Kingdom Kaleidescope

What It Means to Not Be Shaken Life has a way of testing us. Storms come, challenges rise, and uncertainties often leave us feeling unstable. But the Bible speaks often of a life that is unshakable—a life rooted so deeply in God that no matter what comes, our foundation stands firm. Rooted in God’s Word To be “not shaken” doesn’t mean life will be easy or that struggles won’t come. Instead, it means that our security is anchored in God’s truth. Psalm 16:8 says, “I have set the Lord always before me; because he is at my right hand, I shall not be shaken.” David, who wrote these words, knew what it was like to face trials, enemies, and betrayal. Yet his confidence was not in his circumstances, but in the unchanging presence of God. Built on a Firm Foundation Jesus explained this picture in Matthew 7:24–25: “Everyone then who hears these words of mine and does them will be like a wise man who built his house on the rock. And the rain fell, and the floods came, and the winds bl...

If you are feeling like me lately and feel weighted down by life's circumstances and the turmoil in the world, you are not alone. It seems no matter where we turn in the natural, their is always depravity, wars, natural disasters, famine, and more. The news does nothing but paint bleak pictures of the torment the world is in, and then if you are on social media it is no better. We need to dig deeper than we have ever have before and our source is and should always be Jesus. When the world around appears to falling apart, find solace in Jesus. Read below on how to cultivate a  relationship with him, for if not now then when. Tomorrow is never promised, so dive deep today into the well watered spring. What It Means to Be Well-Watered In Scripture, water is often used as a powerful symbol of life, renewal, and God’s sustaining presence. Just as a plant cannot survive without water, our souls cannot thrive without the living water that only God provides. To be well-watered ...

While studying this particular passage, it hit me that the religious Jews were still reliving the bandage that their ancestors had gone through, like it was deeply engrained in their identity. Though they were no longer slaves (indentured servants) they still were not truly free, the freedom that Christ offered. They were still bound by religious traditions, and the truth that was to set them free had to be embraced and worked out through divine process of spiritual maturity. The reality is the truth of who Christ is, and that brings us more freedom.  We need to realize that though our ancestors (parents, grandparents and so on) may have been saved, that does not guarantee our salvation. We must embrace it ourselves and come into a close personal relationship with Jesus. If you do not know Jesus or have walked away from him, I encourage you to reach out. True Freedom in Christ: A Reflection on John 8:31–38 Scripture: “So Jesus said to the Jews who had believed him, ‘If ...

Listening, Doing, and Living the Word: Reflections on James 1:19–24 “Know this, my beloved brothers: let every person be quick to hear, slow to speak, slow to anger; for the anger of man does not produce the righteousness of God. Therefore put away all filthiness and rampant wickedness and receive with meekness the implanted word, which is able to save your souls. But be doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving yourselves. For if anyone is a hearer of the word and not a doer, he is like a man who looks intently at his natural face in a mirror. For he looks at himself and goes away and at once forgets what he was like.” — James 1:19–24 (ESV) A Call to Listen First James begins with practical wisdom that hits home in our noisy world: be quick to hear, slow to speak, slow to anger. Too often, we flip this around. We are quick to speak, quicker to react, and often slow to truly listen. But James reminds us that true godliness begins with humility and restraint. Listen...

While I was studying at Grace College of Divinity (Manna University), I did a study and paper on this subject and thought I would share it here. There is much to glean and learn from the Bible, and this particular passage reminds me I must not rely on my own strength, I must rely on him fully. Abiding in the True Vine: A Reflection on John 15 In John 15, Jesus paints one of the most vivid and life-giving pictures of what it means to follow Him: > “I am the true vine, and my Father is the vinedresser. Every branch in me that does not bear fruit he takes away, and every branch that does bear fruit he prunes, that it may bear more fruit.” (John 15:1–2, ESV) This passage reminds us that the Christian life is not about striving in our own strength but about abiding in Christ. Just as a branch cannot survive apart from the vine, neither can we live fruitful lives apart from Jesus. 1. Jesus: The True Vine When Jesus calls Himself the true vine, He is claiming to be the source o...

