Living The Life – Inspiration 0225

“The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases; his mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning; great is your faithfulness.”
— Lamentations 3:22-23 (ESV)

Each new day is a reminder of God’s unchanging love and endless mercy. Just as the sunrise paints the sky with fresh beauty, His faithfulness brings light and hope into every season of life. Embrace today with confidence, knowing His mercies are renewed for you, offering peace and strength for whatever lies ahead.


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Copyright Notice © 2024 Rev. Cecil Thorn Permission is hereby granted, free of charge, to any person obtaining a copy of this work authored by Rev. Cecil Thorn, to distribute, display, and reproduce the work, in its entirety, including verbatim copies, provided that no fee is charged for the copies or distribution. This permission is granted for non-commercial distribution only.


Living The Life – Inspiration 0125

“But they who wait for the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings like eagles; they shall run and not be weary; they shall walk and not faint.”
— Isaiah 40:31(ESV)

When life feels heavy and your energy wanes, remember that God’s strength is limitless. Trusting in Him is like catching the updraft of an eagle’s wings—you’ll soar above challenges with renewed vitality. Take heart, for each step forward is powered by divine grace, ensuring you will not falter. Today is a fresh opportunity to rise with purpose!


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About anything, comments to articles, questions you have, etc.



Copyright Notice © 2024 Rev. Cecil Thorn Permission is hereby granted, free of charge, to any person obtaining a copy of this work authored by Rev. Cecil Thorn, to distribute, display, and reproduce the work, in its entirety, including verbatim copies, provided that no fee is charged for the copies or distribution. This permission is granted for non-commercial distribution only.


Living The Life – Inspiration 1224

“Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.”
— Isaiah 41:10 (ESV)

No matter what challenges come your way, remember that you are never alone. God’s strength is your anchor, His presence your peace, and His power your help. Trust Him to uphold you today and always. Step forward boldly—He’s got you in the palm of His hand!


Contact Me: [email protected]

About anything, comments to articles, questions you have, etc.



Copyright Notice © 2024 Rev. Cecil Thorn Permission is hereby granted, free of charge, to any person obtaining a copy of this work authored by Rev. Cecil Thorn, to distribute, display, and reproduce the work, in its entirety, including verbatim copies, provided that no fee is charged for the copies or distribution. This permission is granted for non-commercial distribution only.


Does praise unlock the door to freedom

Rev. Dr. Cecil W Thorn, ThD

The idea that praise unlocks the door to freedom is a powerful biblical theme. Scripture shows several instances where praise led to breakthroughs, deliverance, and freedom from physical or spiritual bondage. Here are a few key examples:

1. Paul and Silas in Prison

(Acts 16:25-26 (ESV)) Scripture: “About midnight Paul and Silas were praying and singing hymns to God, and the prisoners were listening to them, and suddenly there was a great earthquake, so that the foundations of the prison were shaken. And immediately all the doors were opened, and everyone’s bonds were unfastened.”

Significance:

This passage demonstrates how Paul and Silas’ praise while in prison led to an earthquake that opened the prison doors and freed them from their chains. Their praise to God literally unlocked their physical freedom.

2. Jehoshaphat’s Battle

(2 Chronicles 20:21-22 (ESV)) Scripture: “And when he had taken counsel with the people, he appointed those who were to sing to the LORD and praise him in holy attire, as they went before the army, and say, ‘Give thanks to the LORD, for his steadfast love endures forever.’ And when they began to sing and praise, the LORD set an ambush against the men of Ammon, Moab, and Mount Seir, who had come against Judah, so that they were routed.”

Significance:

King Jehoshaphat sent singers to praise God ahead of the army, and as they praised, God fought the battle for them, granting them victory. Praise here unlocked the freedom from their enemies.

3. Walls of Jericho

(Joshua 6:20 (ESV)) Scripture: “So the people shouted, and the trumpets were blown. As soon as the people heard the sound of the trumpet, the people shouted a great shout, and the wall fell down flat, so that the people went up into the city, every man straight before him, and they captured the city.”

