Who You Say I Am Devotional
"Who am I that the highest KingWould welcome me?I was lost but He brought me inOh His love for meOh His love for me!Who the Son sets freeOh is free indeedI’m a child of GodYes I am!"
John 8:36 - "So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed."
Last Updated: November 18, 2024
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In the cacophony of life's demands, expectations, and challenges, there are times when we may feel distant, unworthy, or too burdened to approach the throne of grace. The song "O Come All You Unfaithful" by Sovereign Grace beautifully captures the essence of God's invitation to every heart, irrespective of its state. "O come, all you unfaithful, Come, weak and unstable, Come, know you are not alone." These opening lines, reminiscent of a classic carol, echo a divine call to those who feel they've strayed too far, those battling insecurities, and those weighed down by life's uncertainties. It's a reminder that no matter our condition, God's arms are open wide, beckoning us to find solace and strength in Him. The key scripture from Matthew is a direct invitation from Jesus. In a world that continually pushes us to do more, be more, and achieve more, Christ offers an oasis of rest. But it's essential to understand the depth of this invitation: 1. An Invitation to All: Jesus didn't specify any prerequisites. Whether you feel on top of your spiritual game or distant and doubtful, His call is to everyone. Similarly, the song emphasizes, *"O come, all you questioners, searching for answers,"* highlighting that all seekers are welcome. 2. Promise of Rest: Not just physical rest, but a deep-seated soul rest. The burdens we carry—whether guilt, shame, anxiety, or the weight of our failures—can be exhausting. Jesus offers to trade these heavy burdens for His light and easy yoke. 3. A Journey of Learning: Jesus calls us to learn from Him. He, being the embodiment of humility and gentleness, offers lessons that aren't harsh or taxing but filled with grace and mercy. As the song progresses, we're reminded of the reason behind this divine invitation: "O come, all you broken and broke, Come, helpless and hurt, wounded and worn, Oh come, all you broken and broke, King Jesus, your Saviour adorns." This is the crux of the Gospel. Jesus, the King of kings, chose to adorn, or wear, our sins and brokenness on the cross, offering redemption, restoration, and hope. His sacrifice ensures that no one is too far gone, too broken, or too lost to be welcomed back into the Father's embrace. Today, as the lyrics of "O Come All You Unfaithful" echo in your heart, let them serve as a reminder of this open invitation. If you feel burdened by guilt, remember that His arms bore the weight of all sin on the cross. If you're grappling with doubt, remember His constant faithfulness, even in our faithlessness. Whether today finds you rejoicing in His presence or hesitant at the door, know that the invitation stands. With arms wide open, Jesus says, "Come." And in coming to Him, we find more than just rest; we discover unconditional love, boundless grace, and a peace that surpasses all understanding. In every season, may our hearts respond to this divine call, finding refuge, hope, and rest in the Savior who adorns and adores us.Matthew 11:28-30 - "Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. 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. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light."
