DEEP DIVE: What Does John 10:10 Really Mean?
"The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full."
In John 10:10, Jesus clearly states His mission: “I came that they may have life and have it more abundantly” (NKJV). Other translations of this verse say, “I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full," while the NASB version reads, “I came to give life—life in all its fullness.”
God is drawing our attention to His words because He wants us to understand what it truly means to live victoriously in Christ. Living a superabundant life with our Lord surpasses anything we can ask, think, or imagine!
The Greek word "perissós" in John 10:10, often translated as "full" or "abundantly," also carries meanings of "all-around" and "equidistant," highlighting the concepts of abundance, surplus, and completeness.
Strong’s Concordance renders the verse as saying, "I came in order that they [believers] might continuously have life, even that they may continuously have it all-around (4053)."
All-around: This suggests comprehensiveness and completeness, encompassing the wellness of mind, spirit, and soul. When Jesus speaks of giving life "to the full" or "abundantly," He means a life complete in every aspect, creating "wholeness" in heart and spirit. Nothing is lacking in the life that Jesus offers.
Equidistant: This word implies balance and symmetry. Imagine your life as a circle with Jesus at the center, and everything else extends outward from that point. In the context of John 10:10, this suggests that the abundant life Jesus offers is well-balanced and harmonious. It signifies a life where all parts are equally filled with fullness, ensuring that no aspect is neglected.
In John 10:7-9, Jesus speaks of His role as the gate for the sheep saying, “All who have come before me are thieves and robbers, but the sheep have not listened to them. I am the gate; whoever enters through me will be saved. They will come in and go out, and find pasture."
This declaration sets the stage for the powerful promise in John 10:10, where Jesus continues, "The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full."
Here, Jesus contrasts His life-giving mission with the destructive intentions of others, emphasizing that through Him, believers are offered not just life, but life in its fullest and most abundant form.
What It Takes To Live Abundantly with Jesus
An abundant life with Christ means experiencing an overflowing fullness that goes beyond mere sufficiency. This is the life Jesus desires for you. He takes our emptiness and overflows our hearts with His grace, love and peace. The love of our Heavenly Father is unconditional and unwavering and provides a sense of security and acceptance that makes us understand that we belong to the King of all kings.
God’s “abundant” life is available for everyone, however, only a few “find” it during this lifetime because it comes at a cost.
Understanding the Path to Abundance
Called and Chosen: Jesus emphasizes the importance of true commitment and faith when He says, "Many are called, but few are chosen" (Matthew 22:14). This means that while many hear God's call, only a few respond wholeheartedly.
Walking the Narrow Path: Jesus advises, "Enter through the narrow gate. For wide is the gate and broad is the road that leads to destruction, and many enter through it. But small is the gate and narrow the road that leads to life, and only a few find it" (Matthew 7:13-14). Following Jesus and living a life of righteousness often demands sacrifice, humility, and a willingness to go against societal norms because your life will be different than most people. This commitment can be challenging, which is why fewer people choose this path. God desires for you to be among those who find true life, even while on earth. Embracing the narrow path leads to the Promised Land—eternal life and fulfillment with God. Along the way, we can experience victory and spiritual wholeness here and now. We get a taste of eternity before we even get to Heaven!
Unity with Christ: Paul describes our spiritual journey as being "one with Christ," living a life that reflects God's heart and nature, and finding true life through Him (Galatians 2:20, Philippians 1:21). When we are "one" with our Savior, we are stuck to Him like glue, cleaving to Him with a bond so strong that no evil force or negative experience can break it. The Lord takes our wounded, rejected, and broken hearts and gives us identity in Him, making us whole and healed. Our Father loves us so much!
Components of an Abundant Life
Completeness with Christ: We live a life marked by peace, joy, purpose, and a deep sense of being loved and valued by God. This completeness is found only in a relationship with Christ, who meets every need and fills every void, leading to a truly abundant and "full" life.
Spiritual Growth and Relationship with the Holy Spirit: To find life more abundantly, action on our part is required. We must choose to follow Jesus, seek a personal relationship with the Holy Spirit, study the Scriptures, pray with purpose, engage in spiritual growth, practice gratitude, serve others, and pursue emotional and physical well-being.
