Overcoming Grief

Joy not only grounds you, but there is a blessing in weaponizing it!

Worry is a universal human experience, but as Christians, we have the powerful tool of God's Word to guide us through our moments of anxiety. The Bible provides us with invaluable wisdom and encouragement to address worrying and find peace in the midst of life's uncertainties. Let's explore a few scriptural passages that can help us overcome worry.

Depression is a formidable opponent that affects millions of people worldwide. Its grip can be suffocating, leaving individuals feeling lost, hopeless, and spiritually drained. As Christians, we have a unique perspective and a source of strength that can aid us in our fight against depression. In this article, we will explore practical steps and biblical principles that can guide us on the path to healing and restoration.

In the spiritual journey of life, it is essential for us to understand that we are engaged in a constant battle. The world we live in is filled with trials, temptations, and spiritual warfare that can leave us feeling weary and vulnerable.

. I still remember vividly as a little boy in Sunday school when I first heard of the strongest man in history. Some of the feats done by Samson were truly incredible. One can't even imagine the special effects needed to recreate a single man killing thousands with a donkey jaw bone! But unfortunately as other stories have epic moments, this story also has a sense of tragedy.

The word repentance in the Bible literally means “the act of changing one’s mind.” True biblical repentance goes beyond remorse, regret, or feeling bad about one’s sin. It involves more than merely turning away from sin.

3/25 Thursday Fellowship Devotion Question Response Question Overview Tithing has been a thoroughly debated topic over the years in the church. There are many Christians who believe in the principle. Some hear the word " tithing " and immediately believe anyone performing the practice is adhering to an unbiblical command. But what does the Bible say on the matter? This brings us to purpose of the devotional question and response. What is Tithing? The tithe was an old testament concept and mandatory offering from the law of Moses. It required 10 percent of an Israelite’s first fruits. Because God provided the harvest, this first part was returned to Him. It was a reminder to Israel that all things we have are His. It was a show of thankfulness for His provision. It also provided for the Levitical priesthood, festivals, and the needy. Is Tithing required today in the New Testament? No, it is not a Biblical requirement in the New Testament. After the death of Jesus Christ fulfilled the Law, the New Testament nowhere commands, authorizes or even recommends, that Christians submit to a legalistic tithe system. What is the biblical standard for Christian giving today? In the New Testament church today, we are called to give through offering. Offering is about freely giving to the work of the Lord, the local church and ministries. There are two spiritual components when giving today in the New Testament Church It must be heart given cheerfully. (2 Corinthians 9:6-7) We give according to our ability (1 Corinthians 16:1-2) What is the difference between tithing and offering? Tithing is an obligatory set amount of giving. Offering is one giving by their means and capability. Can we model our giving today by the principle of tithing? Absolutely, There is no standard on how much we can give today. I would encourage that Christians who want to base their offering on mandatory principles that they exceed 10% according to the scriptures if you want it to be Biblical (Matthew 5:20). Something to ponder and share No matter whether you adopt the practice of tithing or offering the main thing is to ensure we give with the right motive and attitude. Giving should always originate from the love we have for the Lord and his kingdom. Some scriptures for reference Leviticus 27:30; Numbers 18:26; Deuteronomy 14:24; 2 Chronicles 31:5 1 Cor. 16:1-2, 2 Cor. 9:6-7

Say it with me.. Amen ! Staying at home more does not have to drive you completely crazy. During this time of sickness we should be definitely taking precautions, wearing a mask and doing our due diligence of social distancing. In addition to being careful, there are some other things we can be doing while spending more time in at home. Here are 5 things you can be doing in this Covid season. 1. Meditation Picking a quiet time and place during the day goes a long way. It can just be a few minutes where you spend time for yourself and by yourself. Meditation is also great to go into before or after prayer. This not only can usher in a peaceful spirit, but can aid in a relaxed and clear mind . The Bible is filled with some great scriptures on meditation. Here are a few that I believe will put you on the right track. Psalms 1:2, 19:14, 119:15, 104:34, Philippians 4:8 , Proverbs 4:20-22 and Isaiah 26:3. 2. Self Examinations Not only are we in a pandemic season, but. I believe we are also in a season of correction. 2 Corinthians 13:5 talks about examining ourselves to see where we stand spiritually. More than ever this is the time to see how we can get improve our walk with God. Examine your spiritual strengths and weaknesses . Continue to leverage what you do well but also think about opportunities where you can draw closer to Christ! 3. Encourage yourself and others " Wherefore comfort yourselves together, and edify one another, even as also ye do (1 Thessalonians 5:11) . Encouragement is fuel for the soul . It is both important and imperative that we keep our spirits up! Some of the ways to keep yourself encouraged is staying active in worship or devotional ministry. Spiritual activities and routines also aid in keeping us focus on Christ. Staying connected to others saints through text, phone or social media can also serve as a conduit to encourage one another. 4. Determined Prayer The fervent and righteous prayer illustrated in James 5:13-16 is a great example of a determined prayer. It is filled with both passion and zeal. Determined prayer is also reinforced with consistency. 1 Thessalonians 5:17 gives spiritual insight by exhorting us to keep praying always. Another great example of determined prayer is found in Daniel 6:10-17, which serves as a great example of how determined prayer can keep our minds on God. 5. Purposeful Study Reading the Bible is one thing, but memorizing and applying brings your study life to a special place. This is a great time to infuse new study habits. Expounding and doing further study on scriptures given during sermons can be one level of study. Topical studies is another way to give purpose as you can develop a study rotation on a different topic each month or week. Exposition studies can give purpose by dealing with different subjects and ideas contained in scripture. Want to read the Bible in a year? This can be a great time to do a Bible reading plan of the all the books or sections. Covid-19 will be with us for a while, but it does not mean we have to allow it to have power over us. We can be careful, prayerful and productive at the same times during the season. Much Love. Be Blessed! Keir S. Brady is the senior minister of the Central Union Church of Christ located in Nolanville Texas. Central Union Church of Christ at Nolanville 100 West Avenue G, Nolanville Texas 76559 www.mycufamily.org inquire@cuccan.org

Spiritual growth can be the difference between a thriving faith and one that is stagnate. God not only wants us to grow but requires it (Eph. 4:15-16). The Lord wants us to be all we can be in Him. Below are a few things every Christian needs for spiritual growth.