Author - Clay Corvin

1 Corinthians 6:9-20 (NASB)
Or do you not know that the unrighteous will not inherit the kingdom of God? Do not be deceived; neither the sexually immoral, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor homosexuals,
nor thieves, nor the greedy, nor those habitually drunk, nor verbal abusers, nor swindlers, will inherit the kingdom of God.
Such were some of you; but you were washed, but you were sanctified, but you were justified in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ and in the Spirit of our God.
All things are permitted for me, but not all things are of benefit. All things are permitted for me, but I will not be mastered by anything.
Food is for the stomach and the stomach is for food; however, God will do away with both of them. But the body is not for sexual immorality, but for the Lord, and the Lord is for the body.
Now God has not only raised the Lord, but will also raise us up through His power.
Do you not know that your bodies are parts of Christ? Shall I then take away the parts of Christ and make them parts of a prostitute? Far from it!
Or do you not know that the one who joins himself to a prostitute is one body with her? For He says, “The two shall become one flesh.”
But the one who joins himself to the Lord is one spirit with Him.
Flee sexual immorality. Every other sin that a person commits is outside the body, but the sexually immoral person sins against his own body.
Or do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit within you, whom you have from God, and that you are not your own?
For you have been bought for a price: therefore glorify God in your body.

 “Christ Owns Us”

Paul’s words here remind the Corinthian believers—and us—that Christian freedom is never permission for sin. The heart of this passage is the divine transaction of redemption. Christ purchased us with His blood. We are His.

Because Christ owns us, we are called to honor Him with our whole selves—body, mind, and spirit.

1. Christ Purchased Us (v. 20)

“For you have been bought for a price: therefore glorify God in your body.”

• a. The price was His blood

“…knowing that you were not redeemed with perishable things like silver or gold… but with precious blood, as of a lamb unblemished and spotless, the blood of Christ.” (1 Peter 1:18-19)

• b. Ownership has changed

“You are not your own.” (v. 19)

• c. Redemption transforms purpose

“Glorify God in your body.” (v. 20)

2. Christ Sanctifies Our Identity (v. 11)

“Such were some of you; but you were washed, but you were sanctified, but you were justified…”

• a. Past sin doesn’t define us

“Such were some of you…”

• b. New status through Christ

“Washed… sanctified… justified…”

• c. Spirit-empowered holiness

“…in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ and in the Spirit of our God.”

3. Christ Joins Himself to Us (v. 17)

“But the one who joins himself to the Lord is one spirit with Him.”

• a. Intimate union with Christ

“One spirit with Him.”

• b. Our bodies matter to Jesus

“The body is… for the Lord.” (v. 13)

• c. Eternal perspective on the body

“God… will also raise us up.” (v. 14)

4. Christ Commands Us to Flee Sin (v. 18)

“Flee sexual immorality.”

• a. Sin has a bodily cost

“The sexually immoral person sins against his own body.”

• b. Sin defiles God’s temple

“Your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit.” (v. 19)

• c. Obedience is a response to grace

“Do you not know…?” (Repeated rhetorical urgency in vv. 15, 16, 19)

5. Christ Dwells in Us (v. 19)

“Your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit within you, whom you have from God…”

• a. Indwelling presence of God

“…whom you have from God.”

• b. Divine ownership means sacred purpose

“Temple of the Holy Spirit.”

• c. The Spirit empowers obedience

“Walk by the Spirit, and you will not carry out the desire of the flesh.” (Galatians 5:16)

How Then Shall We Live?

• We live in holiness because we belong to Christ.
• We honor our bodies as sacred spaces of God’s presence.
• We reject cultural messages that normalize immorality.
• We celebrate freedom—not to sin, but to glorify God.
• We remember our value is sealed by Christ’s blood.
  
  

“You Are Not Your Own”

The Lord paid for me.
The price was His life.
I do not own my way.
He owns every part.
He leads my heart.

Sin no longer holds me.
The shame is gone.
His hand is firm.
His voice is clear.
I now belong.

My body is His temple.
The Spirit lives in me.
The world cannot stay.
Its lies fall empty.
His truth stands firm.

I run from the dark.
I walk to the light.
His life is mine.
His cross defines me.
His love shapes all.

I give Him my days.
I give Him my pain.
I live by His grace.
I serve in His name.
I glorify Him with joy.

Proverbs 25:2: “It is the glory of God to conceal a matter, But the glory of kings is to search out a matter.”

1: God’s Glory is Revealed in Mystery
Deuteronomy 29:29 (NASB).  “The secret things belong to the Lord our God, but the things revealed belong to us and to our sons forever, so that we may follow all the words of this Law.”
God’s glory is so vast that not everything is immediately revealed to humanity. His concealment invites awe and reverence. He is not obligated to explain Himself, but His character invites us into a journey of discovery.
We should embrace humility before God’s mysteries, trusting Him even when we don’t understand.
In Christ, many mysteries hidden for ages are revealed. Jesus is the unveiling of God’s heart toward humanity.

2: Believers Are Called to Seek and Search
Jeremiah 29:13 (NASB).  “And you will seek Me and find Me when you search for Me with all your heart.”
God honors earnest seeking. It is our glory—our high calling—to pursue wisdom, to ask questions, to deepen our knowledge of Him through His Word and Spirit.
Cultivate a lifestyle of daily seeking after God through prayer, study, and meditation on His Word.
Jesus Christ is the treasure hidden in the field (Matthew 13:44). Seeking Him reveals the riches of God’s wisdom and grace.

3: Revelation is a Gift, Not an Achievement
1 Corinthians 2:10 (NASB)
“For to us God revealed them through the Spirit; for the Spirit searches all things, even the depths of God.”
Human wisdom cannot uncover divine truths on its own. Spiritual revelation comes from the Holy Spirit. It is not about intellectual ability but about humble dependence on God’s Spirit.

Submit our minds and hearts to the Spirit’s leading, recognizing that understanding comes by grace.

Christ sent the Holy Spirit to guide us into all truth (John 16:13), demonstrating His continuing role as Teacher and Revealer.

4: Christ is the Fulfillment of All Hidden Wisdom
Colossians 2:2-3 (NASB). “That their hearts may be encouraged, having been knit together in love, and that they would attain to all the wealth that comes from the full assurance of understanding, resulting in a true knowledge of God’s mystery, that is, Christ Himself, in whom are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge.”
All the hidden treasures of wisdom and knowledge are found in Christ. Searching for God ultimately leads to finding Christ, who fully reveals the Father.
Center our pursuit of wisdom and life purpose entirely around Jesus Christ, knowing that He is our wisdom and guide.
Jesus is not only the Revealer; He Himself is the Revelation. Knowing Him is knowing God.

Summary

• Humbly trust God’s mysterious workings even when not understood.
• Daily seek God with an open heart and mind.
• Rely on the Holy Spirit for wisdom rather than solely on human intellect.
• Recognize that true wisdom, life, and joy are found fully in Jesus Christ.

