulfilled. His followers would have returned to their occupations and the church
would have never been established. But because Christ did rise from the dead, His redemptive and salvific work was complete and all who believe on Him, can have eternal life. In this blog, I want to call your attention to the glorious road to Christ’s resurrection, for I believe it will strengthen your faith and your resolve to walk in God’s will.

In Matthew 21, we find Jesus entering into Jerusalem, riding on a donkey. This famous scene of Jesus’ Triumphal Entry, where people spread their garments and branches from palm trees down on the road was the genesis of Jesus’s journey to Calvary. What amazes me is how swiftly corporate opinions changed regarding Jesus in just one-week’s time. On
Sunday the people were crying out, “Hosanna to the Son of David! Blessed is He who comes in the name of the Lord!” (Matthew 21:8-9) But by Friday, they were crying out, “Crucify Him, and give us Barabbas!” (Matthew 27:20-22)

Isn’t it amazing how one minute you can be on cloud nine, enjoying the admiration of others and the next minute you’re being obstructed with hostile opposition all around you? Often times, life is filled with swift transitions, yet on this road to resurrection, Christ shows us how He endured the rapid and unjust changes of the last days of His life, and was still
victorious and able to fulfill God’s purpose. As we remember Christ’s journey, I want to uncover three pivotal markers along His way.

The first marker was when Jesus was anointed (Matthew 26:6-13). This encounter was critical, because Jesus would be unlawfully executed as a criminal, which would not afford Him the privilege of a proper burial ceremony where His body could be anointed prior to His burial. The second marker was when Jesus was betrayed (Matthew 26:14-20). In an
intimate and personal gathering with His disciples, Jesus reveals that one of them would betray Him. This shows us that sometimes betrayal comes with intimate relationships, for one cannot betray you if they are not close to you. Judas’s betrayal was necessary for Jesus to fulfill His purpose. Sometimes, your disappointments will lead you to your destiny
and your pain will push to your purpose.

The third marker is buried in Matthew 26:36-39, when Jesus prayed in the Garden of Gethsemane. Jesus said, “O My Father, if it be possible, let this cup pass from me: nevertheless not as I will, but as thou wilt.” What caused Jesus such anguish and distress was His imminent task of taking on the sins of all mankind, which He knew would cause total separation from God. Jesus, Who was God, had to be disconnected from God, so that WE would have a way back to God! So the 3 markers on this road to resurrection were Jesus being anointed, Jesus being betrayed, and Jesus being separated from God.

After Jesus finish praying, He was arrested, illegally tried and convicted to death. He was brutally beaten, stripped of His clothes, crowned with thorns, and forced to carry His cross to Calvary. Just 4 days prior, the crowd was celebrating Him being carried down the road, now they were taunting Him as He carried His cross down the road to THEIR salvation. His hands and His feet were nailed to the cross, He was crucified, and the Bible says that Jesus yielded up His own spirit and gave up His own life. (Matthew 27:45-50)

He was buried in another man’s tomb…but three days later, early Sunday morning Jesus rose from the dead! And it is through His resurrection, that we have the right to eternal life. It is through His resurrection, we have been reconciled back to God. It is through His resurrection, we have full and complete access to the Father. It is through His
resurrection, we have been saved from the penalty of sin. And the beauty of the resurrection is Christ did it just for you.

This is why we celebrate and remember the resurrection, because when we think about what Jesus did for us, our souls should rejoice and our desire should be to live according to His will. So as you remember this road to resurrection, I
encourage you to live your life knowing that you have a relationship with God the Father, Who loved you so, that He sent His Son to die, so that you might have eternal life.

Growing in the Right Direction  
 
God wants us to make a difference wherever we are and bring light -- lighting things up so those around us get to see Him.  When we do that, we are growing in the right direction.

Some time ago, I set out with a group of dear friends, brothers, and sisters whom I loved. We were bound for the joy of encouraging one another while helping others in a beautiful destination. Along the way, disruptions came and what started with such elation turned into frustration. In frustration, feelings of disappointment began to develop within me with rapid-fire speed.  I was thinking about decisions that weren’t just related to the immediate circumstance but about ‘my next’ on the basis on ‘my now’.  In the middle of the ocean, I thought I knew the direction we were going and what should be done once we got there. I was surveying the land from the ocean of feelings around me and thought I knew exactly where we were headed. The problem… from the ocean all we can really see is the ocean. Everything else is far off in the distance, unless we have the right vantage point. I was moving headlong in the wrong direction – spinning thoughts into deeds that were yet to be done.

