The Daily + Weekly by Vince Miller

Do you feel like you are walking a spiritual tightrope? Remember to go to the website and grab the 1 Samuel Scripture Journal today so you are ready to go when we begin! If we live by the Spirit, let us also keep in step with the Spirit. Let us not become conceited, provoking one another, envying one another. — Galatians 5:25-26 This verse might seem like an add-on, but it is not. Paul is explaining the spiritual tightrope we walk each day—the tightrope between an old form of arrogance and a new form of arrogance. The cliff on one side is a life directed by proud fleshly desires. The cliff, on the other side, is a life lived by the Spirit but tempted by a righteous form of pride that takes credit for what the Spirit does. You see, once you have been a believer long enough, you will learn to walk in the Spirit. But sometimes, as we are walking in the Spirit, we will feel a sense of pride for the fruit that is produced through us. We have to be careful at this point because righteous arrogance is just as insidious as unrighteous arrogance. Thus, we have to keep our step as we walk this tightrope to ensure we are not tipping either way. On the one side, we tip into selfish arrogance, and on the other, we tip into self-righteous arrogance. So, are you watching your step as you live by the Spirit? #SpiritLedLiving #HumilityOverPride #WalkingInFaith ASK THIS: Reflecting on your own spiritual journey, have you ever found yourself tipping towards either side of the tightrope described—either into selfish arrogance or self-righteous pride? How can you actively guard against these pitfalls and maintain a balanced, Spirit-led walk in your daily life? Think about a recent experience where you sensed the Holy Spirit working through you to produce fruit or bring about positive change. How can you ensure that, instead of taking credit for these actions, you humbly acknowledge the Spirit's role and give glory to God? What practical steps can you take to cultivate a heart of humility and gratitude in your spiritual walk? DO THIS: Walk the tightrope and give attention to your pride. PRAY THIS: Father, help me to walk humbly in the Spirit, avoiding the pitfalls of both selfish arrogance and self-righteous pride. May I always acknowledge Your work in my life and give glory to Your name. Amen. PLAY THIS: Obedience.

Have you truly killed those passions and desires? I want to shout out to all my brothers from Family Community Church in San Jose, California. We had a great time yesterday, and I pray this time of restoration was a blessing for you. Also, remember to go to the website and grab the 1 Samuel Scripture Journal today so you are ready to go when we begin! And those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires. — Galatians 5:24 The word that stands out to me in this text is the word crucified because crucifixion is violent. Crucifixion is still one of the most brutal forms of execution in all of history. If you have ever seen Mel Gibson's "The Passion of Christ," you might remember how chilling and brutal this scene was. Crucifixion involves nailing a victim to a wooden cross, leading to a slow death from asphyxiation, exhaustion, and shock. The excruciating pain arises from both the piercing of nails and the prolonged agony as the body struggles to breathe while suspended. Victims must push on the nails in their feet and pull on those in their wrists to inhale, intensifying the torment. Crucifixion was always public, heightening the psychological suffering. This combination of physical agony, prolonged torment, and public shame makes it a fierce and disturbing form of execution. Now, apply this imagery in the way Paul does here. He says if we belong to Jesus, we have (past tense) crucified the flesh with its passions and desires. And herein lies the core problem with believers who struggle with repetitive patterns of sin. They attempt to change by altering their behaviors. And there is nothing wrong with altering behaviors if you also nail, crucify, kill, and drain the very life from the source of those behaviors, which is your old fleshly passions and desires. Thus, we are left with a very pointed question. What desire is still living that you need to kill? Is it a sexual desire? A drive for retribution? Is it a passion for wealth and success? A desire for control? Whatever it is, you better be killing it, or it will be killing you. #CrucifyDesires #KillSin #SpiritualTransformation ASK THIS: Reflect on a desire or passion in your life that you know is contrary to God's will. What steps can you take today to begin crucifying that desire and aligning your heart with God's purposes? Think about a repetitive pattern of sin you struggle with. How can you go beyond merely modifying your behavior to truly crucifying the root of that sin, allowing God's transformative power to bring lasting change in your life? DO THIS: Kill one old desire that needs to be killed. PRAY THIS: Lord, help me to truly understand the depth of what it means to crucify my fleshly desires, and empower me to take decisive action in aligning my heart with Your will. Grant me the strength and courage to put to death those passions that hinder my walk with You, so that I may experience the fullness of freedom and life in Christ. Amen. PLAY THIS: The Passion of Christ (Crucifixion Scene)

Do you want more fruit in your life? We are going to be starting a new book of the Bible soon. We are returning to the story of three men: Samuel the Prophet and Kings Saul and David. The book of 1 Samuel tells the story of Israel's transition from a theocracy to a monarchy, marked by intrigue, betrayal, and divine intervention. Through the lives of Samuel, Saul, and David, it vividly illustrates the complexities of leadership, the consequences of disobedience, and the continuing faithfulness of God amidst human sin. So go to the website and grab the 1 Samuel Scripture Journal today so you are ready to go when we begin! But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law. — Galatians 5:22-23 Paul's words serve as a stark contrast to the behaviors of the flesh he discussed earlier. He urges believers to embrace the blessings of the "fruit of the Spirit." These qualities, however, are not just positive signs but tangible manifestations of a believer who is guided by the Holy Spirit's desires. But here's the issue with this list. Many believers consider these items a list of things they need to do. Therefore, they aim to be more loving, joyful, peaceful, etc. And yes, it is good to be more loving, joyful, peaceful, and the like. But if you reduce the outputs of the Spirit to mere behaviors, you have now engaged in the same legalism Paul has argued against throughout this letter. The goal is not legalism by righteous behaviors but liberty by surrendering to the desires of the Holy Spirit. When we surrender to the desires of the Spirit, fruit is a byproduct of our behaviors. The best part is that it's not just one fruit but many and all fruits simultaneously because they are not our fruit. It's his fruit. So, how do we cultivate this fruit in our lives? Start by examining your behaviors and discerning the true source of your desires. Ask yourself: Are my thoughts and actions aligned with the Spirit's desires or my own? If you already know the answer, make a conscious choice to follow the Spirit's leading, and you'll bear fruit. If unsure, seek guidance through Scripture, prayer, or wise counsel from a fellow believer. Then, once you have clarity, surrender to the Spirit's direction, and you'll witness abundant fruitfulness. #SpiritualFruitfulness #SurrenderToTheSpirit #CultivateTheFruit ASK THIS: Reflect on a recent decision or action in your life. Was it motivated by the desires of the Holy Spirit or your own? How might consciously surrendering to the Spirit's guidance have impacted the outcome? Consider a relationship in your life where you desire to see more fruitfulness. How can you align your thoughts and actions with the qualities of love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control, allowing the Spirit to work through you in that relationship? DO THIS: Assess your desires then act and be fruitful. PRAY THIS: Father, help me to surrender my desires to the leading of your Spirit, so that I may bear fruit that reflects your character and brings glory to your name. Guide me in aligning my thoughts and actions with the qualities of love, joy, peace, and all the fruits of your Spirit. Amen. PLAY THIS: Nothing Else + The Heart of Worship.

Do you feel like you are missing out on something in your spiritual life? We are going to be starting a new book of the Bible soon. We are returning to the story of three men: Samuel the Prophet and Kings Saul and David. The book of 1 Samuel tells the story of Israel's transition from a theocracy to a monarchy, marked by intrigue, betrayal, and divine intervention. Through the lives of Samuel, Saul, and David, it vividly illustrates the complexities of leadership, the consequences of disobedience, and the continuing faithfulness of God amidst human sin. So go to the website and grab the 1 Samuel Scripture Journal today so you are ready to go when we begin! Now the works of the flesh are evident: sexual immorality, impurity, sensuality, idolatry, sorcery, enmity, strife, jealousy, fits of anger, rivalries, dissensions, divisions, envy, drunkenness, orgies, and things like these. I warn you, as I warned you before, that those who do such things will not inherit the kingdom of God. — Galatians 5:19-21 Paul clarifies the difference between a believer who lives directed by the Spirit and one who lives directed by the flesh. The core issue is corrupt desires. However, the problem is that we cannot see corrupt desires; we can only see their outputs. So Paul does this here: He lists fifteen seeable proofs of our unseeable corrupt desires. They can be grouped into four categories: Group One: Impure Private Desires Sexual Immorality Impurity Sensuality Group Two: False Public Worship Idolatry Sorcery Group Three: Destructive Interpersonal Behaviors Enmity Strife Jealousy Fits of anger Rivalries Dissensions Divisions Envy Group Four: Excessive Personal Indulgence Drunkenness Orgies But what is most interesting is how Paul ends this long list of fleshy evidence. He states, "I warn you, as I warned you before, that those who do such things will not inherit the kingdom of God." His point of emphasis is not about missing out on inheriting a future kingdom. It's about missing out on experiencing a present kingdom (or present way of life with God) where God's kingship rules our every thought, action, and decision. In other words, living the Christian life directed by carnal desires resulting in carnal actions is to miss out on the leadership of Jesus and the direction of the Spirit. So don't miss out on the Spirit's life. The Spirit's desires are greater than those old carnal ones. Living your life like a "Carnal Christian" is a misnomer. Don't live this way. Kill those old behaviors and desires, and invite the Holy Spirit to give you strong and new godly desires. #KingdomLiving #SpiritLedLife #CarnalChristianity ASK THIS: Reflecting on your own life, which of the "fleshy evidence" mentioned by Paul do you struggle with the most? How can you actively work to replace those desires with godly ones? Consider a recent decision or action you took that was influenced by carnal desires. How might that situation have played out differently if you had sought the guidance of the Holy Spirit and aligned your actions with God's kingdom principles? DO THIS: Invite the Spirit to give you strong godly desires. PRAY THIS: Father, I pray for strength to overcome my carnal desires and to walk in the guidance of your Holy Spirit, embracing the fullness of life in your kingdom today. Help me to continually seek your will and to live in alignment with your ways. Amen. PLAY THIS: Holy Spirit.

Are you feeling weighed down by the expectations of others or limited by your inadequacy? We are going to be starting a new book of the Bible soon. We are transporting back in time to the story of three men: Samuel the Prophet and Kings Saul and David. The book of 1 Samuel tells the story of Israel's transition from a theocracy to a monarchy, marked by intrigue, betrayal, and divine intervention. Through the lives of Samuel, Saul, and David, it vividly illustrates the complexities of leadership, the consequences of disobedience, and the continuing faithfulness of God amidst human sin. So go to the website and grab the 1 Samuel Scripture Journal today so that you are ready to go when we begin! But if you are led by the Spirit, you are not under the law. — Galatians 5:18 Living by the Holy Spirit means living in freedom—but it's not freedom to do whatever you want whenever you want. It is freedom from being a slave to obedience by laws, which reduced obedience to precepts that try to win God's approval. Paul reminds us that as followers of Christ, our primary guide is not the old way but a new way—not walking by the Law but walking by the Spirit. We are no longer confined to a static checklist of do's and don'ts. Instead, we enjoy a dynamic relationship with God. When we allow the Spirit to lead us, we step into a new experience of boundless freedom. But this newfound freedom is not the absence of rules; it is the presence of someone far greater—a life lived with the power and person of the Holy Spirit. It's about being led by the Spirit in every decision, every relationship, and every aspect of our lives. When we surrender to his guidance, we discover a sense of purpose and fulfillment that transcends the old way and earthly constraints. Yet many new believers, and even those of us who have been followers for a while, don't discover the wonder of the Holy Spirit's power and person. We live lives led by other "spirits," like the spirit of others' expectations, the spirit of our own inadequacies, the spirit of our past, and the spirit of personal effort. But none of these spirits lead to freedom. That is a life lived in bondage to the wrong spirit that leads to slavery. Today, you are called to a life of freedom. A life free from the spirits that hold you back. You are called to be led by the person and power of the Holy Spirit. So, instead of heeding the whispers of those other spirits, make a choice today. Choose to listen to the Holy Spirit. Choose to live a life of freedom. Holy Spirit, lead us today. Silence the other voices and their whispers. I choose to be led by only you today. Amen. #SpiritLedLiving #FreedomInChrist #BreakTheChains #HolySpiritGuidance #LiveInFreedom ASK THIS: Reflect on a time when you felt weighed down by the expectations of others or limited by your own inadequacies. How did this impact your decisions and actions? What steps can you take today to break free from these constraints and live more fully in the freedom of the Holy Spirit? Consider the voices or "spirits" that often influence your thoughts and actions—the expectations of others, feelings of inadequacy, past experiences, or personal efforts. How can you discern the voice of the Holy Spirit amidst these competing influences? What practical steps can you implement to intentionally listen and respond to the leading of the Holy Spirit in your daily life? DO THIS: Invite the Spirit to speak more clearly to you. PRAY THIS: Holy Spirit, I surrender my heart to Your guidance today, freeing me from the weight of expectations and inadequacies. Lead me into the boundless freedom You offer, guiding every step and decision with Your wisdom and power. Amen. PLAY THIS: Spirit of the Living God.

Do you sense the war that's raging within you? Our call out today goes to all the men from Texas I spent time with this weekend at Rough Creek Lodge & Resort. I love you guys. Thanks for hosting me at this incredible location. For the desires of the flesh are against the Spirit, and the desires of the Spirit are against the flesh, for these are opposed to each other, to keep you from doing the things you want to do. — Galatians 5:17 This verse describes one of the harsh realities that often rudely awakens many new believers. We learn that Jesus's free gift of eternal life doesn't free us from our temporal struggles. Within us continues to rage an ongoing war. The war within is a specific battle, one of the desires. One is a longing to fulfill our human desires, and the other is the longing of the Spirit and his desires. It's important to clarify that this is not a war between our flesh and our spirit. Rather, this is a war between our flesh and His Spirit, which by nature infers victory is within our reach. You see, at the moment of our salvation, our eternal address was changed, but we were also given a divine gift, the Holy Spirit, who now resides within us. The Holy Spirit is the person of God who possesses the power of God. He equips us to combat the desires of our flesh as we await our ultimate salvation. Without the Holy Spirit, we would lead a life of daily defeat. But with the Spirit, we can engage in a daily battle. By learning to walk by the Spirit (as Paul mentioned in the previous verse), we can discover a path that leads to satisfaction in God, not in the flesh. This means that we can experience day-to-day victory when we obey the Spirit's will and desires. So today, if you feel like a war is raging inside you. You are right. There is one. It's a battle between your fleshly desires and God's will for you. To overcome this, you are going to have to do some things differently, which Paul is going to make clear in the coming verses. But for now, do this. Start by recognizing your will and the Spirit's will. Differentiating and discerning between these two wills is the first step to waging and winning the war within. #WarWithin #SpiritualBattle #FleshvsSpirit ASK THIS: How can you actively discern between your own desires and the prompting of the Holy Spirit in your daily decisions and actions? What practical steps can you take today to align your will with God's will, thus gaining victory in the ongoing battle within your soul? DO THIS: Start discerning the Spirit's will. PRAY THIS: Father, grant me the wisdom and strength to discern and overcome the desires of my flesh, as I surrender to the leading of Your Holy Spirit within me. Guide me in walking faithfully on the path of victory over the internal battles that wage within my soul. PLAY THIS: Whatever Your Plan Is.

