Advent Season – Peace 4

            Since we are in the Advent Season, I thought is appropriate to address the topic of the day by quoting the apostle Paul from his letter to the Philippian believers. In his statement we find a way to find peace at any time.

 

Phil 4:6-7 – “Don’t worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank him for all he has done. Then you will experience God’s peace, which exceeds anything we can understand. His peace will guard your hearts and minds as you live in Christ Jesus.” 

 

            Okay, so let’s break this down. Initially we’re told not to worry. It comes in the form of the phrase, “Fear not”and is found in scripture 365 times; once for every day of the calendar year. We are implored to pray about EVERYTHING. What does that tell us? It tells us that nothing is too big or too small to pray about. Prayer is communicating with God. The key is for us to be in tune with our Lord to the extent that we can hear Him when He speaks to us thru the indwelt Holy Spirit. It’s communication that must be worked at. Speaking to God is the easy part, hearing from Him is the part the typically needs work.

            From there Paul stresses that we tell God what we need. Now an omniscient God already knows what we need, so why do we have to TELL Him? Is it not so that we verbalize it rather than just expect it to come into being? Prayer is for OUR benefit, not God’s. We are to take the time to thank Him for His gracious willingness to hear us and act on our behalf. It is at that time that God’s peace will permeate our soul and spirit. Paul is plain about it when he says, there is no way we, in our inferior status to God, could ever comprehend God fully or understand the peace that He provides. 

            God’s peace acts as a guard for our hearts and minds as you proceed in your life with the Lord. Let’s face it, the mind is where most of the battles are fought. If we rely on Christ and not ourselves we will live a faithful life... not an easy life necessarily, but one that will reflect God’s perfect standard for living a victorious life in His name and for His kingdom.

            Until next time, walk with the King & be a blessing.

In His Name & for His Glory,

RL Keller

Bread of Life Ministries

Advent Season – Peace 3

The Christmas holiday season, which essentially begins the day after Thanksgiving, in today’s society is anything but peaceful. True peace will never be found in the busyness, materialism, or holiday traditions, but instead in the very presence of Jesus Christ. We certainly understand that He no longer exists in bodily form, for He ascended to heaven in the very beginning of the Book of Acts to sit at the right hand of the Father. He DOES however exist in spirit form and resides within the heart of the Christian beginning on the day of their conversion. With Christ it is possible to find peace even in the middle of grief, stress and/or conflict by simply turning all our worries over to our Heavenly Father. That can be easier said than done. It takes a serious “want to” to LET GO of the worries that have eaten so much of your time, but it can be done with the help of God’s Holy Spirit. He is the one who resides in you. The third person of the Triune God. He, Christ, and Father God are one in the same, yet each one has a distinct role. God is the source, Christ is the means of salvation, and the Holy Spirit as the dynamic force thru which God's decrees are carried out. The Spirit is also the agent of new creation, imparting life and renewal to believers, transforming them into new creations in Christ.

Ways to achieve peace in your soul & spirit is thru prayer, reading scripture, spending valuable family time and/or just being still. These practices can assist in cultivating inner peace anytime of the year.

Ultimately, Christmas is a time to celebrate the Prince of Peace, whose birth offers a foundation for lasting peace—between God and humanity, among people, and within the individual soul. As believers reflect on the story of Christmas, they are reminded that peace is not merely the absence of conflict but a deep, God-given tranquility that comes from trusting in Christ’s redemptive work. There is no deception in God, for He is the lone perfect entity in existence. He has the power and authority to make us perfect as well, though not this side of heaven. We remain flawed until we are taken to the new heaven & new earth. Then we will know even as we are known. 

Peace is attainable thru faith and trust in Christ; more specifically, thru relying on the fact that God is just and fair and perfect in all His judgements & decisions. We are promised a spirit of peace and if we remain focused on the King of Kings, we shall achieve this peace and be able to rest in it. Until next time, walk with the King & be a blessing.

In His Name & for His Glory,

RL Keller

Bread of Life Ministries

Advent Season – Peace 2

“For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be upon his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.” - Isaiah 9:6

 

            Jesus is the central figure in Christianity. "Prince of Peace" is a messianic title for Jesus Christ, derived from Isaiah 9:6, signifying His role as the divine bringer of true and lasting peace. This peace, in Hebrew ‘shalom’,encompasses wholeness, harmony, and restoration—primarily the reconciliation between God and humanity achieved through Christ's sacrificial death and resurrection. Unlike earthly peace, which is temporary and depends on circumstances, the peace of Christ is spiritual, internal, and eternal, transforming hearts and overcoming sin, fear, and division. He establishes this peace not passively, but as a victorious King who defeats spiritual enemies, bringing wholeness, or ‘shalom’, to His people. His reign, marked by justice and righteousness, promises ultimate fulfillment in the future kingdom of God.