I can be pretty persistent about what I’m doing and where I’m going. I’ve either got an idea or a full on plan that I can’t be easily moved from.  Some would describe a personality like that as tenacious, others as stubborn.  Either way, what we focus on or give our attention to generally says a lot about us.  I was giving myself to the frustration that had risen and rather than rein it in, it was stoked by my belief that I was right. The problem was I was standing on a feeling instead of truth (Proverbs 3:5-6). I was focused on being right more than being righteous (Galatians 5:22-25). The view from the ocean doesn’t always allow us to fully grasp the safety on the shore. Our feelings and circumstances are much like that.  When we focus on them, we aren’t finding security in the truth of God’s Word and how it will direct us. They are real and they challenge us but they can’t guide us. We have to master them instead of them mastering us to see beyond them.  It takes stopping and reflecting upon what is going on in me and around me and letting the Holy Spirit lead me into truth before moving on.  Are we forging ahead even when we need to change direction or will we yield when faced with the understanding that we’re off course?  The one you’re prone to is an indicator of whether or not you are growing in the right direction.

Growing in the right direction is a matter of choice. It’s a matter of deciding what is going to lead you, inform you and guide your decisions. Will it be the latest TikTok fad or the hottest Instagram post?  No hate or shade to technology but it can’t save.  It can help but it can also hurt if it causes us to focus too much on what’s others are doing or even ourselves and not enough of what God is doing. Will it be the culture or the cause of Christ? Will you grow in the light of His Word, agreeing with Him about your life or will it be yours to do as you please?  Unlike the world around us, we can choose to grow in the right direction.  We can choose wisdom that's greater than we are.  We can choose to look to God's Word not only for inspiration but direction.  We are growing in the right direction when we seek to know Him, what He wants for our lives, and desire to make Him known to others (Isaiah 26:8).

As we look to the beginning of spring with flowers starting to bloom, ask yourself ‘what is blooming in me’? Are there seeds of new growth in your life that signal something is developing? If you sense it or see it, nurture it so that the fruit that is growing matures and blesses others.  Admittedly, there’s work to be done in turning from our own ways towards God’s.  I still catch myself being carried away with feelings and have to take that to God.  I’m grateful to say I’m carried away a lot less now because growing in the right direction has been a pursuit for a long time.  I think of the avenues that present the greatest opportunity for my growth. It always involves growing in faith, in community and things that will bring me closer to God.

Sometimes we’re in situations when the best thing we can do is be quiet. God may be speaking and we’re too busy to hear it.  He was speaking through the disappointment I felt but I had to listen. There was a need beyond my own that He wanted me to acknowledge and be available for it. When that reality hit me, I realized that was the purpose all along. We grow by sharing our lives with others. When we share our faith, experiences and testimony of what God has done it reminds us and encourages them.  We grow by caring about others and what they are going through.  When we bear the burdens of others, they encounter the love of God and we get to live beyond ourselves.  We grow by daring to be what Christ has called us to be!  When we choose to follow God’s way over the blaring culture, we serve as evidence of His work in the world and the impact He wants us to have (Matthew 5:13-14).

As we step into the new year, let's break free from the cycle of mundane resolutions and dive into the extraordinary power of God.

God created a system of cycles. Every 360 days in the Hebrew calendar or 365 days in the Gentile calendar is the cycle of a complete year. At the end of each year, we are tasked with preparing for the upcoming year. We set goals, list our prayers, and construct some formulation of a strategy for what we would like to see happen. Yet, it can sometimes be mundane; it is the Preacher’s chasing after the wind (Eccles. 1:14).

Power Pass Your Past
We look to the future through the fog of the fatigue of the past. It’s not always easy to pursue more when you have persevered to get to where you are today. But there is a fire that burns on the inside of us that challenges—better yet, compels—us to reach higher and dig deeper than we ever have before (Phil. 3:13-14).

It is this internal fire that beckons us to burn even brighter and build even better until we exceed even our own expectations. That fire is the Spirit of God who fuels our lives by leading us into the divine plan that God has predestined for us. It is almost as if destiny has a magnet that pulls us into our future, whether we are willing or not. Thus, we do more than go through the motions; we embrace the pull, and we power our way to the next level in God.

2024 is the year that we will power our way into our purpose. It is the year that we will be what we were designed to become. It is the year that we will live in the fullness of our promised land. And it is the year that we will enjoy the fruits of previous year’s labor.

