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Authentic Christian or a Hypocrite?

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If asked whether we are authentic Christians or hypocrites, most of us would want to say we are authentic. But what does that really mean?

To be authentic means to be genuine to what we believe—not perfect, but sincere. Authentic Christianity is not about appearances or performance. It is about having a transformed heart continually shaped by Christ.

The opposite of authenticity is hypocrisy. A hypocrite is someone who pretends to hold beliefs, attitudes, or values they do not truly live by. In other words, they present a version of faith that does not match their true walk. There is also another, often quieter form of hypocrisy—one that shows up when we forget our own weaknesses and begin to look down on others.

Jesus addressed hypocrisy directly during His ministry. He spoke strongly against religious leaders who looked holy on the outside but were far from God on the inside. Jesus made it clear that what matters most is not how others perceive us, but the condition of our hearts and how we treat people.

Authentic Christianity does not point to ourselves—it always points to Jesus. He is the One who saves, heals, restores, and transforms. Our lives should reflect Him, not impress others.

Each of us can be hypocritical, but we must guard against it. We must resist any desire to impress others with religion and avoid looking down on others who struggle in some way. We have to be an example of the gospel message. The real message of the Gospel is that Jesus saves.

We must strive to live as authentic Christians, not as hypocrites, so that others know there is no sin too big and no limit to God’s ability to forgive and restore. Authenticity allows others to see the truth that no one is perfect and we all need Jesus. Pride and arrogance can limit our ability to remain authentic in our faith, as acknowledging our flaws can feel uncomfortable.

Authentic Christians Resist Pride and Arrogance

The word hypocrite is often used to describe someone who pretends to be spiritual. It makes sense that, after coming to faith, many believers genuinely want to live a Christ-centered life yet may still struggle with old habits, doubts, and weaknesses. Christianity is a way of life, and step-by-step growth is a regular part of the process. An authentic Christian should acknowledge those struggles rather than hide them.

One of the greatest threats to authenticity is pride. Pride convinces us that we must look like we “have it all together” to belong—especially within church communities. This pressure can cause believers to perform spirituality rather than pursue true intimacy with God.

Authentic Christians must resist pride and arrogance, as these are among the enemy’s most effective tactics. The enemy would rather see us appear religious than remain dependent on God’s mercy by asking the Father to help us live righteously. The enemy prefers that we impress people rather than humbly seek the Lord.

As a genuine Christian, we must recognize the need to stay close to God in prayer, knowing that it is impossible to live a Christian life without God’s help. Authenticity flows from humility in the heart of a Christian who recognizes their constant need for God. They understand that living a Christ-like life is impossible without His strength, guidance, and grace. Rather than pretending, they pray. Rather than boasting, they surrender. The hypocrite, however, is happy, pretending, and does not seek God.

“The wicked, through the pride of his countenance, will not seek after God: God is not in all his thoughts.”

Authentic Christians Show Love and Are Not Judgmental

Jesus summed up God’s commandments: love God and love people. Authentic Christianity is revealed through love—not condemnation, comparison, or exclusion.

Authentic Christians understand that it is not their role to judge others. Scripture calls us to examine our own hearts first. While discernment is essential, harsh judgment is not. God alone sees the complete picture of a person’s heart, wounds, and journey.

Love is central to the Gospel, and it can manifest in small yet powerful ways. Kind words, patience, compassion, and the willingness to listen can go a long way for the Kingdom of God. Authentic Christians recognize how deeply words and attitudes can either heal or harm. They are mindful that many people feel unseen, unworthy, or unreachable—and they choose to reflect the heart of Christ.

Jesus came for the lost, the broken, and the weary. Authentic Christians never forget that truth because they know they once needed that same grace.

Authentic Christians Understand Forgiveness

Living an authentic Christian life means living a surrendered life—one that continually exchanges self-will for God’s will. That process takes time. God knows we will stumble, struggle, and sometimes fail. Authenticity does not require perfection; it requires humility and repentance.

There will be moments when we say or do things we regret. When that happens, authentic Christians do not justify their actions or hide behind excuses. Instead, they seek forgiveness—from God and from others.

Authentic Christians also understand the importance of offering forgiveness. They remember how much grace they have received and extend that same grace to others, even when it is difficult.

Forgiveness keeps our hearts soft and our faith genuine. It reminds us that we are all dependent on God’s mercy. No one should be unwilling to apologize.

What Jesus Said About Authenticity and Hypocrisy

As we study Scriptures, we see that Jesus directed his strongest rebukes toward religious leaders who appeared holy but lacked compassion, humility, and love.

Jesus spoke more about hypocrisy than many people realize—not because He was harsh, but because hypocrisy blocks a genuine relationship with God and harms others. The words of Jesus consistently reveal that God looks at the heart, not outward appearances or religious performance.

Jesus cautioned His followers against practicing acts of righteousness to be seen or praised by people. He made it clear that outward religious acts mean nothing if the heart remains disconnected from God. Authentic Christianity flows from a sincere desire to honor God privately, rather than from a desire to appear spiritual publicly.

Jesus Addressed Praying to Be Seen and Heard by Others

Jesus was not criticizing public prayer itself—He was exposing the motive behind it. When prayer becomes a performance, it loses its power. God is not impressed by volume, length, or eloquence, but by sincerity and humility. Jesus went on to explain that authentic prayer is not about many words or sounding impressive:

“And when you pray, do not heap up empty phrases as the Gentiles do, for they think that they will be heard for their many words.” Matthew 6:7 (ESV)

He said this because God already knows our needs before we speak. Prayer is not about convincing God to listen—it is about drawing near to Him with a genuine heart.

A Prayer to Be An Authentic Christian

Authentic Christians do not live to impress others. They live to reflect Christ. Their lives quietly testify that Jesus saves, transforms, and sustains. True faith is not loud, showy, or self-centered—it is rooted, humble, and love-filled.

To live as an authentic Christian, we need to love God, love our neighbor, and follow Jesus’s example. Living as an authentic Christian may sound simple, but it often requires daily surrender.

We all fall short at times. What matters is not pretending otherwise, but continually returning to Jesus—the only One who can truly help us live the life God calls us to live. Let’s pray and ask God to help us live authentically every day.

A sunset with a lady's hands raised. A Prayer to Be An Authentic Christian.

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The Best Way To Handle a Waiting Season

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In general, most of us do not like waiting, yet there are moments in life when everything feels like a long wait. These are moments when we’ve prayed, worked hard, and exercised our faith, yet it seems the needle hasn’t moved. It feels like nothing is happening, which makes us wonder whether something is wrong or if God has forgotten us. These seasons are heavy, and cause us to wonder whether the “delay” is actually a “denial.”

Scripture tells us the truth. Waiting is never wasted time. A waiting season is often where God does His deepest work, stretching our faith and reshaping our hearts to handle the very thing we are praying for. Let’s look at how to navigate the wait time by learning from stories in the Bible.

An Hourglass Image and the Title The Best Way To Handle a Waiting Season

Understanding the Waiting Season

A waiting season is the space between God’s promise and its fulfillment. It’s the gap in time that requires the most faith to hope without seeing. Waiting seasons can occur when we wait for healing, a spouse, a career breakthrough, or restoration. It is the knowing that God will come through, yet waiting for it to happen.

No matter what we hope for, the best place to look is in the Bible. We must remember that Scripture is like a GPS or a blueprint, giving us clues about what to do during every season of life. There are many examples of waiting in the Bible. Let’s explore a few together to see how others handled their waiting seasons.

Abraham and Sarah: Waiting For a Son When the Promise Seems Impossible

God promised Abraham and Sarah that they would have a child. He told them that this would happen, but their waiting season lasted decades. It was clear that Abraham had heard God promise him that he would become the father of many nations, yet year after year passed with no child in sight (Genesis15:5). As their bodies aged and hope naturally faded, the promise seemed impossible from a human perspective, and it was.

In their humanity, doubt crept in, and they began to wonder whether they needed to “help” God by taking matters into their own hands, which meant that Abraham would have a child with Hagar, the servant, something God did not intend. Their decision to have a child this way only brought pain and complications (Genesis 16).

Despite their mistake and misjudgment, God was faithful to His promise, causing Sarah to laugh when she heard she would conceive despite her advanced age. Everything seemed impossible (Genesis 18:10–12), but at the appointed time, when Sarah was far beyond child-bearing years, and there was no way anyone could deny His faithfulness, God fulfilled His Word, and Isaac was born (Genesis 21:1–3).

As we study the story of Isaac’s birth, we can see that God wants us to believe His Word, even when His promises seem delayed. We must learn to have unwavering faith and trust God’s Word and His timing. Abraham and Sarah’s story reminds us that God’s delays are not denials, and our circumstances, timelines, or mistakes do not limit His promises. We must handle our “in the meantime” with faith.

Joseph: Waiting Through Betrayal and Injustice

Joseph received a word from God in a dream that showed him in a position of leadership and influence. In his excitement, Joseph shared the dream with his brothers, who betrayed him, sold him into slavery, and caused him to be taken far from home (Genesis 37:23–28).

