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Praise the Lordpraisethelord
2025-12-08

Guided by His Light (Christian Music) = Just dropped a spirit-filled song 🙌 for Jesus! - - youtube.com/watch?v=

Praise the Lordpraisethelord
2025-12-08

Guided by His Light (Christian Music) = Worship the Lord đŸŽŒ with this new Christian release! - - youtube.com/watch?v=jTO3ZXqXEwk

Intentional Faithmhoggin@pastorhogg.net
2025-12-03

Following Jesus Should Cost You Something

As the Day Begins

Meditation

Matthew 10:24–42 is one of the Lord’s most sobering and clarifying teachings on discipleship. Jesus removes all illusions that following Him is easy or comfortable. Instead, He invites us into a relationship that is deeper, richer, and far more demanding than casual religion or cultural Christianity. In these verses, Jesus tells His disciples—and tells us—that we will not be above Him in this world. If He was rejected, misunderstood, and opposed, those who follow Him should expect the same. This is not punishment; it is identification. To walk with Christ is to share in His life, His mission, and at times His sufferings.

Yet this passage is not ultimately about hardship. It is about allegiance. Jesus presses into the question that sits beneath every spiritual journey: Who truly directs your life—Jesus or you? Salvation is free; discipleship costs everything. Salvation is a gift; following Jesus is a daily decision. When we trust Him for salvation, we receive forgiveness and reconciliation with God—a gift we could never earn. But the moment salvation takes root, a new question rises: Now that I belong to Christ, will I let Christ lead? Matthew 10 reminds us that the Christian life is not measured by pew attendance but by surrender—an internal yielding of our preferences, our comfort, and our self-protection in order to follow the One who gave everything for us.

Jesus’ honesty in this passage is not meant to discourage but to liberate. He tells us ahead of time that following Him will stretch us, challenge us, and sometimes bring us into conflict with the world’s values. But this call to costly discipleship is always grounded in His goodness. Jesus assures us that even the smallest sparrow does not fall outside the Father’s care—and we are worth far more than many sparrows. When discipleship is difficult, His eye remains upon us. When obedience is costly, His presence surrounds us. When surrender feels frightening, His wisdom steadies our steps.

At the heart of Matthew 10 is a beautiful paradox: when we lose our life for Jesus’ sake, we discover life as it was meant to be lived. Those who cling to control often live anxious, restless lives. But those who entrust themselves fully to Christ find peace deeper than circumstances, joy that suffering cannot steal, and purpose larger than anything the world can offer. Jesus is not asking us to give up anything good; He is inviting us to release the things that keep us from the best. Your words, your attitudes, your priorities, and the choices you make today will all reflect who truly governs your life. As the day begins, choose the path that leads to life—choose to follow Jesus wherever He leads.

 

Triune Prayer

Heavenly Father,
As I enter this new day, I come to You with gratitude that You have called me into a relationship that is both secure and stretching. Father, You know the places in my heart where I hesitate, where fear still whispers, and where self-will resists surrender. I ask You this morning to search me with Your gentle wisdom. Lead me to trust not only in Your salvation but also in Your leadership. Remind me that Your will is always rooted in love, and that following You—even when it costs me something—brings me into the life You designed for me. Father, steady my steps today and anchor my identity in Your faithful care.

Lord Jesus,
You are the One who calls me to follow, not with empty promises, but with truth that challenges and transforms. Teach me today to walk in Your footsteps—to love boldly, to speak truth graciously, and to embrace obedience even when it conflicts with my preferences. Jesus, You did not hide the cost of discipleship; instead, You showed us that the cross comes before the crown. Help me see the world through Your eyes so that I may choose faithfulness over comfort. When I am tempted to “coast,” remind me that You did not save me for a passive life but for a vibrant, surrendered journey with You.

Holy Spirit,
You are the strength I cannot summon on my own. I open my heart to Your presence today and ask You to shape my desires, direct my thoughts, and empower my choices. Spirit, cultivate in me the courage to follow Jesus without hesitation. When fear rises, whisper peace. When weariness comes, breathe renewed endurance. When my heart grows divided, draw me back into unity with the Father’s will and the Son’s example. Holy Spirit, guide my conversations, refine my attitudes, and help me reflect the character of Christ in everything I do today. I trust You to make my life a witness of Your transforming grace.

 

Thought for the Day

Discipleship begins with surrender; life begins when Christ leads. Today, choose to follow Jesus fully—not casually, not conveniently, but faithfully.

Thank you for beginning your day in God’s presence.

 

Suggested Article for Deeper Study

A helpful article on the cost and call of discipleship can be found here:
The Gospel Coalition – “What Does It Mean to Follow Jesus?”
https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/

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#christianSurrender #discipleship #followingJesus #matthew102442 #spiritualGrowth

Intentional Faithmhoggin@pastorhogg.net
2025-11-14

The Plow Hand

As the Day Ends

Scripture: “No one who puts a hand to the plow and looks back is fit for service in the kingdom of God.” — Luke 9:62

As the evening quiets the noise of the day, this verse invites us into reflection. The words of Jesus in Luke 9:62 are both challenging and comforting. They remind us that discipleship requires direction. It’s not about perfection, but focus—keeping our eyes on the Lord even when our hearts are tempted to look behind us. “No one who puts a hand to the plow and looks back,” He said, “is fit for service in the kingdom of God.” The image is vivid. A plowman who glances backward veers off course; his furrows wander, and the field becomes uneven. Likewise, a believer distracted by the past—by regret, nostalgia, or fear—risks losing sight of God’s present calling.