I often find myself thinking of this topic, of what does really look like to truly believe and alhave faith. If you are like me and struggle often with trials and tribulations, and wonder where God is in the middle of this Big mess; I want to encourage you to abandon all your reliance on your own understanding and really trust him. It is not easy totally trusting in a world that consistently fails us. Whether you are facing financial troubles, marital issues, health problems, struggling with suicide, depression, anxiety, loneliness, or unanswered prayers? Just lean on him and trust him. Get in his word, read about his promises, and build that genuine relationship with him.  We may not always have the answers to everything we struggle to understand, but that is ok. He has the answers and if and when he chooses to answer those questions, it will be ok. --------------------- What It Means to Truly Believe and Have Faith Faith is a word that gets used often in Christian cir...

You Cannot Serve Two Masters – A Reflection on Matthew 6:24 “No one can serve two masters, for either he will hate the one and love the other, or he will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve God and money.” – Matthew 6:24 (ESV) In this one verse, Jesus addresses a reality that still echoes loudly in our modern world: divided devotion. The human heart was never created to be pulled in two directions. We were designed for wholehearted worship, not half-hearted loyalty. The Tension of Two Masters When Jesus said “No one can serve two masters,” He wasn’t just speaking about money, though He used it as the most vivid example. Money represents power, security, comfort, and control—all things we often chase as if they could satisfy us. But the truth is, whatever we allow to master us will eventually rule our thoughts, priorities, and actions. Trying to serve both God and wealth (or anything else we elevate to God’s place) is like trying to walk in two oppo...

I came across a video from Kirk Cameron recently and it reminded me of a conversation that I had with some friends not long ago. I am not sure what led to the topic amongst us, but a friend confused that they struggled in their walk. I told them about this scripture and that all of us fall short, but the main thing is the grace that covers our sin. We all fall, but as long as we believe and do not reject the Holy Spirit, then we can walk in freedom of knowing we are forgiven.  The One Sin That Is Unforgivable When we think about sin, most of us know that God is merciful and forgiving. Scripture is filled with promises of grace—that if we confess our sins, God is faithful and just to forgive us (1 John 1:9). Yet, in the Gospels, Jesus speaks of one sin that is unforgivable: blasphemy against the Holy Spirit. This teaching can seem troubling, even frightening. What exactly does it mean, and why is this sin different from all others? --- Jesus’ Warning In Matthew 12:31–32,...

Ruth: A Story of Faithfulness, Redemption, and God’s Providence The book of Ruth is one of the most beautiful narratives in the Bible. Though only four chapters long, it is rich with lessons about loyalty, faith, love, and God’s sovereign hand at work in ordinary lives. Unlike many other biblical accounts filled with dramatic miracles, Ruth’s story unfolds in the quiet fields of Bethlehem and the simple decisions of everyday life—reminding us that God is always at work, even in the small details. --- A Story Rooted in Loyalty Ruth was a Moabite woman who married into an Israelite family during a time of famine. After the death of her husband, father-in-law, and brother-in-law, Ruth faced a choice: return to her people in Moab or remain with her mother-in-law, Naomi. Ruth’s famous words reveal the depth of her devotion: > “Where you go I will go, and where you lodge I will lodge. Your people shall be my people, and your God my God.” (Ruth 1:16, ESV) Her loyalty was not on...

With National Back to Church Sunday this Sunday, September 21st. Let's invite others by just asking them if they would like to come to church. You never know the missed opportunities if we should think someone else is better or because of fear. Step out in faith and share what Jesus has done in your life, and invite those around you to come to church with you.  The Historical and Biblical Significance of the Mustard Seed When Jesus spoke of the mustard seed, He used one of the smallest and most familiar seeds in the ancient world to teach timeless truths. Though tiny in size, the mustard seed carries both historical context and profound spiritual meaning that still challenges and encourages us today. The Mustard Seed in the Ancient World In first-century Israel, mustard plants were common and well-known. Farmers were very aware of how quickly they spread. Once planted, mustard could grow aggressively, shooting up to 8–10 feet tall and overtaking other crops. In fact, ma...

