April 22, 2026

Avoid Fruitless Arguments

As tempting as it may be, we need to refrain from arguing with others. Because we are in a time when evil beings present themselves as light, we must be cautious about how we speak to others and abstain from getting into a verbal match, because we cannot win. If a demon controls the person you have a problem with, they are more powerful and more cunning than you because they were once part of God’s kingdom and know how things work; our skills are very primitive in comparison. That’s why Jude cautions us not to bash them and use fewer words to rebuke them. Even Jesus refrained from arguing with Satan when he was being tempted in the wilderness, and when Peter used words that came from Satan, Jesus only said, “Get the behind me Satan.” Even Michael the archangel withheld his tongue when disputing with Satan.

Yet Michael the archangel, when contending with the devil he disputed about the body of Moses, durst not bring against him a railing accusation, but said, The Lord rebuke thee. Jude 1:9

We are part of the kingdom of God, and it is beneath us to engage in a war of words with the enemy, especially when he is using a fleshly being as a weapon. Whatever the argument is about, it’s not worth losing your dignity over. Remember, you represent Jesus in all your dealings, so keep your responses short but composed so you are not corrupted. 

April 20, 2026

Pray for discernment before reading!

Reading Jude in context makes it seem as if the evil among us might be those angelic beings cast down from times of old. We know they are here, but we think they are invisible, but are they? Could these entities, that live here, disguise themselves as humans? If you think about it, our bodies are simply the containers of our souls. Could these empty vessels be part of our everyday lives, and some of them standing in church pulpits? Are they the false teachers Peter warned us about? The heading for this section of my Bible is labeled “Judgment on False Teachers,” but Jude doesn’t mention them, though it is likely what he is talking about. The reason I say this is because, look at this verse:

For there are certain men crept in unawares, who were before of old ordained to this condemnation, ungodly men, turning the grace of our God into lasciviousness, and denying the only Lord God, and our Lord Jesus Christ. Jude 1:4

“Who were before of old ordained to condemnation,” we know that those who were cast out of heaven are of old and are ordained for condemnation! Jude is warning us not to mess with these beings because they are very powerful. We need to read our Bibles with discernment, and sometimes we need to ignore the headings because those were likely added later and not part of the actual letters.

April 18, 2026

To the followers of Christ: One of my favorite things to do is spend time at the beach. What I like most about it is walking, looking for seashells, praying, and worshipping God. It brings me so much joy. Sometimes I have full conversations with our Creator. Did you know that God uses His creation to speak, at least He does for me, because He sees that I’m tuned into it. I was considering doing a series on “The Kingdom of God Is Within.” It caught my attention in Luke 17 and piqued my curiosity. So, while walking on the beach, I asked God if I should. It was then that I began seeing Sheepshead fish near the water’s edge. We know that Jesus called his followers sheep. After doing a quick search, I found that there’s no other verse that mentions the kingdom of God is within; Jesus does mention that the kingdom of God is near. In that, I believe he was telling people they were experiencing the kingdom through his presence. I’ve concluded that my next series may focus on the followers of Jesus, since the fish and sheep are symbolic of Christians. I’m still sorting it out, so for the time being, I will go back to concentrating my efforts on catching and bringing in the people who call themselves Christian, but lack a relationship with Jesus; the ones he calls lukewarm that believe they are saved but continue a life in the world. That’s been my mission all along anyway. 

My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me: John 10:27

April 17, 2026

The Parables Of Jesus: 38 

The Parable of the Ten Minas 

It was near Passover, and the disciples thought Jesus would begin his reign then. Unfortunately, they had the wrong idea of how he works. So, to give them an example of what was going to happen, he told them about the nobleman who was to receive his kingdom and then return to his home for a time. The people of the kingdom hated him, but after receiving his kingdom, he put ten people in charge and gave them ten pounds each to invest and to give him a good return on his money. One doubled his money, one increased it by half, and one gained nothing. The one that increased the most, he gave ten cities to rule over, the one that increased by five, he gave five cities, but the one who had no increase, he took it away and gave it to the one who increased by ten. For the ones in the kingdom who hated him, he had them slain. 

We are the people of the kingdom. If you have a gift and do not use it, it will be taken away from you and given to someone diligent in their efforts to increase the kingdom. To those who hate Jesus, well, they will find out one day how wrong they were. How hard must it be to live a life without Jesus? You have the enemy vouching for you daily, but when he comes to collect on what you owe him, you will have no one to turn to. If you don’t know Jesus, turn to him before it’s too late.  