As this day closes, take a moment to examine where your gaze has been. Have your thoughts lingered on what could have been? Have you found yourself glancing over your shoulder at old wounds or former comforts? The Lord doesn’t condemn us for our human tendency to look back, but He does invite us to lift our eyes to what lies ahead. When Jesus spoke these words, He was on His way to Jerusalem—to the cross. His face, as Luke later writes, was “set toward” the path of obedience. He calls us to that same steadfastness. Our plow is whatever work He has entrusted to us today—our families, our service, our prayers, our faithfulness.

At day’s end, the fields of our life often show uneven lines—moments of distraction, seasons of fatigue. Yet God is merciful. He doesn’t discard the imperfect plowman; He strengthens his grip and redirects his gaze. The work of the Kingdom is not about flawless lines—it’s about faithful direction. When we trust the One guiding our steps, we find rest, even in the furrows. As you close your eyes tonight, remember: you are not called to fix the past, only to be faithful in the present. Keep your hand on the plow, and let the Lord steer your path toward peace.

 

Triune Prayer

To the Heavenly Father:
Father, thank You for the gift of this day and for the work You placed in my hands. I confess that at times my eyes have wandered—toward worry, toward regret, toward things beyond my control. But tonight, I choose to rest in Your faithfulness. You are the God who steadies my hand and straightens my path. I thank You for Your patience when I falter, and for Your grace that never runs dry. Teach me, even in the quiet of this evening, to trust the direction of Your will. I release the burdens I tried to carry alone and place them back into Your strong and gentle hands.

To the Son:
Lord Jesus, You set Your face toward the cross without turning back. You showed me what single-hearted obedience looks like, even when the road is hard. Forgive me for the times I’ve hesitated in following You—when comfort seemed easier than commitment, or fear whispered louder than faith. You never looked back, even when the path led through suffering. Help me walk that same way, eyes fixed on You. Thank You for walking beside me today, for forgiving my missteps, and for reminding me that Your yoke is easy and Your burden light. May I sleep tonight with gratitude for Your finished work, confident that tomorrow begins again in grace.

To the Holy Spirit:
Holy Spirit, gentle Guide and constant Companion, quiet my restless mind as the day ends. Teach me to listen more than I speak, to surrender more than I strive. I need Your wisdom to discern where my heart still looks backward—to old fears, unhealed memories, or misplaced affections. Fill me with renewed courage to keep moving forward in faith. Whisper truth where doubt has lingered. Replace anxiety with peace, distraction with devotion, and fatigue with rest. Overshadow my night with Your comfort and fill my dreams with reminders of Your presence. Let Your light lead me into the dawn of a new day lived with purpose and joy. Amen.

 

Thought for the Day

Faithfulness is not about how straight our lines appear—it’s about keeping our hands on the plow and our eyes on Christ. Don’t let yesterday’s regrets or tomorrow’s worries steal tonight’s peace. The God who called you this morning will keep you through the night and guide you again tomorrow.

Thank you for your service to the Lord’s work today and every day. May your rest be deep, your peace unshaken, and your heart renewed for the journey ahead.

 

For further reflection on following Jesus with focus and faith, read What Does It Mean to Put Your Hand to the Plow? on Crosswalk.com .

 

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#christianPerseverance #dailyReflection #discipleship #eveningDevotion #faithJourney #followingJesus #luke962 #restingInGod #spiritualFocus #spiritualRenewal

Intentional Faithmhoggin@pastorhogg.net
2025-11-13

The Freedom of Letting Go

Fully Available

DID YOU KNOW

Scripture Focus: Luke 9:57–62; James 1:6–8

Did You Know that Following Jesus May Lead You Away from Comfort but Closer to Joy?
When a man told Jesus, “I will follow You wherever You go,” the Lord answered with a sobering reality: “Foxes have holes and birds of the air have nests, but the Son of Man has no place to lay His head.” (Luke 9:57–58). Those words may sound discouraging at first, but they reveal one of the most liberating truths in all of Scripture. To follow Christ means discovering that joy doesn’t come from comfort—it comes from companionship. Jesus didn’t promise luxury, but He promised Himself. He offered not a life of ease, but a life of purpose.

We often equate peace with security—having enough money, a stable home, or predictable routines. But true peace comes from knowing the One who is unshakable. Jesus invites us to trade the illusion of safety for the reality of His presence. The disciples who followed Him left behind their nets, homes, and familiarity, yet found a treasure far greater than what they lost. Their joy wasn’t found in the road they traveled, but in the One who walked beside them. When we release our hold on comfort, God fills our hearts with contentment that no circumstance can take away.

Maybe today, comfort has become your quiet cage. Ask yourself—what would it look like to follow Jesus into deeper dependence? When you learn to trust Him beyond your routines, you’ll find that peace isn’t tied to where you rest your head, but to where your heart abides.

 

Did You Know that God’s Call Isn’t Bound by Human Expectations?
In Luke 9:59–60, Jesus said to a man, “Follow Me,” but the man hesitated, saying, “Lord, first let me go and bury my father.” Jesus replied, “Let the dead bury their own dead, but you go and proclaim the kingdom of God.” This statement sounds harsh until we understand the culture. The man’s father was likely still alive—he wanted to remain home until after his death, fulfilling social and family obligations. Jesus was revealing something radical: divine calling takes precedence over social custom.

So often, our lives are shaped by the expectations of others—family, friends, or society. We long to please, to fit in, to keep peace. But there comes a moment when following Jesus requires breaking free from the gravitational pull of approval. Christ doesn’t diminish the importance of family or duty, but He insists that obedience to God comes first. He calls us to reorder our loves, placing Him at the center. That’s not cold detachment—it’s spiritual freedom. When we make Him our first priority, we become better sons, daughters, parents, and friends because His love begins to define our relationships.

