Kathy Howard's Blog: Unshakeable Faith for Life, page 13

On that first Good Friday, three crosses stood on Golgotha. Jesus hung on the middle cross, willing taking the punishment we deserved. On the other crosses, hung two thieves, condemned to die for their own crimes. Three crosses and three men. Two needed salvation. Only the third One could provide it. 

We don’t often contemplate the thieves crucified with Jesus – the criminals on Jesus’ right and left. After all, their condemnation was just. And although the Bible doesn’t tell us much about them, we can learn from them.

What do we know about the thieves crucified with Jesus?

The words Scripture uses to describe these men give us some insight into who they were and why they were crucified. The two different Greek words used in the Gospels to describe them can be translated as thieves, robbers, criminals, malefactors, revolutionaries, and rebels. The Greek word used by Matthew and Mark includes the idea of “plundering by violence.” And Luke’s word choice suggests a person who is an “evil-doer.”

These two men were violent, hardened criminals whom Rome considered a threat to their control. Execution by crucifixion served as a sober deterrent for similar behavior from others. Roman citizens and the upper classes were usually spared this cruel and torturous form of judgment. But Rome used it freely with slaves, the lower classes, and especially those deemed a menace to Roman rule or the social order. 

All four Gospels mention the thieves, but Matthew, Mark, and John only tell us they were crucified along with Jesus. Only Luke records the interaction between the criminals and Jesus. (See Luke 23:32-43.) Since we don’t know their names, we’ll call them “Arrogant” and “Humble” to keep them straight. By law, Arrogant and Humble deserved their fate. Their sin earned them both a brutal physical death and an eternal spiritual penalty. 

Why was Jesus there with the thieves?

Jesus did not deserve the penalty they received, but He hung in their midst. Just as the prophet Isaiah foretold. Just as the Father purposed. 

Therefore I will divide him a portion with the many, and he shall divide the spoil with the strong, because he poured out his soul to death and was numbered with the transgressors; yet he bore the sin of many, and makes intercession for the transgressors. Isaiah 53:12 ESV

Arrogant and Humble were violent men that lived to steal, kill, and destroy. Their lives furthered Satan’s purposes. In contrast, Jesus came to provide full and abundant life to those who would receive it. 

I am the door. If anyone enters by me, he will be saved and will go in and out and find pasture. The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy. I came that they may have life and have it abundantly. John 10:9-10 ESV

How did the thieves respond to Jesus?

Jesus offered abundant life to all – even to Arrogant and Humble. But, Arrogant flagrantly rejected it. His response reflected the crowd, the soldiers, and the Jewish leaders gathered around the foot of Jesus’ cross. Like them, he suffered from spiritual blindness. He failed to see the truth that hung before him. 

But Humble gladly and graciously accepted the life Jesus offered. He acknowledged his sin, recognized the power and authority of Jesus, and asked Jesus to receive him as a citizen of His kingdom. 

Jesus extended mercy and grace to this humble, repentant thief. Jesus promised Humble that with his physical death, he would be welcomed into “Paradise,” the eternal dwelling place of the righteous. This violent, evil criminal was made clean and new in Christ. (Want to be ready to tell others about Jesus? See “The Romans Road to Salvation” and “Top Ten Verses for Evangelism.”)   

6 Lessons from Arrogant and HumbleWe all deserve eternal death – Like Arrogant and Humble, every person who has ever lived is a sinner. None is righteous, no, not one; no one understands; no one seeks God (Romans 3:10-11 ESV). No matter how society judges the severity of our sin, compared to the holiness of God, we are all violent, hardened criminals. Our sin has earned the death penalty. For the wages of sin is death (Romans 6:23a ESV).We can do nothing to save ourselves – The humble thief was securely nailed to a cross. He could do nothing. He could not walk down the aisle or be baptized or join the church or perform good works. All he could do was receive Jesus’ gift of eternal life. Humble came with empty hands and a repentant and believing heart. For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, not a result of works, so that no one may boast. (Ephesians 2:8-9 ESV)Jesus died for every sinner – The two criminals represent the worst of humanity. These evil men violently took what they wanted. No one, no matter how grievous their sin, is beyond the grace of Jesus. He willing suffered the most brutal of deaths so He could cover the most heinous of sins. But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us. (Romans 5:8 NIV)Only Jesus can save – The arrogant thief mockingly asked Jesus to prove His kingship by saving Himself and the two thieves (Luke 23:39). Jesus could have easily summoned angels to come to His aid (Matthew 26:53-54). But in saving Himself, humanity would have no hope for eternity. Only by staying on the cross could Jesus provide salvation. He was the perfect substitute sacrifice. His death paid our sin debt. That’s why Jesus is the only way of salvation. And there is salvation in no one else; for there is no other name under heaven given among men by which we must be saved. (Acts 4:12 ESV)Neutrality is not an option – There are only two eternal destinations – life with Jesus in heaven or eternal judgment in hell. We cannot sit on the fence. Failing to choose Jesus is choosing to reject Him. Everyone will choose. And that choice directs our eternity. The humble thief chose Jesus and life. The arrogant thief rejected Jesus, thus choosing eternal condemnation. Whoever believes in him is not condemned, but whoever does not believe stands condemned already because they have not believed in the name of God’s one and only Son. (John 3:18 NIV)Jesus receives humble belief – The humble thief acknowledged his sin. He believed the testimony about Jesus. Jesus was “the King of the Jews” (Luke 23:38), the long-expected Messiah. Humble knew that Jesus’ kingdom was spiritual and eternal, not of this world (John 18:36). And Humble trusted Jesus with his eternity. “Jesus, remember me when you come into your kingdom” (Luke 23:42 ESV). Jesus confirmed Humble’s hope. “Truly, I say to you, today you will be with me in paradise” (Luke 23:43 ESV).

