Ministry of the Mundane #RTTBROS #Nightlight

Ministry of the Mundane #RTTBROS #Nightlight 

"And the LORD said unto Joshua, See, I have given into thine hand Jericho, and the king thereof, and the mighty men of valour. And ye shall compass the city, all ye men of war, and go round about the city once. Thus shalt thou do six days." - Joshua 6:2-3

Imagine the scene: thousands of armed warriors walking silently around an impenetrable city, day after day, with nothing visible happening. No dramatic breach in the walls, no enemy surrender, no apparent progress. Just the monotonous shuffle of sandaled feet on dusty ground, the weight of armor, and the relentless Middle Eastern sun beating down.

For six days, they marched. Six days of what must have felt utterly pointless to human eyes. Six days when some surely wondered if they had misheard God's voice, if this strategy made any sense, if they were wasting precious time and energy on a fool's errand.

This is the ministry of the mundane, the sacred calling to remain faithful when nothing seems to be happening.

The Temptation to Quit Before the Breakthrough

How many of us abandon our marching on day five? Day six? We read our Bibles faithfully for months with no dramatic spiritual breakthrough. We pray consistently for a wayward child who shows no signs of change. We serve in our local church week after week, often feeling invisible and unappreciated. We choose kindness toward a difficult spouse, forgiveness toward an ungrateful teenager, patience with an elderly parent, over and over again, with little evidence that our efforts are making any difference.

The enemy of our souls knows exactly when to whisper his lies: "This isn't working." "God has forgotten you." "You're wasting your time." "Everyone else sees immediate results, why don't you?"

But the men of Israel teach us something profound about faith: treat every stage like it's your last stage. March around that wall on day six with the same dedication you had on day one, knowing that your breakthrough might be just one more lap away.

The Hidden Work of Faithfulness

What we often fail to understand is that God is always working, even when we cannot see it. Those walls of Jericho weren't crumbling because of the marching itself, they were going to fall because of God's power. But God had chosen to exercise that power through the faithful obedience of His people, day after ordinary day.

Your daily faithfulness is not mundane to God. Every time you choose patience over anger, every morning you open His Word even when you don't feel like it, every act of service performed without recognition, these are the very building blocks of Christian character. This is not the preliminary work before "real ministry" begins; this IS the real ministry.

Consider the parent who faithfully corrects the same behavior in their child for the hundredth time. We long to speak once and see permanent transformation, but God's design involves repetition, patience, and long-term faithfulness. The fruit may not be visible today, or even this year, but every faithful correction is a seed planted in eternity.

Keep Marching

Whatever wall you're facing today, whether it's a difficult relationship, a financial struggle, a health challenge, or simply the ordinary demands of following Christ in a fallen world—remember the men of Israel. They didn't see the end from the beginning. They simply trusted God's word and kept putting one foot in front of the other.

Your mundane faithfulness matters more than you know. That daily Bible reading is shaping your heart. Those patient corrections are forming your children's character. That quiet service is building God's kingdom. That perseverance through difficulty is developing your faith.

Don't stop marching on day six. The walls may fall tomorrow.

"Let us not be weary in well doing: for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not." - Galatians 6:9

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The Music of Rest #RTTBROS #Nightlight

The Music of Rest #RTTBROS #Nightlight 

The Music of Rest: Finding God's Rhythm in a Restless World

"Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest." Matthew 11:28 (KJV)

I violated the rest reality in the Bible to my own hurt, I almost self-destructed. I don't know where I came across this statement, but it's become a pattern I've tried to follow, and it was: "Divert daily, withdraw weekly, and abandon annually." The concept is that we need to have some rest built into each day, each week, and each year. I have been encouraging every pastor friend of mine to follow some version of this and build rest into the rhythm of their life. In music, they say that a rest is when there is no music, but the truth is there is the making of music in the rest. The rest is a vital part of the whole composition. God's design and desire is that the composition of our lives be well-pleasing to Him, and He's the one that established the rhythms of rest as well as the call to do business till He comes.

Just as a musical composition needs rests to create beauty and meaning, our lives need intentional pauses to create space for God's presence and renewal. Without these rests, our life's song becomes a chaotic noise rather than a harmonious melody that glorifies our Creator.

Five Practical Steps to Enter God's Rhythm of Rest

1. Divert Daily (15-30 minutes): Set aside time each day to step away from your regular responsibilities. This could be a morning walk, evening prayer time, or simply sitting quietly with a cup of coffee while reflecting on God's goodness. Turn off devices and tune into God's presence.

2. Withdraw Weekly (Half day to full day): Honor the Sabbath principle by dedicating regular time each week to rest from work and focus on worship, family, and spiritual renewal. This might mean saying no to certain commitments or work projects on your chosen day of rest.

3. Abandon Annually (Several days to weeks): Plan extended periods of rest throughout the year, true vacations where you completely disconnect from work responsibilities. Use this time for deeper spiritual retreats, family bonding, or simply allowing your soul to be restored in God's presence.

4. Create Rest Boundaries: Establish clear boundaries around your rest times. Communicate with family, friends, and colleagues about when you're unavailable. Let your voicemail, email auto-reply, and boundaries protect these sacred times of renewal.

5. Practice the Presence of God in Rest: Don't just rest from work, rest in God. Use your rest times for prayer, Scripture reading, worship, or simply sitting in God's presence. Remember that true rest comes not just from the absence of activity, but from the presence of peace that only God can provide.

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The Undiscovered Country #RTTBROS #Nightlight

The Undiscovered Country #RTTBROS #Nightlight 

The Undiscovered Country: Embracing Our Journey to the Future

 "But they that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint." (Isaiah 40:31, KJV)

"The future is something which everyone reaches at the rate of sixty minutes an hour, whatever he does, whoever he is." C.S. Lewis

In Star Trek VI, the Klingon Chancellor Gorkon speaks of death as "the undiscovered country," borrowing Shakespeare's phrase from Hamlet. Yet in the film's closing moments, Captain Kirk reframes this metaphor: "The undiscovered country... the future." What was once a symbol of finality becomes an invitation to possibility.

The Paradox of Waiting and Soaring

Isaiah's promise presents us with a beautiful paradox: those who wait upon the Lord will soar like eagles. In our culture of instant everything, waiting feels like inaction. But the Hebrew word for "wait" (qavah) carries deeper meaning—it suggests hopeful expectation, like a taut rope under tension, ready to spring into action.

The eagle doesn't flap frantically to stay aloft; it finds the thermal currents and rides them with grace and power. Similarly, when we anchor ourselves in God's character and promises, we discover an updraft of strength that carries us forward into uncertainty.

 Boldly Going Where We've Never Gone

The Star Trek motto "to boldly go where no one has gone before" resonates with the Christian journey. Every morning, we wake to a day that has never existed before. Every choice we make writes a page in history that has never been written. Like the crew of the Enterprise encountering new civilizations, we face each day with both wonder and trepidation.

The unknown stretches before us, personal challenges, global uncertainties, opportunities we can't yet imagine. C.S. Lewis reminds us that this journey is universal; we're all time travelers moving forward at exactly the same pace, regardless of our circumstances or station in life.

Strength for the Undiscovered Country

What transforms our journey from mere survival to soaring adventure? The promise of renewed strength. Isaiah describes three phases of this strength:

- Mounting up with wings as eagles: Moments of transcendence when we rise above our circumstances

- Running without weariness: Seasons of sustained energy and purpose

- Walking without fainting: The quiet endurance needed for ordinary days

Notice the progression moves from spectacular to mundane. The most remarkable promise might be the last—that we won't faint during the simple act of walking. Most of life happens in the walking, not the soaring.

Curiosity as Spiritual Discipline

The future remains undiscovered not because it's hidden from us, but because it doesn't yet exist. It's being written moment by moment through our choices, relationships, and responses to circumstances beyond our control. This uncertainty isn't a design flaw in creation, it's an invitation to trust.

