Tag Archives: Biblical truth

A Better New Year’s Resolution, Part 2

January 13, 2026 ITWMinistries Leave a comment

A better new year

As we previously shared, new year’s resolutions are not the best way to create change in our life. Strength of character and self-will, often fall short in taking us where we really want to be. We determined that “the best way” to introduce real change in our lives is through our relationship with Jesus Christ. We must put on our “new man”. In Christ we have a new identity.

Embrace our identity in Christ

When I began my Christian walk, the meaning of “in Christ” was a mystery to me. I tried to understand it based on those things I was familiar with. For example, I established membership in the local church. I was in fellowship with its members to serve and glorify God in my life. But “in Christ”, what did it mean?

In Christ is the present experience of the risen Christ indwelling the believer’s heart. Through the Holy Spirit we take on the personality of Christ. It is more than an imitation of the life and teaching of Jesus. It describes the believer’s union with Christ as a result of the divine action of grace by God. The result of that action is the believer is transformed into a “new man.” (2 Corinthians 5:17).

Renewed in knowledge

Knowledge is defined as general awareness or familiarity gained by experience of a fact or situation.

However, in Colossians 3:10 knowledge means “precise and correct knowledge”. It is used in the New Testament of the knowledge of things ethical and divine. It is this type of knowledge that is needed today to navigate the challenges of our times.

Paul tells the church at Colosse to “put on the new man” who is renewed in knowledge according to the image of Him who created him. “New man” and “old man” were terms introduced by Paul to contrast the believer’s new versus old behaviors and lifestyle (Romans 6:6; Ephesians 2:15; 4:22-24; Colossians 3:9-11).

So why did Paul tell the church to put on the new man? Because the new man has access to the “precise and correct” knowledge needed for righteous living (living in right relations with God and with mankind). This knowledge is provided through the Holy Spirit living within the new man (John 16:13). This is where transformation takes place.

In addition, this new man’s knowledge is further strengthened as a result of being created in the image of God. In Christ we possess God’s divine nature—His DNA. DNA (deoxyribonucleic acid) is a self-replicating material present in nearly all living organisms. It is the unique string of characteristics that make us who we are—physically and mentally. In Christ, we have been given a new spiritual DNA that equips us for the purpose and plan God has created for our lives.

True Knowledge

In Christ, we not only have renewed knowledge but also “true” knowledge. Paul describes this in 2 Peter 1:2-4.

Grace and peace be multiplied to you in the knowledge of God and of Jesus our Lord, as His divine power has given to us all things that pertain to life and godliness, through the knowledge of Him who called us by glory and virtue, by which have been given to us exceedingly great and precious promises, that through these you may be partakers of the divine nature, having escaped the corruption that is in the world through lust.

Knowledge (of God) protects us against error and deception, regardless of its source. It helps us discern and use God’s truth to guide our life. True knowledge sharpens our spiritual eyes to see not only potential dangers but also the possibilities that God has in store for us.

Promise of a better year

If we want a better new year, we must be intentional. Our aim should not be wasted on things that never work. Our focus must continue to be on the Person who has the authority and power to “make all things work together for our good.” (Romans 8:28). That person is Almighty God (Psalm 97:1-2).

Our divine truth is this. Being in Christ and knowledge of God will provide us with everything we need to be successful not only this new year, but also all the way to glory. Let us diligently seek the Lord more this year than last. This is the best way to a better new year.

Advent/Christmas

A Better New Year’s Resolution, Part 1

December 30, 2025 ITWMinistries Leave a comment

It’s that time again

The Christmas holidays are winding down. Special parties and family celebrations will culminate with the ringing in of a new year. There is only one more thing to do. It’s time to make our New Year’s resolution.

Who created those things anyway? Whatever their origin, regardless of our success or our failure in their creation, resolutions are intended to set a better pattern for living our lives in the upcoming year. This may include new purpose that relate to our health, our finances, and even our relationships.

It is a time to reflect on what worked or what could have worked better. New Year’s resolutions give us an opportunity to put our best foot forward in the coming year. But this year, I’m taking a different approach.

This year, instead of being dependent on my resolution, I’m going to strengthen my connection with the One who can help me make more than a superficial change. I’m going to choose a better way (Phil. 3:8-10). I choose transformation that is only possible through Jesus Christ.

Why attempt to identify a “better way” when Jesus has provided us “the best way” (John 14:6). Through Christ we are new creatures indwelt by His Holy Spirit. The only thing we need to do is to embrace our identity. In Christ, we can do better everyday in the new year.