Significance:

The shout of praise from the Israelites caused the walls of Jericho to collapse, leading to their victory and freedom to enter the Promised Land. Their praise was key in unlocking this breakthrough.

4. God Inhabits the Praises of His People

(Psalm 22:3 (ESV)) Scripture: “Yet you are holy, enthroned on the praises of Israel.”

Significance:

This verse highlights that God is present in the praises of His people. When we praise Him, His presence brings freedom, deliverance, and breakthrough.

5. The Garment of Praise for the Spirit of Heaviness

(Isaiah 61:3 (ESV)) Scripture: “To grant to those who mourn in Zion—to give them a beautiful headdress instead of ashes, the oil of gladness instead of mourning, the garment of praise instead of a faint spirit; that they may be called oaks of righteousness, the planting of the LORD, that he may be glorified.”

Significance:

Praise replaces despair and heaviness with joy and strength. It is through praise that God gives freedom from the weight of oppression.

6. Praise and Deliverance

(Psalm 34:1-4 (ESV)) Scripture: “I will bless the LORD at all times; his praise shall continually be in my mouth. My soul makes its boast in the LORD; let the humble hear and be glad. Oh, magnify the LORD with me, and let us exalt his name together! I sought the LORD, and he answered me and delivered me from all my fears.”

Significance:

David praises the Lord in all circumstances and experiences deliverance. Praise unlocks the door to freedom from fear and oppression.

Summary:

Praise has the power to unlock doors to both physical and spiritual freedom. Whether it’s through literal deliverance from prison as seen in Acts 16 (ESV), victory over enemies as in 2 Chronicles 20 (ESV), or emotional and spiritual release from heaviness (Isaiah 61 (ESV)), Scripture shows that praise invites God’s presence, power, and freedom into our lives.


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Not Peace, but a Sword

Rev Dr Cecil Wayne Thorn, ThD

Introduction to “Not Peace, but a Sword” (Matthew 10: 34-39 (ESV)):

The message of Jesus Christ is often associated with peace, love, and reconciliation. However, in Matthew 10:34-39 (ESV), Jesus delivers a surprising and provocative statement that challenges this common perception. He declares that He did not come to bring peace to the earth, but a sword, signifying division and conflict even among the closest of relationships.

This passage, sometimes unsettling in its starkness, reveals a deeper truth about the nature of following Christ. The “sword” represents the inevitable divisions that arise when individuals commit their lives to Jesus, often leading to opposition, even within one’s own household. Jesus emphasizes the cost of discipleship, where loyalty to Him must surpass all other allegiances, including those to family and self.

In exploring these verses, we are confronted with the reality that following Christ is not merely about comfort and harmony, but about making difficult choices and enduring potential hardship. This introduction sets the stage for a deeper examination of what it means to truly follow Jesus, understanding the profound implications of His call to put Him above all else.


Matthew 10:34-39 (ESV):

“Do not think that I have come to bring peace to the earth. I have not come to bring peace, but a sword. For I have come to set a man against his father, and a daughter against her mother, and a daughter-in-law against her mother-in-law. And a person’s enemies will be those of his own household. Whoever loves father or mother more than me is not worthy of me, and whoever loves son or daughter more than me is not worthy of me. And whoever does not take his cross and follow me is not worthy of me. Whoever finds his life will lose it, and whoever loses his life for my sake will find it.”

Matthew Henry’s Commentary:

Verses 34-36:
Christ’s coming was not to send peace, but a sword. Though the design of the gospel was to bring men together in love, its effect would be, through the corruption of man’s hearts, to occasion division. The sword signifies strife and opposition. The worst enemies to a man may be those of his own family. The preaching of the gospel has generally occasioned more contention and persecution than anything else. As Christ’s people are one, so are the enemies of Christ, and they are often nearest to us. This division comes not from the gospel itself, which is a gospel of peace, but from the corruption of men’s hearts.