The Hidden Way”

I walk the path not seen.
The wind speaks songs.
The light ahead is Jesus Christ.
The way unfolds with each step.

The hidden hand shapes my life.
The whispered call to search and seek.
The mysteries are deep.
The answer is Jesus.

The Word was once concealed
Now we see His glory, His scars.  
The hidden treasures are near.
The cross has revealed God’s secret.

I bow before the Lord God Almighty.
I trust the One who holds it all.
I seek and find the hidden way.
The way of Christ, my all in all.

Clay Corvin – April 26, 2025

Many Jewish scholars and Christian contemplatives have reflected on the name YHWH (יהוה) as not only a sacred name, but a breath — the very rhythm of life itself.

1. YHWH as a Breath – No Vowels, Just Spirit

The tetragrammaton (YHWH) is made up of four consonants, but these particular letters are aspirated or soft soundsin Hebrew:

• Yod (י) – like a gentle “y” or beginning of a soft inhale
• He (ה) – a breathy “h” sound, like a sigh
• Vav (ו) – originally pronounced like “w” or “v”, softly continued
• He (ה) – again, the breath

When spoken softly — YHWH is barely a word. It becomes almost a breath: inhale and exhale.

2. A Sacred Rhythm: Breath as Prayer

Some rabbis and mystics have said:

“The name of God is the sound of breathing.”

• At birth — we inhale for the first time, and God’s name is on our lips
• At death — we exhale one last time, and again, His name is spoken
• Every breath in between is the constant whisper of God’s name, sustaining life

This reframes our entire human existence:

• Prayer isn’t only what we say — it’s who we are, with every breath
• We live and move and have our being (Acts 17:28) in the very name of God

3. Biblical Echoes of Breath and Spirit

This idea has deep biblical roots:

• Genesis 2:7 –

“Then the Lord God formed man of dust from the ground, and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life; and the man became a living person.”

• Job 33:4 –

“The Spirit of God has made me, and the breath of the Almighty gives me life.”

• Psalm 150:6 –

“Let everything that has breath praise the LORD. Praise the LORD!”

• John 20:22 –

“And when He had said this, He breathed on them and said to them, ‘Receive the Holy Spirit.’”

The Hebrew word for spirit, “ruach” (רוּחַ), also means breath or wind — and is the same word used for the Holy Spirit.

4. Christ and the Breath of God

Jesus is the Word made flesh (John 1:14) — and yet He too was filled with Spirit (Breath):

• On the cross, He breathed His last (Luke 23:46)
• At Pentecost, He sent the wind of the Spirit — His breath into the Church

So every believer is now walking, breathing, living in YHWH’s breath, Christ’s Spirit.

5. How Then Shall We Live?

• Slow down and breathe — realize you are already speaking God’s name, simply by being alive
• Let prayer begin with breath — not striving, just being
• Inhale grace, exhale trust — a rhythm of sacred dependence
• Teach your soul to listen — the silence between your words is still holy, for His name is there too

“The Name I Breathe”

I speak before I speak.
Not with words, but with breath.
The name of the One who made me,
Slips through my lips.
Not forced, not loud.
Just always there.

I never chose it.
Yet I carry it always.
In joy, in grief.
In sleep, in work.
In silence and sobs.
His name sustains me.

In the beginning — breath.
At the end — breath.
Between the moments — breath.
And all of it,
Whispers Him,
YHWH — You are.

If I forget to pray,
My lungs will still remember.
If I run out of words,
My breath will keep speaking.
Every moment, every sigh,
Is held in Your name.

1. Start Each Day with Prayer and Surrender to God

Scripture:
“Trust in the Lord with all your heart and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight.”
— Proverbs 3:5–6 (NASB)

Application: Begin each day acknowledging your dependence on God, inviting His will and guidance into your day.

2. Read and Meditate on God’s Word Daily

Scripture:
“Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.”
— Psalm 119:105 (NASB)

Application: Spend time each day reading the Bible, letting it shape your thoughts, desires, and decisions.

3. Confess Sin and Receive Daily Forgiveness

Scripture:
“If we confess our sins, He is faithful and righteous, so that He will forgive us our sins and cleanse us from all unrighteousness.”
— 1 John 1:9 (NASB)

Application: Keep a short account with God. Daily confession keeps your heart tender and humble.

4. Worship God with Your Whole Life

Scripture:
“Therefore I urge you, brothers and sisters, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies as a living and holy sacrifice, acceptable to God, which is your spiritual service of worship.”
— Romans 12:1 (NASB)

Application: Worship isn’t just singing—it’s surrendering every part of your life to Him.

5. Walk by the Spirit, Not by the Flesh

Scripture:
“But I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not carry out the desire of the flesh.”
— Galatians 5:16 (NASB)

Application: Let the Holy Spirit lead your thoughts, actions, and desires. He gives you power to obey.

6. Love Others as Christ Has Loved You

Scripture:
“This is My commandment, that you love one another, just as I have loved you.”
— John 15:12 (NASB)

Application: Loving others isn’t optional—it’s essential. Forgive quickly, serve freely, and encourage daily.

7. Be Active in a Local Church

Scripture:
“And let’s consider how to encourage one another in love and good deeds, not abandoning our own meeting together, as is the habit of some people, but encouraging one another; and all the more as you see the day drawing near.”
— Hebrews 10:24–25 (NASB)

Application: Church is not just a building—it’s a body. Belong to it. Serve in it. Grow through it.

8. Share the Gospel Boldly

Scripture:
“But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you; and you shall be My witnesses both in Jerusalem, and in all Judea, and Samaria, and as far as the remotest part of the earth.”
— Acts 1:8 (NASB)

Application: Sharing your faith isn’t just for preachers. It’s your call, your joy, and your mission.

9. Practice Gratitude in All Circumstances

Scripture:
“In everything give thanks; for this is the will of God for you in Christ Jesus.”
— 1 Thessalonians 5:18 (NASB)

Application: Gratitude shifts your focus from what you lack to what you have in Christ.

10. Keep Your Eyes on Jesus Daily

Scripture:
“Fixing our eyes on Jesus, the originator and perfecter of the faith, who for the joy set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.”
— Hebrews 12:2 (NASB)

Application: Don’t let distractions pull you away. Set your focus on Christ alone—He is your goal and guide.

The Spirit of Jesus—also referred to as the Holy Spirit—does not require a group or formal fellowship setting to be present. However, Scripture consistently emphasizes fellowship as a context in which His presence is known, magnified, and richly experienced. When there is no fellowship (no unity, love, or gathering of believers), His presence can still be individually real, but the communal experience of Christ’s Spirit is hindered.

1. Jesus Promises His Presence in Fellowship

Matthew 18:20
“For where two or three have gathered together in My name, I am there in their midst.”

