Author: Jeff Foster (Page 3 of 4)

Bringing People to Jesus

July 25, 2023 / Jeff Foster / 0 Comments

And they come unto him, bringing one sick of the palsy, which was borne of four. (Mark 2:3 KJV)

Bringing people to Jesus is not simply a task. It is however, a divine calling commanded by our Savior. Thankfully we have the Holy Spirit to strengthen us for the assignment. It is an endeavor that transcends mere duty and becomes an all-encompassing mission driven by love, sacrifice, faith, and cooperation.

Love is at the core of this endeavor. It is through genuine love for our fellow human beings that we can reach out to them and show them the unconditional love that Jesus has for each and every one of us. Love breaks down barriers, opens hearts, and creates connections that allow us to share the message of salvation. It is a love that compels us to reach out to those who are lost, broken, and searching for meaning. We recognize that every single person has inherent worth and deserves to experience the transformative power of God’s grace.

Sacrifice plays a crucial role in bringing people to Jesus. Just as Jesus sacrificed Himself on the cross for our sins, we too must be willing to give up our own desires and comforts for the sake of others. In our pursuit of this calling, we must be willing to make sacrifices. We understand that bringing people to Jesus may require us to step outside our comfort zones, leave behind familiar territories, and invest our time and energy without expecting anything in return. We willingly surrender our own desires for the sake of leading others into the eternal embrace of God’s love. Whether it’s sacrificing our time, resources, or even personal ambitions, we must be willing to put others before ourselves in order to effectively bring them closer to Christ.

Faith becomes our guiding light on this sacred journey. We trust in God’s wisdom and providence as He works through us to guide us through challenges and uncertainties. It is through faith that we can overcome doubts and fears, trusting that God will guide us every step of the way as we bring people into a relationship with Him. Even when faced with rejection or doubt, we hold steadfastly onto the belief that God is working through us – planting seeds of hope and salvation in hearts hungry for truth.

But this mission cannot be accomplished alone – it requires cooperation. As passionate ambassadors of Christ, we join hands with fellow believers who share the same burning desire to bring people closer to Him. Together, we form a united front against darkness and despair, shining the light of Christ’s love into every corner of the world. By working together with other believers, sharing resources, ideas, and support, we can amplify our efforts and reach more souls with the message of hope found in Christ.

Bringing people to Jesus is an extraordinary privilege that requires passion and dedication. Let us embrace this calling with fervor as we strive to bring His light into the lives of those who are searching for meaning and purpose. Let us go forth armed with love, sacrifice, faith, and cooperation – knowing that through our efforts many will find solace in Jesus’ arms. May each step we take bring us closer to fulfilling His commandment: “Go therefore and make disciples of all nations” (Matthew 28:19). Together, let’s demonstrate love through sacrifice, strengthen our faith through prayerful dependence on God’s guidance, and cooperate with one another to fulfill the great commission of making disciples of all nations.

Bringing people to Jesus is not just about preaching or converting others; it’s about embodying His teachings through our actions and interactions with others. It’s about being living examples of His love, sacrifice, faith, and cooperation.

Let us embrace this calling with passion and enthusiasm as we strive to bring more souls closer to Jesus – one act of love at a time.

Choose to be Grateful

July 24, 2023 / Jeff Foster / 0 Comments

Let there be no filthiness nor foolish talk nor crude joking, which are out of place, but instead let there be thanksgiving.
(Ephesians 5:4 ESV)

In a world filled with challenges and uncertainties, it’s easy to lose sight of the things that bring us hope and happiness. But amidst it all, we have a powerful choice – the choice to be grateful.

How you feel – how happy you are, how stressed you are, even how well you sleep – may seem like it’s out of your hands, but it is actually a choice you make. You can choose to be grateful for what you have and allow God to bring joy in your heart. Or you can choose to focus on what you’re lacking, who has wronged you, and what’s not going your way. And guess what? You’ll feel miserable. You may blame others, circumstances, or fate for your unhappiness. But at the end of the day, it’s all about the choices you make. You choose happiness or misery.