Verses 37-39:
Christ must be loved above all. The love we owe our relations, friends, and ourselves, must be compared with the love we owe Christ, and must be hatred (Luke 14:26 (ESV)). Not that we must divest ourselves of natural affection; but we must not permit ourselves to be hindered by the strongest affection. Christ must be followed, though we are likely to suffer by it. Though we lose friends, estates, and liberties, for His sake, yet we must bear the cross. Those who will not bear the cross shall be forever cast off; those who take up the cross and follow Christ will find that the burden they have to bear for Him is far less than the burden of sin.

This passage emphasizes the total commitment required to follow Christ. Love for Him must be greater than any earthly attachment, even to close family members. The call to take up one’s cross signifies a willingness to endure suffering and loss for Christ’s sake, but the promise is that such sacrifice will ultimately lead to eternal life.


My Thoughts

Conclusion on Matthew 10:34-39 (ESV):

In Matthew 10:34-39 (ESV), Jesus presents a stark and challenging message about the nature of discipleship. Contrary to expectations of earthly peace, Jesus acknowledges that His coming will bring division, even among the closest relationships. The “sword” He speaks of symbolizes the inevitable conflicts that arise when one chooses to follow Him wholeheartedly, often putting them at odds with family and friends who do not share the same commitment.

The passage underscores the radical demands of discipleship, where allegiance to Christ must take precedence over all other relationships, even those most cherished. Jesus calls for a love and loyalty to Him that surpasses even the natural bonds of family. This does not mean neglecting or abandoning family, but rather prioritizing one’s commitment to Christ above all else.

The call to “take up one’s cross” signifies a willingness to endure hardship, suffering, and even death for the sake of following Jesus. It is a reminder that true life is found not in clinging to worldly comforts or relationships, but in surrendering one’s life to Christ. Paradoxically, it is in losing our life for His sake that we find true and eternal life.

This passage challenges believers to evaluate their priorities and to embrace the cost of discipleship with the assurance that the rewards of following Christ far outweigh the sacrifices.

The Greatest Man in History

-Author Unknown

The greatest man in history had no servants, yet they called Him Master.
He had no degree, yet they called Him Teacher.
He had no medicines, yet they called Him Healer.
He had no army, yet kings feared Him.
He won no military battles, yet He conquered the world.
He committed no crime, yet they crucified Him.
He was buried in a tomb, yet He lives today.
His name is Jesus
.


Note: picture by Simon Dewey, go to website to see more of his works: https://altusfineart.com/search?type=article%2Cpage%2Cproduct&q=Simon+Dewey

The Depth of Christ’s Love

The love of Christ is a foundational aspect of the Christian faith, encapsulating the essence of God’s relationship with humanity. Ephesians 3:17-19 (ESV) beautifully illustrates this profound love: “so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith—that you, being rooted and grounded in love, may have strength to comprehend with all the saints what is the breadth and length and height and depth, and to know the love of Christ that surpasses knowledge, that you may be filled with all the fullness of God.” This passage emphasizes that Christ’s love is immeasurable and surpasses human understanding, inviting believers to experience its transformative power deeply.

Unconditional and Sacrificial

Christ’s love is unconditional and sacrificial, epitomized by His willingness to lay down His life for humanity. Romans 5:8 (ESV) states, “but God shows his love for us in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us.” This act of selfless love demonstrates that Christ’s love is not contingent upon our actions or worthiness. Instead, it is a divine gift that offers redemption and reconciliation to all who accept it, highlighting the ultimate sacrifice He made for our salvation.

Transformative Power

The transformative power of Christ’s love is evident in the lives of those who follow Him. 2 Corinthians 5:17 (ESV) declares, “Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come.” Through His love, believers are not only forgiven but also renewed, empowered to live a life that reflects His grace and mercy. This transformation is a testament to the profound impact of Christ’s love, reshaping hearts and minds to align with His divine purpose.

Love in Action

Christ’s love is not merely an abstract concept but is meant to be lived out in practical ways. John 13:34-35 (ESV) commands, “A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another: just as I have loved you, you also are to love one another. By this all people will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another.” This directive underscores the importance of expressing Christ’s love through our actions, serving others selflessly, and fostering a community that reflects His teachings. It is through these acts of love that the world can witness the reality of Christ’s love in action.