The thieves crucified with Jesus lived similar lives on this earth, but their eternal lives are very different. Even now they are experiencing the results of their last choice. Arrogant rejected Jesus, thus choosing eternal condemnation. Humble believed Jesus and received eternal life. Their choice is every person’s choice. What will you do with Jesus? (For more on this eternal choice, see “How to Know Jesus.”)

6 Lessons to Learn from the Thieves Crucified with Jesus by Kathy Howard.

Ever wonder just how you should apply Scripture to your life? It can be overwhelming. While every passage in the Bible has just one original meaning, the specific application for an individual’s life can be virtually endless. And, the application can change depending on our circumstances and level of spiritual maturity. (For more about

However, God’s Word gives us some guidance about ways God wants to use His truths in our lives. In Paul’s second letter to his spiritual son Timothy, God inspired Paul to write some truths about Scripture that show specific ways God wants to use it in our lives: 

All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness,that the man of God may be complete, equipped for every good work. 2 Timothy 3:16-17 

Four Ways to Apply Scripture

The following are four broad categories for application to guide your time in God’s Word. Each category includes various ways to specifically apply Scripture.

1. Teaching (Doctrine) – What to BELIEVE

God’s Word tells us what we should believe about God and His Kingdom. What we believe about God matters. Right thinking leads to right living. What we believe and how we think reveals itself in our character and behavior. 

Don’t copy the behavior and customs of this world, but let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think. Then you will learn to know God’s will for you, which is good and pleasing and perfect. Romans 12:2 NLT

Our spiritual transformation begins in our minds. As our thinking aligns with God’s thinking the Holy Spirit shapes us more and more into the image of Christ.

As you observe a Bible passage for what you should believe, here are some of the things you can note or record:

Truths about God the Father, God the Son, and God the Holy SpiritTruths about salvationKey truths and spiritual principles – these can be taught in stories, word pictures, comparisons and contrasts, and more. For instance, consider what Jesus’ statement, “I am the bread of life” in John 6:35 teaches us about Jesus.2. Reproof (rebuke) – When to REPENT

A reproof or rebuke reveals a need for repentance. It reveals something that’s wrong in our lives like a behavior that goes against God’s holy character. In these cases, God wants us to stop what we are doing or where we are going.

As you read and observe a Bible passage, look for things like negative commands or negative examples. For instance, Ephesians 4:25 commands us to “put away falsehood.” And Peter’s denial of Jesus on the night He was arrested serves as an example for us of what not to do!

3. Correction (obedience in the right direction) – What to OBEY

Biblical correction is different than rebuke. Rather than stopping wrong behavior, correction is meant to instill right behavior. To get us going in the right direction and to foster behavior that pleases God. 

As you read and observe a Bible passage, look for positive commands and positive examples in biblical narrative. For instance, “Submit to one another in love” (Ephesians 5:21) is a positive command. And Peter’s obedience to go to the home of the Gentile Cornelius to share the Gospel is a positive example (Acts 10). I felt it only fair to also share a positive example of our friend Peter! 

4. Training (spiritual growth) – Where to SUBMIT 

God uses Scripture to shape our character and underlying attitudes. He can do this by adjusting our beliefs, building our trust in God, purifying our character, instilling humility, growing in holiness, and so much more.

As you read and observe a passage, ask the Holy Spirit to be your teacher, to show you how He wants to use God’s truths in your life. Then the hard part is submitting to the Spirit’s work because it often involves trials, rebuke, and correction. But we must allow God to do His work.

Some General Helps for Better Bible Study

Before we can apply a Bible study passage, we need to observe it to see what’s there and interpret God’s original meaning. Th following are some resources to help you do just that!

4 Tips for Handling Difficult PassagesThe 4 R Bible Study Method for Everyday UseVideo Teaching on the 4 R Bible Study Method4 Tips to Help You Understand the Bible10 Observation Tips for Better Bible Study

4 Ways You Can Apply Scripture to Your Life by Kathy Howard.

Every relationship needs time together to grow and deepen. A Christian’s relationship with God is no different. We need to spend time with God to know Him better, to hear His heart, and to foster intimacy with our Savior.

The term “quiet time” is commonly used of this relationship-building time that Christians spend one-on-one with God in prayer, Bible reading, and Bible study. Jesus set the example for us. He regularly got away alone to spend time with His Heavenly Father. Most of us want – even long – to foster this relationship, but sometimes we aren’t sure how to make it happen.

Today’s busy lifestyle makes regular time with God challenging, but it can be done with planning and commitment. See  “8 Tips for Moving Quiet Time from ‘Want To’ to ‘Get To'” for help in making quiet time a reality.