In search of a better way

The Book of Colossians records the letter from the Apostle Paul to the Church in Colosse. He was concerned with the reports he had received from a local evangelist, Epaphras, concerning the possible “encroaching heresy” threatening this predominately Gentile church. (Col. 1:21, 27; 2:13)

In their search to find the best way to live in their world, they were now considering a new religious system that combined elements from Greek speculation (Col. 2:4, 8-10), Jewish legalism (Col. 2:11-17), and Oriental mysticism (Col. 2:18-23).[1]

This threat to Christ’s church is still present even now. It is called syncretism.

Syncretism is the combining of different beliefs and various schools of thought. Syncretism involves the merging or assimilation of several mythologies or religions, thus asserting an underlying unity and allowing for an inclusive approach to other faiths.[2]

A better way or led astray?

As Christians, we must be careful to avoid societal pressures to combine Christianity with “other things”. To do so can subtly lead us away from the basic tenets of our faith. Seeking to be “socially and politically correct”, we might be led to compromise or minimize God’s truth.

The nation of Israel fell prey to this practice (1 and 2 Kings). This practice resulted in idolatry, disobedience to God, and weakening of their faith. Take a look around. Do we see a similar thing happening in our world today?

Are you ready to change?

In Colossians 3:5-9, Paul admonishes these young believers to “put off” their old man. The old man represented the person they use to be before coming to Christ. That old man walked according to the influences of the world and the weakness of their human flesh (1 John 2:15-16).

The 21^st century has mastered the art of influence. Media (social and otherwise) tells us how we are to think and act. We invite them into our homes and offices. They are the uninvited passenger in our cars as we drive here and there. Marketing bombards us with messages on who we should be. They create great dissatisfaction with what we have, how we look, and what we know. (That’s how they keep us spending money). Social messaging keeps us “in our current state” by telling us what we can or can’t do. They remind us of our weaknesses and our vulnerabilities. So much so that we are fearful to move without their validation.

Old “dead man” walking

“Whoever sows to please their flesh, from the flesh will reap destruction.” (Gal. 6:8a, NIV)

We must guard against the defiling touch of the world, of sin, and of the old self-life. We stand between two worlds, each solicits us: let us yield to the influences that pull us upward, and not to those that anchor us to this sinful and vain world. Our eternal blessedness has begun, let us walk in it. In Christ we profess to have put off the old man, i.e., the habits of our former life; now let us actually do so, in the power of the Holy Spirit.[3]

Even as Christians, we still tend to depend on our self-discipline, self-will, and self-motivation to live a sober, righteous, and godly life (Titus 2:11-14). Just like our New Year’s resolution. We try and try. But we usually fall off the wagon by Valentine’s Day. What we need is not a new syncretic way nor a more disciplined approach. We need transformation. We need to “put on the new man”.

[1] The Times of Colossians, The New Open Bible Study Edition.

[2] Wikipedia

[3] F.B. Meyers, Through the Bible Commentary, Colossians 3

Spiritual Renewal

Finding True Rest: A Biblical Perspective

December 2, 2025 ITWMinistries Leave a comment

The Biblical view of rest

Earlier in this series, we asked the question, “Do you need rest?” We examined the three (3) biblical rests God has provided for His Covenant people. Sabbath rest, Canaan rest, and Eternal rest.

We concluded that accessing these rests is possible through development of an intimate relationship with God. Our rest can be found in listening to His voice and obeying Him. We closed with Lawrence O. Richards’ explanation that Christians often struggle with learning how to enter God’s rest. God’s rest is a place of confidence and contentment that can only be found in relationship with Him.

The Scientific view of rest

In her Ted Talk, “The 7 Types of rest that every person needs,” Dr. Saundra Dalton-Smith, shares what is really needed for us to rest. My biggest take away was the fact that we often mistakenly view rest as sleep.

“We go through life thinking we’ve rested because we have gotten enough sleep — but in reality we are missing out on the other types of rest we desperately need. The result is a culture of high-achieving, high-producing, chronically tired and chronically burned-out individuals. We’re suffering from a rest deficit because we don’t understand the true power of rest. “

Dr. Smith concludes her study with the definition of spiritual rest. She describes it as feeling a “deep sense of belonging, love, acceptance, and purpose”. She recommends that to receive spiritual rest, one needs to “engage in SOMETHING GREATER THAN YOURSELF, ADD PRAYER, MEDITATION, OR COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT.”