Utilizing Spiritual Gifts: As we grow in our journey with Christ, moving from one level of glory to another, we often find the most fulfillment by using our spiritual gifts to serve the body of Christ. Embracing and utilizing the gifts given by the Holy Spirit is crucial for truly experiencing life on earth. This not only enriches our spiritual journey but also accelerates our growth in Christ. The enemy tries to keep us unaware of our unique gifts, making us feel ordinary. The thief "steals" by blinding us to our potential. However, once God reveals the gifts He has given us, it’s up to us to step forward with courage.
Finding an abundant life with Christ means living with purpose and dedicating our lives to Someone and something greater than ourselves.
To Find This Kind of Life – Beware of Spiritual and Emotional Snipers
In John 10:10, Jesus contrasts His purpose with that of "the thief." The verse states: "The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full" (NIV).
To fully grasp this verse, it's crucial to understand the actions attributed to the thief. Jesus mentions the thief first to draw a sharp contrast between His purpose and the destructive intentions of others.
In this context, Jesus is not addressing Satan but the religious leaders of His time. For many of you, the greatest breakthrough in your life will come from standing firm in your faith against people or things that threaten your spiritual health. It’s also important to guard against a religious mindset, or you might find yourself battling against your own legalism, which can stunt your spiritual growth.
To give an example, I didn't grow up in a Holy Spirit-filled church and wasn't aware that God could speak to us. I didn’t understand the gifts of the Spirit because I rarely read the Bible. I only knew Jesus in a religious sense. However, as I read more scripture and spent countless hours with the Lord, God revealed the power of the Holy Spirit to me. I came to understand the importance of Peter's words about being born again "through the living and enduring word of God" (1 Peter 1:23). This rebirth signifies a spiritual renewal and a new beginning in a believer's life, grounded in faith in Jesus Christ and the power of God's word.
Most of all, I discovered a new way of living that drastically changed my life. I truly found life and life more abundantly. Does it mean things are always perfect? Never. In fact, it’s a daily journey to reach the fullness Jesus has for us, requiring a lot of discipline and even facing rejection from those who don’t understand my life.
In my spiritual journey, I had to dismantle the religious customs ingrained in my mind that focused on "doing" for Jesus instead of simply "being" with Him. I discovered a new, active way of living, leading me to understand the truth of the gospel and what it means to worship in Spirit and truth (John 4:24). The Greek word for "worship" signifies more than just singing and dancing; it denotes a deep adoration for King Jesus and a genuine connection with our Father from the depths of our being.
True worship with our Heavenly Father transcends traditional and ceremonial practices and Jesus made this clear. In the modern day, worship is not limited to the four walls of a church. Instead, it is about a personal and intimate relationship with our Father that is alive and active, touching every aspect of our lives. The Holy Spirit dwells and lives in our hearts and we have access to Him wherever we go. To prove this point, some of the most faith-following people I have ever met found Jesus behind prison walls or inside hospital rooms. The Lord meets us right where we are.
To find this abundant life, we must stand firm and be vigilant against the schemes of the enemy (Ephesians 6:11-13). Paul referred to us as soldiers of Christ for a reason.
Roman soldiers during biblical times were known for their discipline, training, and efficiency, forming one of the most powerful military forces in history. Paul encourages us to endure hardship as good soldiers of Christ, emphasizing discipline, focus, and dedication.
Soldiers don't get upset or scared when the adversary comes; rather, they expect it and are trained to combat the evil forces. Roman soldiers exemplified this mindset through their rigorous training and disciplined approach to warfare. Similarly, as soldiers of Christ, we are called to be steadfast, prepared, and resilient, knowing that with God's strength, we can overcome any challenge.
Just as soldiers expect and train for combat, Christians must be spiritually prepared and vigilant to guard against the thief described in John 10:10. By being mentally resilient and strategically equipped through prayer, studying God's Word, and relying on the Holy Spirit, believers can stand firm and protect the abundant life that Jesus offers.
The Greek word "kleptés" (κλέπτης) describes "the thief" in John 10:10.