So, once you’ve decided to spend time with God regularly, what’s next? What does a quiet time look like? How can we get the most out of the time we do have to spend with God? The following tips can be utilized no matter how much time you have. Or simply use just those tips you find helpful.

11 Tips for Spending Regular Quality Time with God

11 #tips for spending quality #TimeWithGod
Click To Tweet

Establish a regular place and time – We are creatures of habit. If we know when and where we will meet with God daily we are much more likely to do it. Build it into your daily schedule. If this is new for you, start small, commit to it and God will grow it.Organize your “tool” box – Gather your tools (Bible, reading plan, journal, pen, etc.) and keep them together in your designated spot so you’ll always be prepared. I’ve found having a reading plan greatly increases the chance of me staying in the Word regularly. Without a plan, reading stays haphazard at best. Here are several different plans that would take you through the year.Minimize Distractions –  Though it’s not possible to eliminate them all, we can take steps to help maintain our focus. Email and social media are my biggest distractions. I had to determine not to open my laptop until after my quiet time. What competes for your attention the most?Start with prayer – Ask God to speak to you and help you understand His Word today. Thank Him for meeting with you.Begin to read the Bible – Remember your purpose is to communicate with God. The Bible is the primary way God speaks to us. Don’t read hastily just to get through the passage. Let God stop you.Meditate on the passage – Meditation is not emptying your mind. It is deep thinking on spiritual truths. As you read, linger over verses that impact you. Ask God questions and “listen” for His answers. These 5 PROBE questions are a great guide to meditate on a passage.Pray as you read – Time with God should be interactive. Respond to God as He speaks to you through His Word. Reading and praying creates a conversation with God.Sit still in God’s presence – We are products of our rushed, busy culture. Unfortunately, this tendency affects our time with God. We often rush through so we can get on with the next thing. I am certainly guilty of this. Commit to purposefully slow down! Sense God’s presence? Then simply sit still and be with Him.Journal – Read with pen in hand. Record what God says to you and how you will respond. Writing can help you stay focused on God and His voice. You can also read your thoughts later to be reminded of something God taught you, an answered prayer, a time you felt His presence, etc. Here are some extra tips on journaling by Rachel Wojo. Memorize – Commit to memorize verses God calls special attention to. Knowing Scripture by heart helps us guard against sin, reminds us of God’s promises, provides guidance, and allows us to meditate on God’s Word anywhere and anytime. These two posts will help: Scripture Memory Tips and 8 Activities to Help You Memorize Scripture. Application – Apply to your life whatever God says to you through prayer and His Word. It may be repentance. It may be a change in behavior. It may be a specific action.An Online Opportunity for Growth

The Enjoy God’s Word Online Bible Study Conference will help you go deeper in your relationship with Jesus. Here are a few of the GREAT BENEFITS:

DEEP DIVE, verse-by-verse study through Romans 8Practical and devotional breakout sessionsVibrant, encouraging communityLifetime access to recorded teachings and resourcesEARLY BIRD PRICE – $39 – ENDS Friday, April 1st

Other posts you may find helpful:

Bible Highlighting for More Effective StudyThe 4 R Bible Study Method

11 Tips for a Quality Quiet Time with God by Kathy Howard.

Struggling to keep hope alive in the middle of a difficult trial? Today on may blog, Grace Fox – my friend and author of the new devotional “Keeping Hope Alive: Devotions for Strength in the Storm ” – shares truth from God’s Word about the hope He alone can give. Welcome Grace!

Storms of life happen. Sometimes they’re quick-lived, but other times they feel relentless—like now. Who would have thought a two-year pandemic would ease just in time for a war to begin? 

Keeping hope alive amidst unceasing wind and waves can be difficult, but it’s the one thing we can’t afford to lose, according to John Maxwell. We can recover from other losses, he says, but “when a man loses hope, there’s nothing to do but bury him.”

One dictionary defines hope as “a feeling of expectation and desire for a certain thing to happen.” But, for Christ’s followers, hope runs deeper than an optimistic outlook or wishful thinking. The Holman Bible Dictionary says hope is a “trustful expectation, particularly with reference to the fulfillment of God’s promises. Biblical hope is the anticipation of a favorable outcome under God’s guidance.”

Biblical hope based on God’s promises bolsters our strength and gives us courage. I found this to be true during every storm I’ve faced, most recently when sitting vigil at my mother’s bedside, when helping my youngest daughter through the last trimester of a high-risk pregnancy, and when praying for my brother’s recovery while he was on a ventilator in ICU. Here are five promises I’ve found especially meaningful and vital to keep hope alive.

5 Biblical Truths that Keep Hope Alive1. God is with us

The biblical character Joseph was betrayed by his brothers, taken as a slave to a foreign country, and imprisoned for a crime he didn’t commit. Caught in a storm that lasted more than a decade, he may have sometimes wondered if God had abandoned him, but that was not the case. Scripture repeatedly says God was with him. (Genesis 39:2-3,21,23)

When wind and waves pummel us, we might feel as though God is nowhere near, but let’s take to heart the words Jesus spoke to His disciples: “I am with you always, to the end of the age.” (Matthew 28:20) We hold onto hope because the truth says we are not alone even when we feel alone. 

2. God is still sovereign

God didn’t wake up one morning, gasp, and wring His hands over the world news. He knew the war was coming and how it would affect the world and you and me. 