Gratitude is not just a fleeting emotion that comes and goes; it is a powerful mindset and a way of life. It goes beyond simply saying “thank you” – it is about cultivating an attitude of appreciation and acknowledging the abundant blessings, big or small, that God provides each and every day. When we choose to embrace gratitude, we are able to shift our perspective from focusing on what may be lacking in our lives to recognizing the incredible abundance that is already present. Paul wrote in Philippians 4:11-13 KJV, Not that I speak in respect of want: for I have learned, in whatsoever state I am, therewith to be content. (12) I know both how to be abased, and I know how to abound: every where and in all things I am instructed both to be full and to be hungry, both to abound and to suffer need. (13) I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me. Gratitude allows us to find joy in the ordinary moments, to see beauty in the simplest of things, and to truly appreciate all that life has to offer. So let us take a moment each day to pause, reflect, and thank God for the myriad of blessings that enrich our lives.

Embracing a mindset of gratitude doesn’t require us to turn a blind eye to the challenges and hardships we encounter on our journey. Rather, it empowers us to find strength and resilience through Christ in the face of adversity. It is through these struggles that we grow and learn valuable lessons that shape our character. Expressing gratitude allows us to discover moments of joy even in the simplest things. It is about pausing, taking a deep breath, and appreciating the beauty that surrounds us every day. Whether it’s the warmth of sunlight on our skin or the laughter shared with loved ones, gratitude opens our hearts to the abundance of blessings in our lives. Let us strive to be thankful not only during moments of triumph but also during times of difficulty. By cultivating an attitude of gratitude, we can transform challenges into opportunities for growth and find solace in knowing that every experience contributes to our personal development. Within every struggle lies an opportunity for growth, and within every difficulty lies a chance for resilience. James 1:2-3 ESV Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, (3) for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness. Embrace gratitude as your guiding light, allowing it to illuminate your path and infuse each day with a greater appreciation of God’s work in your life.

When we consciously choose to embrace gratitude in our lives, we are inviting an abundance of positivity and joy to flow into every facet of our existence. Gratitude is not just a mere expression of thanks; it is a powerful mindset that can transform the way we perceive the world. By practicing gratitude, we open doors to new opportunities that may have otherwise been overlooked. It allows us to recognize the blessings and gifts that surround us, even in times of challenge or difficulty. As we cultivate a grateful heart, our outlook becomes brighter, and we become more receptive to the endless possibilities that await us.

Gratitude has a profound impact on our relationships with others. When we express appreciation and acknowledge the goodness in those around us, we strengthen the bonds that connect us. The act of showing gratitude creates an atmosphere of love and understanding, deepening our connections with family, friends, colleagues, and even strangers. Beyond personal benefits, gratitude has a ripple effect on society as a whole. When one person chooses to be grateful, it spreads like wildfire touching the lives of those they encounter. Gratefulness becomes contagious as it ignites kindness and compassion within others. By simply expressing gratitude, we have the power to uplift spirits and make a positive difference in someone’s day. So let us remember that when faced with life’s challenges or mundane routines, choosing gratitude allows God to transform our lives for the better. Embrace this beautiful practice and watch as it brings forth abundance, strengthens relationships, and radiates kindness throughout your journey.

Hope in God

July 17, 2023 / Jeff Foster / 0 Comments

Why art thou cast down, O my soul? and why art thou disquieted within me? hope in God: for I shall yet praise him, who is the health of my countenance, and my God.
(Psalms 43:5 KJV)

David found himself in trouble many times during his life. Oppressed by his enemy often thrust this Hebrew king into depression. In this Psalm, though, David realizes he has no reason to worry for the God of Israel was his Master.

In times of uncertainty, finding hope in God’s sovereignty can bring us comfort and peace. Trusting in His divine plan allows us to let go of our worries and anxieties, knowing that He is in control. In the midst of uncertainty, placing our trust in God’s sovereignty can be a source of great comfort and peace. It’s reassuring to know that He has a divine plan for each of us and is in complete control. So, we can let go of our worries and anxieties, knowing that He is guiding us every step of the way.

When we praise God for His goodness and faithfulness, our hope is strengthened. It reminds us of His past faithfulness and gives us confidence that He will continue to provide for us in the future. Praising God for His goodness and faithfulness is such a wonderful way to strengthen our hope. It’s like looking back at a beautiful tapestry of His past faithfulness and being reminded that He will always be there for us in the future. Praising Him, my friend, and let your confidence soar knowing that He will provide for you every step of the way.