Three Prerequisites to Powering Up
The apostle Paul invites us to reflect on the providence of God’s predestination and the power of His omnipotence as it relates to God’s will and our walk. In jubilant praise, he exclaims: “Now all glory to God, who is able, through his mighty power at work within us, to accomplish infinitely more than we might ask or think” (Eph. 3:20, NLT).

There are three quick but powerful nuggets in this prolific doxology (praise to God) that are inspirational for our 2024 power up.

1. Know that God is able. Reflecting upon the predetermined plan of God in Jesus Christ, Paul is compelled to give God praise. He praises God for His magnanimous power, His ability to make things happen—more importantly, His ability to bring about the things He wants to happen in our lives.

In 2024, we don’t have to worry about how God is going to carry out His plans for us; we just need to know that He has the power to bring them to pass. This means that whatever will be done, He will be the One to do it because He is more than able to make it happen.

2. Recognize that God’s power is working in us. God’s power is made available to us, for us. He doesn’t deify us (make us little gods), but He does put His power into operation on our behalf.[1] Thus, God anoints and activates us in such a way that we are able to achieve feats that are beyond our power but within His unlimited supply. We become His conduits through which His inherent power becomes apparent in and through us.

In 2024, we are going to experience the supernatural power of God at an unprecedented level. What we saw in 2023 was just the teaser for the manifestation of the Lord’s power in these last and evil days. This means that we must be prepared to tap into His operations on the earth by purposing in our hearts to stay plugged in to His Spirit.

3. Believe that God can accomplish so much more. God’s unlimited power exceeds our wildest requests or dreams. There is nothing we can ask or envision that God cannot infinitely surpass. He is so powerful that we are only limited by our capacity to become as ridiculous in our petitions and imaginations as we can. Yet, despite our limitations, He is not restricted to our constraints, so He accomplishes more than we can even concoct.

In 2024, we want to be as outlandish in our expectations as we can. God is waiting for us to make a demand on His power. This means that we must raise the ridiculousness of our ask and push beyond the parameters of our past. We must get God’s attention by exploring the new frontier of impossible convictions.

So Much More in 2024
In December, I started teasing the slogan of “God has so much more in 2024” just for fun. But recognizing how He led me to Ephesians 3:20, I am more confident than ever that 2024 is going to be a year of greater. So, buckle up for the greatest year of your life and power up for a year of insanity that not even Walt Disney could have envisioned.

Rev. Isaac Hayes is an Assistant Pastor at the Apostolic Church of God in Chicago, Illinois, and author of Men After God’s Heart: 10 Principles of Brotherly Love. He is also a doctoral student at Trinity Evangelical Divinity School. Follow Rev. Hayes on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram at @RevIsaacHayes.
  [1] William Arndt et al., A Greek-English Lexicon of the New Testament and Other Early Christian Literature (Chicago: University of Chicago Press, 2000), 335.

Christmas is the celebration and commemoration of the incarnation of Christ.

“Merry Christmas!” is the common greeting this time of year. Cash registers are ringing, websites are bustling, everybody is spending money and buying gifts with no consideration for why they are doing so. Sure, Christmas has been commercialized; we are a capitalistic society after all. But there seems to be an ethos in the air this time of year that is different than any other. It is the one time, that I can think of, where people are looking to give more than they are looking to receive. This is not by accident.

I have written previously about whether Christmas is a holiday or holy day, so I won’t debate that here, but it is important to note that there could be no Christmas without Christ. Jesus truly is the reason for the season. Now, there are those who seek to strike Him from the record by substituting “Happy Holidays!” or “Merry X-mas!”—which only accentuates the significance of the birth of Christ.

The Gift of Jesus

Jesus is God’s gift to humanity. He came wrapped in human flesh and swaddling clothes, but beneath His wrappings exist the eternal Son of God. Theologically, we refer to this event as the Incarnation. It describes “the act whereby the eternal Son of God took to Himself an additional nature, humanity, through the virgin birth.”[1] That is, the Son of God who eternally existed, otherwise He could not be God, chose to also become human so that He might deliver humanity from the penalty of sin, which is death – spiritual and physical (Rom. 8:3–4).

There was only one problem: because of Adam’s disobedience, every person born into this world inherits a sin nature, making it impossible to meet God’s moral and ethical requirements. Thus, the Son of God needed a human body minus the sin nature that comes with being human. The Father’s plan was that the Holy Spirit would supernaturally impregnate a virgin by the name of Mary, thereby bypassing the human seed that would typically come from the biological father and allow for the Son of God to have a human soul and body without taking on humanity’s sin nature (Luke 1:34–35).