            Isaiah 9:6 reveals three things about the Messiah. It describes what He brings: joy, freedom, and peace. It tells us just who He is: counselor, God, Father, and Prince of Peace. Scripture tells us, “and of His Kingdom it shall have no end.” ^{(Luke 1:33 NLT)} Lastly, it tells us who He is for, and that would be you and me. He comes with forgiveness in one hand and justice in the other. That is our Prince of Peace. There is NO power greater than the power of God, so if He declares that both peace and justice will come to men, you can bank on it, because no one has the strength or ability to stop Him from working thru His eternal plan. Until next time, walk with the King & be a blessing.

In His Name & for His Glory,

RL Keller

Bread of Life Ministries

Advent Season – Peace 1

Peace is a multifaceted concept that can be understood as a state of harmony characterized by the absence of violent conflict and freedom from fear of violence. It is often defined as a state of tranquility.

In religious and philosophical traditions, peace holds deep significance. In the Bible, the Hebrew word shalom means "to be complete or whole" and encompasses well-being, prosperity, health, and a right relationship between people and with God. The New Testament uses the Greek word ‘eirene’, which refers to rest, tranquility, and peace with God through Christ. The Bible emphasizes that peace is a gift from God, a result of righteousness, and a fruit of a right relationship with Him. Jesus is referred to as the "Prince of Peace”, and peace is seen as a key element of the messianic age, where nations will transform weapons into tools for agriculture.

In our world today we have a faction that is breeding anything but peace. They feed off of violence and chaos, two things that are the opposite of what most people want and the opposite of what God provides in abundance. At this glorious time of the year, peoples thoughts, words, and actions promote peace. Will we achieve it in this lifetime? It’s not looking good at the moment, but God is in control of all things and either causes or allows whatever takes place (or does not take place) to make this world, the world He created, a peaceful place once again. It shall be a supernatural thing that takes place in our future; at the appointed time that is known only to God Himself. So take the hope that we’ve spoken of in previous posts and apply it here, knowing that God is true to His word; there is no failing in Him. Until next time, walk with the King & be a blessing.

In His Name & for His Glory,

RL Keller

Bread of Life Ministries

Advent Season – Hope 5

A synonym for HOPE is TO ANTICIPATE. You have to find hope somewhere and/or in someone, but how do you decide? If you’re not a believer in God, then where do you turn for wisdom? To place your hope in mankind is shaky due to its track record. Even the most trustworthy individual can and eventually will falter and fail you.  That would be because we’re all human, with faults and flaws.

            Anticipating a positive outcome to a set of circumstances depends on the source of the anticipation (hope). Mortal man, as stated, is massively flawed, no matter how good they may think they are. Too many folks look for the easy path, rather than the best path. Many have no patience. They want what they want and they want it NOW. In that regard God would more than likely be a big disappointment to that individual because He acts when He knows the time is right and not according to our latest whim.

            Believers hope is found in Christ, based on His birth, His life, and His death. Why is that? It’s because of the things He said; the promises He made. Because scripture prophesied about His death and subsequent resurrection and it happens just as it was foretold. Those who don’t wish to search out the truth found in scripture, will miss out on the hope that God provides just because of who He is.

            I anticipate good things taking place at some point in the future because of my intimate relationship with the Lord. That is my hope based on what I believe to be true. You see, I’ve taken the time, as in years, to research out who God is, who Jesus is, what has been done to save mankind, and I have chosen to believe these things. THAT is my hope for my life’s future. 

            The hope that is associated with Christmas is based on our acceptance of that which has been disseminated throughout the globe for approximately 2000 years. Both Christmas and Easter give a follower of Christ supreme hope because of what those holidays represent; Christ’s birth, His death, and His resurrection. Those three events in history provide forgiveness for every sinful thing mortal man has ever done. Once saved our hope is realized and our anticipation ramps up. What a glorious holiday to celebrate! Until next time, walk with the King & be a blessing.

In His Name & for His Glory,

RL Keller

Bread of Life Ministries

Advent Season – Hope 4

 

When the Bible speaks of hope it is rooted in trust and confidence in God’s promises, particularly when they concern salvation and eternal life. We shouldn’t wish for hope but rather expect it based on God’s faithfulness. Scripture describes hope as a source of joy, and peace, especially in times of trouble. Any hope we have will never be disappointed because the Lord has poured His love into our hearts via the Holy Spirit.

The Old Testament presents hope as trusting in God’s deliverance and provision, with God Himself being the object of hope. Passages like Psalm 25:21 and Isaiah 49:23 affirm that those who hope in the Lord will not be ashamed. The New Testament expands this hope to include the resurrection, eternal life, and the glorious appearing of Christ. This hope is not based on human effort or worldly things but on faith in Christ, who is described as the hope of believers.

The Bible also teaches that hope is essential for endurance and perseverance. Trials produce steadfastness, which in turn produces hope. The resurrection of Jesus is central to this hope, as it guarantees that believers will also be raised to eternal life. As Paul writes in 1 Corinthians 15:19, if our hope is only in this life, we are to be pitied above all people—but because of Christ’s resurrection, our hope is secure and eternal.

