Tag: Hebrews 13:5

When Success Isn’t Enough: Finding the Way, the Truth, and the Life

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When Everything Looked Right—but Something Was Missing

When I was only twenty-three years old, my life changed forever.

I was serving on active duty as a second lieutenant in the United States Army and the Battalion Maintenance Officer, a job normally held by a senior captain. By almost every outward measure, life was good.

I had a beautiful and intelligent wife. Our first child had been born in January of that year. Professionally, things were going extremely well. My maintenance program had received a commendable rating during the annual general inspection, and because of that achievement, I was named an Outstanding Junior Officer in my Army division.

I was ambitious, detail-oriented, competitive, and something of a perfectionist. I worked hard. I wanted to excel. I wanted to do things right.

And yet, underneath all the accomplishments, I knew something was wrong.

There was an emptiness I could not explain.

Beginning during my university years, I had tried many of the things our culture says will bring happiness. I tried drinking, partying, relationships, material possessions, social connections, and surrounding myself with the “right” people.

Some of those things provided temporary enjoyment, but none of them filled the emptiness inside me.

Something was missing.

I just didn’t know what it was.

Discovering That Achievement Cannot Save Us

At the time, I was attending church. There I noticed a group of young men about my age who seemed to possess something I did not have.

There was a peace about them.

They had a sense of direction and purpose that intrigued me. Eventually, I began attending a Bible study with them.

That Bible study helped change the direction of my life.

I began to understand that the Bible was more than an ancient religious book. It was God’s Word—a guide for life that addressed the questions, struggles, failures, hopes, and emptiness of the human heart.

I discovered that I was not here by accident.

God had created me for a purpose.

More importantly, I learned that Jesus Christ loved me and desired a personal relationship with me.

But there was a problem.

Sin separated me from God.

1. I Realized I Had a Sin Problem

The Bible says:

“For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God.”

Romans 3:23

That word all included me.

I had spent much of my young life trying to be successful, disciplined, responsible, and good. But Christianity is not based on whether we are better than somebody else.

It is based on God’s perfect standard.

And no one reaches that standard.

Not even a perfectionist.

I could not save myself simply by trying harder or living what I considered to be a good life.

2. I Learned There Was a Penalty for Sin

Scripture says:

“For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.”

Romans 6:23

Sin has consequences.

But notice the second half of that verse.

God offers a gift.

Salvation is not something we purchase, achieve, deserve, or earn. It is something God freely offers through Jesus Christ.

3. I Discovered God’s Incredible Promise

Perhaps no verse summarizes God’s love more clearly than John 3:16:

“For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son,

that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.”

 John 3:16

God did not look at humanity’s brokenness and turn away.

He came toward us.

He loved us enough to send His Son.

And that included me.

It includes you too.

4. I Learned God Had Already Made Provision

The Bible explains how we respond to God’s gift:

“That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus,

and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved.”

Romans 10:9

The answer was not another achievement.

It wasn’t another promotion.

It wasn’t becoming more religious.

It wasn’t trying harder to become a better person.

It was trusting Jesus Christ.

The Prayer That Changed the Direction of My Life

I reached the place where I understood that I needed Christ.

I prayed a prayer much like this:

“Jesus, I know that I am a sinner. I believe that You died for my sins and rose from the grave so that I might have eternal life with You. I repent of my sins and ask You to come into my heart and life. Take control of my words, thoughts, and actions. I place my trust in You for my salvation. I accept You as my Lord and Savior and receive Your free gift of eternal life. Amen.”

There was nothing magical about the wording of the prayer.

The important thing was the decision of my heart.

I placed my faith in Jesus Christ.

And the direction of my life changed.

What Happened After I Became a Christian?

My life did not suddenly become perfect.

Far from it.

Over the years I have made mistakes. I have made poor decisions. I have failed at times—occasionally miserably.

Becoming a Christian did not make me perfect.

It gave me a Savior.

It gave me direction.

It gave me a foundation.

It gave me Someone to turn to when life became difficult.

The Bible became a source of principles for daily living. Prayer became more than a religious exercise. Faith became something I could carry into marriage, family, career decisions, disappointments, grief, uncertainty, illness, and all the unexpected turns of life.

Most importantly, I learned that I am never truly alone.

The peace I had tried to find through achievement, recognition, relationships, possessions, and experiences could finally be found where it had been all along—in a relationship with Jesus Christ.

Can an Intelligent Person Believe in Christianity?

Sometimes people ask whether an educated, thoughtful, intellectual, or scientifically minded person can believe in God.

Of course they can.

History is filled with scholars, scientists, philosophers, writers, physicians, professors, military leaders, and intellectuals who have believed in God.

Perhaps the more useful question is not, “Can an intelligent person believe?”

Instead, we might ask:

Why have so many intelligent people chosen to believe?

Christian faith does not require us to stop thinking.

God gave us minds and expects us to use them.

Christianity makes extraordinary claims about God, humanity, morality, history, forgiveness, eternity, and the person of Jesus Christ. Those claims deserve thoughtful examination.

Faith and reason need not be enemies.

For me, the journey began by examining what the Bible said about who I was, who God is, and what Jesus Christ had done for me.

Eventually, the question became very personal:

What am I going to do with Jesus?

Jesus Is Still the Answer

Today’s world offers more information than any generation in human history, yet people remain confused about some of life’s most basic questions.

