Author: Chad Bandy

(Based on 2 Corinthians 7:9–10)

Brothers and sisters in Christ, we are not called to comfort without conviction, nor to grace without growth. In 2 Corinthians 7:9–10, Paul reminds us that godly sorrow is a gift—a divine catalyst that leads us to repentance and life. It is not shame for shame’s sake, but a holy stirring of the heart that moves us away from sin and toward the arms of our Savior.

Too often, we settle for worldly sorrow—the kind that mourns consequences but not the sin itself. This sorrow leaves us stuck in guilt, bitterness, and regret. But godly sorrow? It leads to transformation. It awakens us to the reality of our need for grace and produces in us a changed life, marked by holiness, humility, and obedience.

Now is the time to examine your heart. What needs to be surrendered? What relationships need to be restored? What habits or hidden compromises are holding you back from the fullness of life in Christ? Don’t resist conviction—welcome it as a sign of God’s deep love for you. His correction is never to crush, but to restore.

Let today be a turning point. Don’t delay repentance. Let godly sorrow run its course—let it purify your intentions, renew your spirit, and ignite your passion for righteousness. From it flows freedom, joy, and peace that the world cannot offer.

Walk boldly in the grace that repentance brings. Be an example of what it looks like to be shaped by truth and love. Let your life shout the testimony of a heart that was broken, healed, and made new by Jesus.

Godly sorrow leads to salvation and leaves no regret. So rise, repent, and rejoice—your Savior is waiting.

Written with the assistance of ChatGPT

Psalm 38 paints a raw and honest picture of King David—a man burdened by the weight of his own mistakes. Far from the image of a mighty king, David here is crushed by guilt, physically and emotionally broken, and abandoned by those around him. His pain feels familiar to anyone who has lived through the consequences of poor choices—whether a broken relationship, addiction, betrayal, or moral failure. Like a modern individual facing the fallout of a public or personal mistake, David doesn’t hide from his guilt; he lays it bare before God.

David says, “My guilt has overwhelmed me like a burden too heavy to bear” (v. 4), echoing the cry of a heart that knows it’s gone off course. He suffers not just spiritually but physically and emotionally. His health declines, friends keep their distance, and enemies seek to take advantage. Today, someone might relate to this in the form of depression, chronic stress, or isolation caused by shame or damaged reputation.

Yet David doesn’t stay in despair. One of the most powerful takeaways from Psalm 38 is that he brings his brokenness to God. “Lord, I wait for you; you will answer, Lord my God” (v. 15). He knows that despite his failures, mercy is still possible.

In a world quick to judge and slow to forgive, Psalm 38 reminds us that true healing starts with honest confession and hope in God’s unfailing grace. Like David, we are not defined by our lowest moments. Instead, we are invited to bring our pain, guilt, and regret to the One who sees us fully—and still chooses to redeem. David’s story, like ours, is ultimately not about failure, but about God’s faithfulness through it.

Written with the assistance of ChatGPT.

Today’s Reading: 1 Corinthians 11

How awesome that by the publishing of this post, we will celebrate the marriage this weekend of our daughter. We are very blessed and happy that our daughter is marrying a Godly-man and their faith in Jesus Christ is a central part of their relationship. Praise God!

Marriage, as designed by God, is a sacred covenant that reflects His character, order, and love. From the beginning, Scripture teaches that marriage is not merely a social contract, but a divine institution created by God to unite a man and woman in a lifelong, faithful partnership (Genesis 2:24). At its core, marriage reflects the covenant relationship between Christ and His Church (Ephesians 5:25-32), built on love, sacrifice, mutual respect, and spiritual unity.

God’s design for marriage begins with headship and partnership. In 1 Corinthians 11:3, Paul outlines a spiritual order: “the head of every man is Christ, the head of a woman is man, and the head of Christ is God.” This structure reflects not superiority, but divine alignment. Just as Jesus submits to the Father in love and unity, so are husbands called to lovingly lead their wives, and wives to respond with respect and support. This mutual submission (Ephesians 5:21) fosters unity, trust, and flourishing.