Sometimes, the path before us seems shrouded in darkness, and the weight of the unknown presses heavily on our hearts. It is in these moments of uncertainty that the soul-stirring anthem "Way Maker" by Sinach provides a beacon of hope. The lyrics echo a timeless truth, reaffirming that our God is always at work, even when we cannot see it. The refrain of the song, *"Way maker, miracle worker, promise keeper, light in the darkness, my God, that is who you are,"* is more than a beautiful set of words – it's a declaration of faith, a powerful reminder of the multifaceted nature of God. Reflecting on Isaiah 43:19, we're reminded that God has a track record of creating paths where none seem evident. He led the Israelites through the Red Sea, provided manna in the wilderness, and opened up streams in parched deserts. These were not just random acts but divinely orchestrated miracles, tailor-made for those specific situations. How wonderful is it to serve a God who doesn't have a one-size-fits-all solution, but instead crafts unique ways for unique challenges! Yet, it's natural for doubt to creep in, especially when God's ways are invisible to our human eyes. The bridge of "Way Maker" acknowledges this reality: *"Even when I don't see it, you're working. Even when I can't feel it, you're working."* Our perception is limited, bound by time and space, while God operates beyond these dimensions. Just because we don't perceive His actions doesn't mean He isn't actively working on our behalf. So, how do we navigate the times when God's ways seem obscured? 1. Recall Past Victories: Just as Israel set up memorial stones after crossing the Jordan, it's essential for us to remember past instances where God made a way. This not only strengthens our faith but serves as a testimony for others. 2. Stay Rooted in God's Word: Isaiah 55:8-9 tells us, *"For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways," declares the Lord.* Delving deep into Scriptures helps us align our thoughts with His, cultivating patience and understanding. 3. Worship and Praise: When words fail, let your heart sing. Worship has the power to shift our focus from our problems to the Problem Solver. Songs like "Way Maker" aren't just melodies; they're spiritual warfare, pushing back doubts and fears. The wilderness seasons of our lives are not meant to break us but to build us. They teach us to trust not in what we see but in the One who sees all. They compel us to lean not on our understanding but to rely fully on the Way Maker. Today, if you find yourself in a wilderness, feeling lost or overwhelmed, take a moment to declare the truths from this song over your situation. God is making a way right now, crafting paths, opening doors, and ushering in His promises. Even if you don't see it yet, hold onto the assurance that our God – the Way Maker, Miracle Worker, Promise Keeper – is at work. He is faithful, and He will make a way.Isaiah 43:19 - "Behold, I am doing a new thing; now it springs forth, do you not perceive it? I will make a way in the wilderness and rivers in the desert."
In Lakewood Music's song “Faithfulness,” the chorus resounds with the beautiful reminder:“Your mercies are new every morning, Your steadfast love will never end… Lord, how great is Your faithfulness.” These words echo the heart of Lamentations 3:22-23, which proclaims:"The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases; His mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning; great is Your faithfulness." God's faithfulness is one of His most comforting and reassuring attributes. Whether we find ourselves in moments of joy or seasons of struggle, He is unchanging. His love is steadfast, His mercy is fresh each day, and His presence carries us through every trial. The song captures this with honesty, recognizing that every minute of our lives is part of His design, even the hardest moments. Every Hour, Every MinuteThe lyrics reflect the truth that every season—good or bad—serves a greater purpose in God's plan. The psalmist wrote in Psalm 31:15, “My times are in Your hands,” and similarly, Lakewood Music reminds us that God meets us in every trial and every battle with His grace. There is not a moment that slips from His sovereign care. What we often view as challenges are opportunities for God to display His unwavering goodness, even when we don't fully understand. Through It AllThe pre-chorus declares, “Through it all, You've been so, so good,” reminding us to reflect on our past and see how God has kept His promises. When we look back, we can see His goodness woven into the fabric of our lives. Sometimes His faithfulness is most evident in hindsight—those moments when we realize how He held us together when everything else seemed to fall apart. Mercies in the Morning, Hope in the EveningAs we move from morning to evening, the song reminds us that God's faithfulness does not waver. He offers new mercies each day, no matter what we've faced. When we wake, His love meets us afresh. When the day ends, we can rest in His unwavering presence. As Psalm 36:5 affirms, “Your love, Lord, reaches to the heavens, Your faithfulness to the skies.” This hope will never fade, even as the day comes to a close. God's faithfulness is constant, and we can trust Him through all seasons, knowing that His love for us will never fail. Takeaway Thought:Wherever you find yourself today—whether in a trial or a season of blessing—take a moment to reflect on God's faithfulness. His mercies are new every morning, and His steadfast love never ends. Let this truth anchor your heart in hope, and trust that He is with you through it all.
