March 7 -- "Be Watchful – Maranatha!"

 

Read 1 Corinthians 16

Paul's final words to the Corinthians blend practical guidance with heartfelt encouragement. He addresses the struggles within their church, facing moral challenges, doctrinal confusion, immaturity, and a lack of unity and love, while inspiring them to live purposefully in anticipation of Christ's return. His exhortations apply as much to modern day Christ followers as they did to the Corinthian believers.

In verse 13, he says,  "Be Watchful" This urges us to be constantly on the lookout for spiritual dangers and temptations. "Stand firm in the faith" Here, he calls us to hold fast to our Christian beliefs with unwavering determination. "Act like men" This is a call to grow up and mature in our journey with Christ. "Be strong" Here, he reminds us not to live a weak and powerless Christian life, but to draw upon the boundless spiritual strength that comes from relying on the Holy Spirit. Lastly, "let all that you do be done in love" This exhortation encapsulates the essence of the Christian life—our every action should be motivated by God's agapé love.

After underscoring the importance of steadfastness, generosity, and love within the body of Christ, Paul's comments culminate in verse 22 with the powerful exclamation, “O Lord, come!” This phrase, translated from the Aramaic, "Maranatha!", captures the hope and urgency for Christ's return, encouraging believers to live purposefully and faithfully.

The cry of "Maranatha!" serves as a beacon of hope and an expression of eager expectation for the imminent return of Jesus Christ. Just as this expression became the rallying cry for the early Church, it should shape our daily conduct and priorities. In anticipation of Christ's return, we too should cultivate a sense of readiness and purpose. "Maranatha!" is not merely a hopeful wish but a call to action.  It urges us to evaluate our lives: Are we living in a way that anticipates the Lord’s imminent return? Are we loving others with the same love He has shown us?  Are we generous with our time, talents, and treasures, supporting the work of the church and helping those in need?

Let "Maranatha!" be the anthem of your life as you live in the eager anticipation of Christ’s return. Let it inspire you to stand firm in your faith, to be courageous in the face of challenges, to grow in your faith, and to act in love towards everyone. He is coming soon!  Embrace this hope and allow it to influence your decisions, your relationships, and your service to the Lord.

May the Lord grant you a heart that eagerly anticipates His return. May you be filled with His love, strengthened in your faith, and motivated to live each day with purpose and passion. Maranatha! Maranatha! Come Lord Jesus! Amen!

March 6 -- "What Happens When We Die?"

 

Read 1 Corinthians 15:35-58

We’ve all wondered about the afterlife – what happens when we die? It's a mystery to many, but for those who believe in Jesus, the Bible offers remarkable insights. In the final part of 1 Corinthians 15, Paul uses the illustration of planting a seed to reveal astonishing truths about our ultimate triumph over death!

He pictures planting a seed. It appears tiny and lifeless. But just wait! Once it is planted, it transforms into a magnificent plant. You plant a "dead" seed, and soon a flourishing plant emerges. There's no resemblance between the seed and the plant. You'd never guess what a tomato looks like from a tomato seed. Similarly, the dead body we bury and the resurrected body that arises will be vastly different.

When we die, it might seem like the end, but it's actually the beginning of something extraordinary for followers of Christ. In an instant, faster than a twinkle in our eye, God will transform us! Our new bodies won't be clunky, weak, or tainted by sin anymore. Instead, we'll be adorned with our incredible new bodies, perfectly designed for life in Heaven. Imagine, no more sickness, no more pain, just pure joy and wonder!

These new bodies will be unique, like the dazzling stars in the night sky. Each one will shine with God's glory in its own special way. And just as Adam, the first man, was formed from the earth's raw materials, we will be formed from "heavenly raw materials" by Christ, the "second Adam." As we bear His image now, we will reflect His glory in our new forms when He comes for us. Our current bodies could not endure the environment of Heaven unless they're changed, and that change happens in less than a blink of an eye, at the last trumpet call.

Many view death as the finish line—the unbeatable enemy. But through Jesus, death is conquered! It's defeated! No more worries, no more fearing the end. We emerge victorious. As Paul says, 'Oh death, where is your victory?'

Here's the takeaway: Knowing that our earthly bodies are temporary and that we will receive glorified, imperishable bodies should encourage us to focus on eternal things rather than being consumed by temporary struggles or material concerns. Since death has been conquered through Jesus, we don’t have to live in fear of the unknown. Instead, we can live boldly, knowing that what awaits us is far better than anything we experience here.

May the God of resurrection fill your heart with steadfast hope and unwavering joy. May you walk in the confidence that death has been swallowed up in victory, and that what awaits you is beyond all comparison.