When we approach tomorrow with curiosity rather than anxiety, we practice a form of worship. We acknowledge that God's imagination exceeds our own, that His plans for us contain possibilities we haven't dreamed. Like children on Christmas morning, we can wake each day wondering what gift the hours might bring.

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Treasure Hunt #RTTBROS #Nightlight

Treasure Hunt #RTTBROS #Nightlight 

  Treasure Hunt: The Search for Wisdom

"If thou seekest her as silver, and searchest for her as for hid treasures; Then shalt thou understand the fear of the LORD, and find the knowledge of God." Proverbs 2:45 (KJV)

In November 1922, after six grueling years of excavation in Egypt's Valley of the Kings, archaeologist Howard Carter made a discovery that would captivate the world. With trembling hands, he peered through a small hole into the darkness and famously whispered, "I see wonderful things." Behind that ancient doorway lay the virtually intact tomb of Tutankhamun, filled with treasures beyond imagination.

Carter's quest had been marked by relentless persistence. Season after season, he had endured the scorching desert heat, financial pressures, and mounting skepticism from critics who believed the valley held no more secrets. Yet Carter pressed on, convinced that somewhere beneath the shifting sands lay a prize worth every sacrifice.

How remarkably this mirrors our spiritual journey in seeking divine wisdom! God has not hidden His treasures in some distant, unreachable realm. Instead, He has graciously placed them within our reach in the pages of Scripture, particularly in the wisdom literature of the Old Testament. The books of Proverbs, Ecclesiastes, and Job contain riches more valuable than all of Pharaoh's gold.

Yet like Carter's archaeological dig, the pursuit of wisdom requires persistent effort. The casual reader may glimpse only surface truths, but those who dig deeper, who study, meditate, and apply God's Word with the same determination Carter showed in the desert—will uncover treasures that transform their lives.

Consider the persistence required in both quests. Carter didn't abandon his search after the first unsuccessful season, nor should we abandon our study of Scripture after a difficult passage or a dry season in our spiritual lives. Just as Carter methodically sifted through sand and debris, we must carefully examine each verse, each principle, allowing the Holy Spirit to illuminate truths that might otherwise remain buried.

The wisdom literature of the Old Testament offers us practical guidance for daily living, insights into human nature, and profound understanding of our relationship with the Almighty. These treasures don't reveal themselves to the hurried or superficial seeker. They require the same patient excavation that Carter employed in his earthly quest.

When Carter finally entered Tutankhamun's burial chamber, he found not just gold and jewels, but artifacts that revealed the beliefs, customs, and aspirations of an ancient civilization. Similarly, when we persistently search the Scriptures, we discover not merely moral teachings, but the very heart and character of God Himself.

The riches Carter found were temporary, museum pieces that fascinate but cannot transform. The wisdom we uncover in God's Word, however, has the power to change our hearts, guide our decisions, and prepare us for eternity. As the wise man wrote, "Happy is the man that findeth wisdom, and the man that getteth understanding. For the merchandise of it is better than the merchandise of silver, and the gain thereof than fine gold" (Proverbs 3:1314).

Let us approach our Bibles with the same excitement and anticipation that filled Howard Carter as he searched the Valley of the Kings. God's treasures await our discovery, but they require our diligent seeking. Unlike earthly treasures that may be stolen or decay, the wisdom we gain from Scripture becomes part of our eternal inheritance.

The sand has long since settled over Carter's excavation sites, but the treasures of divine wisdom remain as fresh and accessible today as they were when Solomon first penned his proverbs. Will we be content to admire them from a distance, or will we take up our spiritual tools and begin the rewarding work of uncovering the riches God has prepared for those who diligently seek Him?

Prayer: Heavenly Father, grant us the persistence of Howard Carter as we search Your Word for wisdom. Help us to value Your spiritual treasures above all earthly riches, and give us diligent hearts that will not grow weary in seeking Your truth. In Jesus' name, Amen.

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Empty Hands #prayer #Knowledge #Witness #God #Nightlight #RTTBROS #TrustInGod #sovereignty #wisdom #fearofthelord

Empty Hands #RTTBROS #Nightlight 

  Empty Hands, Open Hearts: The Wisdom of Being Teachable

"The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge: but fools despise wisdom and instruction." Proverbs 1:7 (KJV)

There's something profoundly humbling about Solomon's opening words in Proverbs. Here stands the wisest man who ever lived, and his first lesson isn't about accumulating facts or winning arguments, it's about posture. The posture of fear. The posture of reverence. The posture of someone who knows they don't know it all.

How often do we approach God's Word like scholars defending a thesis rather than students seeking truth? We flip through familiar passages, nodding along with verses that confirm what we already believe, while our eyes glaze over the uncomfortable ones that challenge our assumptions. We come to Scripture like lawyers building a case rather than children learning to walk.

But notice what Solomon calls this alternative approach: foolishness. "But fools despise wisdom and instruction." The Hebrew word for "despise" here carries the idea of rejecting with contempt, of treating something as worthless. When we use the Bible merely to rubber-stamp our existing opinions, we're essentially saying, "I already know what I need to know. God's Word is only valuable when it agrees with me."

The "fear of the LORD" that Solomon describes isn't terror, it's the breathless awe of standing before infinite wisdom and recognizing our desperate need for it. It's the difference between a cocky student who thinks they could teach the class and a hungry learner who hangs on every word because they know their life depends on understanding.

This fear produces a specific kind of knowledge, not just information, but transformation. When we approach God's Word as learners rather than lecturers, something beautiful happens: we discover truths that make us uncomfortable, and that discomfort becomes the very place where growth occurs.

Consider how often Jesus had to correct people who thought they had God figured out. The Pharisees knew their Scriptures backward and forward, yet missed the Messiah standing right in front of them. They had turned God's Word into a weapon for their arguments rather than a mirror for their hearts.

"Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths." Proverbs 3:5-6 (KJV)

Here's the invitation: to come before God with empty hands and an open heart. To let His Word shape our opinions rather than forcing our opinions onto His Word. To embrace the uncomfortable verses alongside the comforting ones, knowing that God's wisdom often looks foolish to our limited perspective.

Reflection Questions:

- When you read Scripture, are you more often surprised by what you find, or do you find exactly what you expected?

- What biblical truths make you uncomfortable, and how might God be using that discomfort to teach you?

- How can you cultivate a "fear of the LORD" that leads to genuine learning rather than mere confirmation?

Prayer:

Lord, help us to come before Your Word not as experts but as students, not as judges but as those being judged by Your truth. Give us the humility to let Your wisdom reshape our thinking, even when it challenges our comfortable assumptions. May we truly fear You, not in terror, but in the awe-struck recognition that You alone have the words of eternal life. Amen.

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Yours In Christ #RTTBROS #Nightlight

Yours In Christ #RTTBROS #Nightlight 

 Yours in Christ: The Sacred Art of Connection

"Grace be with you, mercy, and peace, from God the Father, and from the Lord Jesus Christ, the Son of the Father, in truth and love." 2 John 1:3

During my monthly visits to our church's shut-ins, I had the privilege of witnessing something beautiful that has become increasingly rare in our digital age. As I arrived at one dear sister's home with my usual offering of cookies and devotional materials, I found her just finishing an old-fashioned letter written by hand on paper. Her eyes sparkled as she told me about reconnecting with a childhood friend from their church days together, someone who had recently visited and rekindled their precious friendship.

We sat together and talked about how letter writing has become a lost art. In our world of instant messages, emails, and texts, we've gained speed but perhaps lost something deeper. She showed me her letter, and there at the bottom, written in her careful script, were the words "Yours in Christ."

Those three simple words stirred something in my heart. "Yours in Christ," what a profound declaration of connection, not just between two people, but rooted in something eternal. When our grandparents and great-grandparents closed their letters with "Sincerely yours," "Faithfully yours," or "Yours in Christ," they weren't just following social convention. They were acknowledging a sacred bond.