In the book of Joshua, we encounter a powerful declaration of faith and commitment: "But as for me and my household, we will serve the Lord" (Joshua 24:15). This proclamation by Joshua serves as the foundation for the song "As For Me And My House," reminding us of the intentional choice we must make daily to honor and serve God in every aspect of our lives—especially within our families. In a world where distractions and competing priorities can easily pull us away from our core values, this song stands as a rallying cry for households to stand firm in faith. The message is simple yet profound: God's sovereignty extends to every corner of our homes, and we are called to lead our families with the same unwavering trust and obedience that Joshua displayed. The Sacred Call to Lead As Christians, we are given the responsibility to lead those in our care toward a deeper understanding of God's love and truth. Whether you're a parent, grandparent, spouse, or friend, this call to leadership transcends roles. "As For Me And My House" challenges us to examine the spiritual climate of our homes and to ensure that Christ remains at the center of our daily rhythms—through prayer, worship, and biblical instruction. The song echoes the sentiment that faith is not passive but an active choice. It's not simply a set of rules to follow but a lifestyle of grace and commitment to Jesus. It's about creating an environment where God is glorified and where His truth is lived out in love and service. Leading your family doesn't require perfection; it requires faithfulness. The Power of Unity in Christ One of the most beautiful aspects of the song is how it emphasizes unity in Christ within the household. A home built on Christ's foundation is one that flourishes in peace, love, and understanding. The lyrics serve as a reminder that when we commit to serving the Lord together as a family, we experience the fullness of His blessing and grace. In a culture that often encourages division and individualism, this song redirects our focus to the biblical mandate of unity. When our homes are centered on Christ, our relationships become healthier, our conflicts are resolved with grace, and our love for one another reflects the love God has for us. This unity becomes a powerful witness to the world of God's transforming power. Standing Firm in the Face of Opposition Joshua's declaration was made in a time when the Israelites faced numerous external pressures and temptations to follow other gods. Similarly, today's families encounter countless challenges and distractions that can pull us away from God's path. "As For Me And My House" encourages us to stand firm, even when society pushes us in a different direction. We are reminded to remain steadfast in our faith, boldly proclaiming that our homes belong to the Lord. A Prayer for Our Homes As we reflect on the message of this song, let us be intentional in making our homes places of worship, love, and spiritual growth. Let us pray for God's guidance in leading our families, asking for His strength to remain faithful and His wisdom to instill His truth in our hearts. Prayer: Lord, we dedicate our homes to You. Help us to lead our families with grace and faithfulness, always keeping You at the center. Let our homes reflect Your love and truth, and may we stand firm in our commitment to serve You, no matter the challenges we face. Amen. "As for me and my house, we will serve the Lord." Let this be the anthem of our lives, not just a momentary decision but a lifelong commitment to honor God in every part of our family's journey.
There are moments in life when the path ahead seems daunting, the obstacles too great to overcome. Yet, in the midst of our challenges, the song Even Here, Even Now calls us back to the truth that we serve a God who is faithful to the end. The message of this song reminds us that God has moved mountains before and He will do it again. No situation is too great for Him to overcome. The opening verse declares, "There is nothing that my God can't do, I've seen Him move the mountains." This is a bold declaration of faith, rooted in the experiences we've had with God in the past. When we face "giants" in our lives, whether they are personal struggles, health crises, or moments of doubt, we can draw on the truth that God has already demonstrated His power. He doesn't need to prove Himself again—He has already conquered sin and death! And because of this, we can stand firm in the knowledge that He will continue to be faithful. The chorus echoes this assurance: "God didn't lead us this far to leave us where we are. Even here, even now, He'll finish what He starts." God's faithfulness is not limited by our circumstances. He hasn't abandoned us in our present situation. Instead, He promises to complete the work He began in us (Philippians 1:6). The very trials we face are opportunities for God to show His power once more. In the second verse, the focus shifts to God's resurrection power, reminding us that Jesus' victory over death is the ultimate testimony to God's ability to overcome the impossible. It's this resurrection power that gives us the strength and faith to face whatever comes next. Our hope is rooted in the victory of the cross, and it is this same power that will see us through our current challenges. The bridge of the song invites us to turn the present moment into holy ground, acknowledging God's presence right where we are. As we lift our praises to Him, the "walls come down." This image of walls falling reminds us of the story of Jericho (Joshua 6), where the seemingly impenetrable barriers came crashing down as God's people faithfully marched and praised. Just as He did then, God works in our lives as we continue to praise Him—even when the breakthrough hasn't yet come. The final tag repeats the truth that God is "faithful to the end." This is not just a hopeful sentiment; it is a truth deeply grounded in the character of God. He is unchanging, steadfast, and true to His word. So, even when we find ourselves waiting—whether for healing, provision, or direction—we can rest in the certainty that God will finish what He has started. If He has delivered us before, He will do it again. Today, wherever you find yourself—whether in the midst of victory or trial—know this: Even here, even now, God is with you. His faithfulness endures forever, and He will see you through to the end. Keep singing, keep believing, and let your praises rise, for God will move the mountains again.