This verse highlights the communal nature of Christ’s presence. While Jesus is always with believers individually, this promise is given specifically in the context of a gathered body, even a small one. The Spirit of Jesus is especially present and active in shared spiritual purpose.

2. The Spirit Dwells in Individuals and in the Church Together

1 Corinthians 3:16
“Do you not know that you are a temple of God and that the Spirit of God dwells in you?”

Paul is speaking to the whole church at Corinth, using the plural “you.” The church collectively is God’s temple, and the Spirit of Jesus dwells among them when they are unified.

3. The Spirit Is Given at Conversion—Even if Alone

Romans 8:9
“However, you are not in the flesh but in the Spirit, if indeed the Spirit of God dwells in you. But if anyone does not have the Spirit of Christ, he does not belong to Him.”

This means every true believer receives the Spirit of Jesus individually. Whether alone or in a group, a believer possesses the Spirit personally. However, Scripture teaches this personal possession is not a replacement for fellowship, which is God’s design for believers.

4. Fellowship Reflects Our Shared Life in the Spirit

Philippians 2:1-2
“Therefore if there is any encouragement in Christ, if any consolation of love, if any fellowship of the Spirit, if any affection and compassion, make my joy complete by being of the same mind, maintaining the same love, united in spirit, intent on one purpose.”

Here, fellowship of the Spirit refers to the shared life of the church. The Spirit creates unity, and believers are called to live in that unity. Without fellowship, we are neglecting one of the Spirit’s primary ministries.

5. The Church Is Built Up by the Presence of the Spirit in the Body

Ephesians 2:21-22
“In whom the whole building, being fitted together, is growing into a holy temple in the Lord, in whom you also are being built together into a dwelling of God in the Spirit.”

God’s Spirit dwells in the corporate body of believers. The building here is the church, not the individual. The Spirit of Jesus is actively manifest in the togetherness of His people.

6. Walking in the Light Requires Fellowship

1 John 1:7
“But if we walk in the Light as He Himself is in the Light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus His Son cleanses us from all sin.”

True walking in the Spirit results in fellowship. Where there is no fellowship, there is often sin, isolation, pride, or division. This verse emphasizes that fellowship is the fruit of living in the Spirit.

7. Neglect of Fellowship Can Quench the Spirit

Hebrews 10:24-25
“And let us consider how to encourage one another in love and good deeds, not abandoning our own meeting together, as is the habit of some people, but encouraging one another; and all the more as you see the day drawing near.”

To forsake gathering is to hinder the Spirit’s work in us and through us. Isolation may cause spiritual dryness, and group neglect is often a sign of spiritual decline.

8. The Spirit Empowers Fellowship for Ministry

Acts 2:42
“They were continually devoting themselves to the apostles’ teaching and to fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer.”

The early church, filled with the Spirit at Pentecost, immediately entered into deep fellowship. The Spirit of Jesus produces shared life, not spiritual isolation.

9. Disunity Hinders the Experience of the Spirit

1 Corinthians 1:10
“Now I urge you, brothers and sisters, by the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that you all agree and that there be no divisions among you, but that you be made complete in the same mind and in the same judgment.”

Where there is division, the Spirit is grieved. A group can gather without true fellowship, and though the Spirit may be present (because believers are there), His power and joy will be quenched.

10. The Spirit Seeks to Build Unity, Not Isolation

Ephesians 4:3-4
“Being diligent to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace. There is one body and one Spirit, just as also you were called in one hope of your calling.”

This unity is created by the Spirit. Without fellowship, we are rejecting what the Spirit wants to create in us—a bond of peace in community.

SUMMARY INSIGHT

• The Spirit of Jesus comes into every believer, even when alone (Romans 8:9).
• However, His presence is designed to flourish within fellowship—a shared spiritual life.
• Without fellowship, the Spirit’s ministry among believers is diminished.
• Where there is no gathering, no unity, no mutual encouragement, we miss the fullness of what the Spirit wants to do.

HOW THEN SHALL WE LIVE?

• We must cultivate fellowship—real relationships in Christ.
• We should resist spiritual isolation, even when it’s uncomfortable.
• We must invite the Spirit not just into our hearts but into our relationships.
• We are to be the temple together, not just individual stones lying apart.

“Where He Walks Among Us”

He is near when I am alone.
Still and present in the quiet.
But He longs for fellowship,
For hands to open wide,
For voices to rise together.

He comes where two agree,
Where burdens are shared,
Where prayer becomes breath,
Where truth is not hidden,
And grace is freely given.

The Spirit weeps where walls divide,
Where silence grows like weeds,
He waits for welcome in the circle,
Where peace is more than words,
And love outlasts the storm.

In fellowship, He builds a home.
In unity, He gives His strength.
Not just in me, but among us.
Not just for me, but through me.
So that His life may be seen.

Clay Corvin   

April 25, 2025

1. Prayerful Petition – “If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives generously…” (James 1:5)
   • Seeking God’s guidance in prayer reveals His direction.
2. Persistent Pursuit – “Seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness…” (Matthew 6:33)
   • Prioritizing God leads to clarity in His will.
3. Powerful Precepts – “Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.” (Psalm 119:105)
   • The Bible illuminates God’s desires for us.
4. Purposed Planning – “Commit your works to the Lord, and your thoughts will be established.” (Proverbs 16:3)
   • Surrendering plans to God aligns our path with His.
5. Providential Peace – “Let the peace of God rule in your hearts…” (Colossians 3:15)
   • A deep, settled peace confirms His leading.
6. Prophetic Promises – “For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord…” (Jeremiah 29:11)
   • God’s promises assure His good intent.
7. Precise Paths – “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding.” (Proverbs 3:5-6)
   • Trusting God clarifies our steps.
8. Purity of Purpose – “Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God.” (Matthew 5:8)
   • A heart set on holiness discerns His will.
9. Prompted by the Spirit – “Walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh.” (Galatians 5:16)
   • The Holy Spirit directs our decisions.
10. Proven People – “In the multitude of counselors, there is safety.” (Proverbs 11:14)
    • Godly mentors help reveal God’s path.

11. Patience in Process – “Wait for the Lord; be strong, and let your heart take courage…” (Psalm 27:14)

• God’s will unfolds in His timing.

12. Persevering in Trials – “Count it all joy when you fall into various trials…” (James 1:2-3)

• Challenges refine and guide us toward His will.

13. Passionate Praise – “In everything give thanks; for this is the will of God…” (1 Thessalonians 5:18)

• Gratitude aligns our hearts with God’s purposes.

14. Planted in Fellowship – “Not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some…” (Hebrews 10:25)

• Church community helps confirm God’s direction.

15. Perfected by Love – “Above all, put on love, which binds everything together in perfect harmony.” (Colossians 3:14)

• Loving God and others reflects His will.

