Gracefully Truthful

  • #HisWordsBeforeOurs
  • contact@gracefullytruthful.com
  • Register!
  • Today’s Journey
  • Previous Journeys
  • Faces of Grace
  • GT Bookstore
  • Our Mission
    • Our Mission
    • #HisWordsBeforeOurs
    • Our Beliefs
    • Translations Matter
    • #GTGoingGlobal
    • Our Team
#GTGoingGlobal

Christ

Another Day 11 Loving Devotion

March 20, 2023 by Meribeth Schierbeek Leave a Comment

Another Day 11 Loving Devotion

Meribeth Schierbeek

March 20, 2023

Accepted,Adoration,Character,Christ,church

Read His Words Before Ours!

Romans 12:9-21
Psalm 139:1-7
Luke 19:1-10
1 Thessalonians 5:12-28

What a beautiful title!
Loving devotion!

Where might your mind go as you ponder these two words?

I love when my husband devotes time to me. Last night, as we were winding down from the day and he was scrolling the TV channels, he stopped, looked across the room at me, and asked what I was looking at. I shared quickly, thinking it was just a simple query. 

But he put the remote down, and asked me to say more, drawing out what I enjoyed about the topic I was researching. It was a sweet gift to feel the devotion, be seen in that moment and feel his love in a meaningful way through the gift of conversation.

Does this happen every night? Not a chance… sometimes we are just tired by the end of the day, and all we have is our presence.

What are some ways you feel known and loved? 
Who turns towards you with devotion? 
How can we express our gratitude and devotion in return?

Beyond our human relationships, what does it look like to lovingly devote our lives to worshiping Jesus and loving and serving His people? How do we live as Romans 12:10 instructs, “Love one another deeply as brothers and sisters. Take the lead in honoring one another”?

I don’t know about you, but I like the real-life narrative of Zacchaeus. Take a minute to reread his story in Luke 19:1-10.

What did you notice about Jesus?
What did you notice about Zacchaeus?

If you’re new to the Bible, let me share the significance of Zacchaeus’ job as a tax collector. Men in this role were generally dishonest, self-gratifying collectors who lined their own pockets by cheating their fellow Jews! They were installed by Roman occupiers who cared nothing about integrity as long as Rome got its due, plus more. As such, tax collectors were often considered traitors and among the worst in Jewish society. 

Yet, the Holy Spirit draws Zacchaeus’ interest onto Christ, and Jesus calls the much-despised Zacchaeus by name and pursues a relationship with him! (Luke 19:5) Jesus demonstrates how to love people on the path with us, and we get to leave their response to the Lord.

I loved Jesus’ words in the ESV (English Standard Version) translation I’m reading, “Zacchaeus, hurry and come down for I MUST stay at your house today” and Zacchaeus responds by… hurrying down and receiving him joyfully!

Have you ever been in the shoes of Zacchaeus? On the receiving end of extravagant love despite who you are and what you’ve done? Perhaps you’ve heard the voice of someone who loves you and looks your way and says, “I want to spend some time with you today!” This is the Jesus kind of love. This is “One-Another” kind of love. This is the lifestyle love we are called to exhibit in our everyday lives as believers. 

I know for a fact Zacchaeus’s life changed that day by the words in Luke…”hurrying down and receiving Him joyfully.” 

Our life with Jesus is one of fellowship with Jesus, and it begins with the same simple act Zacchaeus demonstrated in genuine, joyful humility: receiving Jesus with joy. Jesus Christ, as God the Son, left His place in heaven and came as a baby to live and sacrifice Himself as an atonement (an offering on behalf of someone else) for us. Our wretchedness caused by our sin nature leaves us and Zacchaeus looking like twins, and still, Jesus calls each of us by name to humble ourselves at the cross where His death covers every sin with His own blood. Have you received His offered embrace by confessing your sin and receiving His righteousness? Here, in this beautiful place of welcome, we get to share Christ’s invitation first for ourselves and then with anyone at any time.

Sometimes, like Jesus on the path to somewhere else, our opportunity to share comes at inconvenient times, while other times it might feel like it fits perfectly in our timing. Either way, the embrace of Jesus is meant to be shared and we are meant to readily hold it out.

Are we actively receiving the loving devotion of our Father?
Are we bringing it into our everyday world?

If you haven’t read #HisWordsBeforeOurs in Psalm 139:1-7, go back and do it! In order to love others as God loves us it helps to know more about God and how He loves us.

What goes through your mind as you read those seven verses?
How is the Lord lovingly devoted to you?
How might this reality shape your everyday life as you serve and love those God puts in your path?

Just as Zacchaeus was, so have we been seen and loved by Jesus!
What will we do with this extravagant, embracing, invitational love?
I pray it will fuel us to exhibit genuine, authentic loving devotion to our Savior as His Spirit enables us to bring truth and love to a hurting world!

Tags :
Christ,church,family,love,One Another
Share This :

Recent Journeys

The GT Weekend! ~ Another, Week 3
March 25, 2023
Another Day 15 Service With Love: Digging Deeper
March 24, 2023
Another Day 15 Service With Love
March 24, 2023

Another Day 12
Digging Deeper

What intimacy awaits those who feel lonely, fearful, and depressed.

What sweet connection awaits us if only we would pour ourselves over His Scripture and meditate on His character day and night.
Dig Deeper!

Can We Pray With You?

Prayer is central to our ministry as believers in Jesus as we carry eachother’s burdens and intercede for one another. Our team is honored to share the work of praying alongside you!

  • prayer@gracefullytruthful.com
This Week's Lock Screen
Explore This Journey Theme!
March 6 - March 24, 2023 - Journey Theme #115

Join a GT POD!

Authentically living out a life of worship to the God who rescued us from darkness requires accountability and intentionality. Join a GT POD and take the next step in your faith journey!

  • gtpods@gracefullytruthful.com
Join the GT Facebook Community!
Free Registration!
Share Your Story!
Posted in: Accepted, Adoration, Character, Christ, church Tagged: Christ, church, family, love, One Another

Another Day 10 Holy Submission

March 17, 2023 by Michelle Brown Leave a Comment

Another Day 10 Holy Submission

Michelle Brown

March 17, 2023

Christ,Humility,Jesus,Reflection,Relationship,Submission

Read His Words Before Ours!

Ephesians 5:15-21
Luke 2:41-52
John 6:36-40
Philippians 2:1-11
Isaiah 66:1-2

Submission is often a touchy and misunderstood topic, yet it is a vital aspect of our Christian walk. 

“[B]e filled by the Spirit: speaking to one another in psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs, singing and making music with your heart to the Lord, giving thanks always for everything to God the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, submitting to one another in the fear of Christ.” (Ephesians 5:18-21, emphasis mine)

If we are to submit to one another, we must consider why God places such an emphasis on its role in the church.

Submission is defined as an “act of referring to a third party for judgment or decision”; a study of the word’s Latin roots adds, “a lowering, letting down; sinking,” and “to reduce, yield.”  As a verb, submission means “to place (oneself) under the control of another, to yield oneself.” Already, we see common themes! Keep these in mind as we explore submission in honoring God and others.

