Category: What do you think?

God’s Truth When Our Heart Condemns Us

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AMY TURNER

In 1 John 3:20, we are told that “God is greater than our heart and knows all things.” At first, it may seem unusual that such a reminder is needed, since no one would claim their own heart is stronger than God. Yet the words are written for a reason, and they bring comfort.

Many followers of Christ know what it is like to lose peace and joy because of failure. Sin often leaves us anxious and fearful, much like Paul’s struggle in Romans 7, where he confessed that he could not always do what he desired and often did what he did not want to do. This inner conflict can lead believers into self-condemnation, where they constantly dwell on their shortcomings.

It is right to feel sorrow over sin. It should bring us to repentance. But even in those moments when we feel the weight of guilt, God sees beyond the weakness of our heart. He knows all things, and He is greater than our feelings of failure. He is greater than our heart.

Therefore there is now no condemnation at all for those who are in Christ Jesus.

Romans 8:1

The Silence of Jesus Before His Accusers

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JEFF TURNER

In the gospels, Jesus often spoke with those who opposed him, answering questions and even warning them. Yet in Matthew 27:12, as he faced false accusations before the cross, he chose not to respond. This silence astonished Pilate, who had judged many prisoners. And the prisoners were most eager to protest their innocence or plead for mercy.

Jesus, however, remained calm and peaceful, offering no defence. His innocence was clear and needed no argument. Pilate could see that the charges did not match the man before him. This moment fulfilled Isaiah’s prophecy that the Messiah would be “like a lamb led to the slaughter” and would not open his mouth (Isaiah 53:7).

Pilate knew Jesus had done no wrong and was disturbed by the deceit of the religious leaders. Yet, fearing for his own position with Rome after past mistakes with Jewish customs, he did not act with justice. Jesus entrusted himself to God who judges righteously, even in the face of false accusations.

and while being abusively insulted, He did not insult in return; while suffering, He did not threaten, but kept entrusting Himself to Him who judges righteously;

1 Peter 2:23

Finding True Peace Through Trust in God

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FLOYD ROGERS

When someone receives salvation, they are made right with God, and from that point on, they can begin to feel a deep peace within. This peace is not just the absence of conflict. It is a calmness that settles in the heart, no matter the circumstances.

The Apostle Paul spoke about this kind of peace while he was in prison. Despite being locked up and chained to a Roman guard, he said he felt a peace that he could not fully explain. It was more than just a feeling. It went beyond his ability to understand. Even in such harsh conditions, he had learned to be content. The peace he described was steady, deeply satisfying, and not dependent on external situations.

And the peace of God, which surpasses all comprehension, will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.

Philippians 4:7

False Teachers and Their Claim to Belong to Christ

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AMY TURNER

In 2 Peter 2:1, we read a warning that false teachers will come among believers. They will secretly spread teachings that destroy faith, and some will even deny the Lord who is described as having “bought them.” At first glance, this may sound as if Christ purchased their salvation, but the meaning is different.

Peter uses the picture of a master who has purchased servants for his household. Once bought, those servants are expected to serve with loyalty and obedience. In the same way, false teachers claim to belong to Christ’s household. They speak as if they are his representatives, but their actions prove otherwise. They do not live in true service to him, and instead they spread lies and lead others away from the truth.

This is what makes them so harmful. The warning is clear: false teachers are dangerous because they appear to belong to Christ while denying him in practice.

They claim to know God, but by their actions they deny him. They are detestable, disobedient and unfit for doing anything good.

Titus 1:16

Understanding Paul’s Thorn in the Flesh

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JEFF TURNER

In 2 Corinthians 12:7, Paul speaks of a “thorn in the flesh” given to him. Some have guessed it was a physical illness, perhaps affecting his eyes, but the passage itself does not suggest a disease. Paul describes it clearly as a messenger of Satan. It’s a demonic force sent to trouble him.

This was not demon possession, since believers, as temples of the Holy Spirit, cannot be possessed. Instead, it was a form of spiritual attack that struck deeply and brought ongoing torment. It is likely connected to the opposition and unrest within the Corinthian church.

God allowed this trial for a purpose. Paul explains that it kept him from becoming proud because of the great revelations he had received. Even after praying three times for its removal, the Lord did not take it away. Paul accepted this, seeing that God’s power works best in humility.

Strength comes through dependence on Christ.

I can do all things through Him who strengthens me.

Philippians 4:13