Summation & Conclusion

God’s will is not a hidden mystery but a revealed truth discovered through prayer, scripture, obedience, and the Holy Spirit’s leading. When we align our hearts with God’s, walk in faith, and seek His wisdom, His will becomes clear. Every step of obedience unveils the next, and His peace confirms the way. His will is not just about what we do but who we become—transformed into the likeness of Christ.

Let us seek, trust, and walk in the perfect will of God, knowing that He directs our paths for His glory.

Psalm 115 is a hymn of praise and trust, contrasting the living God with lifeless idols while calling God’s people to glorify Him alone. Written in a post-exilic context, likely after Israel’s return from Babylonian captivity, it reflects a community seeking to reaffirm their faith amid surrounding pagan influences. The psalm exalts God’s sovereignty and goodness, pointing forward to Christ, the ultimate revelation of God’s glory and the means of our redemption. Today, we’ll explore Psalm 115 with a Christological lens, drawing out its directives for Christ-like living through five alliterative points: Pride Precedes Powerlessness, Praise Proclaims Providence, Protection Promises Peace, Provision Prompts Praise, and Purpose Points to Perfection. Let’s read the psalm in full:

Psalm 115 (ESV)
1 Not to us, O Lord, not to us, but to your name give glory, for the sake of your steadfast love and your faithfulness!
2 Why should the nations say, “Where is their God?”
3 Our God is in the heavens; he does all that he pleases.
4 Their idols are silver and gold, the work of human hands.
5 They have mouths, but do not speak; eyes, but do not see.
6 They have ears, but do not hear; noses, but do not smell.
7 They have hands, but do not feel; feet, but do not walk; and they do not make a sound in their throat.
8 Those who make them become like them; so do all who trust in them.
9 O Israel, trust in the Lord! He is their help and their shield.
10 O house of Aaron, trust in the Lord! He is their help and their shield.
11 You who fear the Lord, trust in the Lord! He is their help and their shield.
12 The Lord has remembered us; he will bless us; he will bless the house of Israel; he will bless the house of Aaron;
13 he will bless those who fear the Lord, both the small and the great.
14 May the Lord give you increase, you and your children!
15 May you be blessed by the Lord, who made heaven and earth!
16 The heavens are the Lord’s heavens, but the earth he has given to the children of man.
17 The dead do not praise the Lord, nor do any who go down into silence.
18 But we will bless the Lord from this time forth and forevermore. Praise the Lord!

1. Pride Precedes Powerlessness (vv. 1-8)

The psalm begins with a rejection of human glory and a warning against idolatry.

• Scripture: “Not to us, O Lord, not to us, but to your name give glory, for the sake of your steadfast love and your faithfulness!” (v. 1); “Their idols are silver and gold, the work of human hands… Those who make them become like them; so do all who trust in them.” (vv. 4, 8)
• Explanation: Pride seeks glory for self, but idols—whether literal statues or modern pursuits like wealth and status—are powerless. They cannot speak, see, or save. Trusting in them leaves us spiritually dead, mirroring their futility.
• Christological Implication: Jesus, the image of the invisible God, contrasts with lifeless idols. Colossians 1:15-16 (ESV) says, “He is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of all creation. For by him all things were created…” Christ’s life and power expose idolatry’s emptiness.
• Christ-like Living: Reject prideful self-reliance. Live humbly, giving glory to Christ alone, as He did: “I glorified you on earth, having accomplished the work that you gave me to do” (John 17:4, ESV).

2. Praise Proclaims Providence (vv. 2-3)

Praising God affirms His sovereign care.

• Scripture: “Why should the nations say, ‘Where is their God?’ Our God is in the heavens; he does all that he pleases.” (vv. 2-3)
• Explanation: The nations mock when God seems absent, but His heavenly reign ensures He acts according to His will. His providence is unshaken by human doubt.
• Christological Implication: Christ embodies God’s providence. John 1:1-3 (ESV) declares, “In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God… All things were made through him…” His life, death, and resurrection prove God’s control over all.
• Christ-like Living: Praise God in all circumstances, trusting His plan as Jesus did: “Not my will, but yours, be done” (Luke 22:42, ESV). Proclaim His providence boldly.

3. Protection Promises Peace (vv. 9-11)

God’s help and shield bring security.

• Scripture: “O Israel, trust in the Lord! He is their help and their shield. O house of Aaron, trust in the Lord! He is their help and their shield. You who fear the Lord, trust in the Lord! He is their help and their shield.” (vv. 9-11)
• Explanation: Three times, the psalm calls for trust in God as our protector. This repetition underscores His reliability for all His people—Israel, priests, and God-fearers.
• Christological Implication: Jesus is our ultimate shield. Ephesians 6:16 (ESV) urges, “In all circumstances take up the shield of faith…”—a faith rooted in Christ, who protects us from sin’s penalty: “I give them eternal life, and they will never perish” (John 10:28, ESV).
• Christ-like Living: Trust Christ for peace amid trials, reflecting His calm: “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you” (John 14:27, ESV). Rest in His protection.

4. Provision Prompts Praise (vv. 12-15)

God’s blessings inspire gratitude.

• Scripture: “The Lord has remembered us; he will bless us; he will bless the house of Israel; he will bless the house of Aaron; he will bless those who fear the Lord, both the small and the great. May the Lord give you increase…” (vv. 12-14)
• Explanation: God’s mindfulness ensures blessings for all who trust Him, from the lowly to the great. His provision fuels our worship.
• Christological Implication: Christ is God’s ultimate provision. John 3:16 (ESV) states, “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son…” Through Him, we receive every spiritual blessing (Ephesians 1:3).
• Christ-like Living: Respond to God’s gifts with praise, as Jesus gave thanks: “He took bread, and when he had given thanks…” (Luke 22:19, ESV). Live generously, sharing His blessings.

5. Purpose Points to Perfection (vv. 16-18)

Our calling is to glorify God forever.

• Scripture: “The heavens are the Lord’s heavens, but the earth he has given to the children of man. The dead do not praise the Lord… But we will bless the Lord from this time forth and forevermore. Praise the Lord!” (vv. 16-18)
• Explanation: God rules the heavens, but entrusts earth to us for His glory. The dead are silent, but the living praise Him eternally.
• Christological Implication: Jesus fulfills this purpose, leading us to perfection. Hebrews 12:2 (ESV) says, “Looking to Jesus, the founder and perfecter of our faith…” His resurrection ensures our eternal praise.
• Christ-like Living: Live purposefully for God’s glory, as Christ did: “Father, glorify your name” (John 12:28, ESV). Pursue holiness, anticipating perfection with Him.

Conclusion: Christ-like Living from Psalm 115

Psalm 115, seen through Christ, directs us to a life of humility, trust, and praise.