Later, even though he did what was right and refused Potiphar’s wife’s advances, she falsely accused him, causing him to be wrongfully convicted and thrown into prison (Genesis 39:20). For years, Joseph waited in confinement, seemingly forgotten by everyone, even those he helped gain freedom by interpreting their dreams (Genesis 40:23).

The Bible tells us that “the Lord was with Joseph” even in prison (Genesis 39:21). We can see that God used the time in prison to shape Joseph’s character, humility, and leadership in the hidden place. In God’s perfect timing, Joseph interpreted a dream for the Pharaoh, who promoted him to second-in-command of Egypt (Genesis 41:41). God used Joseph’s elevation and the hardships he endured to save nations and preserve His people (Genesis 50:20).

Joseph’s waiting season teaches us that waiting can serve as a form of preservation and preparation, and should not be viewed as punishment.

David: Waiting Between the Promise and the Crown

David was anointed the next King while still a young shepherd, but the throne did not come quickly or easily (1 Samuel 16:12–13). Although the prophet anointed him, David did not become King right away. Instead, he spent years running for his life, hiding in caves, and living as a fugitive while the current King, named Saul, sought to kill him (1 Samuel 19–24). Despite having many opportunities to harm King Saul and take the kingdom by force, David chose to wait on God rather than rush ahead of God’s timing (1 Samuel 24:6; 26:9–11).

During this long season, David poured out his heart to God through the Psalms—expressing fear, sorrow, trust, and hope. David wrote in the Psalms, “Wait for the Lord; be strong, and let your heart take courage; wait for the Lord!” (Psalm 27:14). When the time came, David was established as King just as God had promised (2 Samuel 5:4).

David demonstrates that sometimes God uses a waiting season to build integrity. Waiting also teaches us dependence on God and adequately prepares our hearts to steward what God gives by first teaching us to wait until He gives it.

Hannah: Waiting Through Silent Prayers and Deep Sorrow

Hannah’s waiting season tested her ability to have long faith. She suffered through deep personal pain and years of unanswered prayer as she asked God to give her a child. Hannah suffered as she remained barren while her husband’s other wife, Peninnah, had children and continually provoked and humiliated her (1 Samuel 1:6–7). Each year, Hannah went to the house of the Lord carrying the ache in her heart, wondering if God heard her cries.

Driven by a deep sense of loss, Hannah went to the temple where she poured out her soul before God, praying silently, but with such intensity that the Priest Eli mistook her for being drunk (1 Samuel 1:12–15). Right there, in the middle of her pain, she let go of her control. Hannah surrendered her pain and vowed that if God gave her a son, she would dedicate him back to the Lord all the days of his life (1 Samuel 1:11). Her waiting was not passive; it was worshipful, honest, and filled with trembling faith.

God met Hannah in her longing. She gave birth to a son, Samuel, who would grow up in the temple with the Priest Eli and later lead an entire nation. The most incredible part of Hannah’s story isn’t just that she got what she wanted, but that she kept her word. Hannah returned to the temple to hand her miracle back to God, trusting Him with the very thing she had wept for.

Later, Hannah gave birth to three more sons and two daughters (1 Samuel 2:21). Her life shows us that a waiting season is where our roots grow deep and we learn to align our desires with Kingdom living. Even when it feels like nothing is happening, God is weaving a larger story that we will see if we are willing to surrender our will for His.

What to Do in a Waiting Season

Although a waiting season can test our faith in ways few other experiences do, what is important is how we choose to “pass the time”. When answers delay, and the path ahead feels unclear, our first response should be to draw closer to God in prayer which becomes a place of refuge where we can bring our fears, disappointments, and unanswered questions before a God who deeply cares for us (1 Peter 5:7). Even when words are difficult to find, choosing to remain in conversation with God keeps our hearts anchored to His presence. Prayer offers us the opportunity to pour out like Hannah, but it also allows God to reassure us that He is still right there.

Staying rooted in God’s Word is very important. When we read the Bible, we learn more about God’s character, and Scripture reminds us that God is faithful, even when circumstances suggest otherwise. His Word provides light and reminds us of all the times He has been true to others, which feeds our faith. God communicates to us through His Word, guiding our steps when we cannot see the whole road ahead (Psalm 119:105).

Waiting seasons also invite us to practice obedience in the small, ordinary moments of life. If we are only willing to praise God and serve Him when everything is the way we desire, then we are not honoring God. It is tempting to believe that faithfulness only matters once He answers our prayers or fulfils the promise, but God often shapes our character most deeply before the breakthrough ever comes. He teaches us to listen, believe, and obey before the answered prayer.

It is not easy to wait well when nothing seems to change, but we must learn to rest in the truth that God is always working and has our best interests in mind. His silence is not absence. The delay does not mean denial. The waiting season can be a training ground or a time of development that prepares us for the future God has designed for us. We must trust the process.

The enemy will attempt to make us doubt the goodness of God during a waiting season, so we must be prepared to fight his attacks. Prolonged waiting can easily open the door to negative feelings of discouragement, comparison, and quiet resentment, especially when others seem to move forward ahead of us. We must learn to guard our hearts by choosing gratitude over bitterness and trust over fear so that we keep our hearts soft toward God.

How God Works Within Us During a Waiting Season

God often chooses the waiting season to refine our character. What feels like a delay is frequently divine preparation for the next season. As Ecclesiastes tells us, “For everything there is a season, and a time for every matter under heaven” (Ecclesiastes 3:1). Waiting can become a classroom that teaches us patience, integrity, and faithfulness. Waiting can also show us how to respond to disappointment, treat others with grace, and remain steady in our faith when answers are delayed or do not meet our expectations.

Like fire purifies gold, trials strengthen our faith, making it more genuine and resilient (1 Peter 1:6–7). God sometimes uses waiting seasons to gently expose misplaced priorities, subtle self-reliance, and hidden fears. He does not do this to shame us, but to heal and restore us. Over time, if we willingly surrender, our desires may begin to change during the waiting season as well. If we allow it, what once consumed our thoughts may slowly give way to a simple desire for a deeper relationship with God.

God’s perfect timing protects us from receiving blessings before we are ready to steward them well. God knows how much we can handle and whether we are spiritually mature enough to handle the promises. When the appointed time comes, we often discover that God’s most significant transformation occurs within us. Before outward circumstances change, God knows how to strengthen us inwardly. Sometimes blessings can hurt us if we are not prepared to receive them.

As our relationship with God grows, our hearts will begin to align with His will. Scripture reminds us, “Delight yourself in the Lord, and He will give you the desires of your heart” (Psalm 37:4)—sometimes by fulfilling them, and sometimes by transforming them. Scripture reminds us that God is good to those who wait for him (Lamentations 3:25).

Let’s Pray For Help in Our Waiting Season

As we explored the stories of Abraham and Sarah, Joseph, David, and Hannah, we realize that some of God’s most significant work happens in the waiting season between promise and fulfillment.

This sacred quiet space is not a punishment; it is often a gift wrapped in patience, growth, and deeper intimacy with Him. One day, when we look back, we may realize that the waiting did not weaken our faith, but strengthened it. Let’s pray together now for the strength to wait well.

A Prayer For the Waiting Season written over a wintery background

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How to Deal with Negative People and Harsh Words

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Dealing with people in any capacity means we will sometimes face negativity and harsh words. That negativity may come from family members, supervisors, coworkers, or even other believers. As Christians, we must be careful to respond differently.

Sometimes the words come unexpectedly—during a stressful meeting, a family gathering, or even when we are already emotionally tired. A careless comment or sharp tone can linger longer than we expect, replaying in our minds and weighing on our hearts. If we are honest, navigating relationships can be one of the most challenging parts of living out our faith.

No matter what, we must learn how to handle difficult people in ways that honor God and reflect our faith. We do not have to ignore the hurt or pretend things don’t affect us, but we must choose responses that align with Christ’s example.

There are prayerful, powerful ways to deal with negative people and harsh words so the enemy does not gain a victory in our lives or our witness. Let’s explore them together.

Deal with Negative People and Harsh Words by Praying First

Scripture reminds us, “A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger” (Proverbs 15:1). God does not require us to respond in our own strength, but He does want us to depend on Him when emotions run high and words cut deep.

Whenever we face an upsetting situation—especially when someone speaks harshly to us—our first response should not be retaliation, but prayer.

It is usually best to pause, step away if possible, and talk to God before responding. Tell God exactly what happened and how you feel. He cares deeply about every detail of your life and will help calm your heart and guide your next step.

The enemy is crafty, and he desires to catch us off guard so that we react in anger, say something we regret, or damage our testimony. He wants others to see believers as hypocritical rather than Christ-like.

Prayer interrupts that plan and is the best option in the situation. We see this modeled in the life of Jesus. When He was falsely accused, mocked, and insulted, He often withdrew to pray rather than defend Himself in anger (Luke 5:16). Even in His suffering, He chose communion with the Father over confrontation with people. Jesus’ example teaches us that prayer is not weakness—it is strength under control. When we pray rather than react, we allow God to work on our behalf, which preserves our peace.