Understanding this term can give you deeper insights into the nature of the threats Jesus warns about and how you can protect yourself by living in alignment with His teachings.
By recognizing these dangers, you can better guard your heart and mind, ensuring that you remain steadfast in your faith and committed to the abundant life that Jesus offers.
Thieves Steal and Cause Damage Before You Even Know What’s Happening
Meaning of Kleptés (Thief) in John 10:10:
Literal Translation: One who steals. It reflects someone who takes what does not belong to them without the owner's knowledge or consent. This term emphasizes the secretive and deceitful nature of the act.
In a figurative sense, "kleptés" can describe someone who deceives or misleads others, robbing them of their peace. In the New Testament, the term "thief" often serves as a warning or call to awareness. It emphasizes the need to be vigilant against spiritual deception and moral failure, urging believers to stay focused on the truth and be prepared for the unexpected.
Jesus said, “The thief ONLY comes…” emphasizing their malicious intent and deliberate agenda. These individuals are fully aware of their actions, even if they pretend otherwise. The term refers to someone who steals secretly or operates in stealth mode.
In modern terms, such individuals can be likened to covert narcissists or sociopaths, who manipulate and deceive others while hiding their true motives.
They are also false teachers rooted in rigid beliefs, systems, and legalism rather than a genuine relationship with Christ. They may "know" about God intellectually, but their hearts do not truly know Him. Alternatively, they might have a relationship with the Holy Spirit but believe their relationship is exclusive and that very few people know Him as they do. Their deception is masked in superiority or ego, and they rarely have a true heart for others, aiming instead to fulfill an agenda. They may also disguise their true intentions with a religious facade to exploit others for material gain.
A word of warning: God can speak directly to you. Be very careful of anyone who asks for money to share the heart of Jesus. While it is important to give and support churches and ministries—we are called to be cheerful givers—be wary of those who charge for “words” from God or ask you to “sow a seed” to make a prophecy come true. Remember, you are a child of God, and the Lord Jesus can communicate with you directly. Many false teachers are using social media to spread their messages now that anyone can have a platform. Stay vigilant!
The context of John 10 includes Jesus' critique of those who failed to care for God's flock. He contrasts Himself, the Good Shepherd who gives life abundantly, with those who come only to steal, kill, and destroy. While Jesus does not explicitly name the Pharisees in this verse, the broader context suggests He is addressing the harmful influence of the religious leaders who were not guiding the people in truth and spirit. In biblical times, religious leaders had significant control. Similarly, the concept of a 'thief' today can apply to those in your life who have a profound influence or seek to control you.
IDENTIFYING A ‘THIEF’ IN YOUR LIFE
I believe the Lord is highlighting two groups of people right now: everyday individuals who subtly erode your emotions, leading to confusion and instability, and those who twist the Word of God for personal gain. The enemy thrives on confusion and distraction, but anything from Christ brings peace and assurance that you are on the right path. You must remain vigilant during this time! Here are some things to look out for:
An emotional or spiritual “thief” operates covertly, using trickery and deceit rather than open confrontation.
They might use silence as a weapon to keep you off guard and uncertain about their intentions. These individuals act like snakes, squeezing the life out of you before you realize what’s happening.
A key sign of such a thief is their disruptive influence, causing confusion, discord, and division rather than peace and unity. They prioritize their own needs and desires over genuinely caring for others' well-being. They love to catch you off guard, especially when your defenses are down or you're having a hard day. The purpose of a thief is to go unnoticed, and these emotional vampires and manipulators thrive on slyness and deceit. Their influence leads to a weakened faith, emotional fatigue, doubts, or a turning away from God. Be wary of those who consistently manipulate your feelings, leaving you emotionally drained and uncertain.
Often, you find yourself giving more to these individuals, only to end up with headaches, confusion, and chaos. Peace is almost nonexistent. Before understanding their true motives, you always feel like you're "bracing for impact" whenever you encounter them.
They avoid accountability, transparency, and correction, often justifying their actions to serve their interests. They engage in or promote unethical or immoral behaviors, living inconsistently with Christian values. Though they may wear a "mask" for a while, it will eventually fall. They pressure you to conform to their views and practices, even when it contradicts your convictions and the teachings of the Bible. The true nature of their spirit will always be revealed, often when they are cornered or exposed.