Are you walking right today? But I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh. — Galatians 5:15 For the rest of this chapter and much of the next, Paul will show the Galatians the right way to act. This is an example of great discipleship. Up to this point in the book, he has: Addressed false Gospel teachings. Shared his transformation through the Gospel. Highlighted tension between Jews and Gentiles regarding the Gospel. Centralized justification by faith in the Gospel. Demonstrated the Law's role in revealing the need for the Gospel. Pointed to the promise of the Covenant and the Gospel's fulfillment in Christ. Emphasized freedom from the Law through the Gospel's revelation. That is a comprehensive discipleship method. It reminds me of discipling my children. I have to say it, then say it again, then say it again but differently, then show them how, then get angry with them, then someone else tells them, and they finally listen. In education and psychology, this is affectionately called the "Rule of Seven." It suggests that people typically need to encounter information around seven times before it sticks in their minds. So go back and notice how many items are in that list above. Seven! Yet, Paul's about to introduce an eighth point, and this one's vital. He's not just going to outline what they shouldn't do; he'll also emphasize what they should do. This move by Paul is great discipleship. Great disciplemakers, teachers, and parents know how to do this. They know how to teach both what not to do and what to do. The operative line that Paul wants the believer to do is "Walk by the Spirit." When Paul uses the word "walk" in this context, he employs it metaphorically. He is using this word to describe the way believers should conduct themselves. But catch this: In the Old Testament, there were clear commands about how to "walk" and "conduct" yourselves. Numerous times in the Old Testament, followers were instructed to "walk according to the statutes of the Law." (Exodus 16:4, Leviticus 18:4, Jeremiah 44:23, Ezekiel 5:5-6). Even in the central declaration of the Jewish faith, the "Shema" of Deuteronomy 6:4-9 commanded teaching and walking in God's commands. Can you discern the internal conflict that these believers were having? Jewish believers only understood God as revealed by the Law. They were commanded repeatedly to walk by it. They were so used to one way of walking that they could not see another way. Paul is telling them they shouldn't walk in the old way because there is a new way. As you will see later in this chapter, Paul will parallel walking according to the law with walking according to the flesh. Without giving a lot away in the coming verses. This is why people get stuck in repetitive issues with sin. They don't see another way to walk. They keep walking in a new life in an old way. But here's the deal: we must find a new way to walk. And the only way to do this is not by our power. It's by the Spirit's power. To discover how to do that, you will have to show up for a few more days. #WalkByTheSpirit #SpiritLedLife #NewWayToWalk ASK THIS: How can you practically incorporate "walking by the Spirit" into your daily routine and decision-making process? Reflect on a recent situation where you relied on your own strength rather than the Spirit's guidance. How might the outcome have been different if you had surrendered to the Spirit's leading? DO THIS: Learn a new way to walk. PRAY THIS: Father, guide me today to walk in step with Your Spirit, that I may honor You in all I do and experience the abundant life You have promised. Grant me the wisdom and strength to surrender my will to Yours, trusting in Your guidance for every step of my journey. Amen. PLAY THIS: Walk With You.

Are you caught in the crossfire of a battle over words? Today, our call-out goes to Craig Rogers from Long Island, NY. Thanks for your encouragement! But if you bite and devour one another, watch out that you are not consumed by one another. — Galatians 5:15 This verse gives us new insight into all the issues Paul is trying to address in Galatia. The churches were engaged in a civil war. They were biting, devouring, and consuming one another with their words and opinions. Conflicts and divisions can be disheartening in our family or in the church. Once they begin, they can quickly escalate, especially if our selfish motivations take control. This is precisely why, in the preceding verses, Paul emphasized the importance of love as a motive. In addition, Paul will guide us in a new, more loving way in the following verses. But right here, we are reminded of the crushing and consuming power of words. The old adage, "Sticks and stones may break my bones, but words will never hurt me," is a lie. Words do hurt. They are weapons that wound, leave lasting scars, and permanently damage relationships. When I was a child, I overheard a statement my biological father said one day to my mother one day in an argument. He was unaware I heard it, but I will never forget it. I remember every detail of this day because what he said left such a pronounced scar. From his truck, he yelled to my mother, "I don't want to spend time with him. You spend time with him!" and then he drove off. These words hurt and marked one of the last times I would spend time with him. Give attention to your words today. Don't bite, devour, and consume people. Speak the truth, but say it in love. And if there is something you need to rectify, repent quickly before a nasty wound leaves a permanent scar in a relationship with someone you love. #SpeakLife, #WordsMatter, #LoveInAction ASK THIS: Reflecting on your recent interactions, were there moments when your words may have unintentionally caused harm or division? How can you proactively seek reconciliation and restoration in those relationships? Consider a time when you experienced the impact of someone else's hurtful words. How can that experience shape the way you choose to speak to others, especially in moments of conflict or tension? DO THIS: Give attention to your words. PRAY THIS: Father, grant me the wisdom and humility to speak words that build up and encourage, rather than tear down and wound. May Your love guide my tongue, leading me to reconciliation and healing in all my relationships. Amen. PLAY THIS: Speak.

What drives your action? Your love or Christ's love? Today, our call-out goes to Craig Rogers from Long Island, NY. Thanks for your encouragement! For the whole law is fulfilled in one word: "You shall love your neighbor as yourself." — Galatians 5:14 This is an interesting line from Paul because, throughout this letter, he has been referring to the law and the works of the law negatively. But here, he makes an abrupt turn. He encourages obedience to the law summed up in a single command. So why this change? He does this only because he views the law through the life of Jesus, who fulfilled it. In Jesus's fulfillment of the entire law, we are freed to love. In loving others, we embody Jesus's love because his love sustains and empowers us to love ourselves and others rightly. Returning to the previous text, this all hinges on what motivates our love. Is our love motivated by selfish intent or selfless intent? Do we love our neighbor with our selfish love, or do we love our neighbor with his selfless love? There is a vast difference between these two motives. This is the motivational tightrope we walk every day, and the hope is that all our motivation is driven to love others perfectly from his perfect love working through us. So go, love people today. But love them differently. Look at them and love them by his love, not your love. Love them selflessly, not selfishly. Love them like Jesus loved them, and I pray all your actions will reflect more of him and less of yourself. #ChristlikeLove #SelflessAction #MotivatedByLove ASK THIS: Reflect on a recent interaction with someone. Did your actions reflect selfish love or Christ's selfless love? How could you have responded differently to align more closely with Christ's example? Think about a challenging relationship in your life. How might intentionally choosing to love that person with Christ's love instead of your own impact the dynamics of the relationship? What steps can you take to embody Christ's love more fully in that relationship? DO THIS: Love like Jesus. Selflessly. PRAY THIS: Lord, help me to love others with the same selfless love that You have shown me, guiding my actions to reflect Your heart for humanity. May Your love flow through me, transforming my motives and empowering me to love others as You have loved me. Amen. PLAY THIS: For God So Loved.

Do you rightly understand the freedom you have in Christ? Today, our call-out goes to David Fortney from Sidney, OH. Thanks for your support! For you were called to freedom, brothers. Only do not use your freedom as an opportunity for the flesh, but through love serve one another. — Galatians 5:13 This potent verse by Paul outlines three key ideas: liberty, license, and love. These concepts are crucial to understanding the spiritual life and the potential pitfalls that can lead us astray. Liberty Believers have incredible spiritual liberty. Christ has set us free from slavery to sin. However, our freedom is threatened by the call of legalism. Legalism exchanges those old rusty shackles of sin for the new shiny shackles of our works. While we have incredible liberty, we walk a fine line every day between the call of our old life driven by self-centered sin and the call of our new life driven by our self-centered works. In both cases, the voice of our self-centeredness persuades us. One is the call of disobedience, and the other is the call of obedience by my works. License Liberty is not a license to do anything we want. Think of it like being a newly licensed driver: you have the freedom to drive, but it comes with responsibilities. Just as we have rules of the road to keep us safe, there are boundaries to our freedom in Christ. On one side, there's the danger of indulging in lawless lusts of the flesh. Conversely, there's the temptation of legalism, trying to earn our standing with God through our efforts. Love Then there is love. Love is the driving motivation for enjoying our liberty and the license. When aligned with God's love, love drives us to mind the boundaries. But we cannot love without knowing God's love. We must accept his love and then, by his love, serve others from his love. We are merely a conduit for this incredible resource. And note: It's how we love that exposes what we know about our liberty and how we mind the boundaries of our license. If this has convicted you in any way today, consider one of these steps today: Evaluate your motives and avoid abusing liberty through selfish sin or works-based effort. Set boundaries for yourself and steer clear of legalism and licentiousness. Allow yourself to be loved by God and then share this love with others. #FreedomInChrist, #LibertyVsLicense, #LoveDrivenLife ASK THIS: Reflect on a recent situation where you may have struggled to balance your freedom in Christ with the temptation to indulge in sinful desires or rely on your own efforts. What steps can you take to align your actions more closely with God's principles of love and righteousness? Consider how your understanding of God's love has influenced the way you interact with others. Are there areas in your life where you can more effectively demonstrate God's love by serving others selflessly and without reservation? DO THIS: Live in freedom and love. PRAY THIS: Father, grant me the wisdom to discern between true freedom in Christ and the deceptive allure of legalism and license. Fill me with Your love, Lord, so that I may serve others with humility and grace, reflecting Your selfless love in all I do. Amen. PLAY THIS: Freedom.

Is it okay for a Christian to use strong language? Today, our call-out goes to David Garrett from Pasadena, MD. Thanks for your support! I wish those who unsettle you would emasculate themselves! — Galatians 5:12 There are a few times in Scripture where we encounter very strong language. This is one of those accounts, if not the most vivid of all accounts. But I would contest: this is not categorically strong language. It's extreme hyperbole (or exaggeration) that leaves room for imagination. Paul is doing something strategic. He is working out their logic. Paul, seasoned at debate, is playing out their theory regarding circumcision. In other words, if these people so adamantly support circumcision because they believe it will enhance a believer's experience, why just trim it up; cut that thing off. Paul intends to illustrate the absurd nature of this religious ritual. If circumcision could have enhanced their relationship with God, then there would have been no need for Jesus. However, if it could by some means improve their relationship with God, why not cut the whole thing off? The progression of this logic suggests they would be even more holy. I would put to task people who suggest it's okay because this text does not give us permission to curse. But if we were to emulate what Paul did here, it would permit us to play out flawed logic from woke teachers and use hyperbole to illustrate it that might be graphic and vivid. But Paul is not permitting us to curse. In fact, this same man wrote other letters instructing believers to do the opposite. I have included those texts below. So, to all my brothers who served in the military or spent time in prison and learned the F-word was a noun, verb, adjective, or adverb, you might want to find some more edifying words. Let no corrupting talk come out of your mouths, but only such as is good for building up, as fits the occasion, that it may give grace to those who hear. — Ephesians 4:29 Let there be no filthiness nor foolish talk nor crude joking, which are out of place, but instead let there be thanksgiving. — Ephesians 5:4 #ChristianLanguage #TongueTaming #SacredSpeech #WordsOfLife #GracefulCommunication ASK THIS: How can we balance authenticity and reverence in our speech, especially when faced with situations that might provoke strong emotions? Reflect on a time when you've been tempted to use strong language. How could applying the principles of Ephesians 4:29 and 5:4 have changed the outcome of that situation? DO THIS: Adjust those unedifying words. PRAY THIS: Lord, help me to guard my tongue and use my words to build up others, reflecting Your love and grace in all my communication. May the words of my mouth and the meditations of my heart be pleasing to You, my Rock and my Redeemer. Amen. PLAY THIS: I Speak Jesus.

Has your reputation ever been under attack? Today, our call-out goes to Jody Jones from Newcomerstown, OH. Thanks for your support, Jody! Today, our text is Galatians 5:11. But if I, brothers, still preach circumcision, why am I still being persecuted? In that case the offense of the cross has been removed. — Galatians 5:11 What is apparent in this statement is that someone claimed Paul was a proponent of circumcision. We know Paul isn't, and Paul knows he isn't. Yet, someone misappropriated a small reference from him and then borrowed his credibility to manipulate others. Eventually, this happens to everyone. Someone with some influence uses it to intentionally or unintentionally spread disinformation about us. It's a troubling experience, especially if you care about your image and reputation. But Paul's concern is not his own reputation. His concern is Jesus's reputation and representing the Gospel truth. Therefore, Paul is determined to defend it. He confronts the false teachers and defends the Gospel because God's grace is at stake. The salvation of the people he knows and loves hangs in the balance, so the veracity of his defense is for them and not for himself. So the next time people spread disinformation about you, seek the truth over seeking vindication. Instead of engaging in pointless battles to defend yourself, your image, and your reputation, stay focused on sharing God's grace and defending the message of truth with others because God's truth is the only thing worth defending. #DefendTheFaith #GraceOverGossip #TruthPrevails #FaithfulWitness #IntegrityMatters ASK THIS: How can you discern between defending your reputation and defending the Gospel when faced with accusations or misinformation? In what ways can you prioritize sharing God's grace and truth over seeking personal vindication when confronted with false allegations or rumors? DO THIS: Defend the Gospel truth, not yourself. PRAY THIS: Lord, grant me the strength to uphold your truth with integrity, even in the face of false accusations. Help me to prioritize your Gospel above my own reputation, seeking your grace and wisdom in every circumstance. Amen. PLAY THIS: My Defender.

Are there people peddling bad theology in your church? Today, we'd like to express our heartfelt gratitude to Michael Forte from Astoria, OR. Michael, your support through purchasing materials from our website is invaluable to us. We honestly couldn't do this without you! Let's dive into our scripture for today, a thought-provoking verse from Galatians 5:10. I have confidence in the Lord that you will take no other view, and the one who is troubling you will bear the penalty, whoever he is. — Galatians 5:10 One Bad Apple Continuing with yesterday's lesson, Paul points out that the bacteria of legalism stems from one bad person. He assumes that this guy, whoever he is, is the peddler of all the bad theology that has infiltrated the churches in the area. If you are a new believer, you need to know that sometimes people peddle bad theology. Some people and pastors peddle bad doctrine that is harmful to the Gospel. Usually, it stems from one charismatic person peddling a charismatic idea and spreading it to numerous churches. In my lifetime, I have seen this spread, just like it did here, through the churches in Galatia. So, how do we respond to bad theology? Here's a clear, three-step process: Three Good Responses First and foremost, you need to know that not all theology is good theology. Bad theology exists, and it's harmful. As we discussed yesterday, it's like a bacteria that will infect and alter the composition of the truth. Second, make sure you are listening and learning from people who teach from the Bible. The people and pastors that you listen to need to be people who open the Bible. They should be people who read the Bible, reference it, and live according to it. They will have a rich understanding of biblical truth and teachings because they don't skip over texts and subject their life to the text. In the case of the Galatians, Paul was that man. Paul's intention with this letter was to guide them back to the purity of the Gospel. Fortunately for the churches there, he had enough sense to engage with the issue and point people back to the Bible and the pure Gospel. In the same way, we need to listen to proven teachers like Paul, not simply the ones with the latest and greatest charisma. So, seek out great biblical teachers. Lastly, the most effective way to detect bad theology is to raise obvious questions when something seems off and wait until you get a logical, biblical answer. When I hear something from a teacher that raises a red flag, questions usually start firing off in my mind, like: What was that again? How does that work? You want me to do what? For example, suppose you are listening to a teacher who declares that all the men ready to go to the next step in their faith need to line up at the altar for a circumcision ceremony, and Pastor Richard is going to lend a hand. In that case, some questions should be firing off in your mind. Questions like: Pastor Richard is going to do what? Even this suggestion might seem absurd to you, but that's precisely what happened in Galatia, and men were lining up to do it. They lined up to do it because false teachers had manipulated the Old Testament Law to prove a point that wasn't valid, and it appears people lined up without questioning it. Their explanations failed to account for the fact that everything in the Old Testament Law pointed to one man, one birth, one death, and one resurrection accomplished in Jesus—not by the rite of circumcision. Therefore, if you detect bad theology and it doesn't prove itself in Jesus' accomplished work on the Cross, then it's time to ask Pastor Richard that question that is stirring in your mind before you unbuckle your pants. #GuardAgainstFalseDoctrine #BewareThePeddlers #PureGospelTruth #SpottingRedFlags #DefendTheFaith ASK THIS: How can you actively discern between sound biblical teaching and potentially harmful theology in your own church community? Reflecting on your own spiritual journey, what steps can you take to ensure that you are rooted in the truth of the Gospel and not swayed by charismatic but erroneous teachings? DO THIS: Ask questions when you encounter questionable doctrine. PRAY THIS: Father, grant me wisdom to discern between truth and falsehood, and the courage to stand firm in the purity of your Gospel amidst the noise of deceptive teachings. Guide me to seek out and learn from faithful teachers who faithfully proclaim your Word, so that I may grow deeper in my understanding and application of your truth. Amen. PLAY THIS: Yet Not I But Through Christ In Me.