We find the perfect model of submission in Jesus Christ’s submission to the will of the Father. Submission to the Father characterized Jesus’ life from a young age. Following a Passover celebration in Jerusalem, Luke 2:41-49 describes how Jesus remained in the city unbeknownst to His parents. They found Him three days later, sitting among the religious leaders and asking questions. 

When they expressed their anxiety at losing Him, Jesus responded, “Why were you searching for me? [. . .] Didn’t you know that it was necessary for me to be in my Father’s house?” (Luke 2:49) Jesus was willing to submit Himself to the Father, even at the cost of causing conflict with His earthly parents. 

Throughout the gospels, we see Jesus’ continued submission to the Father’s will. In Matthew 4:1-11, Satan tempted Jesus to worship him and rebel against the Father,
but Christ,
the Son of God, 
used the Word of God 
to dispel Satan’s attempt to turn Him from God’s ordained plan of salvation. 

In the final hours before His arrest, despite the intense suffering He knew awaited Him, Jesus’ prayers revealed His submission to God’s plan for redemption.

“My Father, if this [cup of suffering] cannot pass unless I drink it, Your will be done.” (Matthew 26:42)

John 6:38 reiterates, “For I have come down from heaven, not to do My own will, but the will of Him who sent Me.” 

1 Peter 2:24 succinctly reveals the fruit of Jesus’ submission. “He himself bore our sins in His body on the tree; so that, having died to sins, we might live for righteousness.” 

Philippians 2:1-11 sums up Jesus’ submission by explaining He was born as a human being and humbled Himself in obedience to God, dying a criminal’s death. “For the joy that lay before him, he endured the cross,” doing the will of the Father.
“See, I have come to do your will [. . .] By this will we have been sanctified through the offering of the body of Jesus Christ once for all time.” (Hebrews 10:10)

Similarly, we are called to follow Jesus’ example in submitting to God. This holy submission stands in sharp contrast to how the world and some Christians view submission, such as oppressive, sexist, or justification for husbands to abuse wives.

Submission is evidence of the work of the Holy Spirit within us. Through faith in Christ, we receive His righteousness as our own and keep His commandments through the power of the Holy Spirit.

Submission denies us the power and privilege we want,
instead choosing to stand under the Lord’s authority, wisdom, and power. 

Philippians 2:1-11 helps us understand submission practically by noting its key attributes like humility, loving one another, working together, being humble and considering others as better than ourselves. This is the same attitude Jesus Christ displayed when He humbled Himself in obedience to God and died on the cross in our place. Submission to God’s rule and reign begins with humility and is displayed through genuine love, generosity, and service to all people.

We can submit to one another in real-life and bring honor to the God who humbled Himself for us!

Prayer & Scripture Study
Consistent Bible reading and fellowship with God allows us to know Him and teaches us how to practically love and minster to others. Just as Jesus prioritized time alone with God, so should we. (Matthew 14:23)

Consider Others First
In holding our own desires loosely and actively asking God to use us to love well, opens the door for authentic submission. We can trust that even if submission doesn’t feel fun, God will lead us to that which is “good, pleasing, and perfect[.]” (Romans 12:2)

Servant Heart, Hands, & Feet
Practice choosing to serve others in real-life scenarios as the Holy Spirit leads you to build others up. (1 Thessalonians 5:11)

Known & Listened To
Take time to honor others with active listening. Without intentional listening to know the other person, we make our submitted service or generous outreach more about our own good feelings than loving others or honoring God. (James 1:19)

Submission is bigger than our preferences and bigger than ourselves. It allows our ego to die so we can enter a joy-filled life with Christ, living in God’s pleasure as He says, “Well done, good and faithful servant!” (Matthew 25:21)

Tags :
Christ,generous,humility,love,Submission
Share This :

Recent Journeys

The GT Weekend! ~ Another, Week 3
March 25, 2023
Another Day 15 Service With Love: Digging Deeper
March 24, 2023
Another Day 15 Service With Love
March 24, 2023

Another Day 10
Digging Deeper

Time is one of the most valuable things we have, and most of us frequently squander it on unworthy endeavors. We scroll through our social media pages, looking up to find we have spent an hour viewing dance trends, pranks and clever pet videos.

Sometimes the things that drain our time are not so benign, and are actually evil pursuits that bring us harm and separate us from God.
Dig Deeper!

Can We Pray With You?

Prayer is central to our ministry as believers in Jesus as we carry eachother’s burdens and intercede for one another. Our team is honored to share the work of praying alongside you!

  • prayer@gracefullytruthful.com
This Week's Lock Screen
Explore This Journey Theme!
March 6 - March 24, 2023 - Journey Theme #115

Join a GT POD!

Authentically living out a life of worship to the God who rescued us from darkness requires accountability and intentionality. Join a GT POD and take the next step in your faith journey!

  • gtpods@gracefullytruthful.com
Join the GT Facebook Community!
Free Registration!
Share Your Story!
Posted in: Christ, Humility, Jesus, Reflection, Relationship, Submission Tagged: Christ, generous, humility, love, Submission

The GT Weekend! ~ Another, Week 1

March 11, 2023 by Katelyn Palmer Leave a Comment

The GT Weekend! ~ Another, Week 1

Katelyn Palmer

March 11, 2023

Blessed,Character,Christ,church,Family,Fellowship

Rest your soul through reflective journaling,
praying Scripture,
and worshiping the Creator who
longs for intimacy with each of us!

This Week's Journeys

Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday
Friday
Friday's DD

Pray His Words Back To Him!

Colossians 3:12-15

Therefore, as God’s chosen ones, holy and dearly loved, put on compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience, bearing with one another and forgiving one another if anyone has a grievance against another. Just as the Lord has forgiven you, so you are also to forgive. Above all, put on love, which is the perfect bond of unity. And let the peace of Christ, to which you were also called in one body, rule your hearts. And be thankful.”
Read More Of His Words

Prayer Journal Entry

Dear Yahweh, this week has been full of rich reminders that You are the embodiment of love and, as we are created in Your image, we too are meant to embody Your love. Please soften our hearts and tame our tongues so that we may “keep [them] from evil and [our] lips from deceitful speech”. (Psalm 34:13)

Help us humbly slow down and “give careful thought to do what is honorable in everyone’s eyes”. (Romans 12:17) Let Your holy peace rule our hearts, Lord, and give us the strength and wisdom to heed Your call in Colossians 3:12-15.

Above all, You instruct us to “put on love, which is the perfect bond of unity,” (Colossians 3:14) and the perfect representation of our Creator, the God of Peace. (Romans 16:20) With Your instruction on our hearts this week, please guide our steps and our thoughts, Lord, as we seek love and peace in this broken world. By Your grace and in Your Son’s name I pray, Amen.

Worship Through Song

Journal Prompts

JOURNAL ONE

Love. Our Creator, the Lord of the Heavens, the God of Peace, He is love.

He created us in love and then appointed us to lovingly care for the rest of His Creation. His commandment to love and care for one another, especially those within the Body of Christ, perfectly aligns with the commandment to care for all of creation. Understanding what that looks like practically can be difficult, but like the faithful king He is, Jesus provides the answers we seek.