For I say unto you, That unto every one which hath shall be given; and from him that hath not, even that he hath shall be taken away from him. But those mine enemies, which would not that I should reign over them, bring hither, and slay them before me. Luke 19:26-27

April 16, 2026

The Parables Of Jesus: 37 

The Pharisee and the Tax Collector 

We must stop comparing ourselves to others. The Pharisee thought he was more righteous than the tax collector. While praying in the temple, he wanted to be seen rather than having a humble heart and pray in private. The words of his prayer condemned the penitent tax collector, and rather than look at his own sins, he acted as though he were more righteous than the tax collector. In the parable, Jesus rejected the prayers of the Pharisee, and he condemned him for his self-righteous behavior. 

If you feel you must make a comparison, compare yourself to Jesus, and you will see your filthiness. Humble yourself before God and never make the mistake of seeing yourself as more righteous than others. It’s good to do what’s pleasing to God, but it is not good to brag about your obedience, especially when it is to belittle others. Stay humble, my friends.

And the publican, standing afar off, would not lift up so much as his eyes unto heaven, but smote upon his breast, saying, God be merciful to me a sinner. I tell you, this man went down to his house justified rather than the other: for every one that exalteth himself shall be abased; and he that humbleth himself shall be exalted. Luke 18:13-14

April 15, 2026

The Parables Of Jesus: 36  

The Persistent Widow 

Jesus told the story of the widow who came to an unjust judge to avenge her of her enemy, but the judge ignored her pleading. However, she kept insisting that he take up her cause and badgered him constantly. Finally, he ruled in her favor so she would leave him alone. 

Yet because this widow troubleth me, I will avenge her, lest by her continual coming she weary me. Luke 18:5

We must consider that our prayers will be answered, because we have a just judge who hears our pleadings and will avenge us. However, we must not let up until we get an answer. We are living in a time where everything is bent toward evil, and we must constantly pray for God to avenge us against an enemy who seeks to devour us. I couldn’t help but notice that in Luke, Jesus told this parable right after he explained what would happen when he returned. Was it meant to be together, since it was in the previous chapter? If it was told at the same time as Jesus explained what would happen at the end of time, then we must raise our voices to heaven and plead with him to come quickly and hasten his return. Something important to remember is not to dwell on the negativity around us; focus on Jesus and his goodness, and reset your mind to think of all the blessings set before you. God is good and hears our prayers. Don’t stop until you get your answer.  

And shall not God avenge his own elect, which cry day and night unto him, though he bear long with them? Luke 18:7

April 14, 2026

The Parables Of Jesus: 35

The Rich Man and Lazarus 

A quick recap of the story of the rich man and Lazarus: Lazarus was a poor beggar who was covered with sores and sat at the gate of a rich man's home, hoping for a few crumbs from the man's table. The beggar died and was carried to the bosom of Abraham. Shortly after that, the rich man died and went to hell. The rich man could see Lazarus and Abraham from where he was and begged for Lazarus to bring him a drop of water to cool his tongue. He couldn't because of the great gulf between them, making it impossible. Then the rich man requested that Lazarus return to warn his brothers so they might turn from their wickedness and not end up in hell, where he was. The request was denied because they have Moses and the prophets, and if they don't listen to them, why would they listen to Lazarus?

It is suspected that the rich man had an evil desire to see Lazarus tormented like he was. Because Lazarus was a good man, he was no longer tormented and was now protected, and his soul was abiding in heaven. The way you are now is the way you will enter the everlasting; make sure the blood of Jesus covers you through the gift of salvation.

"The heart that is filled with rage against God is filled with rage against the people of God.—— There is a day coming when those that now hate and despise the people of God would gladly receive kindness from them." Matthew Henry

In this parable, Jesus confirms that once your soul leaves your body, it goes to either heaven or hell; there is no such thing as soul sleep or purgatory, and no amount of prayers from the saints will change your location. Turn to Jesus now while you still can, or you will be tormented forever. 

But Abraham said, Son, remember that thou in thy lifetime receivedst thy good things, and likewise Lazarus evil things: but now he is comforted, and thou art tormented. Luke 16:25

April 13, 2026

The Parables Of Jesus: 34

The Dishonest Manager 

This parable was very hard to understand because it didn’t make sense. So, I used John Gill’s commentary to help me understand it and explain it better. 

A rich man was firing his manager for mismanaging his funds. So the manager, worried about what he would do once he was out of a job, went to all the rich man’s debtors and cut all their bills in half so they would be willing to hire him when he was no longer employed. The manager commended him for doing well for himself.

The rich man is God.

The manager or steward is the Pharisees.

The wasted goods are the false glosses put upon the scriptures.

The debtors are the Gentiles.

The bill that was cut in half is the law.

If we read it with these things in mind, it looks a little different. 

God employed the Pharisees, but they mismanaged the law he had given them, so he fired them. So, to continue in that type of job, because they didn’t want to do serious labor, they broke down the law so it could be more easily attainable by the Gentiles. God commended them for doing good for themselves.