You may find yourself caught between loyalty to people and obedience to God. Ask the Spirit for courage to choose faithfulness over familiarity. God’s call may not always fit the world’s script, but it always leads to life. Following Christ means trusting that His timing, His path, and His approval are enough.

 

Did You Know that Following Jesus Sometimes Means Walking Away from What You Love Most?
Another man said, “I will follow You, Lord, but first let me go back and say good-bye to my family.” (Luke 9:61–62). Jesus replied, “No one who puts his hand to the plow and looks back is fit for service in the kingdom of God.” Christ saw the man’s hesitation for what it was—a divided heart. He knew that looking back often leads to staying back. It wasn’t that Jesus despised family; it was that He understood how quickly the familiar can drown out the call of faith.

Every disciple of Jesus eventually reaches a crossroads between affection and obedience. We may not all be asked to leave our homes or families, but we are all called to prioritize God’s mission above all else. That requires surrender—sometimes of relationships, sometimes of approval, and often of control. But when we release what tethers us to the past, we open our hands to receive what God has planned for our future.

Think about Peter leaving his nets, or Paul turning from prestige to persecution. Their sacrifices looked like loss at first, but in time they discovered that obedience to Christ is never a subtraction—it’s always an exchange. When you give up what hinders your calling, you gain what fulfills it. If your heart feels torn between what was and what could be, remember Jesus’ words. The one who sets his hand to the plow must keep his eyes on the harvest. Look forward—because what’s ahead with Christ is always greater than what’s behind.

 

Did You Know that Divided Loyalty Drains Spiritual Power?
James wrote, “The man who trusts God but with inward reservations cannot hope to receive anything from the Lord
 a man of divided loyalty will reveal instability at every turn.” (James 1:6–8, Phillips). Divided loyalty is one of the quietest thieves of spiritual growth. It’s not rebellion—it’s hesitation. It’s saying, “Yes, Lord,” with our lips but “Maybe later” with our hearts. And yet, God desires complete availability. When our focus is fractured, our faith falters.

Jesus illustrated this same truth when He said that no one who looks back is fit for service in God’s kingdom. The plowman must look ahead to keep his rows straight; the believer must keep eyes fixed on Christ to walk in strength. Distraction, compromise, or divided devotion can make us spiritually dizzy. The good news is that God doesn’t demand perfection—He desires direction. If our hearts are pointed toward Him, even imperfectly, His Spirit straightens our path.

In a world where multitasking is celebrated, God calls us to single-minded devotion. That doesn’t mean abandoning our responsibilities—it means filtering every part of life through His will. True peace comes not from having everything figured out, but from being fully aligned with God’s purpose. When you give Him your undivided heart, you’ll find stability even when life shifts beneath your feet.

 

God’s Word invites us to ask a simple but searching question: From His perspective, are we truly available to Him? Each of these “Did You Know” moments leads us to the same truth—availability begins with surrender. Jesus isn’t looking for perfect followers; He’s looking for willing ones. The ones who say yes even when comfort fades, yes even when expectations clash, yes even when love requires letting go.

So, what would it take to make yourself available to God today? Maybe it means loosening your grip on comfort, redefining success, or trusting Him with what you fear to lose. Whatever it is, remember—freedom is found not in holding on, but in letting go. When you release your life into His hands, you’ll find that His purpose is not only greater than yours—it’s better than you ever imagined.

 

For further encouragement on surrendering to God’s call, read Following Jesus Without Hesitation on The Gospel Coalition .

 

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#availabilityToGod #christianLiving2 #dailyFaith #discipleship #dividedLoyalty #followingJesus #luke95762 #spiritualDevotion #surrender #trustAndObedience

Intentional Faithmhoggin@pastorhogg.net
2025-11-13

Following Without Conditions

As the Day Begins

Scripture: “As they were walking along the road, a man said to him, ‘I will follow you wherever you go.’ Jesus replied, ‘Foxes have dens and birds have nests, but the Son of Man has no place to lay his head.’” — Luke 9:57–58 (NIV)

Devotional Meditation

There is a moment in every believer’s life when words of faith must turn into steps of obedience. The man who declared his willingness to follow Jesus “wherever You go” represents so many of us—eager, inspired, but often unaware of the cost. Jesus’ reply was not to discourage him but to awaken him. The Son of Man, our Savior, walked a road of self-denial and uncertainty, trusting not in earthly comfort but in the Father’s will. To follow Him is to accept that faith may lead us away from convenience and into dependence.

Jesus’ words remind us that discipleship is not a promise of ease but a calling to surrender. He contrasts His own homelessness with the security of creatures that nest and rest. The One through whom all things were made had “no place to lay His head.” This is not just a statement of poverty—it’s a declaration of purpose. Christ’s mission was not bound to one home or one people but extended to the ends of the earth. Following Him requires loosening our grip on stability and trusting the One who is Himself our dwelling place.

As the day begins, we face choices—whether to cling to comfort or to walk the way of Christ. True discipleship means embracing the unknown because we trust the known character of God. It means understanding that joy is not found in possessions or plans but in presence—His presence. Today, let us measure our willingness not by how far we walk but by how deeply we trust. Every sunrise is another invitation to say, “Lord, I will follow You, even when I don’t know the road ahead.”