• Reject Pride: “Not to us, O Lord…”—mirror Christ’s humility (Philippians 2:7-8).
• Proclaim Providence: Trust God’s plan, as Jesus did on the cross (1 Peter 2:23).
• Rest in Protection: Find peace in Christ’s shield (John 16:33).
• Rejoice in Provision: Thank God for salvation in Jesus (Romans 5:11).
• Reflect Purpose: Live for His glory, aiming for eternity (Revelation 5:13).

Application: Start each day with “Not to us, but to Your name” (v. 1). Trust Him as your help and shield (v. 11). Bless Him forever (v. 18). In Christ, we’re equipped to live peacefully, purposefully, and praisefully—glorifying the One who redeemed us. Amen.

Day 1: March 25, 2025

Main Scripture:
Psalm 46:10 (NIV):
“He says, ‘Be still, and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth.’”

Adoration

Psalm 99:5 (NIV):
“Exalt the Lord our God and worship at his footstool; he is holy.”
Isaiah 12:4 (NIV):
“In that day you will say: ‘Give praise to the Lord, proclaim his name; make known among the nations what he has done, and proclaim that his name is exalted.’”
Reflection: God’s holiness and sovereignty call us to worship.
Prayer: Holy God, I exalt You above all. Your name is worthy of praise across the earth. Amen.

Confession

Psalm 62:8 (NIV):
“Trust in him at all times, you people; pour out your hearts to him, for God is our refuge.”
1 John 1:8 (NIV):
“If we claim to be without sin, we deceive ourselves and the truth is not in us.”
Reflection: Stillness requires trust; we confess our restlessness.
Prayer: Lord, I confess my anxious striving. Forgive me and teach me to trust You fully. Amen.

Thanksgiving

Psalm 118:24 (NIV):
“The Lord has done it this very day; let us rejoice today and be glad.”
1 Chronicles 29:13 (NIV):
“Now, our God, we give you thanks, and praise your glorious name.”
Reflection: God’s presence today is reason to rejoice.
Prayer: Thank You, Father, for this day and Your unchanging glory. I’m grateful for You. Amen.

Supplication

Psalm 37:7 (NIV):
“Be still before the Lord and wait patiently for him; do not fret when people succeed in their ways, when they carry out their wicked schemes.”
Philippians 4:7 (NIV):
“And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”
Reflection: We seek stillness and peace in His presence.
Prayer: God, grant me stillness and guard my heart with Your peace today. Amen.

Recap & Suggestion: God calls us to stillness. We adored His holiness, confessed restlessness, thanked Him for today, and sought peace. Suggestion: Set aside 5 minutes to sit quietly and know He is God.

Day 2: March 26, 2025

Main Scripture:
Ephesians 2:10 (NIV):
“For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.”

Adoration

Psalm 139:14 (NIV):
“I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well.”
Revelation 15:3 (NIV):
“And sang the song of God’s servant Moses and of the Lamb: ‘Great and marvelous are your deeds, Lord God Almighty. Just and true are your ways, King of the nations.’”
Reflection: God’s craftsmanship in us and His deeds inspire awe.
Prayer: Lord, I praise You for creating me wonderfully and for Your marvelous deeds. Amen.

Confession

Romans 7:18 (NIV):
“For I know that good itself does not dwell in me, that is, in my sinful nature. For I have the desire to do what is good, but I cannot carry it out.”
Psalm 51:3 (NIV):
“For I know my transgressions, and my sin is always before me.”
Reflection: We confess failing to live out His purpose.
Prayer: Father, I confess my struggles to do good. Forgive me and shape me anew. Amen.

Thanksgiving

Colossians 3:17 (NIV):
“And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.”
Psalm 92:1 (NIV):
“It is good to praise the Lord and make music to your name, O Most High.”
Reflection: We thank God for the works He’s prepared for us.
Prayer: Thank You, God, for calling me to good works and for Your guidance. Amen.

Supplication

2 Thessalonians 1:11 (NIV):
“With this in mind, we constantly pray for you, that our God may make you worthy of his calling, and that by his power he may bring to fruition your every desire for goodness and your every deed prompted by faith.”
Psalm 90:17 (NIV):
“May the favor of the Lord our God rest on us; establish the work of our hands for us—yes, establish the work of our hands.”
Reflection: We seek strength to fulfill His purpose.
Prayer: Lord, make me worthy of Your calling and establish my work for You. Amen.

Recap & Suggestion: We are God’s handiwork for good. We adored His creation, confessed shortcomings, thanked Him for purpose, and sought strength. Suggestion: Do one intentional good deed today.

Day 3: March 27, 2025

Main Scripture:
Lamentations 3:22-23 (NIV):
“Because of the Lord’s great love we are not consumed, for his compassions never fail. They are new every morning; great is your faithfulness.”

Adoration

Psalm 36:5 (NIV):
“Your love, Lord, reaches to the heavens, your faithfulness to the skies.”
Revelation 19:11 (NIV):
“I saw heaven standing open and there before me was a white horse, whose rider is called Faithful and True. With justice he judges and wages war.”
Reflection: God’s faithful love is boundless and true.
Prayer: Faithful God, I praise Your love that reaches me daily. You are true. Amen.

Confession

Psalm 38:4 (NIV):
“My guilt has overwhelmed me like a burden too heavy to bear.”
James 4:17 (NIV):
“If anyone, then, knows the good they ought to do and doesn’t do it, it is sin for them.”
Reflection: We confess carrying guilt instead of trusting His mercy.
Prayer: Lord, I confess my guilt and inaction. Lift my burden and forgive me. Amen.

Thanksgiving

Psalm 30:5 (NIV):
“For his anger lasts only a moment, but his favor lasts a lifetime; weeping may stay for the night, but rejoicing comes in the morning.”
1 Thessalonians 5:16-17 (NIV):
“Rejoice always, pray continually.”
Reflection: New mercies each morning spark joy.
Prayer: Thank You, Father, for fresh compassion today. I rejoice in You. Amen.

Supplication

Psalm 5:11 (NIV):
“But let all who take refuge in you be glad; let them ever sing for joy. Spread your protection over them, that those who love your name may rejoice in you.”
Matthew 11:29 (NIV):
“Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.”
Reflection: We seek His daily renewal and rest.
Prayer: God, spread Your protection over me and renew my soul today. Amen.

Recap & Suggestion: God’s mercies are new daily. We adored His faithfulness, confessed guilt, thanked Him for renewal, and sought refuge. Suggestion: Start your morning thanking God for new mercies.

Day 4: March 28, 2025

Main Scripture:
John 15:5 (NIV):
“I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing.”

Adoration

Psalm 104:33 (NIV):
“I will sing to the Lord all my life; I will sing praise to my God as long as I live.”
Isaiah 55:12 (NIV):
“You will go out in joy and be led forth in peace; the mountains and hills will burst into song before you, and all the trees of the field will clap their hands.”
Reflection: Christ’s life in us brings joy and praise.
Prayer: Lord Jesus, I praise You as my vine, my source of life and joy. Amen.