Consequently, Joseph, the husband of Mary, is Jesus’s stepfather and not his biological father; for Joseph did not have intercourse with Mary until after Jesus’s birth (Matt. 1:25). Thus, God remains Jesus’s spiritual Father and Mary His biological mother—the first recorded case of in vitro fertilization, not by medical science but by a miracle of the Spirit.
Christ and Christmas

On the night of Jesus’s birth, an angel appeared to a group of shepherds and shared with them the wonderful news about the greatest gift that humanity would every receive. Luke records this event in Luke 2:10–11 NASB: “But the angel said to them, ‘Do not be afraid; for behold, I bring you good news of great joy which will be for all the people; for today in the city of David there has been born for you a Savior, who is Christ the Lord.’”

There are three important principles that this Scripture teaches us about Christmas.

1. Christmas is good news. This time of year elicits any number of negative responses—fear, frustration, denial, depression, anger—but the truth is, the birth of Christ is “good news” that should provoke “great joy.” Today, our televisions, newspapers, and electronic devices are filled with bad news—war, car jackings, robberies, homicides, death, and destruction. If there is anything we could use more of, it is good news. That is exactly what this season brings to us.

During the time of Jesus’s birth, good news included the proclamation of empire-wide celebrations of the Roman emperor, especially his birthday.[2] Though, Jesus was born over 2,000 years ago, His birth offers more joy than anyone or anything in this world could ever provide. To borrow from a similar refrain, it’s good news because it’s God’s news! The Heavenly Tribune reminds us each December, before the close of a possibly difficult year, that there is still something for everyone to be joyous about: a Savior was born.

2. Christmas is for everyone. The birth of Christ is not just good news because of the event; it is also good news because His birth is for every human. Jesus is the only gift in human history that can be given to everybody (John 3:16). A few of us can relate to not having received a Christmas gift from someone, but Jesus is the Father’s gift to each and every one of us. No one is excluded or left out. No one has to leave feeling less than anyone else, because we can all enjoy Jesus. It’s like Oprah’s Favorite Things: you get a gift, he gets a gift, she gets a gift, they get a gift; we all get Jesus!

During Christmas, we are given the opportunity to celebrate and worship Jesus for His selfless and saving act of becoming human (Matt. 2:11). For the “mas” in Christmas refers to the act of commemorating and celebrating Jesus’s birth. So, when we give gifts to others, we are all commemorating God’s gift to us in the Person of Jesus Christ.[3]  
  
3. Christmas is about Christ. There can be no Christmas without Christ because He is the Father’s gift of salvation to humanity. He was born to be our Savior. Because of Adam’s disobedience, humanity was being held hostage by our natural inclination to violate God’s moral and ethical code and by our inevitable physical death (Rom. 5:12–14). Jesus’s birth, His incarnation, was God’s response to rescue us from our captivity. Thus, the only Person who had the moral purity and spiritual power to save us became human to rescue us from the power of sin and death (Gal. 4:4–5). This is why Jesus is called the Christ. “It signifies his office as anointed Savior and alludes to his spiritual qualifications for the task of saving his people.”[4]

Only Jesus could meet the qualifications necessary to save us—holy and all-powerful, yet fully human. He is the God-man who serves as the chosen Mediator between God and mankind (1 Tim. 2:5–6). Therefore, Christ cannot be removed from Christmas, because it is all about Him.

A Very Special Christmas

This Christmas will be a very special Christmas, not because of the mistletoes, trimmed trees, or blazing firesides; but because of the Person and purpose that make it special. Jesus, our Savior, was born into this world to offer us the incomparable gift of eternal life—the benefits of which include spending eternity with Him in the new heaven and new earth to come (Rev. 21:1–4). Now, if that isn’t special, I don’t know what is.


Rev. Isaac Hayes is an Assistant Pastor at the Apostolic Church of God in Chicago, Illinois, and author of Men After God’s Heart: 10 Principles of Brotherly Love. He is also a doctoral student at Trinity Evangelical Divinity School. Follow Rev. Hayes on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram at @RevIsaacHayes.
  [1] Paul P. Enns, The Moody Handbook of Theology (Chicago, IL: Moody Press, 1989), 222.
[2] Craig S. Keener, The IVP Bible Background Commentary: New Testament (Downers Grove, IL: InterVarsity Press, 1993), Lk 2:10–12.
[3] Robert Green, “Mass: Christian Religious Service,” Britannica, last modified October 2, 2023, https://www.britannica.com/topic/mass-Christian-religious-service.
   [4] Walter A. Elwell and Barry J. Beitzel, “Christ,” Baker Encyclopedia of the Bible (Grand Rapids, MI: Baker Book House, 1988), 431.