Global circumstances are not beyond His control. Neither is the personal situation that breaks our heart. God has plans we cannot understand, and He will accomplish His purposes. “I am God, and there is none like me. Only I can tell you the future before it even happens. Everything I plan will come to pass, for I do whatever I wish” (Isaiah 46:9-10). We have hope because God is still God. 

3. God the Holy Spirit prays for us

Sometimes our circumstances seem so dark and difficult that prayerful words escape us. That’s when we need promises like Romans 8:26-27— “And the Holy Spirit helps us in our weakness. For example, we don’t know what God wants us to pray for. But the Holy Spirit prays for us with groanings that cannot be expressed in words. And the Father who knows all hearts knows what the Spirit is saying, for the Spirit pleads for us believers in harmony with God’s own will.” Hope comes when we rest in the truth that the Spirit covers us in prayer even when we can’t express what’s in our heart. 

4. God will provide for our needs

A plaque on the wall above my writing desk begins with text from Psalm 23: “The Lord is my Shepherd. I lack nothing.” A shepherd’s primary focus is his flock’s well-being, so he’s diligent to make sure his sheep have everything they need to flourish. Psalm 23:1 assures us that our Shepherd has equipped us to survive this wild ride. Need wisdom? We just need to ask in faith believing He’ll give it to us (James 1:5-6). Peace? It’s ours when we give Him our concerns and thank Him for all He has done (Philippians 4:6-7). Strength? It’s ours when we make Him our focus (Isaiah 40:28-31).

5. God will wipe away our tears

This storm shall pass. Someday, somehow, God will bring about a good outcome. No matter what the future holds, He will eventually make everything right. “He will wipe every tear from their eyes, and there will be no more death or sorrow or crying or pain. All these things are gone forever” (Revelation 21:4).

Chuck Swindoll writes, “God keeps His promises. It’s a major part of His immutable nature. He doesn’t hold out hope with nice-sounding words, then renege on what He said He would do. God is neither fickle nor moody. And He never lies. As my own father used to say of people with integrity, ‘His word is His bond.’”

God holds out hope to us through His promises, and we hold onto hope by clinging to those promises. 

More about Grace Fox and her new devotional book.

Grace Fox is a career missionary, popular Bible teacher, and author of 12 books. She’s a member of the “First 5” writing team (P31Ministries), and co-host of the podcast “Your Daily Bible Verse.” Her new devotional Keeping Hope Alive: Devotions for Strength in the Storm is available wherever Christian books are sold. Find out more about Grace and her writing on her website or connect with Grace on Facebook and Instagram.

“Keeping Hope Alive: Devotions for Strength in the Storm“

The storms of life hurl us into uncertainty and leave us longing for rescue. In times like this, we need the hope God’s Word offers, and we need it in snippets our overloaded minds can absorb. Keeping Hope Alive delivers. Ninety brief meditations offer nuggets of encouragement, a sentence prayer, a point to ponder, and a thoughtful quote by someone who’s survived the storm. Its daily messages and beautifully designed full-color interior soothe the troubled soul and remind readers that God is faithful and sovereign in their circumstances.

5 Promises to Keep Hope Alive in Life’s Storms by Kathy Howard.

God wants us to understand His Word. So why do we sometimes struggle with the meaning of a particular Bible passage? And why do sincere believers sometimes reach different interpretations of the same passage? 

Key point: The problem is always on our end, never with the Bible. Every Bible passage has just one meaning – the meaning God originally inspired. It is our job as students of the Bible to find His meaning through proper study techniques. (See “4 R Bible Study Method” for a simple, but solid method for studying Scripture.)

A few reasons for misunderstanding or disagreement

The following are a few of the more common reasons we struggle to understand difficult Bible passages or understand the same passage differently than others.

1. Mishandling 

Sometimes we handle the Scripture incorrectly. For instance, we may take a passage out of its literary context. (See “Do You Misuse Philippians 4:13?” for an example.) Or we may fail to consider the historical-cultural setting or the literary genre. Thankfully, these common mistakes can easily be avoided with the proper study techniques. 

2. Preconceptions

Sometimes we open our Bibles with a set of assumptions. Maybe we’ve heard a passage explained a certain way before and that prejudices our understanding even before we study it for ourselves. Or we may hold to a certain belief – right or wrong – that acts as a filter as we study. For instance, if we hold to a specific end times doctrine, those views will color everything we read about the last days.

3. Vagueness

Sometimes a passage is vague for us. The original audience understood it clearly, but they may have had previous letters or in-person conversations that we lack today. That definitely makes them more difficult Bible passages to understand. Other things, like the distance created by time and culture, can add to the confusion. Finally, some passages are so obscure that even the most educated and sincere scholars don’t agree on the meaning. The good thing is, there are only a few of these kinds of passages and none deal with foundational truths like how we are saved. 

Helpful Strategies for Difficult Bible Passages

There are some things we can do to ensure we come to the best possible understanding of most Bible passage. However, no matter how thorough our study we may still struggle to understand. And we may still disagree with another sincere Bible student. 