Marriage is also a sanctifying relationship, where both spouses are shaped more into the image of Christ. Through selfless service, forgiveness, and shared spiritual pursuit, a husband and wife grow in faith together. God calls couples to love each other deeply, bear with one another’s weaknesses, and remain faithful through all seasons.

At its heart, God’s spiritual design for marriage is about reflecting His love to the world. A Christ-centered marriage puts God first, values prayer and Scripture, and commits to building a home grounded in grace and truth. It is a daily choice to love as Christ loves—sacrificially, joyfully, and unconditionally.

When couples honor this design, their marriage becomes more than companionship—it becomes a testimony of God’s glory, faithfulness, and redeeming love.

Written with the assistance of ChatGPT

The cross of Christ stands as the ultimate paradox: a symbol of shame and suffering that reveals the wisdom and power of God. At its center lies a truth that defies human logic—salvation through sacrifice, victory through death, glory through humility. The world esteems power, status, and intellect, yet God chose what is “foolish” in the eyes of the world to shame the wise and the strong (1 Corinthians 1:27). In doing so, He exposes the emptiness of human pride and redirects our hope to what truly matters: Christ crucified.

Worldly thinking prioritizes self—self-reliance, self-glory, and self-promotion. It seeks answers in human achievement and reason, measuring worth by influence, wealth, or success. But the message of the cross calls us to a different standard. It confronts us with our sin, humbles our ambitions, and demands surrender. At the cross, we see that our deepest need cannot be met by human effort, but only by divine grace.

To live by the cross is to live counter-culturally. It means rejecting the temptation to find identity in anything other than Christ. It means embracing weakness so that God’s strength may be made perfect. It means resisting the lure of popular opinion when it conflicts with eternal truth.

In a world that exalts what temporary, the cross anchors us in the eternal. It reminds us that God’s ways are higher than ours, and His wisdom far surpasses our understanding. To stand firm in the gospel is to reject the fleeting wisdom of the age and cling to the cross—the only hope that does not fail.

Lastly, on this Memorial Day, thank you to all the soldiers and veterans that have selfishly given their lives for our freedom.  Your sacrifice, suffering, and even death for a cause, our country, required immeasurable courage and resolve.  Thank you for putting your beliefs and loyalty before your own well-being.

“May the God who gives endurance and encouragement give you the same attitude of mind toward each other that Christ Jesus had.” – Romans 15:5 (NIV)

Romans 15 calls us to something deeper than personal growth—it calls us to collective strength. Paul reminds us that those who are strong in faith should support those who are weak, just as Christ bore our burdens. This is not merely about tolerance; it’s about active love, patience, and selflessness.

Christ is our ultimate example. He didn’t come to please Himself, but to serve and to save. As believers, we’re invited to mirror His humility and grace. When we live with His mindset, our communities become places of healing, hope, and unity.

Paul also emphasizes the power of Scripture—it sustains us with encouragement and gives us hope. Whether we’re tired, confused, or discouraged, God’s Word is a steady foundation.

Finally, the chapter expands our view to the global church. Christ came for both Jews and Gentiles, and His acceptance compels us to welcome others with open hearts. We’re not just individuals following Jesus—we are a people joined together for God’s glory.

Prayer:
Lord, help me to live selflessly, just as Christ did. Teach me to support and uplift others in their journey. Fill me with endurance and encouragement, and give me a heart that seeks unity over division. May my life reflect Your grace and welcome others into Your love. Amen.

Live with Christlike patience, build up others, and embrace the unity God desires for His people.