Who am I?

Why am I here?

What gives life meaning?

What happens when I die?

Is there absolute truth?

Can I really know God?

Jesus answered these questions with one of the most remarkable statements in Scripture:

“Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me.”

John 14:6 KJV

Notice that Jesus did not merely say He knew the way.

He said:

“I am the way.”

He did not merely claim to teach truth.

He said:

“I am the truth.”

And He did not merely offer advice about how to live.

He said:

“I am the life.”

The Way When You Feel Lost

Life can take unexpected turns.

Careers change.

Relationships change.

Health changes.

People we love leave us.

Plans fail.

Dreams sometimes disappear.

There will be moments when the carefully drawn map of your life no longer seems to make sense.

Jesus says:

I am the way.

You may not know what tomorrow holds, but you can know the One who walks with you into tomorrow.

The Truth When the World Is Confusing

We live in a culture filled with competing voices.

Everyone seems to have an opinion about truth, morality, happiness, success, identity, and purpose.

Opinions change.

Cultural standards change.

Popular ideas come and go.

But God’s Word remains.

Jesus says:

I am the truth.

When doubts surround you, return to His Word.

When the voices of the world become confusing, listen again to the voice of Christ.

His truth becomes an anchor for the mind and heart.

The Life When Your Heart Feels Empty

At twenty-three, I had many of the things I thought should make a person happy.

Yet something was missing.

Success could not fill the emptiness.

Recognition could not fill it.

Relationships could not completely fill it.

Possessions could not fill it.

Experiences could not fill it.

Jesus could.

He still can.

Jesus says:

I am the life.

The deepest hunger of the human soul is not ultimately satisfied by what we accomplish, accumulate, possess, or experience.

We were created to know God.

You Do Not Have to Earn Your Way to God

Maybe you have spent much of your life trying to be good enough.

Successful enough.

Religious enough.

Generous enough.

Respectable enough.

Accomplished enough.

But salvation is not a medal awarded for achievement.

It is a gift received by faith.

Jesus already opened the door.

Scripture says:

“For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved.”
Romans 10:13

That word whosoever includes you.

Three Things to Remember Today

1. Success cannot satisfy the deepest need of the soul.
Accomplishments are wonderful, but they were never designed to replace a relationship with God.

2. You do not have to become perfect before coming to Jesus.
You come to Christ because you are not perfect. Salvation is God’s gift of grace, not a reward for flawless living.

3. Jesus offers direction, truth, purpose, and eternal life.
When the world leaves you uncertain about which road to follow, remember His words: “I am the way, the truth, and the life.”

How About You?

Have you ever personally placed your faith in Jesus Christ?

Not simply attended church.

Not merely believed that God exists.

Not merely tried to live a good life.

Have you trusted Christ as your Savior?

That was the decision I faced as a young Army officer many years ago.

Everything on the outside looked successful.

But God knew what was missing on the inside.

Maybe today He is speaking to you about the same thing.

You can come to Him exactly where you are.

A Prayer of Faith

Lord Jesus, I know that I have sinned and cannot save myself. I believe You died for my sins and rose again. I turn from trusting in myself and place my faith in You. Forgive me, guide me, and become the Lord of my life. Thank You for being the Way when I am lost, the Truth when I am confused, and the Life my soul needs. Help me walk with You each day and trust You with both this life and eternity.

Amen.

Today’s Thought

You may spend years searching for purpose through achievement, possessions, relationships, education, status, or success only to discover that the deepest need of the human heart cannot be filled by something.

It can only be filled by Someone.

His name is Jesus.

“And ye shall seek me, and find me, when ye shall search for me with all your heart.”

Jeremiah 29:13 KJV

Written by Jimmie Aaron Kepler, Ed.D. Shared under a Creative Commons Attribution (CC BY) license. You are welcome to share or adapt it provided proper credit is given to the author. 

The Last Cup

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There is a particular kind of silence that hangs over an office break room around two in the afternoon. Everybody’s running on the fumes of lunch, and the coffee pot sits there like a small, sacred machine holding the rest of the day together.

My Story

I have stood in front of that pot more times than I can count, staring down into it, watching that last half inch of coffee swirl like it’s got something to say. Just enough for one more cup. Just enough for me. And if I pour it, that’s it. Pot’s empty. Filter’s cold and used up in the trash. I walk back to my desk three minutes richer and never think about it again.

Or I don’t.

There’s another way to stand in that room. You look at that half cup and you think about whoever’s coming in behind you, some tired soul who’s had a morning worse than yours, who was counting on that same pot the same way you were. And something in you says, leave it. Pour a new one. Wipe the counter down while it drips, and walk away without telling a soul you did it.

Nobody hands out medals for a fresh pot of coffee. Nobody’s writing your name on a plaque in the break room. That’s exactly the point. It’s a small enough thing that it costs you something real, your own three minutes, your own small comfort, and it’s also small enough that you could walk right past the moment and never notice you’d failed it.

I think that’s where most of us live, somewhere between the two responses, not cruel, just hurried. Just looking out for our own cup first, the way most everybody does, the way the world kind of trains you to. Nothing evil in it. Just narrow. Just small.

