Tag Archives: Spirituality

Unraveling the Rich Young Ruler

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Title: Unraveling the Rich Young Ruler’s Dilemma: Jesus’ Commandment Conundrum
In the saga of the Rich Young Ruler (Matthew 19:16-22; Mark 10:17-22; Luke 18:18-23), a youth of wealth and position sought the path to eternal life. Politeness led him to call Jesus a “Good Teacher,” unwittingly acknowledging Jesus’ divinity. Responding, Jesus pointed to the commandments as the guide to eternal life.

Now, brace yourself for the divine comedy:

  1. Thou Shall Not Murder, Commit Adultery, Steal, Bear False Witness: Jesus listed these classics, ensuring a solid foundation for moral living. It was like God’s greatest hits playlist.
  2. Do Not Defraud (Mark): Sneaking in a lesser-known track, Jesus dropped this gem, akin to a bonus feature on the DVD of divine commandments.
  3. Honor Your Father and Mother: Standard protocol, a commandment to keep family ties strong – because even divine beings know the importance of a good family dinner.
  4. Love Thy Neighbor as Thyself (Matthew): The golden rule made an appearance, confirming that Jesus’ playlist had a theme: relationship management.

Jesus, being the ultimate DJ, customized his setlist to emphasize interpersonal relationships, hinting that the young ruler’s stumbling block was in his connections with others.

However, the ruler, eager for a more personalized commandment, sought specifics. Enter Jesus, the life coach:

“If you want VIP access to heaven, sell all your possessions, give to the poor, and join my exclusive disciples’ club.”

Jesus wasn’t advocating a fire sale for everyone, just pinpointing the young man’s Achilles’ heel: his love affair with wealth.

Now, the tragic punchline: The young ruler, torn between eternal life and earthly possessions, couldn’t part with his treasures. Even though promised heaven, he couldn’t part with his beloved belongings.

Lesson for us all: What’s our prized possession? Would we sacrifice it for a golden ticket to heaven? (Matthew 10:37-39).

In this divine sitcom, Jesus showcased that sometimes, the best comedy has a serious undertone – or, in this case, an eternal one.

Trinity of Love

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In a quaint town nestled among rolling hills, there lived a trio of friends: Sarah, David, and Emily. They were inseparable, often seen wandering through the town’s cobbled streets, sharing laughter and adventures.

One breezy afternoon, while lounging in the park, their chatter turned to deeper matters—the meaning of life and the existence of something greater. Sarah, the thoughtful one, gazed at the sky and whispered, “The Father reigns in heaven’s height.”

David, the jovial jokester, grinned and exclaimed, “And the Son, our Savior, brings us light! That’s what my grandma always says!”

Emily, the quiet observer, nodded knowingly. “The Spirit moves, unseen, yet near, guiding souls with love sincere.”

Their conversation led them on a quest for understanding, seeking wisdom in the words of the Scriptures. As they journeyed, each encounter seemed to mirror the verses they discussed.

At the town square, Sarah paused to help a struggling elderly woman. Quoting Matthew 25:40, she said, “Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.” The woman’s face lit up with gratitude.

Meanwhile, David found himself in a local eatery, sharing a meal with a lonely man. With a smile, he recited John 8:12, “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness but will have the light of life.” The man’s gloomy countenance transformed into hope.

Emily stumbled upon a group of children playing by the riverbank. She knelt and shared, “Psalm 139:7 says, ‘Where can I go from your Spirit? Where can I flee from your presence?’ God is always near.” The children’s innocent giggles filled the air.

Their encounters deepened their understanding of the divine presence in everyday life. As they continued their journey, they stumbled upon a charity event where they witnessed generosity and compassion. Quoting 1 John 4:9, they realized, “This is how God showed his love among us: He sent his one and only Son into the world that we might live through him.”

Their experiences bonded them even more, reaffirming their faith and friendship. With hearts brimming with gratitude, they returned to the park, where they first delved into their spiritual quest. Looking at each other, they recited Jeremiah 29:13 in unison, “You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart.”

Their journey had taught them that the message on their t-shirts wasn’t just words—it was a revelation. With smiles and a newfound sense of purpose, they vowed to continue spreading the love and light they had discovered, one verse and one act of kindness at a time.

And as they laughed and teased each other under the setting sun, they knew that the divine presence they sought was always with them—the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit—guiding their souls with love sincerely.

Pick of the Week: Billy Graham

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Billy Graham: A Biography of America's Greatest Evangelist audiobook cover art

The inspirational story of the 20th century’s greatest evangelist

Billy Graham has preached the Gospel message in person to more people than anyone in history, and millions more have heard him through television, radio, and film. His faithful witness is testimony to his great love of God and passion to serve him.

As you listen to these details of a life dedicated to the cause of Christ, you will be encouraged. Also these stories will inspire anyone who desires to give their life in service to God.

This easy-to-lsiten-to biography tells Billy Graham’s story, including his humble beginnings as a Southern farm boy, his calling to the ministry, the start of the crusades, his service to America’s leaders, and his later years preaching around the globe.

Image result for BILLY GRAHAM EVENTS

Here’s a fresh look at a contemporary man of God and giant of the faith.

©2015 W. Terry Whalin (P)2017 W. Terry Whalin

REVIEWS

Pick of the Week: God Longs to Heal You

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Your time for wholeness has come!

God can heal what we reveal.

Powerfully anointed Bishop T.D. Jakes calls you to courageously confess every layer of superficiality, religious reasonings, and pious pretending to your Lord. His gracious love and forgiveness will free you and heal you.

God Longs to Heal You provides inspiration from a man who shares his personal struggles to help those desperate for the Lord’s loving touch. You, too, can find peace in today’s troubled world by understanding God’s desire to heal your body, mind, and spirit.

“O Lord my God, I cried unto thee, and thou hast healed me.”

~ Psalms 30:2

T.D. Jakes believes this is your important first step to true freedom and progress in every part of your life. When you reveal what God longs to heal, you and those around you will experience the life-changing presence of God bringing joy and wholeness.

©2012 Destiny Image (P)2015 Destiny Image

God Longs to Heal You audiobook cover art