 

Triune Prayer

To the Heavenly Father:
Father, thank You for waking me to another day of grace. As I step into the hours before me, teach me to hold lightly to the comforts of this world and tightly to Your promises. Let my faith not be dependent on what I see or control, but on Your steadfast care. You have called me to walk with You, not to understand every step but to trust every promise. Lead me through uncertainty with the assurance that You are my refuge and my true home.

To the Son:
Lord Jesus, You who walked without a place to rest Your head, remind me that following You means trusting beyond comfort. Forgive me when I seek convenience over commitment. You gave up heaven’s glory for earth’s dust so that I could be reconciled to God. Shape my heart after Yours, that I might follow without conditions. Let my steps reflect the compassion, courage, and sacrifice You displayed on the road to Calvary. When I am tempted to turn back, remind me that Your path—though narrow—leads to life everlasting.

To the Holy Spirit:
Spirit of Truth and Comfort, dwell richly within me today. When fear whispers and uncertainty clouds my thoughts, be the gentle voice that reminds me of Jesus’ faithfulness. Empower me to walk in obedience even when I cannot see the outcome. Fill me with a joy that transcends circumstance and a peace that defies understanding. Teach me to find rest not in a place, but in Your presence. Strengthen my resolve to follow wherever the Father leads, for You are the constant Companion of my soul. Amen.

 

Thought for the Day

Discipleship is not about where we walk—it’s about Who walks with us. Today, let your willingness to follow Jesus be greater than your need for comfort. Trust that wherever He leads, His presence will sustain you.

Thank you for beginning your day in God’s presence.

 

Further Reading

For a thoughtful reflection on what it means to follow Christ amid worldly distractions, read What Does It Mean to Follow Jesus? on The Gospel Coalition .

 

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#christianWalk #dailyDevotion #discipleship #faithJourney #followingJesus #luke95758 #obedience #spiritualDisciplines #surrender #trust

Intentional Faithmhoggin@pastorhogg.net
2025-11-13

Today’s Spiritual Disciplines

May the Lord bless you richly on your spiritual walk today. As you open your heart to His Word and presence, remember that the One who began a good work in you will be faithful to complete it. Each new morning carries His invitation to grow in grace, to listen closely, and to walk more fully in step with His Spirit. Take a deep breath, quiet your thoughts, and let this rhythm of devotion center your soul in His peace.

Today’s journey through Scripture leads us into moments of both reflection and renewal. Each devotion draws from the life and teachings of Jesus, offering insight for the heart and strength for the path ahead.

As the Day Begins – “Following Without Conditions” (Luke 9:57–58): Jesus reminds us that discipleship is not found in comfort but in companionship—true peace comes when we follow Him wherever He leads.

A Day in the Life of Jesus – “When Love Listens to Truth” (John 14:22–26): Christ promises the Holy Spirit as our Comforter and Guide, ensuring that we never walk alone in faith or forget His words of life.

Thru the Bible in a Year – “When the Church Came Alive” (Acts 1–3): The book of Acts calls us to rediscover the Spirit’s power that turned ordinary believers into bold witnesses of the risen Lord.

Afternoon Moment – “Joy That Stays, Peace That Holds” (Psalm 126:3): Gratitude transforms ordinary moments into worship; even amid labor and weariness, the heart can rest in the joy of God’s faithfulness.

Did You Know – “Fully Available: The Freedom of Letting Go” (Luke 9:57–62): Jesus calls us to live with open hands, surrendering comfort, expectation, and divided loyalties so that we can truly be available to Him.

As the Day Ends – “Keep Your Hand on the Plow” (Luke 9:62): Faithfulness is found in focus; when our eyes stay fixed on Christ, He steadies our steps and leads us home in peace.

As you move through these devotions, may your spirit find rest, your faith be renewed, and your heart overflow with gratitude for the God who never ceases to guide and transform.

Pastor Hogg

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#christianWalk #dailyDevotions #dailySpiritualGrowth #discipleship #faithJourney #followingJesus #holySpiritGuidance #prayerAndReflection #scriptureReflections #spiritualDisciplines

Intentional Faithmhoggin@pastorhogg.net
2025-11-10

The Only Way Home

A Day in the Life of Jesus
Scripture: John 14:1–7

There are moments in life when the ground seems to shift beneath our feet—when what once felt certain becomes clouded with uncertainty. The disciples experienced that kind of moment in the upper room. Jesus had spoken of His impending departure, and fear filled their hearts. Into that tension and trembling, He said words that have comforted generations: “Let not your heart be troubled. You believe in God, believe also in Me.”

That’s where this day in the life of Jesus begins—with an invitation to trust. It’s not a naïve optimism, but a grounded faith in the One who knows both our destination and the path that leads there. Jesus tells His disciples—and us—that He is preparing a place. In that promise, we glimpse the heart of God: not distant, but deeply personal. Heaven is not merely a location; it’s a home, a place of belonging in the Father’s presence.

When Thomas admits his confusion—“Lord, we don’t know where you’re going, so how can we know the way?”—he gives voice to our own doubts. And into that uncertainty, Jesus answers with absolute clarity: “I am the Way, the Truth, and the Life. No one comes to the Father except through Me.”

 

Jesus Is the Way

When Jesus calls Himself the Way, He is not pointing to a map but offering Himself as the route. In the ancient world, roads often bore the name of the ruler who built them; to walk that road was to travel under that ruler’s authority. In the same way, to follow Jesus is to walk under His lordship, guided by His example, sustained by His Spirit.