Pray a Blessing on the Negative Person

One of the most powerful—and complex—things we can do is pray for the person who hurt us. When someone mistreats us, we must give it to God. We do this by placing both the person and our emotions in a “prayer bubble,” intentionally lifting them to God and asking Him to bless them, reach them, and surround them with His love. We envelop the situation in prayer, knowing that it was an attack from the enemy, not from a person.

best thing we can do is Pray rather than react

We must be willing to offer grace to others, and one way to do so is to remember that “hurt people, hurt people.” The person who hurt you may have done so because they have recently experienced pain, brokenness, or may not know Christ as you do. Our response is to ask God to intervene and draw them closer to Him.

Joseph modeled this kind of grace when he forgave the very brothers who betrayed him and sold him into slavery. Instead of seeking revenge against his brothers, Joseph said, “You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good” (Genesis 50:20). His forgiveness freed him from bitterness and allowed God’s greater purpose to unfold.

This kind of prayer honors God, but it also does something significant in us. Praying for those who hurt us shows our willingness to let go of anger, preventing bitterness from taking root in our hearts. Prayer restores our peace. Most importantly, it prevents a single negative moment from ruining the entire day by reminding us that our battle is not against people but against spiritual forces seeking to steal our joy and damage our witness.

Don't let negativity spoil your day with cup of coffee that says happy

Pray for Wisdom and Direction

Praying before dealing with negativity helps us to listen and better determine what God would want us to do next. Sometimes, God will lead us to remain silent and let Him fight the battles. Other times, God will direct us to address the issues calmly and directly. He may prompt us to send a gentle message, speak kindly, or seek wise counsel.

Sometimes, the wisest thing we can do is act immediately. Other times, wisdom is simply giving our emotions enough room to settle so we don’t say something we’ll regret. When we’re stuck in that ‘what do I do?’ moment, we can lean on God to help us figure out the next move. We must trust God to show us whether the “right thing” to do is to set a firm boundary, clear up a messy misunderstanding, or simply choose graceful silence. He will gently guide us. The Bible promises that God generously gives wisdom to those who ask (James 1:5).

The key is not to succumb to the enemy by acting out of emotion, but rather to move in obedience to God. Praying and letting God speak to your heart is essential. God can give words that are firm, yet loving, honest, yet peaceful. We must trust Him to show us when to speak and when to be still. When we surrenderto His will, God can transform conflict into opportunities for growth and testimony.

Guard Your Heart While You Trust God to Deal With Negative People

Loving others does not mean allowing repeated harm. The Bible tells us to guard our hearts, for everything we do flows from it (Proverbs 4:23). This Scripture reminds us that it is okay to guard our hearts not out of selfishness, but because our hearts are the wellspring of our whole lives. Sometimes honoring God means creating healthy boundaries with people who continually speak negativity into our lives.

A Prayer to Deal With Negative People and Harsh Words

When life starts to feel overwhelming, it’s easy to think we have to grit our teeth and get through it. But the truth is, God never expected us to carry the weight all by ourselves. He promises to be with us always, but in His kindness, He also places people in our lives to support us during difficult seasons.

Whether through prayer, Scripture, or the encouragement of another believer, God provides what we need to endure. We do not have to harden our hearts to survive negativity. We can remain soft, rooted, and peaceful—because He walks with us.

Whenever we need a helping hand, it’s very beneficial to seek out godly friends who will pray with us, encourage us, and remind us of God’s promises. We need people who will sit with us in the mess, remind us of what’s true when we’ve forgotten, and lift us in prayer when we’re too tired to find the words ourselves.

God often uses the people around us to bring the breakthrough we’ve been looking for. There is strength in praying as a community of believers. On that note, let’s go to God in prayer together right now.

Praying hands and a Prayer to deal with negative people and harsh words

Peace In The Presence of Negativity 7 Day Devotional

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What the Bible Says About Pride — And How to Remain Humble

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Pride: A Subtle Sin

Most of us know that all sin separates us from God, but Scripture tells us there is one sin He specifically hates: pride. And the truth is, we are not immune to it. Pride is subtle. It slips quietly into our thoughts and attitudes, showing up as self-reliance, superiority, defensiveness, or the need to be right. Because it can hide so easily in our hearts, we all need to pause and honestly examine ourselves before God.

Pride matters because it draws our hearts away from God and His best for us. The good news is that our loving Father gently leads us back when we humble ourselves before Him. As we take a closer look at pride together, let’s remember — we’re all on the same journey of learning to walk in humility. None of us stands above the struggle, and all of us need God’s grace and mercy to recognize pride and replace it with a heart fully surrendered to Him.

Pride Keeps Us From Seeking God

God hates pride for many reasons, but one of the biggest is that it keeps us from seeking Him and leads us to be arrogant and haughty. Walking closely with God begins with recognizing His strength and admitting our limits (2 Corinthians 12:9). But when pride creeps in, we start to believe we have life figured out on our own. We stop acknowledging our need for God’s grace and mercy. Pride makes it hard for us to admit when we’re wrong, ask for forgiveness, or receive God’s loving correction. Little by little, it pulls our hearts away from dependence on Him (Proverbs 16:18; Proverbs 11:2).

The enemy knows this. In fact, pride is one of his favorite weapons against us — because it’s the very sin that led to his own fall. Scripture tells us that Satan’s heart became filled with pride over his beauty and position, and that attitude of superiority led him to rebel against God (Ezekiel 28:17; Isaiah 14:12–15). Ever since, he has been working to convince us that we don’t really need God either.

When we give in to pride, we begin relying on our own strength instead of God’s. Next, because we no longer honor them, we neglect powerful spiritual tools such as prayer, faith, and Scripture—the very things we need most in our daily battles (Ephesians 6:10–18). But God desires something entirely different for us. He calls us to a humble heart that remembers who He is: our Creator, our Savior, and the One who rescued us from destruction.

Pride Distorts Our View of Ourselves

Another reason pride is so dangerous is that it distorts the way we see ourselves. When pride settles in, we begin to think more highly of ourselves than we should (Romans 12:3). We may start comparing ourselves to others, assuming we are doing better spiritually or morally, rather than measuring ourselves against God’s holiness. Instead of recognizing that anything good in us is the result of God’s grace, pride convinces us that we earned it or deserve the credit.

As followers of Jesus, we are called to serve — and Jesus Himself modeled humble service by washing the disciples’ feet (John 13:14–15). Pride resists unnoticed or humble tasks. Pride says, “That job is beneath me.” Humility is the opposite of pride and is expressed when a person is willing to serve wherever God leads, whether anyone sees them or not (Colossians 3:23–24).

When we see ourselves clearly — loved by God, dependent on Him, and no better than anyone else — pride begins to lose its grip on our hearts. God gives grace to the humble, and in humility we become more open to His shaping work in our lives (James 4:6; 1 Peter 5:5–6).

Pride Can Lead to Boasting and Seeking Approval

Pride doesn’t always show up loudly, but when it does, one way it can surface is through boasting or seeking others’ approval. Scripture warns us about this: when we crave recognition or validation, our hearts can slowly shift from wanting to please God to wanting to impress people (Galatians 1:10). We cannot let pride draw our attention to ourselves or measure our worth by the opinions of others.

God calls us to remember that He has supplied our gifts, talents, abilities, opportunities, and successes because of His kindness and grace. We must remember that everything we have is a gift from God. We can not let pride cause us to draw our attention to ourselves or measure our worth by the opinions of others.

Boasting and seeking praise may feel harmless, but they quietly train our hearts to rely on human approval rather than God’s guidance. When that happens, we can easily miss His voice and direction in our lives. God calls us instead to think soberly and humbly about ourselves, remembering that anything good in us comes from His grace alone.

Our desire is to be seen by God rather than applauded by people, so that we experience peace and freedom. When we no longer have to prove ourselves or fear what others think, we can focus on building genuine relationships, loving others sincerely, and honoring God in all we do — trusting Him to be the One who sees and rewards us (Matthew 6:1–4; James 4:10).

Scripture Quote James 4:10 ESV Bible Verse

Pride Causes Strife and Conflict With Others

Pride doesn’t just affect our relationship with God—it also affects how we relate to one another. In the Bible, God calls us to treat others with kindness and humility. However, pride can lead to feelings of resentment, jealousy, and defensiveness, particularly when we feel threatened or insecure. Over time, these feelings can create distance, lead to arguments, and broken relationships (Proverbs 13:10).

Pride can also make us defensive. It can be hard to receive correction or wisdom from others when we struggle with pride, because we may feel offended, criticized, or threatened. As pride takes root, we begin to speak harshly to people, dismiss their feelings, or assume our opinions matter more than others. Sadly, sometimes we may not even realize that our words or actions are hurtful. When pride takes effect, we struggle to apologize when needed, because we justify our poor behavior rather than confess wrongdoing.

God cares deeply about how we treat people and encourages us to be humble and gentle with each other (Ephesians 4:2). Biblically, God expects us to demonstrate humility, which means that we value people, listen well, and remain willing to apologize when needed. Humility reminds us that relationships matter more than being right and winning. God wants us to stay humble because He knows that, over time, pride prevents us from experiencing His best. When we choose humility, we open the door to healing, unity, and the growth of God’s peace in our lives (Philippians 2:3–4).

