Reminder of our identity in Christ

Here’s a list of Bible verses that will serve as a helpful reminder of our identity in Christ Jesus, Our Lord and Savior:

John 1:12 – Yet to all who did receive him, to those who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God.
John 15:15 – “I no longer call you servants, because a servant does not know his master’s business. Instead, I have called you friends, for everything that I learned from my Father I have made known to you.“
Romans 5:1 – Therefore, since we have been justified through faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ,
1 Corinthians 6:17 – But whoever is united with the Lord is one with him in spirit.
1 Corinthians 6:20 – you were bought at a price. Therefore honor God with your bodies.
1 Corinthians 12:27 – Now you are the body of Christ, and each one of you is a part of it.
Ephesians 1:1 – Paul, an apostle of Christ Jesus by the will of God, to God’s holy people in Ephesus, the faithful in Christ Jesus:
Ephesians 1:5 – He predestined us for adoption to sonship through Jesus Christ, in accordance with His pleasure and will
Ephesians 2:18 – For through him we both have access to the Father by one Spirit.
Colossians 1:14 – in whom we have redemption, the forgiveness of sins.
Colossians 2:10 – and in Christ you have been brought to fullness. He is the head over every power and authority.

Romans 8:1-2 – Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus, because through Christ Jesus the law of the Spirit who gives life has set you free from the law of sin and death.
Romans 8:28 – And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.
Romans 8:33-34 – Who will bring any charge against those whom God has chosen? It is God who justifies. Who then is the one who condemns? No one. Christ Jesus who died — more than that, who was raised to life — is at the right hand of God and is also interceding for us.
Romans 8:35 – Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall trouble or hardship or persecution or famine or nakedness or danger or sword?
2 Corinthians 1:21 – Now it is God who makes both us and you stand firm in Christ. He anointed us,
Colossians 3:3 – For you died, and your life is now hidden with Christ in God.
Philippians 1:6 – being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.
Philippians 3:20 – But our citizenship is in heaven. And we eagerly await a Savior from there, the Lord Jesus Christ,
2 Timothy 1:7 – For the Spirit God gave us does not make us timid, but gives us power, love and self-discipline.
Hebrews 4:16 – Let us then approach God’s throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need.
1 John 5:18 – We know that anyone born of God does not continue to sin; the One who was born of God keeps them safe, and the evil one cannot harm them.

Matthew 5:13-14 – “You are the salt of the earth. But if the salt loses its saltiness, how can it be made salty again? It is no longer good for anything, except to be thrown out and trampled underfoot. You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden.”
John 15:1-5 – “I am the true vine, and my Father is the gardener.  He cuts off every branch in me that bears no fruit, while every branch that does bear fruit he prunes so that it will be even more fruitful. You are already clean because of the word I have spoken to you. Remain in me, as I also remain in you. No branch can bear fruit by itself; it must remain in the vine. Neither can you bear fruit unless you remain in me. I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing.”
John 15:16 – You did not choose me, but I chose you and appointed you so that you might go and bear fruit—fruit that will last—and so that whatever you ask in my name the Father will give you.
Acts 1:8 – “But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.”
1 Corinthians 3:16 – Don’t you know that you yourselves are God’s temple and that God’s Spirit dwells in your midst?
2 Corinthians 5:17-20 – Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here! All this is from God, who reconciled us to himself through Christ and gave us the ministry of reconciliation: that God was reconciling the world to himself in Christ, not counting people’s sins against them. And he has committed to us the message of reconciliation. We are therefore Christ’s ambassadors, as though God were making his appeal through us. We implore you on Christ’s behalf: Be reconciled to God.
2 Corinthians 6:1 – As God’s co-workers we urge you not to receive God’s grace in vain.
Ephesians 2:6 – And God raised us up with Christ and seated us with him in the heavenly realms in Christ Jesus,
Ephesians 2:10 – For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.
Ephesians 3:12 – In him and through faith in him we may approach God with freedom and confidence.
Philippians 4:13 – I can do all this through him who gives me strength.





Fr. Mike Schmitz – If you’re not feeling loved

In what is probably one of the best videos I’ve watched lately, Fr. Mike Schmitz from Ascension Presents’ YouTube channel addresses the topic of not feeling loved (by the people in your life) and how to handle it in a Christian worldview. I’ve found the Biblical example of Leah from The Old Testament particularly moving.

Let me know what you think about this topic. Do you agree with his advice? How do you think Christians should handle the emotions that stem from not feeling loved?

Fr. Mike Schmitz – If you’re not feeling loved

Meditate on Scripture everyday for a month – February 2020 challenge

In today’s world, in many countries, February is considered the month of love. Since God is love, this seemed like a really interesting challenge. I found it on Instagram and I wanted to post it on my blog and encourage you to give it a try. If you miss one or two days, it’s probably alright.