Many stumble at the exclusivity of His claim. “Only one way?” they ask. But Jesus’ declaration isn’t restrictive—it’s redemptive. It’s not about exclusion; it’s about invitation. The road may be narrow, but its reach is wide enough for the entire world. As C.S. Lewis once wrote, “If you are on the wrong road, progress means doing an about-turn and walking back to the right road.” Jesus is that right road—the one sure way home to the Father.

When He says “I am the Way,” He’s not offering a direction to follow but a relationship to enter. We don’t find God through systems or steps; we find Him through the Savior. By uniting our life to His—through faith, obedience, and love—we are drawn into communion with the Father Himself.

 

Jesus Is the Truth

Truth today often feels fragile, stretched thin by opinions and distorted by noise. Yet Jesus stands as truth personified—not a concept but a living reality. He embodies everything that God has revealed about Himself. As the writer of Hebrews says, “The Son is the radiance of God’s glory and the exact representation of His being” (Hebrews 1:3). When we look at Jesus, we see truth with a face.

That’s why He didn’t just teach truth—He was the truth. Every word He spoke, every act He performed, every tear He shed unveiled the character of God. To know Him is to know the Father’s heart. In a world that often asks Pilate’s question—“What is truth?”—Jesus answers not with an argument, but with His presence.

And because He is the Truth, we can trust Him even when life makes no sense. His promises are not wishful thinking; they are divine guarantees. Theologian N.T. Wright once said, “The point of Christianity isn’t that Jesus teaches a way to find God. It’s that Jesus Himself is the place where God and humanity meet.” That means every time we come to Christ in prayer, every time we cling to His Word, we’re stepping into truth itself—a truth that transforms rather than merely informs.

 

Jesus Is the Life

Finally, Jesus proclaims Himself as the Life. This isn’t just future hope—it’s present reality. Eternal life isn’t something that begins when we die; it begins when we believe. The Greek word zoe used here refers to the fullness of life—spiritual, eternal, and abundant.

When Jesus gives life, He gives Himself. He breathes resurrection into what is dead—our sin, our despair, our broken relationships—and restores what sin has stolen. As He told Martha in John 11:25, “I am the resurrection and the life; whoever believes in Me, though he die, yet shall he live.”

To walk with Jesus is to experience life that cannot be quenched by death. It’s the kind of life that renews us from the inside out, shaping our desires, our priorities, and our purpose. Every act of love, every moment of surrender, every prayer whispered in faith becomes a participation in His divine life.

 

The Way Home

At the heart of this passage lies a simple truth: Jesus doesn’t just show us the way—He is the way. He doesn’t merely speak truth—He is the truth. He doesn’t simply give life—He is life. When we hold on to Him, we are already on the road to the Father.

I often think of Jesus’ words here as a doorway. Every time we trust Him, we walk through that door again—leaving fear behind, stepping into peace, and finding rest in His presence. The doorway is open, and the invitation is still the same: “Come, follow Me.”

So, when your heart feels troubled—when the future seems uncertain—remember this: You are not walking alone. The same Savior who spoke peace to the disciples’ anxious hearts speaks to yours today. His path is secure, His truth unchanging, His life everlasting. Trust Him, follow Him, and one day, when all is ready, He will come and bring you home.

No matter who you are, where you were born or the course of your life, all shall pass before the Savior and final Judge. Jesus excludes no one nor does He include everyone. He alone shall decide your eternal fate. The Good News always has been that by kneeling before that authority and receiving His sacrifice as your redemption, His decision is already made and you have no need to fear.

 

May the Way guide your steps today.
May the Truth anchor your heart in love.
May the Life fill you with courage and joy.
And may you rest in the assurance that the One who began the journey will finish it in His perfect time.

 

Suggested Resource:
For further reflection on John 14:6 and the exclusivity of Christ’s claim, see The Gospel Coalition’s article on “Jesus as the Way, the Truth, and the Life.”

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#ChristianDiscipleship #dailySpiritualDiscipline #eternalLife #faithJourney #followingJesus #JesusTheWayTheTruthAndTheLife #John146Devotion #trustInChrist

Intentional Faithmhoggin@pastorhogg.net
2025-11-09

When Love Is Tested

A Day in the Life of Jesus

Scripture: John 13:31–38 (also Luke 22:31–38)

There’s a quiet heaviness in the upper room after Judas slips out into the night. The air must have been tense—uncertainty lingering like a shadow over candlelight. Jesus, fully aware of what awaits Him, begins to speak words that echo through time: “My time has come; the glory of God will soon surround me.” He isn’t speaking about earthly honor or recognition but of divine purpose revealed through the agony of the cross. Even in betrayal and impending suffering, Jesus sees glory—not because the pain is good, but because the outcome will be holy.

He calls the disciples “dear children”—a term full of tenderness and finality. “How brief are these moments,” He says. Every syllable is filled with compassion for those who still don’t understand what’s unfolding. Then He offers what He calls a new commandment: “Love each other just as much as I have loved you.”

This commandment is both simple and staggering. Love was not new; it’s woven into the Torah (Leviticus 19:18). But the measure of love was new. “As I have loved you”—that’s the difference. Jesus isn’t just telling them to be kind; He’s inviting them to love with the same self-giving depth that would soon take Him to Calvary. His love is not sentimental—it’s sacrificial. It costs something. It risks rejection. It gives without expecting return.

 

The Conversation That Revealed the Heart

Peter, impulsive and loyal, steps forward: “Lord, I am ready to die for You.” There’s sincerity in his voice; he means it. But Jesus knows the weakness that hides within good intentions. “Die for me? Before the rooster crows, you will deny Me three times.”