Ultimately, biblical hope is not uncertain or vague; it is certain because it is anchored in God’s unchanging nature and His promises. As the writer to the Hebrews says, believers have taken hold of the hope set before them, which is a sure and steadfast anchor for the soul. This hope is not found in human leaders, wealth, or political systems, but solely in the God of hope, who fills believers with joy and peace through faith. Until next time, walk with the King & be a blessing.

In His Name & for His Glory,

RL Keller

Bread of Life Ministries

Advent Season – Hope 3

 

What hope is found in suffering?   

Biblical hope in times of suffering is not denial or false optimism regarding your situation, but a confident expectation rooted in God’s character and promises. It transforms hardship into a means of spiritual growth, as Romans 5:3–5 teaches: “suffering produces endurance, endurance produces character, and character produces hope—a hope that does not disappoint because it is fueled by God’s love through the Holy Spirit.”

In suffering, biblical hope means trusting that God is present, has a purpose, and will ultimately bring good. Isaiah 43:2 assures, “When you go through deep waters, I will be with you.” This hope sustains believers, preventing despair even when burdened beyond their strength (2 Corinthians 4:8–9). Paul, who faced imprisonment and persecution, found hope in knowing his suffering advanced the gospel and would one day give way to eternal glory (2 Corinthians 4:17).

Hope also carries a communal dimension—God comforts us in trials so we can comfort others (2 Corinthians 1:4). Even when suffering feels overwhelming, believers are called to rejoice, not because of the pain, but because of the future redemption and resurrection life secured by Christ, who conquered death. This hope anchors the soul, making suffering temporary and purposeful in light of eternity.

                  When dealing with sickness & disease we mustn’t assume that a physical healing will always be in the offing. Frankly, it may not come at all this side of heaven. We pray for total healing from cancer or some other malady and the individual being prayed for passed away. Have your prayers been answered? You may say ‘NO’, but think about it. The person wasn’t healed the way you wanted, but in heaven they will be completely healed, never to be sick again. That may be God’s way of answering your prayers for healing.

                  1 Peter 2:24 states that “Jesus bore our sins in His body on the tree so that we might die to sin and live to righteousness, and by His wounds we have been healed.” Peter is referring to Isaiah 53:5, where it says: “by His stripes we are healed.” When taken IN context spiritual healing rather than physical healing is being spoken of. Our salvation from sin is far more important than our physical healing. We are able to enter heaven when sick on earth, but we cannot enter heaven without our sins being expunged. It simply will not happen.  Our hope lies in God and God alone.  

                  It may seem contradictory to be joyful when in pain or terminally ill or deeply despondent, and the Lord knows it isn’t easy, but the potential is always there for you to shift your focus off your circumstances and gaze into the eyes of Jesus. There is a song we sang in the evangelical church I used to attend, and its chorus is the following: “Turn your eyes upon Jesus. Look full in His wonderful face, and the things of earth will grow strangely dim in the light of His glory and grace.” The answer for every question and every situation you may have or encounter in this life is always... JESUS. Trust in Him. Rely on Him. Love Him, Serve Him. It is the relationship of a lifetime. Until next time, walk with the King and be a blessing.

In His Name & for His Glory,

RL Keller

Bread of Life Ministries

Advent Season – Hope 2

 

The Bible has quite a lot to say about hope. Biblical hope has as its foundation faith in God. The word hope in English often conveys doubt. For instance, “I hope it doesn’t rain tomorrow.” In addition, the word hope is often followed by the word ‘so’. This is the answer that some may give when asked if they think that they will go to heaven when they die. They say, “I hope so.” However, that is not the meaning of the words usually translated “hope” in the Bible.

In the Old Testament the Hebrew word for hope has the meaning of confidence, security, and being without care; therefore, the concept of doubt is not part of this word. In most instances in the New Testament, the word hope in Greek again reveals no doubt attached to this word. Therefore, biblical hope is a confident expectation or assurance based upon a sure foundation for which we wait with joy and full confidence. In other words, “There is no doubt about it!”

One of the verses in which we find the word hope is Hebrews 11:1. “Now faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see.” This verse at the beginning of the faith chapter (Hebrews 11) carries with it all of the confidence that comes with knowing for sure, with no question, what we have been promised by God in His Word. Our faith is confident assurance, for it is founded upon the Rock of our salvation, the Lord Jesus Christ. All of the actions of the heroes of the faith recorded in Hebrews 11 were made possible because they had this faith based in their confident assurance or hope in God. 

Therefore, biblical hope is a reality and not a feeling. Biblical hope carries no doubt. Biblical hope is a sure foundation upon which we base our lives, believing that God always keeps His promises. Hope or confident assurance can be ours when we trust the words, “He who believes on Me has everlasting life” ^{(John 6:47, NKJV).} Accepting that gift of eternal life means our hope is no longer filled with doubt but, rather, has at its sure foundation the whole of God’s Word, the entirety of God’s character, and the finished work of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Until next time, walk with the King & be a blessing.