Confession

Galatians 5:24 (NIV):
“Those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires.”
Psalm 66:18 (NIV):
“If I had cherished sin in my heart, the Lord would not have listened.”
Reflection: We confess drifting from His life-giving presence.
Prayer: Father, I confess cherishing my own way. Draw me back to You. Amen.

Thanksgiving

Colossians 1:12 (NIV):
“And giving joyful thanks to the Father, who has qualified you to share in the inheritance of his holy people in the kingdom of light.”
Psalm 16:11 (NIV):
“You make known to me the path of life; you will fill me with joy in your presence, with eternal pleasures at your right hand.”
Reflection: Remaining in Him yields fruit and joy.
Prayer: Thank You, Lord, for qualifying me and filling me with Your joy. Amen.

Supplication

John 17:23 (NIV):
“I in them and you in me—so that they may be brought to complete unity. Then the world will know that you sent me and have loved them even as you have loved me.”
Psalm 80:7 (NIV):
“Restore us, God Almighty; make your face shine on us, that we may be saved.”
Reflection: We seek to abide and bear fruit.
Prayer: Jesus, keep me in You and help me bear fruit for Your glory. Amen.

Recap & Suggestion: Christ is our vine. We adored His life, confessed drift, thanked Him for joy, and sought to abide. Suggestion: Reflect on one way to stay connected to Him today.

Day 5: March 29, 2025

Main Scripture:
Romans 12:2 (NIV):
“Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.”

Adoration

Psalm 111:2-3 (NIV):
“Great are the works of the Lord; they are pondered by all who delight in them. Glorious and majestic are his deeds, and his righteousness endures forever.”
Colossians 1:16 (NIV):
“For in him all things were created: things in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or powers or rulers or authorities; all things have been created through him and for him.”
Reflection: God’s works and will are majestic.
Prayer: Lord, I praise Your glorious deeds and perfect will. You are majestic. Amen.

Confession

James 1:14-15 (NIV):
“But each person is tempted when they are dragged away by their own evil desire and enticed. Then, after desire has conceived, it gives birth to sin; and sin, when it is full-grown, gives birth to death.”
Psalm 119:11 (NIV):
“I have hidden your word in my heart that I might not sin against you.”
Reflection: We confess conforming to the world.
Prayer: Father, I confess following my desires over Your will. Renew my mind. Amen.

Thanksgiving

Ephesians 5:20 (NIV):
“Always giving thanks to God the Father for everything, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.”
Psalm 28:6 (NIV):
“Praise be to the Lord, for he has heard my cry for mercy.”
Reflection: Transformation brings gratitude for His mercy.
Prayer: Thank You, God, for hearing me and transforming me. I praise You. Amen.

Supplication

Philippians 1:6 (NIV):
“Being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.”
Psalm 25:5 (NIV):
“Guide me in your truth and teach me, for you are God my Savior, and my hope is in you all day long.”
Reflection: We seek renewal to discern His will.
Prayer: Lord, complete Your work in me and guide me in Your truth. Amen.

Recap & Suggestion: Transformation renews us. We adored His works, confessed conformity, thanked Him for mercy, and sought guidance. Suggestion: Memorize Romans 12:2 to renew your mind.

Day 6: March 30, 2025

Main Scripture:
Hebrews 13:8 (NIV):
“Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever.”

Adoration

Psalm 102:25-27 (NIV):
“In the beginning you laid the foundations of the earth, and the heavens are the work of your hands. They will perish, but you remain; they will all wear out like a garment… but you remain the same, and your years will never end.”
Malachi 3:6 (NIV):
“I the Lord do not change. So you, the descendants of Jacob, are not destroyed.”
Reflection: Christ’s unchanging nature is our rock.
Prayer: Eternal Jesus, I praise You for Your steadfastness. You never change. Amen.

Confession

Psalm 73:26 (NIV):
“My flesh and my heart may fail, but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever.”
Hebrews 10:23 (NIV):
“Let us hold unswervingly to the hope we profess, for he who promised is faithful.”
Reflection: We confess wavering in faith.
Prayer: Lord, I confess my faltering trust. Strengthen my hope in You. Amen.

Thanksgiving

Psalm 136:26 (NIV):
“Give thanks to the God of heaven. His love endures forever.”
1 Corinthians 15:57 (NIV):
“But thanks be to God! He gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.”
Reflection: His constancy gives us victory and thanks.
Prayer: Thank You, Jesus, for Your enduring love and victory. I’m grateful. Amen.

Supplication

Isaiah 26:3 (NIV):
“You will keep in perfect peace those whose minds are steadfast, because they trust in you.”
Jude 1:24 (NIV):
“To him who is able to keep you from stumbling and to present you before his glorious presence without fault and with great joy.”
Reflection: We seek peace in His unchanging care.
Prayer: Lord, keep me steadfast and present me faultless. Grant me peace. Amen.

Recap & Suggestion: Jesus is unchanging. We adored His eternity, confessed wavering, thanked Him for victory, and sought peace. Suggestion: Reflect on one way He’s been constant in your life.

Day 7: March 31, 2025

Main Scripture:
Psalm 34:18 (NIV):
“The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.”

Adoration

Psalm 147:3 (NIV):
“He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds.”
Isaiah 57:15 (NIV):
“For this is what the high and exalted One says—he who lives forever, whose name is holy: ‘I live in a high and holy place, but also with the one who is contrite and lowly in spirit, to revive the spirit of the lowly and to revive the heart of the contrite.’”
Reflection: God’s nearness to the hurting is holy.
Prayer: Healing Lord, I praise You for Your nearness and care. You revive me. Amen.

Confession

Psalm 42:5 (NIV):
“Why, my soul, are you downcast? Why so disturbed within me? Put your hope in God, for I will yet praise him, my Savior and my God.”
1 Peter 5:6 (NIV):
“Humble yourselves, therefore, under God’s mighty hand, that he may lift you up in due time.”
Reflection: We confess despair over hope.
Prayer: Father, I confess my downcast spirit. Lift me with Your hope. Amen.

Thanksgiving

Psalm 9:9-10 (NIV):
“The Lord is a refuge for the oppressed, a stronghold in times of trouble. Those who know your name trust in you, for you, Lord, have never forsaken those who seek you.”
2 Corinthians 1:3-4 (NIV):
“Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves receive from God.”
Reflection: His comfort fuels our thanks.
Prayer: Thank You, God, for comforting me and never forsaking me. Amen.

Supplication

Psalm 55:1-2 (NIV):
“Listen to my prayer, O God, do not ignore my plea; hear me and answer me. My thoughts trouble me and I am distraught.”
John 16:20 (NIV):
“Very truly I tell you, you will weep and mourn while the world rejoices. You will grieve, but your grief will turn to joy.”
Reflection: We seek His saving nearness.
Prayer: Lord, be close to my brokenness and turn my grief to joy. Amen.