Scripture

“Let nothing be done through strife or vainglory; but in lowliness of mind let each esteem other better than themselves.” Philippians 2:3 (KJV)

Paul didn’t write to the Philippians about coffee pots, of course. He wrote about a Savior who had every right in heaven to keep what was His, and instead poured Himself out to the very last drop for people who never asked Him to. He didn’t hold His hands over His own portion. He walked into the empty room of our need and filled it, and then He wiped the counter down and told nobody to make a fuss over it.

That’s the strange math of grace. It doesn’t announce itself. It shows up in the little decisions nobody’s grading you on, the ones only you and God will ever know about. A fresh pot of coffee. A kind word held back when a sharp one would’ve felt better. A little patience spent on someone who wasn’t even watching.

Most days I fail that test in ways too small to notice and never atone for. But every now and then, standing in front of that half-empty pot, something quiet in me remembers who filled the pot for me first. And I brew a new one.

Prayer

Lord, soften the hurried places in me today. Let me see past my own cup to the ones who are coming in behind me, tired and thirsty in ways I may never know. Give me a heart low enough to notice small chances at grace, and the humility to take them without needing anyone to see. Amen.

Written by Jimmie Aaron Kepler, Ed.D. Shared under a Creative Commons Attribution (CC BY) license. You are welcome to share or adapt it provided proper credit is given to the author.

The Better Choice

Posted in @jimmiekepler, Ancient Wisdom for Today, Bible, Blog, Christian Living, Christian Writers, Jim Kepler, Jimmie A. Kepler, Jimmie Aaron Kepler, Jimmie Kepler, jimmiekepler.com, Poet, Poet's Life, Poets, Writer's Life, WritingLeave a comment

The Better Choice

Rachel had the whole weekend mapped out before her old college friends even packed their bags. Linens washed, flowers cut, a dinner planned down to the last dish. She wanted it perfect, the way she wanted most things.

Her sister Amanda showed up to help and got handed a list before she’d shed her coat.

Then the women arrived, tired from the road and loud with laughter, and something in the living room shifted. Nicole told stories nobody remembered right. Jennifer pulled up old photographs. Melissa talked about aging parents and marriages that had worn thin in places and dreams that hadn’t died, just gone quiet. Marie shared how her husband had left her for a younger woman.

Amanda set her phone face down on the table and stayed.

Rachel ran the kitchen alone. Sauce boiling over, a missing ingredient, her phone buzzing like a hive. She could hear the laughter over the kitchen island. She could see her sister sitting easy among the guests, and something hard and tired rose up in her.

She came out in her apron, spoon in hand, and said what tired people say.

The room went quiet. Nicole touched Amanda’s arm and told Rachel gently that nobody came for a perfect table. Jennifer offered to order pizza. Melissa already had the schedule on her phone. Marie smiled.

Rachel looked at the room. The meal unfinished, the list still long, and four women she’d loved for twenty years sitting right there, telling the truth to each other.

She took off the apron. Silenced the phone. Sat down beside her sister.

Dinner came late and simple. Nobody minded.

Scripture

“But one thing is needful: and Mary hath chosen that good part, which shall not be taken away from her.” Luke 10:42, KJV from the story of Mary and Martha found in the Bible, the gospel of Luke (Luke 10:38–42), where Jesus visits the home of two sisters in a village.

Reflection

Rachel wasn’t doing anything wrong. Martha wasn’t either. Jesus never scolded her for the work. He named what the work had cost her: she’d grown worried, distracted, resentful. The serving had eaten the peace right out of her.

That’s the trouble with good things. They don’t announce themselves as thieves. They just quietly take the seat meant for something better.

Mary chose to sit down and listen. That choice still costs something now. A phone left face down. A few dishes left in the sink. The nerve to believe the world won’t end if the list stays unfinished a while longer.

There’s always another task waiting like a dog at the door. But some moments only pass through once. A friend across the table. An evening with family. A quiet minute with God. The better choice isn’t doing more. It’s stopping long enough to notice who’s already in the room.

Prayer

Heavenly Father,
My days fill up fast with tasks and noise, and even my good work can turn to worry in my hands. Teach me to set it down when it’s time. Let me be as present with You and with those I love as I am busy for them. Give me the sense to choose peace over perfection, and never let my serving crowd out the sitting still. 

In Jesus’ name, 
Amen.

When Money Promises More Than It Can Give

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The Life Jessica Thought She Wanted

I have known Jessica since she was a girl of four, barefoot in her mama’s yard, telling anybody who’d listen about the house she was going to have one day. Biggest one on the block, she said. A pool shaped like the state of Texas and a car with a name too fancy for a child to pronounce right. Most kids dream in crayon. Jessica dreamed in blueprints.

She grew up and went and got it too. The right school, the right sorority, a young lawyer for a husband who’d passed the bar the same summer she did her hair different for the wedding photos. But when he took a job defending folks who couldn’t pay him, she looked at him different. Called it a lack of ambition. Filed the papers before the ink dried on their first anniversary card.

Two years later she married a cardiologist, a good man raising two kids from a marriage that hadn’t worked out either. “He can provide,” she told her sister, like she was reading off a spec sheet. “I like him fine. Reckon I’ll grow to love him over time.”

For a stretch of years it looked like she’d won. The mansion sat up on the hill like a promise kept. The car in the driveway caught the morning sun just right. She had a membership card that opened doors most people never even see.

Then somewhere past forty, the process server showed up at that big front door with papers in his hand. Her husband had found somebody younger, thirty years old, and decided the vows were negotiable after all.