For me, and believers in Christ, that “deep belonging, love, acceptance, and purpose” is found in Christ. Christ is the better rest.

A Better Rest

Paul states that in Christ, “we live, and move, and have our meaning” (Acts 17:28). This includes our time of rest. Even during our physical rest, we must not forget to maintain relationship with Jesus. It is in acknowledging the Lord’s presence, that our better rest begins.

Jesus invites the crowds in Matt. 11: 28-29 to “come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.” Jesus offers rest.

After the disciples had returned from their mission trip (Mark 6:7-13), Jesus instructs then to “come with me by yourselves to a quiet place and get some rest.” Jesus is rest.

“Alone time” with God can allow God to examine us. It can be a time of knowing God more deeply, a time of strengthening, a time of refreshment, a time of sharing our deepest concerns with God, and a time of simply being with the One who formed us and loves us beyond our understanding.[1]

Rest: How do we enter it?

The rest we need can only be found in relationship with Jesus. It is “relational rest”. This rest can be found in the practice of spiritual disciplines. Spiritual disciplines are not an end in themselves. Spiritual disciplines are intended to deepen our relationship with God.[2]

Prayer	Talking to God
Meditation	Listening to God
Solitude	Alone with God
Contemplation	Thinking about God
Worship	Glorifying God

I close with a formula on how to enter God’s rest. Feel free to develop your own. The main thing to remember is to keep Christ as the source of your rest.

R. Reflection. Daily examine where God has been at work. This will foster awareness of God’s presence.

E. Exchange. Trade-out Satan’s lies for God’s truths. This will increase your wisdom and discernment.

S. Solace. Find comfort and consolation in God’s presence. This will strengthen your confidence.

T. Transformation. Each day seek to be conformed to the image of Christ. This will please God.

[1] Got Questions, “What does the Bible say about the value of solitude?”

[2] Rev. Dr. Wallace S. Hartsfield, “A Prayer for Presence.”

Knowing God

Am I Compassionate?

September 30, 2025 ITWMinistries Leave a comment

Ask me a question…I’ll tell you no lie.

This series on compassion was inspired by a question someone asked me. “Do you think I’m compassionate?” My first thought was, “why are you asking me this question?” Had I bored them with sharing the rigors of my last six-months including the death of my only sister? Had they been overwhelmed with the traumatic events rehearsed continually on the evening news and social media?

I didn’t have an answer. However, I thought it admirable that they cared enough to ask the question.

Do you think I’m compassionate?

That’s a good question to ask especially in this age when we’re often told to “suck-it-up and keep it moving’. We daily are traumatized and stressed by events of our world. We are awakened each morning with updates of the war in at least 2-3 countries, at least two “natural disasters” (one international and one nationally), and let’s not forget the threats “seen and unseen” (Psalm 91:5-6). Perhaps these fears are the reason we emotionally “tune out” what’s happening to us in order to protect ourselves. Why do we “shut down”?

Recently published in the Journal of Experimental Psychology is this insight about why people resist experiencing compassion for others, despite it being a generally positive feeling.

More people are finding it increasingly difficult to engage with each other, and as people are overwhelmed with the amount of suffering right now due to the pandemic, it may make compassion particularly difficult.

The cost of caring

Without a doubt, showing compassion costs. The cost is expressed in both emotional commitment and physical engagement. The characters in the Parable of the Good Samaritan considered the cost. This would include their understanding of the situation which would determine their engagement. They would then consider the effort it would take to resolve the problem. A little or a great deal?

The priest “saw the traveler and moved to the other side.” The priest evaluated the situation. He probably thought the man was dead. What would he do with a dead man on the road? Bury him? Take him with him? He didn’t even know him. Too much work! He also knew that involvement with a dead person would make him ceremonially “unclean” (Numbers 9:7). The uncleanness would last for at least seven days, until he could be purified again. He wouldn’t be able to conduct his duties at the temple. He had to protect his job. Based on the effort and his understanding of the situation, he left the man on the road. Do his responses sound like ours when we see someone in need?

The Levite “came and looked”. He saw that the traveler wasn’t dead, so why didn’t he help? The text doesn’t say, and we choose not to speculate. Regardless, the result was the same as with the priest, the Levite “passed by the other side.”

What would we have done in this situation? Hindsight is 20/20. We know the back drop for the parable and how the story ends. But in 2025, when we are faced with pain and suffering, do we also “pass to the other side”? Do we need to understand all the details and effort required before we engage in others pain?