In Matthew 5, Jesus commands us to be peacemakers (Matthew 5:9) and extend a gentle hand to our friends and enemies alike. (Matthew 5:43-48) A peacemaker seeks resolution with those she has grievances with, armed with a forgiving heart like Jesus. (Colossians 3:13)

As we move into a new week, we must ask ourselves if we have any idling grievances, and if so, how can we initiate conflict resolution with those with whom unity is broken. Christ urges us to seek harmony (Psalm 133, Romans 12:18–20) and use our gifts to promote the unity of the Church. (Romans 12:4-8)

When our differences begin to cloud our duty to serve Christ, we must see the Lord standing behind them and remember He is the One to whom we are truly submitting.

JOURNAL TWO

God gives us the choice to follow Him and He is clear what that entails, full surrender to His good Father heart of kind love. His ways may not make sense to us as He calls us to place others before ourselves and choose humble love over self-assertion and getting ahead. But these are the ways of a gentle Father who loves to love and commands us to do the same.

Therefore, just as we must willingly accept His invitation to salvation, we must willingly accept the responsibility that comes with carrying out a life of humble, committed love to one another. This truth should act as the foundation for all our actions.

Pause to prayerfully consider when you are most likely to fall into the temptation of elevating self over tender care for others. Bring these to the Lord and allow Him to shift your heart as you read His Word. While we live in a broken world full of things trying to undermine us, Paul’s phrasing in Romans 12:18 leaves no room for misinterpretation, “as far as it depends on you.” We are in control of our choices and we hold accountability and responsibility for every action we choose. 

Let’s choose unity for the sake of Christ’s Beloved Bride, the Church!

JOURNAL THREE

We live in a world readily promoting “me first”, “my rights”, “my truth”, and “my feelings and desires” above all else.

In contrast, those who have been redeemed by Christ, are indwelt by God’s Spirit, and are being transformed by the renewing of our minds have a stirring within us as we consider the world’s perspective. The world’s attitude runs completely counter to the Spirit of God within those who have trusted Christ as Savior.

Believers in Jesus have been blessed with the Spirit of Truth, by which the Lord God shapes us to reflect Him! (1 Corinthians 2:12-15, John 6:44). The entire New Testament tells us it’s not about me. It’s about God and in our pursuit of God, our life is meant to love them. (Matthew 22:37-39) Them refers to everyone else.

If we use Christ’s life on earth to be our example for our thoughts, actions, and attitudes then we understand we are designed to use our lives to serve others. Submission, then, is focused on the Lord and obedience to His will follows with joyful delight!

Selfless obedience can look like forgoing your desires or airing your opinion in order to promote unity among those around you, especially when with those who are weaker in faith. (Romans 14) Obedience to the Lord doesn’t always result in immediate happiness, but it will result in ultimate joy for His glory!
Tags :
Christ,compassion,faith,family,fellowship
Share This :

Recent Journeys

The GT Weekend! ~ Another, Week 3
March 25, 2023
Another Day 15 Service With Love: Digging Deeper
March 24, 2023
Another Day 15 Service With Love
March 24, 2023

Join Us On The Journey!

Want encouragement
on the daily?
Registration gives you free, every day access to encouragement, weekly worship prompts, and daily Bible study that applies to real life.
Journey On!

Can We Pray With You?

Prayer is central to our ministry as believers in Jesus as we carry eachother’s burdens and intercede for one another. Our team is honored to share the work of praying alongside you!

  • prayer@gracefullytruthful.com
This Week's Lock Screen
Explore This Journey Theme!
March 6 - March 24, 2023 - Journey Theme #115
Join the GT Facebook Community!
Free Registration!
Share Your Story!
Posted in: Blessed, Character, Christ, church, Family, Fellowship Tagged: Christ, compassion, faith, family, fellowship

Philemon Day 15 Friends & Neighbors

March 3, 2023 by Lori Meeks Leave a Comment

Philemon Day 15 Friends & Neighbors

Lori Meeks

March 3, 2023

church,Community,Courage,Encourage,Faith,Family,Fellowship

Read His Words Before Ours!

Philemon 1:23-25
Acts 15:36-40
Colossians 4:10-15
Genesis 2:15-22

“Epaphras, my fellow prisoner in Christ Jesus, sends you greetings, and so do Mark, Aristarchus, Demas, and Luke, my coworkers. The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit.” (Philemon 1:23-25)

How often do we skip right over these benedictions in Scripture? If you’re anything like me, do you ever wonder why these verses are included and important to the Bible? 

2 Timothy 3:16 (emphasis mine) tells us, “All Scripture is inspired by God and is profitable [. . .] so that the [woman] of God may be complete, equipped for every good work.”

Therefore, these closing verses are God-inspired and useful in our journey! Let’s jump in and see what we learn as we meet Philemon’s coworkers.

Epaphras is first mentioned in Colossians 1:7-8, then again in 4:12:
“Epaphras, who is one of you, a servant of Christ Jesus, sends you his greetings. He is always wrestling for you in his prayers, so that you can stand mature and fully assured in everything God wills.”  

Here, we gain some insight into this man with an unusual name. Possibly one of the founders of the church in Colossae, Epaphras partnered with the Apostle Paul in deep care for the church and in ministry. 

Mark, often referred to as John Mark in Scripture, is more familiar as the author of the gospel of Mark. John Mark was also a cousin to Barnabas (Colossians 4:10), who often traveled with Paul; Mark is introduced in Acts 12:12, 25. 

Paul’s relationship with Mark was tumultuous. While we don’t know the details, at some point, Mark left the group of missionaries traveling with Paul. (Acts 15:36-40) It’s possible Mark was young, immature, or just took a wrong turn, as many of us do in our journeys following Jesus. This upset Paul so deeply that when Mark tried to rejoin the mission, the team parted ways over his return. 

The letter to Philemon, however, leads us to believe they were reconciled. In 2 Timothy 4:11, Paul even requested, “Bring Mark with you, for he is useful to me in the ministry.” Paul’s words indicate the men had grown to rely on each other as they served together to advance the gospel of Jesus Christ. 

Next is Aristarchus, who we learn from Acts 27:2 is a Macedonian from Thessalonica and a companion of Paul. We meet him when Acts 19:21-41 describes a riot in Ephesus. Aristarchus, as Paul’s traveling companion, was swept along as the mob converged on a local amphitheater. 

Additionally, he accompanied Paul on his missionary journeys (Acts 20:1-6), as well as on his trip to Rome. In Colossians 4, Paul referred to Aristarchus as a “fellow prisoner.” Throughout the trials accompanying spreading the Gospel, Aristarchus remained a devoted co-laborer with Paul.  

Demas, like the other men, started out as a “fellow worker” of Paul’s and was with him in Rome. (Colossians 4:14) However, 2 Timothy 4:9-10 reveals his commitment was short-lived, “Make every effort to come to me soon, because Demas has deserted me, since he loved this present world, and has gone on to Thessalonica.”

As I was researching these men, one commentary made an interesting point: at least three of them (Epaphras, Aristarachus, and Mark) were faithful workers in sharing the Gospel, starting churches and going on missions with Paul, yet I cannot recall a sermon preached about Epaphras or Aristarchus. 

Yet, clearly they were hard-working and faithful companions to Paul, who wrote most of the New Testament. From their stories, we learn we don’t have to be well-known to do great work for Jesus. These lesser-known men were simply faithful to God’s call and faithful to their mentor, Paul. Here is a lesson for all of us! 