The children of God represent a new humanity that rightly reflects the character and teachings of Christ.

We have lost our humanity; that is the state of our world. Since the sin of Adam in the garden of Eden, creation has suffered the effects of sin. Our wickedness had become so great that God decided to start over with Noah and his family (Gen. 6:5-8). But, once again, we find ourselves living in the days of Noah: people are cruel, murderous, heartless, perverse, self-serving, and ignoble.

The Paradox of Progress

Jean-Baptiste Alphonse Karr, wrote, "The more things change, the more they stay the same." The Enlightenment was supposed to usher in a period of progress that would solve the world’s problems and create a utopian society. Even the church rode on the train of Romanticism, believing it could usher in the Millennium without its King coming first—post-millennialism. Yet, there were two world wars that led the church to the realization that there can be no paradise on earth without the Creator of the earth.

Thus, human progress became associated with the failures of capitalism, rationalism, empiricism, and every other ism. The response to, or evolution from, the modern period was post-modernism. While it would be against the tenets of post-modernism to define post-modernism, the gist of its ethos is the rejection of the principles of the Enlightenment and the recalibration of truth to be relative and contextual.

Today, there is no such thing as absolute truth—if you disagree with someone else’s truth, then you are intolerant, and whatever rights you think you have cannot infringe upon the rights of others. We have become a society of arrows with no target, edifices with no foundation, and beings with no God.

Three “Rights” of Responsibility

This is the world in which Micah found himself when God called him to prophesy to the nations of Judah and Israel. There was political corruption, spiritual hypocrisy, economic exploitation, and unthinkable violence.
God’s response to a society that had lost its way was to remind the people what their responsibilities were: “He has told you, O man, what is good; and what does the LORD require of you but to do justice, to love kindness, and to walk humbly with your God?” (Micah 6:8 NASB).

Micah provides us with three categories of human responsibility to God and each other.

1. We must do what is right. Justice was never intended to be just-us. In our postmodern world, justice can mean different things to different people, but a biblical understanding of justice is the proper administration of our institutional power.[1] God established institutions to be an instrument for good in society (Rom. 13:1-4). They are to be a restraining force against evil and a corrective force against wickedness.

However, the oppression of the poor and powerless is not justice; it is injustice. But God is calling for those who administer power to do what is right by hiring the best candidate for the job, helping perspective homebuyers live wherever they choose, providing loans to qualified business applicants, and adjudicating legal cases fairly.
     
2. We must love people right. People may say they love you, but everyone’s love does not look the same. This is why we look to God as the standard for what we should do and how we should do it. He told the children of Judah that He loved them “with an everlasting love” (Jer. 31:3). God’s love is expressed through His loyalty and compassion for those who are “in a pitiful state.”[2] He descends from His place of power to help those who are powerless.

The Lord expects the same thing from us. When we are able to help someone who is suffering, we are to respond compassionately by helping them in that moment. He instructed the children of Israel to “love your neighbor as yourself” (Lev. 19:18) because they were to see themselves in their neighbor. We love our neighbors right by advocating for those who are marginalized, assisting those who are in need, praying for those who are hurting, and protecting those who are vulnerable.  

3. We must live for God right.  The word “walk” in Scripture is sometimes used as a metaphor for our way of living. We know the road we are to walk based upon the Scriptures God has given us. In them, He instructs us what to do and what not to do. They provide us with a pathway for living a blessed and prosperous life in this world. Hence, Micah’s prescription is a call to humility.

Humility is doing what God requires, God’s way. Thomas McComiskey says, it “means to live in conscious fellowship with God, exercising a spirit of humility before him.”[3] Some commentators view Micah’s final statement as the summation and culmination of doing right and loving right.[4] This means that we live right for God by maintaining fellowship with Him and exercising righteousness for Him—using our influence for the good of humanity and caring for those who cannot or will not care for themselves.

Spiritual Enlightenment
 
Society may have lost its humanity, but we are Spirit-filled humans who have been tasked with being the salt and the light of the earth (Matt. 5:13-16). We are to reflect the character of Christ by living the moral and ethical teachings of Scripture; and we are to shine the light of Christ’s holiness by doing good deeds that bring glory to God. When we do the right thing, we serve as a preserving force of God’s goodness in the earth; and we shine a light on the evils of humanity in the earth.