Compassion—a mental or spiritual challenge

Why was the response by the Samaritan different than the priest and the Levite? What was the principle Jesus was attempting to share with the lawyer (Luke 10:25-29) and also to us living in 2025? We are to show mercy and compassion, like the Samaritan.

The word compassion in the Luke 10 passage is used almost exclusively to describe Jesus’ response in the Gospel accounts. It is a verb (action word) showing the deepest level of compassion (Luke 7:13). It means to have the bowels yearn. When Jesus’ compassionate response was described in this way, the occasion was often the turning point in someone’s life (Mark 1:40-42; Matthew 9:33-38)

Called to be compassionate

While there are mental processes that we use to engage in compassion, we must focus our responses on that which God expects. God expects us to show compassion to those He places in our path and sphere of influence. Jesus expects us to act like the Samaritan and “show mercy” (Luke 10:37).

God calls each of us to have compassion for others. That call is more than an appeal for us to “feel pity for the needy”. It is a call to care enough to become involved. Like Jesus’ compassion, we are expected to take action that will set others’ lives on a fresh, new course.

Spiritual Guidance

Navigating Life with Truth and Spiritual Discernment

August 5, 2025 ITWMinistries Leave a comment

In search of truth

Can we agree that truth is important? But how do we handle the growth in mis-, dis-, and counter-information we receive daily? Because of these increases, individuals, communities and institutions have become more strategic in response to these truth crushers.

These strategies include educational campaigns that recognize unreliable sources and the creation of fact-checking organizations. Social media companies and technology platforms have implemented partnerships that identify misleading and harmful content.

Individual strategies include unfollowing or blocking habitual spreaders of falsehood, fact-checking, and withdrawing from platforms with disinformation. Despite all these efforts, unfortunately, people tend to trust misinformation that aligns with their beliefs.

If truth is ultimately found, how do we use it, especially in our faith walk? Truth is best used in practicing spiritual discernment.

What is spiritual discernment?

Discernment involves the process of keen insight and good judgment. People express discernment about things that are important to them. For example, if you are watching your weight, you will be very discerning about the food you select and its preparation. If you need legal advice, you will exercise great discernment in the selection of the best lawyer to assist you. In similar manner, spiritual discernment helps believers “judge well”.

Spiritual discernment encompasses separating divine truth from error. This is a difficult task as we are torn between the world’s influence, our human flesh, and Satan’s deception. First Thessalonians 5:21 advises us to “Test all things; hold fast to what is good.” The world has told us there is no such thing as “good”—no standard of right or wrong; it is all relative, based on each person’s unique situation.

Spiritual discernment, however, depends on truth. It is the God-given ability to perceive, understand, and judge what is true, right, and aligned with God’s will. It does not rely on personal feelings, cultural trends, or partial knowledge. Spiritual discernment without truth leads to confusion, error, and deception (Hebrews 5:14)

Our source of spiritual discernment

First and foremost, as believers, we accept God’s Word as the ultimate source of truth. It is our spiritual “warning system” for detecting error. It is the perfect standard by which we distinguish right from wrong. Spiritual discernment is sharpened through deep knowledge of Scripture. Without truth from the Word, spiritual discernment becomes subjective or distorted.

- For the word of God is living and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart. (Hebrews 4:12)

- The entirety of Your word is truth, And every one of Your righteous judgments endures forever. (Psalm 119:160)

Secondarily, The Holy Spirit, living within us, is the Truth Discerner, who will lead us into all truth. He knows the mind of God and will direct us based on God’s purpose and plan for our life.

- But when he, the Spirit of truth, comes, he will guide you into all truth. He will not speak on his own; He will speak only what He hears, and He will tell you what is yet to come. (John 16:13)

- So, I say, live by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the sinful nature. (Galatians 5:16)

Spiritual discernment is a Spirit-empowered ability to apply truth to every life situation and decision we make.

A Closing Warning

The Apostle Paul warned Timothy in 67 C.E. that the time would come “when people will not tolerate sound doctrine and accurate instruction [that challenges them with God’s truth]; but wanting to have their ears tickled [with something pleasing], they will accumulate for themselves [many] teachers [one after another, chosen] to satisfy their own desires and to support the errors they hold, and will turn their ears away from the truth and will wander off into myths and man-made fictions [and will accept the unacceptable].” (2 Timothy 4:3-4, Amplified)

God has given us His Word and His Spirit to guide us in all wisdom and knowledge, that we may live righteous and holy lives (2 Peter 1:3-4). If we seek only to be “healthy, wealthy, and wise”, we will not be spiritually discerning. It is our responsibility as children of light (Ephesians 5:8) and defenders of truth (1 Peter 3:15) to embrace and cultivate spiritual discernment. Spiritual discernment is critical for navigating 21^st century living.