In a world where accomplishments and personal success are highly valued, we often find ourselves measuring worth by what we can achieve, how we're perceived, or how much we can accumulate. It's easy to boast in the wrong things — our talents, careers, wealth, or influence. But the heart of the gospel teaches us a very different truth: all our boasting should be in Jesus alone. The song "All My Boast Is In Jesus" by Keith & Kristyn Getty reminds us of this eternal truth. It echoes the words of the Apostle Paul in Galatians 6:14, “But far be it from me to boast except in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, by which the world has been crucified to me, and I to the world.” The Heart of Humility The song invites us to a posture of humility and surrender. Every line emphasizes that, as believers, we have nothing to offer of our own merit. Our salvation, our hope, our future—everything hinges on Jesus Christ and His finished work on the cross. In a world that says, "Look at me," this song teaches us to say, "Look at Him." Boasting in Jesus doesn't mean we live with a sense of self-deprecation or false humility. Instead, it means that our identity is fully wrapped up in who He is and what He has done for us. Our value is not in our performance but in the price that was paid for us. Boasting in Redemption One of the powerful aspects of this song is its emphasis on redemption. We once were lost, dead in our sins, without hope. But through Christ's sacrifice, we have been bought, washed, and made new. Our lives now stand as testimonies of His mercy and grace. Psalm 34:2 beautifully captures this heart of boasting: “My soul makes its boast in the Lord; let the humble hear and be glad.” Boasting in Jesus means we declare His goodness not only to ourselves but also to others. It's an invitation for those around us to see the beauty and grace of God at work in our lives. A Call to Worship All My Boast Is In Jesus is more than just a song of personal reflection; it's a call to corporate worship. When we gather as the body of Christ, we are collectively declaring that our worth, our future, and our hope are not in what we've done but in what Christ has done. The song brings us back to the heart of worship: glorifying God for who He is and what He has done. It's a reminder that no matter our circumstances, Christ remains the foundation of our lives. In every season, we can boast in Him, trusting that He is faithful, good, and mighty to save. Reflection As you listen to or sing "All My Boast Is In Jesus," let it draw you into a deeper place of trust and worship. Ask yourself: Where have I been tempted to place my boast outside of Christ? How does understanding my redemption through Jesus impact how I live today? Who in my life can I share this message of hope and redemption with? May we live in the light of this beautiful truth: our boast is in Christ alone—in His grace, His mercy, and His love. Let this song be a declaration, a daily reminder, that Jesus is our everything, and it is in Him that we find true glory. “Not to us, O Lord, not to us, but to Your name be the glory, because of Your love and faithfulness.” – Psalm 115:1
My heart needs a surgeon My soul needs a friend So I'll run to the Father Again and again And again and again Around the age of twelve, I started leading worship at my church. It brought so much life to my spirit. After I would lead, I remember God would speak to me every time, “I'm really proud of you.” His affirmation meant everything to me. And as I've gotten older, it still does. I've discovered there's nothing that compares to hearing and believing who God says I am. Now, I had a great relationship with my dad growing up and I have amazing leaders in my life. The reality is, however, they're not perfect. And no matter what your earthly father or the leaders in your life are like, I'm sure they haven't been perfect either. They can leave gaps, the areas where they didn't provide what you needed. But those gaps can be filled when the foundation of your identity is sourced by your perfect Heavenly Father. I've experienced this firsthand. I've seen God, the Father, fill in my gaps. My parents divorced before I was born and there have been so many moments, as a husband and father, I didn't know what to do. I'll be parenting or talking to my wife, Kari, and feel ill-equipped on how to handle the situation. But it's in those moments the Holy Spirit provides the wisdom I need. The Father brings insight, grace, and knowledge I didn't have in and of myself. And He wants to do the same for you. We can find our hearts needing a surgeon, needing a healing touch of God. We can find our soul needing a friend, needing someone who can handle the thoughts and emotions we don't know how to process or make sense of. It's into this void God wants to speak. He wants to build relationship with you as your affirmer, protector, provider, encourager, and healer. He wants to reveal who He made you to be so you can do what He has called you to do. It starts with recognizing your need for Him. And, when you do recognize it, run to Him! The Lord is near to the brokenhearted and saves the crushed in spirit. Psalm 34:18, ESV Based on the song Run To The Father by Cody Carnes. Original post available from YouVersion.
