READY & WAITING: WEEK 5 DEVOTIONS

Mari Keisling • March 25, 2023

DAY 1

“But seek first His kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.” Matthew 6:33

The troubles of this life are real. The desires of our hearts are real. The good things we want in and out of life are real.

And God knows it all. He sees it all. And He truly has an answer to it all. Jesus.

He’s not just the answer to the question in Sunday school or the Bible study. He is the answer to all of life.

Because we live in a fallen world troubles are part of life. Trials, accidents, illness, they all come again and again. Jesus said we would even have troubles that come because we follow Him. But none of these have the final say and neither do we.

We seek first the kingdom of God so when troubles come, we already know from where our help and provision come; we already know who to turn to and trust. We know who can and will bring us through the troubles of life.

We think what we do and what we have proves something to the world about who we are, our value and worth. But these are determined before we ever breathe our first breath. We are made in the very image of God, wholly and dearly loved; our existence desired by the Creator of the universe.

We seek first the kingdom of God so that as we come to know the truth about the Creator, we can know the truth about His creation. When we are confident in God, we can be confident in our identity, in who He has created us to be.

The world will tell you how to get what you want, but so often, too often it’s a winding road through self-promotion, compromise and even deception. When we lay ourselves down doing what God says is right, we will be able to sacrifice what we think we want for what is truly best.

We seek first the kingdom of God so we can proactively seek not only His best for ourselves, but His best for those in our lives, our neighborhoods, our places of work and school, our communities, and yes, even to our enemies. God opposes the proud, but shows favor to the humble. He will lift us up in due time.

If our hearts truly seek God and His kingdom first, His righteousness will shine through his people. We will truly have everything that satisfies our souls. We will truly have all we need.

DAY 2

“Let us then approach God’s throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need.” Hebrews 4:16

The New King James version puts it this way: “Let us therefore come boldly to the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy and find grace to help in time of need.”

I’ve heard it said that in Christ, we have “refrigerator rights” in the kingdom of God. Meaning, God’s house is our house. If He is our Father, His home is our home. The food in His refrigerator is there to provide for His children.

Everything good and everything right we want to be true about our earthly father is completely true about our heavenly Father. He protects and defends, He encourages and elevates, He treats with respect and dignity, He honors and cherishes. He never leaves nor abandons, He never rejects nor despises, He never lies to nor manipulates, He never uses nor discards. He is completely present, never absent.

In Christ we can have confidence that the doors of God’s throne room are thrown wide open for us, His children to enter boldly with every request, with every desire, with every question, because it’s when we honestly lay it all out before God that we may receive mercy and find grace. It’s how we obtain what will truly help us in our time of need.

It’s in trusting God, in our confidence that Jesus has truly satisfied the wrath of God that we can know in place of judgement, we will find and obtain mercy and grace in our time of need.

James says we don’t have because we don’t ask, or we ask with wrong motives. John tells us that when we have confidence in God, when we desire what He desires, we have peace in our hearts in His presence. Jesus tells us that when we ask, we should expect good things from our Father in heaven.

We have nothing to fear from God, so without hesitancy we come. He invites us to come to Him boldly and with confidence.

DAY 3

“We demolish arguments and every pretension that sets itself up against the knowledge of God, and we take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ.” 2 Corinthians 10:5

We don’t have to think every thought that comes into our minds. And we don’t have to give space to every argument that comes our way.

People have been rebelling against the authority of God since the beginning of time, and it all begins with our minds. It was the way the serpent deceived Eve and the way He stills operates in the world today.

People will argue God’s Word. They will question His ways. “Did God really say …?” “How could a loving God …?” “God understands our weakness and forgives, so we can’t be expected to…” “If God really cared, He would …”
And the list goes on and on.

And they all make sense at some level. They all seem reasonable.

And God invites us to reason with Him.

Man corrupts authority by using it to their own advantage. Jesus says that those in authority lord it over, hold it over those under their authority. In other words, they use their authority for their own good, not the good of the people.

Obedience to Christ is not about just doing what we’re told, it’s about trusting the One who’s telling us what is good, right, and true. When we respect Christ and His authority, when we truly know He has authority, we listen to and do what He says. We believe Him about what is good for us. We believe God when He says, “This is my Son, whom I love; with Him I am well pleased. Listen to Him!”