The mansion went the way mansions go when the marriage does. Jessica found herself in a little apartment, dusting off a resume ten years old, doing arithmetic on the kitchen table late at night. Car lease. Rent. Club dues she was too proud to cancel. A trip to the resort at St. John in the US Virgin Islands already paid for that she couldn’t back out of without everybody asking why.

Everything she’d built her peace on turned out to be sand the whole time. She just hadn’t waded out far enough yet to feel it move.

Scripture for Today

“Let your conversation be without covetousness; and be content with such things as ye have: for he hath said, I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee.” – Hebrews 13:5 (KJV)

The Trap of Trusting in Wealth

Now I want to be careful here, because money itself never asked to be the villain. It puts groceries on the table and a roof over a family and it can do a world of good in a hurting world if you let it. The trouble starts when money quits being a tool and starts being an identity. When it’s not just what’s in your pocket anymore but what you think you’re worth.

That kind of hunger never eats a full meal. There’s always a bigger house down the road, a S-class to replace your E-class Mercedes in somebody else’s driveway, a neighborhood with a nicer yard art. You can chase that horizon your whole life and die still running toward it.

And here’s the cruel joke of it. The very things we buy for comfort end up costing us our rest. We lie awake guarding what we own instead of enjoying what we’ve been given. What was supposed to set us free starts locking the doors from the inside.

Money can buy a lot of comfort. It has never once bought permanence. It cannot promise a marriage will hold, or a heart will heal, or a person will stay through the hard seasons. Only one voice in this world has ever made that promise and kept it.

The Wealth That Cannot Be Taken Away

Hebrews doesn’t just tell us to quit coveting like that’s some kind of discipline we can white-knuckle our way through. It hands us the reason underneath it. God said, “I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee.” That’s not a suggestion for better living. That’s bedrock.

Being content doesn’t mean you stop working or stop dreaming or stop trying to do better for your family. It means your joy quits living and dying by what’s sitting in your driveway or your bank account.

A small apartment with peace in it beats a mansion with dread creeping through every hallway. A modest car driven without fear of losing it beats a luxury one that’s really just a nice cage.

Real wealth is knowing Somebody stays when everything else packs up and leaves. Jobs end. People we love disappoint us, sometimes on purpose. Money comes in like the tide and goes right back out again just as fast. Possessions wear thin, the money for international dream vacations runs out, and the invitations stop coming eventually, every single time.

But God stays. That part never changes.

Peace shows up the day we stop asking dollars to do a job only the Lord was ever built to do. When we trust Him instead, we find out what freedom actually tastes like. Contentment that isn’t for sale, and can’t be repossessed either.

Three Takeaways

  1. Ask yourself honestly what your peace is really standing on. Is it God, or is it your paycheck, your title, your address?
  2. Practice thanks today, right where you are. Don’t wait for the next thing to arrive before you’re grateful for what’s already in your hands.
  3. Remember what can’t be taken. Houses burn, cars wreck, and marriages sometimes end even when we did our best. God’s presence and His promises are the one inheritance nobody can repossess.

Prayer

Father,
Forgive me for the times I put my trust in money and things instead of You. Teach me gratitude for what I already hold in my hands. Remind me, on the hard nights especially, that You promised never to leave me nor forsake me, and that Your word has never once come back void.
Amen.

 

A Good Name Over Riches

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Choosing a Good Name Over Riches

“A good name is rather to be chosen than great riches, and loving favour rather than silver and gold.” – Proverbs 22:1

In a world driven by ambition, wealth, and status, the wisdom of Proverbs challenges us to consider what truly matters. The scripture emphasizes the lasting value of character and reputation above fleeting wealth.

A good name, rooted in integrity, respect, and kindness, enriches life far beyond material gain. The choices we make daily mold our reputation and ultimately shape our legacy.

1. The Value of Integrity

Explanation:

Integrity involves consistently living by moral and ethical principles, even when it is challenging or unseen by others. It forms the cornerstone of a trustworthy reputation.

Integrity requires courage and perseverance, often demanding sacrifices and unwavering commitment to honesty.

Illustration:

Consider the story of Abraham Lincoln, affectionately remembered as “Honest Abe.” His commitment to truth and fairness, despite immense political and social pressures, left a legacy that endures far beyond wealth or position.

His reputation for integrity profoundly impacted the course of history and continues to inspire leaders worldwide.

Application:

Evaluate your daily decisions through the lens of integrity. Ask yourself regularly, “Am I being truthful, fair, and consistent in my actions?”

Be willing to make tough decisions and speak the truth even when it is uncomfortable or unpopular.

2. The Importance of Respect

Explanation:

Respect is earned by treating others with dignity and consideration, regardless of their status or position. A respectful attitude fosters meaningful relationships and a favorable reputation.

Respect also demonstrates humility and recognizes the inherent worth and contributions of others.

Illustration:

Mother Teresa’s life was marked not by material wealth but by deep respect for humanity. Her genuine compassion and regard for every individual inspired global admiration and goodwill.

Her actions remind us that respect transcends boundaries of culture, class, and nationality, building bridges and creating peace.

Application:

Practice respect in interactions with all people, not just those from whom you might gain something. Cultivate empathy and kindness intentionally in your everyday encounters.

Listen actively to others, acknowledge their opinions, and show genuine appreciation for their perspectives and efforts.