Scripture Quote Ephesians 4:2 ESV Bible Verse

Pride Attempts to Rob God of His Glory and Blocks Our Blessings

One of the most significant risks of being prideful is that it shifts glory from God to ourselves. When pride creeps in, we begin to believe that our abilities, achievements, and successes come from our own strength. Pride tricks us into thinking we are self-sufficient, but this mindset challenges God’s rightful place in our lives and diminishes our awareness of His goodness. This is a serious offense because God refuses to share His glory.

As we give God the glory He deserves, we position ourselves to receive the grace and blessings. Our Father loves to pour out His love and blessings on those who walk humbly with Him. The enemy does not want us to be blessed, so he uses pride to whisper that we earned what we have — that we deserve the credit. When we believe that lie, our hearts slowly drift from gratitude and worship toward self-reliance. But God lovingly reminds us that all glory belongs to Him alone (Isaiah 42:8). Scripture declares that “God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble (James 4:6).

Combat Pride By Learning To Remain Humble

The Bible is clear that pride leads to many negative consequences. Some are subtle, but no less damaging to our relationships. Scripture also shows how to combat pride: by being humble. When we demonstrate humility, we recognize our limitations and remember that it is God’s strength, wisdom, and mercy that sustain us, which allows us to experience God’s presence, guidance, and peace in our lives.

The characteristics of a genuinely humble person include the ability to quickly admit mistakes, seek assistance, and celebrate others’ successes. By walking in humility, we regularly self-examine our lives and invite God to illuminate any areas of pride (Psalm 139:23–24). One helpful way to do this is by honestly examining our prayer lives.

Identify Pride by Assessing Our Prayer Life

One of the most important ways to gauge whether we live a life of humility is to examine our prayer life. Praying is our daily acknowledgment that God is our source of strength and wisdom (Philippians 4:6–7). When we rarely pray — or only pray in moments of crisis — it may reveal an attitude of self-reliance rather than humble dependence on God. Pride says, “I’ve got this,” but humility says, “Lord, I need you because apart from You I can do nothing” (John 15:5).

Our prayer life also reveals whether we are willing to confess our wrongdoings and repent. In our prayer time, we ask our loving Father to forgive us. If this is hard to do, it may suggest how hard it is to ask forgiveness from imperfect humans. Pride makes apologizing difficult, even when we know we’re wrong. Humility admits failure, seeks forgiveness, and trusts God to restore (1 John 1:9). When we humble ourselves before God in prayer, we open our hearts to His correction and guidance — and He gently leads us into the life He designed for us (Psalm 25:9).

Scripture and Bible Verse Psalm 25:9 ESV

True humility in prayer also means surrendering our will to God’s. When we remain humble, we resist the urge to insist that He answer our prayers in a certain way and instead learn to trust His wisdom and timing (Proverbs 3:5–6). We are open to correction and guidance and allow God to help us become who He designed us to be.

Let’s Pray to Combat Pride and Learn to Live With Humility

Humility isn’t about thinking less of ourselves — it’s about thinking rightly about God, others, and ourselves. It is choosing dependence over self-reliance, gratitude over entitlement, and service over recognition. Let’s pray and ask God to help us overcome pride and learn to walk in humility.

A prayer To help us live humbly and without pride

Tile Page Choosing and Practicing Humility In our Everyday Walk

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How Seeking Acceptance From Others Can Steal Your Joy

Posted by Krystal Simpson Live Joyfully, Christian Living 6 Comments

In our quest for connection and belonging, many of us find ourselves seeking the approval and acceptance of others. Especially in today’s world of social media, striving to be liked, admired, or validated can consume us. Constantly chasing approval can come at a cost—it can rob us of the joy, peace, and contentment that comes from living authentically and focusing solely on God’s acceptance.

Wanting the approval of others can lead us down some slippery slopes. If we head down the unhealthy path of seeking acceptance from others, we may find ourselves walking along roads that take our joy and peace. We may even fall into sin, which is not what God would want for us. God tells us to focus on pleasing Him and not man. Let’s look at the trouble we can get into if we are not careful.

How Seeking Acceptance Can Steal Your Joy

Seeking Acceptance From Others Steals Our Joy By Causing Anxiety

Anxiety occurs when we excessively worry about the opinions of others rather than focusing on God’s perspective. For example, women often worry about their appearance, striving to be thin, attractive, or fashionable. It’s natural to want to stay in shape, look beautiful, and keep up with trends, but these desires shouldn’t overwhelm us. We need to be cautious not to seek approval from others to the extent that it leads to anxiety.

We must look in the mirror, knowing God created us in His image. Even though we may be dealing with aging skin, gray hair, extra weight, or clothes that don’t fit the way they used to, we should still find our approval through God’s eyes because we know He looks at our hearts and loves us completely.

True peace and joy come not from the opinions of others but from trusting in God's unwavering approval

When we base our worth on what others think, we inevitably open the door to anxiety. Trying to meet the expectations of others can feel like walking on eggshells, constantly worrying about how we’re perceived. This anxiety stems from the fear of rejection or not measuring up, and it can leave us feeling restless and insecure. Instead of resting in God’s unconditional love, we become trapped in a cycle of trying to please people, a pursuit that can never fully satisfy.

The Bible reminds us in Philippians 4:6-7 to let go of anxiety by focusing on God’s acceptance: “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.” True peace and joy come not from the opinions of others but from trusting in God’s unwavering approval.

Seeking Acceptance From Others Can Lead to Feelings of Depression

It’s important to understand that winning approval and acceptance from others is complex, and even when we do gain it, it’s often fleeting. What people consider acceptable can change frequently, leaving us to chase an ever-shifting standard. But thankfully, God never changes. His love and approval are constant, providing us with a firm foundation in a world that often demands we adjust to fit in.

Relying on external validation such as social media likes, compliments, or affirmations from others for our sense of self-worth can lead to feelings of emptiness and inadequacy when that approval doesn’t come. Constantly seeking validation from others can lead to emotional pain, rejection, and even depression. The more we depend on people to define our worth, the more vulnerable we become to feelings of unworthiness when they withhold their approval.

For am I now seeking the approval of man, or of God_ Or am I trying to please man_ If I were still trying to please man, I would not be a servant of Christ.

If we’re not careful, we can open the door for the enemy to attack our sense of self-worth. The enemy will gladly reinforce feelings of isolation, feeding us lies about our worthlessness. That’s why it’s crucial to be cautious about seeking acceptance from people and instead focus on finding our worth in God.

When we shift our focus away from external approval and seek only God’s validation, we protect ourselves from the emotional pain of rejection and the never-ending cycle of trying to please others. God’s love for us is unwavering; in Him, we find true joy and worth that isn’t dependent on people’s ever-changing opinions.

Depression often sets in when we believe we’ve failed to live up to the standards we think others have set for us. But God never intended for us to find our identity in the acceptance of others. Psalm 139:14 reminds us, “I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made.” Our worth comes from God, not from people. Focusing on His love frees us from the emotional rollercoaster of seeking approval and allows us to experience joy in who He created us to be.

Our Worth Comes From God, Not from People

Seeking Acceptance From Others Can Lead to Sin

Seeking acceptance and approval from others can easily lead us into sin. In our efforts to impress others, we may often compromise our values without realizing it. For example, we might exaggerate, stretch the truth, or tell small lies to gain favor in someone’s eyes. Giving insincere compliments or pretending to know something we don’t so that we seem more knowledgeable may seem harmless, but it can quickly become a chronic form of dishonesty, a sin.

The desire for approval can also lead to other subtle sins, like gossiping to gain attention or speaking negatively about others to fit in. When we seek validation from people, jealousy and covetousness can creep in as we compare ourselves to those whose approval we crave. These feelings can drive us to envy what others have, which Scripture also warns against.

Perhaps most dangerously, when we place the opinions of others above God’s, we risk slipping into idolatry. Valuing human approval more than God’s acceptance leads us to prioritize people’s thoughts and judgments over His will and truth. In doing so, we compromise our faith, betray our beliefs, and act against our conscience to avoid rejection or criticism.

So whether we are at home or away, we make it our aim to please him. 2 Corinthians 5:9 ESV

Romans 12:2 reminds us not to conform to the standards of this world: “Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.” Instead of seeking approval from others, we should renew our minds and focus on what God thinks of us. Doing so empowers us to resist peer pressure, temptation, and the urge to sin.

Seeking God’s approval brings freedom while seeking human approval entangles us in sin. When we anchor ourselves in God’s acceptance, we can live with integrity, remain true to our faith, and experience the joy of walking in righteousness—free from the fear of others’ opinions.

Avoid Seeking Acceptance From Others, Choose Joy Instead

Once we stop seeking approval from others, we can embrace our true selves. Living authentically brings a deep sense of peace and joy because we are no longer living for the fleeting applause of others but for the steady love of God. This shift allows us to live with integrity, confidence, and purpose. We become more resilient to rejection and criticism because we understand that others’ perceptions of us do not determine our worth. Instead, we are grounded in the knowledge that God sees, loves, and accepts us just as we are. This freedom leads to a fulfilling life filled with joy, purpose, and peace.

A Prayer to Stop Seeking Acceptance From Others

Seeking acceptance from others can be a joy-stealer, causing anxiety and depression and even leading us down paths that pull us away from God. The key to lasting joy is to seek acceptance from God, who loves us unconditionally without needing performance. When we rest in that truth, we experience freedom, peace, and joy that no human approval can match. Understanding that only God’s approval matters, let’s take a moment to pray and ask God to help us stop seeking others’ approval.