In our rush toward digital efficiency, we've replaced these meaningful closings with quick signatures or simple names. But what have we lost in translation? When someone writes "Yours in Christ," they're saying something powerful: "I belong to Christ, and in Him, I belong to you too. Our connection runs deeper than mere friendship, it's rooted in the eternal."

The apostle John understood this sacred connection. His letters overflow with expressions of love, grace, and peace that flow from our shared relationship with the Father and His Son. John didn't just sign his name and move on; he reminded his readers of the spiritual bonds that tied them together in truth and love.

As I prayed with this precious sister that day, I was reminded that every encounter we have with fellow believers is an opportunity to say, in word and deed, "Yours in Christ." Whether we're dropping off cookies, making a phone call, or sending a text message, we can infuse our connections with the understanding that we belong to each other because we first belong to Him.

Perhaps it's time to revive this lost art, not necessarily the handwritten letters (though what a gift that would be!), but the heart behind those sacred closings. In a world that often feels disconnected and hurried, what if we approached each interaction with the spirit of "Yours in Christ"? What if we remembered that our relationships with fellow believers are not casual acquaintances but eternal connections forged by the love of our Savior?

The next time you end a conversation, send a message, or say goodbye to a brother or sister in faith, remember that you are theirs in Christ, and they are yours in Him. This bond transcends time, distance, and even death itself.

Prayer: Heavenly Father, thank You for the precious connections You've given us through Your Son. Help us to remember that our relationships with fellow believers are sacred bonds that reflect Your love. May we treat each interaction as holy ground, knowing that we are Yours, and in You, we belong to one another. In Jesus' name, Amen.

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The Totally Other. #RTTBROS #Nightlight

The Totally Other. #RTTBROS #Nightlight 

The Totally Other: Why the Almighty Isn't Your Cosmic Butler

We live in an age that has domesticated God. We've shrunk the Creator of galaxies down to the size of our personal problems, transformed the Judge of all nations into our heavenly yes-man, and reduced the Holy One of Israel to a divine vending machine that dispenses blessings when we insert the right prayers.

But Scripture paints a radically different picture. When Isaiah caught a glimpse of God's throne room, he didn't see a kindly grandfather or a cosmic buddy. He witnessed something that shattered his very sense of self: "In the year that king Uzziah died I saw also the Lord sitting upon a throne, high and lifted up, and his train filled the temple. Above it stood seraphims: each one had six wings; with twain he covered his face, and with twain he covered his feet, and with twain he did fly. And one cried unto another, and said, Holy, holy, holy, is the Lord of hosts: the whole earth is full of his glory" (Isaiah 6:1-3).

Notice that even the seraphim—those burning ones who dwell in God's presence, cover their faces. They cannot look directly upon His holiness. Isaiah's response? "Woe is me! for I am undone; because I am a man of unclean lips, and I dwell in the midst of a people of unclean lips: for mine eyes have seen the King, the Lord of hosts" (Isaiah 6:5).

This is not the reaction of someone meeting their buddy in the sky. This is the response of a creature encountering the absolutely Other, the One who is so far above us in holiness, power, and majesty that human language fails to capture His essence.

God's otherness isn't just about His power, though He "doeth according to his will in the army of heaven, and among the inhabitants of the earth: and none can stay his hand, or say unto him, What doest thou?" (Daniel 4:35). It's about His perfect holiness that cannot tolerate sin, His perfect justice that demands righteousness, and His perfect nature that exists completely independent of our approval or understanding.

When we approach God as if He owes us something, when we demand He explain Himself to us, when we reshape Him in the image of our preferences, we reveal how little we understand who He actually is. The God of the Bible is not running for office seeking our vote. He is not a service provider competing for our business. He is the sovereign King whose thoughts are not our thoughts and whose ways are not our ways (Isaiah 55:8-9).

This should humble us, but it should also fill us with wonder. The same God who is so holy that mountains melt at His presence chose to make a way for unholy people to approach Him through Christ. The same God who needs nothing from us chose to love us. The same God who could crush us with a word instead calls us His children.

Let us never forget: our God is not safe, but He is good. He is not manageable, but He is merciful. He is not our equal, but in Christ, He is our Father. Approach Him today not as a peer, but as a subject before the King of kings, with reverence, with awe, and with gratitude that such a holy God would welcome you into His presence at all.

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How to know Heaven is your home. #RTTBROS #Nightlight

How to know Heaven is your home. #RTTBROS #Nightlight 

How to know Heaven is your home.

If you've ever felt like something's missing in your life, or wondered what happens after death, you're asking the right questions. Today I want to share the most important message you'll ever hear.

Step 1: Recognize that we're all sinners. The Bible says in Romans 3:23 that "all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God." This means that none of us are perfect - we've all made mistakes, hurt others, sinned and fallen short of God's standard. We all need forgiveness for the things we've done wrong.

Step 2: Understand the consequence of sin - and God's amazing solution. Romans 6:23 tells us that "the wages of sin is death" - there's a price to pay for our sin, and it leads to separation from God forever.  But here's the beautiful thing: that same verse continues with "but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord." God didn't leave us hopeless.

Step 3: Believe in Jesus Christ. The good news is that God loves us so much that He sent His Son, Jesus, to die for our sins. Romans 5:8 says, "While we were yet sinners, Christ died for us." All you have to do is repent of your sins and believe in Him and what He did for you on the cross. Now, you might be thinking this sounds too simple - but that's the beauty of God's grace. We can't earn our way to heaven, but Jesus already paid the price.

Step 4: Confess your faith in Jesus. Romans 10:9 says that "if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved." This means that you need to openly admit that you believe in Jesus and that He is your Lord and Savior.

If you'd like to pray with me right now, you could say something like: "God, I admit I'm a sinner. I believe Jesus died for my sins, which I repent of right now.  I believe Jesus rose again to give me eternal life. I want to follow Him. Please forgive me and make me new."

If you've made this decision today, here's what I encourage you to do next: find a Bible-believing church, start reading God's Word daily, and tell someone about your new faith. This isn't the end, it's just the beginning of discovering peace, purpose, and the assurance that you'll spend eternity with God.

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GOD'S REP #RTTBROS #Nightlight

GOD'S REP   #RTTBROS #Nightlight

GOD'S REP #RTTBROS #Nightlight

"Let them praise thy great and terrible name; for it is holy." - Psalm 99:3 (KJV)

In the annals of Scripture, we find a common thread woven through the stories of David and Goliath, Daniel's refusal of the king's portion, and our Lord Jesus Christ cleansing the temple. This thread is the unwavering commitment to uphold God's holiness and reputation above all else.

Consider David, a young shepherd who faced the mighty Goliath. His motivation was not personal glory, but rather a zeal for the Lord's name. As we read in 1 Samuel 17:45, David declared, "I come to thee in the name of the LORD of hosts, the God of the armies of Israel, whom thou hast defied."

Similarly, Daniel, when presented with the king's rich fare, "purposed in his heart that he would not defile himself with the portion of the king's meat, nor with the wine which he drank" (Daniel 1:8). His primary concern was not his own comfort or advancement, but maintaining his purity before God.

Lastly, we see our Saviour, Jesus Christ, cleansing the temple with righteous indignation. As recorded in Mark 11:17, He proclaimed, "Is it not written, My house shall be called of all nations the house of prayer? but ye have made it a den of thieves." His actions were not driven by personal gain, but by a fervent desire to preserve the sanctity of His Father's house.

These examples teach us a profound lesson in discipleship. As followers of Christ, our primary mission is to glorify God and uphold His reputation in all circumstances. This may often require us to set aside our own desires, comforts, and even our personal reputations for the sake of God's name.

In our daily walk, let us continually ask ourselves: Does this action, word, or decision bring glory to God? Are we more concerned with our own agenda or with advancing God's kingdom? By aligning our hearts with this divine priority, we can become more effective disciples, shining the light of Christ in a world that desperately needs it.