God has absolute authority, and He wields it for our benefit. He sacrificed Himself to His own authority, and in doing so proved that we can trust His authority.

Our minds do not have to be the devil’s playground. We can say “NO!” to every thought that sets itself up against the love of God, against His goodness and righteousness. We can take captive every thought and lay it before Jesus. No argument too big, no question too small. And then, in confident obedience believe what He says.

DAY 4

“Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God – this is your true and proper worship.” Romans 12:1

Jesus, our perfect High Priest did for us what we could not do for ourselves. A few chapters earlier, Paul says that we were powerless to save ourselves; we were enemies of God.

And Jesus did what no other priest could do, what no animal sacrifice could ever do. Jesus fully satisfied the wrath of God so that in place of judgment, we can receive mercy. He did this while we were still enemies of God.

And Paul says, in view of God’s mercy, with God’s mercy at the forefront of our minds, because Jesus did this, there is a way of worshipping God that pleases Him. That is true and appropriate.

It is a worship that is set apart as holy because it honors God in what He has done for us.

Instead of a sacrifice that leads to physical death; while we live, we sacrifice our sinful nature that leads to spiritual death, in exchange for eternal life, even right now.

Paul says that through suffering, which includes surrendering and sacrificing, willingly going somewhere we had not planned, experiencing things often outside of our control, and choosing to respond God’s way rather than our own, perseverance is produced. It’s what helps us keep going following after Jesus.

And this perseverance shapes our character. It’s what the Holy Spirit uses in part to transform us into the image of Christ. Perseverance allows the refining process to continue. The most purifying refinement happens in the hottest of fires, so we can actually rejoice in the hardest of trials because we know we are becoming even more like Jesus.

It sounds challenging, but as our character changes, our hope increases. There are tangible changes that encourage us that God is at work, and we know that He is not done with us. James refers to this as the maturing process.

One of the best ways we can worship God is to let Him have His way in our lives by offering ourselves up for His purpose in the world.

We already know we are secure in Christ. We already know that all good things come from our Father in heaven. Let our true and proper worship be a life fully sacrificed to the One who is holy and altogether worthy of our worship and praise.

DAY 5

“I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” John 16:33

We, at least I, often read verses like this and think of the normal daily troubles that come my way. Car problems, the furnace or air conditioning not working, physical ailments, or just a rough day at the office.

And while all these things are troubling, what I often don’t think of is the trouble that will come from following Jesus.

In Matthew 5, Jesus says, “Blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are you when people insult you, persecute you and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of me. Rejoice and be glad, because great is your reward in heaven.”

And in Matthew 10, He says, “Whoever does not bear his own cross” (being willing to be nailed upon it, for this is the only reason one carries their own cross), “Whoever does not bear his own cross and come after me cannot be my disciple. For which of you, desiring to build a tower, does not first sit down and count the cost, whether he has enough to complete it?”

What does it take to complete this building – the building of God’s temple, the body of Christ, the building of a life founded on Christ?

In the beginning of John 16, Jesus warns about the world’s hatred for Him and as His disciples, the world’s hatred of us. He goes on to teach about the Holy Spirit and praying in His name.

He has given us everything we need to endure, continue, and even rejoice in the midst of the troubles that come our way. We learn from and listen to; we engage with and pay attention to the Spirit within us. We will be prepared as we put into practice everything Jesus and first followers teach us through Scripture.

Regardless of what happens to us, we can know the One who hears us, the One who will show us how to endure because He was able to endure it all for our sake. We were worth the cost. May we count whatever comes our way worth the cost for His.

Take heart and have peace: Jesus lives! He has overcome the world.

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TRUSTING GOD AS SOVEREIGN

April 10, 2025

“For Yours is the kingdom and the power and the glory forever and ever. Amen.” As we come to the final line of the Lord’s Prayer on this Palm Sunday , we are reminded that Jesus didn’t enter Jerusalem with the might of a warrior, but with the humility of a servant. The crowds shouted “Hosanna!” expecting a political revolution, but Jesus came to establish a far greater kingdom—one that would rule hearts, not just nations. This final phrase of the Lord’s Prayer isn’t just a cap on a beautiful prayer, or simply a sentiment of respect. It’s a declaration of trust: God is sovereign. The kingdom belongs to Him. The power is His. The glory is His—forever. Even now, Jesus reigns. And though we live in the tension of the “already, but not yet,” we can be certain: God is completing what He began. As citizens of His kingdom, we’re called to reflect His rule—marked by peace, justice, grace, and truth. C.S. Lewis said it well: “There are no ordinary people. You have never talked to a mere mortal… It is immortals whom we joke with, work with, marry, snub, and exploit.” We live in light of eternity, under the rule of an eternal King. So as we wave our palm branches and lift our prayers this weekend, let’s do it with full confidence that Jesus is King, and He is worthy of our trust. Reflection Questions: What does Palm Sunday reveal to you about the kind of King Jesus is? How can you reflect His kingdom, His power, and His glory in your own life this week? Amen. Let it be so.