Click-Here-to-Download-the-printable-prayer

A Prayer to Stop Seeking Acceptance from others — A Prayer To Stop Seeking Acceptance From Others

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Let Your Light Shine in the Darkness

Posted by Krystal Simpson Live Joyfully, Christian Living 3 Comments

Christians must be a guiding light for others, but how can we effectively let our light shine in the darkness without appearing overly assertive in our faith? As disciples of Christ, it is our responsibility to lead by example and inspire others so that we show them the way. However, expressing our faith without appearing forceful or pushy can be challenging. How do we remain true to our convictions while also respecting the opinions and beliefs of others? One way to approach this challenge is to compare our role to that of a lighthouse. By doing so, we can better understand our duty to let our light shine without imposing our beliefs on others.

Let Your Light Shine Like a Lighthouse

When we wholeheartedly devote ourselves to walking with God and following Jesus, we may be excited and desire to share the happiness and tranquility we have discovered. However, we should exercise caution and avoid being too forceful, as this may have the opposite effect and repel others instead of drawing them in.

Sometimes, people distance themselves from God, the church, or Christians because they may perceive our enthusiasm as overwhelming or pushy. Therefore, we should be cautious and not drive others away from the love of God instead of leading them to Jesus. We must strike a balance between being a source of guidance and respecting the diverse paths of others.

Many people avoid God or church because they perceive them as unforgiving and judgmental. Sometimes, we unintentionally come across as overly critical in our enthusiasm to explain Christian values or beliefs, which can result in people thinking that God is angry with them, their situations are hopeless, or worse, that God is punishing them for the mistakes they have made.

As Christians, it doesn’t mean we should keep our faith to ourselves. We should strive to be like a lighthouse by shining the light of Jesus to others. Our light should be bright enough to brighten up our homes and our city. It should also serve as a guide to point others towards our heavenly Father. Like a lighthouse, we must stand firm and tall, providing a steady beam of light to lead those lost in the turbulent sea of life. Our approach should be gentle and illuminating rather than forceful or demanding. There are three similarities between being a Christian and a lighthouse.

A lighthouse shines and gives hope.
A lighthouse is trusted to stand alone.
A lighthouse is well-constructed and built to last.

A Lighthouse Shines and Gives Hope

Imagine the lighthouse beaming its steady light through stormy nights. It doesn’t judge the ships caught in the waves but offers a reliable beacon of hope, a guiding point in the darkness. We can embody that same unwavering presence, offering a safe harbor of compassion and understanding for those navigating their journeys.

As Christians, it’s essential to remember that the lighthouse tower cannot save people but can emit an intense light to guide ships. In the same way, our lives are like ships on the sea of life, and the role of the lighthouse is to shine the light that offers hope to those searching for it. As Christians, we must allow the light of Christ to shine in our lives. Our responsibility is to be a beacon while leaving the task of salvation to Jesus alone, as He is the only one who can bring about salvation.

We must remember Jesus himself spoke in parables and stories, inviting people to discover the truth for themselves rather than dictating it. We can embrace this approach, too, sharing our experiences and values in a way that resonates with hearts rather than bombards minds.

A Lighthouse is Trusted to Stand Alone

Imagine a lighthouse standing alone in the distance, appearing isolated. As believers in Christ, we may sometimes feel alone, but we must remember that we are never truly alone. We must remain vigilant like a lighthouse constantly scanning the horizon for distressed ships. Christians should always be watchful and attentive to those around them, ready to offer guidance and support.

Christians should remain unwavering in their beliefs, providing stability and comfort during life’s difficulties. Christians represent Christ even when those around them do not. It is essential to confidently share our faith with humility, letting our light shine through our actions and character.

We must remain steadfast in our faith, no matter our challenges. Like a lighthouse that endures the same storms as the ships it guides, the rock anchors the lighthouse and the Christian’s life. Through thick and thin, the lighthouse remains a beacon, a testament to its purpose. Similarly, Christians persevere through trials and tribulations, their faith constantly witnessing hope and stability.

Although the lighthouse may appear alone, its foundation anchors it against the fiercest storms. A Christian’s faith serves as their unwavering foundation. Scripture, prayer, and personal conviction provide the spiritual strength to endure life’s challenges. Unlike traditional lighthouses, Jesus fuels the Christian light rather than earthly resources. Our light should reflect God’s love, an eternal flame that shines regardless of external circumstances.

A Lighthouse is Well Constructed and Built to Last

Christians whose lives are grounded in faith and whose character is above reproach are like well-constructed lighthouses. However, we must always allow Christ Jesus, the engineer of our lives, to perfect us and our light so we don’t lead someone astray. Just like a lighthouse guides future generations, so do Christians leave a lasting impact through their actions, inspiring others to carry the torch of faith and love.

We must strive to leave a positive impact on the lives of others in our families, churches, cities, towns, and workplaces. To do this, we must constantly adapt to our changing world and embrace growth through learning, reflection, and service, allowing the Holy Spirit to lead us. As Christians in a changing world, we must refine our light continuously to illuminate the world more effectively.

Give Light to all of the House Bible verse

It’s not about pushing our beliefs onto others but inspiring and guiding them to find their faith journey. We must let our light shine and be a beacon of hope and love for all those who may need it. If we have opportunities to talk about our faith with others, we should only do so when they show interest, and we should use kind and respectful language.

The main thing is to focus on understanding and getting to know the other person rather than trying to persuade them to agree with us. We must listen well, ask thoughtful questions, and show that we genuinely care about them. Doing so can build bridges of love and connection with others.

As Christians, we must remember that the storms come, but they also go. Never lose hope. God has us in the palm of his hand. He has fully equipped us to stand and not fail. Although we may not feel ready for the storm, God has provided us with His strength through His Word and covers us with His mighty hand and spiritual armor.

We must faithfully stand so that we give consistent light. We should stand with our lights shining, and we should always be ready to share the love and message of the Lord with others.

We must examine our lives and honestly ask ourselves whether we let our light shine like a lighthouse. Our lives mustn’t lead others astray, even during crises or chaotic times. As a lighthouse, we should bring peace and a reminder that there is a place of safety, even when we feel like we can not find it.

A Prayer For Peace And Brotherly Love

Christians must learn to let their light shine in the darkness. The enemy wants to dim the light of Christians. We must shine our light even when surrounded by darkness. The enemy may try to discourage us by reminding us of past hurts, stigma, or negative experiences. He wants to limit our ability to spread the Word of God and the light of His love. We should not let the enemy win. We must ask God to bring peace and brotherly love, especially during these dark times in the world and our nation. Let us be the lighthouse others search for and continue to stand for what is right.

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What Does Walking With God Really Mean?

Posted by Krystal Simpson Live Joyfully, Christian Living 2 Comments

The phrase “walking with God” is used in the Bible to describe a close, intimate relationship with God. It is essential to understand that walking with God is a journey, not a destination, and is not without trials and troubles. It is a lifelong process of growing closer to God and learning to live according to His will. Walking with God may not always be easy, but when we allow Him to, no matter what ups and downs we face, God will walk with us, guide, protect, and provide for us.

There will be times when we experience great joy and peace as we walk with God. We will feel His presence in our lives and know He guides us. There will also be times when we experience pain and suffering. We may feel lost and alone and question why God allows these things to happen. Remembering that God is with us during the good and the bad times is essential. He loves us, and He wants what is best for us. As we continue to grow in our faith and knowledge of God, we learn that He may not always answer our prayers the way we want, but He will always work things out for our good. As we walk with God, we will better understand His will and purpose for our life, but what does walking with God really mean?

How to Walk With God

Knowing how to walk with God is crucial because it leads to peace and assurance that we are never alone. Walking with God and moving forward with Him means spending time with Him. When we spend time with God in specific ways, we learn to stride with Him. Being in stride allows our steps to follow His desires for our lives. We want to see everything from God’s perspective and standards and walk so that our lives stay hidden in God. When we walk with God, we strive to be in sync as we move in the same direction and instep with His plans. There are four critical things to do to walk with God:

Pray and spend time in His presence.
Read the Bible and learn more about Him.
Obey and do what He asks you to do.
Trust Him and obey Him.

Walk With God By Spending Time in Prayer

Although we can do several things to ensure we walk and stride with God. The most impactful thing to do is to communicate with Him through prayer. As we begin our mornings and throughout our day, we should pray to ask God to lead us and guide us. Praying invites God into our lives. When we pray, we communicate what is on our hearts, but when we take the time to sit quietly and spend time in God’s presence, praying also becomes a time for God to speak to us about what is on His heart and, more specifically, what we can do to support His plans.

God will not force us to listen. Most of the time, the Heavenly Father will not yell over the busyness of our lives. Instead, He waits for us to find time to pray with Him. God wants us to prioritize our time with Him. Only when we do will we be able to hear His still, small voice. We need to listen to the Father’s voice to seek His guidance. If we feel that we have been too busy to hear from God, it may be time to add fasting to our prayers.

When we add fasting to our prayers, we give up food and instead draw near to God, allowing Him to satisfy us. In the Bible, God’s people often fasted immediately before a major victory, miracle, or answer to prayer. Fasting and praying are essential. Together, they prepare us for a blessing because they help us hear God better.