May we, like David, Daniel, and our Lord Jesus, be found faithful in upholding God's holy name, for as the Psalmist declares, "Let them praise thy great and terrible name; for it is holy" (Psalm 99:3).

 

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God of the Glitch #RTTBROS #Nightlight

God of the Glitch #RTTBROS #Nightlight 

"And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose." - Romans 8:28 (KJV)

I am passing along a story I came across to illustrate this verse

"It's over, man. My whole life just fell apart because of a stupid typo."

Jake had been unemployed for eight months. His savings were gone, his girlfriend had left him, and his dad kept asking when he was going to "get his act together." Finally, after dozens of rejections, he'd landed an interview at his dream company, a prestigious marketing firm downtown.

The interview went perfectly. They loved him. The hiring manager shook his hand and said, "Jake, we'd love to have you on the team. Just send over your references and we'll get the paperwork started."

Jake was so excited he could barely sleep. This was it, his breakthrough moment. He carefully typed up his reference list at 11 PM, double-checked every email address, every phone number. He hit send and went to bed feeling like his prayers had finally been answered.

But the next morning, his phone rang. It was his potential boss.

"Jake, I'm confused. We received your email, but instead of references, you sent us what appears to be a very personal prayer letter addressed to God about your struggles with depression and asking for guidance about your relationship."

Jake's heart stopped. In his excitement, he'd accidentally attached the wrong document, a raw, vulnerable prayer journal entry he'd written months earlier during his darkest moment.

"I'm so sorry," Jake stammered. "That was a mistake. I can send the right document immediately."

"Actually Jake," the voice said slowly, "don't worry about the references right now. Could you come in this afternoon? I'd like to talk with you."

Jake was certain he was about to be humiliated and rejected once again. He walked into that office prepared for the worst conversation of his life.

But here's what Jake didn't know...

The hiring manager, David, had been struggling with his own private battle. His teenage son had been diagnosed with severe depression three months earlier, and David felt completely helpless. He'd been praying for wisdom, for understanding, for any sign of how to help his boy.

When David read Jake's accidental prayer - his honest wrestling with dark thoughts, his determination to keep fighting, his simple faith that God had a plan even when he couldn't see it - something clicked.

The rest of the story?

That afternoon, David didn't offer Jake just any job. He offered him a position heading up their new mental health awareness campaign for a major client. A campaign that would become Jake's specialty and passion.

People need to understand that their struggles aren't obstacles to God's plan - they're often the very preparation for it.

"And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness." - 2 Corinthians 12:9 (KJV)

Sometimes what we call our most embarrassing mistake... God calls our greatest qualification.

This is "God in the Glitch", where your worst moments become your most powerful ministry. Because sometimes God uses our broken send button to send us exactly where we need to go.

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Your Story, His Glory #RTTBROS #Nightlight

Your Story, His Glory #RTTBROS #Nightlight 

Your Story, His Glory: The Tale That Calls Your Tribe

"Come and hear, all ye that fear God, and I will declare what he hath done for my soul." Psalm 66:16 (KJV)

The psalmist understood something profound that many of us forget: our personal encounters with God aren't meant to be kept as private treasures. They're meant to be declared, shared, and proclaimed. When we tell our tale, our unique chapter in God's magnificent story, something beautiful happens. We attract our tribe.

Your story matters because it carries the fingerprints of the Almighty. Every valley you've walked through, every mountain you've climbed, every moment of breakthrough and every season of waiting, these aren't random events. They're carefully orchestrated scenes in the grand narrative of God's glory being revealed through ordinary people like you and me.

Some worry that sharing their story might sound prideful or self-centered. But here's the truth: when God is the hero of your story, there's no room for pride. When you tell of His faithfulness in your darkest hour, His provision when resources were scarce, or His peace that surpassed understanding in chaos, you're not elevating yourself, you're magnifying Him.

Your tale attracts your tribe because authenticity resonates. When you share how God showed up in your specific circumstances, you give others permission to believe He'll show up in theirs. Your struggle with infertility speaks to the woman who's been trying for years. Your story of financial breakthrough encourages the family facing foreclosure. Your testimony of healing gives hope to someone in a hospital bed.

God never intended for His children to walk alone. He designed us for community, for connection, for tribes that understand our language because they've walked similar paths. When you courageously share your piece of His glory story, you send out a signal that draws the right people, those who need to hear exactly what you've experienced, and those whose stories will strengthen your own faith.

Your testimony isn't about you being the hero; it's about showcasing the Hero who never fails. It's about putting His goodness on display through the canvas of your life. Every scar tells of His healing power. Every victory points to His faithfulness. Every redeemed mistake demonstrates His grace.

Don't let fear silence your story. Don't let false humility rob others of the encouragement your testimony could bring. God has written beautiful chapters through your life, chapters that are uniquely yours but universally powerful because they reveal His unchanging character.

Tell your tale. Watch your tribe gather. And remember, it was always part of His plan.

Prayer: Father, give me boldness to share my story, knowing that You are the hero of every chapter. Help me see my experiences through Your eyes and use my testimony to draw others into Your loving embrace. May my tale always point to Your glory. Amen.

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Beyond Trouble #RTTBROS #Nightlight

Beyond Trouble #RTTBROS #Nightlight 

 Beyond Today's Troubles

"For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, saith the LORD, thoughts of peace, and not of evil, to give you an expected end." - Jeremiah 29:11

"God's plans for your life far exceed the circumstances of your day."

When we find ourselves overwhelmed by the weight of today's challenges, it's easy to lose sight of the bigger picture. The bills on your kitchen table, the tension in your relationships, the uncertainty at work, or the health concerns that keep you awake at night can feel all-consuming. In these moments, our vision becomes narrow, focused only on what we can see right in front of us.

But God's perspective is infinitely different from ours. While we see today's struggles, He sees the masterpiece He's creating through every season of our lives. The very circumstances that feel like obstacles may actually be the tools He's using to shape us, strengthen us, and prepare us for the good works He has planned.

Consider Joseph, whose brothers sold him into slavery. In that moment, his circumstances seemed hopeless. Yet God was orchestrating events that would eventually place Joseph in a position to save nations from famine. What appeared to be a devastating setback was actually a divine setup.

The same God who worked through Joseph's difficulties is working through yours. Your current chapter is not your final story. The financial pressure you're facing doesn't define your future provision. The broken relationship doesn't determine your capacity for love. The closed door doesn't mean there isn't a better one waiting to open.

God's plans for you are not merely about getting you through today, though He will. They're about transforming you into who He created you to be and positioning you for purposes you haven't even imagined yet. His thoughts toward you are thoughts of peace, hope, and a future filled with meaning.

Today, when the circumstances feel heavy, remember that they are temporary, but God's plans for you are eternal. Look beyond what you can see with your eyes and trust what He has promised with His word. Your best days are not behind you – they're ahead of you, woven into the perfect plan of a God who loves you more than you can comprehend.

Prayer: Heavenly Father, when I can only see today's troubles, help me to trust in Your eternal perspective. Remind me that You are working all things together for my good and Your glory. Give me faith to believe that Your plans for my life far exceed anything I can see or imagine today. In Jesus' name, Amen.

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Jesus and Politics #RTTBROS #Nightlight #NK #Normankissinger

 Jesus and Politics #RTTBROS #Nightlight #NK #Normankissinger

Scripture: "Think not that I am come to send peace on earth: I came not to send peace, but a sword. For I am come to set a man at variance against his father, and the daughter against

her mother, and the daughter in law against her mother in law. And a man's foes shall be they of his own household." - Matthew 10:34-36 (KJV)

---

For fifty years, believers have wrestled with the question of how involved the church should be in politics. This debate has intensified dramatically in recent years as political tensions have reached levels not seen since before World War II, the Great Depression, or even the Civil War. The question seems to divide Christians into different camps: those who believe we should focus solely on the gospel, and those who believe we must actively voice our beliefs in the public square.

Yet as I sat on my front porch contemplating this age-old question, a profound realization struck me: 

Jesus is politics.