3. The Power of Kindness

Explanation:

Kindness involves generosity, compassion, and genuine concern for others’ well-being. It is a vital element in creating supportive communities and enriching personal connections.

Kindness influences not only individual relationships but has a ripple effect, spreading positivity throughout society.

Illustration:

Fred Rogers, beloved for his television program, consistently demonstrated that kindness is a strength, not a weakness.

His genuine care for children’s emotional wellbeing left a profound legacy, emphasizing the lasting influence kindness has beyond superficial success or popularity.

Application:

Commit to acts of kindness without expectation of reward or recognition. Small gestures, like helping a neighbor, offering encouragement, or simply giving a compliment, significantly impact your reputation and others’ lives.

Develop a habit of noticing opportunities to serve, support, and uplift others.

Conclusion

Choosing to cultivate a good name—built on integrity, respect, and kindness—is a lifelong journey that yields deep and lasting fulfillment. Unlike temporary material wealth, a good name continues to enrich our lives and the lives of others long after we are gone.

Let your daily choices reflect these values, building a reputation that truly defines who you are.

Takeaways

  1. Embrace integrity by consistently aligning your actions with your values.
  2. Cultivate deep respect in all your relationships to build lasting trust and harmony.
  3. Incorporate kindness as a fundamental practice in your interactions, making it a daily habit.
  4. Recognize that your reputation is shaped by your actions, not just your intentions.
  5. Prioritize character and loving favor over wealth to leave a meaningful and lasting legacy.

Your Body, His Temple: 3 Ways to Honor God with Your Life

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Your Body, His Temple: 3 Ways to Honor God with Your Life

Introduction:

In today’s culture, we often hear phrases like “It’s my body, my choice” or “Do what makes you happy.” While personal freedom is important, the Bible teaches us a profound truth—our bodies are not our own.

1 Corinthians 6:19 (KJV) says:

“What? know ye not that your body is the temple of the Holy Ghost which is in you, which ye have of God, and ye are not your own?”

This verse reminds us that our bodies are more than just flesh and bone—they are the dwelling place of the Holy Spirit. If we truly believe that God’s presence lives within us, we must consider how we treat our bodies physically, mentally, and spiritually.

How we care for our health, guard our minds, and live our daily lives should reflect our reverence for God. Let’s explore three ways we can honor God by treating our bodies as His temple.

1. Care for Your Physical Health

Explanation:

God designed our bodies with purpose, and how we care for them matters. We often neglect our health by making poor choices—whether it’s unhealthy eating, lack of exercise, or failing to get enough rest.

Many people assume that spiritual health is separate from physical health, but the two are deeply connected. If we mistreat our bodies, we limit our ability to serve God effectively.

When we are tired, sick, or unhealthy, it becomes much harder to fulfill our God-given calling. Taking care of our physical health is an act of worship because we are honoring the temple God has entrusted to us.

Illustration:

Imagine walking into a beautiful church, but instead of seeing a clean, well-maintained sanctuary, you find broken windows, dusty pews, and trash scattered everywhere. Would this space feel like a holy place dedicated to God? Probably not.

Just as we expect a place of worship to be clean and well-kept, God desires the same for our bodies.

If we fill ourselves with unhealthy food, ignore exercise, and fail to get enough sleep, we are treating His temple with disregard.

Application:

Start making intentional choices today to care for your body. Instead of eating fast food every day, choose nourishing meals that provide energy and strength.

Schedule time for physical activity, whether it’s walking, stretching, or exercising regularly.

Prioritize sleep and rest so that your body can recover and function as it should.

By taking these small steps, you honor God by maintaining the temple He has given you.

2. Guard Your Mind and Heart

Explanation:

What we consume mentally and emotionally has a significant impact on our lives.

The Bible tells us in Proverbs 4:23,

“Keep thy heart with all diligence; for out of it are the issues of life.”

This means that whatever we allow into our minds will eventually shape our actions, attitudes, and spiritual well-being.

If we constantly feed our minds with negativity, harmful entertainment, or toxic influences, we are polluting the temple of the Holy Spirit.

On the other hand, when we fill our hearts with God’s truth, wisdom, and love, we create an environment where the Spirit can work freely.

Illustration:

Think of your mind as a garden. If you plant seeds of faith, positivity, and wisdom, you will reap a harvest of peace, joy, and spiritual growth.

But if you allow weeds—negative influences, gossip, impure thoughts—to take root, they will choke out the good and overtake your spiritual life.

Just as a gardener must be intentional about what they plant and what they remove, we must be careful about what we allow into our minds and hearts.

Application:

Evaluate what you are watching, reading, and listening to.

Ask yourself: Does this bring me closer to God or pull me away?

Replace negative influences with Scripture, worship music, uplifting conversations, and positive content.

Set boundaries with social media and entertainment to avoid distractions that harm your spiritual well-being.

Guarding your heart isn’t about avoiding the world, but about making sure that what enters your life aligns with God’s truth.

3. Live with Spiritual Purpose

Explanation:

If we truly believe that our bodies are the temple of the Holy Spirit, then our actions should reflect that reality. Many people go through life without direction, chasing temporary pleasures without considering God’s purpose for them.

However, as believers, we are called to live differently. We are to represent Christ in how we speak, act, and interact with others.

Every decision we make—how we treat others, how we use our time, how we serve—should be made with the understanding that God dwells within us.