Recap & Suggestion: God is near the broken. We adored His healing, confessed despair, thanked Him for comfort, and sought joy. Suggestion: Comfort someone hurting today.

Day 8: April 1, 2025

Main Scripture:
James 1:17 (NIV):
“Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows.”

Adoration

Psalm 145:9 (NIV):
“The Lord is good to all; he has compassion on all he has made.”
Revelation 4:8 (NIV):
“Each of the four living creatures had six wings and was covered with eyes all around, even under its wings. Day and night they never stop saying: ‘Holy, holy, holy is the Lord God Almighty, who was, and is, and is to come.’”
Reflection: God’s goodness and holiness shine eternally.
Prayer: Holy Father, I praise Your goodness and unchanging light. Amen.

Confession

Romans 1:21 (NIV):
“For although they knew God, they neither glorified him as God nor gave thanks to him, but their thinking became futile and their foolish hearts were darkened.”
Psalm 106:1 (NIV):
“Praise the Lord. Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good; his love endures forever.”
Reflection: We confess ingratitude for His gifts.
Prayer: Lord, I confess overlooking Your gifts. Forgive my ungrateful heart. Amen.

Thanksgiving

Psalm 107:8-9 (NIV):
“Let them give thanks to the Lord for his unfailing love and his wonderful deeds for mankind, for he satisfies the thirsty and fills the hungry with good things.”
1 Thessalonians 1:2 (NIV):
“We always thank God for all of you and continually mention you in our prayers.”
Reflection: Every gift reflects His love.
Prayer: Thank You, Father, for Your good gifts and unfailing love. Amen.

Supplication

Matthew 7:11 (NIV):
“If you, then, though you are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father in heaven give good gifts to those who ask him!”
Psalm 20:4 (NIV):
“May he give you the desire of your heart and make all your plans succeed.”
Reflection: We seek His generous provision.
Prayer: God, grant me Your good gifts and align my desires with Yours. Amen.

Recap & Suggestion: All good comes from God. We adored His goodness, confessed ingratitude, thanked Him for gifts, and sought provision. Suggestion: List three gifts from God today.

Day 9: April 2, 2025

Main Scripture:
Isaiah 41:10 (NIV):
“So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.”

Adoration

Psalm 89:8 (NIV):
“Who is like you, Lord God Almighty? You, Lord, are mighty, and your faithfulness surrounds you.”
Exodus 15:11 (NIV):
“Who among the gods is like you, Lord? Who is like you—majestic in holiness, awesome in glory, working wonders?”
Reflection: God’s might and presence awe us.
Prayer: Mighty Lord, I praise Your holiness and strength. You are unmatched. Amen.

Confession

Psalm 56:4 (NIV):
“In God, whose word I praise—in God I trust and am not afraid. What can mere mortals do to me?”
Mark 4:40 (NIV):
“He said to his disciples, ‘Why are you so afraid? Do you still have no faith?’”
Reflection: We confess fear over faith.
Prayer: Father, I confess my fearfulness. Increase my trust in You. Amen.

Thanksgiving

Psalm 27:1 (NIV):
“The Lord is my light and my salvation—whom shall I fear? The Lord is the stronghold of my life—of whom shall I be afraid?”
2 Timothy 1:7 (NIV):
“For the Spirit God gave us does not make us timid, but gives us power, love and self-discipline.”
Reflection: His strength banishes fear.
Prayer: Thank You, God, for being my light and strength. I’m fearless in You. Amen.

Supplication

Psalm 138:8 (NIV):
“The Lord will vindicate me; your love, Lord, endures forever—do not abandon the works of your hands.”
Joshua 1:9 (NIV):
“Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.”
Reflection: We seek His upholding hand.
Prayer: Lord, strengthen and uphold me today. Be with those who fear. Amen.

Recap & Suggestion: God banishes fear. We adored His might, confessed fear, thanked Him for strength, and sought courage. Suggestion: Speak Isaiah 41:10 aloud when afraid.

Day 10: April 3, 2025

Main Scripture:
Philippians 4:19 (NIV):
“And my God will meet all your needs according to the riches of his glory in Christ Jesus.”

Adoration

Psalm 145:16 (NIV):
“You open your hand and satisfy the desires of every living thing.”
Revelation 5:12 (NIV):
“In a loud voice they were saying: ‘Worthy is the Lamb, who was slain, to receive power and wealth and wisdom and strength and honor and glory and praise!’”
Reflection: God’s provision and worthiness amaze us.
Prayer: Worthy Lamb, I praise You for Your rich provision and glory. Amen.

Confession

Matthew 6:31-32 (NIV):
“So do not worry, saying, ‘What shall we eat?’ or ‘What shall we drink?’ or ‘What shall we wear?’ For the pagans run after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them.”
Psalm 39:5 (NIV):
“You have made my days a mere handbreadth; the span of my years is as nothing before you. Everyone’s life is but a breath.”
Reflection: We confess worrying about needs.
Prayer: Lord, I confess my worry over needs. Forgive me and teach me trust. Amen.

Thanksgiving

Psalm 23:5 (NIV):
“You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies. You anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows.”
Ephesians 1:3 (NIV):
“Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us in the heavenly realms with every spiritual blessing in Christ.”
Reflection: His abundance overflows in us.
Prayer: Thank You, Father, for meeting my needs and blessing me richly. Amen.

Supplication

Psalm 84:11 (NIV):
“For the Lord God is a sun and shield; the Lord bestows favor and honor; no good thing does he withhold from those whose walk is blameless.”
Matthew 6:11 (NIV):
“Give us today our daily bread.”
Reflection: We seek His daily provision.
Prayer: God, meet my needs today and provide for those in lack. Amen.

Recap & Suggestion: God meets all needs. We adored His riches, confessed worry, thanked Him for abundance, and sought provision. Suggestion: Pray for one specific need today.

Scripture: 1 John 4:18 (NIV)

“There is no fear in love. But perfect love drives out fear, because fear has to do with punishment. The one who fears is not made perfect in love.”

Introduction

Good morning, friends. Today, we’re exploring the transformative truth of 1 John 4:18. This verse reveals how God’s perfect love can free us from fear and shape the way we live. Let’s break it down step by step and see what it means for us.