Some thieves will isolate you from other people, creating dependency on them alone. They will exploit you, and everything they do is shrouded in lies, half-truths, and deceit. There is often something "off" about them that is hard to pinpoint, but your spirit will alert you that something isn’t right. God will even give you dreams about them, so pay attention!
Emotional vultures usually have patterns that follow them. These individuals drain your energy, often leaving you feeling exhausted, manipulated, and undervalued. They often present themselves as perpetual victims, acting as if the world is out to harm them. This mindset allows them to deflect responsibility for their actions and garner sympathy and attention from others. They can appear charming and likable on the surface, which makes it difficult to see their true intentions. This charm is often a mask that hides their self-serving nature. Their constant need for attention and validation can consume your emotional resources, making it difficult to maintain your own well-being.
These individuals typically act in ways that serve their own interests, with little regard for the feelings or needs of others. They may feign concern, but their actions reveal a consistent pattern of putting themselves first. Remember, even Satan masquerades as an angel of light (2 Corinthians 11:14). This means that those who appear good and trustworthy on the surface can still have harmful intentions.
The ‘thief’ in your life takes what does not belong to them—your well-being, peace, and relationship with Christ—often causing harm and loss. Jesus warned us about such individuals in John 10:10. Do not be swayed by their words, even if they claim to be Christians.
Jesus taught us to judge people by their actions and the fruit they produce (Matthew 7:16-20). Ask yourself: do they bring discord and drama to your life, or do they foster peace, joy, and harmony? Jesus dealt with deceitful and harmful people by speaking the truth boldly, setting boundaries, and maintaining His focus on God's mission.
If these individuals are family members, friends, or business associates, you must be especially vigilant.
While separation may not always be possible, guard your heart and remain rooted in Christ, seeking His wisdom and strength to navigate these relationships. It’s important to limit the influence of these thieves, even if complete separation isn’t possible. Jesus had selective engagement during His walk on earth and chose His close companions carefully. He often withdrew from crowds to spend time in prayer and communion with God (Luke 5:16). It's crucial to heed the Lord's call for solitude and take time to be with Him when He prompts you. All these practices are vital for your spiritual life.
While we are called to love others, this love must be grounded in truth and wisdom. Loving someone doesn’t mean allowing them to harm you spiritually or emotionally. Engage with challenging individuals in a manner that minimizes negative impact. This might mean being polite and respectful without deeply involving them in your personal life.
In psychology, there is a term called the "gray rock" method, which involves making yourself as uninteresting and unresponsive as possible to avoid engaging with toxic individuals. Although this isn’t a biblical term, it aligns with Kingdom principles, and Jesus and Paul demonstrated similar wisdom in their teachings.
How does it work? Essentially, be downright boring to spiritual thieves, like a gray rock, and avoid revealing important details about your life. Keep your conversations at a surface level. Imagine a giant field with millions of gray pebbles and rocks—blend in like one of those when dealing with these people.
By not reacting emotionally or giving attention to their provocations, you can protect yourself from their manipulative behaviors. Jesus embodied this principle better than anyone. He knew when to confront and when to withdraw, often choosing silence or retreating to prayer rather than engaging in unproductive conflict. Paul also advised believers to be wise and discerning, avoiding unnecessary quarrels (2 Timothy 2:23-24). By following their example, we guard our hearts and maintain our peace, ensuring that our lives remain focused on God's purposes.
Jesus knew the importance of conserving His energy and attention for what truly mattered. By discerning when to engage and when to remain silent, He demonstrated wisdom and self-control.
This approach helps us avoid unnecessary conflicts and distractions, allowing us to stay focused on our spiritual growth and mission. Proverbs 4:23 says, "Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it." The heart is the epicenter of our emotions, thoughts, wholeness, desires, and intentions. Guarding our heart means being mindful of what we allow to influence us, ensuring that our inner life remains aligned with God's will and filled with His peace and love.
When we employ the gray rock method, we follow God’s example, guarding our hearts and staying rooted in our faith. We remain on offense against the “thief” instead of always playing defense. By doing this, we begin to experience life more abundantly.