Illustration:

Think of Olympic athletes. They don’t just wake up one day and decide to compete. They dedicate their lives to training, discipline, and purpose. Their choices—what they eat, how they train, how they rest—are all made with their ultimate goal in mind.

In the same way, as followers of Christ, we must be intentional in how we live. We cannot expect to grow spiritually if we do not prioritize our relationship with God.

Application:

Make a commitment today to live with purpose. Start each day with prayer and seek God’s guidance in your decisions.

Use your time wisely—serve in your church, help those in need, and share the love of Christ with those around you.

Be mindful of your words and actions, ensuring they align with God’s will.

When you live with spiritual purpose, you become a light to those around you, reflecting the glory of the Holy Spirit who dwells within you.

Conclusion:

Your body is not just a physical shell—it is the temple of the Holy Spirit. When we recognize this truth, it changes the way we treat ourselves physically, mentally, and spiritually.

Caring for our health, guarding our minds, and living with purpose are not just good habits; they are acts of worship and obedience to God.

We live in a world that encourages self-indulgence, but as believers, we are called to a higher standard. We are stewards of the bodies God has given us, and it is our responsibility to treat them with respect and honor.

When we do, we reflect His glory and allow His presence to shine through us.

Takeaways:

  • Your body is a sacred temple—treat it with the same reverence you would a place of worship.
  • What you consume mentally and emotionally impacts your spiritual health—choose wisely.
  • Honoring God with your body is an act of worship, not just self-care.
  • Living with purpose means making daily choices that align with God’s will.
  • You are not your own—you belong to God, and that truth should guide your life.

How will you honor God with your body today? Let’s encourage each other in the comments! ⬇️

The Blessing of Work: A Biblical Perspective

Posted in @jimmiekepler, Bible, Bible Memes, Blog, Caregiver, Caregiving, Christian Living, Christian Writers, Jim Kepler, Jimmie A. Kepler, Jimmie Aaron Kepler, Jimmie Kepler, jimmiekepler.com, Poet, Poet's Life, Poets, US Military History, Writer's Life, Writing1 Comment

The Blessing of Work: A Biblical Perspective

Introduction

Work is often seen as a necessity—something we do to earn a living and provide for our families. But from a biblical perspective, work is much more than that.

The Apostle Paul reminds us in 2 Thessalonians 3:10-11 (KJV):

“If any would not work, neither should he eat…”

Work is not merely about survival; it is a calling from God, a means of serving Him and others. When we embrace work with the right mindset, it becomes a source of joy, purpose, and spiritual growth.
Let’s explore three biblical principles about work that can transform our perspective.

1. Work as Unto the Lord (Colossians 3:23)

Explanation

Colossians 3:23 instructs us,
“And whatsoever ye do, do it heartily, as to the Lord, and not unto men.”
This verse teaches us that our work should not be driven by human recognition but by a desire to glorify God. Whether in a corporate office, a classroom, or at home, every task we undertake is an opportunity to honor God.

Illustration

Think about a craftsman who carefully builds furniture, ensuring every detail is perfect. Even if no one sees the hidden joints or the extra sanding, he takes pride in his work because he knows it reflects his commitment to excellence.
Similarly, when we work as unto the Lord, we strive for integrity and diligence, regardless of human applause.

Application

Shift your mindset from working for a paycheck to working for God’s glory. Approach daily tasks with a spirit of excellence and gratitude, remembering that even the most mundane jobs can be acts of worship when done with the right heart.

2. Stay Focused and Avoid Idleness (Proverbs 19:15)

Explanation

Idleness can lead to spiritual and emotional decline.
Proverbs 19:15 warns,
“Slothfulness casteth into a deep sleep; and an idle soul shall suffer hunger.” When we lack purpose, distractions and negativity creep in, leading to unproductivity and dissatisfaction.

Illustration

Consider King David’s downfall in 2 Samuel 11. While his army was at war, David stayed back in Jerusalem. His idleness led to temptation and sin, resulting in dire consequences.
This example reminds us that when we neglect our responsibilities, we become vulnerable to distractions that can lead us away from God’s will.

Application

Establish a routine that keeps you engaged in meaningful work.
Whether through professional responsibilities, volunteering, or creative endeavors, staying active prevents spiritual stagnation and keeps you aligned with God’s purpose.

3. Use Your Gifts to Serve Others (1 Peter 4:10)

Explanation

God has given each of us unique talents and skills, not just for personal gain, but to serve others.
1 Peter 4:10 states,
“As every man hath received the gift, even so minister the same one to another, as good stewards of the manifold grace of God.”

Illustration

Imagine a teacher who not only instructs students in academics but also encourages them with wisdom and kindness. Her work extends beyond the classroom, shaping young lives in ways she may never fully see.
Similarly, our work—whether big or small—can impact others when we use our gifts for service.

Application

Identify ways you can use your skills to bless others. If you’re a writer, share encouraging words. If you’re in business, practice ethical leadership.
When you view your work as a means of serving, you align with God’s greater plan.

Conclusion

Work is more than a means of income—it is an opportunity to fulfill God’s purpose in our lives.
When we work with diligence, focus, and a heart for service, we honor God and enrich the lives of those around us.
Embracing a biblical perspective on work transforms it from a burden into a blessing.