In His Name & for His Glory,

RL Keller

Bread of Life Ministries

Resource: www.gotquestions.org

Advent Season – Hope 1

 

Hope is “to cherish a desire with anticipation; to want something to happen or be true.”_{(Merriam-Webster Dictionary)}

 

“Biblical hope not only desires something good for the future — it expects it to happen.”- _{John Piper}

 

“Wherever there is full assurance of hope, there is faith. Faith is the full assurance of hope.”- _{John Piper}

         In God’s economy there is no such thing as being “hopeless”, for God is ever-present and loves His entire creation with an everlasting love. Therefore, IN God there is ALWAYS hope. Frankly speaking, it has everything to do with your point of reference. What you focus on. Peter focused on his horrific surroundings, namely the winds and waves that flared up constantly on the Galilean Sea. The result was that he began to sink. He was saved by the mighty right hand of Jesus. What are you focused on and why? Do you not yet know that all lasting and eternal hope comes from God?

            While worldly resources are limited to the extent of man’s intellect, God Himself is infinite, making all His resources infinite as well. Therefore, hope is ALWAYS readily available when you have a personal relationship with the Almighty One. Until next time, walk with the King & be a blessing.

In His Name & for His Glory,

RL Keller

Bread of Life Ministries

Note: John Piper is a Christian Teacher, Pastor, & Author of more than 50 books.

Advent – What is it?

The Advent season is a four-week period in the Christian calendar that prepares people for Jesus Christ’s birth at Christmas, while also pointing ahead to his promised return. Each Sunday of the season traditionally spotlights a key theme—like hope, peace, joy, or love—to invite reflection, prayer, and expectant celebration.

The word “advent” comes from the Latin “adventus”, which is about a “coming” or an “arrival.” The Latin translation of the New Testament uses adventus to describe God the Son arriving on Earth, born as Jesus of Nazareth during the 1st century A.D. ^{(see Acts 7:52)}. Still, throughout Church history, Advent has more traditionally referred to Jesus’ future arrival, when he comes to complete his work of restoring all creation ^{(see Matt. 24:27; 1 Cor. 15:23; 1 Thess. 3:13)}.

The Advent season leads to the celebration of Jesus’ birth and also emphasizes his future arrival. It’s a season that includes practices like prayer, giving to those in need, and worship ^{(plus more, depending on the tradition).} And it reminds us that we’re living during the time between Jesus’ first and second advents, leading us to lament the hardships we experience in a still-broken world, while also forming us into people who wait with longing for the renewed world to come. 

Celebrating Advent also means living it by practicing a generous way of love and care for our neighbors as we partner with Jesus to bring peace on Earth. Until next time, walk with the King & be a blessing.

In His Name & for His Glory,

RL Keller

Bread of Life Ministries

Resource: https://bibleproject.com/guides/advent/

The Four Weeks of Advent

 

In most Christian traditions, Advent is a four-week season of celebration and observation prior to Christmas, each week often focusing on a particular biblical theme. These are some themes commonly explored during Advent. 

 

Week 1: Hope

Week 2: Peace

Week 3: Joy

Week 4: Love    

 

For the next four weeks up until Christmas Day I will address each topic during that particular week. As you can see the first week of December will address Hope.

 

Christmas is a very special time of year for all those who celebrate it. There are many traditions, some bible-based, others purely personal & family oriented. It is a season that is meant to bring all the themes listed up above out in those who celebrate the season.  

Advent itself has, down thru the ages celebrated the arrival of the divine child; God in human form. The anticipation of His arrival becomes electric as the day approaches. His arrival had come at its prescribed time, and the world was better for it. Those who dismiss His arrival as a children’s fairytale are missing out regarding something that is outside themselves and is waiting to bless them.  

The four topics from up above are attainable in the real world, yet they are not the lasting versions of them. Hope, peace, joy, & love can be had outside of knowing God, but they are of the temporal variety, and not eternal, as they are from knowing God.

The spiritual realm exists in part to enhance our experience knowing God. The hope, peace, joy, & love that exists as it radiates from Almighty God is eternal in nature and attainable by merely asking. God is the embodiment of these four traits that place our lives on a path to supreme and everlasting peace, contentment, and fulfillment. These things are attainable only thru God and no one or nothing else. So enjoy the next four weeks of Advent as I attempt to educate, encourage, & edify you all. Until next time, walk with the King & be a blessing.

In His Name & for His Glory,

RL Keller

Bread of Life Ministries

The Signs of a Healthy Church

 

The church is the body of Christ and, as such, is charged to carry out His work in the world. Before Jesus ascended back into heaven, He gave the disciples the Great Commission: "Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age" (Matthew 28:19—20). A healthy local church will be actively fulfilling the Great Commission, and the Bible provides specific guidelines of what the signs of a healthy church are. 

First, it's important to mention that a large church is not a foolproof sign of a healthy church. Growing in numbers can be a sign that a church is healthy (Acts 2:47; 5:14; 16:5), but it's not an automatic guarantee of health. Spiritual growth and biblical soundness, not numbers, are how we measure the healthiness of a church. What are the key things to look for? 