It’s a sobering moment. Peter’s confidence melts under the weight of Jesus’ foresight. Yet even here, Jesus isn’t condemning him—He’s preparing him. He’s saying, You will fail, but your failure will not define you. Later, on another shore, after the resurrection, Jesus will restore Peter with the same words that first called him: “Follow Me.”

We see ourselves in Peter, don’t we? We, too, pledge loyalty when faith feels safe and circumstances are bright. But under pressure—when following Christ costs us reputation, comfort, or control—we falter. Still, Jesus loves us through those denials. He calls us back, reminding us that grace is not just for the innocent but for the inconsistent.

 

Loving as Jesus Loved

The Gospel’s call is not simply to believe in Jesus but to love as Jesus loved. This kind of love is not theoretical; it manifests in small, often unnoticed acts of compassion. The article captures this beautifully:

“We love others as Jesus loves us—by helping when it’s not convenient, by giving when it hurts, by devoting energy to others’ welfare rather than our own, by absorbing hurts without complaining or fighting back.”

That’s a love the world can’t explain. It doesn’t make sense unless it flows from a supernatural source. Jesus modeled it perfectly—washing feet when He knew those same feet would soon run from Him, serving a meal to the one who would betray Him, praying for those who would nail Him to a cross.

John Stott once wrote, “The essence of love is self-sacrifice; the essence of sin is self-centeredness.” In that single contrast, we see why Christian love must be different. It refuses to retaliate, refuses to withdraw, refuses to give up on those who disappoint us. To love like Christ is to live cruciform—shaped by the cross.

 

The Challenge and the Cost

This kind of love is difficult. It requires dying to self daily, choosing forgiveness over bitterness, service over status. It’s easier to admire Jesus’ example than to imitate it. But love is not optional for the disciple; it is the defining mark of our identity. Jesus said, “By this everyone will know that you are My disciples, if you love one another.”

When believers love this way, the Church becomes a living testimony. The watching world sees something inexplicable—a unity that outlasts disagreement, a grace that outshines offense, a joy that endures suffering. The early Church grew not because of political influence or cultural power, but because pagans marveled at the way Christians cared for one another. “See how they love each other,” Tertullian recorded the Romans saying.

In today’s fractured world, this is still our most credible witness. Love, especially costly love, is the apologetic of the Kingdom.

 

Walking Through the Lesson Personally

As I read this passage, I find myself standing beside Peter, promising faithfulness yet fearing failure. I hear Jesus’ words and sense His compassion—He knows me, flaws and all, yet still calls me to love like Him. That realization humbles me. It also frees me. My discipleship is not measured by perfection but by participation in His love.

So, I ask myself: How can I love like Jesus today? Perhaps it means offering patience to someone who’s difficult to work with. Perhaps it’s reaching out to a friend who’s hurting, or forgiving a wound I’ve carried too long. Real love always has a cost—it takes time, humility, and vulnerability. But it also brings a holy reward: the unmistakable sense that Christ is living His life through me.

As we walk this day with Him, remember: Jesus did not just teach about love; He embodied it. Every word, every touch, every tear shed over Jerusalem was love in motion. When He said, “As I have loved you,” He was revealing the pattern for every believer’s life.

 

May the Lord teach you today to love as He loves—freely, sacrificially, and without condition. May you see in every difficult encounter a chance to display the glory of His compassion. And when your strength feels small, may His Spirit remind you that divine love flows best through surrendered hearts.

Walk gently through this day, remembering: you are loved beyond measure, and you are called to reflect that love to a world desperate to see Jesus through you.

 

For deeper reflection on Christian love and discipleship, visit The Gospel Coalition and read their articles on Christlike Love and the Life of the Church.

FEEL FREE TO COMMENT SHARE SUBSCRIBE

 

#ChristianDiscipleship #followingJesus #loveOneAnother #PeterSDenial #sacrificialLove

Intentional Faithmhoggin@pastorhogg.net
2025-11-07

The Freedom of Letting Go

DID YOU KNOW

Did You Know that Real Strength Begins with Turning the Other Cheek?

When Jesus said, “If someone strikes you on the right cheek, turn to him the other also” (Matthew 5:39), He wasn’t inviting weakness—He was revealing a deeper kind of strength. In the culture of His day, a slap across the right cheek was more than physical aggression; it was an insult to dignity, an attempt to shame. By turning the other cheek, a person refused to play the game of vengeance and pride. Jesus was not commanding His followers to be doormats but teaching them how to stand above the cycle of hate. When we refuse to retaliate, we claim the freedom of peace that anger can never provide. It is an act of holy defiance against evil, saying, “You cannot make me like you.”

What’s most inspiring about this teaching is that Jesus lived it. When He was struck during His trial, mocked by soldiers, and nailed to a cross, He did not lash out. Instead, He prayed, “Father, forgive them.” In that moment, He showed the world that love, not retaliation, has the last word. Turning the other cheek does not mean you accept abuse; it means you surrender the right to revenge and place the outcome in God’s hands. In doing so, you rise above what was meant to humiliate you.

As you move through your day, think about the people who may have hurt or frustrated you. Ask God for the courage to respond with grace instead of reaction. The next time you want to strike back—verbally, emotionally, or spiritually—pause and turn your heart toward the Savior who turned His cheek for you.

 

Did You Know that Giving Freely Brings Heavenly Security?

Jesus’ words in Matthew 6:19–21 remind us that what we treasure reveals who we trust: “Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy 
 But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven.” In a world obsessed with accumulation, Jesus invites us to experience the joy of release. Possessions are not evil, but they are temporary. Every dollar, every possession, every talent is a tool—not a trophy. When we give generously, we trade what is fading for what is eternal.