Finding contentment in God’s presence is a source of great joy. It allows us to focus on the blessings we have rather than constantly striving for more. When we trust in Him completely, we can experience true contentment and find joy in every circumstance. Finding contentment in God’s presence brings immense joy and peace to our lives. It’s a beautiful reminder that true happiness doesn’t solely depend on external circumstances, but rather on our connection with Him. When we trust in His plans and surrender ourselves to His will, we can find contentment even when faced with challenges. This deep-rooted faith allows us to appreciate the blessings we already have instead of always seeking more. In God’s presence, joy becomes a constant companion that uplifts us through every season of life.

So let us hold onto hope, praise Him with grateful hearts, and find contentment in His loving presence. For with God as our foundation, there is always reason to be joyful and hopeful.

The Blind May See

July 12, 2023 / Jeff Foster / 0 Comments

John 9:5-7 KJV “As long as I am in the world, I am the light of the world.
(6) When he had thus spoken, he spat on the ground, and made clay of the spittle, and he anointed the eyes of the blind man with the clay,
(7) And said unto him, Go, wash in the pool of Siloam, (which is by interpretation, Sent.) He went his way therefore, and washed, and came seeing.”

What a powerful passage from the Bible! In John 9:5-7, we witness Jesus proclaiming himself as the light of the world. His words are filled with hope and assurance. It is truly inspiring to see how he then takes action to demonstrate his power by healing a blind man. Jesus’ compassion knows no bounds as he uses humble elements like clay and spittle to bring about this miraculous healing. The simple act of anointing the blind man’s eyes with clay ignites faith and creates a path for transformation. Moreover, Jesus instructs the blind man to go and wash in the pool of Siloam. This act signifies not only physical cleansing but also spiritual renewal. Many times in scripture we know that water signifies the Word of God. There can be no transformation without the Word of God.

By obeying Jesus’ command without hesitation, the blind man experiences an incredible miracle—he goes from darkness into sight. This story is a beautiful reminder that even in our darkest moments, there is always hope for restoration and transformation. Just as Jesus was the light of that world then, he continues to be our guiding light today. Let us trust in his power and have faith that he can bring about miracles in our lives too.

In the journey of discipleship, we often find ourselves spiritually blind, unable to see the path ahead. However, just as Jesus brought physical sight to the blind, He also offers us a spiritual awakening that can illuminate our lives.

The story of the blind man in the Bible serves as a powerful reminder that no matter how lost we may feel, there is always hope for transformation. Jesus not only healed the physical blindness of this man but also opened his eyes to a deeper understanding of faith and truth.

Just as Jesus used His divine power to restore sight to the blind man, He can also bring light into our lives and help us see things from a new perspective. Through prayer, reflection, and seeking His guidance, we can experience a profound revelation that leads us towards growth and fulfillment.

Let us remember that even in our darkest moments, there is an opportunity for spiritual growth. Like the blind man who encountered Jesus, we too can be transformed by His love and grace. Embrace this journey with faith and trust in Him, for through Him, even the blind may see.

Take inspiration from this passage and remember that you are not alone on your journey. With faith, obedience, and perseverance, you too can experience extraordinary breakthroughs just like the blind man did when he washed in Siloam’s pool. Keep shining your light brightly!

Living in God’s Word

July 10, 2023 / Jeff Foster / 1 Comment

So Jesus said to the Jews who had believed him, “If you abide in my word, you are truly my disciples, and you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.” (John 8:31-32 ESV)

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In a world filled with noise and distractions, it can be challenging to stay grounded and connected to our faith. However, by choosing to live in God’s Word, we can find solace, guidance, and unwavering truth. When we abide in His teachings, we embark on a journey of discipleship that leads us closer to Jesus.

Living in God’s Word means more than just reading the scriptures; it means allowing its wisdom to shape our thoughts, actions, and interactions with others. It is through this intentional immersion that we begin to understand the depth of His love and purpose for our lives.

As disciples of Christ, we are called to walk in the footsteps of Jesus. By embracing His teachings and embodying His grace and compassion, we become vessels for spreading His light in a world desperately in need of hope.

Let us remember that living in God’s Word is not a solitary endeavor but a communal one. As we gather with fellow believers and engage in heartfelt discussions about scripture, we strengthen our faith and encourage one another on this transformative journey.