Are you adding bacteria to the Gospel? Today, we want to extend a special thank you to Chuck Peter from Roseville, MN. Your support of our ministry is invaluable, and we truly appreciate it. We couldn't do this without you! A little leaven leavens the whole lump. — Galatians 5:9 How Leaven Works Here is your science lesson for the day. Leavening causes dough to rise by introducing microorganisms into it. Yeast is the most common form of bacteria. When this is added to a dough, it begins to feed on the sugars. As the yeast feeds on them, it produces carbon dioxide gas. The carbon dioxide gas forms bubbles within the dough, causing it to expand and rise. One of the byproducts of this reaction is alcohol fermentation, which gives bread its taste. How Legalism Works Paul is making a parallel. Like leaven in a dough, legalism works the same way. Legalism is like bacteria. It is a small additive that spreads fast from one believer to the next. Therefore, a tiny thought of legalism inserted into the Gospel story affects the whole story. We may think that adding this in is good, but it's not. It changes the composition of the story, thus changing the whole story. Don't Improve The Gospel With Bacteria Here's the point. You don't need to improve God's story. It belongs to him. He is the one who told it. Tell it like it is, and stop adding bacteria to it. When you add anything to it, you puff yourself up and distract others from the one who saves. Besides, you can't save anyone anyway. Only Jesus saves, so let's point them all to him. #GospelIntegrity #LegalismWarning #PureGospel #SpiritualContamination #JesusSaves ASK THIS: How can we actively guard against adding our own "leaven" of legalism or personal agendas to the Gospel message in our conversations and teachings? How can we ensure that our presentation of the Gospel remains faithful and true to its original message without being diluted or contaminated by human ideas or traditions? DO THIS: Don't contaminate the gospel with your bacteria. PRAY THIS: Lord, help me to recognize and resist the temptation to add anything to your perfect Gospel, knowing that your message stands alone in its power to save. Keep my heart focused on pointing others to you, the only true Savior. Amen. PLAY THIS: The Gospel.

Are you ready to run a long spiritual marathon? Today, we extend a warm welcome to Patrick Hurley from Liberty Hill, TX, who has recently joined our community by signing up for Video Access on our website. Patrick, we're thrilled to have you on board! You were running well. Who hindered you from obeying the truth? This persuasion is not from him who calls you. — Galatians 5:7-8 A few times in Paul's letters, he uses a running metaphor to describe the spiritual race. This is one of those instances. So, let's lace up our spiritual running shoes and explore three key parallels Paul makes here. There is a Form for the Run Form is crucial when running in any race. Just as a marathon runner needs to maintain proper form to endure the demanding miles ahead, we, too, must cultivate a form that will sustain us. There will be seasons when our spiritual form feels effortless, and we must commit this form to memory. Because there will be more challenging stretches of the race, we will get sloppy, and then we will need to return to the memory and habits of that form. There are Obstacles on the Run No marathon is without obstacles. Runners encounter hills to climb, rugged terrain, and unexpected hurdles. In the same way, our spiritual journey is thick with obstacles that threaten our progress. Whether it's temptation, doubt, or the pressures of the world, there will be moments when we stumble and lose our stride. Yet, as Paul reminds us, these obstacles are not insurmountable, and we can quickly get back to form. There are Voices as We Run As we race towards the finish line, we are bombarded with voices vying for our attention. Just as an athlete hears the cheers and heckles of the crowd, we, too, encounter voices along our spiritual journey. There are two persuasive voices: the voice that is from God and the voice that is not. Both are persuading you at the same time. One is giving you good advice, and one is giving you bad advice. One is from the Holy Spirit and speaks truth, offering wisdom, guidance, and encouragement that leads you back to the proper form. Conversely, the enemy seeks to deceive and derail us with lies and distractions that lead to bad form. As you reflect on the text today, here's the call to action: check your form, watch the obstacles, listen to the Spirit's voice, and fix your eyes on the prize. Let us charge ahead with unwavering resolve, ready to run the long race of faith with our eyes fixed on the ultimate prize—eternity with Jesus Christ. #SpiritualMarathon #RunTheRace #FaithEndurance #KeepTheFaith #EternalPrize ASK THIS: How can you actively cultivate and maintain your spiritual form to endure the challenges of the long spiritual marathon? Reflecting on your recent spiritual journey, what obstacles have you encountered, and how have you overcome them to stay on course in your race of faith? DO THIS: Run and keep your form. PRAY THIS: Father, guide me as I lace up my spiritual shoes and embark on this marathon of faith. Grant me strength to overcome obstacles, discern your voice, and run with endurance towards the eternal prize awaiting me. Amen. PLAY THIS: Run To The Father.

Does your spiritual life, as of late, feel like it is in an endless free fall? Today's callout goes to Rolf Jostad from Birchwood, WI, who recently signed up for Video Access on our website. For through the Spirit, by faith, we ourselves eagerly wait for the hope of righteousness. For in Christ Jesus neither circumcision nor uncircumcision counts for anything, but only faith working through love. — Galatians 5:5-6 The Free Fall of Faith Our spiritual journeys can sometimes feel like free falls. This is how faith works. But faith is not like free-falling out of a plane without a working parachute attached to our back or jumping off a cliff without a bungee cord securely attached to our ankles. The spiritual journey comes with an assurance attached—the Holy Spirit. The Free Fall Instinct Yet here is the problem with the free fall of faith. When we take a leap of faith for the first time, we may not completely trust the security of the Holy Spirit. If we don't, we will instinctively reach for something. This something, whatever it is, is usually something tangible. It is something we have reached for in the past. We reach for it to create a sense of security in the fall. But all this does is tangle our parachute, propelling us faster toward the ground; thus, we end up rejecting our security and salvation through the Holy Spirit. In the free fall of faith, we need to do what Paul recommends in the text. We need to stop reaching for other things. Rites and rituals are not the right things to reach for in a fall of faith. The right thing to reach for is our security in the Holy Spirit. We must trust that the Holy Spirit is going to catch us. That the Spirit cares about us. That he is interceding for us. He will ensure the parachute will deploy at precisely the right time because he loves us. And this is what Paul means by, "faith working through love." #FaithJourney #HolySpiritGuidance #TrustInGod #SpiritualFreeFall #EmbraceTheUnknown ASK THIS: Reflecting on your own spiritual journey, what tangible "securities" have you instinctively reached for during challenging times? How can you shift your reliance towards trusting in the Holy Spirit's guidance instead? In what areas of your life do you struggle the most to let go of control and trust in God's timing and provision? How can you actively cultivate a deeper sense of faith and surrender in those areas? DO THIS: Trust in the love of the Holy Spirit. PRAY THIS: Father, help me release my grip on earthly assurances and trust wholeheartedly in Your guiding Spirit, knowing that Your love will catch me in every free fall of faith. May my journey be a testament to Your faithfulness and grace. Amen. PLAY THIS: Give Me Faith.

Are you convincing yourself to do the wrong thing? Today's callout goes to Takoda Ruble from Pace, FL, who recently signed up for Video Access on our website. You are severed from Christ, you who would be justified by the law; you have fallen away from grace. — Galatians 5:4 Your Mind Is Powerful Our minds are powerful tools. They perpetually and privately persuade us. In fact, today, the salesperson living in your mind has already convinced you to say and do things you probably should not do. If people heard even half the thoughts you have in your mind, they would think you are crazy—and maybe a little abusive, insecure, or maybe demented. But here's the deal: Our minds are always stirring. They process information so quickly that sometimes we grab onto thoughts and ideas that are dead wrong. Then, we privately persuade ourselves these thoughts and ideas are true. Without anyone knowing it and with great speed, our minds have convinced us of things that are untrue about ourselves and about God. Our Thoughts Don't Justify As Paul says, this is exactly how we fall away from grace: We justify thoughts that do not justify. This is exactly why you and I need to read and ruminate on Scripture daily. Scripture renews and resets our minds because they need to be renewed moment by moment. Scripture tells the salesmen in our heads to "Shut up" and "Stop selling me that." Besides, in the end, your self-justifying thoughts don't justify anything. The only one who justifies is God alone. #MindOverMatter #GraceOverJustification #RenewingTheMind #SilencingTheSalesman #GodsTruth ASK THIS: How can you identify and challenge the self-justifying thoughts that lead you away from grace? What practical steps can you take to renew your mind daily with the truth of Scripture and resist the persuasive narratives of self-justification? DO THIS: Stop listening to the voices in your head and listen to God through Scripture. PRAY THIS: Lord, help me recognize the deceptive thoughts that lead me away from Your grace, and grant me the strength to silence them with the truth of Your Word. Renew my mind daily, guiding me to align my thoughts with Your will and resist the temptation of self-justification. Amen. PLAY THIS: Purify My Heart (Refiner's Fire).

Look: I, Paul, say to you that if you accept circumcision, Christ will be of no advantage to you. I testify again to every man who accepts circumcision that he is obligated to keep the whole law. — Galatians 5:2-3 CALL OUT: Today's callout goes to Keron Taylor from Sterling, VA, who recently signed up for video access on our website. Are you feeling the pressure in our culture to conform to practices when they contradict the Gospel of Grace? We have discovered through Galatians that circumcision was the big issue in these churches. Jewish teachers were putting pressure on non-Jewish new male converts to fit in with the new Christian culture by being circumcised. In the following ten verses, Paul will be very direct about addressing this matter among men. What I find interesting about this issue is that new converts, and even some well-known believers, are falling for it. They are succumbing to the pressure to conform because they are convinced there is no harm, and it might enhance their relationship with God. This is evidence that the peer pressure we faced as young teens will manifest into adulthood. Peer pressure never goes away. You don't outgrow it. You are going to experience it everywhere, including in the church. Sometimes, this peer pressure can be good, helping us avoid sinful actions. On the other hand, sometimes it can be bad, leading us toward feelings, beliefs, and actions that are abominable in our relationship with God. The latter is Paul's concern here. We often succumb to social pressure because we give too much credence to the people who expose certain ideas. For example, let's consider some of the comments made by Whoopi Goldberg just a few days ago on The View. She used one of the Ten Commandments to justify abortion. Obviously, you and I believe her statement is blasphemous. But don't forget some people give Goldberg and the things she says a lot of credence, so much so they will follow her right off the cliff in blasphemy. And that is Paul's concern here. That new converts are going to follow false teachers right off the cliff into blasphemy. But did you know there is a way to test when a false teaching or false teacher is pressuring us? The test is quite simple. Paul presents it in our text, in verse three. It's this: Play the principle out practically. Here is what Paul says: I testify again to every man who accepts circumcision that he is obligated to keep the whole law. All you need to do is play the concept out. If it plays out and doesn't align with the intended outcomes of the Gospel, then it's not the Gospel. And if it isn't the Gospel, then don't listen to it, don't be pressured to do it, and definitely don't share it with others. #FreedomInChrist #RejectingConformity #GospelOverCulture #DiscerningTruth #StandingFirm ASK THIS: How can we discern between beneficial peer pressure that aligns with the Gospel and harmful pressure that leads us away from Christ? Reflecting on your own experiences, what are some practical steps you can take to guard yourself against conforming to cultural practices that contradict the principles of grace found in the Gospel? DO THIS: Test the pressure by playing it out. PRAY THIS: Lord, help me to stand firm in the truth of your Gospel, resisting the pressures of this world that lead me astray. Grant me discernment to recognize and reject falsehoods, and empower me to live boldly according to your Word. Amen. PLAY THIS: Pressure.

For freedom Christ has set us free; stand firm therefore, and do not submit again to a yoke of slavery. — Galatians 5:1 CALL OUT: Today's callout goes to Jay Riggleman from Williamson, NY, and his group, which is using our study 7 Challenges Men Encounter on RightNow Media. Thank you so much. Do you see what Paul is doing here? Paul is persuading the Galatians that it's time to resist. This text is both a charge and a command. Paul wants believers to anchor themselves in a truth that can only be realized if they refuse to return. They must resist. If they don't, they will be drawn in and dragged down, yoked like slaves to their former ways. What an image! You see, the war a believer fights is fought in our hearts and minds for the soul. Each day, believers go to war empowered with the Holy Spirit—the very power of our risen Savior. As we go to war, we must remember we are not fighting for freedom. Freedom has been won by Jesus. We are also not fighting against people. We are fighting against the temptation within us to submit to any of our former ways. Our former ways are so devious and insidious that the temptation to return is strong. But we must resist. If we don't, it's like walking up to the yoke and willingly putting our neck back in it. That would be preposterous! Today resist. Resist the old temptations. Resist the old thoughts. Resist the old language. Resist the return. Plant your feet and spiritual identity firm in the freedom already won for you. That is good news! #FreedomInChrist #StandFirm #ResistTemptation #AnchoredInTruth #VictoryInJesus ASK THIS: How can you actively resist the temptation to return to your former ways and instead embrace the freedom that Christ has won for you? What practical steps can you take today to anchor yourself firmly in the truth of Christ and avoid being yoked again to the slavery of sin? DO THIS: Resist all your old yokes. PRAY THIS: Father, grant me the strength to resist the allure of past temptations and to stand firm in the freedom that Christ has secured for me. Help me to anchor myself in Your truth and walk boldly in the victory You have provided. Amen. PLAY THIS: Who You Say I Am.