TRUSTING GOD AS DELIVERER

April 2, 2025

“Lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from the evil one.” – Matthew 6:13 Life is full of trials, moments when we feel tested, tempted, and even attacked. Every hardship comes with a choice—will we turn toward God in trust, or will we rely on our own understanding? The truth is, God is not just our protector; He is our Deliverer. He doesn’t just remove us from danger—He brings us to Himself. C.S. Lewis once said, “Relying on God has to begin all over again every day as if nothing had yet been done.” We may believe in God’s goodness, but when the weight of life presses in, do we truly trust Him? The Reality of Temptation Temptation isn't just about avoiding obvious sins. It’s the subtle pull to rely on ourselves instead of God, to give in to fear, pride, or control rather than faith. James 1 reminds us, “ Each person is tempted when they are dragged away by their own evil desire and enticed.” We are most vulnerable when we think we can handle things on our own. Even Jesus was tempted. After fasting for 40 days in the wilderness, the devil tried to lure Him away from trusting the Father. But Jesus remained faithful, showing us that temptation is not just something to resist—it’s an opportunity to deepen our dependence on God. More Than Rescue When we pray, “deliver us from the evil one,” we are asking for more than escape. We are inviting God to transform us. He delivers us not only from external dangers but also from the sin within us—the fears, habits, and desires that keep us from fully embracing His love and purpose. God’s deliverance is not passive. He strengthens us, refines us, and shapes us to become more like Jesus. Every test we face reveals our weaknesses but also invites us to grow. Romans 8:28 reminds us, “In all things God works for the good of those who love Him.” Even in hardship, God is at work. A Question for Reflection Where do you feel most tempted to rely on yourself instead of God? How might today’s challenges be an opportunity to trust Him more deeply? God is faithful! He is our Deliverer—not just pulling us out of trouble, but drawing us closer to Himself. Will you trust Him today?

TRUSTING GOD AS GRACIOUS

March 27, 2025

Have you ever struggled to forgive someone who hurt you? Maybe they never apologized, never acknowledged the damage they caused, and you’re left holding onto the weight of that wound. It’s easy to believe that time will heal it or that ignoring it will make it go away. But deep down, unforgiveness festers like an untreated wound, leading to bitterness, resentment, and distance from God’s peace. The good news? God offers a different way—a way of grace and freedom. God’s Grace IS More Than We Deserve Romans 5:8 reminds us, "But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us." Before we acknowledged our sin, before we even knew we needed forgiveness, God made a way for us to be reconciled to Him through Jesus. His grace is not conditional, temporary, or dependent on our actions. It is freely given, unearned, and overflowing. But what about the sins committed against us? Just as we have sinned against God and others, others have sinned against us. And just as we need God’s forgiveness, so do they. Forgiveness IS The Bridge to Healing Nothing destroys relationships faster than unforgiveness. Holding onto offense builds walls, isolates hearts, and prevents healing. C.S. Lewis once said, “ To be a Christian means to forgive the inexcusable, because God has forgiven the inexcusable in you.” That’s a hard truth. But it’s also a freeing one. Forgiveness doesn’t mean excusing the wrong or pretending it didn’t hurt. It means releasing the debt, just as God has released ours. When we pray, "And forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors" (Matthew 6:12), we are asking God to help us reflect His grace—to let go, to heal, and to trust Him with the justice and restoration we long for. A Permanent Grace The world often sees grace as temporary , something that must be earned back over time. But God’s grace is permanent. He doesn’t keep a record of wrongs or wait for us to prove ourselves worthy. Psalm 103:12 tells us, "As far as the east is from the west, so far has he removed our transgressions from us." If we trust in Jesus, our forgiveness is secure. The same is true for those we struggle to forgive. We forgive not because they deserve it, but because God calls us to. And in doing so, we experience the freedom of living in His grace rather than being bound by pain. Reflection Questions: Is there someone in your life you need to forgive? What’s holding you back? How has God’s grace personally impacted your life? How can you extend that grace to others? Do you truly trust that God’s way of forgiveness is for your good? Why or why not? God’s grace is good. It is undeserved. It is limitless. And it is meant to flow through us to others. Will you trust Him enough to extend it? Come to church this weekend as we learn how to do this together!