7 truths to remind yourself when you are in a difficult spiritual battle

The apostle Paul warns us that, in this life, we are in a constant spiritual battle against evil and the enemy’s forces (Ephesians 6:12). Sometimes, the spiritual battles can get difficult. I want to share this short list of 7 truths that you should remind yourself when you feel overwhelmed fighting the good fight:

  1. God is good (Luke 18:19)
  2. His grace is sufficient (2 Corinthians 12:9)
  3. You are a child of God (Galatians 4:7)
  4. You don’t have to be afraid (Philippians 4:6)
  5. He is able (Ephesians 3:20)
  6. You are a new creation in Christ (2 Corinthians 5:17)
  7. Be still and know that He is God (Psalm 46:10)

God bless you!

The Bible Project

The Bible Project is a non-profit animation studio that produces short-form, fully animated videos to make the biblical story accessible to everyone, everywhere. They create 100% free videos, podcasts, and resources that explore the Bible’s unified story.

The Bible is a divine-human book that speaks God’s word to his people. The Bible Project believes that The Bible ultimately points us to Jesus, who has the power to change individuals and whole communities when we let the biblical story speak for itself.

I invite you to check out their videos and read more about the project on their website. Let me know what you think about The Bible Project and support them by liking, subscribing to, following etc. their social pages.

You anoint my head with oil…

Psalms 23 (HCSB)
The Lord is my shepherd;
there is nothing I lack.
He lets me lie down in green pastures;
He leads me beside quiet waters.
He renews my life;
He leads me along the right paths
for His name’s sake.
Even when I go through the darkest valley,
I fear no danger,
for You are with me;
Your rod and Your staff — they comfort me.
You prepare a table before me
in the presence of my enemies;
You anoint my head with oil;
my cup overflows.
Only goodness and faithful love will pursue me
all the days of my life,
and I will dwell in the house of the Lord
as long as I live.

Psalm 23 beautifully evokes assurance and confidence to our souls while reminding us of what God, in His goodness, has provided for us.

I came across a post on a social networking page that shines light about what the verse “You anoint my head with oil” refers to, and no, it is not only figurative language for God keeping the Psalmist healthy (as it could seem for us, who are not familiar with pastoral life). Scripture abounds in allusions to pastoral life and the similes drawn from that life sometimes escape us, so these type of explanations are more than welcomed. I will copy and paste the explanation, and invite you to go follow said social network page, like their posts, leave them positive comments and show them your support.

“Sheep can get their head caught in briers and die trying to get untangled. There are horrid little flies that like to torment sheep by laying eggs in their nostrils which turn into worms and drive the sheep to beat their head against a rock, sometimes to death. Their ears and eyes are also susceptible to tormenting insects. So the shepherd anoints their whole head with oil. Then there is peace. That oil forms a barrier of protection against the evil that tries to destroy the sheep. Do you have times of mental torment? Do the worrisome thoughts invade your mind over and over? Do you beat your head against a wall trying to stop them? Have you ever asked God to anoint your head with oil? He has an endless supply! His oil protects and makes it possible for you to fix your heart, mind, and eyes on Him today and always! There is peace in the valley! May our good good Father anoint your head with oil today so that your cup overflows with blessings! God is good and He is faithful!!”

Facebook.com/FaithInGod247

Let me know, in the comments section, what you think about this explanation. Did you know this particular aspect of tending sheep? Did it cause you a “wow” moment, as it did to me when I first read it?

About The Names Of God

The most important prayer in Christianity is The Lord’s Prayer (Our Father / Pater Noster), the prayer that Jesus taught his disciples. Used by most Christian churches in their worship, The Lord’s Prayer is recorded in Matthew 6:9-13 and, in a shorter version, in Luke 11:2-4.

The Lord’s Prayer begins with an invocation of God and a request related to His Name: Our Father Who art in Heaven, hallowed be Thy Name.

God’s Name is of utmost importance in understanding His nature and His character. When asked by Moses asked Him what His Name was at the burning bush, God replied: “I AM that I AM… You must say this to the Israelites, ‘I AM has sent me to you.'” (Exodus 3:14). God made it clear that He is eternally present. He has always been, He is now and He will always be.

Not only that, but this name of God also describes His eternal presence with His people. He is present to help, guide, comfort, save us etc. and His presence never leaves those who call upon His Name with a repentant heart. This is one of the most important lessons we learn from the very name of God: I AM.

The names that were given to God throughout the Old Testament offer us a glimpse into God’s character and how people saw and experienced Him.

Below I will post a list of God’s Names from The Old and The New Testament, as well as links to two websites where you can read detailed explanations about each of the names:

Yahweh
(Genesis 2:4, Isaiah 40:3; 10; 1 Samuel 1:20; Exodus 6:1-4, 3:1-22)

Adonai
(Genesis 15:2, Judges 6:15, Malachi 1:6, Deuteronomy 10:17; Psalm 2:4, 8:1, 97:5, 136:3; Isaiah 1:24, 6:1; Romans 10:9)

Yahweh-Maccaddeshem
(Exodus 31:13, Leviticus 20:8; Ezekiel 37:28)

Yahweh-Rohi
(Psalm 23, 80:1, 95:7, Isaiah 40:11, Jeremiah 31:10, Ezekiel 34:12, 23)