1.  Context 

We must keep a passage in its literary context – the surrounding passage, the whole book, and even the whole Bible. Taking a verse out-of-context may be the most common mistake we make when we misunderstand a passage. When you pull back, look for the situation, running arguments, and themes. And consider the Big Story (Meta-narrative) of the Bible. No one part will contradict the whole.

2. Observation

Before we can understand what a passage means, we must see what it says. Observation is the first step of proper Bible study. Bible students act like investigative journalists, noticing things in the text like key words, facts, truths about God, commands, and more. (For more on this see “10 Observations Tips for Better Bible Study.”)

3. Other Scripture

God’s Word is a beautiful, unified whole. When we struggle to understand one part, we can find clarity by reading other passages that deal with the same topic or truths. A good concordance is a useful tool. Here’s a great one.

4. Commentaries

We can also read what trustworthy biblical scholars have written on this topic. But do your own study first and give God a chance to give you understanding through His Spirit.

Want to Learn More on this Topic?

I will be leading a workshop on this topic at the upcoming online conference “Enjoy God’s Word 2022 – Romans 8 Deep Dive.” Not only will I expand on the above points during this 30-minute workshop, I will also be using Romans 7:14-25 as my example. This well-known passage may not mean what you think it does! Early bird tickets for this conference go on sale Wednesday, March 16th, so watch for more information or check it out now!

What Bible passages do you struggle to understand? Which ones do you think are most often misunderstood?

4 Tips for Handling Difficult Bible Passages by Kathy Howard.

Want to live wisely? Then read the book of Proverbs. These timeless sayings are chock-full of biblical wisdom and insight. Proverbs are easy to remember and often fun to say. For instance, men love to quote Proverbs 21:9: “Better to live on a corner of the roof than share a house with a quarrelsome wife.” (Ladies, unfortunately this is sad, but true!)

However, believers today often misunderstand or misuse this ancient form of wisdom writing because it’s a bit odd to our modern ears. So first, let’s take a quick look at what a proverb is. Then we’ll touch on 3 tips to help us better understand proverbs so we can practically apply their godly wisdom to our lives.

What is a proverb?

Proverbs are short, pithy sayings that impart instructional, practical wisdom. They are observations of life stated in memorable ways. Life experience proves these general principles to be “usually true.”

Proverbs are not unique to the Bible. Many ancient cultures made us of this literary device. However, biblical proverbs are unique in that they acknowledge that true wisdom comes from God (Proverbs 1:7) and apply His spiritual principles to everyday life.

The goal of a biblical proverb is to help us make wise, godly choices in life.

How can we better understand Proverbs?

Like the rest of Scripture, the Proverbs must be understood in light of their purpose, literary genre, context, and original meaning (For more help on understanding the Bible see “4 Tips to Help You Understand the Bible” and “How Biblical Genre Impacts Our Understanding.”) Since proverbs are a unique literary style, we cannot interpret them in the same way we do a historical book or an epistle.

Although the tips below are just a tip of the interpretation iceberg, they will get us off to a great start in understanding the Proverbs and applying their wisdom to our lives.

3 Tips to understanding Proverbs:A Proverb is a Principle, Not a Promise

A biblical proverb seeks to apply God’s wisdom to the situations of life. They are guidelines for living, general principles, not promises from God. While generally accurate, they can’t be applied to every possible scenario or specific circumstance. Therefore, they are not guarantees of a certain outcome, but rather pointers for the best chance for success.

“Start children off on the way they should go, and even when they are old they will not turn from it.” Proverbs 22:6

Many of us have known Christian parents who claimed Proverbs 22:6 as a promise and then were disillusioned when a child turned away from God and never returned. This demonstrates how important it is to understand the nature of a proverb: If we follow their wisdom they are generally true, but they don’t guarantee specific outcomes.

A Proverb is Pithy Poetry

A proverb is a saying that encapsulates a broad observation about life. Its primary goal is to state an important, simple truth about life in easy-to-remember terms.

“Wounds from a friend can be trusted, but an enemy multiplies kisses.” Proverbs 27:6

Brief and memorable, this proverb is about something much deeper than flesh wounds and kisses. True friends tell us the truth for our good, even when it hurts. “Enemies” simply tell us what we want to hear or butter us up to get something they want.

Let’s look beyond the figurative language and past the simple, catchy words of a proverb to find the deeper truth.  The practical principle that fosters godly living. Then apply that godly wisdom to our lives.

A Proverb has a Proper Perspective

Ancient standards guide these ancient proverbs. They usually speak of simple desires and basic needs. Yet, often we subconsciously impose our modern, Western mindset and values.

“Whoever gives heed to instruction prospers, and blessed is the one who trusts in the Lord” (Proverbs 16:20).

Just imagine how the influence of our affluent culture can affect our understanding of “prospers” and “blessed.” The typical ancient Israelite considered himself blessed if he had shelter and enough food. Plus, God longs to bless us for our spiritual good!

We could talk a lot more about proverbs. However, if we remember these 3 tips, we will be well on our way to wise living!

Want to read through Proverbs with me?

Beginning Saturday, March 12th, we will be working our way through Proverbs in the Facebook group I lead, “Reading the Bible Together.” Monday through Friday, I post the Bible reading, brief commentary, and questions for group discussion. The group is a great community of women from all over the world that encourage each other and pray for one another. You are invited to join! Follow this link to “Reading the Bible Together” then answer the 3 quick questions.