Written with the assistance of ChatGPT

Romans 5 is a powerful chapter where Paul unpacks the results of being justified by faith and draws a deep contrast between Adam and Christ. Here’s a summary and breakdown of the key themes:

Summary of Romans 5:

Verses 1–11:
Paul begins by explaining the benefits of justification by faith. Because believers are justified (declared righteous) through faith in Jesus, they now have:

• Peace with God (v.1)
• Access to grace (v.2)
• Hope of the glory of God (v.2)
• Joy even in suffering, knowing it produces endurance, character, and hope (vv.3–4)
• God’s love poured into our hearts through the Holy Spirit (v.5)
• Certainty of salvation, because Christ died for us while we were still sinners (vv.6–8)
• Reconciliation with God through Jesus’ death and life (vv.9–11)

Verses 12–21:
Paul then moves into a comparison between Adam and Christ, often called the “two humanities” section:

• Through Adam’s sin, death entered the world and spread to all humanity (v.12)
• But through Christ’s obedience, grace and life are offered to all (v.15)
• Adam’s sin brought condemnation, but Christ’s righteousness brings justification (v.18)
• Where sin increased, grace increased even more (v.20)

Key Themes:

1. Justification by Faith:
   Believers are declared righteous not by works, but through faith in Jesus Christ.
2. Peace and Reconciliation with God:
   Because of justification, believers enjoy a new relationship with God marked by peace, access to grace, and reconciliation.
3. Hope in Suffering:
   Suffering is not meaningless. It refines character and anchors hope in God’s love and promises.
4. God’s Love and Grace:
   The cross is the ultimate demonstration of God’s love—Christ died for the ungodly at just the right time.
5. The Contrast Between Adam and Christ:
   • Adam represents humanity’s fall into sin and death.
   • Christ represents redemption and the gift of righteousness and life. Paul emphasizes that God’s grace far outweighs sin.

Written with the assistance of ChatGPT

Imagine David standing at the end of a long, hard-fought journey—his armor battered, his soul weathered by years of trials. He had faced lions, giants, a jealous king, betrayal by friends, and even rebellion from his own son. Psalm 18 is David’s victory song, sung not just from the throne, but from a heart that remembers every cave, every battle, and every desperate prayer.

He opens with an intimate declaration: “I love You, O Lord, my strength.” David doesn’t just know about God—he knows Him personally. Throughout the psalm, he calls God his rock, fortress, deliverer, shield, and stronghold. These aren’t poetic titles—they’re survival stories.

David recalls how, in his darkest moments, he cried out, and God responded—not passively, but powerfully. The heavens shook, thunder roared, and God reached down to rescue him. It’s a dramatic picture of divine intervention—a God who doesn’t stand far off but moves heaven and earth for His people.

He praises God not only for deliverance but for strength in battle. God didn’t just save him; He equipped him, trained him, and lifted him up.

Psalm 18 closes with public worship—David magnifies God before the nations, giving Him full credit for every victory.

During our trials and tough times, we feel like God has “left us.”  We may feel like no good God would allow us to suffer like this. When the tough times come, and they will, how do we react?  Do we “run toward” our Father or do we question Him for not fixing or removing our troubles?

Our Application from Psalm 18:

• God is our strength when we have none.
• We can trust Him to hear and respond to our cries.
• Living with integrity invites God’s blessing and protection.
• Our testimonies should lead to praise and public declaration of God’s goodness.

Psalm 18 reminds us: God doesn’t just deliver us—He walks with us through every trial, and He turns our scars into songs.

Written with the assistance of ChatGPT

Acts 21 offers a powerful example of boldness and courage through the apostle Paul’s unwavering commitment to spread the gospel, even in the face of danger. Despite being warned repeatedly that suffering awaited him in Jerusalem, Paul remained resolute. His willingness to endure imprisonment and even death for the sake of Christ (Acts 21:13) reveals a fearless devotion that should inspire us as Christians today.

Paul’s example challenges us, if we are believers, to prioritize faithfulness over comfort. His determination to fulfill God’s calling, regardless of the cost, encourages Christians to be courageous when sharing their faith. Whether facing social rejection, criticism, or persecution, Paul’s boldness reminds believers that our mission is greater than their personal safety or reputation.