Takeaways

  1. Work as an act of worship – Do everything as unto the Lord.
  2. Stay diligent – Avoid idleness and distractions.
  3. Use your talents – Serve others with your God-given gifts.
  4. Honor God through integrity – Work with excellence and honesty.
  5. Find joy in your labor – When done with the right heart, work becomes a blessing.
What are your thoughts on work and faith? Share in the comments!

 Strength for a Weary Soul  

Posted in @jimmiekepler, Bible, Bible Memes, Blog, Caregiver, Caregiving, Christian Living, Christian Writers, Jim Kepler, Jimmie A. Kepler, Jimmie Aaron Kepler, Jimmie Kepler, jimmiekepler.com, Poet, Poet's Life, Poets, US Military History, Writer's Life, Writing3 Comments

Strength for a Weary Soul  

“My soul melts away for sorrow; strengthen me according to your word!” — Psalm 119:28 ESV  

Introduction  

Sorrow is an inescapable part of life. We experience it through loss, disappointment, or seasons of uncertainty. The psalmist in Psalm 119:28 knew this feeling well—his words reflect a heart weighed down by burdens.  

Yet, instead of despairing, he turns to God’s Word for strength. His example teaches us that even in our weakest moments, Scripture offers the power to sustain us.  

How can we find strength in God’s Word when sorrow threatens to overwhelm us? Let’s explore three key ways Scripture strengthens a weary soul.  

1. God’s Word Reminds Us of His Presence  

Explanation 

One of the heaviest burdens of sorrow is the feeling of being alone. In difficult times, we may wonder if God sees our pain or hears our prayers. But Scripture assures us that He is always near.  

 “The Lord is near to the brokenhearted and saves the crushed in spirit.” — Psalm 34:18  

 “I will never leave you nor forsake you.” — Hebrews 13:5  

Illustration 

Consider Elijah in 1 Kings 19. After a great spiritual victory, he fled in fear and exhaustion. He felt abandoned and prayed that God would take his life.

Yet, God did not rebuke him—instead, He sent an angel to provide food and rest, and then He spoke to Elijah in a gentle whisper.  

Application

In our sorrow, we must remind ourselves of God’s presence. Spend time in His Word, meditate on His promises, and trust that even in silence, He is near.  

2. God’s Word Provides Unshakable Hope  

Explanation 

When sorrow fills our hearts, it’s easy to lose sight of hope. The pain feels permanent, and the future seems uncertain. But Scripture offers a different perspective—it reminds us that God’s plans are good, and our suffering is temporary.  

 “For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope.” — Jeremiah 29:11   

“Weeping may tarry for the night, but joy comes with the morning.” — Psalm 30:5  

Illustration

Horatio Spafford, the author of It Is Well with My Soul, lost his children in a tragic shipwreck. In his deepest sorrow, he turned to God’s promises and penned a hymn that has strengthened believers for generations.

He found hope in knowing that, despite his grief, God’s faithfulness remained.  

Application 

To cultivate hope, we must fill our minds with Scripture. Keep a list of Bible verses about hope and read them daily.

Let them reshape your perspective and remind you that sorrow does not have the final say.  

3. God’s Word Gives Strength to Endure  

Explanation 

Sorrow drains us emotionally, mentally, and physically. In those moments, we need more than positive thinking—we need divine strength. God’s Word gives us the endurance to press on, even when we feel like giving up.  

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

 “I can do all things through him who strengthens me.” — Philippians 4:13  

Illustration 

Think of a long distance runner. The race is grueling, and exhaustion sets in. But with proper training and nourishment, the runner finds the strength to keep going.

In the same way, feeding on God’s Word sustains us through life’s hardships.  

Application 

When sorrow leaves you weak, turn to Scripture. Read it, pray over it, and speak it aloud.

Let it be the fuel that keeps you moving forward.  

Conclusion  

Sorrow is real, but so is God’s strength.

The psalmist’s plea in Psalm 119:28 reminds us that when our hearts are heavy, God’s Word is the source of endurance, hope, and comfort.  

If you’re struggling today, don’t bear your burdens alone. Open your Bible, seek His presence, and let His promises strengthen you.  

Takeaways

  1. You are not alone – God’s Word reassures us of His constant presence, even in sorrow.  
  2. Hope is always available – Scripture shifts our perspective, reminding us that joy will come again.  
  3. Strength comes through His Word – When we feel weak, the Bible fuels our endurance and faith.  

How has God’s Word strengthened you in difficult times? Share in the comments below.  

 

True Comfort

Posted in Bible, Blog, Jim Kepler, Jimmie A. Kepler, Jimmie Aaron Kepler, Jimmie Kepler1 Comment

2 Cor 1-3-5

I want to share with you a story of “True Comfort.”  I recently was reading 2 Corinthians 1: 3 – 5 in my Bible. Here are some principles I gleaned from the Bible passage.

Introduction

Have you ever known people who despite tragedy were able to offer comfort to others?

I know a woman who within two years lost her husband, her father, and her two sons. When I saw her at the funeral of the last one to die, I was impressed by the way she graciously went around welcoming those who came to pay their respects. She offered comfort to others when you would think she would be the one needing it.

On the other hand, some people are devastated by personal hardships. When they suffer difficulties they find no peace, no consolation. They certainly are in no position to help others.

What is the difference? Where do those who can comfort others while enduring their tragedy receive the strength to help others?

The apostle Paul was one individual who had learned the secret. He passed what he learned along to us in his second letter to the Corinthians. It is in 2 Corinthians chapter one, verses three through five where we learn about “True Comfort.”