But what does the Scripture say? "Cast out the slave woman and her son, for the son of the slave woman shall not inherit with the son of the free woman." So, brothers, we are not children of the slave but of the free woman. — Galatians 4:30-31 CALL OUT: Today's call-out goes to Jay Turner from Seabrook, SC, and his group, who is using our study Attributes for Men on RightNow Media. Thank you so much. Are you hearing voices that are competing with the truth? Paul's words in this text pierce through the legalistic voices we all hear. He urged us to cast off the shackles of slavery that entangle our souls. Just as Sarah demanded the expulsion of Hagar and Ishmael, so too are we called to purge our lives of legalism and legalistic voices that come from anywhere or anyone who would speak anything but the truth. As you travel your spiritual journey, you will encounter people and voices that seek to ensnare you. Certain Jewish teachers in Galatia did. They sought to impose circumcision and obedience to the law as requirements for salvation, which was a denial of the sufficiency of Christ's sacrifice on the Cross. Some believers silently accepted this, assuming it was the truth. But Paul's voice rose louder. He spoke back to these people and their voices, proclaiming that legalism has no place in the life of a believer. Today, instead of passively accepting everything you hear, it may be time to test these people and their voices. When they do not align with Scriptural truth, speak back to them. Preach the truth to them and know that sometimes just saying it is enough to reject the voices and people who entangle us all. God, give the believer listening today the strength to reject and speak back to any untruth that is stirring in their mind or resting on their soul. Liberate them from legalism. In Jesus's name, amen. #FreedomInChrist #RejectLegalism #VoiceOfTruth #CastOutShackles #EmbraceGospelFreedom ASK THIS: How can you discern between voices that align with Scriptural truth and those that promote legalism or falsehood? In what areas of your life do you feel the pull of legalistic pressures or voices? How can you actively cast out these influences and embrace the freedom found in Christ? DO THIS: Speak back to the voice of untruth. PRAY THIS: Lord, grant me discernment to recognize and reject the voices of legalism that seek to entangle my soul. Empower me to boldly embrace the freedom found in Your truth. Help me to speak out against falsehood and stand firm in the liberty secured for me by Christ's sacrifice on the cross. Amen. PLAY THIS: Truth I'm Standing On.

For it is written, "Rejoice, O barren one who does not bear; break forth and cry aloud, you who are not in labor! For the children of the desolate one will be more than those of the one who has a husband." Now you, brothers, like Isaac, are children of promise. But just as at that time he who was born according to the flesh persecuted him who was born according to the Spirit, so also it is now. — Galatians 4:27-29 CALL OUT: Our call-out today goes to Thomas Hine and his men's group that has been using our book 30 Men Who Lived With Conviction. Thank you so much. This text can be confusing because it combines several different genres and literary devices. Paul uses a historical account with an allegorical interpretation, followed by a prophetic text (Isaiah 51:1), in a letter to the Galatians. This makes it very hard to interpret this text with precision because it is hard to understand Paul's intent. The simplest interpretation is: Rejoice! You are people of the promise. The life you enjoy is a miracle. Cast out all other means and methods, but faith alone. Thus, we witness a profound reversal—believers move from barrenness to fruitfulness, from despair to joy, from desolation to blessing—which is only accomplished by Divine intervention. This text reminded me today that we need to regularly celebrate God's work in our lives. It's appropriate to sing praises to his name and thank him for his faithfulness. We are all prone to move too quickly past moments of great spiritual joy—the salvation of a friend, the birth of a child, the answer to a prayer, or a physical, emotional, or spiritual healing. We move too quickly past these divine events to get on with the next thing. But when we take the time to celebrate, it communicates to God that we know what he did, and it sears this emotional event to our soul, which benefits us down the road. Sometimes, it becomes the emotional, mental, and spiritual anchor that reminds us of God's faithfulness when we need him the most. So the next time God does something for you, to you, or with you, take the time to rejoice like a child of the promise. #RejoiceInGodsPromises, #DivineIntervention, #CelebrateGodsWork, #Faithfulness, #ChildOfThePromise ASK THIS: How can we actively cultivate a mindset of celebration and gratitude for God's work in our lives, even in the midst of challenges? In what ways can we ensure that we don't overlook or rush past moments of spiritual joy, but instead anchor them in our hearts and minds for future encouragement and faith? DO THIS: Rejoice in your relationship and celebrate God. PRAY THIS: Father, thank You for Your unfailing faithfulness and the miraculous work You do in my life. Help me to rejoice continually in Your promises and to anchor every moment of spiritual joy in my heart, trusting in Your enduring love and provision. Amen. PLAY THIS: Celebrate.

GET THE BOOK: Daniel: A Strong Man Is Faithful here https://amzn.to/3ToZqOk Do you testify to others about your fiery trial of faith? Then King Nebuchadnezzar was astonished and rose up in haste. He declared to his counselors, "Did we not cast three men bound into the fire?" They answered and said to the king, "True, O king." He answered and said, "But I see four men unbound, walking in the midst of the fire, and they are not hurt; and the appearance of the fourth is like a son of the gods." Then Nebuchadnezzar came near to the door of the burning fiery furnace; he declared, "Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, servants of the Most High God, come out, and come here!" Then Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego came out from the fire. And the satraps, the prefects, the governors, and the king's counselors gathered together and saw that the fire had not had any power over the bodies of those men. The hair of their heads was not singed, their cloaks were not harmed, and no smell of fire had come upon them. Nebuchadnezzar answered and said, "Blessed be the God of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, who has sent his angel and delivered his servants, who trusted in him, and set aside the king's command, and yielded up their bodies rather than serve and worship any god except their own God. Therefore I make a decree: Any people, nation, or language that speaks anything against the God of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego shall be torn limb from limb, and their houses laid in ruins, for there is no other god who is able to rescue in this way." Then the king promoted Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego in the province of Babylon. — Daniel 3:24-30 We live in times ruled by the spirit of Babylon. Satan roams the earth, and men like Nebuchadnezzar still exist. They will till the end of this time. This means we're going to have trouble in this life. We might even have long seasons of fiery trials. We will experience trials on a macro-level in the world, in our countries, with governments, politicians, and leaders. We'll also experience trials on a micro-level in our marriage, family, workplaces, and personal lives. Somedays, the furnace of these trials is going to rage on both levels. Occasionally, the heat is going to get turned way up. But know this — a man of faith always has God standing by their side. God will stand by you through the fire, even when a vengeful spirit walks you to the edge of the furnace and pushes you in. God will not let you be burned. Not a hair on your body. Not a singe of your skin. Not even a smell of flame. But you'll have to have faith that the Spirit of God is greater than the spirit of this world. In fact, I bet you have a story like this—a tale of a test where God intervened for you. This story is a testimony of God's greatness and faithfulness through you. It's worth recalling and retelling because it tells the tale of a faithful God who is ready to save. So do that today. Testify about God by telling the tale of your trial and his salvation. Give some hope to others who are walking through the same test or trial that you did. Because the story of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego is not the only great story of God's salvation. It's one of many God has done through men just like you. God, use our stories to testify about the great works you do. As we share them, may they testify to your faithfulness and greatness and help others know there is hope in their tests and trials. May our stories of you be salvation to others. In Jesus's name, amen. If you liked this devotional series, check out the 30-day Devotional Book that partners with this study—Daniel: A Strong Man Is Faithful, which you can find on Amazon at the link below. https://amzn.to/3ToZqOk

Now this may be interpreted allegorically: these women are two covenants. One is from Mount Sinai, bearing children for slavery; she is Hagar. Now Hagar is Mount Sinai in Arabia; she corresponds to the present Jerusalem, for she is in slavery with her children. But the Jerusalem above is free, and she is our mother. — Galatians 4:24-26 CALL OUT: Our call-out goes to Kenneth Webber from Irmo, SC. Thank you so much for your support, brother. You are in our prayers today! In this allegory, Paul contrasts two mothers: Hagar, a slave, and Sarah, a free woman. Through their respective sons, we witness the birth of two distinct covenants. Hagar symbolizes covenant slavery through Ismael, representing the former religious system. Sarah embodies the covenant of freedom, corresponding to the present family of faith born from above. Essentially, one is the mother of bondage, the other the mother of freedom. Paul's contrast is not just a literary device but a tool he is using to explain the freedom we have in faith. Using this allegory, Paul proclaims a truth that would be offensive to a devout Jew. He is saying that Jerusalem, the Temple, and all its priests and practices are a sign of religious bondage. The time of adherence to these legal regulations is done. Circumcision, festivals, and former religious systems and practices hold no meaning anymore. In fact, those who still do them are like Ishmael, sons of a slave woman birthed into slavery. However, Paul's illustration can easily be understood as outdated and irrelevant to us today. But it's not, and here's why. Anytime we embrace even a subtle belief that our good works will earn us status, standing, or salvation with God, we link ourselves to the lineage of Hagar and slavery. And it's easy to be conned into doing this. We might think, "If I just prayed more, read my Bible more, and attended church more, then maybe God will reward me and be pleased with me." Now, there is nothing wrong with these activities—we should do each of them—but believing that doing them will save you is an enslaving lie. It has led many believers right back into the arms of Hagar, the mother of bondage. These works-based religious beliefs result in a mentality of trying to earn God's favor through our efforts. Think about it. When we believe that our performance dictates our standing with God, we're essentially saying that Jesus's sacrifice on the Cross wasn't enough. We're saying that we need to add our good deeds to the equation to experience salvation. But that's not the message of the Gospel. Paul has been telling us throughout Galatians that we are saved by grace through faith, not by our works. It's not about what we do; it's about what Jesus has already done for us. He paid the price for our sins on the Cross, once and for all. When we put our trust in him, we are set free from the bondage of trying to earn our salvation, and we do good deeds as a result. So, while this allegory might feel outdated and antiquated, it's not. Don't fall into the trap of works-based systems of belief. Remember that you are a descendant of the free woman born into freedom by the Son who came from her seed—Jesus Christ. Embrace the truth that you have been saved by grace, not by your own efforts. And let's live our lives in response to grace and freedom. #FreedomInFaith #GraceOverWorks #AllegoricalWisdom #GalatiansInsights #LiberatedByGrace ASK THIS: Reflecting on your beliefs and practices, do you find yourself leaning more towards a works-based mentality or embracing God's grace? How can you shift your focus to relying on His grace rather than your own efforts? In what ways can you practically live out the truth of being saved by grace through faith in your daily life? How can you share this message of freedom with others who may be trapped in a works-based mindset? DO THIS: Rid yourself of works-based religious lies. PRAY THIS: Father, help me fully grasp the depth of Your grace and live in the freedom You have provided through Christ. Guide me to share this liberating truth with others so that they, too, may experience the joy of salvation by faith alone. Amen. PLAY THIS: Freedom.

For it is written that Abraham had two sons, one by a slave woman and one by a free woman. But the son of the slave was born according to the flesh, while the son of the free woman was born through promise. — Galatians 4:22-23 CALL OUT: Our call-out goes to Richard Diguer from Ingleside, Canada. Thank you so much for your support, brother. You are in our prayers today! In this section, Paul will reference a story of immense significance for every Jew. It's not just any story but the narrative of a promise to Abraham that illuminates the very origins of faith in God. But you'll notice that Paul has been pointing back a lot. This is intentional. He is trying to show Gentile and Jewish believers that the basis of faith in God was established long before the law ever existed. Its origins began with a promise God made to Abraham. God promised to provide a son through his line of Abraham, establishing him as the father of many nations. Yet there was a problem. Abraham and Sarah were old, and Sarah was unable to have children. In disbelief, Sarah encouraged Abraham to take matters into his own hands. She persuaded him to sleep with his slave woman Hagar, and she quickly bore them a child — Ishmael. But soon after, Sarah became pregnant and bore them a legitimate son — Isaac. Despite the improbability of their age, God made good on his promise to give them a child. But he was only the first son in a long lineage that led to God's provision of the Messianic son — Jesus. By faith, Abraham believed, and even though he did not see the Savior, he knew God would provide a Savior. Therefore, Abraham put his faith in God, which was counted as righteousness. This is what Paul establishes yet again. Before any provision or works of the law, faith saved the patriarch of the faith in the same way all men are saved. By faith alone in Jesus Christ, who saved the world from sin. Paul keeps doing the same thing repeatedly, pounding home the same point from every possible angle. But some people need the truth presented this way. They need to see it from every possible angle. You know what that means. You can't give up on the people you love. If they have a corrupt understanding of the faith, find another angle and try another approach. Present the case until it makes sense. It was my grandfather who eventually convinced me. One day, we were taking a ride in his old 1958 Chevy Apache truck, and as we pulled over to stop, he paused and turned to me and said: "I know your mother and father say God is not real because Christians are hypocrites, and the church is full of broken people. And I want you to know they are right. Christians are hypocrites, and the church is full of broken people. In fact, I am a hypocrite and a broken person. But I don't put my faith in a hypocrite or in broken people. I put my faith in a man, his name was Jesus. He was not a hypocrite, and his life was broken for me and for you." That conversation turned my world upside down. It helped me see the one thing I was unable to see: Faith in a person, Jesus, is what saves, nothing else. And because my grandfather did not give up on me, I became a man of faith. So don't quit on the people you love. Keep telling them the story. Find another angle. Present the Gospel yet again. And remember, God never quit on us. #FaithVsFlesh #PromiseKeeper #LegacyofFaith #GospelPerspective #NeverGiveUp ASK THIS: How does the story of Abraham, Sarah, and their sons Ishmael and Isaac challenge your understanding of faith and obedience to God's promises in your own life? Reflect on a time when you faced a situation where you were tempted to take matters into your own hands instead of trusting in God's promises. How can you apply the lesson from Abraham's story to approach similar situations with faith and patience in the future? DO THIS: Don't quit on people you love. God didn't PRAY THIS: Father, help me to trust in Your promises and have faith in Your perfect timing, even when circumstances seem impossible. Guide me to persistently share Your Gospel with love, never giving up on those I care about. PLAY THIS: Don't Quit.

Tell me, you who desire to be under the law, do you not listen to the law? — Galatians 4:21 CALL OUT: Our newest men's ministry book, Sculpting Men, is now available in paper. Pick this up now if you are leading men. It contains over 50+ articles on the Foundations for Men's Ministry, Mentoring Men, & Practical Steps to Get Started. Why The Law? Laws are crucial. They safeguard and guide individuals and communities. Without laws, chaos would reign, and conflicts would escalate. They provide a necessary structure for life. However, laws can also be misused to enforce conformity, leading to excessive regulation and the stifling of freedoms. The challenge of governance lies in finding the right balance between too few and too many laws. At some point, it is tempting for those who govern to become intoxicated with power by legislation. When they don't get the behaviors they want, they legislate behavior, which is precisely what happened in Scotland overnight. Formerly a country known for its savage and merciless defense against harsh conditions and hostile enemies now has made hate speech a criminal offense that could land someone in prison for up to seven years. Leveraging The Law This was the situation in Galatia. New converts were being persuaded by Jewish Christians that their faith in Jesus was insufficient. They were told they needed to follow additional rites and rituals from the Mosaic Law to be in good standing with God. This was a legal overstep, a power move by religious leaders. You see, laws are good guides until they encounter two critical challenges: they are ignored by adherents or leveraged by authorities. The ultimate reason for the religious law was to point out the sinful nature of our selfish desires. The law, given by God, was supposed to stir us to examine our motivations and actions. It should redirect us toward good and godly guidance from God's Word and be led by the Spirit. Believers who do this have no need for the law. This is not an endorsement of lawlessness but the joy of freedom. Freedom in faith to be led by the power of God's Spirit. Those who the Spirit leads do not need the law because their sin was justified not by the law but by faith. In addition, they are indwelled by a daily guide—the Holy Spirit. This is the joy of being a believer. We are not regulated by the former law and oppressed by it. Instead, we live under the law of grace, as evidenced by how we are sealed and led by the Holy Spirit. Live Free From The Law Given this, how is the Spirit directing your steps today? Are you aware of his presence? Are you listening to him? Are you letting him have total control of your motivations and desires? Here's my prayer for you today as you reflect on these questions: Spirit of the Living God, direct my steps today. Convict me of any selfishness and sin. Direct me to your holiness. Make your desires my desires. Amen. #LawAndGrace #FreedomInFaith #SpiritLedLife #GalatiansInsights #GraceOverLegalism ASK THIS: How does your understanding of the law impact your daily decisions and interactions with others? In what ways can you actively seek to live in the freedom and grace offered through Jesus Christ rather than being bound by legalistic tendencies or expectations? DO THIS: Invite the Spirit to lead you to freedom. PRAY THIS: Spirit of the Living God, direct my steps today. Convict me of any selfishness and sin. Direct me to your holiness. Make your desires my desires. Amen. PLAY THIS: Spirit of the Living God.