I remember watching Tarzan when it came out and did not realize the impact this particular song would have on me. When you look at it in a Loving Parent/ Loving Father figure, it changes the perspective.  God has been the only constant one there for me and my source of comfort. No matter what life threw at me, I could always count on him to be there. When we first start our walk with God, it's like we are an infant - in his loving gaze and embrace.  He watches over us, much like a parent or guardian does as we walk out our faith; allowing us to grow, learn and stumble along the way. The one thing is he never leaves, no matter what. We may push him away, walk away, and try to do things or own way, but he always remains.  I hope this reminds you that no matter what, God - Abba is always there. You’ll Be in My Heart” – A Song of Unshakable Love Some songs go beyond being just melodies or lyrics — they become emotional anchors, reminders of love that endures no ma...

You Are God’s Temple “Do you not know that you are God’s temple and that God’s Spirit dwells in you?” – 1 Corinthians 3:16 (ESV) When Paul wrote these words to the Corinthian church, he was addressing a community that struggled with division, pride, and misplaced priorities. They were caught up in arguments about leaders, gifts, and status—forgetting the very foundation of their faith. In reminding them that they are God’s temple, Paul redirects their focus to something greater: the presence of the living God within His people. God’s Presence Is No Longer Distant In the Old Testament, God’s presence dwelled in the temple at Jerusalem, behind the veil in the Holy of Holies. Only the high priest could enter, and only once a year. But because of Jesus’ sacrifice on the cross, the veil was torn (Matthew 27:51), symbolizing direct access to God through Christ. Now, through the Holy Spirit, God’s presence is not confined to a building—it dwells in us. You Are Sacred Space Think a...

Walking Humbly with God: A Reflection on Micah 6:8 and John’s Gospel “He has told you, O man, what is good; and what does the Lord require of you but to do justice, and to love kindness, and to walk humbly with your God?” — Micah 6:8 (ESV) --- Micah 6:8 gives us one of the clearest pictures of God’s expectations for His people: justice, mercy, and humility. Centuries later, the Gospel of John reveals how these qualities are embodied and fulfilled in the person of Jesus Christ. --- 1. Do Justice God’s justice is rooted in His truth. To “do justice” means to align our lives with His ways and stand for what is right. In John 3:19–21, Jesus speaks of light and darkness: > “And this is the judgment: the light has come into the world, and people loved the darkness rather than the light because their works were evil.” Justice begins by stepping into God’s light and living truthfully. Jesus Himself is the Light of the World (John 8:12), exposing injustice and calling His followe...

I've seen stories on number lambs and I've seen farmer videos on them. The farmer tries to get the mother to take care of her lamb, but for some reason or another she just won't. It's heart breaking to watch, but there is a lesson to be learned.  The Story of the Bummer Lamb If you’ve ever been around sheep, you may have heard the term bummer lamb. It’s not a flattering name, but the story behind it is both heartbreaking and hope-filled. A bummer lamb is one that has been rejected by its mother. Sometimes the ewe cannot produce enough milk, sometimes she has twins or triplets and cannot  care for them all, and other times—without any clear reason—she simply refuses to nurture one of her own. The lamb is left without warmth, milk, or the tender care it desperately needs to survive. On its own, a bummer lamb will quickly perish. But this is where the shepherd steps in. The shepherd takes the rejected lamb into his own arms. He bottle-feeds it, warms it by the ...

As a child we had several of these images in the house, and I still do to this day.  This image represents a lot to me, and makes me question my own motives in my heart.  How many times have I pushed him aside because I really on my own strength, knowledge, etc and I did not stop and ask him first. When things did not go as planned, then I get frustrated and complain to God about it, when all along I needed him. He stands ready, with open arms. I just need to rest in him. ---------- Behold, I Stand at the Door and Knock: A Reflection on Revelation 3:20 “Behold, I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in to him and eat with him, and he with me.” – Revelation 3:20 (ESV) This verse is one of the most well-known and often-quoted passages in the book of Revelation. It’s a beautiful picture of Christ’s invitation, His patience, and His desire for intimacy with His people. But to fully grasp its meaning, we need to step back...