This isn't to say that Jesus belonged to a political party or endorsed specific candidates. Rather, it means that wherever Jesus shows up—in any time, place, or circumstance—everything changes. From the moment of His birth until His ascension into heaven, and continuing today, His very presence transforms the political, social, spiritual, emotional, and psychological realms around Him.

Jesus Himself acknowledged this reality when He said, "Think not that I am come to send peace on earth: I came not to send peace, but a sword." He knew that His presence would divide families, set parents against children, and create conflict simply because His truth is so radical that it disrupts the status quo of the world around us.

The question isn't whether Christians should be involved in politics—we already are, simply by existing as followers of Christ. When we live out our faith authentically, we inevitably affect the world around us. Our values, our compassion, our commitment to truth and justice naturally influence the political landscape, whether we intend it or not.

The Real Question

The real question isn't whether we should be involved, but how effectively we're living out our faith. If we're truly following Christ, we will be making a difference in our communities, our nation, and our world. This doesn't mean we must have an opinion on every political issue, but it does mean we cannot retreat entirely from the public square.

There are battles being fought over religious freedom, with Christian ministries being silenced and believers being told we have no right to have a voice at the table. In such times, our very presence as Christians is a political act—an act of resistance against a culture that increasingly rejects biblical truth.

Prayer for Today

Lord Jesus, help me to understand that my faith is not a private matter that can be compartmentalized away from the world around me. Give me wisdom to know when and how to engage in the political realm, always with love, truth, and grace. May my life be so transformed by Your presence that it naturally influences everything I touch. Help me to be salt and light in a world that desperately needs both. In Your name I pray, Amen.

Reflection Questions

1. How has your faith influenced your views on current political issues?

2. In what ways can you be "salt and light" in your community without compromising the gospel?

3. How do you balance speaking truth with showing Christ's love to those who disagree with you?

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Remember: We are not called to bring peace but transformation. Wherever Christ dwells, change follows.

God's Dark Canvas #RTTBROS #Nightlight

God's Dark Canvas #RTTBROS #Nightlight 

When Darkness Becomes His Canvas

"The light shineth in the darkness; and the darkness comprehended it not." John 1:5 (KJV)

"The darkest moments of our lives are opportunities for God to shine His brightest light."

An artist once said that the most stunning portraits are painted against the darkest backgrounds. The deeper the shadow, the more brilliant the light appears when it breaks through. This truth echoes profoundly in our spiritual lives, where God often does His most magnificent work in our deepest valleys.

When we find ourselves surrounded by circumstances that seem impossible, when the weight of loss or disappointment threatens to crush our spirit, when fear whispers that hope is foolish, these are precisely the moments when heaven prepares to reveal its glory. Our darkness becomes God's canvas, and upon it He paints strokes of grace, mercy, and supernatural peace that could never be fully appreciated in the bright noon of our comfortable days.

Consider how a single candle transforms a pitch black room. The flame doesn't struggle or strain; it simply burns, and darkness flees. In the same way, God's presence in our trials doesn't always remove the difficulty immediately, but it transforms our experience of it entirely. His light doesn't just illuminate our path it becomes our path.

The most powerful testimonies aren't born in boardrooms or sanctuaries, but in hospital waiting rooms, in the silence after devastating news, in the lonely hours when sleep won't come. These sacred spaces of suffering become theaters where God's faithfulness takes center stage, witnessed by angels and encouraging future generations who will face their own dark nights.

Your current struggle isn't evidence of God's absence, it's the very stage upon which His presence will be most dramatically revealed. The darker your night, the more stunning His dawn will appear. Trust that He who called light from nothing is even now preparing to call hope from your hopelessness, strength from your weakness, and beauty from your ashes.

Prayer: Heavenly Father, when I cannot see Your hand, help me trust Your heart. In this darkness, I choose to believe You are painting something beautiful. Let Your light shine through my circumstances in ways that bring You glory and give others hope. Amen.

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You Are Seen #RTTBROS #Nightlight The SEEN Life: Moving from Hidden to Healed

You Are Seen #RTTBROS #Nightlight 

The SEEN Life: Moving from Hidden to Healed

You Are Seen #RTTBROS #Nightlight 

The SEEN Life: Moving from Hidden to Healed

"Search me, O God, and know my heart: try me, and know my thoughts: And see if there be any wicked way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting."- Psalm 139:23-24 (KJV)

In the depths of our hearts lie chambers we'd rather keep locked. We carry fears that paralyze, shame that silences, expectations that disappoint, and needs that go unmet. Yet God calls us to live a SEEN life: one where nothing remains hidden from His loving gaze or our own honest reflection.

What am I SCARED of? Fear has a way of whispering lies in the darkness, convincing us that we're not strong enough, smart enough, or worthy enough. But the psalmist knew that when we bring our fears into God's light, He meets us there. "The Lord is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear? the Lord is the strength of my life; of whom shall I be afraid?" (Psalm 27:1). Your fears lose their power when you name them before the One who has already conquered them.

What am I EMBARRASSED about? Shame thrives in secrecy, but it withers in the presence of grace. Those moments that make us want to hide, our failures, our weaknesses, our past mistakes, are the very places where God's mercy shines brightest. "If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness" (1 John 1:9). What embarrasses you today can become tomorrow's testimony of God's redemptive power.

What am I EXPECTING? Sometimes we build castles in the air with our expectations, only to watch them crumble when reality doesn't match our dreams. Unrealistic expectations breed disappointment, while unrealized ones create bitterness. But when we surrender our expectations to God's will, we find something better than what we imagined. "For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, saith the Lord" (Isaiah 55:8). His plans surpass our expectations every time.

What do I NEED? Beneath our wants lie our true needs, for love, acceptance, purpose, and peace. Often we seek these in places that cannot satisfy, but God knows our deepest needs before we even voice them. "But my God shall supply all your need according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus" (Philippians 4:19). When you identify what you truly need, you can bring those needs to the One who is able to meet them abundantly.

Living SEEN means choosing vulnerability over hiding, truth over pretense, and faith over fear. It means allowing God to search the hidden places of your heart and trusting that what He finds there, He can heal and transform. When you dare to be fully known, by God and by trusted others, you discover that you are fully loved, not despite your struggles, but through them.

Today, invite God into every corner of your heart. Let Him see what scares you, what shames you, what you're hoping for, and what you need. In His presence, you'll find that being SEEN is not something to fear, but something to embrace. For in His eyes, you are precious, chosen, and deeply loved.

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Magnificent Obsession #RTTBROS #Nightlight

Magnificent Obsession #RTTBROS #Nightlight 

 Never Without Christ: The Soul of Every Prayer and Sermon

"But God forbid that I should glory, save in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, by whom the world is crucified unto me, and I unto the world." Galatians 6:14 (KJV)

The great preacher Charles Spurgeon once declared with passionate conviction:

"See to it then, beloved, that you never pray a prayer which is not sweetened with Christ. I would never preach a sermon—the Lord forgive me if I do—which is not full to overflowing with my Master. I know one who said I was always on the old string and he would come and hear me no more; but if I preached a sermon without Christ in it, he would come. Ah, he will never come while this tongue moves, for a sermon without Christ in it—a Christless sermon! A brook without water; a cloud without rain; a well which mocks the traveller; a tree twice dead, plucked up by the root; a sky without a sun; a night without a star. It is a realm of death—a place of mourning for angels and laughter for devils."

What vivid imagery Spurgeon paints of a message devoid of Christ! Like a brook that offers no refreshment to the thirsty soul, or a cloud heavy with promise but yielding no life-giving rain, our words become empty shells when stripped of the Savior's presence.

Consider how Christ Himself is woven into the very fabric of Scripture. From Genesis to Revelation, every page whispers His name. The sacrificial lamb speaks of Him. The bronze serpent lifted in the wilderness points to Him. The temple veil torn in two proclaims His finished work. Even in the genealogies and seemingly mundane passages, careful study reveals shadows and types of our blessed Redeemer.