Did any of these 3 surprise you? In light of these 3 tips, have been misunderstanding a particular proverb?

3 Tips to Help You Understand Proverbs by Kathy Howard.

The world misunderstands real faith in God. Many belittle our faith in Jesus as a “crutch” for the weak. The “enlightened” think us ignorant. But they are wrong about the nature of faith. Unfortunately, sometimes even Christians lack a solid, biblical understanding of true faith. Arming ourselves with the following truths can not only help us better articulate our faith, it can also strengthen our commitment to Christ.

7 Truths from Scripture about Real Faith  Faith does not abandon reason

True biblical faith is not illogical, blind acceptance, or a flimsy hope. Instead, our faith is an “assurance,” a firm, solid confidence in the object of our faith (Hebrews 11:1). God can stand up to any scrutiny and investigation. Scientific facts abound to undergird our faith in a Creator. An abundance of historical information exists to support the biblical narrative. God has also confirmed all of His Word by miraculously demonstrating that we can trust His promises. Living a life of faith does not mean we will never have questions about God and His ways. But when we do have questions, we know we can trust the One who has all the answers.

Faith fills in the gaps

While faith is reasonable and logical, believers still have questions. For instance, we don’t understand why God allows painful circumstances or we struggle to comprehend important truths about our incomprehensible God. Until we get to heaven – or until Jesus returns – we walk by faith in these areas. We trust God with both the understandable and the incomprehensible. Faith drives and guides our lives in every area. “… for we walk by faith, not by sight” (2 Corinthians 5:7, ESV).

Faith is a gift from God

We cannot save ourselves. We cannot work hard enough or be good enough. Only God has both the power and authority to save us. From beginning to end, our salvation is solely His work. Yes, God saves us through our faith. We are “justified” by faith (Romans 5:1). But even our faith is given to us by God. We can’t take credit for it. We can’t manufacture it (Ephesians 2:8-9, ESV). Note: If you’ve never entered into a saving relationship with Jesus, find out more here: “How to Know Jesus.” If your faith feels flat and lifeless, you might be encouraged by “Fed Up with Flat Faith.”

Faith will produce good works

Faith that saves is more than mere acknowledgement of the existence of God. Even the demons believe in God’s existence and tremble at the knowledge (James 2:19). But they disobediently oppose God. Their belief does not save. Faith is not simply belief in a set of facts. Real faith trusts so much in its object of faith that it is moved to action. True faith make itself known in our lives by obedience (Romans 1:5). The New Testament author James recognized and taught that living faith is active. Saving faith, given to us by God, will always result in good works. If we persist in disobedience or our lives are void of spiritual fruit, our faith may be dead (James 2:14-17).

Faith is strengthened by trials

God uses difficulties, trials, and persecution to test, strengthen, and grow our faith. Just as fire refines gold and silver by burning away the dross, the fires in the lives of believers burns away the impurities in our faith (1 Peter 1:6-7). Our faith can get lazy and flabby when times are easy. But, trials put are an opportunity for our faith to work – and get a workout. Just like lifting increased weight builds and strengthens our muscles, “lifting” our faith in hard times builds and strengthens our faith (James 1:2-4). So, let’s not waste these opportunities to grow our faith. When the difficulties come – and they will! – let us rely on our faith in God. (Also see, “7 Characteristics of a Mature Christian.”)

Faith trusts in a Person, not an outcome

We will have difficulties, disappointments, and derailments in this life. Sadly, some Christians become discouraged when life gets hard and their prayers aren’t answered in the way they’d hoped. Too often we mistakenly put our faith in a desired outcome rather than in the One who hears our prayers. When God tested Abraham’s faith and told him to sacrifice his only son, Abraham obeyed. He believed in the power and promises of God. Because Abraham trusted in God and not a specific outcome (Hebrews 11:17-19), God was glorified and Abraham’s faith was strengthened. Real faith is grounded in God – not an outcome – no matter how He chooses to work we will not be shaken. (For more info, see “10 Characteristics of Faith from the Hebrews Hall of Faith.”)

Faith protects us from the enemy’s arrows

Satan is our enemy. He works to foster guilt, shame, and doubt in our hearts and minds. He whispers in our ear that God doesn’t exist. Or that God doesn’t care. Satan reminds us of our failures and mistakes, drudging up sin that God forgave long ago. But true faith in God, His character, and His ways is our strong shield of defense that blocks the enemy’s pointed schemes against us. Faith in the Holy One extinguishes those fiery lies from hell (Ephesians 6:16) and negates the power of Satan. Hold your shield high and do not set it aside.

Which of these truths about faith do you need to embrace today?

7 Biblical Truths that Help Us Understand Real Faith by Kathy Howard.

Lent begins next week. Like me, you may not be part of a church tradition that formally observes the Lenten season. But the time period between Ash Wednesday (February 23) and Easter (April 17) is a great time to purposefully reflect on Jesus Christ, His sacrifice for our sins, and His victory over death through His resurrection. 

Many of us may love the idea of meaningful reflection on what Jesus has done for us, but not be sure what to do. I want to help! Keep reading to hear about the FREE Bible reading plan I’ve put together that will help you focus on Jesus and what He’s done for us. But I also thought you might be interested in a few other ways we can observe the Lenten season. (For a quick overview of what Lent is and how it came to be, see “When is Lent? What is the Timeline?” or “What is Lent and Why is it Important?”)