Today, let us recommit ourselves to abiding in the truth found within God’s Word. Let us seek understanding, wisdom, and guidance from its pages as we navigate life’s challenges. May our lives be a testament to the power of living according to His will as we strive each day to reflect the love of Christ within us.

Rock Solid Faith

May 1, 2023 / Jeff Foster / 0 Comments

And Peter said, Man, I know not what thou sayest. And immediately, while he yet spake, the cock crew. (Luke 22:60)

For centuries we have enjoyed practicing our religion in safety here in America. Faith was so important to the founders of this nation that its protection is clearly stated in the first sentence of the first amendment to our Constitution. First, in a series of ten amendments which are known as the Bill of Rights. Sadly, there is an increasing number of people who are adamantly opposed to allowing Christians to have that basic freedom. Too often we read in the news of attempts to silence the preaching of God’s word. Here in America, the land of freedom, Christians have been arrested for refusing to deny their faith.

I would like to believe I am grounded enough in my faith that I would boldly proclaim the name of Christ no matter the circumstances. But in our verse today we find Peter denying he knew Christ the third time. Peter was afraid.

Peter was the third disciple to follow Christ. When Jesus met Peter, He renamed him Cephas, which interpreted means a stone, signifying the rock-solid faith that Peter would have. Peter stepped out on the waters of the Sea of Galilee when Jesus said “Come”.

All the disciples hid in fear as Jesus alone faced those next few hours of torment leading up to His crucifixion. But the Bible only gives us the account of Peter, the one whom Christ granted the rock-solid faith.

Even the strongest Christian has a breaking point. Rock-solid faith planted in the heart of this carnal flesh will eventually show its weakness. But in our weakness, God shows His unfailing strength. Jesus tells us that the tiniest amount of faith in Him is enough to move mountains. When our faith falters, (that’s when, not if) we are still secure in His hand.

Brethren we need to encourage one another, pray for each other, that in this time we have, we may continue to stand boldly for Christ.

The Obvious Question

February 12, 2023 / Jeff Foster / 0 Comments

And a certain man was there, which had an infirmity thirty and eight years. When Jesus saw him lie, and knew that he had been now a long time in that case, he saith unto him, Wilt thou be made whole? (John 5:5-6)

“Wilt thou be made whole?” Why would Jesus ask such a question? Of course, this man wanted healing! He had an infirmity for 38 years. Now we don’t know how old this man was, or how long he had laid by this pool, watching for a ripple of water. But we know his attention was on the water. Jesus’ question was intended to draw this man’s eyes off the superstitious water and put them on Himself. This impotent man needed to turn his eyes to the omnipotent God.

I read somewhere while studying for this post, that Jesus asked a question 307 times in the New Testament, but only gave an answer to His questions three times. God’s word should cause us to question ourselves, so that we can see our weaknesses, our lack of wisdom, our inability to measure up to God’s standard. This impotent man would never see his true condition by staring at a pool. There are many people in the same condition today, waiting, watching, yearning for some feeling, some emotion, something physical that will change their life. People are hungry for something to make their life different, perhaps not knowing what change they want, just something different; hanging their hopes on “good vibes” or maybe karma will look kindly on them. We need to follow Christ’s example here. We need to ask the lost and dying people the obvious questions to take their eyes off the false hopes the world has to offer. Wilt thou be made whole? There is no healing in the pool, but there is eternal life in Jesus Christ.

A Determined Choice

January 21, 2023 / Jeff Foster / 0 Comments

“Woe is me!” The prophet Micah laments his circumstances in the seventh chapter of his discourse to the leaders of Israel, speaking of the wickedness surrounding him. We can sympathize with Micah’s plight today. Our leaders seem to have no regard for the people. In chapter 2, Micah describes those in power as devising evil at night to practice when the morning light comes. Their greed drove them to oppress the common people without any sign of remorse. Judges required bribes for their verdicts. The rich and powerful would entangle their mischief in the courts allowing them to continue their evil ways. Sound familiar?

Micah was given the unpopular task of proclaiming God’s impending judgement on Israel. His bold witness for God was believed by a few and rejected by many. In chapter 7 Micah speaks of discord within close family members. The controversies caused by his witness surely affected his mental state. We can easily be discouraged at the mockery of God we see around us.