My little children, for whom I am again in the anguish of childbirth until Christ is formed in you! I wish I could be present with you now and change my tone, for I am perplexed about you. — Galatians 4:19-20 CALL OUT: Our newest men's ministry book, Sculpting Men, is now available in paper. Pick this up now if you are leading men. It contains over 50+ articles on the Foundations for Men's Ministry, Mentoring Men, & Practical Steps to Get Started. The Invested Parent With these words, we encounter raw emotion. Paul perceives himself as a parent to the Galatians. He has parent-like aspirations for their spiritual growth and maturity. He likens this desire for them to the pains of birth, which speaks volumes about the labor and struggle involved in nurturing spiritual growth. This communicates something vital about discipleship and mentorship. It's not a passive endeavor. It requires a deep personal investment that is sometimes agonizing. For some of you who have been too disengaged in discipling those around you, this is a poignant reminder of the gravity of your role. Discipleship is more than imparting knowledge. It's about walking alongside others, sharing in their joys and sorrows, and helping them grow in intimacy with Christ. It's about investing time, energy, and passion into the lives of those we love. It involves both affirmation and admonition, speaking truth in love even when it's uncomfortable or confrontational. It requires discernment and sensitivity to a disciple's needs, knowing when to encourage, when to challenge, and when to comfort. Responsible To Not For But, like Paul, there will come a moment when the process pushes you over the edge. You will eventually scratch your head and contemplate questions like: "Have I wasted my time?" "Am I that bad of a teacher?" "Are they that stupid?" You will have these thoughts and questions. But right at this moment, you need to remember a simple principle: "You are responsible to them, but you are not responsible for them." All you can do is invest as much as possible, show them the truth, and let them decide for themselves. These are the pangs of spiritual birth that often our "children" do not know. #SpiritualParenting #DiscipleshipJourney #MentoringMen #AgonizingLove #InvestingInOthers ASK THIS: How can you deepen your commitment to nurturing spiritual growth in others, embracing the joys and pains of discipleship? Reflect on a time when you felt the tension between responsibility for others' spiritual growth and the realization that, ultimately, their choices are their own. How did you navigate this tension, and what did you learn from the experience? DO THIS: Disciple and invest. PRAY THIS: Lord, grant me the strength and perseverance to invest deeply in the spiritual growth of others, even when it involves agonizing labor and uncertainty. Help me to trust in Your timing and sovereignty as I walk alongside those You have entrusted to my care. Amen. PLAY THIS: Follow Me.

Have I then become your enemy by telling you the truth? They make much of you, but for no good purpose. They want to shut you out, that you may make much of them. It is always good to be made much of for a good purpose, and not only when I am present with you, — Galatians 4:16-18 CALL OUT: I want to give a shout-out to Alan Cox from Napa, CA. Thanks for supporting the ministry, brother! If you have a friend who is about to make a mistake, and you know a truth that could help them avoid it, do you typically intervene? Some will and some won't. It all depends on two factors: the depth of the relationship and how much damage it might do. If you have a deep relationship with them, you will probably intervene. If their decision could do a lot of damage, you will also be more inclined to intervene. Ultimately, the decision depends on how much you know and care about this person's future. Telling them the truth is hard when you know it might sting. It's uncomfortable and scary, but it's often the most caring thing to do. By telling the truth, you demonstrate how much you care about their future well-being, even if it means having a difficult conversation. In the end, the decision is theirs. They may heed your advice, or they may not. Some might take offense and perceive you as an enemy because you told them the truth. This is precisely what Paul is concerned about here. But this is where faith comes in. All you can do is speak up, share the truth in love, and let God own the outcome. If you do this, you have done your part. Then get out of the way of God and let God work, even if you feel like, for a season, the relationship is in disrepair. Remember, the truth always wins because God's good purposes always prevail. #TruthInLove #SpeakUpWithCourage #FaithfulFriendship #NavigatingRelationships #GodsGoodPurposes ASK THIS: Reflecting on your own experiences, can you recall a time when someone spoke a difficult truth to you out of love? How did you respond, and what did you learn from the experience? In your current relationships, is there someone you feel compelled to share the truth with, even though it might be uncomfortable? What steps can you take to approach this conversation with love and humility? DO THIS: Share the truth in love. PRAY THIS: Lord, grant me the courage and wisdom to speak the truth in love, even when it's difficult or uncomfortable. Help me trust in Your good purposes and surrender the outcome to Your hands, knowing that Your truth always prevails. Amen. PLAY THIS: The Truth.

You know it was because of a bodily ailment that I preached the gospel to you at first, and though my condition was a trial to you, you did not scorn or despise me, but received me as an angel of God, as Christ Jesus. What then has become of your blessedness? For I testify to you that, if possible, you would have gouged out your eyes and given them to me. Have I then become your enemy by telling you the truth? — Galatians 4:13-16 CALL OUT: I want to give a shout-out to Dan Clements from Lawrenceville, GA. He bought a few Galatian Scripture Journals the other day. Thank you for leading men. God's providence works in surprising ways. Sometimes, a weakness, sickness, pain, or problem gives way to an opportunity to present the Gospel. When it comes to our relationship with God, I think sometimes we get a little frustrated because we don't see what God is doing at the moment. We encounter times when it feels like our plan gets postponed by an inconvenience, illness, loss, or layoff. But the older I get, the more I realize these apparent problems are usually precursors to God's providence. God uses problems to display the power of his providence. In Scripture, God did this with believers and unbelievers alike: Consider how God used Job's loss or Nebuchadnezzar's insanity. Consider how God used Jonah's resistance or persuaded Pharaoh with the pressure of increasing plaques. Or, for the best example, consider Saul (a.k.a. Paul) and Ananias. God afflicted Saul with blindness, bringing two improbable men together—a hater of God and a humble believer in God—which led to an incredible advancement of the Gospel. To see this in your life, you'll have to focus less on the problem of your pain and more on God's providence in the pain. You must force yourself to see the issues from God's providential purpose. This is not pretending that there is not a problem. There could be a very real problem that needs to be addressed. All you are doing is keeping in mind that God has a more purposeful purpose for your problem than the pain that we may see. A purpose and a path that may produce greater results than you expect. So, if something is not going your way today, look at that situation again. Stop focusing on why it is not going your way, and force yourself to see it God's way. If you cannot see God's present plan, then stay in a place of present trust. Be patient and keep faith because suddenly, God will reveal it. Like God sent Ananias to pray for Saul, suddenly you will see God's plan, and the scales will fall from your eyes, revealing the power and advancement of the Gospel. #GodsProvidence, #DivinePurpose, #TrustInTrials, #FaithOverFear, #SeeingGodsPlan ASK THIS: How can you shift your perspective during times of adversity to focus more on God's providential purpose rather than solely on the pain or inconvenience you're experiencing? Reflecting on past experiences, can you identify a time when what initially seemed like a setback or problem turned out to be an opportunity for God to work in a surprising or unexpected way? How can you apply the lessons learned from that experience to your current challenges? DO THIS: See beyond your problem to His providence. PRAY THIS: Lord, help me to trust in Your providence, especially in times of adversity, knowing that You can turn my weaknesses and trials into opportunities for Your glory and the advancement of Your kingdom. Grant me the faith to see beyond my immediate circumstances and to embrace Your plan with patience and trust. Amen. PLAY THIS: There Will Be A Day.

Have I then become your enemy by telling you the truth? They make much of you, but for no good purpose. They want to shut you out, that you may make much of them. It is always good to be made much of for a good purpose, and not only when I am present with you, — Galatians 4:16-18 CALL OUT: I want to give a shout-out to Alan Cox from Napa, CA. Thanks for supporting the ministry, brother! If you have a friend who is about to make a mistake, and you know a truth that could help them avoid it, do you typically intervene? Some will and some won't. It all depends on two factors: the depth of the relationship and how much damage it might do. If you have a deep relationship with them, you will probably intervene. If their decision could do a lot of damage, you will also be more inclined to intervene. Ultimately, the decision depends on how much you know and care about this person's future. Telling them the truth is hard when you know it might sting. It's uncomfortable and scary, but it's often the most caring thing to do. By telling the truth, you demonstrate how much you care about their future well-being, even if it means having a difficult conversation. In the end, the decision is theirs. They may heed your advice, or they may not. Some might take offense and perceive you as an enemy because you told them the truth. This is precisely what Paul is concerned about here. But this is where faith comes in. All you can do is speak up, share the truth in love, and let God own the outcome. If you do this, you have done your part. Then get out of the way of God and let God work, even if you feel like, for a season, the relationship is in disrepair. Remember, the truth always wins because God's good purposes always prevail. #TruthInLove #SpeakUpWithCourage #FaithfulFriendship #NavigatingRelationships #GodsGoodPurposes ASK THIS: Reflecting on your own experiences, can you recall a time when someone spoke a difficult truth to you out of love? How did you respond, and what did you learn from the experience? In your current relationships, is there someone you feel compelled to share the truth with, even though it might be uncomfortable? What steps can you take to approach this conversation with love and humility? DO THIS: Share the truth in love. PRAY THIS: Lord, grant me the courage and wisdom to speak the truth in love, even when it's difficult or uncomfortable. Help me trust in Your good purposes and surrender the outcome to Your hands, knowing that Your truth always prevails. Amen. PLAY THIS: The Truth.

GET THE BOOK: Daniel: A Strong Man Is Faithful here https://amzn.to/3ToZqOk Do you sense the persecution is heating up? Then Nebuchadnezzar was filled with fury, and the expression of his face was changed against Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego. He ordered the furnace heated seven times more than it was usually heated. And he ordered some of the mighty men of his army to bind Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, and to cast them into the burning fiery furnace. Then these men were bound in their cloaks, their tunics, their hats, and their other garments, and they were thrown into the burning fiery furnace. Because the king's order was urgent and the furnace overheated, the flame of the fire killed those men who took up Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego. And these three men, Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, fell bound into the burning fiery furnace. — Daniel 3:19-23 I doubt that you and I will experience something like this during our lifetime. I could be wrong, but I think there's almost no chance. Yet, we'll all encounter immensely hot moments in our lives—moments when we feel powerless and overcome by someone who has the upper hand. This could happen on the job, at home, or in the courtroom. It might happen before a boss, a spouse, or a leader. But let's realize that most of the time, this happens when we've done something wrong. But that is not the situation here. This fiery test had nothing to do with sin. These men never sin against God. Instead, they stood up for God, which demanded taking a stand against a king who proclaimed to be a god. These men chose to do what was right and righteous and were suffering for it at the hands of a cruel, self-righteous, and angry man. Now that we might experience. At some point, every one of us suffers for doing what is right and righteous in this life. We will suffer the fury of our Nebuchadnezzar. At present, this could be happening to you. If so, you shouldn't back down, especially if you have done what is right and have been righteous. Instead, this moment could be your moment. It is a time for increased faith in God, who is taking you to the edge of the flame. It's only here at the edge of the flame that the possibilities of natural solutions are entirely removed. These moments require more faith and more resistance to evil, but in the end, they result in a more glorious and supernatural work of God. So, if things are heating up in your life right now, hold on in faith longer. Stand up for God and against evil. God might be waiting to provide a supernatural solution revealed through you that turns the powers and people toward him. God, give those men whose lives are standing at the edge of the flame greater faith. Strengthen the Spirit within them so that they pay attention to every action and every word. May they be right and righteous in every way. In Jesus's name, amen.

You observe days and months and seasons and years! I am afraid I may have labored over you in vain. — Galatians 4:10-11 CALL OUT: I want to give a shout-out to Ron Ruch from Emmanuel Church in Minneapolis, MN. He's a legacy disciple-maker and sold-out man of God. Ron has lived a lot of life, but he also won't quit. I love you, brother. Have you ever been so exasperated that you've wondered if you've wasted your time? We all have. We have felt his way at painful points in our career, during a repetitive issue with a problem child, or in the middle of a project that's gone awry. And Paul feels this way right now. He wonders if all the time and training he has invested into these Galatian churches was a waste of time because they have returned to old rites and rituals instead of living in a relationship with Christ. I am so glad Paul expresses his emotion here. He is vulnerable just enough to expose his irritation with these people. Because sometimes people and processes can be very irritating. Can't they? So, if you are exasperated today, you need to know you are not alone. It's okay to feel this way and to share that you feel this way. It is also appropriate to tell the people draining you that they are depleting you of resources because they are unresponsive. Paul does. And he is not being vindictive. He's merely being honest and vulnerable because he has explained the same thing to them 1000 times. I believe this is how some pastors feel every Easter. Yesterday, thousands of inactive members piled into worship services across the world. Most assume that their semiannual pilgrimage to church is all the Lord requires of them. But a pastor will stand in a pulpit twice a year and tell them the same two messages. One about the birth of a Savior and one about the resurrection of a Savior. They are the same story. It is a story about a man who saved sinful men so we could have a relationship with God. Yet people hear the message and are absent from church the other 50 weekends of the year. And why? Because they believe that their rites and rituals are enough. They don't understand the necessity of a relationship with God. So stop irritating your pastor. It's your relationship with Christ that matters—rituals and rites mean nothing to God. Jesus wasn't born into this world to defeat death, so you could come to church twice a year. What he wants is for you to have a vibrant relationship with God. #RitesVsRelationships #AuthenticFaith #PaulineExasperation #BeyondEmptyObservance #LivingInChrist ASK THIS: How can we ensure that our religious practices and observances are not merely rituals, but genuine expressions of our relationship with God? In what ways can we shift our focus from seasonal or occasional religious activities to cultivating a consistent, vibrant relationship with Christ throughout the year? DO THIS: Change your environment in some small way. PRAY THIS: Father, help me to move beyond empty rituals and embrace a deeper, more authentic relationship with You. Guide me in living out my faith daily, not just on special occasions, so that my life reflects the love and truth of Christ to those around me. Amen. PLAY THIS: O Come to the Altar.

After these things Joseph of Arimathea, who was a disciple of Jesus, but secretly for fear of the Jews, asked Pilate that he might take away the body of Jesus, and Pilate gave him permission. So he came and took away his body. Nicodemus also, who earlier had come to Jesus by night, came bringing a mixture of myrrh and aloes, about seventy-five pounds in weight. So they took the body of Jesus and bound it in linen cloths with the spices, as is the burial custom of the Jews. Now in the place where he was crucified there was a garden, and in the garden a new tomb in which no one had yet been laid. So because of the Jewish day of Preparation, since the tomb was close at hand, they laid Jesus there. — John 19:38-42 Most people know the accounts of Jesus's death and resurrection regarding Easter. However, there are some details we often miss during the time between the two events. One is the account and details of his burial. Most people don't realize that burial wasn't guaranteed for the crucified. Victims were often left to rot on their crosses for days until vultures picked over their bodies. Eventually, guards would take what was left of their bodies and dump them in a mass grave. This would have been the fate of Jesus's body if it had not been for two emboldened men. In the shadow of this dark moment, two men stood up and risked their reputations to request the body of Jesus. They were Joseph and Nicodemus. Interestingly, it is these men because both, up until this moment, only secretly followed Jesus. So, who were these guys? Joseph and Nicodemus were wealthy and respected members of the highest Jewish leadership council. They maintained a quiet belief in Jesus but never publicly exposed these beliefs for fear of surrounding religious and political powers. You might remember Nicodemus because he was the man who initially came to Jesus by night to ask some questions about his teachings (John 3:1-21). Together, after Jesus's death, these two join an alliance to request his body and provide a proper burial for Jesus. Nicodemus provided a substantial amount of myrrh and aloes, weighing about seventy-five pounds, to prepare his body for burial. We watch these men move from fearful believers to fearless followers in this event. Here, they did what followers do: They were willing to risk their money and reputations for Jesus, even before he was raised from the dead. They provided a proper burial and a tomb that Jesus wouldn't use for long. In our spiritual lives, we should be moving in the same direction—from scared and secret to cashed-in, sold-out, risk-taking, financially invested believers in Jesus. So, where do you stand? Is there something you need to sacrifice to turn up your commitment to Jesus? But as you consider what you might need to do, remember that Jesus sacrificed everything for you.