It's often only when we dismantle, disarm, and disengage from those who threaten our relationship with Christ that we can fully see and appreciate the "fullness" He offers.
Deeper Meaning of "Steal, Kill, and Destroy"
STEAL:
Jesus emphasized "stealing" first for a reason. Stealing is often the initial step because it involves taking something valuable away. Spiritually, this means the enemy—whether Satan, false religious leaders, or harmful influences in your life—aims to take away truth, joy, peace, and spiritual security from believers. By stealing these essential elements, the foundation of a believer's faith can be weakened.
Implication: The act of stealing undermines one's sense of security and possession of what is rightfully theirs. Spiritually, this can manifest as doubt, fear, confusion, and loss of faith. Thieves in your life are like spiritual and emotional embezzlers, taking from you without you even realizing what has been stolen. Remember, in John 10:10, Jesus is referring to actual people, not Satan.
KILL:
Literal and Figurative: Killing can be both literal (leading people to physical harm or death) and figurative (destroying spiritual life). Once the thief has stolen the essentials of faith and spiritual strength, the next step is to kill. This represents an attempt to end spiritual vitality and connection with God.
Implication: This could mean the destruction of hope, purpose, and the spiritual zeal of believers. It signifies a deeper level of harm than stealing, as it aims to completely end spiritual life.
Destroy:
Complete Annihilation: The term "destroy" in John 10:10 goes beyond mere killing—it implies total annihilation, leaving nothing behind. In a spiritual context, this means the enemy aims to obliterate one's relationship with God, plunging a person into total despair and separation from divine grace. Though the Lord remains present, by this point, the individual may no longer perceive the goodness of Jesus Christ.
Implication: This represents the ultimate goal of the enemy—to eradicate a person's faith and spiritual heritage entirely, making them believe there is no possibility of recovery or restoration. However, Jesus' words provide hope and assurance: “The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.” Despite the enemy's efforts, the Lord is sovereign and will save His children. He leaves the ninety-nine sheep to come after the one.
The Enemy's Strategy
Steal First: The enemy often starts by subtly undermining a believer's faith, using emotional thieves and deceptive individuals. By introducing doubt, discouragement, and false teachings through these sources, the enemy begins to erode the believer's confidence in God.
When Satan tempted Jesus in the desert, he even used scripture to deceive. However, Jesus countered Satan by accurately quoting scripture, demonstrating the importance of knowing the Word of God deeply and allowing His truth to bear witness in your heart. This deep understanding helps believers discern truth from deception and stand firm in their faith.
Progress to Killing: As this subtle theft progresses, the impact becomes more severe, leading to a loss of spiritual vitality. The enemy's tactics, facilitated by manipulative people, can result in spiritual lethargy, a loss of passion for God, and a weakened spiritual state.
Ultimately Destroy: The final aim is total destruction, leaving the believer in a state of complete spiritual desolation, without hope or connection to God. The enemy seeks to use emotional manipulators to achieve this total annihilation, but Jesus still provides us hope. Nothing can stand in our King’s way.
Standing Against the Enemy
To access the abundant life Jesus offers, believers must be vigilant and fully armed with spiritual defenses, as outlined in Ephesians 6:10-18.
This involves:
Wearing the Full Armor of God: This includes the belt of truth, breastplate of righteousness, gospel of peace, shield of faith, helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God.
Being Vigilant: Constant awareness and readiness to stand against the schemes of the enemy. This includes discernment to recognize false teachings and religious legalism.
Persevering in Faith: Holding firm to one’s faith even when faced with opposition from those rooted in old mindsets or religious traditions. This perseverance is crucial for spiritual breakthroughs.
Challenges from Religious Mindsets
Jesus often clashed with the religious leaders of His day, who were entrenched in legalism and tradition. These are the types of people who might worship their religion more than the One True Living God. They prioritize their church affiliation over sharing the heart of Jesus.
For believers today, standing firm against similar mindsets involves:
Upholding the True Gospel: Differentiating between human traditions and the true teachings of Christ, and understanding that the narrow path requires following the Lord's guidelines.