Spiritual Endurance

The Spirit of Truth for the 21st Century

July 22, 2025 ITWMinistries

Truth’s Beginning

In our family, the truth was highly valued. It was critical to raising children and instilling one of the most important measurement of one’s character.

We were told to tell the truth even if it meant punishment. Why? Because we truly believed that a lie, which would ultimately be discovered, carried grave consequences. Guess what? Lies still carry grave consequences especially in the 21st century when truth is not valued.

Truth Warning

John F. Kennedy, the thirty-fifth President of the USA, shared the following observation about truth.

The great enemy of the truth is very often not the lie — deliberate, contrived, and dishonest — but the myth — persistent, persuasive, and unrealistic.

What are the myths we are embracing today? In our personal lives, in our families, in our nation. What are the persistent, persuasive, and unrealistic myths we are “choosing” to include in our belief systems and personal views?

The Apostle Paul warned his young minister Timothy of the dangers that await him as new converts would “turn away their ears from the truth, and be turned unto fables” (2 Timothy 4:4).

Truth today is often packaged in many forms. Many are more speculation and creative editorializing, than substantive truth. Because of this trend, it is important that believers have a “real-time” reliable and trustworthy compass by which to navigate in this world. While our primary guide is the Word of God, as we discussed last week, God has also provided another source—the Holy Spirit, the Spirit of Truth.

The Source of Truth

Earlier we defined truth as that which agrees with reality. For the believer, our reality has been defined by what God has placed in His written Word.

For Jesus’ disciples, however, there was no written Word as they faced a hostile world without the presence of their Beloved Jesus (John 15:18-20). It was Jesus’ presence that gave them the courage to challenge the spiritual tyranny of the religious leaders. They would need God’s truth as they turned their focus to witnessing (Acts 1:8), baptizing and teaching (Matt. 28:19-20).

In John 14:16-16, Jesus promises to send the Spirit of Truth that would abide with them forever. It was the Holy Spirit Who would now come to live within them. We generally think of the Holy Spirit in terms of gifting or empowering believers to accomplish the purposes and ministries of Christ. However, the attribute Jesus chose to share with His disciples in John’s text focused on “truth”. It would be the Spirit of Truth that would assist the disciples as they were persecuted for their belief in Jesus Christ.

The Spirit of Truth-Yesterday, Today, and Forever

The Spirit of Truth would assist the disciples in accomplishing the “greater works” promised by Jesus (John 14:12). Jesus was indeed “the Way, the Truth, and the Life”. After Jesus’ departure, the ministry of truth would continue because the Spirit of Truth.

Like the disciples of the first century, believers in the 21^st century have the assistance of the Spirit of Truth to assist them especially in exposing the spirit of error. The spirit of error is seen in the morays and life styles of the world. For unbelievers, it leads them to be deceived and disobedient to the purposes of God in their life (Ep. 2:2).

For the believer, the spirit of error tempts them to doubt God truth and draw them away from the leading of the Holy Spirit (2 Thess. 2:15). The Spirit of Truth stands ready to silence the lies, myths and fables of the 21^st century. Our confidence lies in the promise, power, and presence of the Spirit of Truth. He is our True Compass as we search for truth.

Spiritual Endurance

Can We Handle 21st Century Truth?

July 15, 2025 ITWMinistries

“…and you will know the truth and the truth will set you free.”

John 8: 31-32 (NRSV)

Can we handle the truth?

Especially when that truth is measured against the authority of Scripture and the lordship of Jesus Christ. To walk in biblical truth while living in a postmodern world will be a major challenge for believers as we attempt to navigate 21st century living.

But can we handle it? Behind the news bytes and sound bits, there is a deliberate movement underway to redefine what truth is and what it isn’t. This is nothing new. This inclination to “repackage” the truth comes directly from the father of lies, Satan himself (John 8:44). We must be careful how we define truth, or we too may fall prey to the subtlety of deception. “Did God really say you must not eat any of the fruit in the garden?” (Genesis 3:1)

What is truth?

Truth is defined as that which agrees with reality. It is typically ascribed to things that aim to represent reality or otherwise correspond to it, such as beliefs, propositions, and declarative sentences.