Eternal Assurance

Finally, Christ’s love offers eternal assurance and hope for believers. Romans 8:38-39 (ESV) reassures us, “For I am sure that neither death nor life, nor angels nor rulers, nor things present nor things to come, nor powers, nor height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord.” This profound promise assures that Christ’s love is unwavering and eternal, providing a steadfast anchor for our faith amidst life’s uncertainties and challenges.

In conclusion, the love of Christ is a multi-faceted and profound aspect of the Christian faith, encompassing immeasurable depth, unconditional sacrifice, transformative power, practical expression, and eternal assurance. Through scriptural references, we gain a deeper understanding of how Christ’s love permeates every aspect of our lives, offering us a model to emulate and a source of unending hope.




Eight billion people in the world

I heard this from an individual. And I wanna find out what you think he meant by it?

“There are 8 billion people in the world and all of them. We’re born of a woman.”

What do you think this comment meant?

Send me your response below and I will email you back my answer.



God Is Good!

Author: Barry Bennett

Many Christians attribute to God the characteristics of the enemy.
They see God as the thief.
They see God as making them sick.
God is taking their possessions.
God is making life hard.
God is sending suffering on their lives.
That’s a wrong concept that is going to horribly affect the way you live your life.
If you don’t see God as being for you,
and being the opposite of what the enemy comes to do,
God is not the enemy.
God is not your problem.
God is the blesser.
God is the one who is wanting to give you more life.
God wants us to be joyful.
He wants us to have his nature, his peace, everything about him.
He has made available to us.


My Comments

Author: Rev. Cecil Thorn

My comment addresses a common theological misunderstanding among some Christians regarding the nature and intentions of God. Here’s an analysis of the key points:

  1. Misattributing Negative Characteristics to God: The comment highlights that some Christians mistakenly attribute to God the characteristics and actions traditionally associated with the enemy (often understood as Satan or evil forces). These attributions include seeing God as a thief, the one who makes people sick, takes possessions, makes life hard, and sends suffering.
  2. Impact on Life Perspective: The belief that God is the source of these negative experiences can profoundly affect one’s outlook on life. If individuals see God as an adversary, it can lead to a sense of hopelessness, fear, and a strained relationship with their faith.
  3. Theological Correction: The comment argues that this view is fundamentally wrong and harmful. Instead, it suggests that Christians should understand God as a benefactor who desires to bless, give life, and bring joy, peace, and abundance. This perspective is more aligned with the traditional Christian view of God as loving, compassionate, and benevolent.
  4. God as Supportive and Loving: Emphasizing that God is for people, not against them, encourages a healthier, more positive spiritual life. It reassures believers that God is not their enemy but their supporter, seeking their well-being and happiness.
  5. Biblical Foundations: This perspective is often supported by various biblical texts. For example, in John 10:10, Jesus says, “The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.” This verse contrasts the actions of the thief (often interpreted as Satan) with Jesus’ mission to bring abundant life.

In summary, the Bible supports the view that God is not the source of our problems but rather our helper and benefactor. Recognizing God as a loving and benevolent Father who desires our well-being and joy can transform our faith and life perspective. Trusting in God’s good intentions aligns us with His promises and character, fostering a life of peace, joy, and confidence in His provision and care.


Embracing Christian Masculinity

Introduction:
Today, we delve into the profound concept of masculinity from a Christian perspective. In a world often muddled with conflicting messages about what it means to be a man, let us turn to the timeless wisdom of Scripture to illuminate the path towards authentic masculinity.