As I write, I’m reminded of the song “You’ve Got a Friend in Me.” 
We were not made to do life alone. (Genesis 2:18) 
We all need people in our lives. 
People to serve with us, to encourage us, to stick by our side no matter what. 
People who will continue the work of Jesus when we can’t. 
People who share the desire to serve our Father. 

Personally, I have been blessed with such people. My kids call us the Kool Momz; these ladies (Marla, Dawn, and Katherine) love Jesus and desire to honor and serve Him as much as I. We pray together, eat together, laugh together and support each other. 

This past fall, Katherine’s daughter was diagnosed with cancer, devastating news that rocked her to the core. But God knew and He had worked to bring the four of us together so she did not walk through that deep valley alone. We stood in the gap for our hurting friend, doing whatever was needed, whenever it was needed. And when they received the news the cancer was gone – we celebrated together! 

I pray each of you will find your people, those with whom you can do life. 
Those who will encourage you, challenge you to grow in Jesus, pray with you, study with you, walk beside you during the hard, and celebrate with you during the good. 
The grace of God bonds us not only as friends, but as family.
Life is better together!

Tags :
Christ,Community,family,grow,trust
Share This :

Recent Journeys

The GT Weekend! ~ Another, Week 3
March 25, 2023
Another Day 15 Service With Love: Digging Deeper
March 24, 2023
Another Day 15 Service With Love
March 24, 2023

Philemon Day 15
Digging Deeper

We are all sinners, saved only by grace through faith in Jesus Christ. We may think otherwise, but the reality is that in our flesh, we are utterly unable to forgive and release the debt we feel others owe us for any sin, wound or infraction.
Dig Deeper!

Can We Pray With You?

Prayer is central to our ministry as believers in Jesus as we carry eachother’s burdens and intercede for one another. Our team is honored to share the work of praying alongside you!

  • prayer@gracefullytruthful.com
This Week's Lock Screen
Explore This Journey Theme!
Feb 13 - Mar 3, 2023 - Journey Theme #114

Join a GT POD!

Authentically living out a life of worship to the God who rescued us from darkness requires accountability and intentionality. Join a GT POD and take the next step in your faith journey!

  • gtpods@gracefullytruthful.com
Join the GT Facebook Community!
Free Registration!
Share Your Story!
Posted in: church, Community, Courage, Encourage, Faith, Family, Fellowship Tagged: Christ, Community, family, grow, trust

Philemon Day 10 Purposed Pain

February 24, 2023 by Rebecca Adams Leave a Comment

Philemon Day 10 Purposed Pain

Rebecca Adams

February 24, 2023

Broken,Enemies,Fear,Freedom,Suffering

Read His Words Before Ours!

Philemon 1:14-16
Romans 5:1-5
Isaiah 42:5-9

He was a prisoner,
writing to a free man,
about a slave
who had escaped and cheated his way into freedom.

The escapee?
He was the free man’s runaway slave.


Ironic, isn’t it?
Oh, did I mention the prisoner’s only “crime” was speaking of Jesus?
The one bound by unfair shackles was advocating
to the free man
on behalf of the runaway.  

Does a sense of justice rub your soul the wrong way about now?

We read the words again, imagining the scene in our minds. It doesn’t take long before we begin putting ourselves in the place of the unjustly punished prisoner. Faces and circumstance sneak in as we recall being the receiver of un ”justice”.

Pain.
Hurt.
Anger.
Bitterness.
Hatred.
Injustice.  

My child was supposed to live.
My loved one wasn’t supposed to suffer.
My spouse wasn’t supposed to cheat on me.
What was mine was stolen away.
I deserved better.
All the while, the stifling bond of Self Love constricts our heart ever-tighter.

Through the course of life events that surely felt random at the time, but were actually God-ordained, the runaway slave, Onesimus, crossed paths with prisoner Pastor Paul, who shared the good news of freedom in Jesus with Onesimus.

The man whose feet were shackled spoke of a freedom the runaway had no concept.
Paul’s physical freedom had been restricted, but his soul had long been released to roam the heart of God; it was this freedom he shared with Onesimus.

The runaway had his own view on freedom, or lack thereof.
Slaves held no rights, were viewed as property, and made no income. Onesimus longed for escape from injustice. Lusting for a freedom he could not buy, he ran from his chains, never realizing the heaviest bonds he bore were wrapped around his soul.

Until Paul, that is.
Paul, having experienced the internal wrestling and external rebellion of kicking against the God of Righteousness and Perfect Justice, shared of true freedom with Onesimus. (Acts 26:14)

All of your striving will not win your freedom, for you are enslaved not to a human taskmaster, but to the rule of Sin and Death. Your work makes no difference in tipping the scales. Whether you ran from your master or remained a dedicated slave until the day of your death, unless you turn from the sin of Self Love that strangulates your soul,
you will continue to feel its death grip for all eternity.

Paul had found another way, the only way, to slash the shackles of Sin and Self.
The doorway was direct access to God Himself, the God of Justice.

The access point?
A human body, holding perfect divinity within its skin,
unjustly slaughtered for the sins of the world,
and risen again to conquer Sin and Death.


The open door to intimacy with God was grace, grace, and grace. (Romans 5:1-2)

Jesus embodied injustice utterly undone as He took all punishment upon His innocent soul.

Herein, Paul found his delight, whether slave or free, living in plenty or in want, He discovered the purpose in his pain existed not in the circumstance,
but in the Christ who paid the debt to Justice.
A debt Paul owed.
Though he’d broken no law to gain his physical chains, he had broken the law of God countless times with his sin, incurring the rightly deserved wrath of God. (Romans 3:5-6)

White lies.
Lusting looks.
Complaining.
Gossip.
Bitterness.
Harsh words.
The Self Love Life.
These sins bring God’s righteous wrath upon us.


“For God’s wrath is revealed from heaven against all godlessness and unrighteousness of people who by their unrighteousness suppress the truth.” (Romans 1:18)

Do you see those chains, Sister? Do you feel them slice into your skin as you work to free yourself from their hold?

Our only freedom is found through the same doorway Paul walked and then proclaimed with urging passion. Christ. The Lord Jesus Christ. (John 10:9)

As it was true for Paul, Philemon, and Onesimus, forgiveness and true freedom are available to us. If we will come to Jesus, dropping our attempts at “good enough” and reviling the sins of Self Love, He will shatter our chains, removing our sin as far as the east is from the west. (Psalm 103:12-13)

“Jesus responded, “Truly I tell you, everyone who commits sin is a slave of sin. 
A slave does not remain in the household forever,
but a son does remain forever.
So if the Son sets you free,
you really will be free
.”

(John 8:34-36)

The chains on Paul’s body couldn’t touch his soul.
The freedom Onesimus thought he had without his chains was meaningless.
The freedom of Philemon’s heart allowed him to see his slave as now his brother
because Christ had truly set him free.

Tags :
Christ,free,slave,suffering
Share This :

Recent Journeys

The GT Weekend! ~ Another, Week 3
March 25, 2023
Another Day 15 Service With Love: Digging Deeper
March 24, 2023
Another Day 15 Service With Love
March 24, 2023

Philemon Day 10
Digging Deeper

Paul encountered Philemon in a completely different territory than he lived. Philemon heard the Gospel and then believed in Christ. Your influence matters. Who you encounter day to day matters. Where you plant seeds for Christ matters.