TRUSTING GOD AS PROVIDER

March 20, 2025

"He who provides for this life but takes no care for eternity is wise for a moment but a fool forever." — John Tillotson Every day, we find ourselves in need—physically, emotionally, mentally, and spiritually. Some days, those needs feel small: a little extra patience, clarity on a decision, or a peaceful moment amid chaos. Other days, they feel overwhelming: financial struggles, a heavy heart, or a battle we never saw coming. Jesus taught us to pray, “Give us today our daily bread” (Matthew 6:11). What may sound like a simple request, actually reveals so much more. It’s an acknowledgment that we rely on God not just for survival, but for everything we need to truly live and flourish. God’s Daily Provision Jesus reassures us in Matthew 7:7-11 that God, as a good Father, delights in providing for His children. But His provision isn’t always what we expect. He doesn’t just give us what we ask for—He gives us what we need . And sometimes, that means trusting Him when His answer doesn’t match our request. Daily bread isn’t just food on the table. It’s peace when our thoughts are restless, strength when we feel weak, wisdom when we’re confused, and grace when we’ve fallen short. It’s the presence of God in the details of our lives, shaping us for something greater than we can see. Living in Trust, Not Worry We don’t know what tomorrow holds, but we know who holds tomorrow. Trusting God as Provider means living with open hands—bringing our needs to Him daily, believing He will supply exactly what is necessary. It means shifting our focus from scarcity to abundance, from fear to faith. A Moment of Reflection What is something you’ve been holding onto in worry instead of trusting God to provide? How has God provided for you in ways you didn’t expect but later realized were exactly what you needed? Take a moment today to bring your needs before God. He sees you. He knows. And He provides. Come to church this weekend to be encouraged!

TRUSTING GOD AS GOOD

March 13, 2025

We say it in church. We read it in scripture. But do we really mean it? "Your kingdom come, your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven." (Matthew 6:10) This is more than a hopeful wish—it’s a declaration of surrender. A Kingdom with a King God is not just a distant deity; He is a King with a kingdom. His rule is just, His ways are good, and His will is perfect. In His kingdom, the broken are restored, the weak are strengthened, and justice prevails. But here’s the challenge: if we want His kingdom to come, we have to let go of our own. The Prayer of Exchange When Jesus teaches us to pray, He invites us to an exchange. The word for “pray” in this passage means to trade our desires for God’s. That means we’re not just asking for good things to happen—we’re surrendering our will for His. C.S. Lewis put it this way: “There are only two kinds of people in the end: those who say to God, ‘Thy will be done,’ and those to whom God says, ‘All right, then, have it your way.’” The question is, which one are we? What’s Holding Us Back? Sometimes, we resist because we don’t fully trust that God’s way is best. We want Him to fix things from a distance, but He chooses to work through His people—through us. Other times, we misunderstand what “good” really means. We think of good as second-best, the bare minimum to get by. But God’s goodness is not mediocre. It is full, abundant, and exactly what we need! An Invitation to Trust Praying “Your kingdom come, your will be done” is a call to action. It means living in a way that reflects heaven’s reality here on earth. It means trusting that God is working, even when we don’t understand. So, take a moment to reflect: What areas of your life are hardest to surrender to God? Do you truly believe that God’s will for you is better than your own? God is bringing His kingdom to earth. The question is—are we willing to be part of it? Come this weekend for part two of our study! And -- it's not too late to join a small group!