Message

1. “There is no fear in love”
   The verse begins with a bold statement: “There is no fear in love.” Fear is a familiar enemy—fear of failure, rejection, or the future can weigh us down. But John tells us that true love, God’s love, leaves no room for fear. It’s not a fragile love that shifts with circumstances; it’s a constant, unshakable force. When we root ourselves in this love, fear loses its power over us.
2. “But perfect love drives out fear”
   Next, John says, “But perfect love drives out fear.” This isn’t a passive process—the phrase “drives out” means to cast out forcefully, to banish completely. The perfect love here is God’s love, flawless and infinite. Picture a bright light flooding a dark room—darkness doesn’t linger. In the same way, when God’s love fills us, it expels fear entirely.
3. “Because fear has to do with punishment”
   Why does this happen? John explains, “because fear has to do with punishment.” Fear often stems from guilt or the dread of judgment. We might worry we’re not enough or that we’ll face condemnation. But Jesus took our punishment on the cross. Romans 8:1 assures us, “There is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus.” When we trust in God’s love, the fear of punishment dissolves.
4. “The one who fears is not made perfect in love”
   Finally, John concludes, “The one who fears is not made perfect in love.” This isn’t a harsh judgment—it’s an invitation to grow. If fear still dominates us, it shows we haven’t fully embraced God’s love. Being “made perfect in love” is a process of trusting Him more deeply, letting His love mature us. It’s not about perfection in ourselves, but about resting in His perfect love.

Application: Living Fearlessly in Love

What does this mean for us today?

• First, let’s search our hearts. Where are we letting fear linger? Bring those fears to Jesus, where His love overcomes them.
• Second, let’s love others with this same fearless love. Secure in God’s acceptance, we can forgive, serve, and care without hesitation.

Conclusion

Friends, 1 John 4:18 offers us a promise: God’s perfect love drives out fear. As we step into this week, let’s cling to that love, trust it fully, and share it boldly. When fear comes knocking, let’s respond with the love of Christ—and watch it flee.

Let us pray: Heavenly Father, thank You for Your perfect love that casts out all fear. Help us to live in it, trust it, and extend it to others. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Psalm 1:1-6
1 Blessed is the man
who walks not in the counsel of the wicked,
nor stands in the way of sinners,
nor sits in the seat of scoffers;
2 but his delight is in the law of the Lord,
and on his law he meditates day and night.
3 He is like a tree
planted by streams of water
that yields its fruit in its season,
and its leaf does not wither.
In all that he does, he prospers.
4 The wicked are not so,
but are like chaff that the wind drives away.
5 Therefore the wicked will not stand in the judgment,
nor sinners in the congregation of the righteous;
6 for the Lord knows the way of the righteous,
but the way of the wicked will perish.

Exegesis

1. Blessed Behavior (v. 1)
   1. The psalm opens with a beatitude: “Blessed is the man.” This blessedness comes from rejecting three progressive stages of evil: walking in wicked counsel, standing with sinners, and sitting with scoffers. Each verb (walks, stands, sits) shows a deepening entanglement with sin, which the righteous avoid.
   The “wicked” devise evil plans, “sinners” act on them, and “scoffers” mock God’s truth. The righteous person chooses separation from this path. 
2. Delightful Devotion (v. 2)
   1. Instead of evil, the blessed man delights in “the law of the Lord” (Torah), God’s revealed will. This delight isn’t grudging obedience but joyful engagement, marked by constant meditation “day and night.”
   1. Meditation here implies murmuring or pondering aloud, a wholehearted immersion in God’s Word, shaping thoughts and actions.
3. Thriving Tree (v. 3)
   1. The righteous are compared to a tree planted by water—stable, fruitful, and enduring. “Planted” suggests intentional placement by God, while “streams of water” symbolize His sustaining grace. Fruit comes “in its season,” showing patience, and unwithered leaves indicate resilience.
   1. “In all that he does, he prospers” promises success aligned with God’s will, not worldly gain.
4. Wicked Wasted (vv. 4-5)
   1. In contrast, the wicked are “like chaff”—light, rootless, and blown away by wind. Chaff is the useless husk separated from grain, symbolizing transience and worthlessness.
   1. They “will not stand in the judgment” nor join the “congregation of the righteous,” indicating exclusion from God’s presence and people in the final reckoning.
5. Known and Kept (v. 6)
   1. The Lord “knows” the way of the righteous—an intimate, protective knowledge, implying approval and guidance. Conversely, the “way of the wicked will perish,” a final end to their path.
   1. This verse underscores God’s sovereignty and the ultimate destinies of both paths.

Christological Implications

Psalm 1 points to Christ as the ultimate fulfillment of the “blessed man”:

• Perfect Righteousness: Jesus never walked in wicked counsel, stood with sinners in rebellion, or sat with scoffers. He resisted temptation (Matt. 4:1-11) and lived sinlessly (Heb. 4:15).
• Delight in God’s Law: Christ delighted in and fulfilled the Law (Matt. 5:17), meditating on it perfectly as the Word incarnate (John 1:1).
• Fruitful Life: Like the tree, Jesus bore fruit—salvation for humanity—through His life, death, and resurrection (John 15:5).
• Judgment of the Wicked: As the Judge (John 5:22), Christ will separate the chaff from the wheat (Matt. 3:12), fulfilling verses 4-5.
• Known by the Father: The Father knows and approves Christ’s way (Matt. 3:17), and through Him, the righteous are known (John 10:14).
  Thus, Psalm 1 prefigures Christ as the ideal righteous man and the means by which we enter the blessed path.

How Then Should We Live?

1. Reject Sinful Influences: Avoid conformity to the world’s ways (Rom. 12:2), seeking godly counsel instead.
2. Delight in Scripture: Make God’s Word our joy and constant meditation (Col. 3:16), shaping our lives.
3. Depend on God’s Grace: Like a tree by water, rely on Christ’s sustenance (John 7:38) for growth and resilience.
4. Pursue Fruitful Living: Bear fruit for God’s glory (Gal. 5:22-23), trusting His timing.
5. Trust God’s Judgment: Live confidently in Christ, knowing He knows our way and will judge the wicked (2 Tim. 4:8).

“The Way of the Righteous”

The man who loves God’s way
Turns from evil words and deeds.
His heart seeks truth.
God plants him and grows him for eternity.

God’s words fill his mind.
He thinks on them all the time.
Joy fills their mind.
His soul is blessed, he is God’s child.

A tree stands by the stream.
Its roots drink their fill.
Leaves glow in the beam.
Fruit comes where it belongs.

The wicked drift like dust.
Wind takes them far away.
No root, no hope, no trust.
Their path fades..

God sees the good man’s road.
He guards it with His hand.
The bad carry a load.
Their end is eternal death.

Choose the path of light.
Walk where the water flows.
Keep God’s law.
Life in God’s care grows.

Evil calls noisily.
Its voice pulls our soul.
The wise hear God’s voice.
Their peace lasts forever.

Roots sink in the ground.
Storms do not break.
There is strength in God.
He gives more than we take.

Fruit shows in its time.
Patience marks the good way.
Leaves lift in their prime.
God’s help is here to stay.

Two paths split apart.
One lives, one falls to night.
God knows every heart.
The righteous are in His sight.

Clay Corvin
http;//www.todaysgoodnews.com