By holding steadfast in your personal walk with Jesus and how you carry yourself, yes even on bad days, are noticed by your neighbors, co-workers, family, and your fellow church goers. Your ripple effect really does have an impact. Even when the struggles of life weigh on you, be assured that your connections, conversations, and convictions plant seeds, just as Paul’s did for one runaway slave turned brother in Christ!
Dig Deeper!

Can We Pray With You?

Prayer is central to our ministry as believers in Jesus as we carry eachother’s burdens and intercede for one another. Our team is honored to share the work of praying alongside you!

  • prayer@gracefullytruthful.com
This Week's Lock Screen
Explore This Journey Theme!
Feb 13 - Mar 3, 2023 - Journey Theme #114

Join a GT POD!

Authentically living out a life of worship to the God who rescued us from darkness requires accountability and intentionality. Join a GT POD and take the next step in your faith journey!

  • gtpods@gracefullytruthful.com
Join the GT Facebook Community!
Free Registration!
Share Your Story!
Posted in: Broken, Enemies, Fear, Freedom, Suffering Tagged: Christ, free, slave, suffering

Surrender Day 2 Come & See: Digging Deeper

January 24, 2023 by Lois Robbins Leave a Comment

Surrender Day 2 Come & See: Digging Deeper

Lois Robbins

January 24, 2023

Alive,Future,Made New,Redemption

Discover the original intent of Scripture. Make good application to our everyday lives.
Become equipped to correctly handle the Word of Truth!

This DD Connects With "Come & See"
Why Dig Deeper?

Read His Words Before Ours!

Romans 8:29-30

29 For those He foreknew He also predestined to be conformed to the image of His Son, so that He would be the firstborn among many brothers and sisters. 30 And those He predestined, He also called; and those He called, He also justified; and those He justified, He also glorified.
Read More Of His Words

The Original Intent

1) What does it mean that God “foreknew”? (verse 29)

Consider the complete knowledge of God, not one thing is missing, obscure, or overlooked in His omniscience. From intricate atomic structure to the number of trees that would one day grow from a singular apple seed, the Lord God knows all things. Before the world was created, God foreknew those who would one day believe in Him for salvation of their souls and who would not. According to Scripture, even faith is God’s gift to us, for even this act we cannot muster up on our own power. “For you are saved by grace through faith, and this is not from yourselves; it is God’s gift.” (Ephesians 2:8)

Even the good works performed by believers are prepared beforehand by God. “For we are His workmanship created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared ahead of time for us to do.” (Ephesians 2:10)

Our faith comes from the Author, our rescue from sin comes from Him, the works He has crafted for us to do were designed by Him. In His perfect knowledge of all things, He foreknew all of these things, but more so, He appointed and structured them to result in praise of His glory and for our great rescue that we might be welcomed by the vast love of an all-powerful, all-knowing God.

The foreknowledge mentioned in verse 29 refers to “divine active delight”. It was from God’s sovereign good pleasure that He set His love upon those who would choose Him. We are both chosen, and we have the freedom to choose; a tension that will exist for our finite minds until we reach Eternity with Christ. To the prophet Jeremiah, the Lord said, “I chose you BEFORE I formed you in the womb; I set you apart before you were born.” (Jeremiah 1:5)

The Everyday Application

1) What does it mean that God “foreknew”? (verse 29)

Christians do not stumble into a saving relationship with God. We did not initiate our coming to Christ for rescue from death and forgiveness of our sin. Before we chose to act on the faith God provided as a gift, Christ loved us first and chose us in Christ first. The initiation and knowledge of us and our rescue have always begun in the heart of God. “We love because He first loved us.” (1 John 4:19) “You did not choose Me, but I chose you.” (John 15:16)

Paul means to comfort us in our waiting and suffering by reminding believers we have never been outside of God’s knowing. The God who foreknew us before we were born also perfectly knows every aspect of our current and future circumstances. In the verse prior, Paul described believers as people who are called according to God’s purpose. 

Our calling goes way back to “before”; God foreknew all those who are now, and will be, brothers and sisters in Christ. “He chose us in Him (Christ), before the foundation of the world, to be holy and blameless in love before Him.” (Ephesians 1:4) The bottom line of this verse is that we can stand secure in our eternal rescue from sin and its consequence of death. The God who foreknew our salvation will not randomly decide to abandon us.

The Original Intent

2) What does “predestined to be conformed” mean? (verse 29)

When Paul assures the Roman saints that God causes “all things to work together for the good of those who love God, who are called according to His purpose” (verse 28), it is tied with predestination as a reason why we have such assurance despite trials.

“Predestined to be conformed” is both a present, on-going reality and futuristic confidence. If true believers in Jesus look to the future when Christ returns, we understand Paul’s affirmation that God will give believers glorified bodies and perfect relationships with one another and God Himself. Sin will no longer mar any aspect of life! We will be wholly “conformed to the image of His Son” (verse 29) just as we were predestined to be.

As Christ-followers, foreknown and chosen to be His adopted children, His Spirit living in us creates a longing to become more like Jesus. As we surrender our will to His, He accomplishes this beautiful re-making in us. God is conforming us in our present lives and one day, He will finish the work. “I am sure of this, that He who started a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 1:6)

Our goal is “not just to enter heaven at last, BUT to be conformed to the image of God’s Son.” (Hendrikson) Paul speaks of this reality for every true Christian in Galatians 2:20, “I have been crucified with Christ, and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I now live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself for me.” The old way of living has died, and the new has come as the Spirit of God shapes us to become like Himself.

The Everyday Application

2) What does “predestined to be conformed” mean? (verse 29)

If you’ve trusted Christ for salvation and you’ve repented (turned away) from your sin and turned toward God, YOU can have complete confidence that your rescue from sin was foreknown by the God who made you His own. More so, you can confidently know you were predestined for the purpose of becoming like Jesus. If you’ve ever wondered what your purpose is, it’s here!

All who trust Jesus for rescue from the consequence of eternal death we rightly earned by our sin have always been predestined not only to salvation, but also to become like Jesus. Consider how the Christian life is not about whether you make it to heaven or hell, rather it’s about whether or not you love God and want to be like Him. Herein is a distinguishing mark of true Christ-followers! This is why we are called to go and make disciples, who really are students of Jesus who then live like Jesus in real, everyday life. (Matthew 28:19)

We are to follow and become like Jesus who is Himself like the Father. We willfully surrender whole-heartedly as God the Spirit leads us into unity with God and His holiness and into the will of God in our daily decisions and plans.

One day, when Christ, in Whom is found our real life, appears, then we also will appear with Him in glory in our fully new selves, perfectly conformed to Christ! (Colossians 3:4) This is the underlying purpose of God’s gracious predestination, the careful crafting of His beloved ones, bearing His image and reflecting the Creator’s glory both in everyday living now and in the life to come that will not end!

The Original Intent

3) How do “predestined, called, justified, and glorified” all fit together? (verse 30)

Four Mighty Words! If predestined stood by itself, one may conclude the only ingredient to our eternal salvation is an action by God whereby one is chosen for salvation. But the remainder of the verse indicates otherwise.