Resisting Legalism: Emphasizing grace, love, and the transformational power of the Holy Spirit over rigid adherence to rules and customs, while still honoring the principles set by God.
Cultivating a Personal Relationship with the Trinity: Knowing God the Father, Jesus the Son, and equally the Holy Spirit.
Jesus sent the Holy Spirit to guide us. The Holy Spirit is a Person, not an abstract force, and He shows us the way. It's not enough to just know Father God and Jesus the Son; we must also develop a relationship with the Holy Spirit.
On a personal level, to discern whether a person is right for you, evaluate them by their fruit. Weigh every person and situation against the fruit of the Spirit—love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control.
Finally, the most crucial weapon you possess as a follower of Christ is your sword—the Word of God. Regular, systematic study of the Bible is essential for understanding the teachings of Jesus Christ. By doing so, you can discern and evaluate every situation and person according to the Scriptures.
Supporting Scriptures:
Ephesians 6:17 (NIV): "Take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God."
The term "machaira" (sword) refers to a large knife or short sword used by soldiers in close combat. It was lethal. Similarly, the Word of God is both a defensive and offensive weapon for believers.
It defends against spiritual attacks and can be used proactively to declare truth and combat falsehoods.
This metaphor emphasizes the precision, power, and effectiveness of scripture in spiritual warfare. Just as a physical sword can be used to defend and attack, the Word of God serves as a spiritual weapon that believers can wield to stand against the enemy’s schemes and proclaim God’s truth.
Hebrews 4:12 (NIV): "For the word of God is alive and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart."
The "machaira" (sword) in Hebrews 4:12 is often compared to the Roman gladius, a short, double-edged sword or dagger used by Roman soldiers. The gladius, about 18-24 inches long, was known for its effectiveness in close combat due to its ability to cut and thrust efficiently, inflicting more damage than a longer sword.
It was designed for maximum impact in tight, close-quarters fighting (here’s a picture).
Just as a double-edged sword can make precise and deep cuts, the Word of God can penetrate deeply into a person's innermost being, dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow. The soul generally refers to the mind, will, and emotions, while the spirit is the part of a person that connects with God.
The Word can discern and separate these closely related elements, highlighting what is spiritual and what is merely soulish or carnal. The Word of God exposes and evaluates the thoughts and intentions of the heart. It reveals true motives and desires, often bringing conviction and prompting transformation.
As Christians, the sword we carry is powerful and life-changing. It's not just about reading scripture; it’s very effective when spoken aloud. You can use it to play offense and defense. When panic and fear set in, start speaking the Word of God out loud and watch what happens. If you’re in a situation or place where you can’t speak, write or pray in your spirit and watch the enemy flee. Remember, God's Word is not a stale, outdated history book; scripture makes it clear: “For the word of God is ALIVE and ACTIVE!”
Prophetic Declaration
Beloved, the Lord says He has come that you may have life and life to the full. In this season, God is calling you to experience His abundance in every area of your life—spiritually, emotionally, physically, and with relationships. Do not settle for mediocrity.
Step into the fullness of what Christ has prepared for you. It’s time to go ALL IN!
The enemy seeks to destroy your dreams and visions, but the Holy Spirit has placed a greater destiny within you. Listen to His voice, follow His guidance, and you will see doors open that no man can shut. Your calling is unique and vital for this time.
Expect an overflow of blessings and FAVOR this season. As you remain faithful and aligned with God’s Word, you will see His hand move mightily on your behalf. He is pouring out blessings that surpass your understanding, filling your life with His goodness and favor.
The Holy Spirit also spoke the words “receive” and “reconciliation” to my spirit. Learning to receive from God begins with an open heart and a posture of humility. It involves trusting in His goodness and believing that He desires to bless you abundantly. Spend time in His presence, immerse yourself in His Word, and be attentive to the promptings of the Holy Spirit. As you grow in your relationship with Christ, you will learn to recognize His voice and receive His guidance, blessings, and love. Remember, God's gifts are not earned but freely given to those who seek Him with a sincere heart.
Reconciliation means restoring harmony and unity where there has been division or estrangement. It involves mending broken relationships, making peace, and bringing together what was once separated. Biblically, reconciliation refers to the restoration of the relationship between God and humanity through Jesus Christ, as well as the healing of relationships among people.