True statements are usually held to be the opposite of false statements. The concept of truth is discussed and debated in various contexts, including philosophy, art, theology, law, and science. Most human activities depend upon the concept, where its nature as a concept is assumed rather than being a subject of discussion, including journalism and everyday life. In metaphysics and philosophy of language, the correspondence theory of truth states that the truth or falsity of a statement is determined only by how it relates to the world and whether it accurately describes (i.e., corresponds with) that world.[1]

Truth redefined

In the 21st century there is little understanding or agreement as to what truth really is. As defined in the postmodern world, absolute truth does not exist. Supporters of this worldview deny long-held beliefs and conventions. They maintain that all viewpoints are equally valid. Other factors also have affected our view of truth.

Political posturing and social jockeying have taken the pursuit of truth to new levels. Individuals and organizations utilize misinformation (the unintended sharing of false information) and disinformation (the deliberate creation and sharing of information known to be false) to influence advocacy and individual agendas. Even institutions once deemed guardians of truth—media, government, business, and non-governmental organizations—are now viewed suspiciously.[2]

In decades past, we depended on the media to communicate the “truth” regarding specific issues of the day. Newspapers, magazine publications and newscasters were committed to operating at the highest ethical standards. Truth is now shaped by social media and image consultants—by the number of “likes”, “retweets” and “followers” one can amass.

We once trusted our leaders, civic or religious, to offer truth. But over time confidence has eroded. Truth is shaped or “redesigned” along political lines, personal agendas, and social bias. This leaves us still “in search for truth”.

The Believer’s Truth

For we believers, our truth and reality are grounded in God. That reality began in the Garden of Eden. Created in God’s image, our purpose and destiny are tied to our identity in Him through Christ (Colossians 3:3). This reality was sidetracked by sin and replaced with Satan’s counterfeit that placed self on the throne where only Christ was to be seated and exalted.

Because of Jesus’ atoning work on the Cross, we affirm our faith and acknowledge that we have died to our old sin nature (Galatians 5:24) and walk in newness of life (Romans 6:4). We no longer follow the worldview. Its influence was negated by the Blood. Our meaning and reality are now realigned with God (2 Corinthians 5:15). “For in Him we live and move and have our being” (Acts 17:28).

More than ever before, believers must connect with the only True Source of Truth, Jesus Christ, our Lord and Savior (John 14:6). God’s Word and the Spirit of Truth stand ready to silence the lies, myths and fables we might hear (2 Timothy 4:3-4). God is the only source of truth for 21^st century living. Can we handle that truth?

[1] Wikipedia

[2] The 2020 Edelman Trust Barometer Global Report

Spiritual Maturity

Livin’ my Best Life: Best Life Recapitulated

June 24, 2025 ITWMinistries Leave a comment

Recapitulated—What have we learned?

Recapitulate means to summarize and state again the main point.

These past few weeks we’ve been attempting to define what “best life” looks like. We began by evaluating best life from a worldview. In fairness to this overall process, we also considered the biblical perspective. Before moving forward, a decision was needed as to which view believers were to follow.

It was at this point that a decision was needed. Believers must draw a spiritual dividing line in order to insure that the influence of the flesh and the world cannot remove our distinctive difference.

Using the Bible as the final authority on what we embrace and follow in our lives, believers are to follow God’s definition of best life based on our new life and new allegiance to God (2 Cor. 5:15-17). We are also to focus on eternal things and “life outcomes” that are god-honoring.

Time to Decide

Based on what we have learned, there are two questions that may help us finalize our description of best life.

The first question was asked and answered last week: “What does God say about best life?”

The second question is this. Of the two views (worldview and biblical view), which one is more likely to satisfy the longing that we may have? Self-directed or Christ-directed?

If we reach self-actualization in Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs, are we guaranteed that we will be content and fulfilled? Those we see as “having it all” still deal with dissatisfaction in their life. Self-actualization may not give all it promises as evidenced by the incidents of depression, substance abuse, and suicide among great artists, celebrities, and business moguls.

For those of us who identified with the things people wanted in life, the question is the same. Does possession of any or all those items on the “wish list” guarantee contentment? Remember there was only one tangible item on the list—money. The rest were intangibles—unable to be touched or grasped but understood or felt in the heart.

Let’s find a Best Life SME (Subject Matter Expert)

At this point, what might be helpful would be to interview someone who had not only pursued best life but also attained it. They had reached self-actualization and the one tangible (money) on the “10 Most Wanted” list.