Shake off your captivityToday is the day we shall be freeBye bye bye byeBye bye bye bye Babylon Early on in the Old Testament, the Israelites were no strangers to captivity. They were captives in Egypt and were later held captive in Babylon by King Nebuchadnezzar. For years, God used Babylon as a way to correct the Israelites when they had turned from Him. They had seen God do many miracles in their lifetime, and still they would rebel against Him. They were convinced that they knew best. Only in captivity in Babylon did they start to see the truth: Babylon wasn't just a place, it was a perspective –– a state of mind. They had been “free” before their captivity, but it hadn't been true freedom. Instead, they had chained themselves to sin and had chosen self-sufficiency. The king may have held them captive, but it was in this captivity that they learned real freedom is found, not in their circumstances, but in their relationship with God. It would only be once they came out of captivity with this new perspective that they could truly rejoice. For us today, “captivity” can look like trying to handle and manage life on our own. How many times have we looked at our situation and thought we were trapped? How many times have we felt caged by our past decisions or failures? It's time to say goodbye to Babylon. It's time to acknowledge that true freedom and peace aren't always found in a new setting, but in a greater awareness of His presence. Only He can bring you out of Babylon. Only He can grant true freedom. Are you willing to carry the lessons you learned in this season and follow Him into the next chapter He has for you? Based on the song Bye Bye Babylon by Elevation Worship. Original post by Elevation Worship available on YouVersion based on the live album - LION.
The journey of faith is a continuous ebb and flow of drawing nearer to God, of letting our own desires and ambitions fade as the brilliance of Christ shines brighter within us. In the profound worship anthem Christ Be Magnified by Cody Carnes, we hear a heartfelt cry for the exaltation of Jesus in our lives, a desire that mirrors John the Baptist's declaration in John 3:30. The song begins with an earnest plea, *"Were creation suddenly articulate with a thousand tongues to lift one cry, then from north to south and east to west, we'd hear 'Christ be magnified!'”* These powerful words set the stage for a narrative that underscores the importance of Christ's preeminence in all things. John the Baptist, the forerunner of Jesus, embodied this sentiment. Though he had a significant ministry, drawing people from all over to the message of repentance, John always retained sight of his primary purpose: to point people to Christ. When his disciples felt a tinge of jealousy because Jesus was drawing bigger crowds, John's response was clear and humble: "He must increase, but I must decrease." How can we embrace this same posture in our daily lives, allowing Christ to be magnified in every situation? 1. Surrender Daily: Each day offers new challenges and new opportunities. By starting our day with a prayer of surrender, we signal to God our willingness to let Him lead. "Christ be magnified" is not just a phrase; it's a daily commitment. 2. Embrace Humility: John's willingness to play second fiddle to Jesus is a powerful lesson in humility. Recognizing that all gifts, talents, and opportunities come from God helps us use them to point others to Him rather than drawing attention to ourselves. 3. Seek His Glory, Not Yours: In every accomplishment, every praise, and every platform, our primary aim should be the glorification of Christ. As the chorus of the song resounds, *"Oh, Christ be magnified! Let His praise arise! Christ be magnified in me,”* let that be our genuine prayer in every season. The bridge of Christ Be Magnified offers a beautiful surrender: *"I won't bow to idols, I'll stand strong and worship You. And if it puts me in the fire, I'll rejoice because You're there too."* This mirrors the sentiment of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, who refused to bow to King Nebuchadnezzar's golden image, confident that God was with them even in the fiery furnace. Being a Christian doesn't mean we'll escape challenges. In fact, there might be situations where standing up for Christ puts us in difficult positions. However, like the heroes of faith before us, our resolve should remain unshaken. For when we stand with Christ, we are in the best company. Today, as you hum or sing Christ Be Magnified, take a moment to introspect. Are there areas in your life where you've been increasing and Christ has been decreasing? It's never too late to realign. Let's allow this song to become the anthem of our hearts, a continuous prayer that in every moment, every situation, and every season, Christ would be magnified.John 3:30 - "He must increase, but I must decrease."