March 5 -- "Already, But Not Yet"

 

Read 1 Corinthians 15:21-34

Let’s delve into one of Scripture’s captivating mysteries—the paradox of “already but not yet!” This biblical theme suggests that certain future realities are described as if they have already occurred, even though they aren’t fully visible to us yet. It is a mystery to us that God's plan and promises are both present and future. This intriguing tension reveals a profound truth about God's operation beyond the confines of time. Here are a few key examples that highlight this concept:

Salvation and Sanctification—Already: We’re told that God has already “raised us up with him and seated us with him in the heavenly places in Christ Jesus” (Ephesians 2:6). Not Yet: However, Paul admits, “Not that I have already obtained this or am already perfect, but I press on...” (Philippians 3:12).

The Kingdom of God—Already: “He has rescued us from the dominion of darkness and brought us into the kingdom of His beloved Son” (Colossians 1:13). Not Yet: But, “Then comes the end when He delivers the kingdom to God the Father” (1 Corinthians 15:24).

Victory Over Death—Already: Jesus “has destroyed death and has brought life and immortality to light through the gospel” (2 Timothy 1:10). Not Yet: We still await the day when “He will wipe away every tear from their eyes, and death shall be no more” (Revelation 21:4).

Eternal Life—Already: “Whoever believes in the Son [already] has eternal life” (John 3:36). Not Yet: “To those who by persistence in doing good seek glory, honor and immortality, he will give eternal life” (Romans 2:7).

God speaks in this way because He exists outside of time. Romans 4:17 tells us, “He calls things that are not as though they are.” He sees the end from the beginning, and when He declares something, it’s as good as done. Embracing the already-but-not-yet perspective teaches us to trust God’s promises with unwavering faith, even when they aren’t yet visible.

We live in the space between the cross and the crown. The ultimate victory has been secured, but the daily battles continue. This paradox should ignite within us a deeper faith, a longing for Christ’s return, and a fervent commitment to live as citizens of the coming kingdom.

So, what are we to do in the meantime? We walk in faith, assured that what God has spoken will come to pass. The promises are sealed, the victory is assured, and we are called to live as though it’s already a done deal—because in God’s reality, it is!

March 4 -- "In Accordance With The Scriptures"

 

Read 1 Corinthians 15:1-20

Who, or what, is steering your life? If our faith and actions are not shaped by the Bible, they will be shaped by something else—culture, feelings, tradition, convenience, or compromise.  

Paul proclaims that Christ died for our sins, was buried, and resurrected "in accordance with the Scriptures." This phrase signifies not only the fulfillment of prophecy but also a call to align our lives with God's Word. Jesus lived, suffered, and triumphed exactly as God had foretold. His life was not steered by human traditions, fleeting emotions, or societal expectations—He walked in perfect obedience to the written Word. Similarly, our beliefs and daily conduct must also be "in accordance with the Scriptures." The Bible is not merely a book we affirm; it is the divine blueprint for how we are to live.

God's Word stands as the ultimate authority, the measure of all truth. In a world where truth is constantly being redefined, many profess faith in Christ yet live outside of Biblical alignment. The call of Scripture is not just to believe in Jesus but to follow Him, ordering every aspect of our lives according to what God has revealed.

We are not called to live by what seems right in our own eyes, nor by what the world around us promotes; we are called to live by the unchanging truth of God's Word. The Scriptures dictate our morality, our priorities, our belief system, our worldview, and our hope. Just as Christ fully submitted to the Father's will, we too must surrender our own ways, bringing our thoughts, choices, and convictions under the authority of God's Word.

Reflect on your life: Are your beliefs truly grounded in the Bible, or have they been shaped by popular opinion? Do your decisions reflect a life in harmony with God's truth, or do they cater to personal comfort or worldly pressures? Merely claiming faith is insufficient—we must walk in alignment. Let Scripture be your lens, your compass, and your foundation. Align your heart, your mind, and your actions with God's revealed truth.

May the Lord grant you wisdom to discern His truth, strength to walk in obedience, and joy in knowing that your life is firmly rooted in accordance with the secure and unchanging Word of God. May His Word be the light guiding your steps and the rock upon which you stand.

March 3 -- "Beyond Childish Ways"

 

Read 1 Corinthians 14:20-40

Even as grown-ups, we sometimes catch ourselves thinking and behaving like children. The believers in Corinth were acting childish about spiritual gifts, particularly the gift of speaking in tongues. The Corinthian believers were acting immaturely about spiritual gifts by misusing them for personal gain, causing division, lacking love, creating chaos in worship, and neglecting the need for orderly and edifying practices. Here, he urges them to get beyond their childish ways and start thinking and acting like adults.

Paul’s message is clear and profound: we are to mature in our thinking. The Greek term for "mature" here signifies being fully grown, perfect, and complete. This means we should aim to deepen our understanding and wisdom in our spiritual journey. On the other hand, we are to be like infants regarding evil, preserving a pure and untainted nature. This echoes Jesus’ instruction in Matthew 10:16 to be "wise as serpents and innocent as doves."

