Christian means living out active discipleship and giving allegiance to the kingdom of God, which stands in tension with the world.
Spiritual blindness leads us away from God’s presence and closes us off from God’s kingdom, while humility is the key that unlocks spiritual vision and deliverance.
The Black church has a living legacy of resilience and a tireless pursuit of justice. To revitalize its relevance for today’s youth, we must reconnect them to this heritage, making space for their voices and empowering them to participate.
More than merely testifying to Jesus’ existence, miracles, or even his identity as the Son of God. To be in Christ means to be a practitioner of his ways by being obedient to God’s laws and allowing the Spirit to guide how we live.
Rather than a realized, perfect vision of complete balance and well-being, my vision of flourishing often looks like survival and maintaining the hope of God through adversity.
"Michael Jackson's 'Thriller' was more than just a music video; it was a cultural milestone that challenged societal norms and embraced diversity."
In a society where it's up to those with power and privilege to re-level the playing field, the Bible serves as the oppressed person's manual for survival, reminding us that we can peacefully sustain in a rigged game.
As present-day disciples of Jesus Christ, participation in God's justice mission requires developing the fruits of the Holy Spirit to build healthy relationships and communities.
When we find ourselves slipping into people-pleasing behaviors or notice others taking advantage of our willingness to help, it’s refreshing to see that the Bible allows and encourages us to say no.
Though we’re often too afraid to ask, God, our Father, loves us unconditionally, desires to bless us, and teaches us to ask for what we want. When we fail to do so, as Ahaz does in our text, God takes it as a sign of disrespect, a lack of faith, and a test of his patience.
Jesus will come again. This time, to reclaim his disciples, bring justice to the world, and dwell with his people in a restored creation forever. Therefore, we must be ready.
“Through the stillness, I had time to reflect, and I discovered my toxic relationship with work. Rather than waiting on the Holy Spirit’s guidance to lead me to purpose, I had been trying to build it alone, chasing wealth and prestige over joy and fulfillment.”
“Despite our best efforts to prove ourselves or hold life together, weakness still finds us. Paul shows us that true strength doesn’t come from perfection or achievement but from God’s grace, a power that enables us to endure, embrace our vulnerabilities, and live in praise.”
Arm yourself with knowledge, share information, speak out against injustice, and be consistent until things begin to change.