God is calling you to a deeper, more intimate relationship with Him. If there have been barriers, sins, or doubts that have created distance, now is the time to seek forgiveness and renew your commitment to Jesus Christ.
Embrace His guidance and let His love restore and strengthen your bond with Him. Reconciliation also means making peace with yourself. Let go of past regrets, self-condemnation, and negative self-talk. Accept God’s forgiveness and love, allowing it to transform your heart and mind.
Do not fear the challenges ahead, for the Lord Almighty is with you. God’s strength is made perfect in your weakness. Be courageous and steadfast, knowing that He has already overcome the world. Stand firm in your faith and watch as Jesus turns your trials into triumphs. There is a turning point that is happening in your life right now.
This is an inside-out job. This is a season of renewal and rejuvenation, where old things pass away and all things become new.
God says, “I am calling My people to greater unity and love. The abundant life I offer extends to your relationships and community. Love one another deeply, forgive freely, and build each other up. In this unity, you will reflect My love to the world. Embrace the power of the Holy Spirit in your life. He is your guide, your comforter, and your source of strength. Lean into His leading and allow Him to empower you to live victoriously. You are not alone; My Spirit dwells within you, equipping you for every good work.”
Beloved, as you step into the months ahead, stand firm in your faith. Wield the sword of the Spirit with power and conviction against the schemes of the enemy. This is your time to advance the kingdom of God with boldness and unwavering courage.
Be brave, confident, steadfast, and victorious. The Lord is with you, and His promises are sure. This is your season to thrive and to see the fullness of God's promises unfold in your life.
Keep Calm and Carry On
This week, I studied God's message to Ahaz in Isaiah 7:4, delivered by the prophet Isaiah. Ahaz was in a tough spot: the kings of Aram and Israel had joined forces against Judah, threatening to destroy it. In the midst of all this fear and chaos, God sent a message of comfort and assurance.
God said, "Tell him, 'Be careful, stay calm and don't be afraid. Don't lose heart...'" (NIV). It reminded me of those "Keep Calm and Carry On" shirts from the early 2000s. I didn’t realize that God said those words first.
Here are some other translations of Isaiah 7:4. I wanted to share them with you because they might touch your heart in a new way.
"Tell him to stop worrying. He doesn't need to fear..." (NLT)
"Tell him, ‘Be careful, be quiet, do not fear, and do not lose heart…’" (ESV)
"Calm down and be quiet. Do not be afraid or lose heart over these two smoldering stubs of firewood” (BSB)
"Pay attention and be still. Do not be afraid, and do not let your heart be troubled by these two firebrands” (Aramaic Bible)
"Tell him to stay alert, stay calm, and not be frightened. The anger of these kings is like the smoke from two smoldering sticks of wood” (GNT)
It's as if God is saying, "Don't worry about those two burnt-out logs—they're all smoke and no fire!" In other words, what the enemy is attempting in your life right now might seem alarming or significant, but God has it under control. The situation might appear concerning, but it’s all smoke and mirrors. Stay calm and carry on!
God called the kings "two smoldering stubs of firewood" because there’s nothing of substance left in them. They are useless and don’t pose a real threat. God already sees them as defeated because He’s taken care of the matter. The Lord’s message to Ahaz is the same for you — no matter how threatening these enemies might seem, they're all bark and no bite. God's got this and you have nothing to fear.
So, relax, keep calm and carry on…
What This Means for You
Just like Ahaz faced huge threats, we too face situations that make us afraid and anxious. God's message to Ahaz is still relevant for us today:
Stay Calm: In tough times, keeping a calm and steady heart helps us see God's guidance and make good decisions. Trust the Lord to handle the matter.
Don’t Be Afraid: Trusting in God's presence and power can help us overcome fear. He is bigger than any challenge we face.
Trust God's Promises: Knowing that God is in charge and His plans are for our good can give us confidence and peace, even when things look bad.
Remember, the Lord loves you very much! He wants an abundant life for you, and sometimes it gets harder before it gets easier. Jesus is going to help! Don't give up! 🩷