Growing up, this is one of the scriptures that we had hanging on the wall. Ever since my dad got saved, he and my mom wanted to make sure it's kids served the Lord in some capacity. I am thankful for their dedication to growing spiritually and making sure that we all had a relationship with Jesus.  Today, I am privileged to be serving in the church, as well as helping to teach others to grow their own personal relationship with Jesus through spiritual formation like: spending time in silent reflection, prayer, reading the word, fellowship and praise and worship.  I pray that I continue to serve Him more and more daily and that out relationship continues to grow. ______________________________________ As for Me and My House, We Will Serve the Lord In Joshua 24:15, we find one of the most well-known declarations of faith in Scripture: > “But as for me and my house, we will serve the Lord.” Joshua spoke these words at a pivotal moment in Israel’s history. After yea...

I have the privilege of working with some horses, and I cannot tell you the joy I have just by being around them. They can teach us so much, and they know how we are feeling before we even say a word. I cannot tell you how many times I have just been hugged by them, as I cried into their necks. They help heal a part of me every time I am there.  ---------------------- What Horses Can Teach Us About the Bible and God There is something majestic and humbling about horses. Their strength, beauty, and loyalty capture our hearts and stir something deep inside of us. Throughout history, horses have played a vital role in human life—carrying burdens, traveling long distances, and standing beside us in both work and battle. Interestingly, the Bible also mentions horses over 150 times, often using them to teach us spiritual truths. If we look closely, horses can point us to the very heart of God and His Word. 1. Strength Under Control (Meekness) A horse is powerful—able to pull ...

While studying this passage, I dug deeper and found that the meaning behind to lift the burden of sin off of us was to not just take on the sin, but it was to break off the grip sin has on us, which takes the guilt and power it had on us a believers.  Such a profound meaning for me - he took the grip of sin off of me, so that I may walk in freedom. I find it hard sometimes to realize that I am free from that burden and still walk in condemnation and guilt. Lord help me to remember that I walk in freedom, away from the guilt and shame. ------- Behold, the Lamb of God John 1:29–34 "The next day he saw Jesus coming toward him, and said, 'Behold, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world!'" --- The Lamb Who Lifts the Burden When John the Baptist declared, “Behold, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world,” he spoke words rich with meaning. In Aramaic, the phrase “takes away” carries the sense of lifting up or carrying off a burden. This ...

Waiting patiently has got to be one of the hardest things we have to face. In a time in history when everything is done almost in an instant, waiting can be very challenging. It seems we are always in a rush from one place to the next, we have microwave meals, fast food, fast cars, and even faster Internet. Yet, we are more impatient than we ever have been.  I don't know about you, but I've been praying for some things for not just years, but decades. Those prayers still seem to go unanswered and it drains the strength from me, but I need to be patient and wait on his timing and rely on his strength to get me through.  For now I will keep praying.  The Beauty of Waiting on God’s Timing You are not reading this by accident. God’s timing is one of the hardest lessons to accept, yet one of the most rewarding truths to live out. We see this beautifully in the life of David. Anointed as a young boy to be the future king of Israel (1 Samuel 16:13), David waited near...

Grace Upon Grace “For from his fullness we have all received, grace upon grace.” – John 1:16 (ESV) John’s words in this verse are short but overflowing with depth. When he describes what we receive from Jesus, he doesn’t just say grace—he says grace upon grace. It’s a picture of wave after wave rolling onto the shore, one following another, unending and unstoppable. Grace is God’s unmerited favor—His kindness and blessing given to us not because we deserve it, but because of who He is. But John emphasizes that God doesn’t stop at giving us one measure of grace. He layers it, stacks it, and pours it out in abundance. ______________________________ Think of it this way: Saving Grace – We are rescued from sin and death by Jesus’ sacrifice. Sustaining Grace – God gives us daily strength for trials, temptations, and weaknesses. Transforming Grace – The Spirit shapes us into Christ’s likeness, teaching us to walk in newness of life. Future Grace – We hold onto the promise of eter...