Walk With God By Reading the Bible

The second most important thing we can do to walk with God is read the Bible and learn more about His character and will. We understand more about God, his Son, Jesus, and the Holy Spirit when we read and study God’s Word. Additionally, we learn from the examples of all the people in the Bible.

We must evaluate the lives of the different characters in the Bible to learn what it means to walk with God. As we read the stories of Biblical characters, we will see that while some walked with God successfully, others did not. We can learn from these successes and failures to clearly understand what it means to walk with God.

There was a man named Enoch who walked so successfully with God that the Bible states, “Enoch walked with God, and he was not, for God took him (Genesis 5:24 ESV).” We understand this verse to mean that Enoch did not die a normal death but was taken by God because he walked with Him.

Walk With God By Obeying

Third, we must obey God. We must follow God’s commands and live according to His standards, but we must also learn to hear God’s voice so that we can listen and obey when He directs us toward His purpose. God will call us to do something, go somewhere, or do something, and we must “have ears to hear” and be willing to obey his voice.

Walking with God is a discipline. It is not a push-and-pull relationship. It is not a matter of us trying to force God to do our will or of God trying to force us to do His will. Walking with God is not running ahead of Him and then wondering where He is, nor is it waiting until we have a clear revelation regarding how everything will work out. Instead, walking with God is a relationship of listening and obeying because we trust God.

Walking with God is not running ahead of him

Countless stories exist in the Bible to remind us about the importance of obedience. A big fish swallowed Jonah (Jonah 1 ESV), King Saul lost his throne (1 Samuel 13 ESV), and Moses was forbidden to go into the Promised Land (Numbers 20 ESV) because Moses did not correctly carry out God’s directions.

Walk With God By Trusting and Surrendering

Walking with God is a journey of surrender. It requires letting go of our control and allowing God to lead us by His Spirit. When we walk with God, we trust He knows what is best for us, even when we don’t understand it, and we surrender to His will by allowing Him to lead us in the way He wants. Although we may have our own opinions or desires, we willingly put those aside and follow God’s leading, even if it is not what we would have chosen.

Walking with God is a journey of faith. It is a journey of trusting that our Father is good, loves us, and has a plan for our lives. It is not always easy to walk with God. There will be times when we question His leading. We may feel lost, alone, or uncertain, but we must keep walking by faith. We must trust and surrender, knowing that God will always lead us correctly.

The Benefits of Walking With God

Walking with God, we feel His peace, guidance, strength, and hope. We can also experience the joy of knowing that we are fulfilling His purpose. This peace we gain when we walk with God is not the absence of trouble but the presence of God. It is a peace that surpasses all understanding (Philippians 4:7).

As we walk with God, He will guide us and help us navigate life. He will show us the right path and help us make wise decisions. God will give us the strength to face the challenges of life. He will be our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble (Psalm 46:1). He will also give us hope for the future because God promises He will never leave or forsake us (Hebrews 13:5).

Walking with God through the ups and downs of life is not always easy, but it is always worth it. When we walk with God, we can experience His peace, joy, and hope. We can also share the satisfaction of living according to His will. Let’s pray together now and ask God to help us walk in sync with Him.

A Prayer To Improve Our Walk With God

No matter whether you are a new Christian or a more mature one. We must constantly maintain our walk with God. Praying and asking god to help us stay in sync with his steps is essential. He loves us, and he will help with whatever we need. Let’s pray to improve our walk with God.

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What Does The Bible Say About Judging?

Posted by Krystal Simpson Live Joyfully, Christian Living Leave a Comment

Often, we hear people complain about feeling judged by fellow Christians and the Christian community, but what does the Bible say about judging? As I prayed and asked God about this blog post, I asked Him to give me a proper understanding of judging and judgment. As Christians, we should want to live life in a way that pleases God and encourages others to learn more about Him and His son, Jesus, but if we are not careful, we can become a stumbling block, meaning we can stand in the way of someone’s salvation.

Judging and passing judgment have become a little controversial. The issue is that some people think they are permitted to judge by the Bible scripture in John 7:24, which states, “Judge not according to the appearance but judge righteous judgment.” This scripture has led some to believe it is alright to judge if they do so correctly.

I am concerned that too many Scriptures state “judge not” or “there is only one judge.” I believe that when we do not understand something, we must pray and ask God for Wisdom. He promises to help us understand everything from His perspective by taking us to His Word. We can learn by studying the Scriptures and examining Jesus’s life.

Some may disagree with me because now that they have experienced salvation, they feel justified in judging or passing judgment on others. Some Christians may believe they must confront others who may not be doing everything just so. These Christians want to be sure and tell others about themselves, but the Bible cautions us. We should scrutinize two things:

What does the Bible say about judging and judgment?
What did Christ do when faced with the opportunity to pass judgment?

What Does Judging Others Mean?

There is a vast difference in the Bible between judging ourselves and judging others. Whenever we see anything in the Bible about judging others, we often find the words “do not” next to them. Unfortunately, as Christians, we can unwisely and incorrectly pass judgment on others if we are not careful.

Judging others has a negative connotation and means to make a conclusion, render a verdict, or declare someone’s worth or worthiness. It implies that you, as a human, have all the information to make a correct judgment and that your opinion aligns perfectly with God’s assessment of a person or their situation.

Judging Others Leads To Becoming Judgemental

The problem with judging is that when we judge, we place ourselves higher than others and assume that we are more morally correct than someone else. Worst still, we ultimately forget that God sent His son Jesus to save us in his mercy and loving kindness. We must never forget what God did for us. God extended a gift to us in His mercy that we did not deserve. Our thankfulness should lead us to gently and lovingly extend the opportunity to others.

Another problem with judging others is that we become judgmental and often can not see the whole picture. We do not understand the events that led to a person’s current situation, nor can we know how God plans to use the person’s life in the future as a testimony of His goodness and mercy.

The Bible explains that we can not understand why things happen based on whether a person sins. Humans can become judgmental by incorrectly judging that a person’s condition results from sin, which can be hurtful. An example of this malicious behavior is in the story of Job, whose friends assumed that he had sinned when he fell on hard times.

A similar story exists about a blind man in John 9. In this story, as Jesus heals the blind man, the disciples ask Him who sinned to cause the man to be born blind. Jesus answered, “It was not that this man sinned, or his parents, but that the works of God might be displayed in him.

What Should We Do To Stop Judging

As we journey through life, we will make mistakes and get off track. Whether we make intentional or unintentional mistakes, we should pray and repent as soon as we recognize our errors. When we self-examine, we can realize our errors faster and quickly find forgiveness, love, mercy, restoration, and gentleness. Learning how much we rely on forgiveness can help us know to stop judging others.

As we recognize that we are all flawed humans, we can hopefully begin to see that everyone needs grace and forgiveness often. The Bible says that all have sinned and come short of the glory of God (Romans 3:23); therefore, forgiveness, grace, and love are not just some things to obtain but also something to give to others. We may feel our sins are not as bad as someone else’s, but God does not view sin this way. The Bible says all our righteousness is as filthy rags (Isaiah 64:6). We are only made righteous based on what Jesus did on the cross, and He died for absolutely every sinner. We would be wrong to accept the gift of salvation but withhold it from others because we judge others as being “too much of a sinner.”

Titus Scripture to Remind Us To Stop Judging Others

We must always remain mindful of all God has saved and delivered us from. We were once foolish and disobedient, but Jesus saved us. If we meet someone who has not experienced salvation, we can not get so lifted in pride that we forget our past. We mustn’t speak to others in a condescending or judging way. Instead, we must allow others to see the kindness and love of God so that He can save them just as he did us.

Our job is not to be a bully, not to be mean, and not to be hateful, but to allow our light to shine and to be ready with an answer when someone asks for a reason we have hope and joy. Just as the Lord delivered and helped us find peace and joy, He wants to do that for others. God depends on us to listen to His voice to reconcile others to Christ, not run them away from His love.

Jesus Shows Us How To Offer Restoration Instead Of Judging

The Bible states that God sent His son Jesus not to condemn or judge the world but so that we could be saved through Him (John 3:17). There were times when Jesus could have sentenced someone for their wrong, but he did not do it. Instead, he showed us how to bear each other’s burdens in love. He showed us by example how to offer forgiveness and salvation.

One of the best illustrations of restoration in the Bible is when the crowd expects Jesus to condemn a woman caught in the act of adultery. She was guilty of sin, and according to the law, she deserved stoning. The crowd demanded an answer from Jesus about what to do. According to the Bible, in this story, rather than cast judgment, Jesus invited those who wanted to exact punishment first to examine their own lives.

Jesus loves every sinner the same way He loves each of us. He does not want any person to perish. While the Lord does not condone wrong, He came to Earth to save us, and He does so individually. My issues and propensity to sin may be different than yours. You may have weaknesses that differ from mine, but we all need His forgiveness.

In Galatians 6:1-2, Jesus commands that if a brother commits any transgressions, we who are spiritual (children of God, filled with the Spirit) should restore them in a spirit of gentleness. Jesus shows us this by example when he lovingly allowed the adulterous woman, you and me, the ability to be free from sin and its consequences that cause both shame and guilt. Instead of giving each of us what we rightfully deserve, He allowed us to experience love, forgiveness, and an opportunity to change our lives by faith.