1. Rooted in Humility

      • Scripture Reference: “Do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves. Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others.” (Philippians 2:3-4 (ESV))
      • Masculinity, from a Christian viewpoint, is not about dominance or asserting one’s superiority over others. Rather, it is grounded in humility, placing the needs and well-being of others above oneself.
      • “Humble yourselves before the Lord, and he will exalt you.” (James 4:10 (ESV))
      • James encourages believers to humble themselves before God, promising that God will exalt those who demonstrate humility.
      • “Likewise, you who are younger, be subject to the elders. Clothe yourselves, all of you, with humility toward one another, for ‘God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble.’ Humble yourselves, therefore, under the mighty hand of God so that at the proper time he may exalt you.” (1 Peter 5:5-6 (ESV))
      • Peter underscores the importance of humility in relationships and before God, highlighting that God opposes the proud but extends grace to the humble, ultimately leading to exaltation.

      2. Exemplifying Strength in Love

        • Scripture Reference: “Husbands, love your wives, as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her.” (Ephesians 5:25 (ESV))
        • True masculinity is demonstrated through sacrificial love, mirroring the love of Christ for His church. It involves strength not in physical prowess alone, but in the depth of one’s capacity to love and serve others.
        • “Let all that you do be done in love.” (1 Corinthians 16:14 (ESV))
        • This verse encapsulates the overarching principle of conducting oneself with love in all actions and interactions, reflecting the strength of love in Christian character.
        • “We love because he first loved us.” (1 John 4:19 (ESV))
        • This verse reminds us that our capacity to love stems from experiencing the love of God, highlighting the foundational role of God’s love in exemplifying love’s strength in our lives.

        3. Leading with Integrity

          • “The integrity of the upright guides them, but the crookedness of the treacherous destroys them.” (Proverbs 11:3 (ESV))
          • A Christian man leads with integrity, guided by moral principles and honesty in all endeavors. Integrity forms the bedrock of trustworthy leadership, both in the family and in society.
          • “The righteous who walks in his integrity—blessed are his children after him!” (Proverbs 20:7 (ESV))
          • This verse emphasizes that leading with integrity not only benefits the individual but also leaves a positive legacy for future generations.
          • “With upright heart he shepherded them and guided them with his skillful hand.” (Psalm 78:72 (ESV))
          • This verse describes the leadership of David, highlighting his integrity and skill in guiding God’s people.
          • “Show yourself in all respects to be a model of good works, and in your teaching show integrity, dignity, and sound speech that cannot be condemned, so that an opponent may be put to shame, having nothing evil to say about us.” (Titus 2:7-8 (ESV))
          • Titus encourages believers to exhibit integrity in their actions and teachings, ensuring that they stand as exemplary models of Christian conduct.

          4. Embracing Responsibility

            • “But if anyone does not provide for his relatives, and especially for members of his household, he has denied the faith and is worse than an unbeliever.” (1 Timothy 5:8 (ESV))
            • Masculinity entails taking responsibility for one’s actions, providing for and nurturing the family entrusted to one’s care. This responsibility extends beyond mere provision to emotional support, guidance, and spiritual leadership.
            • “For each will have to bear his own load.” (Galatians 6:5 (ESV))
            • Galatians underscores personal responsibility, reminding individuals that they are accountable for their actions and the burdens they carry in life.
            • “Fathers, do not provoke your children to anger, but bring them up in the discipline and instruction of the Lord.” (Ephesians 6:4 (ESV))
            • This verse highlights the responsibility of fathers to raise their children in a manner that nurtures them spiritually and emotionally.

            5. Seeking Wisdom and Discernment

              • “The beginning of wisdom is this: Get wisdom, and whatever you get, get insight.” (Proverbs 4:7 (ESV))
              • A Christian man seeks wisdom and discernment, recognizing that true strength lies in the ability to make wise decisions and discern the will of God in all aspects of life. This pursuit of wisdom shapes his character and influences his interactions with others.
              • “If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God, who gives generously to all without reproach, and it will be given him.” (James 1:5 (ESV))
              • James encourages believers to ask God for wisdom, assuring that God is willing to generously grant it to those who seek it with sincerity.

              In conclusion, Christian masculinity transcends societal stereotypes and cultural expectations. It is a holistic embodiment of humility, sacrificial love, integrity, responsibility, and wisdom, all rooted in the teachings of Scripture. As men called to live out our faith in a broken world, may we strive to embody these virtues, reflecting the image of Christ in all that we do.

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