TRUSTING GOD AS WORTHY

March 6, 2025

Most of us know The Lord's Prayer by heart. We pray it regularly. Maybe even religiously. But we should ask ourselves: Do we speak these words because we think this is what we’re "supposed" to say? Or are we praying with the purpose of these words becoming our hearts desire? Do we really know what were declaring about God and His kingdom? Do we know what we’re asking God to do in our lives? This week, we begin a brand new sermon series, and churchwide study, for the 40 days leading to Easter. We'll be diving deep into The Lord's Prayer and shaping our hearts around his kingdom and his will, deciding that we truly want life on earth to be as it is in heaven. Here's just a tiny sneak peek at this week... When Jesus taught His disciples to pray, He started with "Our Father in heaven, hallowed be Your name." Those words set the stage for everything else that follows! They remind us who God is, how close He is, and why He’s worth trusting with our lives. God as Our Father God isn’t some distant, disconnected force. He calls Himself our Father—the one who creates, cares for, and walks with us. He brings us into His family, making us part of something bigger than ourselves. No matter where we come from or what we’ve been through, we belong to Him and to one another. Life can be messy, and relationships can be hard. We hurt each other, we struggle, and sometimes we feel alone. But God designed us for community. He never meant for us to do life on our own. When Jesus says, "Where two or more are gathered in My name, I am there," He’s reminding us that we’re never alone. A Name Set Apart When we say "hallowed be Your name," we’re saying that God is set apart—holy, different from everything else. His name carries His character, authority, and reputation. He’s not like anyone or anything else. He’s above it all, and yet, He invites us to know Him personally. We put our trust in all kinds of things—careers, relationships, causes, even our own abilities. But are they truly worthy of our devotion? Do they hold up when life gets hard? God does. He’s been faithful since the beginning, and He won’t fail us now. What Are You Living For? We all chase after something. Maybe it’s success, security, or a dream we’ve had for years. But at the end of the day, the question is: is it worth it? Will it last? God’s kingdom is the one thing that will never fade. When we put Him first, everything else falls into place. He gives us wisdom to balance our work, relationships, and passions in a way that brings real peace and purpose - because they are centered on him. Life throws challenges our way, but when we trust God as worthy—of our time, our trust, and our whole hearts—we find strength that lasts. Whatever comes next, we can face it knowing He is more than enough. CONSIDER THIS: As you get ready for this week's study, here are some questions connected to the content, that can serve as a primer to the weekend teaching and group discussion. What are some things in your life that you tend to put your trust in over God? Does knowing God as your Father change the way you view yourself and others? What definitions, pictures, thoughts, or feelings pop up when you hear the word "holy"?

THANK YOU NANCY!

November 14, 2024

Nancy Grams. For over a decade, Nancy has poured her heart and energy into serving on Northgate's Board of Directors, always with a spirit of gratitude, humility, and a strong sense of purpose. As she transitions from this role, we wanted to take a moment to reflect on her invaluable contributions and hear from Nancy herself about her journey with us!

ORCHARDS + PATCHES: OUR FAVORITE FALL DESTINATIONS

September 30, 2024

It's fall, y'all! As the leaves all change and the crisp air rolls in, fall offers us a beautiful reminder of God’s creation and the simple joys of the season. From picking apples to finding the perfect pumpkin, local orchards and patches around the Twin Cities provide the perfect opportunity to slow down, connect with the fam, and embrace the beauty of fall. Whether you're savoring a warm apple cider or wandering through a corn maze, these experiences are a wonderful way to experience community and gratitude for the season's blessings. Here are a few of Northgate Staff's favorite spots to explore...

INFLUENCED? OR INFLUENCER?