I believe it is God's will to fill us with every good thing, to the point of overflowing. Jesus promised us that “rivers of living water” would flow from the hearts of all who believed in Him (John 7:38 NLT). When we are filled with God's power, presence, and goodness, to the point where we can't contain what He is pouring into our lives, then we will experience the overflow spilling onto everyone we come into contact with!We wrote the song, 'Overflow,' with Ephesians 3:19-21 NLT in mind, which says, “May you experience the love of Christ, though it is too great to understand fully. Then you will be made complete with all the fullness of life and power that comes from God. Now all glory to God, who is able, through his mighty power at work within us, to accomplish infinitely more than we might ask or think. Glory to him in the church and in Christ Jesus through all generations forever and ever! Amen.”Verse 19 speaks of this possibility of being so filled with God Himself that we come to the point of overflowing. Then, in verse 20, we read that God can do far over and above anything we might ask or think. That's crazy!This is why we chose the lyrics in the pre-chorus of Overflow:Cause You go beyond what we desireYou're reaching higherGreater than allYou're never-ending and You overflowThe question then is this: What are you asking God for? What are we, as the body of Christ, daring to believe God for in our lives right now? God can do infinitely more than our highest prayers and desires!Activity:Pause for a moment and begin to dream with God. Dare to ask Him for breakthrough, for healing, and for every good thing according to His will!In Ephesians 3:21, we read of the fruit of overflow. The fruit of the overflow is that God gets the glory in the church and in Jesus throughout all generations! When you live a life of overflow, people around you won't be focused on you – they will see the goodness of God so evidently, and give Him all the glory! Just like the chorus of Overflow says, we've got so much to give Him praise for!Now to Him, all glory and powerWe sing our praiseOver and over againOver and over again Based on the song Overflow by Planetshakers Original post available on YouVersion based on the album - Overflow.