Our salvation is much more than a deliverance from sin and eternal death and requires our faith-response to His call. The background for each of these powerful words is adoption. (Romans 8:14-15) These words don’t belong in a contract drawn up between two parties where we swear allegiance and God trades us forgiveness. We are adopted sons and daughters through Jesus Christ, God the Son, who laid down His life that we might become co-heirs with Christ. (Romans 8:17) We are His own people, His priceless possession. (1 Peter 2:9)

Consider the loyal love of a Dad who fiercely vows to protect, love, and advocate for his child no matter the cost. Adoption fuels the Father Heart of God who lovingly predestined that all who respond to His call through faith will not only be justified through His own sacrifice and their sins eradicated but will also be guaranteed a future glorification in eternity.

In our everyday life as adopted children, we share in the sufferings of Christ (Philippians 3:10, Romans 8:17) Though painful, the Almighty God who wastes nothing uses even our suffering to gradually shape us into the likeness of Jesus Christ; this is the essence of sanctification. (2 Corinthians 3:18)

The final aspect is conformity of our physical bodies which will be realized at our eternal resurrection. (Philippians 3:21) Set against the beautiful background of adoption, God’s predestination to make us like His Son, His hearkening call, and His promises of justification and glorification are steps in realizing our divine purpose.  

The Everyday Application

3) How do “predestined, called, justified, and glorified” all fit together? (verse 30)

From the beginning, the Lord God decided to shape the lives of those who love Him to reflect the life of his Son. The Son stands first in the line of humanity as the “exact representation” (Hebrews 1:3) of what it looks like to perfectly reflect every aspect of God for “the entire fullness of God’s nature dwells bodily in Christ.” (Colossian 2:9)

We can see the original intended shape of our lives in Jesus. God predestined us to reflect Him then He marked us with love by calling us by name. As we respond to His call through faith, He sets us on an immovable foundation in clear relationship with Himself by personally paying the penalty we owe for our heavy offense of sin against Him.

He then covenants to remain with His own not only on earth by the power of His Spirit, but for all eternity, thereby gloriously completing the work only He could begin. The One who died for us and raised us to life by the power of His own death and resurrection, is now in the very presence of God advocating for us.

Do you think anyone or anything could drive a wedge between us and Christ’s love? IMPOSSIBLE! No trouble, no suffering, hatred, hunger or homelessness, bullying, backstabbing, not even the worst of sins is powerful enough to tear us away from His rescue. (Romans 8:38-39) His eternal Love for His foreknown, predestined, called, justified, and glorified children knows no limits. God had scheduled each of our entries into HIS family long before we were ever born.

As His chosen ones, He has personally arranged for our salvation and eternal life from beginning to never-ending. Knowing GOD IS IN CONTROL and is perfectly bent on loving us as His own provides us with great comfort. As we surrender our entire being to God, we wait with gleeful expectation to be with our Heavenly Father forever.

Tags :
Christ,conformed,follower,purpose,shaped
Share This :

Recent Journeys

The GT Weekend! ~ Another, Week 3
March 25, 2023
Another Day 15 Service With Love: Digging Deeper
March 24, 2023
Another Day 15 Service With Love
March 24, 2023

Surrender Day 1
Journey Study

Jesus’ followers needed to hunger for more than paltry fish and crumbs. He wanted them to hunger and thirst for Him. This invitation to abundance is for you as well, dear sister.

As when He called Andrew and Simon Peter, Philip and Nathanael, Jesus’ invitation to us includes an underlying caveat: total surrender.

The call to come and see doesn’t explain every detail, doesn’t assure safety, doesn’t put us in control of plans or the future.
Join The Journey!

Can We Pray With You?

Prayer is central to our ministry as believers in Jesus as we carry eachother’s burdens and intercede for one another. Our team is honored to share the work of praying alongside you!

  • prayer@gracefullytruthful.com
This Week's Lock Screen
Explore This Journey Theme!
Jan 23 - Feb 10, 2023 - Journey Theme #113

Join a GT POD!

Authentically living out a life of worship to the God who rescued us from darkness requires accountability and intentionality. Join a GT POD and take the next step in your faith journey!

  • gtpods@gracefullytruthful.com
Join the GT Facebook Community!
Free Registration!
Share Your Story!
Posted in: Alive, Future, Made New, Redemption Tagged: Christ, conformed, follower, purpose, shaped

Pause VI Day 13 Surprising Secret

January 18, 2023 by Melodye Reeves Leave a Comment

Pause VI Day 13 Surprising Secret

Melodye Reeves

January 18, 2023

Adoration,Gospel,Identity,Joy,Kingdom,Longing

Read His Words Before Ours!

Philippians 4:10-14

10 I rejoiced in the Lord greatly because once again you renewed your care for me. You were, in fact, concerned about me but lacked the opportunity to show it. 11 I don’t say this out of need, for I have learned to be content in whatever circumstances I find myself. 12 I know how to make do with little, and I know how to make do with a lot. In any and all circumstances I have learned the secret of being content—whether well fed or hungry, whether in abundance or in need. 13 I am able to do all things through him who strengthens me. 14 Still, you did well by partnering with me in my hardship.

Read More Of His Words

Heard any of these expressions?

I’ve got a secret.
This is our little secret.
Do you want to know a secret?
The secret leaked out.

Or now at my age, I’ve asked this one when I observe ageless beauty, graceful grandparenting, or meaningful marriages:
What’s your secret?

Paul had a secret.
But it was a different kind of secret. It was a “sacred secret” that wasn’t to be kept from public knowledge. It was his explanation regarding his previous instruction to the people in Philippi. He had stated and repeated:
Rejoice … always.

“In any and all circumstances I have learned the secret of being content.” (verse 12)

 Reflect for a moment on Paul’s location as he wrote this letter. From other verses in Philippians, we know he was in prison under house-arrest. Still, multiple times in his letter he has made a case for consistent, joyful living. Maybe he anticipated the Philippian believers feeling sorry or sad for him, and he wanted to assure them he had everything he needed. Because for Paul, knowing Christ was his single need.

Sisters, let’s take time to reflect on our own contentment. Do we miss much of the joy in our lives because we are wishing for something else we think someone else has? Maybe we have concluded that others have discovered the secret we’ve been trying to uncover. Is it possible we’ve lost sight of what we received when we gained Christ?

Paul had come to understand the essential, but often missing, element of knowing Christ. Though he had come to realize that the grace of Jesus equipped Him for every task (2 Corinthians 12:9), he had learned the secret sauce was the joy found in contentment. We can do it too, my friend! We can do all things through Jesus!

Today's Pause Challenge

1) Be a scribe and copy the precious words of Scripture down word for word. Make space in your journal to write down every word of Philippians 4:10-14 today. As you copy, lookup a cross reference or two as you come to them (they are the small letters next to certain words in your study Bible or online at www.biblia.com). As you write, consider the joy of Jesus! (Hebrews 12:2) He knew what was ahead of Him would be agonizing. He also knew the joy of obedience far outweighed the temporary suffering He would experience. Certainly, Paul considered Jesus as he meditated on the secret of his joy!