2 Corinthians 1: 3-5 English Standard Version of the Bible tells us, “Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies and God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our affliction, so that we may be able to comfort those who are in any affliction, with the comfort with which we ourselves are comforted by God. For as we share abundantly in Christ’s sufferings, so through Christ, we share abundantly in comfort too.”

Principle One is The Source of True Comfort

Many people seek comfort “in all the wrong places” to borrow a line from a song popular three and one-half decades ago.

  • Some people find comfort in thinking their problems are no worse than those of others.
  • Some people in thinking things will improve without ever taking the required actions to bring about positive change.
  • Still others believe their situation is so bad that it can’t be helped.
  • Some people try to forget. Some people try finding comfort in exciting and dissipating pleasures of the flesh.
  • Some in complaining and repining.

True comfort comes from God. He is called the “God of all comfort” in the Bible passage. Have you ever wondered why him?

It is because He is also the “Father of mercies.” The term “father” implies “source” as in the source of all mercies. He is the source of all kinds of goodness and mercy says James 1:17. Comfort is just one of His many mercies, and so He is described as:

  • The “God of all comfort” – 2 Corinthians 1:3
  • “The God of patience and comfort” – Romans 15:5
  • As the God of All comfort, there is no limitation to the comfort He provides.

The source of “True Comfort”, then, is God.  But when does it come, and how?

Principle Two is The Bestowal of “True Comfort.”

True Comfort is bestowed “in all our tribulation.” God comforts us when it is most needed were are told in 2 Corinthians 1:4. The Bible teaches God will not desert us in our times of need.

  • “I will never leave you nor forsake you.” – Hebrews 13:5b
  • He will not allow us to be tempted beyond our ability to bear – 1 Corinthians 10:13
  • Yes, even in “the valley of the shadow of death,” He is there to comfort us we are told in Psalms 23:4

Indeed, the greater the affliction, the greater the comfort we learn in 2 Corinthians 1:5. As the sufferings abound so does the consolation!

True Comfort is bestowed “through Christ.” 2 Corinthians 1:5 says “…so our consolation also abounds through Christ.”

Just as with all other spiritual blessings, it is found only “in Christ” – Ephesians 1:3.

To receive the comfort that comes from God, then, we must be “in Christ.” Being “in Christ,” there are two avenues through which comfort is dispensed. The first is The Word of God as seen in Romans 15:4. The second is Prayer as seen in Philippians 4: 6 – 7.

Principle Three is The Purpose of “True Comfort”

To comfort others “…that we may be able to comfort those who are in any trouble” teaches 2 Corinthians 1:4. The comfort God provides through Christ is not just for our private consumption.

“God does not comfort us to make us comfortable, but to make us comforters.” – John Henry Jowett (1817-1893)

Yes, our comfort is designed to be shared!

A case in point is how God comforted Paul in 2 Corinthians 7: 4 – 7, 13, The Corinthians comforted Titus in the way they received him. So comforted by the Corinthians’ reception, Titus’ coming then comforted Paul. Yet Paul saw that the source of this comfort was ultimately from God!

This reveals another avenue by which God bestows His comfort. It may come DIRECTLY from God (e.g., through His Word – Romans 15:4). It may also come INDIRECTLY from God, through the exhortations of others as seen in 1 Thessalonians 4:18.

Sadly, many people neglect all avenues through which God offers “true comfort.” They do not feed upon the Word and pray, to receive comfort directly. Nor do they develop the network of relationships with other Christians, through which God might comfort them indirectly when needed! But when all avenues are utilized, then “true comfort” is possible, and we can then pass it along!

Principle Four is A Consequence of True Comfort

Gratitude mingled with adoration is a consequence. The Apostle Paul began our text with these words: “Blessed be the God and Father…” says 2 Corinthians 1:3. It was the “true comfort” he had received that moved him to praise God.

Such praise is only natural. Not only because of the comfort we have received but also because of the comfort we can now pass along to others!

Conclusion

Are you lacking in this “true comfort”?   Perhaps you have been looking in the wrong places. It comes only from “the God of all comfort.”  It comes only “through Christ.”

Are you in Christ? Perhaps you are not benefiting from the comfort God gives others. There are those who would be happy to share their comfort with you. But you must be willing to develop the relationships necessary for such comfort to travel from them to you!

Are you working on your relationship with fellow Christians?

Philippians 2: 1 – 5 teaches For those who are faithful Christians, having delighted in fullness of “true comfort”, remember these exhortations

  • “Therefore, comfort each other and edify one another, just as you also are doing.” – 1 Thessalonians 5:11
  • “Now we exhort you, brethren, warn those who are unruly, comfort the fainthearted, uphold the weak, be patient with all.” – 1 Thessalonians 5:14.

Do these things, and we will all experience the “true comfort” by which we will want to say: “Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies and God of all comfort…”  – 2 Corinthians 1:3.

Jimmie Aaron Kepler is a novelist, poet, book reviewer, and award-winning short story writer. His work has appeared in over twenty venues, including Bewildering Stories and Beyond Imagination. When not writing each morning at his favorite coffeehouse, he supports his writing, reading, and book reviewing habit working as an IT application support analyst. He is a former Captain in the US Army. His blog Kepler’s Book Reviews was named a 100 best blogs for history buffs. You can visit him at http://www.jimmiekepler.com.