This passage also speaks directly to our modern anxieties about control and security. We are tempted to think that more money, recognition, or comfort will protect us. But Jesus reframes the conversation: true security isn’t found in what we hold—it’s found in whom we trust. “For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” The kingdom principle is simple: generosity loosens the grip of fear. Every time you give, you remind your soul that heaven, not earth, is your home.

Ask yourself today: where is my treasure resting? Is my heart tethered to what can rust or to what can last? Give something away this week—time, encouragement, or resources—and see how God replenishes your heart. In His economy, surrender multiplies blessing.

 

Did You Know that Loving Your Enemies Changes You First?

“You have heard that it was said, ‘Love your neighbor and hate your enemy.’ But I tell you: love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you” (Matthew 5:43–44). Few commands from Jesus stretch the heart like this one. Loving an enemy sounds impossible until we remember that God first loved us when we were His enemies. This teaching dismantles the walls that anger and resentment build within us. It is not about approving wrong behavior but about refusing to let bitterness define us.

When we pray for those who wrong us, something miraculous happens—our hearts begin to heal. Jesus knew that hatred corrodes the soul. It steals our peace and turns us inward. Love, however, is liberating. It releases us from the control of our enemies by refusing to let their actions dictate our character. Love is not weakness; it is divine strength on display. As the writer Frederick Buechner said, “Of the seven deadly sins, anger is the most fun
 To lick your wounds, to savor the pain you are giving back. In many ways it is a feast fit for a king. The chief drawback is that what you are wolfing down is yourself.” Jesus calls us to stop devouring ourselves and instead feed the world with grace.

Today, take a moment to pray for someone you struggle to forgive. Don’t pray for them to change first—pray that God changes your heart. Every act of love toward an enemy creates space for God’s presence to dwell in you.

 

Did You Know that Giving Up Control Is the Beginning of True Discipleship?

“Any of you who does not give up everything he has cannot be my disciple” (Luke 14:33). At first glance, these words sound daunting, even impossible. Yet Jesus is not calling us to a life of deprivation but of deep trust. He knows that clinging to our rights, our possessions, and our need for control keeps us from following Him freely. Surrender isn’t about losing—it’s about gaining what truly lasts. The paradox of discipleship is that when we let go of our claim to everything, we discover that we have lost nothing of eternal value.

Jesus practiced what He preached. He gave up His right to glory and equality with God to become human, to serve, to suffer, and to save. Paul wrote, “Though He was rich, yet for your sake He became poor, so that you through His poverty might become rich.” (2 Corinthians 8:9). In giving up control, we reflect the heart of Christ. The world teaches that freedom comes from having options; the gospel teaches that freedom comes from surrender.

As you reflect this afternoon, ask yourself what areas of life you still try to control—your future, your finances, your relationships, or your image. What would it look like to lay them at the feet of Jesus? You may find that what feels like loss becomes the beginning of your greatest joy.

 

We live in a world that celebrates rights, but Jesus calls us to something higher—the way of surrender. Following Him means releasing the need to be right, recognized, or repaid. It’s not easy, but it’s freeing. When we give up our rights, we gain His peace. When we release control, we receive His guidance. When we choose love over revenge, we reflect His heart to a world desperate for grace.

Take a deep breath and remember: discipleship is not about what we lose—it’s about what we discover when our hands are finally empty enough to receive.

 

Related Reading: “What It Really Means to Deny Yourself” – Crosswalk.com

FEEL FREE TO COMMENT SHARE SUBSCRIBE

 

#ChristianDiscipleship #denyingSelf #followingJesus #lettingGoOfControl #loveYourEnemies #Luke1433 #Matthew5Devotion #PastorHogg #surrenderToGod #turnTheOtherCheek

SpiritualKhazaanaspiritualkhazaana
2025-10-01

Come Follow Me: Jesus’ Transformative Call to Discipleship
At the heart of Jesus’ ministry is a simple, unassuming invitation: “Come follow Me.” Over two thousand years later, these words remain the catalyst for the world’s greatest spiritual movement. In “Come Follow Me: How Jesus’ Invitation Changes Everything”, Robbie Foreman offers a practical, story-driven guide to genuine... More details
 spiritualkhazaana.com/come-fol

Come, Follow Me
SpiritualKhazaanaspiritualkhazaana
2025-09-23

A Deep Dive into "The Cost of Discipleship": The Radical Call
“The Cost of Discipleship” by Dietrich Bonhoeffer—edited by Shanelle Robertson—is an enduring and challenging manifesto that calls Christians not to cheap grace but to costly, courageous, authentic following of Christ. Bonhoeffer’s voice, written in the crucible of Nazi Germany and...More details
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The Cost of Discipleship
Skellyfabricthatmademe
2025-08-09

Distance is hard. Waiting is harder. But God’s not done.
He’s revealing truth, clearing a path, and holding us together while we live in this divide.
This is real, raw, and rooted in faith.
Read it! Feel it. You’re not alone.
📬 fabricthatmademe.com
đŸ“± @skfabric_303
✹ Share if you’ve ever trusted God through the unknown.






fabricthatmademe.com/2025/08/0

SpiritualKhazaanaspiritualkhazaana
2025-07-26

Following Jesus: Jesus and His Way – A Transformational Journey into Discipleship
In the ever-evolving landscape of Christian literature, “Following Jesus: Jesus and His Way” stands out as a compelling guide for those seeking to deepen their understanding of what it truly means to follow Christ in today’s world. Authored by Trey D. Gilmore ...More details
 spiritualkhazaana.com/followin

Following Jesus
Alive in Christaliveinchristaz
2025-07-17

This video delves into prioritizing faith, navigating disagreements, and the sacrifices required to follow Jesus. Learn about unity in Christ, adapting to obstacles, and the importance of helping others understand. Discover the path to true commitment and understanding.