September 26, 2024

What a difference one letter can make! To be influenced means to be affected or changed in how one behaves, thinks, and develops. To be an influencer is to be someone who affects how others behave, think, and develop. Which one does God want believers to be? Does He want them to be influenced? Or to be an influencer? The answer is: both. When someone first comes to the Lord, they need Godly influence in their life. Mature Christians are needed to come alongside them, helping them understand what "being a Christian" is all about—showing them how to live out their faith and discover their purpose in God's kingdom, as well as how to live out that purpose. However, as believers grow in faith and maturity, they become the influencers to those who are young in the faith. They help others find their purpose in God's kingdom and guide them in walking the faith life they have entered into. So, what does all this have to do with cell phones, social media, and overbooked schedules? Quite a lot, actually. Many would agree that cell phones and social media are two of the biggest influences in today's culture. Consider how different things were just sixty-three years ago. Phones hung on the wall in homes, and wealthier households might have had more than one. Then came portable phones, which operated within a limited range, but they allowed freedom to move around the house while talking. If no one was available to answer the phone, the caller left a message on an answering machine. Home computers didn’t hit the market until 1977, and they were large, expensive, slow, and less functional than modern cell phones. In 1983, the internet was born, making information accessible at the touch of a few keys. In 1997, social media made its debut with Six Degrees, starting a race that led to platforms like Friendster, MySpace, LinkedIn, YouTube, WordPress, and Instagram. These advances, driven by the space race and technological breakthroughs, have undeniably transformed the world in every aspect, from medicine to manufacturing, education, air travel, and even warfare. But at what cost to society, culture, and individuals? Many of us have grown reliant on modern technologies, so much so that if they were to disappear, we might find ourselves unsure of how to navigate daily life without them. Additionally, while these advancements have brought convenience, they’ve also contributed to a shift in how we connect with one another. Amid the hustle of work, family, church, sports, and countless other commitments, finding time for genuine human interaction has become more challenging. Relaxation now often involves screens—whether it's laptops, cell phones, or TVs—rather than gathering around the table for meals or engaging in meaningful conversations. Social media, though it can keep us connected, sometimes takes the place of in-person fellowship, with virtual interactions becoming more common than face-to-face time with friends. But real relationships were the very reason God created humankind! He desired a relationship with people who would worship Him out of free will, not coercion. And in Genesis, God created Eve because it was not good for man to be alone. This craving we have for relationships is exactly what draws us to social media and shows about characters we identify with. So where's the balance? How can we be certain we are more heavily influenced by God, than by media? And is it possible to use those same tools to help influence others to grow in relationship with Him? In our "Over the Influence" teaching series, Pastor Steve shared some valuable insights on how to manage our screens and social accounts wisely, in an increasingly digitally-dictated culture. Here are a few more: TRACKING YOUR TIME: Personal reflection and change can lead to a healthier relationship with technology. Track and inventory your screen time, then determine if you need to be more intentional. One can decide, in advance, not to be too heavily influenced, but instead to become the influencer. PLAY THE ALGORITHMS: By unfollowing those who post content that conflicts with one’s beliefs, and scrolling past unwelcome material, a person can reduce negative influences without completely cutting off communication. Quick searches on scripture, apologetics, Christian authors, and other edifying subjects will also positively inform what's on your feed. YouTube, for example, offers a treasure trove of worship music, any by watching those videos, more of that nature will be suggested to you. It’s about controlling what is seen rather than being passively influenced by it. SHINE A LIGHT: Posting content that builds others up, strengthens them, or glorifies God also changes the way social media is used. Do you have a story to tell? Love a certain scripture passage, worship song, or church event? Use your platform! Share something good and engage healthy conversations in the name of Jesus. CONSIDER QUITTING: While it's unlikely that any of us are abandoning our phones for good, each of us probably has one game, streaming app, or social account that isn't helpful or necessary. Consider which one you might want to quit and get rid of it. In doing so, you might reclaim 2 minutes or even 2 hours back each week! Try making a small change this week, and let us know how it goes!