2) Choose one of these options to live boldly with authentic honesty in biblical community. As we grow deeper in God’s Word, the Lord designed us to share and grow with others walking alongside us.         

a) Take a photo of your journal time this week and share it, or share a quote from it.

b) Do a Facebook Live on the GT Community group and share how God has been working in you.   

c) Leave a comment here about it.

d) Share something God has been showing you in a comment at the GT Community Group 

e) Plan a coffee or lunch date with a friend and share what you’ve been learning and soaking in as you have hit Pause.

f) Write a note of encouragement to a sister who has been through the nitty-gritty of real life with you. Let her know how deeply she has impacted your walk with Christ.

g) For some of us, having a “2am friend” to build biblical community with is a new concept. If that’s you, this is an exciting, fresh place to be! Connect with our Facebook Community, send us an email, reach out to your local church body, seek out a small group and plug in! 

3) Continuing to work on memorizing Philippians 4:4-5

Tags :
Christ,gospel,need,source
Share This :

Recent Journeys

The GT Weekend! ~ Another, Week 3
March 25, 2023
Another Day 15 Service With Love: Digging Deeper
March 24, 2023
Another Day 15 Service With Love
March 24, 2023

Pause VI
Day 12

One day on a hillside near the Sea of Galilee, Jesus began teaching a group of people. What became known as The Beatitudes sums up Jesus’ teachings on earth. In essence, blessed are you if you need Me for you shall have Me. The reward and joy of the believer is Jesus! In the world as we know it, prosperity means bigger and better. It means accumulating more stuff.
Join The Journey!

Can We Pray With You?

Prayer is central to our ministry as believers in Jesus as we carry eachother’s burdens and intercede for one another. Our team is honored to share the work of praying alongside you!

  • prayer@gracefullytruthful.com
This Week's Lock Screen
Explore This Journey Theme!
Jan 2 - Jan 20, 2023 - Journey Theme #112

Join a GT POD!

Authentically living out a life of worship to the God who rescued us from darkness requires accountability and intentionality. Join a GT POD and take the next step in your faith journey!

  • gtpods@gracefullytruthful.com
Join the GT Facebook Community!
Free Registration!
Share Your Story!
Posted in: Adoration, Gospel, Identity, Joy, Kingdom, Longing Tagged: Christ, gospel, need, source

Pause VI Day 10 With Tears

January 13, 2023 by Melodye Reeves Leave a Comment

Pause VI Day 10 With Tears

Melodye Reeves

January 13, 2023

Pause,Service,Together,Unity

Read His Words Before Ours!

Philippians 3:7-21

7 But everything that was a gain to me, I have considered to be a loss because of Christ.
8 More than that, I also consider everything to be a loss in view of the surpassing value of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord. Because of him I have suffered the loss of all things and consider them as dung, so that I may gain Christ 9 and be found in him, not having a righteousness of my own from the law, but one that is through faith in Christ—the righteousness from God based on faith. 10 My goal is to know him and the power of his resurrection and the fellowship of his sufferings, being conformed to his death, 11 assuming that I will somehow reach the resurrection from among the dead.<br><br>

12 Not that I have already reached the goal or am already perfect, but I make every effort to take hold of it because I also have been taken hold of by Christ Jesus. 13 Brothers and sisters, I do not consider myself to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and reaching forward to what is ahead, 14 I pursue as my goal the prize promised by God’s heavenly call in Christ Jesus.
15 Therefore, let all of us who are mature think this way. And if you think differently about anything, God will reveal this also to you. 16 In any case, we should live up to whatever truth we have attained. 17 Join in imitating me, brothers and sisters, and pay careful attention to those who live according to the example you have in us. 18 For I have often told you, and now say again with tears, that many live as enemies of the cross of Christ. 19 Their end is destruction; their god is their stomach; their glory is in their shame; and they are focused on earthly things. 20 Our citizenship is in heaven, and we eagerly wait for a Savior from there, the Lord Jesus Christ. 21 He will transform the body of our humble condition into the likeness of his glorious body, by the power that enables him to subject everything to himself.

Read More Of His Words

Paul’s words to the Philippians are chosen with deliberation and intention. He says he is actively viewing everything that once seemed important to him before knowing Jesus through the lens of now having Christ. From that perspective, he now considers everything to be a loss in view of the surpassing value of knowing Christ.

Paul had suffered significant loss, but compared to knowing Jesus, it was nothing more than a bunch of manure or smelly garbage containing rotten food; it had no appeal! Paul had a new perspective about what was once so valuable to him. He had a new focus and future, to know Christ and be conformed to His death.

“My goal is to know Him and the power of His resurrection and the fellowship of His sufferings, being conformed to His death…” (Philippians 3:10)

Sister, the gospel (Jesus’ sacrificial death and literal resurrection) is not just one part of our lives. When we get to know Jesus, everything changes. The gospel applies to everything and every aspect of our lives. There really is no power of death to separate us from Love in Jesus when we know Christ and His power to kill our old sin nature along with its desires!

Twenty years before missionary John G. Paton went to the South Pacific Islands, a group of missionaries were killed by cannibals there. When Paton decided to go, a friend warned him of the danger likely awaiting him. Bluntly, Paton replied, “Sir, you are advanced in years now, and your own prospect is soon to be laid in the grave, there to be eaten by worms; I confess to you, that if I can but live and die serving and honoring the Lord Jesus, it will make no difference to me whether I am eaten by Cannibals or by worms.”

Paton had been drenched in the same grace of which Paul wrote. He understood what was and was not truly valuable. It brought him to tears as he prayed for the believers to know Jesus in the same way.

What’s the motivation for this kind of faith?
The power of the cross! (1 Corinthians 2:1-5)
What caused Paul to grieve?
The destruction and the destiny of the enemies of the cross. (Philippians 3:18-19)
Paul’s focus was no longer earthly but heavenly.

Sister, we have been given a promise. Like Paul, we look ahead toward our sure future.

“Our citizenship is in heaven, and we eagerly wait for a Savior from there, the Lord Jesus Christ. He will transform the body of our humble condition into the likeness of His glorious body, by the power that enables Him to subject everything to Himself.” (Philippians 3:20-21)

Today's Pause Challenge

1) Read Philippians 3:7-21 out loud today, twice. Slowly. Linger over those words that stick out to you, slowing and listening as God’s Spirit speaks to your heart! Write out verse 12 on a notecard and place it somewhere you won’t miss its message. If you are able, add it to the verses you’ve been memorizing this week. Rehearse verses 12-14 this weekend.
 
2) This weekend, put Pause VI Week Two playlist on repeat and be reminded of the rich truths God has shown you this week in Pause! Know that we prayed for you as we prepared this study!

3) Read Paul’s farewell to the Ephesian leaders in Acts 20:17-31 to fully grasp how much Paul loved the believers and wanted them to know Jesus!

4) Continue your memory work: Philippians 3:13-14

Tags :
Christ,Goals,honor,reward,serve
Share This :

Recent Journeys

The GT Weekend! ~ Another, Week 3
March 25, 2023
Another Day 15 Service With Love: Digging Deeper
March 24, 2023
Another Day 15 Service With Love
March 24, 2023

Pause VI
Day 9

Paul exhorts (biblically, that’s earnest advice) the reader to be aware of anyone who would lead them to add anything to their salvation. As if anyone could add anything! Paul certainly never preached grace for his own benefit! He was persecuted harshly precisely because he preached the truth that we can only be rescued from our death sentence earned by our sin if we solely trust in Christ alone through faith alone, without a drop of our own work. (Ephesians 2:8-9) He was demoted from respected teacher of the Law to imprisoned apostle. All for one reason: Jesus crucified! He had reminded them that everything else was useless for salvation. It was all Christ.
Join The Journey!