Additionally, Paul’s reliance on the Holy Spirit provides a model for us. Though warned by fellow believers of the dangers ahead, Paul trusted in God’s plan and remained obedient. This demonstrates that courage comes not from self-confidence but from complete dependence on God’s guidance and strength.

In a world where sharing the gospel may lead to resistance, Acts 21 calls us to stand firm. Paul’s willingness to risk everything for the truth should inspire us to boldly proclaim our faith with love, conviction, and trust in God’s sovereign purpose.

God’s got us. We must trust in Him.

Written with the assistance of ChatGPT

Today’s Reading: Acts 11

Acts 11 is a powerful chapter that highlights key themes of inclusion, divine guidance, and the spread of the Gospel. Here are some of the most meaningful messages from this chapter:

1. God’s Salvation is for All People (Acts 11:1-18)

• Peter explains his vision and encounter with Cornelius, a Gentile, emphasizing that God does not show favoritism.
• Key verse: “So if God gave them the same gift he gave us who believed in the Lord Jesus Christ, who was I to think that I could stand in God’s way?” (Acts 11:17)
• Meaning: This passage teaches that the Gospel is for all people, not just Jews. It marks a turning point in Christianity’s expansion to Gentiles.

2. The Role of the Holy Spirit in Leading the Church (Acts 11:12)

• Peter recounts how the Holy Spirit instructed him to go with Cornelius’ men.
• Meaning: The early church was guided by the Spirit, and believers were called to follow God’s direction, even when it challenged their traditions.

3. The Importance of Testimony in Strengthening Faith (Acts 11:4-17)

• Peter carefully explains his actions, and the other believers accept his testimony.
• Meaning: Sharing personal experiences of God’s work helps others understand His will and strengthens the unity of the Church.

4. The Growth of the Church in Antioch (Acts 11:19-26)

• Persecuted believers spread the Gospel to Gentiles in Antioch, leading to the birth of a diverse Christian community.
• Key verse: “The disciples were called Christians first at Antioch.” (Acts 11:26)
• Meaning: This shows the church expanding beyond Jewish roots, fulfilling Jesus’ command to make disciples of all nations (Matthew 28:19).

5. Generosity and Caring for One Another (Acts 11:27-30)

• A prophecy foretells a famine, and the church in Antioch responds by sending help to Judean believers.
• Meaning: True faith is demonstrated through love and generosity, showing that Christian communities are called to support one another.

Acts 11 teaches that God’s salvation is for all, that the Holy Spirit guides His people, and that the Church is called to be united in mission, testimony, and generosity.

Written with the assistance of ChatGPT

Acts 1 is foundational to the launch of Christianity, marking the transition from Jesus’ earthly ministry to the apostle’s mission empowered by the Holy Spirit. It establishes the Church’s purpose, leadership, and reliance on divine power.

Jesus’ final instructions in Acts 1:8 provide the blueprint for Christian mission: the gospel must spread from Jerusalem to the ends of the earth. This verse underscores the Church’s role as witnesses of Christ, emphasizing evangelism and discipleship. However, Jesus commands them to wait for the Holy Spirit, highlighting the necessity of divine empowerment rather than human effort alone.

The ascension of Jesus (Acts 1:9-11) signifies His enthronement as King and High Priest, affirming His ongoing spiritual presence and future return. The angelic promise that Christ will come again fuels Christian hope and faith.

The disciples prayerful unity (Acts 1:14) demonstrates the importance of spiritual preparation, community, and dependence on God. This sets a model for believers to seek God’s guidance in times of transition and uncertainty.

Finally, the selection of Matthias to replace Judas (Acts 1:15-26) reinforces the importance of God-ordained leadership in the Church. The apostles reliance on prayer and Scripture in decision-making establishes a pattern for spiritual discernment.

Overall, Acts 1 bridges Jesus’ ministry and the Church’s mission, demonstrating that Christianity is not built on human effort but on God’s power, leadership, and the unifying presence of the Holy Spirit. It lays the foundation for a faith that is global, Spirit-led, and centered on Christ’s return.