He that is faithful in that which is least is faithful also in much: and he that is unjust in the least is unjust also in much. Luke 16:10

April 12, 2026

The Parables Of Jesus: 33

The Prodigal Son

Most of us know the story of the prodigal son, but here is a refresher. 

A man had two sons. The younger one wanted his father to give him a portion of his inheritance so he could go out into the world and do what he wanted. In doing so, he squandered what he was given, ended up with nothing, and found himself feeding pigs to have food. He finally got his mind right, realized that his dad’s servants ate better than he did, and decided to go back home. His dad met him with open arms and planned a feast to welcome him home. His brother heard of the feast and was jealous because he had never been given a feast. His dad explained that all he had was his inheritance and that he was happy that his brother, who was once dead, is now alive. 

And he said unto him, Son, thou art ever with me, and all that I have is thine. It was meet that we should make merry, and be glad: for this thy brother was dead, and is alive again; and was lost, and is found. Luke 15:31-32

Most parents love their children, even the prodigal, but those who have stayed close to the family and participated in their lives are the ones who will inherit all that they have to offer. However, it is always a joy when the prodigal comes home. 

When the lost come to God, He rejoices. No one is too far gone to receive His mercy. He welcomes everyone because we are all His children. 

April 11, 2026

The Parables Of Jesus: 32

The Lost Coin

The story of the lost coin gives us a glimpse into the heart of Jesus and his love for us. The heavens erupt in rejoicing when just one sinner repents and turns to him. We are more important to him than we can imagine. It was about 52 years ago that I repented and turned my life over to Jesus; and though I was given a guardian angel at birth, the whole choir sang for joy when I turned my life over to him, and they have protected me ever since. Can you imagine it? We are dearly loved by our Savior, so much so that he gave us the Holy Spirit to accompany us on our earthly journey and to intercede for us to the Father. We were that lost coin of great value, and he sought us until he found us. Sing a song of praise and give thanks to him because he is good and his mercy endures forever.

Either what woman having ten pieces of silver, if she lose one piece, doth not light a candle, and sweep the house, and seek diligently till she find it? And when she hath found it, she calleth her friends and her neighbours together, saying, Rejoice with me; for I have found the piece which I had lost. Likewise, I say unto you, there is joy in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner that repenteth. Luke 15:10

April 10, 2026

The Parables Of Jesus: 31

The Invited Guests

This story seems to be more of wise instruction rather than a parable, but it is something that is repeated throughout scripture, so we should take notice and follow Jesus’ advice. 

When thou art bidden of any man to a wedding, sit not down in the highest room; lest a more honourable man than thou be bidden of him; Luke 14:8

It is likely that you won’t have to worry about where you sit at a wedding nowadays because the hosts usually reserve your seat for you. It’s humbling when you expect to sit near the wedding party or the hosts, only to find out you aren’t as important as you think you are and they’ve seated you in the back. However, on any occasion where you are free to seat yourself to dine, be modest and find a seat that is the least desirable so you are not embarrassed by the hosts moving you because they want to sit near someone more important to them. If they move you near them, then you have don’t the right thing. 

For whosoever exalteth himself shall be abased; and he that humbleth himself shall be exalted. Luke 14:11

April 9, 2026

The Parables Of Jesus: 30

The Barren Fig Tree

When Jesus said, “I come not to bring peace but sword” he wasn’t kidding. Many look at Jesus as passive but some of his words cause fear. We may not need to fear what the world can do, but we should fear what God can do to us eternally. If you aren’t barring fruit necessary for His purpose, He might take you out. Here is scripture that causes me to shudder because Jesus doesn’t stutter:

Then said he unto the dresser of his vineyard, Behold, these three years I come seeking fruit on this fig tree, and find none: cut it down; why cumbereth it the ground? Luke 13:7

In this instance Jesus is talking to Israel and Judah, but we can take him at his word that if we are not a fruitful part of his kingdom, we should be concerned for ourselves. Praying the sinners prayer and being baptized is not the end of our responsibility, it is only the beginning. We must turn from our sinful ways and transform into the likeness of Jesus. We may not be completely sinless, but it should be our goal. If you go to church, you are that fig planted in the vineyard where the ground is fertile, so you had better hope the vinedresser keeps praying for you so you are not cut down.

And he answering said unto him, Lord, let it alone this year also, till I shall dig about it, and dung it: And if it bear fruit, well: and if not, then after that thou shalt cut it down. Luke 13:8-9

April 8, 2026

The Parables Of Jesus: 29

The Parable Of The Rich Fool

A man asked Jesus to tell his brother to divide his inheritance with him, but he refused, telling him he wasn’t a judge or divider over him. Then he told the parable of the rich fool who had an abundance of crops and thought to himself that he would tear down his barns and build new ones to hold all of it. 