Yahweh-Shammah
(Ezekiel 48:35, Genesis 28:15, Ezekiel 48:35, Psalm 23:4, 46:1, 139:7-12, Jeremiah 23:23-24, Amos 5:14)

Yahweh-Rapha
(Exodus 15:26, Exodus 15:26, 2 Chronicles 7:14, Psalm 6:2, 41:4, 103:3, 147:3, Isaiah 19:22, 30:36, 57:18-19, Jeremiah 3:22; 17:14, 30:17)

Yahweh-Tsidkenu
(Jeremiah 23:6, Genesis 15:6, Jeremiah 23:6, Psalm 4:1, 5:8, 24:5, 31:1, 36:10, 71:15, 89:16)

Yahweh-Jireh
(Genesis 22:13-14)

Yahweh-Nissi
(Exodus 17:15)

Yahweh-Shalom
(Judges 6:24)

Yahweh-Sabbaoth
(Isaiah 6:1-3, 1 Samuel 1:3, 17:45; 2 Samuel 6:2, 7:26-27; 1 Chronicles 11:9; Haggai 1:5)

Yahweh-Ghmolah
(Jeremiah 51:6)

Elohim
(Gen. 1:1, 17:7, Ps 19:1 Jer. 31:33)

El-Elyon
(Genesis 14:17-20, Deuteronomy 26:19, Isaiah 14:13-14)

El-Gibhor
(Isaiah 9:6)

El-Olam
(Isaiah 40:28-31)

El-Roi
(Genesis 16:13)

El-Shaddai-Rohi
(Gen. 17:1, 49:24, Ps. 91:1, 132:2, 5)

El-Chuwl
(Psalm 139:13-18)

El-Deah
(1 Samuel 2:3; Romans 11:33-36; 1 Cor. 1:18-31)

Attiyq Youm
(Daniel 7:9, 13, 14)

https://www.godisreal.today/names-of-god/

https://www.jesusfilm.org/blog-and-stories/names-of-god.html

Helpful Bible chapters for various occasions

In our walk with God, us Christians live complex lives. We have successes and failures, we feel all sort of emotions and we have to face various obstacles. In this article, I want to share with you a list of ten fragments from Scripture that will come in handy in various situations.

If you are worrying, read Matthew 6:19-34. Remember: God takes care of everything when you put your faith in Him. Besides, as Jesus points out, worrying doesn’t prolong anyone’s life.

If you are lonely or fearful, read Psalm 23. Remember: When The Lord is your shepherd, you lack nothing and should fear nothing. Trust in His goodness and His love, which follow His children forever.

If you are in sorrow, read John 14:1-6. Remember: Jesus is The Way, The Truth and The Life. You shouldn’t let your hearts be troubled if you trust that Jesus will show you the way to Paradise (His Father’s house).

If you are grateful, read Psalm 103. Remember to praise God for all He has done, is doing and will do for you. King David gave us great examples of how to praise The Lord in prayer.

If you are disappointed with other people, read Psalm 27. Remember: Seek The Lord, seek His Name, seek His Face, seek His beauty, and He will grant you confidence and help you face whatever enemies may come against you.

If God seems far away, read Psalm 139. Remember: God is everywhere and, even though we might not feel His presence sometimes, He is close. Like the psalmist, we should marvel at the omnipresence of God even in the most secret of places, and praise God for His vast knowledge of the future.

If you need courage, read Joshua 1. Remember: Joshua needed courage when he was installed leader, after Moses’ death. When we feel scared or uncertain about whether we can overcome certain challenges, we should read the words of encouragement that God gave to Joshua.

If you are in danger, read Psalm 91. Remember: God will deliver you from any troubles if you put your faith in Him. Psalm 91 is a reminder of the fact that God always helps those who obey Him and seek Him.

If you have sinned, read Psalm 51. Remember: it is important to confess our sins to God and to ask for His forgiveness. We should also ask Him to change our hearts and our souls according to His Will.

If you want to be more like Jesus, read John 15. Remember: it is important to be in Him in order to bear fruit. This chapter will also teach you about how to face the adversities of the world.

Let me know if these have helped you. Feel free to share, in the comments section below, your favorite verses or fragments from The Bible.

Feast Day of Prophet Elijah, 2019

Saint Elijah The Prophet Orthodox Church Liturgy

Every year, on the 20th of July, the Orthodox Church commemorates Prophet Elijah (Elias).

The Holy Prophet Elijah was born in Tishba of Gilead into the Levite tribe 900 years before the Incarnation of the Word of God. Elijah is one of the greatest of the prophets, and the first dedicated to virginity in the Old Testament.

Saint Epiphanius of Cyprus gives the following account about the birth of the Prophet Elijah: “When Elijah was born, his father Sobach saw in a vision angels of God around him. They swaddled him with fire and fed him with flames”.

The name Elijah (“Yahweh is my God”) given to the infant defined his whole life. Having dedicated himself to The One God, Elijah settled in the wilderness and spent his whole life in strict fasting, meditation, and prayer. Called to prophetic service, which put him in conflict with the Israelite king Ahab, the prophet became a fiery zealot of true faith and piety.

Read more about the Holy Prophet Elijah in The Bible, and in this article.