Now that we are on the right road, Jesus wants us to help bring back a sinner from his wanderings (James 5:20 ESV). We must bear each other’s burdens and show one another love, mercy, forgiveness, and patience.

Judgment Will Come

The Bible states that there will come a time of judgment. We will give an account of how we lived and followed the Word of the Lord. The Bible says that each of us will one day die. After we die, there will be a judgment for each of us (Hebrews 9:27). In 2 Corinthians 5:10, the Bible explicitly states that “we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ, so that each one may receive what is due for what he has done in the body, whether good or evil .”

When we reach the end of our lives, we will answer Jesus regarding how we lived. I imagine we will answer questions regarding whether we accepted His gift of salvation, how we treated others, and how we spoke to others. The Bible says that on the day of judgment, people will account for every careless word they spoke (Matthew 12:16), and we are warned not to judge others.

We know that Jesus will judge us because John 5:22 says, “The Father judges no one, but has given all judgment to the Son.” It also tells us that every knee will bow and every tongue will confess to God (Romans 14:10-12). As we stand before Jesus, the Spirit will bear witness that we are children of God (Romans 8:16), and Jesus will see our name written in His book of life (Revelation 20:11-15).

We will each want to stand before Jesus, claiming as Paul did when he said, “I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith: “Henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give me at that day.” (2 Tim. 4:7–8.)

I pray that we all live our lives in such a way that when we get to the end of our lives or when Jesus returns, we each get to hear Him say to us, “Well done, thou good and faithful servant: thou hast been faithful over a few things, I will make thee ruler over many things: enter thou into the joy of thy lord.” (Matt. 25:21.)

A Prayer to Help Us With Judging And Being Judgmental

We do not want something like judging others to stop us from seeing what good things God has in store for those who love Him. Let’s pray and ask God to help us not to judge others or be judgmental. Let’s ask Him to help us treat people the way He would want us to treat them, with love and grace.

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Understanding What Christ-Like Love Really Means

Posted by Krystal Simpson Live Joyfully, Christian Living 2 Comments

Growing up, I heard sayings such as, “You can catch more flies with honey.” I guess people may not say things like this as often these days, but I prayed and asked God to help me know what to write in today’s blog. He impressed upon me to write about love. Love is essential to the Christian walk. As believers, we must remember that our expressions of love will help lead others to God. How we love should line up with Christ’s teachings in the Bible. If we possess a sweet, genuine love from God, it will attract and not deter, but to do that, we must fully understand what it means to have a Christ-like love.

As we learn what the Bible says and apply it to our lives, it is easy for Christians to forget that He loved each of us first, even while we were sinners and a mess. Many well-meaning Christians who are zealous for Christ can fall into the enemy’s trap and forget that it is not our job to judge or condemn others but to love them. As divided as our world can be, we must remember that God’s Word calls us to love.

Love is mentioned so many times in the scriptures. The Bible specifically talks about loving God, mother, brother, neighbor, and enemies. Let’s carefully examine what the Bible says about who we should love and then pray to ask God to show us how to love as He would have us.

Christ-Like Love For God

Scripture states that if we love the Lord, we will love others. The Bible says that anyone who does not love does not know God because God is love (1 John 4:8). As we look at each verse that talks about love, it is clear that love is not just a feeling or a word but requires committed actions. God tells us not to love in word or talk but in deed and truth (1 John 3:18). We are instructed to love the Lord God with all our hearts and souls and with all our might (Deuteronomy 6:5).

Understanding How To Love God With Christ-like Love

We know that the enemy will always fight us when we try to do the right thing, and I am convinced this is why the Bible tells us to love God with all of our might. The single most crucial action that reveals whether we truly love God is when we choose to keep His commandments (John 14:15), and He has commanded us to love others as He has loved us.

Christ-Like Love For Your Neighbor

The Bible tells us to love our neighbors as ourselves (Galatians 5:14). When we read this statement, it is easy to quickly check it off the list and assume we already love our neighbors. The problem is that we may not understand God’s definition of neighbor. It is easy to love a neighbor when we define them as those who live close by or in our small neighborhood, but Jesus clarified the word neighbor when asked, “Who is my neighbor? To respond to the question, Jesus told a parable of the good Samaritan.

The parable explains that a man went down from Jerusalem to Jericho and fell among robbers, who stripped him, beat him, and departed, leaving him half dead. A priest went down that same road, saw the man, and instead of helping, he passed by on the other side. A Levite also came to the place and saw him but passed by on the other side.

Next, a Samaritan came to where the man was, and when he saw him, he had compassion. He went to him and bound up his wounds, pouring on oil and wine. Then he set him on his animal, brought him to an inn, and cared for him. And the next day, he paid the innkeeper, saying, “Take care of him, and whatever more you spend, I will repay you when I come back.” After telling the parable, Jesus asked, “Which of these three, do you think, proved to be a neighbor to the man who fell among the robbers?” The answer was “The one who showed him mercy.”

Love Your Neighbor -Understanding What A Christ Love Really Means

From this parable, we learn that a neighbor is whomever you come in contact with throughout your day. A neighbor is someone with whom you can share God’s love. Neighbors may not be your race or gender or have the same religious beliefs, but if we love as God commands, we will not love based on prejudices and biases. As Christians who love God, we should all be like the good Samaritan and never overlook someone who needs help. We should be looking for people God may place along our path. We must never be so busy that we pass by on the other side.

Christ-Like Love For Your Mother and Brother

When we think of loving our mother and brother, we think of our family members, but Jesus helps us understand that his definition of family includes all who love God. According to Matthew 12:46-50, While Jesus was still speaking to the people, his mother and brothers stood outside, asking to talk to him. Jesus replied to the man who told him, “Who is my mother, and who are my brothers?” and, stretching out his hand toward his disciples, said, “Here are my mother and my brothers! For whoever does the will of my Father in heaven is my brother, sister, and mother.”

Jesus gives a whole new meaning to the family. Many times at church, we call each other brother and sister and consider each other our church family. I believe Jesus would challenge us to love the people in our household, the people in our church pews, and the Christians who attend the church down the road or across the world.

Understanding What A Christ Like Love Means for Mother and Brother

The Bible states that we cannot love God and hate our brother (1 John 4:20). It may take work to love, but this commandment we have from him: whoever loves God must also love his brother (1 John 4:21). In 1 Peter 4:8, we are told to keep loving each other earnestly since love covers a multitude of sins. There are times when we will be hurt by those close to us. There will be times when we must choose to show love. Those choices honor God and show that we are willing to obey His command.

Loving each other will take humility, gentleness, and patience, but we must bear with one another in love (Ephesians 4:2). No matter what, settling arguments and bad feelings is crucial. Sometimes, that is easiest to do when we remember that no one is perfect and we have all sinned and fallen short of the glory of God (Romans 3:23). We have to choose to offer forgiveness to others because God gave it to us.

Christ-Like Love For Your Enemy

We understand that we are to love others, but what does the Bible say about loving our enemies? According to the Scriptures, enemies are those who persecute us or hate us. When others try to hurt us, it is natural to want to get angry and get revenge. It is a supernatural ability that only God can give us to help us love our enemies. Jesus teaches that we are to love and pray for those who persecute us (Matthew 5:44) and those who hate us (Luke 6:27). We are to bless them and not curse them (Romans 12:14).

The Bible clearly states that the world will hate us as it hated Christ (John 15:18-19), but we are not to act like those in the world. We are to represent God’s love and pray for others. Christ showed us this by example as He prayed for us and asked for our forgiveness while dying on the cross.

Understanding Love Your Enemy to Love like Christ

A person who is not a child of God cannot live a life of love because love is from God. Those who love have been born of God and know God (1 John 4:7). We must remember that we were not always children of God either. We must be love to others so that they can see the light of God’s love, and we must remember that we love because he first loved us (1 John 4:19). God wants all to come to repentance and experience salvation, and it is our job to help shine a light into a dark world.

Let’s Pray and Ask God To Help Us Have Christ-Like Love

To love how God wants us to will require patience and surrendering wholeheartedly to God’s will. We will need to learn to look at every situation through the eyes of faith and love, which will be contrary to our knee-jerk reactions. To love as God would want us to, we must pray and ask Him to help us. Let’s pray and ask God to help us love everyone with a Christ-like love today.

A Prayer to Know How to Love Like Christ

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What Does It Really Mean To Serve God?

Posted by Krystal Simpson Live Joyfully, Christian Living 10 Comments

As I prayed about the new year, I felt God wanted me to understand better what serving means. When we think about serving as Christians, it’s usually associated with tasks done within the church, such as preaching, singing, or cleaning. We often tend to picture people who carry out various roles within the church, like the Pastor, the musicians, the greeters/ushers, or the janitorial staff, but is that what serving God really means? What does it mean to serve God, and are we doing it?

When pondering the idea of serving God, I realized that God is trying to teach me that what He means is much more profound and extensive than I typically associate with the term. Serving God is not limited to tasks performed in church, for God, or on particular days; it encompasses every aspect of our lives.