The Bible should be the center of all teaching, and the doctrine should be sound (Titus 1:9; 2:1; 1 Timothy 6:3–4; 2 Timothy 2:2). Sound doctrine will be reaffirmed throughout the Bible and is generally not based on a single verse or passage. Rather, it's a message we see repeated throughout the Scriptures. As Paul told Timothy, "All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, equipped for every good work" (2 Timothy 3:16—17). Ungodliness prevails when doctrine is not sound. When we hear and apply sound doctrine, the result is godly living (1 Timothy 1:10; 4:6; 2 Timothy 1:13—14). 

A healthy church will have godly leadership who exemplify a life of obedience to Christ and a heart of service for others. Their lives will be marked by faithfulness and righteous living (Titus 1:6–9; 1 Timothy 3:1–7). Jesus Christ is the head of the church, and while no pastor is perfect, it should be evident that they are working to become more like Jesus every day (Colossians 1:18; Matthew 20:25–28; John 13:12–17). Godly leaders will be good stewards of the resources, talents, and ministry that God has entrusted to them (1 Corinthians 4:1–3; 9:17; 1 Peter 4:10; Ephesians 4:11–16). As Jesus spent time with the disciples, training them in the ways of the Lord, godly leaders will train and cultivate others into spiritual leadership, as well (Acts 6:1–7). 

When a church has sound doctrine and godly leadership, discipleship and subsequent spiritual fruit will be evident within the congregation. Faithful leaders produce faithful followers who love the Lord and seek to live according to His Word (John 8:31–32; 14:15; 1 John 2:3–6). Believers who are being discipled will build solid relationships with others (Acts 2:42–47; 1 Corinthians 10:17; Hebrews 10:24–15), be involved in the church—using their gifts to serve others (Romans 12:4–8; 1 Corinthians 12:7), and will be bearing fruit as they grow in their own sanctification (John 15:5–8; Galatians 5:22–25; 1 Thessalonians 5:23). 

Finally, a healthy church will be recognized by its outreach. It will be evangelistic, spreading the gospel. And it will be compassionate and generous with its resources for the sake of others. Evangelism occurs within a wide spectrum of experience, ranging from our day-to-day lives and interactions with others to local community efforts and world missions. We have this incredible gift of forgiveness and salvation, and because of this, as the church, we are called to be: "the aroma of Christ to God among those who are being saved and among those who are perishing, to one a fragrance from death to death, to the other a fragrance from life to life" (2 Corinthians 2:15–16). The good news of salvation through Jesus Christ is not something to hoard—it should be shared near and far, fulfilling the Great Commission (Matthew 28:19—20). This good news brings forgiveness, salvation, light to darkness, and peace to chaos. A healthy church can be recognized by its passion to get the word out to those in need. 

Until next time, walk with the King & be a blessing.

In His Name & for His Glory,

RL Keller

Bread of Life Ministries

Source:  www.gotquestions.org

What Does Being a “New Man” in Christ Mean?

 

We know from scripture (John 3:3) that Jesus told Nicodemus he must be “born again of the spirit”. That’s not a remodeling job, but rather a starting over. We are told by the apostle Paul in 2^nd Corinthians 5:15 & 17, the following: “And He died for all, so that they who live might no longer live for themselves, but for Him who died and rose again on their behalf. . .. Therefore if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creature; the old things passed away; behold, new things have come.”

Using the illustration of birth has been done for a specific reason; because when saved we are made completely new from the inside out. Your spirit has become alive, where prior to our conversion we were spiritually dead. Hence the phrase “dead man walking”.

Prior to receiving Christ, we essentially lived for ourselves. We were number one in our lives, and though we may have given our heart to another, at our core we were selfish, and self-centered.  Our former self was dead in sin, but thru salvation we were brought back to life. We were like the proverbial dead men walking. We thought we were happy, but at some point, in the quiet of a lonely evening, didn’t we wonder if that was all there is to life.

There is a belief that every person has a “God shaped hole” inside them. “The concept of a "God-shaped hole"in every person is most commonly attributed to Blaise Pascal, a 17th-century French philosopher, mathematician, and theologian, who stated that there is a "God-shaped vacuum in the heart of every man". This idea has been echoed and elaborated upon by various religious and philosophical figures throughout history. For instance, St. Augustine wrote in his Confessions that "You have made us for yourself, O Lord, and our hearts are restless until they rest in you". John Calvin, the Protestant reformer, referred to a "sense of divinity" as a natural instinct within humans. The idea has also been discussed by C.S. Lewis, Rick Warren, and even acknowledged by the atheist philosopher Bertrand Russell, who described a “deep, unfulfillable longing in human existence”. While Pascal is the most frequently cited originator, the concept reflects a broader philosophical and theological theme about the human search for meaning and transcendence.” ^[1]

            Once you become a follower of Christ you are righteous, justified, & sanctified in God’s eyes. All that is because of what Christ did on the cross for all of mankind. You are to yield to the spirit within you and slowly become more like Christ. God changes our desires, outlook, and focus as we turn from self-worship to God-worship.

            At salvation, the Holy Spirit pours into our hearts and inflates the spirit inside us so that we can now communicate with God. Whereas a person was formerly directed by the sin nature, he or she can now be directed by the Holy Spirit who works to transform us into the image of Christ (Romans 8:29).