Can We Pray With You?

Prayer is central to our ministry as believers in Jesus as we carry eachother’s burdens and intercede for one another. Our team is honored to share the work of praying alongside you!

  • prayer@gracefullytruthful.com
This Week's Lock Screen
Explore This Journey Theme!
Jan 2 - Jan 20, 2023 - Journey Theme #112

Join a GT POD!

Authentically living out a life of worship to the God who rescued us from darkness requires accountability and intentionality. Join a GT POD and take the next step in your faith journey!

  • gtpods@gracefullytruthful.com
Join the GT Facebook Community!
Free Registration!
Share Your Story!
Posted in: Pause, Service, Together, Unity Tagged: Christ, Goals, honor, reward, serve

Pause VI Day 4 Gifted With Suffering

January 5, 2023 by Melodye Reeves Leave a Comment

Pause VI Day 4 Gifted With Suffering

Melodye Reeves

January 5, 2023

Faith,Relationship,Sacrifice,Transformation

Read His Words Before Ours!

Philippians 1:21-30

21 For me, to live is Christ and to die is gain. 22 Now if I live on in the flesh, this means fruitful work for me; and I don’t know which one I should choose. 23 I am torn between the two. I long to depart and be with Christ—which is far better— 24 but to remain in the flesh is more necessary for your sake. 25 Since I am persuaded of this, I know that I will remain and continue with all of you for your progress and joy in the faith, 26 so that, because of my coming to you again, your boasting in Christ Jesus may abound.

 

27 Just one thing: As citizens of heaven, live your life worthy of the gospel of Christ. Then, whether I come and see you or am absent, I will hear about you that you are standing firm in one spirit, in one accord, contending together for the faith of the gospel, 28 not being frightened in any way by your opponents. This is a sign of destruction for them, but of your salvation—and this is from God. 29 For it has been granted to you on Christ’s behalf not only to believe in him, but also to suffer for him, 30 since you are engaged in the same struggle that you saw I had and now hear that I have.

Read More Of His Words

“For me, to live is Christ and to die is gain.” (Philippians 1:21)

These words are the inspiration for many tattoos, plaques, journal covers, and bookmarks you might find in the life of a person of faith. But for Paul, this wasn’t simply a motto or mantra. It was a conviction; his filter and foundation for every word and action!

Living as Christ meant Paul preached the good news everywhere he went. His message was constant: Jesus Christ crucified. (1 Corinthians 2:1-5)

Living as Christ meant Paul imitated His example. Paul explained that if he was to inspire others, it was to be exclusively in the ways he himself was imitating Christ. (1 Corinthians 10:33-11:1)

Living as Christ meant Paul wanted to know Christ better than he knew anyone else. He wanted to comprehend the depths of Christ’s suffering (Philippians 3:10) and the length and width of Christ’s love (Ephesians 3:17-19).

Living as Christ meant Paul viewed everything else in light of Christ. Because of this, nothing could compare to knowing Christ. (Philippians 3:4-8)

Living as Christ meant Paul knew there was a greater blessing in store for those who sacrificed much and suffered well. He knew what Christ knew about eternal life and the life to come. (Mark 10:29-30)

Living as Christ meant Paul’s life was centered on Christ. Even when he recognized his own weakness and humanity, Paul turned to Christ’s perfection and salvation. (Romans 7:18-25)

Even in prison, Paul drank deeply from the well of Christ’s love. He did not view his suffering as a liability, Paul realized it was a gift of grace.
His suffering indicated he was becoming more and more like Christ.

“For it has been granted to you on Christ’s behalf not only to believe in Him, but also to suffer for Him, since you are engaged in the same struggle that you saw I had and now hear that I have.” (Philippians 1:29-30)

Just as the Philippians share grace with Paul, they also share in persecution.
Friend, we have been granted suffering as a part of joining Jesus in His journey to glory. Whether we live or die, we have reason to rejoice for Christ is our joy!

Today's Pause Challenge

1) Be a scribe and copy the precious words of Scripture down word for word. Make space in your journal to write down Philippians 1:29-30 after you read the full passage of today’s reading in Philippians 1:21-30. As you copy, lookup a cross reference or two as you come to them (they are the small letters next to certain words in your study Bible or online at www.biblia.com). As you write, think of the incredible gift it is to be invited into God’s presence through His word!

2) Choose one of these options to walk into more with Jesus as you make the intentional choice to grow with perseverance and determination!

 a) Write an encouraging note to someone you know is going through a season of suffering.

b) Consider simple ways you can demonstrate a life of holiness in the routine, lived intentionally for God’s glory.

c) Prayer walking is a simple way to begin shifting the eyes of your heart to truly see others. Walk around your neighborhood, some city streets, the aisles of your grocery store, or intentionally sit at a local coffee shop and pray, pray, pray. Pray for the people around you, pray for hearts to turn towards Jesus, pray for your own heart to be ready to share the full gospel if given the chance. Don’t worry about seeing results, that’s God’s job!            

d) Strike up a conversation with someone you know is going through the deep waters. Ask them questions about their season of life and their relationship with Jesus. Listen for cues of hurt and doubt and fear. Ask if you can pray with them right there.

3) Share the exciting, bold ways you are growing deep today with the rest of the GT Community! Our Facebook community page is always open! Or snap a photo and tag us on Instagram @gracefully_truthful

4) Memorize Philippians 1:20-21

Tags :
Christ,real life,sacrifice,surrender
Share This :

Recent Journeys

The GT Weekend! ~ Another, Week 3
March 25, 2023
Another Day 15 Service With Love: Digging Deeper
March 24, 2023
Another Day 15 Service With Love
March 24, 2023

Journey Into Pause VI!

Prayer and faith have always been connected. Faith expresses itself through prayer. Answered prayer is the key that unlocks a life of growing faith.

Paul has just finished wording his prayer for the believers in Philippi. It seems that praying for them stirred his faith to rejoice and remind them his “imprisonment is because I am in Christ.” He didn’t want them to be sad for him but wanted them to know the gospel was spreading because of his chains.
Join The Journey!

Can We Pray With You?

Prayer is central to our ministry as believers in Jesus as we carry eachother’s burdens and intercede for one another. Our team is honored to share the work of praying alongside you!

  • prayer@gracefullytruthful.com
This Week's Lock Screen
Explore This Journey Theme!
Jan 2 - Jan 20, 2023 - Journey Theme #112

Join a GT POD!

Authentically living out a life of worship to the God who rescued us from darkness requires accountability and intentionality. Join a GT POD and take the next step in your faith journey!

  • gtpods@gracefullytruthful.com
Join the GT Facebook Community!
Free Registration!
Share Your Story!
Posted in: Faith, Relationship, Sacrifice, Transformation Tagged: Christ, real life, sacrifice, surrender
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 Next »

Gracefully Truthful Ministries

© 2022 Gracefully Truthful Ministries, All Rights Reserved, 501(c)3 certified

And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we have seen His glory, glory as of the only Son from the Father, full of grace and truth. John 1:14