But the angel said to the women, "Do not be afraid, for I know that you seek Jesus who was crucified. He is not here, for he has risen, as he said. Come, see the place where he lay." — Matthew 28:5-6 Imagine if you were standing before that tomb. The weight of grief is heavy on you. Then, out of nowhere, you hear a confident and calm voice say, "He is not here. He has risen!" Would your mind even compute this reality? You know what you saw over the last few days. You saw him flogged, ridiculed, sentenced, and crucified. You watched him suffer for hours before a heckling crowd. You were there when they took down his dead body, wrapped him, and placed him in a garden tomb. Would it possibly compute that he was risen indeed? The resurrection of Jesus stretches the limits of our understanding. It challenges the very boundaries of faith. How could a man who was undeniably dead come back to life? It defies logic, reason, and everything we know to be true about the natural order of things. Yet, that is exactly what happened on Easter morning. Jesus, who was undeniably dead, rose to life. By his own power, he triumphed over the one reality that is the end for all humanity—undeniable death. In his resurrection, he demonstrated his power over the dominion of sin and the sentence of death, defeating something ordinary man could not because Jesus was more than an ordinary man—he was God in the flesh. This truth might stretch your mind. You might find it improbable and unbelievable. Jesus understood this. So, he made it easier to believe. He appeared in resurrected form on more than a dozen occasions to over 500 people. He ate with them, walked with them, and talked with them. He made it easier for them to believe. He closed the gap on faith but did not eliminate the need for faith. Today, believers across the planet celebrate the reality of the resurrection. Our faith in his resurrection makes our resurrection a reality. We believe by faith that Jesus defeated sin and death so that we could enjoy salvation from our sins and resurrection life in his name. Without Jesus, this life is hopeless. Sin and death reign supreme. But by faith in Jesus, we believe he is preparing a place for us free from sin and death. Eventually, we will leave the land of the dying and enter the land of the living.

What Makes It Good? On this day in history, the events that unfold mark what believers call Good Friday. This day is full of meaning, prompting us to reflect, remember, and rejoice. As you skim through the timeline of events posted below, you will recount the trials and tribulations that Jesus endured on this day. One question will emerge: "What makes this day so good?" To understand the answer, we must look beyond this day and the visible events. For a moment, we must look past what people are doing to Jesus and see what Jesus is doing. We need to see past the horror inflicted upon him and see the hope initiated by him. The easiest way to see this is to understand the whole story because the events of this day are only a snippet of a larger and longer story—a story told by God. To understand the narrative, you merely need to listen to a few timeless statements that God has been communicating to us through Scripture for generations. They illuminate his plan and reveal why this day is dubbed Good Friday. Four Key Scriptures To The Story Of Good Friday First, God reminds us in Romans 3:23 that this world and its people are perpetually broken and separated from him by our disobedience called "sin": For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God. Second, Galatians 3:13 explains that because of our sins, we were cursed, and we need someone to save us. Therefore, God chose to save us himself and provided his Son, who rescued us from our sins. This text reads: Christ redeemed us from the curse of the law by becoming a curse for us—for it is written, "Cursed is everyone who is hanged on a tree." Next, Colossians 2:14 explains that God planned to pay our sin debt for us. The Cross is where this debt was paid. This text reads: [God] by canceling the record of debt that stood against us with its legal demands. This he set aside, nailing it to the cross. Last is 2 Corinthians 5:21. It clarifies that the payment had to be made by someone sinless. Our sins were purchased and paid for with the currency of a sinless Son who died at the hands of sinful men to save us. The text reads: For our sake he made him to be sin who knew no sin, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God. One Cohesive Story These Scriptures tell one cohesive story—a story of divine intervention and redemption. On this day, 2000 years ago, Jesus saved the world from sin. Despite the injustice he endured—sentenced, scourged, mocked, and crucified—Jesus was simultaneously executing a divine plan. He was redeeming us, lifting the curse by bearing our sins upon that Cross. In this act, he paid the penalty and canceled our debt, purchasing our salvation with his righteousness. Those unwilling to see the divine story and accept their own sinfulness find this event perplexing and the brutality unjust. But for those of us who have acknowledged our disobedience and sin, we see the Cross for what it is—Good News. For us, this day is profound. It's the day when a sinless Savior took upon himself the punishment we rightfully deserve so that we might be righteous before God. That's what makes it Good Friday. The Timeline of Good Friday By The Hour 6:00 AM - Zero Hour Jesus Stands Trial Before Pilate. (Matthew 27:11-14; Mark 15:2-5; Luke 23:1-5; John 18:28-37) Jesus Sent To Herod. (Luke 23:6-12) 7:00 AM - The First Hour Jesus Returned To Pilate. (Luke 23:11) Jesus Sentenced To Die. (Matthew 27:26; Mark 15:15; Luke 23:23-24; John 19:16) 8:00 AM - The Second Hour Jesus Led To Calvary. (Matthew 27:32-34; Mark 15:21-24; Luke 23:26-31; John 19:16-17) 9:00 AM - The Third Hour Jesus Is Crucified. (Mark 15:25) Father Forgive Them. (Luke 23:34) Cast Lots for Jesus's Clothing. (Mark 15:24) 10:00 AM - The Fourth Hour Jesus Is Insulted. (Matthew 27:39-40) Priests And Teachers Mock Jesus. (Mark 15:31) Soldiers Mocked Jesus. (Luke 23:36-37) Criminal Insults Jesus. (Luke 23:39) 11:00 AM - The Fifth Hour Jesus And The Criminal. (Luke 23:40-43) Jesus Speaks To Mary And John. (John 19:26-27) NOON - The Sixth Hour Darkness Covers The Land. (Mark 15:33) 1:00 PM - The Seventh Hour Jesus Cries Out To The Father. (Matthew 27:46) Jesus Is Thirsty. (John 19:28-29) 2:00 PM - The Eighth Hour It Is Finished. (John 19:30) Into Your Hands, I Commit My Spirit. (Luke 23:46) 3:00 PM - The Ninth Hour Events After Jesus's Death. The Earthquake and the Temple Veil Is Torn. (Matthew 27:51-52) The Centurion Believes. (Matthew 27:54; Mark 15:38; Luke 23:47) The Soldiers Break the Thieves' Legs. (John 19:31-33) The Soldier Pierced Jesus's Side. (John 19:34) Jesus is Laid in the Tomb. (Matthew 27:57-61; Mark 15:42-47; Luke 23:50-56; John 19:38-42)

Formerly, when you did not know God, you were enslaved to those that by nature are not gods. But now that you have come to know God, or rather to be known by God, how can you turn back again to the weak and worthless elementary principles of the world, whose slaves you want to be once more? — Galatians 4:8-9 CALL OUT: I want to give a shout-out to Andrew Leck from Rosehill, KS. Thanks so much for your partnership in the Gospel. Your generosity is much appreciated. Paul thinks it is incomprehensible that believers would return to their weak and worthless ways. He cannot understand how they would go back to their old patterns and practices after knowing God and being known by him. He states it's as illogical as a slave who is freed, given sonship, and extended riches, and then returns to his former slavery. Even though this return is idiotic, we all know this is possible given the right amount of social pressure. This is because our social environments play a significant role in what we believe. Constant exposure to the same ideas, images, and messages will affect us. For example, if you are a recovering addict who is only spending time with other users, there's a pressure to conform that will eventually trigger those old patterns. Or, if you are working in corporate America and are constantly being conditioned by ideologies, agendas, training, and planned programs that you are forced to celebrate and promote, even though they are opposed to your faith, you will eventually buy into them. Eventually, you will be influenced by those around you. You can only hold the line so long before their attitudes and behaviors sway you. Immersing yourself in social environments where ungodly principles are celebrated and taught makes it increasingly challenging to resist their influence. The constant barrage of contrary messages will eventually erode your resolve and weaken your commitment to the Gospel truth. And then, you will cave, which is what the believers in the region of Galatia have done. They bought the woke lie. This is why believers need to do two things. First, we need to be in God's Word every day. We are doing that right here, renewing our minds with the Gospel Truth. Second, we need to be in the company of other believers. The influence of believers in our lives needs to proportionately outweigh the impact of unbelievers. For some, this may mean getting more involved in your local church or joining a small group. But it may also mean breaking free from some social environments and relationships affecting you. Some of you need to cut these relationships off and remove yourself from these environments. The challenge today is this: change your environment before your environment changes you. #FreedomInChrist #ResistThePull #RenewYourMind #ChooseYourInfluence #GuardYourHeart ASK THIS: How can you intentionally prioritize spending time in environments that strengthen your faith and resist those that weaken it? Reflect on any social circles or relationships in your life that may be subtly influencing you away from your commitment to the Gospel. What steps can you take to change your environment to align more closely with God's truth? DO THIS: Change your environment in some small way. PRAY THIS: Father, help me to remain steadfast in Your truth and resist the pull of worldly influences. Guide me in choosing environments and relationships that strengthen my faith and honor You. Amen. PLAY THIS: Changed.

And because you are sons, God has sent the Spirit of his Son into our hearts, crying, "Abba! Father!" So you are no longer a slave, but a son, and if a son, then an heir through God. — Galatians 4:6-7 CALL OUT: I want to give a shout-out to Larry Wargel from Columbia, SC. Thanks so much for your partnership in the Gospel. Your generosity is much appreciated. The Spirit is easily one of the most neglected topics in the church. Yet for Paul, the Spirit is significant and central. He is the sign of our sonship—not works of the flesh (e.g., circumcision) but the searing of our hearts by his Spirit. This is not something we do. It's something Christ did at the moment we believed. The Spirit was "sent into our hearts" with a clarion cry. This made me wonder if we resort to works-based righteousness because we are unaware of the Spirit that God seared into us. We lack awareness of his searing and spiritual work. This is what Paul is doing here, he is making the church aware of the Spirit within them. So let me do the same for you. If you believe in Jesus as your Savior and Lord, the Spirit of God lives in you. The sign of the Father is seared upon you, signifying your sonship. The Spirit makes you an infinitely rich son. There is no other thing you need, and there is nothing else you can do that will alter or increase this status. But you do need to learn to rely upon and rest in the Spirit. But it all begins by becoming aware that the Spirit of God lives in you. So acknowledge the Spirit today. Invite him to convict, teach, intercede, guide, comfort, and reveal the truth today. God, thank you for the Spirit you have sent into us. Help me to become more aware of his presence, and help me listen to him as he convicts, teaches, intercedes, guides, comforts, and reveals the truth. Amen. #SpiritualSonship #SpiritWithin #DivineInheritance #AwarenessOfGod #EmbracingTheSpirit ASK THIS: How does the awareness of the Spirit's presence within you change your perspective on your identity and inheritance as a child of God? In what practical ways can you invite the Spirit to work in your life today, trusting in His guidance, comfort, and truth? DO THIS: Invite the Spirit to work. PRAY THIS: Father, thank you for sealing me with your Spirit and making me your son. Help me to live each day aware of His presence and reliant on His guidance, comfort, and truth. Amen. PLAY THIS: Holy Spirit.

I mean that the heir, as long as he is a child, is no different from a slave, though he is the owner of everything, but he is under guardians and managers until the date set by his father. In the same way we also, when we were children, were enslaved to the elementary principles of the world. But when the fullness of time had come, God sent forth his Son, born of woman, born under the law, to redeem those who were under the law, so that we might receive adoption as sons. — Galatians 4:1-5 CALL OUT: I want to give a shout-out to the 1300 men at Men's Advance from Alexandria, MN. Thanks for letting me be with you over the weekend. If you remember back a few days, Paul had compared the Law to a "prison warden" and a "pedagogue." Now, he compares it to "guardians and managers" whose job was to supervise until the date of their status had ended. Here's Paul's illustration. There was a long period of time when your Father (God) used the Law to guard and manage you. During this time, you were like a son who was no different from a slave. You had borne the title "son" but were being guarded and managed, just like a "slave." However, that time is done. The "fullness of your time" as a son has come. You (the sons of Abraham) are now of age through the Father's provision of his Son born under the law, which frees you as slaves and adopts you as sons with all the rights of a pure-blooded heir. Here's Paul's point in context. In the same way, the Law was your former guardian and manager. But now that you are heirs, you don't serve the same guardian and manager. In fact, it would look foolish for you, as a pure-blooded heir adopted as a son, to go back to serving under a guardian and manager when you don't need one. You have a Father, a family, and the freedom to live as sons. Here's Paul's exhortation for the believers in Galatia: The discipleship and discipline of the Law had its time. Its purpose was to train and teach you the way of righteousness. But there comes a point when you no longer need this guardian and manager. By faith, the Father has adopted you as full heirs into his family. So don't go back to the old patterns of living like a slave when you are a son. Circumcision under the Law is one of those old signs that add nothing to your salvation by faith as heirs. Here's the exhortation for you today. By faith, you are an adopted son. By faith, you are a full heir of his righteousness. By faith, you are a son of the living God. If this is the case, why do you immediately return that voice of shame in moments of sin? Why do you let your shame rule over your sonship? This is similar to what the Galatians were doing. They were using former behaviors to fortify their current relationship. But when you let shame rule over your sonship, you are returning to the slavery of the Law. Stop listening to the voice of shame and letting it rule over you. Preach back to this voice, "I am no longer a slave to sin. I am a child of God." Consider singing this song to yourself. I posted it below. #FromSlaveryToSonship #EmbracingAdoption #NoLongerSlaves #IdentityInChrist #FreedByFaith ASK THIS: How does recognizing ourselves as adopted sons of God change the way we view our struggles with sin and shame? In what areas of our lives do we still tend to revert to a "slave mentality" instead of embracing our identity as sons of God, and how can we actively shift our perspective in those areas? DO THIS: Tell your shame, "I am no longer a slave to sin. I am a child of God." PRAY THIS: Father, thank you for adopting me as your son and freeing me from the bondage of sin and shame. Help me to live confidently in my identity as your child, rejecting the voice of shame and embracing the freedom you've given me through Christ. Amen. PLAY THIS: No Longer Slaves.