            We are to present our bodies as a living sacrifice and renew our minds so that we begin to think as God thinks (Romans 12:1–2). As we focus on knowing God, reading His Word, and surrendering ourselves daily to the control of the Holy Spirit, our choices change, along with our priorities. A person was formerly directed by the sin nature, but now can be directed by the Holy Spirit who works to transform us into the image of Christ (Romans 8:29).

Therefore, we are becoming a “new man”.

            Until next time, walk with the King & be a blessing.

In His Name & for His Glory,

RL Keller

Bread of Life Ministries

Thanksgiving Thoughts from a Random Mind

 

            Everyday should be Thanksgiving for the Christian. That’s because every day you can ask yourself “What am I thankful for?” and come up with pretty much the same answer. I’m thankful for the fact that Christ died for me. Salvation has changed the entire trajectory of my life. I get to know the Creator of the Universe a little better every day. 

            So in this world that is becoming more hateful and chaotic every single day, I get to love others and reach out with the love of Christ. No hate, no violence, no ugliness... just a calm spirit, and a will to do the right thing in the eyes of Almighty God. 

            Am I perfect? Not even close, but I strive for perfection by trying to be a reflection of Jesus in this sin-sick, violent, hateful world. Does it seem irrational to strive for something you can never obtain this side of heaven? I personally don’t think so. I mean, what are your alternatives. You go on social media and lately all you see is name calling and ugly rhetoric that depresses your soul. Christ uplifts my soul every time I think of Him. 

            So on this Thanksgiving Day 2025, I am grateful for life, liberty, & forgiveness. I am thankful for all the folks I know. I’m thankful for my lovely wife, Kathy. I’m thankful for the life I’ve lived, with all its peaks & valleys, for that is where growth takes place. I am a better man today because Christ is in my life and I will continue to be a better version of myself every day that I serve the King. How about you?

            I hope this finds you in good spirits & may the Lord bless both you & yours on this beautiful day.  HAPPY THANKSGIVING!!  

 

Until next time, walk with the King & be a blessing.

In His Name & for His Glory,

RL Keller

Bread of Life Ministries

 

The Purpose of the Church

 

God established the church as a community of believers united under Christ to fulfill a multifaceted purpose rooted in His eternal plan. The primary purpose is to bring glory to God through worship, discipleship, and evangelism, while also serving as a spiritual family that equips believers for service and fosters unity in faith and knowledge of Christ. This involves both internal growth—through teaching, fellowship, prayer, and the observance of the Lord’s Supper—and external mission, including making disciples of all nations and proclaiming the gospel to the world.

The church is the body of Christ, a group of people called out from the world to represent and reflect Him, unified by faith in Jesus and empowered by the Holy Spirit. Its purpose includes spiritual maturity, where believers are equipped for works of service so that the body of Christ may be built up until all reach unity in faith and the knowledge of the Son of God, becoming mature in Christ.

The church is tasked with the Great Commission to go into all the world, make disciples, baptize them, and teach them to obey Christ’s commands, ensuring the message of salvation is shared globally.

It serves as a light to the world, pointing people to God through its character and actions, and is called to care for the vulnerable, such as orphans and widows, while remaining unstained by the world.

Ultimately, the church exists to prepare a people for the coming Kingdom of God, where believers will reign with Christ as a kingdom of priests, reflecting God’s eternal purpose of gathering all things in Christ.

Until next time, walk with the King & be a blessing.

In His Name & for His Glory,

RL Keller

Bread of Life Ministries

Source:  www.compellingtruth.org

Revisiting the God-Shaped Hole & its Tie to Happiness

In 1670, Blaise Pascal published Pensées*, which was a defense of the Christian religion. In that book, he has a quote:

“What else does this craving, and this helplessness, proclaim but that there was once in man a true happiness, of which all that now remains is the empty print and trace? This he tries in vain to fill with everything around him, seeking in things that are not there the help he cannot find in those that are, though none can help, since this infinite abyss can be filled only with an infinite and immutable object; in other words by God himself.”

- Blaise Pascal, Pensées VII (425)

Augustine of Hippo rightly stated in his fourth-century book Confessions, “Thou hast made us for thyself, O Lord, and our heart is restless until it finds its rest in thee.”

The phrase "God-shaped hole," has taken on a life of its own and has been found throughout many Christian circles. Therefore, it is accepted, at least by believers, that true, lasting happiness, peace, & contentment are a direct result of Almighty God being an integral part of our lives. Without God happiness is fleeting. Like a whisper in the wind.

This concept of a God-Shaped Hole in relation to one’s happiness is not biblical per se, although there is biblical support for such a concept.

            Until next time, walk with the King & be a blessing.

In His Name & for His Glory,

RL Keller

Bread of Life Ministries

Resource: https://christianity.stackexchange.com/questions/2746/where-does-the-concept-of-a-god-shaped-hole-originate

*This book was published after Pascal’s death in 1662.

Have you ever wondered how God’s sees you? 