If the inspired Word cannot be properly understood apart from Christ, how much more should our prayers and proclamations be saturated with His presence? When we pray, we come not in our own merit but through His precious blood. When we speak of spiritual matters, we dare not offer stones for bread or serpents for fish to hungry souls.

The apostle Paul understood this truth deeply. In his letter to the Corinthians, he wrote, "For I determined not to know any thing among you, save Jesus Christ, and him crucified" (1 Corinthians 2:2). This was not intellectual limitation but spiritual wisdom. Paul recognized that Christ is not merely a topic among many—He is the golden thread that gives meaning to all other truths.

Today, let us examine our own hearts. Are our prayers enriched with gratitude for His sacrifice? Do our conversations naturally turn toward His goodness? When we have opportunity to encourage others, do we point them to the One who is the source of all comfort?

A prayer without Christ becomes mere wishful thinking. A message without Christ becomes hollow philosophy. But when our Savior fills our words, they become vessels of grace, instruments of hope, and channels of divine love.

May we never be guilty of offering a well without water to thirsty souls. Instead, let us ensure that every word we speak and every prayer we offer overflows with the sweetness of our precious Lord Jesus Christ.

Prayer:

Heavenly Father, forgive us when our prayers have been self-centered and our words have lacked the sweetness of Christ. Help us to be so filled with Your Son that He naturally flows from our lips in every conversation and petition. May we never offer empty cisterns to thirsty souls, but always point to the Living Water. In Jesus' precious name, Amen.

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Before Sin, There Was a Savior #RTTBROS #Nightlight

Before Sin, There Was a Savior #RTTBROS #Nightlight 

"But where sin abounded, grace did much more abound." - Romans 5:20 (KJV)

"God's grace is greater than our greatest sin."

This simple yet profound truth carries the weight of eternity within its words. When we examine the depths of our human condition, we often find ourselves overwhelmed by the magnitude of our failures, our shortcomings, and our rebellion against our Creator. Yet Scripture declares something that defies human logic and surpasses earthly understanding: grace doesn't just match our sin, it overwhelms it.

Before There Was Sin, There Was a Savior

Long before Adam's hand reached for forbidden fruit, before the first tear of guilt was shed, before humanity even knew what it meant to fall short of God's glory, there existed a plan of redemption. The Lamb was slain before the foundation of the world. This reveals something extraordinary about the nature of our God, His love and provision preceded our need. He didn't scramble to find a solution after we messed up; He had already prepared the remedy before the disease ever manifested.

Before There Was Guilt, There Was Grace

When shame first entered the human heart, grace was already there waiting. The very moment Adam and Eve recognized their nakedness and hid from God, grace was pursuing them through the garden, calling out, "Where are you?" This wasn't the question of an ignorant God seeking information, but the call of a loving Father extending an invitation to restoration. Grace had already made provision for their covering, both physical and spiritual.

Before I Ever Messed Up, There Was Mercy

Personal reflection brings this truth home to our hearts. Every mistake you've made, every failure that haunts your memory, every secret sin that brings you shame, none of these caught God off guard. His mercy toward you existed before you ever needed it. Before your first breath, His love for you was already complete. Before your first sin, His forgiveness was already secured through Christ's sacrifice.

The beauty of this divine truth is that grace doesn't diminish as our sins increase. Paul's words in Romans reveal that where sin abounded, grace didn't just show up, it "much more abounded." The Greek word used here suggests an overwhelming abundance, a superabundance that exceeds all boundaries.

This means that your worst day doesn't define you. Your deepest failure doesn't disqualify you. Your most shameful moment doesn't separate you from God's love. Grace is greater. Grace was there first. Grace will have the final word.

When the enemy whispers that you've gone too far, remember: grace went further. When guilt suggests you're beyond redemption, remember: grace was there before you needed redemption. When shame tries to convince you that you're unworthy of love, remember: God's love existed before you were even capable of earning or losing it.

Living in the Reality of Greater Grace:

Understanding that God's grace is greater than our greatest sin should transform how we approach both our failures and our relationship with God. We don't have to minimize our sin or pretend it doesn't matter, we can acknowledge its full weight while simultaneously celebrating grace's superior strength.

This truth also calls us to extend the same preemptive grace to others that God has shown us. Just as His mercy was waiting for us before we knew we needed it, we can offer grace to others before they even ask for it.

Today, let the magnitude of God's grace wash over every area of guilt, shame, and condemnation in your life. You are not defined by your worst moment but by His best gift. His grace doesn't just cover your sin, it overwhelms it, transforms it, and uses even your failures for His glory.

"God's grace is greater than our greatest sin." Let this truth settle deep into your soul and change how you see yourself, your past, and your future.

Prayer: Father, thank You that Your grace was waiting for me before I ever knew I needed it. Help me to live in the freedom of knowing that Your love preceded my failure and Your mercy overwhelms my mistakes. Let this truth transform not only how I see myself but how I extend grace to others. In Jesus' name, Amen.

#GraceGreater #BeforeSinTherewasaSavior #GodsMercyEndures

 

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Don't Boss The Boss #Nightlight #RTTBROS

Don't Boss The Boss #Nightlight #RTTBROS 

Don't Boss the Boss: Surrendering Our Demand for Divine Obedience

"Woe unto him that striveth with his Maker! Let the potsherd strive with the potsherds of the earth. Shall the clay say to him that fashioneth it, What makest thou? or thy work, He hath no hands?" Isaiah 45:9 (KJV)

There's a dangerous reversal happening in many hearts today. We approach God not as humble servants seeking His will, but as demanding customers expecting divine customer service. When circumstances don't align with our plans, when prayers seem unanswered, when God's timing doesn't match our urgency, we find ourselves angry, not with our situation, but with God Himself.

The Problem: Playing God to God

When we demand that God conform to our understanding, we're essentially saying, "I know better than You do." We're telling the One who spoke galaxies into existence that our finite perspective trumps His infinite wisdom. We're informing the God who sees the end from the beginning that He's gotten our story wrong.

This reveals a fundamental misunderstanding of who God is and who we are. As the clay, we have no right to question the Potter's methods. As children, we have no authority to command our heavenly Father.

The Spiritual Solution: Returning to Our Rightful Position

The remedy begins with repentance, not God repenting to us, but us repenting to God. We must acknowledge that our frustration with His apparent "disobedience" to our will is actually rebellion against His rightful lordship.

First, humble ourselves before His sovereignty: "God resisteth the proud, but giveth grace unto the humble" (James 4:6, KJV).

Second, trust His perfect love and wisdom: "And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose" (Romans 8:28, KJV).

Third, surrender our timeline to His: "To every thing there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven" (Ecclesiastes 3:1, KJV).

Finally, pray with Christ's heart: "Nevertheless not my will, but thine, be done" (Luke 22:42, KJV).

The peace we seek won't come from getting God to obey us, but from learning to trust and obey Him. When we stop trying to be the father and return to our place as beloved children, we'll discover that His will is not a burden to bear but a gift to receive.

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Freedom Isn't Free #Nightlight #RTTBROS

Freedom Isn't Free #Nightlight #RTTBROS 

 Freedom Isn't Free - The Price of Liberty in Two Realms

"Stand fast therefore in the liberty wherewith Christ hath made us free, and be not entangled again with the yoke of bondage." Galatians 5:1 (KJV)

The phrase "freedom isn't free" adorns monuments and memorials across our nation, reminding us that liberty always comes at a cost. Someone always pays the price for someone else's freedom.

Our founding fathers understood this truth when they pledged "our Lives, our Fortunes and our sacred Honor" for independence. Generations of Americans have honored that pledge, paying freedom's price with their blood on foreign shores and domestic soil. They understood that some things are worth dying for, and liberty tops that list.