And I will say to my soul, Soul, thou hast much goods laid up for many years; take thine ease, eat, drink, and be merry. But God said unto him, Thou fool, this night thy soul shall be required of thee: then whose shall those things be, which thou hast provided? So is he that layeth up treasure for himself, and is not rich toward God. Luke 12:19-21

The point is that you never know when your soul will be collected, so you should cultivate the things of God rather than attend to worldly affairs because one is more profitable than the other in the hereafter. We should be mindful of who will ultimately take our soul. When our soul is divided from the body, where will you go? Who will collect your soul? Will it be the devil or God? Set your mind on things above.

If ye then be risen with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ sitteth on the right hand of God. Set your affection on things above, not on things on the earth. For ye are dead, and your life is hid with Christ in God. Colossians 3:1-3 

April 7, 2026

The Parables Of Jesus: 28

The Friend Seeking Bread 

The disciples had just asked Jesus to teach them how to pray. In his response, he taught them what we now call The Lord's Prayer. It wasn't a standard prayer because the gospels were slightly different, but more of an outline to give us direction. Instead of the flowery prayers of the J*ws, which were mostly praise, adoration, and doxology, The Lord's Prayer outlines mostly petitions and requests. That doesn't mean we should stop our praises and adoration; it means we should include our petitions and requests. 

In teaching the importance of asking the Father for what we need, he shared with them the parable of a friend who had a friend in need of bread for his traveling. It was late in the evening, and the man had no bread to give him, so he went to his neighbor's house after he was already in bed and asked for bread for his friend. Still, the man didn't want to wake his family, so he told him to go away, but the man kept knocking and aggravating him, so he got up and gave him bread.  

Jesus, who is God, is telling us to keep asking for what we need and to intercede for others until we receive an answer. Jesus makes it clear that it's okay to ask the Father for things and that we should do so. However, if you really want to increase your faith and see your life change, ask Him to deepen your communication with the Holy Spirit, because you already have Him if you are saved, and hearing Him more clearly is truly a gift. 

If ye then, being evil, know how to give good gifts unto your children: how much more shall yourheavenly Father give the Holy Spirit to them that ask him? Luke 11:13

April 6, 2026

The Parables Of Jesus: 27

The Good Samaritan 

A lawyer challenged Jesus by saying, “Master, what shall I do to inherit eternal life?” Jesus answered him by asking him what the law says.

And he answering said, Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy strength, and with all thy mind; and thy neighbour as thyself. Luke 10:27

Jesus told him he answered correctly. Then the lawyer asked, “Who is your neighbor?” He was trying to catch him saying something illegal. Then Jesus blew his mind by telling the parable of the Good Samaritan. Here is a summary of the story:

A J*w fell to robbers on the side of the road between Jerusalem and Jericho and was seriously injured and nearly half dead. A priest came upon him and passed him on the other side of the road. Then a Levite priest came along and also passed by him on the other side. Fortunately for the injured man a Samaritan man, not a J*w, but someone the J*ws detested, came along, and having compassion, bound the mans wounds, put him on his horse and took him to a nearby inn, paying the innkeeper to continue caring for him. 

So, who is our neighbor? Everyone! We must have compassion for other human beings because all people are considered our neighbors. As far as the lawyer goes, he found nothing to charge Jesus with because he didn’t give him instructions that were against the law. 

April 5, 2026

He Is Risen

Nothing thrills my heart more than to write about Jesus! David wrote about him without even knowing it. Psalms 22 points to Jesus’ suffering and dying on the cross. Those who deny him, especially of the J*wish faith, only do so out of ignorance because the words of this song point to Jesus and the words he spoke as he was hanging on the cross. It also depicts the actions of those around him as they divided his clothes and cast lots for them. Even the heckling he received is alluded to by the spectators telling him that if he were the son of God, why didn’t he take himself off the cross? This entire psalm happened during the crucifixion. Some commentators think that he probably recited the whole psalm, if only to himself. 

Take comfort in knowing that when you think God isn’t hearing your prayers, Jesus felt the same way when hanging on the cross. He cried out in pain to his Father, “My God, my God, why hast thou forsaken me?” God turned his eyes away from His son because of our sins, that he bore upon the cross, but once those sins were burned up in the pit of hell, he awakened from the dead. Jesus was resurrected to become our King and Savior. The Old Testament and New Testament agree that Jesus is the Son of God and that He is the Savior of all humanity; we will all bow before Him in reverence, whether we are lost or saved. Feel privileged that God chose you as part of His kingdom. 

All the ends of the world shall remember and turn unto the LORD: and all the kindreds of the nations shall worship before thee. For the kingdom is the LORD'S: and he is the governor among the nations. Psalms 22:27-28