A LITTLE EFFORT GOES A LONG WAY

August 29, 2024

Can you believe it? Summer is almost over! The summer has been filled with both activities—Night to Unite, Day at the Lake, Time 2 Play—and teachings—Understanding the Battle, First Things First, and Messy Spirituality. A common thread through these teachings is the idea that godly living takes some effort. To avoid confusion about what effort looks like, let's pop in to two passages real quick... Ephesians 2:8-10 says, “For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God—not by works, so that no one can boast. For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.” Similarly, Philippians 2:12-13 states, “T herefore, my dear friends, as you have always obeyed—not only in my presence, but now much more in my absence—continue to work out your salvation with fear and trembling, for it is God who works in you to will and to act in order to fulfill His good purpose.” It's evident that salvation is not earned through works; it's a result of God’s grace and mercy, initiated and completed by God alone. Dallas Willard often quipped “Grace is not opposed to effort, grace is opposed to earning.” The distinction is that effort is an action by which we join God in what He is doing. Practically speaking, effort is a necessary part of life. All of us make efforts, either with God or without God. Earning is something different. Earning is an attitude that reasons "someone owes me for the efforts" , and wrongly believes that "I can secure what I want (including salvation) by my efforts." It’s clear from these passages that salvation is a gift that cannot be earned and that God, anticipating our efforts to respond, has even been preparing to work with us in advance. And what are His good purposes for us? To mature in faith in Him To grow in obedience to Him To bear much fruit for Him This concept can be explored through an acronym using the word—yep, you guessed it—EFFORT! Each letter represents two words: the first is the effort required, and the second is the spiritual result it brings to the Christian walk. As we will see, these “efforts” always yield spiritual outcomes in our journey with the Lord. ENERGY: Energy spent builds Endurance. Hebrews 12:1-2 says, “Therefore, since we also have such a large cloud of witnesses surrounding us, let us lay aside every hindrance and the sin that so easily ensnares us. Let us run with endurance the race that lies before us.” The Greek word for endurance is hupomone , which conveys the concept of having the strength to keep going even when exhausted. Some versions use the word perseverance, which is similar in meaning. A professional athlete trains to build skill sets, muscle memory, and stamina. Similarly, as Christians, training in spiritual matters builds spiritual skill sets (such as understanding the Bible and hearing God’s voice), spiritual muscle memory (knowing what to do based on past experience), and spiritual stamina (refusing to give up because God is with us). Three actions can help train for running a good race: Study the Bible regularly, daily if possible. Our culture is in sensory overload, bombarded with images and ideas from morning until night. This is a tactic of the enemy to distract from what is important and tear apart the fabric of faith. It is crucial to counter the world's ungodly input with Godly concepts. Romans 12:2 says, “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.” Reading the Word transforms the mind by filling it with Godly concepts. Pray daily. Pray often. Prayer is a conversation with God, not merely presenting a list of requests. It is a dialogue, not a monologue. Learn to listen to God—He truly desires to speak with us! Meaningful communication is vital in any relationship, and prayer will revolutionize a relationship with God, leading to deeper intimacy with Him. Worship every chance possible. Worship is more than singing; it is expressing love and appreciation to God. It can be kneeling, lifting hands, or simply sharing feelings with Him. Psalm 22:3 says, “But thou art holy, O thou that inhabitest the praises of Israel.” God inhabits the praises of His people, and worship brings His presence into any environment. Thus, the Word of God transforms the mind, prayer transforms the relationship with Him, and worship transforms the environment. FORGIVENESS: Forgiveness brings Freedom. Forgiveness is at the heart of Christianity. Romans 5:8 states, “But God demonstrates His own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.” Psalm 130:4 adds, “But with You there is forgiveness, so that we can, with reverence, serve You.” Without God’s forgiveness, we would still be lost in sin, unable to serve Him with reverence. God initiated the reconciliation by forgiving us, changing our status from slaves to sin to members of His family forever (John 8:34-35, 36; Romans 8:2). Is God’s gracious act of forgiveness solely meant to set us free from sin and change our relationship with Him? Absolutely not. Christians are called to bear fruit for the Kingdom, becoming the image of Christ to a lost world—a living sermon, as it were. A lifestyle of forgiveness toward others is essential for spiritual maturity. What happens if one chooses not to live a lifestyle of forgiveness? Matthew 6:14-15 warns, “ For if you forgive other people when they sin against you, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. But if you do not forgive others their sins, your Father will not forgive your sins.” Unforgiveness can bind one in sin. The story of the unforgiving servant in Matthew 18:23-35 illustrates this kingdom principle, showing how an unforgiving spirit can hinder both the ability to forgive others and to receive forgiveness. God paid the ultimate price to forgive and set humanity free from sin, making it possible to be in relationship with Him. Forgiveness is a kingdom principle that must be followed to keep the heart open to God’s forgiveness through Christ. Faith is demonstrated through actions. FAITHFULNESS: Faithfulness brings God’s Favor . Faithfulness is defined as having the characteristics of one who keeps