But there's another freedom that came at an even greater cost—our spiritual liberty. "Forasmuch as ye know that ye were not redeemed with corruptible things, as silver and gold, from your vain conversation received by tradition from your fathers; But with the precious blood of Christ, as of a lamb without blemish and without spot" (1 Peter 1:18-19, KJV).

Christ paid the ultimate price to free us from sin's tyranny. His sacrifice on the cross broke every chain that bound us to spiritual death and eternal separation from God. The freedom He purchased isn't just for this life—it's freedom that lasts forever.

As we honor our military heroes today, let us also honor the Hero of Calvary. Both freedoms demand our gratitude and our commitment to live as free people, not returning to the bondage from which we've been delivered.

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Small Steps to Big Faith #RTTBROS #Nightlight

Small Steps To Big Faith  #RTTBROS #Nightlight

Small Steps, Big Faith

"Better is the end of a thing than the beginning thereof: and the patient in spirit is better than the proud in spirit." - Ecclesiastes 7:8 (KJV)

In our walk with God, we often fall into the trap of perfectionism. We hear tales of great Christian leaders who spent hours in fervent prayer at dawn, and we think, "I could never measure up to that." This mindset can paralyze us, preventing us from taking even the smallest steps in our spiritual journey. As the saying goes, "The perfect is often the enemy of the good."

Consider the act of prayer. We may envision the ideal prayer life as rising at 4 AM and communing with God for hours on end. While this practice can be admirable, it's not the only way to cultivate a meaningful relationship with our Heavenly Father. By setting such a lofty standard, we may discourage ourselves from praying at all.

Instead, let's focus on progress, not perfection. The good – a simple, heartfelt conversation with God each day – is far better than the perfect that never materializes. Start small: offer a sentence or two of gratitude, petition, or praise. As you build this habit, you may find yourself naturally expanding your prayers, perhaps even engaging in short bursts of communication with God throughout your day.

Remember, God doesn't expect perfection from us. He desires a genuine relationship, one that grows and deepens over time. In Ecclesiastes, we're reminded that the patient in spirit is better than the proud. This patience applies not only to our circumstances but also to our spiritual growth.

Take encouragement from the words of Jesus in Matthew 17:20 (KJV): "If ye have faith as a grain of mustard seed, ye shall say unto this mountain, Remove hence to yonder place; and it shall remove; and nothing shall be impossible unto you." Even the smallest act of faith can lead to tremendous growth and change.

Today, challenge yourself to take one small step in your spiritual disciplines. Whether it's prayer, Bible reading, or acts of service, remember that consistency in small things often leads to significant transformation. Don't let the illusion of perfection hinder your progress. Embrace the good, and watch as God works in and through your faithful efforts.

Prayer: Heavenly Father, help us to overcome the paralysis of perfectionism. Grant us the wisdom to start small and the patience to grow steadily in our relationship with You. May we find joy in the journey of faith, trusting that You are pleased with our sincere efforts, no matter how humble they may seem. In Jesus' name, Amen.

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Wisdom For The Weary #Nightlight #RTTBROS

Wisdom For The Weary   #Nightlight #RTTBROS 

Above All Else: The Focus That Changed Wilberforce

 If ye then be risen with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ sitteth on the right hand of God. 2 Set your affection on things above, not on things on the earth.

3 For ye are dead, and your life is hid with Christ in God. 4 When Christ, who is our life, shall appear, then shall ye also appear with him in glory

William Wilberforce stood at the window of his London home, staring across the Thames with weary eyes. For twenty years, he had fought to abolish the slave trade in the British Empire, and for twenty years, he had failed. Stacks of parliamentary papers cluttered his desk, and letters from both supporters and fierce opponents filled his drawers. His health was deteriorating, and doubts clouded his mind.

Throughout his life, Wilberforce was deeply influenced by Scripture broadly. His 1797 book "A Practical View of Christianity" revealed his theological foundations, while his journal entries and letters demonstrated how biblical principles regarding human dignity and justice guided his political career. He was especially moved by passages about loving one's neighbor, caring for the oppressed, and the equality of all people before God.

As a young, ambitious politician with wealth and social connections, he had experienced a profound spiritual conversion at age 25. His old friend, former slave-ship captain John Newton, now a minister and author of "Amazing Grace", had counseled him not to abandon politics but to use his position for God's purposes.

Though he never specifically cited it, the powerful truth in Colossians 3 perfectly summarizes Wilberforce's transformed focus in life. While his peers pursued political power, wealth, and status, he set his mind on higher things, the dignity of every human being created in God's image. This heavenly focus made him willing to endure earthly scorn.

Year after year, he introduced anti-slavery bills. Year after year, they were defeated. His political opponents mocked him as a religious fanatic. Business interests slandered him as an economic saboteur. Even some friends suggested he choose a more achievable cause.

"Perhaps I should focus elsewhere," Wilberforce confided to his journal one night. "Twenty years of failure wears on a man's soul."

Many times when he opened his Bible. Those words renewed his resolve. His focus wasn't meant to be on immediate results but on faithfulness to his calling. He wasn't working primarily for earthly approval but for heavenly purposes.

With refreshed determination, Wilberforce continued the fight. His heavenly focus gave him earthly perseverance. In 1807, the Slave Trade Act finally passed, abolishing the slave trade throughout the British Empire. Twenty-six years later, just three days before his death in 1833, he received news that slavery itself would be abolished across the British colonies.

Wilberforce's life embodies the wisdom of Paul's words in Colossians. By setting his mind on things above, he changed things on earth. By living as though his true life was hidden with Christ, he found courage to face opposition. By focusing on heavenly glory rather than earthly acclaim, he left a legacy that transformed millions of lives.

Like Wilberforce, we face choices daily about where to set our minds. When we focus on things above, we gain the perspective and perseverance to fulfill our calling below.

Prayer: Lord, like Wilberforce, help me fix my focus on heavenly values rather than earthly validation. Remind me that my true identity is hidden with Christ, giving me courage to pursue Your purposes even when progress seems slow. May my heavenly focus produce earthly faithfulness. Amen.

#WilberforceWisdom #PerseverantFocus #HeavenlyPerspective

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Pocket ofEncouragment #Nightlight #RTTBROS

Pocket ofEncouragment #Nightlight #RTTBROS 

"Found in His Pocket: Unexpected Encouragement"

"Blessed are ye, when men shall revile you, and persecute you, and shall say all manner of evil against you falsely, for my sake. Rejoice, and be exceeding glad: for great is your reward in heaven: for so persecuted they the prophets which were before you." - Matthew 5:11-12 (KJV)

On that fateful evening of April 14, 1865, as President Abraham Lincoln settled into his seat at Ford's Theatre, he carried with him more than just the weight of a nation recently emerged from civil war. In the pocket of his coat was a small newspaper clipping—a review praising his leadership and character.

This simple paper treasure speaks volumes about the burden Lincoln bore. Throughout his presidency, perhaps no American leader had been more viciously attacked or cruelly caricatured. Political cartoons depicted him as an ape, a tyrant, and a bumbling fool. Newspapers openly called for his defeat, his disgrace, and sometimes even his death. The North criticized him for moving too slowly on emancipation, while the South reviled him as a destroyer of their way of life.

Yet amid this storm of criticism, Lincoln had carefully preserved this small token of encouragement. We can imagine how this positive voice among the chorus of critics must have fortified his spirit during dark hours when doubt threatened to overwhelm him.

What comfort this clipping must have provided—a reminder that not everyone viewed his work with scorn. How strengthening to know that someone recognized the wisdom and compassion that guided his difficult decisions. In a presidency marked by unbearable pressures, this small affirmation represented a light in the darkness.

The presence of this clipping in Lincoln's pocket reminds us of a profound truth: even the strongest among us need encouragement. Even those called to the highest service require reminders that their work matters.

In our own lives, we often face criticism and misunderstanding when we stand for what is right. Like Lincoln, we may find ourselves vilified for decisions made with the purest intentions. In those moments, we must treasure the affirmations God sends our way—whether through a kind word, an unexpected note, or the quiet assurance of Scripture.