Defining serving God in a way equivalent to what He means is crucial. God loves us so much and wants us to understand Him and His ways. He longs to take each of us into a deeper relationship with him, but that requires detaching from our old ways of thinking and learning to see everything from His unique perspective.

In serving, I believe God is challenging me to get out of my comfort zone, and I think He is challenging the whole Christian body to rise out of self and into service. Let’s look closer at what this means.

To Serve God Means To Follow Jesus

As we live each day, we have new opportunities to choose whether we are willing to honor God and live like Jesus or not. The Bible is a clear guide for Christians who aspire to follow Jesus. Our responsibilities are twofold: to love God and to love others, which means we should serve God and others.

The Bible encourages us to choose whom we will serve (Joshua 24:15). If we try to imitate the lifestyle of Jesus, we will be compassionate towards others and help them in their needs. Ultimately, it is up to us to decide how we wish to live our lives. We can live a life driven by our selfish desires, such as pride, greed, and self-indulgence. On the other hand, we can choose to live as Jesus did by leading a life that glorifies God in all possible ways.

Following Jesus Leads Us To Serve Others

As we contemplate the life of Jesus, we understand that He maintained a constant connection with the Father through prayer. He led a life of purpose, serving as an example to all of us. Jesus served the Father and others by bringing salvation to all humanity through His death. During His lifetime, Jesus healed the sick, fed the hungry, instilled hope in the hopeless, redeemed societal outcasts, and taught anyone willing to learn.

The son of man came not to be served, but to serve scripture

Christians have specific instructions on how we should live and serve others. As we try to follow the example of Jesus, we must also learn to pray and act. Each one of us should aim to bless others with our lives. We should be a blessing to our families, coworkers, and the random strangers who cross our paths. Everything we have is considered a gift that we should willingly use to help others.

The Bible teaches us to serve God by serving others in these three specific areas. It does not limit us to serving only inside the church or on one particular day.

our actions
our resources
our love

Serve God with our Actions

In the Bible, Jesus washed the disciple’s feet, demonstrating that we should serve others with our actions and serve rather than be served. Philippians 2:4 states, “Let each of you look not only to his interests but also to the interest of others.” We should bear one another’s burdens (Galatians 6:2). According to the Bible, we should serve one another (Galatians 5:13) because when we help others, we serve God.

And the King will answer them, ‘Truly, I say to you, as you did it to one of the least of these my brothers, you did it to me.’‘
Matthew 25:40 ESV

We should not grow weary or tired in doing good (Galatians 6:9). Whatever we do, we work heartily as for the Lord and not for men (Colossians 3:23). We should learn to do good, seek justice, correct opposition, bring justice to the fatherless, and plead the widow’s case (Isaiah 1:17).

Serve God With Our Resources

As believers, we serve God with all the resources He has blessed us with, including our finances, talents, time, and energy. It is essential to use these resources for good, as Hebrews 13:16 states, “Do not neglect to do good and to share what you have, for such sacrifices are pleasing to God.” The Bible also teaches us that when we serve God with our resources, He will bless us. Luke 6:38 says, “Give, and it will be given to you.” Therefore, we must give generously and serve God with all our hearts, knowing He commands us to do so and will reward our obedience.

God is very concerned with the poor and those in need, and he commands us to open our hands wide to our brother, the needy, and the poor in our land (Deuteronomy 15:11). The book of Proverbs teaches that “whoever is generous to the poor lends to the Lord, and he will repay him for his deed (Proverbs 19:17 ESV)”. God promises that “whoever brings blessing will be enriched (Proverbs 11:25).” However, the Bible warns that those who hide their eyes and do not help the poor will be cursed (Proverbs 28:27, ESV).

Serve God With Love For Others

Christians must love one another as God has loved us (John 15:12). Our love for each other is the evidence that we are true followers of Christ. Although it’s not always easy to love people, especially those who have let us down or hurt us, we must still obey this commandment. 1 John 4:12 says, “No one has ever seen God; but if we love one another, God lives in us, and his love is made complete in us.”

Like Jesus did, loving others involves caring for their well-being and needs. According to the NIV version of 1 John 3:17, if someone possesses material possessions but fails to show compassion towards a brother or sister in need, then the love of God cannot dwell in that person. We love God because He loved us first (1 John 4:19). How we live and serve others is akin to shining the light of God before others. The Bible encourages us to let others witness our good deeds and give glory to the Father in Heaven (Matthew 5:16). In response to everything God has blessed us with as His children, we should share freely.

Serve God Even At Church

Serving God is not just something to do at church, for God, or on a specific day. It encompasses everything we do, including our actions at church. Society often emphasizes self-reliance and encourages individuals to climb the ladder of success independently. We are encouraged to pull ourselves up by the bootstraps, be independent, and work our way up the ladder. God’s Kingdom teaches that we serve our way up by working and praying together.

There is strength in numbers, and the power of collective effort is undeniable. We should always be willing to serve and lend a helping hand to those in need, even within our church community. There might be someone in the church who could benefit from our skills and resources, and we should strive to use them for the greater good.

As children of God, we should become active church members in a local church. We should be willing to serve our fellow Christians as if they were our brothers and sisters. Even though the church family, like any other extended family, is made up of imperfect people, our aim should be to serve our Heavenly Father. When we serve God, we must not focus solely on what we can receive, or we will overlook the blessings from giving to God and others.

We all have a way to serve if we are willing. Each one of us has something to give to the church community. Perhaps God has blessed us with the ability to sing in tune, to keep the rhythm, to teach children, or to encourage others with our story or testimony. Whatever the case, we should be willing to serve. We must be ready to utilize our talents to benefit the Christian body.

The enemy suggests that we don’t need to attend a physical church, but we should look for a church community where we can serve. Although we can listen to sermons online, on TV or radio, read our Bible, and pray at home, we must ask ourselves if that counts as serving.

A Prayer To Know How To Serve God

Serving God requires us to follow Jesus, who teaches us to pray and serve others. To live according to God’s principles, we must seek his help because his ways differ from those of the world. While the world encourages us to be selfish and greedy, God teaches us to be generous and serve others. We’re all imperfect; even if we make mistakes, God can see our hearts. If we fall short, we must acknowledge our mistakes, ask for forgiveness and help, and try again. Let’s pray together and ask God to help us serve Him in His way.

Learn to Live Joyfully, Without Stress, Fear, and Regret by Learning to Trust God with all the Details!

Table of Contents

Authentic Christians Resist Pride and Arrogance

Authentic Christians Show Love and Are Not Judgmental

Authentic Christians Understand Forgiveness

What Jesus Said About Authenticity and Hypocrisy

Jesus Addressed Praying to Be Seen and Heard by Others

A Prayer to Be An Authentic Christian

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Additional Inspirational Resources

Table of Contents

Understanding the Waiting Season

What to Do in a Waiting Season

How God Works Within Us During a Waiting Season

Let’s Pray For Help in Our Waiting Season

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Table of Contents

Deal with Negative People and Harsh Words by Praying First

Pray a Blessing on the Negative Person

Pray for Wisdom and Direction

Guard Your Heart While You Trust God to Deal With Negative People

A Prayer to Deal With Negative People and Harsh Words

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Additional Inspirational Resources

Pride: A Subtle Sin

Table of Contents

Pride Keeps Us From Seeking God

Pride Distorts Our View of Ourselves

Pride Can Lead to Boasting and Seeking Approval

Pride Causes Strife and Conflict With Others

Pride Attempts to Rob God of His Glory and Blocks Our Blessings

Combat Pride By Learning To Remain Humble

Identify Pride by Assessing Our Prayer Life

Let’s Pray to Combat Pride and Learn to Live With Humility

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Table of Contents

Seeking Acceptance From Others Steals Our Joy By Causing Anxiety

Seeking Acceptance From Others Can Lead to Feelings of Depression

Seeking Acceptance From Others Can Lead to Sin

Avoid Seeking Acceptance From Others, Choose Joy Instead

A Prayer to Stop Seeking Acceptance From Others

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Table of Contents

Let Your Light Shine Like a Lighthouse

A Lighthouse Shines and Gives Hope

A Lighthouse is Trusted to Stand Alone

A Lighthouse is Well Constructed and Built to Last

A Prayer For Peace And Brotherly Love

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Table of Contents

How to Walk With God

Walk With God By Spending Time in Prayer

Walk With God By Reading the Bible

Walk With God By Obeying

Walk With God By Trusting and Surrendering

The Benefits of Walking With God

A Prayer To Improve Our Walk With God

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Table of Contents

What Does Judging Others Mean?

Judging Others Leads To Becoming Judgemental

What Should We Do To Stop Judging

Jesus Shows Us How To Offer Restoration Instead Of Judging

Judgment Will Come

A Prayer to Help Us With Judging And Being Judgmental

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Table of Contents

Christ-Like Love For God

Christ-Like Love For Your Neighbor

Christ-Like Love For Your Mother and Brother

Christ-Like Love For Your Enemy

Let’s Pray and Ask God To Help Us Have Christ-Like Love

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Table of Contents

To Serve God Means To Follow Jesus

Following Jesus Leads Us To Serve Others

Serve God with our Actions

Serve God With Our Resources

Serve God With Love For Others

Serve God Even At Church