            I know what the Bible says regarding how God both views us & feels about us, but with the strange things that we all say and do from time to time, it begs the question: “Lord, how can you love me now?” According to scripture, there is nothing we could ever think, say or do that would ever turn Him against any of us. No matter how terrible you may think the thing you have thought, said or done is. 

 

“For I know the thoughts I think toward you, says the Lord, thoughts of peace and not of evil, to give you a future and a hope.” Jeremiah 29:11.

 

“But you are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, His own special people, that you may proclaim the praises of Him who called you out of darkness into His marvelous light.” 1 Peter 2:9.

 

“For the Lord will not cast off His people, nor will He forsake His inheritance.” Psalm 94:14.

 

“And I am convinced that nothing can ever separate us from God’s love. Neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither our fears for today nor our worries about tomorrow—not even the powers of hell can separate us from God’s love. No power in the sky above or in the earth below—indeed, nothing in all creation will ever be able to separate us from the love of God that is revealed in Christ Jesus our Lord.”  Romans 8:38-39.

            Hopefully these verses, and there are plenty more, have convinced you that no matter what you could ever think, say or do, you will NEVER drive a wedge between yourself and God’s love for you. 

            Until next time, walk with the King & be a blessing.

In His Name & for His Glory,

RL Keller

Bread of Life Ministries

Sola Gratia

 

Sola gratia is a Latin phrase that means "grace alone." It means that salvation from sin and death is provided by God's unmerited favor alone, and we can do nothing to earn it. The concept is expressed in Ephesians 2:8-9 which reads, "For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, not a result of works, so that no one may boast." 

Sola gratia is one of the five "solas" of the Protestant Reformation. The others are: 

 

1) Sola scriptura: Scripture alone; God gave us His Word through Scripture, not papal authority or sacred tradition

 

2) Sola fide: Faith alone; salvation is by grace, through faith, not our works (Ephesians 2:8-9)

 

3) Solo Christo: Christ alone; Jesus is the only way to salvation (John 14:6)

 

4) Sola Deo Gloria: glory of God alone; everything we do should be for God's glory (Colossians 3:17) 

 

These were foundational beliefs during the development of the Protestant Reformation, and continue to be vital today.

 

Why is it essential to believe and teach that salvation is provided by grace alone (sola gratia)? First, Scripture is clear that no person seeks God of his or her own initiative: "None is righteous, no, not one; no one understands; no one seeks for God" (Romans 3:10-11). Instead, God must reach out to sinful humanity (Romans 3:23). Christ died for us while we were still ungodly (Romans 5:8). Further, Jesus came to seek and save the lost (Luke 19:10). He actively pursues sinners, calling us to faith in His name.

When a person does accept Christ by grace through faith, Jesus is the One who gives eternal life (John 3:16) and makes us a new creation (2 Corinthians 5:17). Once we have become a believer in Christ, God's Spirit provides the power to live for Him and keeps us in the love of God (Roman 8:37-39). Ultimately, Christ also gives us assurance of eternal life (1 John 5:13).

Salvation is by God's grace alone because He is the One who created us, provided a way of salvation for us, seeks us, gives us faith, changes us when we do believe in Him, empowers us to live for Him, keeps us in His love, and will take us to be with Him for eternity. At no point do our good works provide salvation. This is why sola gratia was not only an important belief during the Protestant Reformation, but remains essential to Christian faith and living today.

Until next time, walk with the King & be a blessing.

In His Name & for His Glory,

RL Keller

Bread of Life Ministries

Source: www.compellingtruth.org

Sin - Remedy

What is sin? “Transgressions against a divinely appointed moral code.” Sin effects our standing with Almighty God, since sin cannot abide in His presence. But what if, as many non-believers say, there IS no God?

“From a Christian theological perspective, if there is no God, evil does not have a coherent origin or definition, as it is understood as the absence of good, which itself is grounded in God. Without God, there is no objective standard for good or evil, making morality subjective and based solely on individual or societal opinion. In this view, evil is not a created entity but a privation or lack of good, similar to how darkness is the absence of light. Therefore, if God does not exist, the very concept of evil as a moral wrong ceases to have a foundation, and what might be labeled as evil would merely be a human interpretation of actions or conditions without an ultimate moral reference point. Some argue that evil arises from the absence of God's presence and the resulting moral disorder, suggesting that without God, the framework for distinguishing right from wrong collapses.” ^[1]

So for the sake of this blog post, let’s say there IS a God. That would, in a spiritual respect, mean there WAS sin. What would the remedy for sin be?  First, what is a remedy? It’s something that is “meant to correct an evil, fault, or error. It is meant to set something right.” THAT is exactly what Christ’s substitutionary death accomplished. We sinned; He corrected the problem with His blood. Christ’s death was the remedy for our sin.

                  Until next time, walk with the King & be a blessing.

In His Name & for His Glory,

RL Keller

Bread of Life Ministries

Note: Definitions come from the American Heritage Dictionary.

^{[1]  www.timeofgrace.org}

Regarding Faith...