promises and follows through on commitments. Such a person is reliable, trustworthy, steadfast, and unwavering. In Galatians 5:22-23, faithfulness is listed as a fruit of the Holy Spirit, a characteristic of God Himself. As God builds His image in believers, faithfulness is a trait He seeks to develop. Does the favor of God exist? Isaiah 66:2b says, “These are the ones I look on with favor: those who are humble and contrite in spirit, and who tremble at my word.” Humility is understanding God’s greatness and being brought low by that understanding. Contrition is feeling sorry for sins and desiring forgiveness. Trembling at God’s Word means taking it seriously and embracing its teachings. The story of the prodigal son in Luke 15:11-32 illustrates God’s favor, particularly in the interaction between the father and the oldest son. The older son had everything he needed and desired, including his father’s presence. He labored faithfully and never disobeyed his father, living under the umbrella of his father’s favor. Similarly, a believer's relationship with and obedience to God keeps them under the umbrella of His favor. John 14:15 and 21 reinforce this idea: “If you love me, keep my commands,” and “Whoever has my commands and keeps them is the one who loves me. The one who loves me will be loved by my Father, and I too will love them and show myself to them.” Obedience does not earn salvation, but it deepens the relationship and interaction with God. OBEDIENCE: Obedience demonstrates Obeisance. Obedience is vital to a relationship with the Lord and Savior. Many Christians desire a savior to keep them out of hell but resist having a Lord who makes demands on their lives. There is a growing ideology, especially in America, that suggests God understands shortcomings and is okay with them, implying no need for change because He accepts people as they are with no strings attached. However, this ideology is not supported by Scripture. In fact, Scripture teaches the opposite—that believers should be changing into a better likeness of Jesus every day (2 Corinthians 3:18; Ephesians 4:22-24; Colossians 3:8-10). The process of “killing” the old self and putting on the new self is a lifelong journey, as highlighted in our Messy Spirituality message series. God is patient, ensuring His mercy is new every morning and never fails. Obedience is crucial, but what is obeisance ? It is an old practice of making a vow of obedience by a vassal to a lord or a slave to a master, demonstrating submission to one who has authority. Paul considered himself a bondservant or slave of Christ because Jesus had redeemed him from the hand of Satan. Christians should view themselves similarly. Thus, obedience directly demonstrates obeisance, the willingness to submit to the master. While this may challenge modern sensibilities, believers must remember they are submitting to One who loves them more than anyone ever could. Jesus made obedience easy in John 14:15, saying, “If you love me, keep my commands.” REPENTANCE: Repentance builds Relationship. Repentance involves a change of mind, heart, and direction, transforming actions and attitudes. It is a lifestyle, not a one-time event. Throughout one’s life, every moment should be lived in such a way that brings honor and glory to God. Living this way is impossible without first embracing repentance. The journey begins with salvation, as the Holy Spirit convicts of sin, righteousness, and judgment. The willingness to respond to this conviction reflects a repentant heart. Salvation cannot occur without a lifestyle of repentance. And while believers may stumble, God’s mercy is always available to those who desire to return. Ephesians 4:30-31 emphasizes the importance of living righteously to avoid grieving the Holy Spirit. When believers are sealed with the Spirit at salvation, the relationship becomes intimate. In the spiritual realm, the intimate relationship between the Holy Spirit and the believer is likened to marriage. The story of the prodigal son, who returned to his father in repentance, shows how the father (God) did not shun him but celebrated his return. God’s Word urges all people to return to Him through repentance to avoid judgment and to live a life that brings honor to Him. Repentance is a kingdom principle that Christians should live by. It is a transformative process of changing thoughts, actions, and attitudes to align with God’s will. The result is a deep, intimate relationship with the Holy Spirit and a life that reflects God’s glory. TRUST: Trust builds Thankfulness. Trust is fundamental to any relationship, and the relationship with God is no exception. Trusting God means relying on His promises, believing in His character, and depending on His wisdom. Trusting God is essential for spiritual growth, and it leads to a life filled with thankfulness. In Proverbs 3:5-6, the Bible instructs, “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to Him, and He will make your paths straight.” Trusting God requires submitting to His will, even when it is difficult to understand. When believers trust in God’s sovereignty, they can be thankful for His guidance, provision, and protection. A life of trust and thankfulness is a life that honors God. Trusting God in all circumstances, even in the face of challenges, leads to a heart of gratitude. Thankfulness becomes a natural response to God’s faithfulness, and it deepens the relationship with Him. As believers trust God more and more, they become more aware of His presence in their lives. This awareness fosters a sense of thankfulness for His continuous work in their lives. Trust and thankfulness are intertwined, as trust leads to gratitude and gratitude strengthens trust. In conclusion, godly living takes effort, and the rewards are immense. As believers, let's strive to live godly lives, experience spiritual growth, deepen our relationship with God, and move toward the fulfillment of His purposes for our lives. Through energy, forgiveness, faithfulness, obedience, repentance, and trust, we can live lives that reflect the glory of God and bring honor to His name.