But Micah made a determined choice to trust God. In verses 7-8 we read; “Therefore I will look unto the LORD; I will wait for the God of my salvation: my God will hear me. Rejoice not against me, O mine enemy: when I fall, I shall arise; when I sit in darkness, the LORD shall be a light unto me.” (Micah 7:7-8)

We can easily get distressed if we watch all the evil going on around us. It may seem like the whole world is against us. But like Micah, we must determine to look unto the LORD, trust Him, and allow Him to be our light in this dark world. God gives rest to the weary, strength to the down-trodden, and comfort to the brokenhearted.

Be Ready

January 14, 2023 / Jeff Foster / 1 Comment

But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts: and be ready always to give an answer to every man that asketh you a reason of the hope that is in you with meekness and fear:
(1 Peter 3:15)

Whether you admit it or not, we all crave attention. We want people to hear what we have to say. Our society has driven many of us to sharing frivolous nonsense on social media, then agonizing over how many likes and follows we get. Going “viral” is now the ultimate excitement.

Truth is that people are watching us wherever we go. If we claim to be a follower of Christ, we are watched even closer. God calls us to be a peculiar people. Why would He do that you ask? So that people might take notice of our gratitude and praise toward God. (ref. 1 Peter 2:9).

When we attract attention for God’s glory, it awakens a curiosity in those around us. As Peter tells us in our focus verse, we must be ready to answer questions about our faith. When talking about our faith, we need to be honest. We should not try to hide our flaws or pretend that we are perfect. We need to be open about our own journey and allow others to see that we are real people who have struggles just like them.

How can we prepare ourselves for the questions? Spending time each day reading God’s word and in prayer is vital to our readiness. The most effective message you can give someone is to tell them how you came to trust in Christ. That is your witness that no one can dispute. But as the apostle Paul warns young Timothy, (ref. 2 Tim. 2:23) we must avoid getting side-tracked into foolish questions which will certainly lead to arguments and do nothing to further God’s kingdom. Always allow the Holy Spirit to guide your answers and conversations.

Allowing God to continuously transform your life through the reading of His word and in prayer will prepare you to not only be ready, but confidently await any questions about the hope within you.

Brain Fog

January 7, 2023 / Jeff Foster / 5 Comments

I will both lay me down in peace, and sleep: for thou, LORD, only makest me dwell in safety.
(Psalms 4:8)

The last few weeks have been challenging. Commitments and obligations fill our days pretty quickly during the season from Thanksgiving to New Year’s Day. Adding to that is the serious health issues of some dear friends and family members, including my wife’s knee surgery and other things she’s going through. I’ve noticed the stress and resulting brain fog has affected my memory lately. Words and names that should come to mind quickly simply escape me at times. All these circumstances has given me plenty of excuses to keep me from writing.

I am grateful though, that when my life gets stressful, and my mind overwhelmed with circumstances, I can still trust that God is in complete control of my life. Nothing takes Him by surprise; nothing overwhelms His mind. He watches each step, arranges my circumstances, even uses my mistakes for my good.

Throughout the recent trying situations God has continued to bless us tremendously. Seems like 2022 went by in a blink but within its days and weeks there were several notable, (another word for stressful) events. I changed jobs in late 2021 and it has allowed me to work full-time from home in 2022. We watched as my grandparents old house which had stood empty for many years was sold and consequently replaced with a fast food restaurant. That stirred up sweet memories of gathering around the Formica topped dining table to enjoy Granny’s stewed beef, green beans, potatoes, and of course those wonderful homemade biscuits. My wife and I decided it was time to buy a more comfortable home as our retirement age is approaching fast. In the midst of the crazy housing market we found a house we both love so then came the stress that goes with purchasing and moving. God gave me the opportunity to teach a Bible study class again, (though I still feel so inadequate).

With all these changes it’s no wonder my head is in a fog sometimes. I always find comfort though in God’s promises. Like David, I lay down each night in peace and sleep, trusting my Savior in all things. Those days I’m at my wit’s end, those days I fall to worldly temptations, those days my faith wavers, He still holds me secure in His hand.

Now the new year is here with its new challenges. I anxiously await to see what God has in store for me next. Plans are already in the works for publishing my new book, Pondering God’s Word, sometime in 2023. If you’d like to receive updates be sure to sign up for my weekly newsletter using the form on the home page.