Ways to Observe Lent

Compared to Advent before Christmas, Lent is a somber time. Jesus died for us. Our sin nailed Him to the cross. The activities typically observed during the 40 days leading up to Easter are meant to foster introspection, repentance, self-denial, and a deeper awareness of Jesus’ sacrifice. Here are the primary ways Christians observe Lent:

Fasting – Temporarily giving up something we especially enjoy or something that consumes a lot of our time is a great way to refocus our attention on Jesus. Fasting can mean abstaining from a specific food or stopping an activity like television or social media. Giving – Financially giving to others is another way to deny self and acknowledge Jesus. We may give up something we want or need to provide for someone else. Giving also recognizes the many blessings of God in our lives. Generosity in giving reflects the boundless generosity of Christ toward us. “For you know the grace of our Lord Jesus, that though he was rich, yet for your sake he became poor, so that you by his poverty might become rich” (2 Corinthians 8:9).Prayer – Although repentance may not always be at the top of our prayer list, Scripture emphasizes our need for ongoing repentance. For instance, Jesus included repentance in the sample prayer He gave to His disciples (Matthew 6:12). We can use Scripture to help us express repentance. Psalm 51 is a great place to begin. I also use Psalm 139:23-24: “Search me, O God, and know my heart! Try me and know my thoughts! And see if there be any grievous way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting!” Bible Reading – God has revealed Himself to us in His Word! God wants us to know Him. If you don’t read the Bible regularly, Lent is a great time to begin. If you’re sporadic, you could form a new habit.FREE Bible Reading Plan for Lent

The Gospel of Mark makes a great focus for Lent since it tells the story of Jesus, His ministry, and His sacrifice. This plan divides Mark into 40 bite-sized readings. And since Sundays aren’t counted in the 40 days of Lent, the plan includes six resurrection-themed readings for the six Sundays of the Lenten season.

DOWNLOAD THE FREE BIBLE READING PLAN

If you’d like to enhance your reading time consider getting a copy of my 40-day devotional book “Deep Rooted: Growing through the Gospel of Mark.” The 40 days correlate with the 40 days of the Bible reading plan. Each day includes inspiration, commentary on the passage, and questions to help you dig deeper, reflect on, and apply what you read. 

Find out more about “Deep Rooted: Growing through the Gospel of Mark”

See the book now on Amazon

Do you plan to observe the Lenten season? If so, how?

FREE Bible Reading Plan for Lent by Kathy Howard.

I’ve often referred to myself as a “cultural Christian.” I grew up in the church, walked the aisle at 8-years-old, said a prayer, and was baptized. Then I spent the next 18 years doubting my salvation and “rededicating” my life again and again. I didn’t have genuine faith. Then, when I was 26, during a women’s Bible study through Romans, I entered into a saving relationship with Jesus. My experience reflects the theme of Denise Wilson’s new book “Seven Words You Never Want to Hear.” I invited Denise to share with you today because I believe this message is important. Thank you Denise for your book and for sharing with my readers today!

I’ve lost count of the number of times I prayed to ask Jesus into my heart. As a child, I used to preface my prayers with the words, “This time I really mean it.” I know I’m not alone. It’s common practice in evangelical Christianity to ask kids to repeat a salvation prayer.

No doubt some kids who ask Jesus into their heart are genuinely saved, but sadly, many aren’t. Despite all my prayers, I wasn’t truly born again until I was fourteen. It happened while attending a Christian youth camp. I don’t look back on a prayer as the proof of my salvation. The funny thing is I don’t even remember praying. I know it was real though because my life began to change.

True Faith Begins with Repentance

False conversions are the result of false gospels. “God loves you and wants you to be in his family” is true, but it’s not the gospel because it leaves out the principle of repentance. The real good news of the gospel starts with understanding the bad news of our sinful condition and our need of a Savior. Without repentance there is no salvation.

A.W. Tozer said, 

“It is my opinion that tens of thousands, if not millions, have been brought into some kind of religious experience by accepting Christ and they have not been saved.”

Many are self-deceived, believing that they are right with God, when in fact they are not. I can’t think of anything more frightening than standing before God after death and hearing the words, “I never knew you; depart from me” (Matt. 7:23).

In the context of that passage it’s clear that the people hearing those words claimed to be Christians. They call Jesus Lord and even perform miracles in his name. Despite their outward show of faith, the passage makes it clear that they have no real relationship with God.

The concern is even greater when we realize that it won’t be just a few people. The Bible says, “many” will hear those words (Matt. 7:22).

We Can Know if We have Genuine Faith

To know for sure that our faith is genuine we are told to examine ourselves. Paul gave these words to the church in Corinth.

Examine yourselves to see whether you are in the faith; test yourselves. Do you not realize that Christ Jesus is in you—unless, of course, you fail the test? (2 Cor. 13:5)

My friend Nancy told me how when she was twelve years old she doubted her salvation and went to her mother to find assurance. Her wise mom didn’t point her back to the time she had prayed to ask Jesus into her heart. No, what she did is what I would advise anyone who wants assurance of salvation. The mother took her to the book of 1 John and went through the tests of genuine faith found there. (You may also enjoy “7 Biblical Truths that Help Us Understand True Faith.”)