Today, consider whose life you might touch with words of encouragement. Your affirming message might become someone's treasured keepsake—perhaps even carried close to their heart during their darkest hour.

 

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Kingdom Authority #RTTBROS #Nightlight

Kingdom Authority #Nightlight #RTTBROS 

 God's Ambassadors of Authority

 2 Corinthians 5:20

"Now then we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God did beseech you by us: we pray you in Christ's stead, be ye reconciled to God."

When someone grants you power of attorney, you gain the legal authority to act on their behalf in specific situations. Similarly, God has bestowed upon believers a supernatural authority to represent Him in this world.

As ambassadors for Christ, we carry the weighty responsibility of representing the Kingdom of God in our communities. This means being so immersed in God's Word that our speech naturally reflects what God would say in any given situation. Our authority isn't meant for self-promotion or personal gain, but rather to honor and expand God's Kingdom.

James reminds us in his epistle: "Ye have not, because ye ask not. Ye ask, and receive not, because ye ask amiss, that ye may consume it upon your lusts" (James 4:2-3). How often do we misuse the powerful gift of prayer for selfish purposes? Prayer is not merely a tool to fulfill our desires, but a sacred communication with our Heavenly Father.

Today, let us examine our hearts. Are we exercising our God-given authority as faithful ambassadors, or are we using it to pursue our own agendas? May we align our prayers, actions, and words with God's will, understanding that we represent not ourselves, but the King of Kings.

#AmbassadorsForChrist #KingdomAuthority #PrayerWarrior

 

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Looking For Love #Nightlight #RTTBROS

Looking For Love #Nightlight #RTTBROS 

 How To Find Limitless Love

"But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us." - Romans 5:8 (KJV)

Have you ever felt that gnawing emptiness? That space within your heart that seems impossible to fill? We search for it in the eyes of lovers, in the approval of friends, in the embrace of family—that perfect, complete, unconditional love. Yet time and again, we find ourselves disappointed, for we ask of humanity what only divinity can provide.

The human heart, wonderful though it is, remains finite. Our love for one another, though precious, comes with limitations, expectations, and conditions that we often cannot articulate. We enter relationships carrying silent scripts of how we wish to be loved, and when others fail to follow these unspoken lines, disappointment settles in our souls.

This disappointment isn't because others don't love us—it's because we've mistaken their role. We've asked them to be God.

"The Lord thy God in the midst of thee is mighty; he will save, he will rejoice over thee with joy; he will rest in his love, he will joy over thee with singing." - Zephaniah 3:17 (KJV)

Imagine that—the Creator of all things rejoicing over you with singing! This is love without reservation, without condition, without end. This is the love your soul truly craves.

When we understand that God alone can love us completely—knowing our darkest thoughts yet cherishing us still—we free our human relationships from impossible expectations. We can receive the imperfect love of others with gratitude rather than disappointment, for we no longer ask them to fill what only God can fill.

"For I am persuaded, that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come, nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord." - Romans 8:38-39 (KJV)

Today, rest in this truth: You are already perfectly loved. Not because you earned it, not because you found someone who understands exactly how to love you, but because the One who created love itself has set His affection upon you. Let this divine love fill the spaces in your heart, and watch how it transforms your expectations of human relationships.

You are not waiting to be properly loved. You already are.

#PerfectLove #DivineAffection #HeartsFulfilled

 

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Power Prayer: Unlocking Heaven's Gates #RTTBROS #Nightlight

 Power Prayer: Unlocking Heaven's Gates #RTTBROS #Nightlight 

 "The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much." - James 5:16b (KJV)

Prayer often becomes a routine—items to check off a spiritual to-do list rather than genuine conversations with the Creator of the universe. Many of us find ourselves simply going through the motions, reciting familiar phrases without truly engaging our hearts. Yet Scripture reminds us that prayer isn't merely a religious duty—it's our direct line to God's power and presence. It's a mighty spiritual weapon that transforms circumstances, heals hearts, and brings divine power into our daily lives.

What inspires me is the story of that small Georgia church that rediscovered the power of praying specifically for the lost. Their revival began when they shifted their focus from routine requests to fervent intercession for specific people who needed Christ. I find myself asking: What might God do in my life—in our church—if we recaptured this kind of passionate, focused prayer? When we pray with purpose and persistence, we open ourselves to witnessing God's transformative work in ways we never thought possible.

I've come to understand that prayer should be my response to every life situation. James 5:13 asks, "Is any among you afflicted? let him pray. Is any merry? let him sing psalms." Whether I'm struggling through hardship or celebrating joy, prayer connects me to God's power. Like a smartphone without a signal, I may have all the features of spiritual life—Bible knowledge, church attendance, good morals—but without the connection of prayer, my spiritual power remains dormant. Prayer isn't just an app on my spiritual smartphone; it's the cellular connection that makes everything else function.

What strikes me most about Elijah's example in James 5:17-18 is that he was "a man subject to like passions as we are." He wasn't superhuman or free from weaknesses. Yet through prayer, this ordinary man controlled the weather for three and a half years! I find tremendous encouragement in this. My confidence in prayer doesn't come from my perfection but from God's power. He responds to faith, not flawlessness. Even when I feel inadequate, I remember that God can work miracles through imperfect people who pray with sincere hearts.

I was convicted by Charles Spurgeon's words: "Prayer pulls the rope below and the great bell rings above in the ears of God. Some scarcely stir the bell, for they pray so languidly; others give but an occasional pluck at the rope; but he who wins with heaven is the man who grasps the rope boldly and pulls continuously, with all his might." How often I've been guilty of merely giving an occasional pluck at the rope rather than grasping it boldly and pulling with all my might! Lord, teach me to pray with persistence that moves heaven.

Like Hudson Taylor setting sail while praying for wind, I understand the importance of combining faith with action—setting my sails in expectation while praying with conviction. Keeping our prayers specific rather than offering vague generalizations transforms our prayer life. As Hebrews 4:16 encourages us, "Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need." God invites us to approach Him with confidence, bringing our specific requests before His throne.

The phrase "effectual fervent" in James 5:16 means to display activity and put forth power. My prayers should never be passive or perfunctory—they should be passionate and persistent. I'm challenged by E.M. Bounds' assertion that "What the Church needs today is not more machinery or better, not new organizations or more novel methods, but men whom the Holy Ghost can use—men of prayer, men mighty in prayer." I want to be counted among those whom the Holy Spirit can use in powerful ways through prayer. I want to be mighty in prayer.

I've been particularly moved by the story of Josh McDowell, who prayed about his uncertainty regarding his mother's salvation. His seemingly impossible prayer was answered in a remarkable way that brought him peace. This reminds me that God can answer prayers I don't even know how to articulate—prayers that seem impossible from a human perspective. As Jesus promised in Matthew 7:7-8, "Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you: For every one that asketh receiveth; and he that seeketh findeth; and to him that knocketh it shall be opened."

The image of the elderly man Jack, who died with his head resting on the chair where he imagined Jesus sitting, deeply touches my heart. Prayer isn't a complicated formula—it's simply having a conversation with Jesus, as if He were sitting in the chair opposite me. Like Jack, I want to lean into prayer throughout my life, finding in that spiritual connection all I need for every circumstance. I'm reminded of 1 Thessalonians 5:17, which simply instructs us to "Pray without ceasing." This doesn't mean I must be on my knees 24/7, but rather that I maintain a constant attitude of communion with God, bringing everything before Him.

We must each commit to revitalizing our prayer lives. Consider: What specific situations do we substitute worry for prayer? What needs to change in our daily schedules to make room for meaningful prayer? If we truly believed the "prayer of faith" could move mountains, what would we pray about differently? Lord, help us move from routine, perfunctory prayers to "effectual fervent" prayers that availeth much. May our prayer lives be characterized not by obligation but by passion, not by doubt but by confidence, and not by selfishness but by intercession for others who desperately need Your touch.