Our minds are constantly shaped by the world around us. We encounter moral choices and cultural trends that can either strengthen our spiritual growth or lead us astray. It is vital to discern what aligns with God's truth and what doesn't. By engaging deeply with Scripture, seeking advice from wise believers, and maintaining an active prayer life, we develop the maturity Paul describes. At the same time, we protect our hearts from the infiltration of evil, striving to live in purity.

Worldly influences affect children and mature adults differently. Children are highly impressionable, easily absorbing messages from their surroundings and mimicking behaviors they observe. Mature adults, however, possess developed critical thinking skills and established values that help them evaluate and filter influences. Paul’s exhortation is for us to move beyond childish ways and use our adult minds.

Take a moment to reflect on your thoughts and influences. Are they drawing you closer to God's wisdom, or leading you into immature thinking? Are you like a child, chasing the next “new doctrine” or “flashy thing?” Pursue spiritual activities that foster growth, such as daily Bible reading and prayer. Surround yourself with mature believers who can guide and challenge you. And put away your childish ways!

May the Lord grant you the wisdom to grow in spiritual maturity and the purity to remain untouched by evil. May your mind be renewed daily by His Word, and your heart protected by His love.

March 2 -- "God's Gifts. Our Calling."

 

Read 1 Corinthians 14:1-19

Every believer possesses unique spiritual abilities, gifted by God. These can range from teaching and serving to giving, leading, prophesying, encouraging, and more. The pivotal question is: how are we utilizing these spiritual gifts? Are we harnessing them as God intended?

Consider the church in Corinth. They were passionate about spiritual manifestations but had lost sight of their purpose. Instead of edifying others, they often misused their gifts, drawing attention to themselves and creating disorder. In today’s Scripture, Paul emphasizes that the goal of spiritual gifts is not self-glorification, but the edification of the body of Christ. If a gift isn’t strengthening others, it’s being misused.

This prompts us to examine our motives. Are we utilizing our gifts with humility and a focus on others? Or are we seeking attention or a spiritual experience? Spiritual gifts aren’t badges of honor; they are tools for ministry. Whether we teach, serve, give, speak in tongues, prophesy, or lead, our gifts should foster order, encouragement, and growth.

Envision a church where every believer faithfully operates in their gifting. What a powerful and thriving community that would be! The church flourishes when every member actively participates. A dormant gift loses its potency, but a gift exercised in faith amplifies its impact.

Imagine a jigsaw puzzle where each piece is uniquely shaped and colored. When all the pieces are scattered or misplaced, the image remains incomplete and unclear. However, when each piece is positioned correctly, connected to the other pieces, and displaying its unique portion of the whole, it reveals a beautiful and coherent picture.

In the same way, when believers neglect or misuse their spiritual gifts, the church remains fragmented and its purpose obscured. But when each believer is positioned correctly within the body and each gift is utilized as intended, the result is a vibrant and unified community that reflects the glory of our Creator. What a beautiful and powerful church that would be!

May the Lord awaken the gifts within you and instill in you a heart eager to serve. May you use your gifts boldly, humbly, and faithfully, bringing strength to His church and joy to His heart. And may you find profound fulfillment in walking in His divine calling.

March 1 -- "The Melody of Love"

Read 1 Corinthians 13

Love is more than a virtue; it is the melody that gives meaning to life’s song. Without love, all our achievements are like a musician playing a beautiful instrument with no strings. The motions may be grand, the effort sincere, but the sound—hollow, lifeless.

There’s a story about a master violinist who once performed a beautiful solo concert on a priceless Stradivarius, considered the finest violins ever crafted with an unmatched richness of tone and resonance. The audience was enthralled and he received a standing ovation. Then, with a loud cry, he brought the instrument crashing down, slamming it into the floor and splintering it into pieces. The shards that remained revealed the shocking truth: it was a cheap replica.

The audience assumed that the beauty of the music came from the instrument—the violin itself. But in reality, it was the masterful hands of the musician that made the melody breathtaking. When he revealed that the violin was just a cheap replica, the audience realized that the true power of the music was never in the instrument, but in the one playing it.

Likewise, we often believe that our value comes from our own abilities, achievements, or status. We may think that if we have the right talents, knowledge, or spiritual gifts, then we are truly impactful. But 1 Corinthians 13 reminds us that without love—without God’s agapē love moving through us—we are just making noise. Our gifts, efforts, and even sacrifices mean nothing unless God’s love is the melody flowing through them.

We are like that ordinary violin. On our own, we are incapable of producing anything truly beautiful. But when placed in the hands of the Master, God’s love flows through us, transforming our words and actions into something that resonates with eternal impact. It’s not about how impressive we seem—it’s about who is playing the song of our lives.

When we surrender to the love of Christ, He composes a melody through us that no one else can play. Our lives become a symphony of grace, kindness, and sacrifice—not because of who we are, but because of the One who holds us in His hands. This agapē love is the essence of the Christian life and the most excellent way to live.

May the love of Christ compose the concert of your life. May your words and deeds resonate with His melody. And may the world hear the sound of His love through you.