Martin Luther King, Jr said the following about faith: “Faith is taking the first step even when you don’t see the whole staircase.” I rather see faith as taking a jump into a black abyss. In that case we give up all control. When walking up a staircase when you cannot see it in its entirety you still have control – the control to stop going up it and return to the bottom. Faith in God is submitting to something or someone that you HAVE TO trust. Otherwise, you would be terrified of that which you cannot see. With faith you are essentially giving up control to an unseen power that in fact is holding you in the palm of His hand. 

            An enemy of faith is fear. Fear is defined thusly: an unpleasant often strong emotion caused by anticipation or awareness of danger. Did you know that there’s another definition that has to do with God. In the beginning of Proverbs, we are told that “the beginning of wisdom is to fear the Lord”. Now in this case the word fear means something far different than the previous definition. It doesn’t mean we should be afraid of God, but rather, we should revere Him with awe and respect. 

            To have your faith well-grounded in scripture makes it a formidable weapon against fear. As I have often said, an outcropping of faith is trust. According to the Bible’s description of Almighty God we have absolutely no reason to not trust Him. The Lord will train you regarding how you should live with the help of His Holy Spirit. This is yet another reason for us to cultivate our walk with the Lord as if it were a garden. Stay alert. Keep your head on a swivel and be ready to defend your faith at all times.

            Everyone places their faith in either someone or something. I’m asking you, if you are still not a believer in Christ, to seriously consider what it’s all about. God loves us all, but will only admit into His heaven those who have turned their life over to Christ. Autonomy, like Socialism, seems like something wonderful, but in the end things will not turn out the way you thought or at least hoped they would. God allows you to choose; His way or your own way. He is willing to forgive your sins; you are unable to save yourself. To not choose Christ seems a little self-destructive to me. But regardless, you choose... your soul is at stake.

            Until next time, walk with the King & be a blessing.

In His Name & for His Glory,

RL Keller

Bread of Life Ministries

Is There Such a Thing as “Necessary Evil”?

 

The phrase “necessary evil” is often used in parallel with sayings such as “the ends justify the means”, “for the greater good”, or “the lesser of two evils”. The expression implies certain immoralities are warranted by the situation. Taken at face value, the expression necessary evil is unbiblical: if something is truly evil, then it is never necessary or morally acceptable. That said, the phrase “necessary evil” can have some validity, depending on how it is understood. The difference hinges on how one defines the terms involved.

Scripture uses the term ‘evil’ in two distinct ways. The most common meaning implies ‘moral wickedness’,meaning ‘sin’ (Matthew 12:35; Judges 3:12; Proverbs 8:13; 3 John 1:11). In common English, this is how the word evil is most often understood. However, Hebrew is a highly contextual language. Old Testament terms referencing moral evil are closely connected to those implying disaster, catastrophe, ugliness, or tragedy (Genesis 50:20; Amos 3:6). 

Moral evil is sin: something contrary to the nature of God. Moral evil is never necessary. No matter the situation, God offers a resolution that does not require evil (1 Corinthians 10:13). That which is explicitly forbidden by God’s moral law is neither justified nor excused by any situation. Committing a sin may be “necessary to keep my wealth,” “necessary to keep my power,” or even “necessary to keep my life,” but it is never “necessary in the eyes of God.” The concept of a “necessary evil,” taken literally, is clearly unbiblical. 

Until next time, walk with the King & be a blessing.

In His Name & for His Glory,

RL Keller

Bread of Life Ministries

Is there demonic activity in the world today?

Undoubtedly there is demonic activity in the world today. The goal of demonic activity is to draw people away from God either by keeping unbelievers from coming to Christ or by leading believers to sin so much their spiritual walk becomes more of a hindrance than an encouragement to others (1 John 5:16). Not every hardship with health, well-being, relationships, and government are demonic in nature, but those that are, are designed to pull us from God. We resist demonic activity when we resolve to follow Christ no matter the distractions.

The Bible does not blame all misfortune on demonic activity. Someone who is plagued by fear does not necessarily have a "spirit of fear." Someone who can't manage money is not necessarily being harassed by a "spirit of poverty." Someone who can't find a spouse is not necessarily being tormented by a "spirit of rejection." While it's possible that a person could be subjected to particular attention by demons, the Bible does not indicate that every hardship is a direct result of spiritual warfare. Our world is broken, and we should expect to experience some of that brokenness in our lives. On a worldwide scale, while it is possible that demons are guiding human institutions to wreak havoc across the globe, the Bible doesn't indicate that Christians should concentrate on stopping those efforts.

We are not to concern ourselves with how to perform exorcisms or expel demons from places. Instead, we are commanded not to allow demonic activity to influence us to reject God's authority over our lives. James 4:7 says, "Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you." This doesn't refer to a spiritual attack that causes earthly harm, but to temptation to sin. Job, again, is our model for this—"In all this Job did not sin or charge God with wrong" (Job 1:22). We can't control the spiritual forces; we can only pray for protection and resist the temptation to sin.

Until next time, walk with the King & be a blessing.

In His Name & for His Glory,

RL Keller

Bread of Life Ministries

Source: www.compellingtruth.org