God wants us to know for sure that we are his children. If you want to be sure you are saved, take the test. Do you love the world? Has your lifestyle changed? Do you love and justify your sin, or do you hate it? John Piper said, “The mark of a believer is not the absence of sin, but the fact that we are fighting sin.”

The Bible includes these, and many more tests of genuine faith. We don’t want to wait until death to find out if we got it right.

Thank you Denise Wilson for sharing today!

Denise lives in small-town Ontario, Canada, with her husband, two boys and a whole bunch of chickens. She has been passionate about sharing the gospel ever since her conversion experience as a young teen. This passion led to her first book, Seven Words You Never Want to Hear. The book was written out of concern for the “many” who profess faith yet are not truly born again. Find out more about Denise and the book on her website.

We Can Know if We Have Genuine Faith by Kathy Howard.

[image error]

Do you recognize God’s voice? Do you know how to discern God’s will for your life? Maybe you’re facing a difficult situation or decision or maybe you just want to know God’s direction. You may sense a gentle prodding but you aren’t sure if that’s from God. We’ve all been there.

God wants us to know His will. That’s a comforting truth, but sometimes we still struggle in our day to day lives to know exactly what to do.

We can learn to know God’s voice

Jesus said His “sheep” – that’s anyone in a saving relationship with Him – will hear and recognize His voice. We will be able to distinguish Jesus’ voice from a stranger’s. Jesus will lead us and we will follow Him. (See John 10:3-5.)

We have a 14-year-old chihuahua named Cooper. Cooper originally belonged to my father-in-law, but we took him in six years ago when Pappaw passed away. Cooper suffers from degenerative retina disease and is now almost completely blind. 

We do have to carry Cooper around some – good thing he’s small – but we also guide him with our voice. Since we have a pool in the backyard, it’s vital for us to stay close to him and for Cooper to listen and obey. After he does his “business” I bring him back to me by calling his name and clapping my hands.

A few months ago, our next-door neighbor got a new dog. They named him Cooper. Several times when they tried to get their Cooper to come to them, he refused. He kept running to the fence between our two houses. Their Cooper was responding to my voice rather than theirs. Next-door Cooper had not yet learned his master’s voice and was easily drawn away by another voice. 

5 Helps to Discern God’s Will

I long to know God’s voice so thoroughly that I can quickly recognize and ignore other voices. What about you? 

In the last few months, I’ve spent a lot of time in the book of Acts. One thing I’ve seen repeatedly is how the early believers recognized then followed God’s leading. They relied on the following five things to discern God’s will.

1. The Bible

The best way to learn God’s voice is to study His Word. God has revealed Himself, His character, and His ways to us in the Bible. If we want to know His will, to know what He would do, we must know Him. We must start with His Word. 

Although the Bible may not give specific guidance for every specific life situation, it does teach spiritual truths and principles that can be applied to every possible life situation. (See “What Does the Bible Say about Life in the Womb?” for an example.)

Sometimes, no matter how well we know Scripture, we may still struggle to discern God’s specific will in a particular. What do we do then?

2. Prayer

God often clarifies His will through prayer. For instance, the church in Antioch was praying when God directed them to send Barnabas and Saul off on mission (Acts 13:1-3). The church already knew from Jesus’ last words that they were to take the Gospel to the world (Matthew 28:19-20 and Acts 1:8), but through prayer, God gave specific direction for how to obey.

3. The Holy Spirit

One day, while Peter was praying on a rooftop, God gave him a vision. As Peter pondered its meaning, the Spirit gave him clear direction (Acts 10:9-20). The Holy Spirit resides within every true believer. He is our Teacher and Guide. He helps us understand Scripture and shows us how to apply it to our lives. He gives guidance and clarity as we study the Bible and pray. (You may also find “Discerning God’s Will” helpful.) 

4. Circumstances

During the first church council – recorded in Acts 15 – the believers interpreted recent circumstances through the light of Scripture. In separate instances, God had worked through both Peter then Paul and Barnabas to bring many Gentiles to saving faith in Christ. This had upset some Jewish believers. But when the church considered the circumstances in light of Old Testament prophecy, they had to accept that “yes” God would indeed extend His salvation to Gentiles (Amos 9:11-12). We certainly cannot rely on circumstances alone to point us in the right direction, but God can use them to confirm His will. 

God also orchestrates the circumstances of our lives to put us in the proper position to carry out His will for us. Looking back at where He has brought us can help us see His next steps for us.

5. Godly Counsel

God designed us to need other believers. Sometimes we need to talk through things with another person. Another believer, who also prays and studies God’s Word, can help insure you make choices that align with Scripture. Choose you counsel wisely and give them permission to hold you accountable for obedience. 

6. The Bible

Yes, I know. I already mentioned the Bible. That’s where we started. But we must also end with Scripture because God will not speak in any way that contradicts His Word. God will not reveal anything through prayer that contradicts His Word. The Holy Spirit will not teach any spiritual truth that contradicts His Word. Circumstances will not point in any direction that contradicts God’s Word. Finally, any human counsel that contradicts God’s Word is not godly counsel.

How to Discern God’s Will by Kathy Howard.