GET THE BOOK: Daniel: A Strong Man Is Faithful here https://amzn.to/3ToZqOk What impossible situation do you need to bring to God today? In the second year of the reign of Nebuchadnezzar, Nebuchadnezzar had dreams; his spirit was troubled, and his sleep left him. Then the king commanded that the magicians, the enchanters, the sorcerers, and the Chaldeans be summoned to tell the king his dreams. So they came in and stood before the king. And the king said to them, "I had a dream, and my spirit is troubled to know the dream." — Daniel 2:1-3 I don't know about you, but there have been seasons of my life that have been troubled by my dreams. They tend to happen when my anxiety is high, and they are vivid and memorable, which is Nebuchadnezzar's experience here. He had a very vivid dream, which troubled his spirit and even prevented him from finding sleep. Yet, in the case of Nebuchadnezzar, we know that God gave him these dreams. God troubled him with ideas and images that were so vivid he knew there was a meaning behind them. So, what he wants from his seers is the meaning of the dream. But not just that. He wants them to tell him the details of a dream he has not told, which is a pretty impossible order. Have you ever been in a situation where someone has projected their anxiety onto you, demanding your help with an impossible task? I hate to say it, but I encounter this situation every day. Every day, I talk to some man who finds themselves in an impossible predicament. They come to me with problems I cannot solve. Marriages in a mess. Careers in chaos. Families in ruin. Addictions that overwhelm them. And guess what? I feel the weight of these projected anxieties. More than anything, I would love to remove their anxiety and repair the situation so they can find sleep and peace again. But I can't. But there is one thing I can do—and it's something we can all do. We can ask a God who does impossible things to make what is impossible for us possible. In Matthew 19:26, Jesus said: "With man this is impossible, but with God all things are possible." If, at this moment, like Daniel, you are standing before an impossible situation, stop fretting about it and ask God to intervene. There is nothing impossible for him. Have faith. Be faithful. Trust in a faithful God. God, today, make what is impossible for me possible. I acknowledge you are able, and I am unable. In Jesus's name, amen.

And if you are Christ's, then you are Abraham's offspring, heirs according to promise. — Galatians 3:29 CALL OUT: I want to give a shout-out to Mark Robinson from Slidell, LA, who is using our book 30 Men Who Lived With Conviction with his men. Thanks for leading men. We need men of conviction in the world today. Thanks for being that man. Yesterday, we learned how to exegete the previous verse more accurately than many do. We learned that our spiritual oneness in Christ is a status received by faith and celebrated in baptism. It superseded but did not absolve our ethnicity, status, and gender. The great part of being a believer is the blessing of a unified spiritual family. God knows you want and need a family. God knows your family is messed up. God sees the disobedience of your parents. God sees the rebellion of your children. God knows your family is infested with adultery, perversion, addiction, and abuse. God knows the pain of your broken relationships. He also knows the shame you've had to endure and its effects on everyone in your life. And in the shadow of all this darkness, God had a bright plan. His divine providence is so great he knew thousands of years ago that you would endure this. He saw how messed up your family would be, so he made a promise to a man named Abraham. The promise of a new family planned for you, paid for in blood. In Christ, you have a family—a spiritual family full of messed-up people redeemed by the Father. If this is the case, you need to attend church and enjoy the blessing. I know some churches are ridden with issues. Sometimes, these issues exhaust us. Even so, removing ourselves entirely is never the solution. Like Paul, we have to fight through the problems. Paul is fighting at this moment because he knows the advantages far outweigh the disadvantages. He needs the family. The family needs him. It's not his family. It's God's. It has all kinds of blessings when it works well. God planned this family for you. So get to church. Get to know your family and receive the blessing planned and prepared for you in Christ. #AbrahamsOffspring #FamilyInChrist #RedeemedRelationships #ChurchCommunity #BlessedBelonging ASK THIS: Reflecting on your own journey, how has embracing your identity as a member of God's spiritual family impacted your perspective on the brokenness within your biological family? Considering the challenges you face in your church community, what steps can you take to actively participate in and contribute to the blessings of fellowship and unity that God has prepared for His family? DO THIS: Go to church. PRAY THIS: Father, thank you for the incredible blessing of belonging to Your spiritual family through Christ. Help me to actively engage with and contribute to my church community, embracing the blessings of fellowship and unity You have prepared for us. Amen. PLAY THIS: For Me And My House.

There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave nor free, there is no male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus. — Galatians 3:28 CALL OUT: I want to give a shout-out to Chris DeBoer in Peachtree, GA, who is a new monthly partner. I am thankful for you, Chris, and all who support us monthly and faithfully. So many people have taken this text entirely out of context. They use it to leverage ideological positions that this Scripture does not endorse. Let me be clear: This text in no way advocates for social equality and inclusion. It does not promote the fair treatment, opportunity, and acceptance of all individuals regardless of their background, identity, or circumstances. However, please do not hear me say this text endorses racism, slavery, economic oppression, and gender fluidity. It does not endorse either side of this argument because these issues are not what this text is about. Here is why: This text does not speak about social equality. It is speaking about spiritual equality. Sometimes, when we read Scripture, we are going to be tempted to read into a text from our own cultural perspective. This is called eisegesis. Eisegesis is an interesting word. It is a compound Greek word that forms one word and meaning. "Eis" means "into." "Egesis" means "interpretation." Thus, eisegesis is when we interpret a text by reading into it our own presumptions and biases. This is something we should always avoid when reading Scripture. It is easy and tempting to do, especially when you have strong beliefs and convictions about specific social issues. There are people in our time who have some pretty strong opinions on social issues. They are triggered when they hear social references to race, ethnicity, economic disparity, slavery, and gender. Thus, it is very hard for them to put these ideas aside when reading the Scripture. When they encounter a text like this one that seems to defend or dismiss their position, they will pounce all over it. On the other hand, a skilled student of the Scripture exegetes the text. Exegesis is another compound word. "Ex" means "out from." Thus, exegesis is when we draw out the meaning of a text from the text. It's understanding what the text is saying based on its own words, context, and historical background instead of adding your own ideas. You're trying to uncover the original meaning intended by the author. So, if we exegete this text correctly, we will draw out the author's intent instead of importing, imputing, and inserting our intent. So let's do that. But let's reread the text: "There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave nor free, there is no male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus." First, Paul lists three subordinate groupings that are transcended in Christ. They are ethnicity (Jew/Greek), economic status (slave/free), and gender (male/female). Paul never suggests that these categories cease to exist or are no longer a present reality. Our ethnicity, status, and gender are a part of our human existence. But there is something that supersedes them. This leads to Paul making one positive assertion. We (i.e., believers) experience a oneness (i.e., spiritual unity) found only in Christ. Our unity is not found in this world. It is made possible and encountered only in union with Christ. This means our spiritual unity takes precedence over social identity in Christ. If we now carefully place this exegesis into the greater context of the chapter, it will provide even more precise meaning. Paul says our spiritual oneness in Christ is a status received by faith, celebrated in baptism, superseding but not absolving our ethnicity, economic status, and gender. Spirit-filled believers enjoy the blessing of living in a new spiritual family that comes with serious spiritual blessings. The blessing is found in the next verse, which we will read together tomorrow. This is a sound exegesis of this text. As you can see, it does not promote social equality and inclusion. It celebrates a spiritual reality in the church, made possible by Christ. This transcendent reality affects how we perceive each other in Christ without absolving our individuality or condoning human sin. Here's the application of this sound exegesis: Take another look at a believer in Christ. See them from a spiritual perspective and not only a social perspective. If you tend only to see their natural qualities, look beyond that today. Work in your heart to perceive them differently. See them as your brother and as your sister in Christ. Then treat them like a divine member of the spiritual family because, in Christ, you finally gain a diverse family with one thing in common—one Good Great Father. #SpiritualEquality #InChristAlone #BeyondSocialDivides #BiblicalInterpretation #UnityInDiversity ASK THIS: How can you actively cultivate a mindset that sees fellow believers not just through the lens of societal labels but as fellow members of the spiritual family in Christ? Reflect on a

For as many of you as were baptized into Christ have put on Christ. — Galatians 3:27 CALL OUT: I want to give a shout-out to all the staff who follow me at Dekalb Mechanical in Illinois. This is for you today. If you read this text without reading the preceding and succeeding text, you will miss something so important. In the preceding text, Paul has established salvation by faith alone. In the succeeding text, he establishes that through faith, we are born as heirs into a family. Sandwiched right between faith and family is the event of baptism. Do you see it now? Baptism stands at the crossroads between our faith and our family. It's the event that conjoins the two. Baptism means "to immerse." It's a spiritual practice done publicly in which a believer is immersed in water. Jesus was baptized. He was immersed in the waters of the Jordan River, by John the Baptist. In the same way, we are commanded to be baptized. Baptism is an important marker. It's a public profession that proclaims our personal faith in Jesus as Savior and Lord. It's a pronouncement of our surrender to a new way. It's a symbolic ceremony that others in the family witness. It's a symbolic burial of our old life in the water and a resurrection into new life from the water. Church, we need these markers of faith in our spiritual journey, and we need the family who goes with it, too. If you have not been baptized and you are new or old to the faith, I want to implore you to be baptized and take this step. Go to a friend who is a believer, tell a family member who is a believer, or speak to your church leader and express your desire to take this step in your faith. And then tell me after you have done this and I want to celebrate this with you. Don't wait too long to respond to my exhortation today. Some of you have waited too long. Be a little more like the Ethiopian Eunuch who proclaimed to Paul, "See, here is water! What prevents me from being baptized?" (Acts 8:36) #Baptism #FaithAndFamily #ClothedInChrist #SpiritualMilestone #NewLifeInChrist ASK THIS: How does understanding the significance of baptism impact your daily walk with Christ and your relationships within your spiritual family? What steps can you take today to embrace baptism as a public declaration of your faith and commitment to living a new life in Christ? DO THIS: Take action and pursue baptism. PRAY THIS: Lord, I thank you for the gift of baptism, which symbolizes my union with Christ and my commitment to a life transformed by your grace. Help me to continually live out this reality, embracing faith and family as integral parts of my journey with you. Amen. PLAY THIS: Never Be The Same.

So then, the law was our guardian until Christ came, in order that we might be justified by faith. But now that faith has come, we are no longer under a guardian, for in Christ Jesus you are all sons of God, through faith. — Galatians 3:24-26 CALL OUT: I want to give a shout-out to Todd Hansen, our Prayer Team Leader, who is presently in Panama, MX. Thanks so much for your partnership in the Gospel. Which reminds me, if you need prayer, please reach out here: The Prayer Wall. The word "guardian" is a choice word. In the Greek language, the word is "paidagōgos." A paidagōgos or a pedagogue was a slave entrusted with the responsibility of training a child. They weren't just teachers who taught lessons from books constrained to the information that they were an expert in. They served as a living moral compass for the direction and discipline of a child. Then, when the child was old enough, they eventually outgrew the need for their pedagogue. In context, Paul is saying that the law functioned in the same way. The law was a temporary teacher responsible for the direction and discipline of God's people until our justification was revealed. Thus, we are no longer children parented by the guardian of the law, but we are children of God by faith. Paul is telling the believers, it is time to grow up. You are acting like little children, subjecting yourselves to a way that was. You are no longer slaves. You are sons of God. You are recipients of the promise. You are freed from the law of sin. Live by faith in freedom within God's family. Stop going back to the old ways of serving the old pedagogue. That time is done. In the spiritual life, we sometimes need someone to tell us this. So, if you feel stunted in your faith, isn't it time to start doing something about that? Are you going to wait around for someone to spoon-feed you spiritual sustenance like a child in the faith? Or is it time to grow up? To declare and define a point of separation with no return to your childlike ways. If you are ready to do this right now, you could do one of two things: You could either declare there is something you are going to stop doing forever and not go back to it. Or you can declare there is something you are going to start doing that you are going to build into the fabric of your spiritual life. You might even decide to do both. But do me a favor; don't act like a child and do nothing. #FaithOverLaw #SpiritualMaturity #EmbraceSonship #BreakFreeFromLegalism #GrowInFaith ASK THIS: Reflecting on your spiritual journey, in what ways have you relied on religious rules and regulations rather than fully embracing the freedom and sonship offered through faith in Christ? Considering Paul's call to spiritual maturity, what specific steps can you take today to transition from a mindset of spiritual immaturity to one of responsibility and growth in your relationship with God? DO THIS: Stop acting like a child in the faith. PRAY THIS: Father, help me to release the grip of legalism and embrace the freedom and sonship You have provided through faith in Christ. Guide me in my journey toward spiritual maturity, empowering me to live boldly as Your child and to walk in the fullness of Your grace. Amen. PLAY THIS: No Longer Slaves.

But the Scripture imprisoned everything under sin, so that the promise by faith in Jesus Christ might be given to those who believe. Now before faith came, we were held captive under the law, imprisoned until the coming faith would be revealed. — Galatians 3:22-23 CALL OUT: I want to give a shout-out to Colin Steen from Brandon, SD, who purchased numerous copies of 30 Men Who Lived With Conviction. This is one of the easiest books we have for leading men through some great biblical conversations. Thanks, Colin, for stepping in and stepping up and leading men. Paul imagines Scripture as our judge, sin as the jailor, and mankind as the inmates held captive by the law. This imagery combines the damages and the discipline demanded by sin. It is the final judgment pronounced in Paul's case which is this: We are all guilty, sentenced, and captive by sin of which there is no escape without faith in Jesus. This imagery exposes why many don't believe in Jesus. They don't believe that sin's effects are as expansive as Paul expresses here. They think their moral goodness is good enough. Believing this, they conclude one of two things: either they don't need Jesus because they think they are morally good. Or that they are good enough, so if Jesus does exist, he will accept them. But this is faulty logic and exactly the logic taught by the world in every self-help book written and every Disney movie you have ever watched. It is the false belief that mankind, at the core, is good and, therefore, has some ability to save itself by its capabilities, competence, character, and personal capacity. But you can't. It is not possible. Paul says it's impossible. This is why you have to convince someone of the bad news before you tell them the good news. And the bad news is very bad. We are sinful, slaves, serving sentences for our own sins. And there is no escape—except by Jesus. He is the good news. Faith in him saves us from the sentence of our senseless sin, which enslaves us. So get out there today and tell people the Good News. But remember, you might have to tell them the bad news first; otherwise, they won't see the need. God, I pray that the people around us today will see the Good News in each of us, come to their senses about the senseless nature of the sin that enslaves them, and be drawn to the saving power of Jesus Christ, which blows the doors off the prison of sin. #FaithInJesus #FreedomFromSin #GoodNewsBadNews #LiberatedByFaith #SinnersSavedByGrace ASK THIS: How does understanding the depth of our captivity to sin impact our perception of our need for Jesus? In what ways can we effectively communicate the "bad news" of sin's consequences before sharing the "good news" of salvation through Jesus? DO THIS: Explain the bad news with the good news. PRAY THIS: Lord, open my eyes to see the reality of sin's grip on my life and the world around me, and give me the courage to share the liberating message of faith in Jesus with others. May Your saving power break through the darkness of sin, setting hearts free to embrace Your grace and truth. Amen. PLAY THIS: Good News.