SpiritualKhazaanaspiritualkhazaana
2025-07-16

Following Jesus : You know Jesus, but do you really know what it means to follow Him?
In a world filled with chaos, uncertainty, and constant noise, the call to follow Jesus offers a path of peace, purpose, and profound transformation. This journey is not just about religious adherence but a deep, personal commitment to living a life aligned with love, compassion, and truth. More... spiritualkhazaana.com/web-stor

Following Jesus
Carmelite Quotescarmelitequotes.blog@carmelitequotes.blog
2025-05-09

Quote of the day, 10 May: Pope Leo XIV

This reflection is drawn from a homily delivered by Pope Leo XIV while serving as Apostolic Administrator of the Diocese of Callao, Peru. Preached on the Second Sunday in Ordinary Time, 17 January 2021, he invites the faithful to renew their relationship with Jesus.

The readings we have heard at this Mass for the Second Sunday in Ordinary Time invite us to return to the beginning of our life of faith, to take a look at how we are living our relationship with Jesus.

In the Gospel, Jesus begins a dialogue with a question. He says to the disciples of John the Baptist—who will later become His own followers—“What are you looking for?” (Jn 1:38).

What are you looking for? What am I looking for? These are the first words of Jesus in this Gospel passage. We can say that the encounter with Jesus begins with a question: What are we looking for in life? What are we looking for in Jesus? The response of the two disciples is: “Rabbi, where are you staying?” As if to say, Where can we find you?

This question is very important for our lives—perhaps more than ever in these times—when we must seek the Lord and live our faith in new ways.

This question—Where can we find you? Where are you staying?—expresses a desire present in the hearts of all of us, of every human being—at least of those who seek something beyond the surface. Those who want to understand the true meaning of life and want to encounter God because they feel that need, that restlessness, that desire to live in union with the Lord.

When Jesus responds to the disciples’ question—“Where are you staying?”—He answers: “Come and see” (Jn 1:39).

The Lord calls us to follow Him, and if we follow, we will truly see wonders—even in the midst of suffering and pain and so many difficulties.

The Lord invites us to stay with Him, just as He did with the disciples of John. These disciples discover in Jesus the Lamb of God, the fullness of truth. That’s why Andrew, the brother of Simon Peter, when he realizes he has found the Messiah, goes and finds his brother and says, “We have found the Messiah” (Jn 1:41). And then Peter too comes to know Jesus.

We want to live with Christ, to follow His example—He came to serve, not to be served. To live our faith especially through this experience of encountering Christ, through His Word—reading the Word of God, asking the Lord to enlighten us, to give us the capacity to hear His voice—through the Word and through other people who accompany us on the journey.

May the Lord help us to fulfill it, to be faithful, to live out this commitment He has asked of us. May we be faithful Christians, bearing witness with our lives—because we have already encountered Jesus. And now He wants to call us once again to accept that invitation: “Where are you staying?”

“Come and see.”

Pope Leo XIV (Robert Francis Prevost, O.S.A.)

Prevost, R.F. 2021, Homily for the Second Sunday in Ordinary Time, Diocese of Callao, 17 January. Available at: https://www.diocesisdelcallao.org/noticias/mons-robert-prevost-escuchando-la-palabra-de-dios-descubriremos-nuestra-vocacion

Translation from the Spanish text is the blogger’s own work product and may not be reproduced without permission.

Featured image: Pope Leo XIV (Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost, O.S.A.) greets the faithful from the central balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica following his election as Supreme Pontiff on 8 May 2025. Image credit: © Mazur/cbcew.org.uk (Some rights reserved).

⏊ Reflection Question ⏊
Have I made space to hear Jesus’ voice in Scripture and respond to His invitation to “come and see”?
⏊ Join the conversation in the comments.

#disciples #followingJesus #JesusChrist #PopeLeoXIV #service #unionWithGod #vocation #witness

Carmelite Quotescarmelitequotes.blog@carmelitequotes.blog
2025-03-07

Quote of the day, 8 March: St. Teresa of the Andes

My goal is to love and serve God. For if I love God, I’ll fulfill His divine will.

What is His Will? That I follow Him and be perfect.

How can I most easily attain perfection? By means of the evangelical counsels: obedience, chastity and poverty.

I must follow Jesus Christ wherever He calls me, since that is my salvation.

Saint Teresa of the Andes

Resolutions, Retreat of 1918

Griffin, M D & Teresa of the Andes, S 2021, God, The Joy of My Life: A Biography of Saint Teresa of the Andes With the Saint’s Spiritual Diary, ICS Publications, Washington DC.

Featured image: The Calling of Saint Matthew, Caravaggio (Italian 1571–1610), oil on canvas, ca. 1599–1600, Contarelli Chapel, Church of San Luigi dei Francesi, Rome. Image credit: Wikimedia Commons (Public domain)

#Call #DivineWill #evangelicalCounsels #followingJesus #goal #love #perfection #salvation #StTeresaOfTheAndes

Mountain View Lutheran Churchmvlutheran
2024-11-23

Weekly Devotional 11/23/24 -  11/29/24

conta.cc/4108gWL

Mountain View Lutheran Churchmvlutheran
2024-11-16

Weekly Devotional 11/16/24 -  11/22/24

conta.cc/3YQ5v7Y

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