In addition, this person should be familiar with “spiritual” options. Let me introduce our special SME, King Solomon, the king of the United Kingdom of Israel.

Solomon was a fabulously wealthy and sensible king of the United Kingdom of Israel who succeeded his father, King David. Solomon was the biblical king most famous for his wisdom. God granted Solomon not only wisdom but also great wealth and fame because he did not ask for self-serving rewards. (1 Kings 3:7-14).

Solomon authored the book of Ecclesiastes, in which, he built the case to show that the pursuits of this world are vanity. “Vanity of vanities, all is vanity” (Ecc. 1:2). Vanity in this context is the quality of being worthless or futile. Ecclesiastes is located with the other wisdom literature of the Old Testament.

Chapter after chapter, Solomon (“The Preacher” as he identifies himself) presents the case that the vanities of this world are insufficient to make us happy. He contrasts the vileness of sin, and its certain tendency to make us miserable, with the wisdom of being religious (godly and god-honoring). Our well-being and satisfaction are only possible through our allegiance to God and our love for man.

In closing, Solomon, by way of exhortation, directs his readers (and us 21^st century believers) to remember our Creator, to fear Him, and to keep His commandments. Solomon gives no recommendation to pursue best life.

Conclusion

God alone can satisfy our hierarchy of needs—basic, psychological, and self-fulfilling. God is our Jehovah-Jireh (Gen. 22:14). Our intangible desires are readily available through God’s Spirit (Gal. 5: 22-23).

King Solomon, the Apostle Paul, and more importantly, Jesus have given us the essence of what best life looks like. It is not a list of “dos and don’ts” but a standard of life.

Livin’ our best life is…

- a life style that acknowledges the reality of God. God is the Creator and Source of all life who has been uniquely made known to us through His Son Jesus Christ. We live confidently in the reality of His presence, His power, and His provision. (Acts 17:28)

- a life choice that recognizes the authority of God in our life. God’s will and purpose for our lives is revealed in His Word and through the indwelling of the Holy Spirit. We choose to trust in the goodness and greatness of God to direct our life’s journey. (Gal. 2:20)

- a life vocation that commits to the purpose God has chosen for us. We are persuaded that the Kingdom of God has arrived in the coming of Jesus Christ and is imminent in Jesus’ return. We, therefore, focus our energies on doing those things that honors and glorifies God. (Phil. 3:12-14)

Livin’ our best life can only be realized through a relationship with God and in Christ Jesus. Through this relationship, we have all things that pertain to life and godliness (2 Pet. 1:3-4) and blessings that exceed our expectations (Ep. 1: 3-14). Therefore, in Christ, we are livin’ our best life.

Spiritual Maturity

Livin’ my Best Life: The Answer for Best Life

June 17, 2025 ITWMinistries Leave a comment

Options for best life

The 21st century offers many options for our lives. That is why it is important that we, as believers, discern what voice we “actively” listen to. This is especially true when it comes to determining what living our best life should look like.

In our series, we determined that some individuals make their choice based on who they are and what’s important to them. Last week we attempted to identify what best life looks like. We determined that the essence of best life can be based on our human needs and things we most desire.

So, what is the answer for best life! I concluded last week’s teaching with a statement that will help to set the context for best life for believers in the 21^st century. Which choice most accurately represents “best life for us”? For believers, we are to go to The Source, Who is to be the final authority on everything we do (or it should be). That authority is God and His Word. It is now time to consider the number one question, “what does God say about best life.”

The Dividing Line

The believer’s life is to look vastly different from the world we live in. We are to seriously demonstrate and witness to our new life in Christ. That being the case, our best life should reflect a life lived for Christ.

The Barna Institute reports the increasing difficulty in distinguishing believers from the unsaved world. Unfortunately, we are not seen as living any differently than our unsaved family, friends, and acquaintances. We have basically lost our saltiness and our light (Matt. 5:13-16).

This lack of distinction could be attributed to a number of factors including fear of abuse, lack of spiritual discipling, or spiritual immaturity. Some believers have even walked away from the traditional Church because of personal wounding or disillusionment with leadership. What the future Church looks like, especially after COVID-19, is yet to be determined.

However, the imperfect nature of the Church does not negate the expectation that God has for His people. We are to continually examine ourselves to insure we are living a life of faith under the direction of Jesus’ Holy Spirit (2 Pet. 1:10). What does best life look like for believers?

Caution

Jesus shared what best life “was not” in the Sermon on the Mount Discourse. He gives a command that will provide us a framework for identifying what best life looks like. Jesus begins with his first instruction (Matt. 6:19-21).

Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy and where thieves break in and steal; but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.

Jesus closes with this requirement (Matt. 6:33).

But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you.

The verb “seek” is an imperative in the Greek language. An imperative expresses a command to the hearer to perform a certain action by the order and authority of the one commanding. What Jesus gives is not a casual invitation but an absolute command requiring full obedience. “All these things” lovingly includes not only our needs but also the desires of our heart (Ps. 37:4).

Jesus knows we have needs. It is His desire that we not worry nor become preoccupied with possession of things. By faith we know that we will be cared for. Focusing on Christ lessens our anxieties as we attempt to live during these uncertain times (Phil. 4:6-7).

Moving to best life

The Apostle Paul further clarified Jesus’ teaching to the church at Colosse. He pointed them to how to find best life (Col. 3:1-2).

If then you were raised with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ is, sitting at the right hand of God. Set your mind on things above, not on things on the earth.

Seek and set are also verbs that are in the imperative. As with Jesus’ use in Matthew, it expresses a command to the hearer to perform a certain action. It is not an invitation. Both verbs are in the present tense which means it is a fact or reality occurring in actual time. Therefore, we are commanded to keep seeking and keep setting our attention. Where?

Notice the place where the “things and the affections” are found. They are not on this earth but in heaven. This directs our attention to those things that have eternal value and heavenly consequences. Unfortunately, 21st century technology has created vehicles to capture the lusts of our flesh, our eye, and the pride of life (1 John 2:15-17). We are continually bombarded with marketing messages and media that focus our attention on what we don’t have versus what is of greater value to the kingdom of God.

In the remainder of Colossians 3, Paul maps out the essence of best life for Christians. Best life for Christians is life lived in Coram Deo. Coram Deo summarizes the idea that Christian living is lived in the presence of, under the authority of, to the honor and glory of God.

We will conclude this study next week as we decide what best life looks like for each of us.

Spiritual Maturity

Livin’ my Best Life: What is best for me?

June 10, 2025 ITWMinistries Leave a comment

What’s best life for me?

In this series, we’ve seen what best life looks like for a variety of people. It is evident, at this point, that best life looks differently to others based on who they are and what is important to them.

For some, best life means the ability to “give back” to the world. For others it’s about being authentic and true to their beliefs. And to many, it is simply a whimsical phrase similar to that used by the meerkat, Timon in Lion King: “Hakuna Matata” or “no worries”.

We’ve examined the views of others in hopes that it will assist us as we attempt to formulate what best life looks like for each of us. Now it’s time to begin forming our own definition.

What are we looking for?

I think we can all agree that best life is purely subjective. Because of that, it is difficult and would be presumptuous for me to define best life for individuals. Instead, I’d like to offer a way to begin to capture the essence of best life.

The essence of best life could be summarized using two perspectives: (1) what are people’s basic needs, and (2) what are the things people want in life but can’t seem to get? In answering these questions, we might begin to decide what our best life might look like.

What do we need?

What are people’s basic needs? Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs is used to study how humans are motivated by defining their basic needs. Maslow used the terms “physiological”, “safety”, “belonging and love”, “social needs” or “esteem”, and “self-actualization” to describe the pattern through which human motivations generally move.

Perhaps best life includes those things that address people’s needs. Best life for a homeless person would be found in the physiological category. Food security, clean water, and shelter would be as good as it gets. For the person experiencing isolation due to any number of factors, being accepted and belonging is the best life they could imagine.

What do we want?

What are the things people want in life but can’t seem to get? The Huffington Post asked that question and the answer resulted in ten items. The key question this survey probed was this: “If you could say in one word what you want more of in life, what would that be?”

Happiness
Money
Freedom
Peace
Joy
Balance
Fulfillment
Confidence
Stability
Passion

In review of this list, it is surprising to note that of the ten items, there is only one that is tangible. The remaining nine are intangible. Something intangible can’t be touched physically, but most of the time it is understandable or even felt in the heart. In accounting, an intangible asset is something that provides long-term benefit.

It is important to know that this survey was completed prior to the COVID pandemic. However, I’m sure the answers are still very relevant today. Please note what people see as the “biggest challenge” to getting what they want. Perhaps these “unmet needs” could be added to the list that may represent best life.

Basic needs or intangible wants? Which most accurately represents “best life”? Especially for me. To this point, our examination has considered the world’s view of best life. It’s now time to consider what God has to say.