Rev. Isaac Hayes is an Assistant Pastor at the Apostolic Church of God in Chicago, Illinois, and author of Men After God’s Heart: 10 Principles of Brotherly Love. He is also a doctoral student at Trinity Evangelical Divinity School. Follow Rev. Hayes on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram at @RevIsaacHayes.

  [1] Robert D. Culver, “2443 שָׁפַט,” ed. R. Laird Harris, Gleason L. Archer Jr., and Bruce K. Waltke, Theological Wordbook of the Old Testament (Chicago: Moody Press, 1999), 949.
[2] R. Laird Harris, “698 חסד,” ed. R. Laird Harris, Gleason L. Archer Jr., and Bruce K. Waltke, Theological Wordbook of the Old Testament (Chicago: Moody Press, 1999), 307.
[3] Thomas E. McComiskey, “Micah,” in The Expositor’s Bible Commentary: Daniel and the Minor Prophets, ed. Frank E. Gaebelein, vol. 7 (Grand Rapids, MI: Zondervan Publishing House, 1986), 436.
[4] Willem VanGemeren, ed., New International Dictionary of Old Testament Theology & Exegesis (Grand Rapids, MI: Zondervan Publishing House, 1997), 822.

ISMS are a part of the world in which we live. They make up the fabric of our culture that colors some in the lines and drives others out. They are derogatory in their impact and divisive in their construct. They serve to divide and conquer rather than unify and empower. ISMS are the works of the flesh sown in the ground of pride and selfish ambition. They have crept into every area of our society and have even been recognized as a growing and trending issue in our every changing culture, which establishes “new norms” faster than the speed of light. They haven’t just infiltrated our culture; they have permeated it.

In 2015, the noted reference publisher, Merriam-Webster named their “Word of the Year” as “ISMS”.  Making the point that ISMS are alive and well, shaping today’s culture. According to Merriam-Webster an ISM is a belief, attitude, style, etc., that is referred to by a word that ends in the suffix –ism. It further states it is a distinctive doctrine, cause, or theory or an oppressive and especially discriminatory attitude or belief.

The Bible speaks concerning the characteristics of the last days, in 2 Tim. 3:1-2(KJV), “This know also, that in the last days perilous times shall come. For men shall be lovers of their own selves, covetous, boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy.”
There are seven “ISMS”, of the hundreds that could be listed, that dominate the cultural landscape of the 21st Century, and gives form and function (which is manifest as dysfunction) to the value system and the belief structure of this generation, known as meta-modernity.

NARCISSISM/INDIVIDUALISM - To be self-centered, self-promoting, self-serving.
The Answer: Serving Christ, Community, Civic responsibility
SECULARISM – To subscribe to the standard of success and achievement created by the culture, instead of bringing transformation to the culture.
The Answer:  Authentic Spiritual Formation and Identity in Christ
RACISM (systemic and structured) - To place Nationalistic allegiance above the value of all humankind, regardless of race, creed or color.
The Answer: Genuine Love, Concern, and Compassion for All
HEDONISM - The love and lust for pleasure and the preoccupation with selfish indulgences.
The Answer: Personal discipline and control of “appetite” and proclivities
CYNICISM - a lack of institutional and personal trust, which is motivated by self-interest.
The Answer: Total trust and complete dependence on God, as well as the ability to see the potential and possibility in others
MATERIALISM - The propensity to consider material possessions and physical comfort of greater importance than spiritual values.
The Answer: Attitude of Gratitude, which is manifest by selfless and sacrificial giving
TERRORISM – The act of imposing terror on another, in an attempt to destabilize their ecosystem and mechanisms for a sustainable life.
The Answer: Freedom from fear, trust in God’s protection, boldness when facing adversaries

In view of the “ISMS” that have been listed, and the many more that shape our cultural landscape, the truth yet remains, in the words of the prolific songwriter, Andrae Crouch, “Jesus is the answer for the world today, above him there is no other, Jesus is the way.”
Jesus stated the answer emphatically and succinctly in St. John 14:6 (KJV), “Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me.”

Dr. Ricky Allmon is an Assistant Pastor at the Apostolic Church of God- Chicago, Illinois, as well as an Author, Scholar, Leadership Strategist and CEO. Follow Dr. Allmon on all social media platforms @rickyallmon
 
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