Is the law then contrary to the promises of God? Certainly not! For if a law had been given that could give life, then righteousness would indeed be by the law. — Galatians 3:21 CALL OUT: I want to give a shout-out to Will Newcomb from Dover, DE, who watches our devotionals before his 4:00 am workout each day. Here's a spiritual workout for you today. One of the most reasonable and logical arguments against salvation by works is the argument, "If you could've done it, you would've done it. You tried and failed, so God had to do it for you." This is what Paul is saying here. The Law was God's means of getting our attention. It drove us to the reality that we are persistently and perpetually unrighteous and unlawful. It also pointed us to the one ("the offspring") who could live in perfect obedience to the Law and reveal him as the one who provides salvation and righteousness. This is one of the things I love about our God. Everything he does is logical, reasonable, purposeful, and righteous, which leads us to freedom. And don't you want freedom? If you do, wouldn't it be foolish to be freed by God's divine sovereignty and continue to live and act like you are under the bondage of the law? May it never be! Yet I know so many men who live in bondage to sin and shame and keep cycling repeatedly on the same sins. Sometimes, men convince themselves this is their penance. But there is no penance you can pay that Jesus has not paid for you. Remember, "If you could've done it, you would've done it. You tried and failed, so God had to do it for you." Isn't it time to accept his grace, receive his forgiveness, and stop rejecting the righteousness he has already extended to you? Maybe today is the day you will receive what God has done and extended. God, for those living under the bondage of repetitive sins, I pray that they will know, accept, and receive your grace and forgiveness today. Help them stop trying to do it on their own. May your Holy Spirit convict them of their selfish attempts and arrogant rejection of your forgiveness and grace. Make clear to them that they are an entirely new creation with a new identity in you. May they never return to the behaviors and patterns of their old life. Amen. #GraceOverLaw #FreedomInChrist #BreakTheCycle #EmbraceGrace #NewCreation ASK THIS: Reflecting on your own life, in what ways have you found yourself trapped in cycles of sin or legalistic thinking? How can embracing God's grace lead to liberation from these patterns? Consider a time when you've struggled to accept God's forgiveness and grace for your mistakes. How might recognizing the logical and purposeful nature of God's plan for salvation help you fully receive and embrace His forgiveness in your life? DO THIS: Receive God's grace. PRAY THIS: Lord, I confess my tendency to rely on my own efforts and to dwell in shame over my failures. Help me to fully accept and embrace your grace, knowing that through Christ, I am made new and free from the bondage of sin. Amen. PLAY THIS: Made New.

Why then the law? It was added because of transgressions, until the offspring should come to whom the promise had been made, and it was put in place through angels by an intermediary. Now an intermediary implies more than one, but God is one. — Galatians 3:19-20 CALL OUT: I want to give a shout-out to Robert Colbert from Hickory, NC, who purchased some of our leather journals. Thanks, brother! Paul asks a rhetorical question here, "What is the purpose or function of the Law?" In context, the question would be, "If our works by obedience to the Law do not save, and faith in Jesus's works saves, then what is the function of the Law?" This is a great question. One he knew the believers in Galatia might have. A growing believer needs to ask questions. It is right for you to ask them. Too many believers arrive at salvation by an emotional decision and then stop searching. While that moment is significant, it isn't the end—it's the beginning. Sanctification, spiritual growth, and the Holy Spirit await you. There is plenty of corruption in your mind, heart, and soul that God wants to deal with in your life. And these issues should generate lots of troubling questions. In Galatians, Paul is dealing with the corrupt beliefs of works-based salvation—the wrong belief that salvation requires adherence to the Law. If the Galatians see this mistaken belief and turn to salvation by faith alone, it will increase their faith in God, who has planned their salvation from sin from the beginning of time. If you are a believer listening, rejoice in your salvation today. But don't stall out and get stagnant. Ask a good question today, and you might find you get a good answer that only increases your faith in God's greatness. The answer Paul gave the Galatians in our text today is razor-sharp. The Law was given to divide right from wrong, not to make you right or wrong. Faith alone saves you. The Law merely points out how bad you are and how badly you need God's salvation. Do you see how asking a good question might challenge a flawed belief and increase your faith at the same time? Church, great questions lead to great answers and greater faith in a Great God. God, give every believer listening a moment of reflection where they are faced with a good question about you. Provide them with a great answer that will drive away their disbelief. Increase the joy of their salvation. Amen. #FaithVsWorks #GalatiansInsights #LawAndSalvation #GrowInFaith #QuestioningBeliefs ASK THIS: How can we ensure that our understanding of salvation remains rooted in faith rather than works, especially when faced with societal pressures or personal doubts? Reflecting on Paul's message to the Galatians, how can we actively engage in spiritual growth and deepen our relationship with God, moving beyond mere adherence to religious practices? DO THIS: Ask a good question today. PRAY THIS: Lord, help me to continually seek understanding and growth in my faith, relying solely on Your grace for salvation and guidance in my journey. May my questions lead me closer to You, strengthening my trust in Your plan and deepening my relationship with You each day. Amen. PLAY THIS: The Lord Is My Salvation.

GET THE BOOK: Daniel: A Strong Man Is Faithful here: https://amzn.to/3ToZqOk When masculinity is under attack, do you find refuge in your identity in God? Among these were Daniel, Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah of the tribe of Judah. And the chief of the eunuchs gave them names: Daniel he called Belteshazzar, Hananiah he called Shadrach, Mishael he called Meshach, and Azariah he called Abednego. — Daniel 1:6-7 The four young men in this text, Daniel, Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah, were forcibly taken from their homeland and thrust into a culture that stripped away their identity and redefined them according to its standards. The initial assault on their identity came in the form of new names. Their original names, each filled with Godly meaning, were replaced with names honoring the gods of the Babylonian culture. So, let me quickly list their original names and meanings and then compare them with their new names and meanings. Daniel means — God is my judge. He is renamed Belteshazzar, which means — Bel protects his life. Hananiah means — God has acted graciously. He is renamed Shadrach, which means — Aku commands. Mishael means — There is no god like God. He is renamed Meshach, which means — Aku is who god is. Azariah means — God has helped. He is renamed Abednego, which means — Nebo is god. Hopefully, you see what the Babylonian administrator is doing. He is not just giving them new names. He is intentionally removing God's name from each man. This is always the first move of secular indoctrination — the complete removal of the name of God. God must be deleted from history. Even so, Daniel and his three friends remained faithful to God. They refused to compromise their convictions or abandon their allegiance to God. They understood that changing their name did not change their convictions. Their identity was not founded on given names or newly imposed labels, but it was intricately woven into their hearts, minds, and souls by the only true God. We face the same challenges in our own time. Our culture constantly seeks to redefine identity, promoting ideologies that contradict the Scripture. We are told that we can determine our own identity, that gender is fluid, and that morality is relative. But like Daniel and his companions, we must resist these attempts to conform to the patterns of this world. Our identity as believers is created and established only by God. We were made by his hands and crafted in his image. He is the Creator, and we are his clay. Therefore, only he determines our identity, and when we are lost in the ideologies of this world, it can only be found in him. Daniel, Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah understood this. They knew that altering their names did not alter their identity. They understood this was a useless secular attempt to reidentify them. And notice, they didn't throw a fit about it, either. They simply held fast to the truth, knowing deep within that their identity was formed and found only in God. In our time, we should do what these men did. When the world hurls insults at us for our allegiance to God, calling our convictions old-fashioned and toxic, it is vital to anchor our identity in God. We should stand firm in our beliefs yet avoid useless debates. Anchor yourself in what God has declared about you. The only truth about you is told in God's Word. Every other ideology is merely a secular attempt to remove God's name and reidentify his creation. God, in a world that attempts to attack and assault our identity as men. Help us find all our meaning, purpose, and identity in you. In Jesus's name, amen.

This is what I mean: the law, which came 430 years afterward, does not annul a covenant previously ratified by God, so as to make the promise void. For if the inheritance comes by the law, it no longer comes by promise; but God gave it to Abraham by a promise. — Galatians 3:17-18 CALL OUT: Shout out to Chase Shrum from Houston, TX, who graciously encourages men to check out our resources and daily devotionals. I cannot thank you enough. I know sometimes texts like this one, read exclusively, can feel very cryptic; however, the meaning is simple. Paul is stating a chronological fact. The promise God made to Abraham was not changed by God at the advent of the Mosaic Law, which occurred 430 years later. Or, to emphasize the issue at hand, the faith of Abraham's covenant and blessing was not ratified 430 years later by works of the Law. Faith was and still is the means of the Abrahamic blessing. This draws attention to a danger we constantly face as believers—losing touch with the truth of Scripture. Every believer needs to read the Scripture for themselves. You need to pick up your Bible and read it. You need to mature beyond consuming the regurgitated text of a popular pastor who preaches a proof text. You need to read more than the New Testament. You need to read both Testaments. The whole Bible tells a whole story. One congruent story that God has been telling since the beginning of time. In the thread Paul references right here, we see one covenant, one blessing, one promise, one Son, and one sacrifice for all people provided by faith. The only way to see God's divine design is to read the thread for yourself. When you read it, you will see it. The carefully woven, intricately connected, divine design of our Sovereign God in whom we have faith. Reading the whole of the Bible will strengthen your faith and maybe even correct the corrupt beliefs you have about him. #FaithfulPromises #BiblicalTruth #GodsCovenant #ScriptureReading #StrengthenYourFaith ASK THIS: How does reading the entire Bible, both Old and New Testaments, enhance one's understanding of God's unchanging promises and faithfulness throughout history? In what ways can we ensure that we're not just relying on secondhand interpretations of Scripture but actively engaging with the text ourselves to deepen our faith and correct any misconceptions we may have about God? DO THIS: Set a goal of reading the entire Bible. PRAY THIS: Father, thank you for your unchanging promises that are revealed throughout Scripture. Help me to dive deeper into your Word, to read it with understanding, and to trust in your faithfulness in every season of my life. Amen. PLAY THIS: Faithful.

To give a human example, brothers: even with a man-made covenant, no one annuls it or adds to it once it has been ratified. Now the promises were made to Abraham and to his offspring. It does not say, "And to offsprings," referring to many, but referring to one, "And to your offspring," who is Christ. — Galatians 3:15-16 CALL OUT: Shout out to Adam Wallace from Chesapeake, VA, who is launching his own independent group for men in his community. We love and support you and we are praying for you. Two things stand out to me from this text: First, God makes unchanging covenants rooted in his unchanging character. Second, God fulfills covenants down to the letter, underscoring his meticulous sovereignty. In our world of shifting alliances and broken promises, it's hard to grasp the nature of this type of covenant. The truth we hear is mostly subjective; therefore, trust is ever-changing. We see this in courtroom dramas and political debates. We are drowned in conflicting narratives telling us different truths, leaving us wondering who to listen to and believe. But with God, covenants are different. It's hard for our minds to comprehend this. Therefore, naturally, we make assumptions and conclusions that are varying degrees off. The Judaizers in Galatia are slightly off in their understanding of God's covenant and promise. It was a covenant through one man, one offspring, and one seed—Jesus. It was not through righteous "men" but a righteous "man" that the blessing of the covenant would be realized for all men. It was made possible through Jesus by faith. The same faith that Abraham had in the future blessing that would come through him to all men. This is what is so spectacular about faith in God. His meticulous sovereignty and unending character are etched into every covenant he makes down the letter. This makes him unlike man and, therefore, trustworthy in the purest sense of that word. This means he is worthy of all your faith. So abandon your life to him in faith today. He is trustworthy. #GodsUnchangingPromises #MeticulousSovereignty #TrustworthyFaith #CovenantalFaithfulness #AbrahamToChrist ASK THIS: How does understanding the unchanging nature of God's covenants affect the way you perceive and trust His promises in your own life? In what areas of your life do you struggle to fully trust God's meticulous sovereignty, and how can you actively surrender those areas to Him in faith today? DO THIS: Abandon your life to Jesus in faith. PRAY THIS: Father, thank You for Your unchanging character and the meticulous way You fulfill Your promises. Help me to trust in Your sovereignty and surrender all areas of my life to Your faithful care. Amen. PLAY THIS: Abandoned

Christ redeemed us from the curse of the law by becoming a curse for us—for it is written, "Cursed is everyone who is hanged on a tree"— so that in Christ Jesus the blessing of Abraham might come to the Gentiles, so that we might receive the promised Spirit through faith.— Galatians 3:13-14 CALL OUT: Shout out to Pastor Mark Roberts, from Crawfordsville, IN, who shares these devotionals with all the men of his church. "Redeemed" is such a good word. It's a marketplace term that means "to buy back." In context, we picture our impossible "debt" exposed by the law and evidenced by our sin, which leaves us subject to a curse that we cannot "pay." Yet, there is a standing covenant made by God. God promised a blessing to Abraham. This blessing comes through the promised Messiah, given by God, who will pay our debt—one we could not pay. As a result, his Son became the curse for us, "buying us back" for himself. Our improbable penalty required a divine payoff. The debt was so expansive that God could make the only possible payment. It must be paid for all sins in all time, past, present, and future. Only God could afford "to buy us back." The payment—his Son. "For our sake he made him to be sin who knew no sin, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God (2 Corinthians 5:21). This payment is a great exchange. Jesus pays our curse with his life. He dies sinless as a sacrifice for our sins. The curse on us is lifted. We become God's righteousness. On top of all this, we receive the promised Holy Spirit. But all this hinges on one thing—and it's not our works—it's faith. In simpler terms, Paul is saying that you cannot build back better; you have to be bought back better, which is only possible by confident faith in what God did on that old rugged Cross. #RedeemedByGrace #SacrificeAndSalvation #FromCurseToBlessing #FaithInChrist #BoughtBackBetter ASK THIS: How does understanding the concept of redemption change your perspective on your own worth and value in God's eyes? In what practical ways can you express gratitude for Christ's sacrifice and redemption in your daily life? DO THIS: Believe it. You are brought back better by Jesus. PRAY THIS: Lord, thank you for the incredible gift of redemption through your Son, Jesus Christ. Help me to live each day in gratitude for this amazing act of love and to share the hope of redemption with others. Amen. PLAY THIS: Old Rugged Cross.

Now it is evident that no one is justified before God by the law, for "The righteous shall live by faith." But the law is not of faith, rather "The one who does them shall live by them."— Galatians 3:11-12 CALL OUT: Shout out to Mark Lerom, who is hosting me at Men's Advance this year. I am excited to be with you, 700+ guys. Let's see what God does! These verses may sound a bit cryptic if you only read them once, but if you read them multiple times, Paul is saying there are two ways to salvation. Yep, you read that right. This text contains two quotes from Old Testament Scriptures. The first is from Habakkuk 2:4, and the second is from Leviticus 18:5. The operative connecting phrase is "shall live by," which is found in both. The first declares justification by faith, while the second declares justification by works. The first is humanity's only possible means of salvation, and the second is Jesus Christ's means of providing salvation, who is "The one" of the text. So yes, there are two ways to salvation. One way, the second way, would require someone to fulfill the entire works of the Pentateuchal law, with its 242 positive commands and 365 prohibitions. Only this person could stand before God at judgment and be justified on the basis of his performance. That person, of course, was Jesus (Matthew 5:17). This way is impossible for us. The first way is our only hope. Therefore, we have only one possible way to salvation: "by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me" (Galatians 2:20). Paul is going to beat this point to death, hoping that the Galatians will see the hopeless nature of a doctrine of justification by works. He is trying to beat this out of their minds. The effort he makes is notable. It is exactly what we should do when we encounter questionable ideologies. We should test them against Scripture. Then, we should test them again against the work of Jesus Christ. If they don't pair up, we need to refuse and remove them from our minds and lives because our only hope is faith in Jesus. Put your faith in him today. #FaithVsWorks #JustificationByFaith #SalvationThroughChrist #GalatiansInsights #HopeInJesus ASK THIS: How does understanding the contrast between justification by faith and justification by works impact your daily walk with Christ? In what areas of your life do you find yourself relying more on your own efforts rather than trusting in God's grace through faith? DO THIS: Have faith. There is only one possible way. PRAY THIS: Father, help me to fully grasp the depth of your grace and the significance of justification by faith alone. Guide me to place my trust entirely in Christ, knowing that my salvation rests solely on His finished work on the cross. Amen. PLAY THIS: Faithful God.