Amidst the storms of life, our souls cry out for stability and assurance. In the swirling winds of uncertainty, where do we anchor our hearts? The beautiful song "Firm Foundation" by Cody Carnes provides a poignant reminder of the unwavering foundation we possess in Jesus Christ. When everything else is shifting and unpredictable, Christ remains our steadfast anchor. The foundation of a building is of utmost importance. It's not the part that's typically celebrated or photographed, yet it's vital for the building's survival. It holds everything else up, determining the structure's strength and longevity. Similarly, in our spiritual lives, what we choose as our foundation determines our spiritual health, resilience, and growth. Paul's words in 1 Corinthians 3:11 draw attention to the only foundation worthy of our trust: Jesus Christ. As believers, we might occasionally get swayed by other "foundations" – our achievements, societal expectations, or even our emotions. These, however, are shaky grounds, bound to crumble under pressure. Christ alone is the enduring foundation. It's a melodic testimony of someone who has found a solid foundation in the midst of an ever-changing world. By building our lives on Christ, we don't merely find a foundation; we find *the* foundation that has stood the test of time, the foundation that was established before time itself. The word "foundation" evokes imagery of something robust, durable, and unshakeable. When you look at a skyscraper, you marvel at its height and beauty, but what keeps it standing tall against fierce winds and storms is its foundation buried deep within the earth. It's unseen but indispensable. Our relationship with Christ is similar. The outside world might only see our actions, our external expressions of faith, but it's our inner, often unseen relationship with Christ that gives us the strength to stand tall. So, how do we ensure we're building on this firm foundation? 1. Delve Deep into the Word: Just as a building's foundation is buried deep, our roots should sink deep into the Scriptures. Consistent engagement with God's Word provides us with wisdom and insight. 2. Constant Communication: A foundation strengthens when it's cared for. Our relationship with Jesus grows stronger through prayer, where we talk, listen, and lean into His presence. 3. Surround Yourself with Believers: Just as steel rods reinforce a foundation, fellow believers provide support, holding us accountable and encouraging our walk with God. As Cody Carnes sings, let's take a moment to introspect. What are we building our lives upon? If it's anything other than Jesus, it's time to re-evaluate and re-build. For in Christ, we find a foundation that's unshakeable, a Rock that remains steadfast amidst the harshest storms of life. Today, choose to stand firmly on the Rock that is Jesus. With Him as your foundation, you can face every challenge, navigate every storm, and emerge stronger and more resilient, a testimony to the world of the enduring love and strength of our Savior.1 Corinthians 3:11 - *"For no one can lay any foundation other than the one already laid, which is Jesus Christ.
In the miniseries, The Chosen, there's a moving scene that beautifully illustrates the relentless nature of faith. Friends of a paralyzed man, unable to get to Jesus due to the dense crowd, climb to the roof of the house, tearing off tiles, and lower their friend down to the Savior. It's a tangible act of desperate faith, embodying the lyrics of Brandon Lake's Tear Off The Roof. The line, "Tear off the roof, the King's in the house. Just get me to Jesus, I don't care how," captures the essence of that raw determination to reach Jesus, no matter the barriers. Many times, in our lives, circumstances, doubts, or the opinions of others can crowd our path to Jesus. But the song and the scene both remind us that sometimes, faith demands unconventional methods. The chorus magnifies the unmatched power found in Jesus' presence - a power that transcends our understanding and challenges our perceptions. "There's power in the presence, power in the blood, power in the name of Jesus." This isn't mere ritualistic power but transformative power – the kind that heals, saves, and restores. The lyric "He has more in the hem of His garment, then the camp of the enemy" alludes to the biblical account where a woman, having suffered for years, believed that merely touching Jesus' garment would heal her. Her faith, like that of the friends in The Chosen, pushed past societal norms and personal reservations. Both the scene and the song converge on a pivotal truth: the environment around Jesus is thick with potential. It's laden with the promise of change, healing, and revival. The bridge encapsulates this atmosphere, speaking of the "life-changing, grave shaking, dead-raising power in the room." However, accessing this power requires more than just a casual approach. The paralyzed man's friends didn't just 'hope' for a healing; they actively pursued it. "I didn't come here to hide in the crowd," the song declares, challenging us to evaluate our approach towards our faith and relationship with Jesus. Are we mere spectators, or are we tearing off roofs to get closer to Him? In the realm of faith, desperation is an asset. When combined with unwavering trust in God's power, it becomes an unstoppable force that challenges norms, breaks barriers, and ushers in miracles. As you reflect on this song and the heart-gripping scene from The Chosen, ask yourself: 1. Determination: What 'roofs' are you willing to tear off in your life to get closer to Jesus? 2. Belief: Do you truly believe in the transformative power of Jesus' presence? 3. Action: How are you actively pursuing your faith beyond just being part of the crowd? Let the raw faith portrayed in the miniseries and the passionate lyrics of Tear Off The Roof inspire you to deepen your pursuit of Jesus. For in His presence, the impossible becomes possible, and the unreachable becomes tangible. Mark 2:4 (NIV) "Since they could not get him to Jesus because of the crowd, they made an opening in the roof above Jesus by digging through it and then lowered the mat the man was lying on."