https://calvarygulfcoast.com Thu, 21 May 2026 06:00:00 +0000 Thu, 21 May 2026 06:00:00 +0000 hourly 1 3600 SnapPages.com https://calvarygulfcoast.com/blog/2026/06/26/jesus-came-for-sinners Fri, 26 Jun 2026 06:00:00 +0000 https://calvarygulfcoast.com/blog/2026/06/26/jesus-came-for-sinners

1 Timothy 1:15 This is a faithful saying, and worthy of all acceptation, that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners; of whom I am chief.

If this is true, and it is, why do so many  ot acknowledge their sin?  Why do so many put on a facade to appear there has never been skeletons in their closets?  If people ever found out the real me, what would they think?  There is so much wrong with this thinking.  First off, when we come to the light, we are freed of all the darkness even when it gets exposed.  It no longer hangs over us.  Who the Son sets free is free indeed.  Secondly, to seek to cover our sketchy past is only prolonging the caspiracy.  Either your a sinner or you ain't!  God knows it and you know it!  He sent His only Son for you.  My sin led Jesus to die on that horrific cross!  There are no promises for "perfect" people but the flames of hell.  I hope this is clear enough.  Jesus came for this wretched sinner and Im forever grateful for Him.

]]> https://calvarygulfcoast.com/blog/2026/06/26/jesus-came-for-sinners#comments 0 https://calvarygulfcoast.com/blog/2026/06/25/yes-waiting-is-a-command Thu, 25 Jun 2026 06:00:00 +0000 https://calvarygulfcoast.com/blog/2026/06/25/yes-waiting-is-a-command

Luke 24:49 Behold, I send the Promise of My Father upon you; but tarry in the city of Jerusalem until you are endued with power from on high.”

After Jesus' resurrection, He gives His disciples some important instruction.  What was coming was the empowerment of the Holy Spirit but first they must wait in Jerusalem as He said.  Why is this waiting so difficult?  Why are we so prone to action when we should wait yet wait when we should move?  This has been a great frustration of mine personally even after numerous experiences of getting it right.  It is easy to skip steps and expect the promise.  Every word of God is important.  I am learning that waiting is a big deal to the LORD and a much needed discipline to settle me in a chaotic world.  
I have been training Emma, my dog, to walk calmly on a leash, however it hasn't been going that smoothly.  The key for her is to learn to wait until I give that command to go out that door.  It was chaotic in the beginning and never turned out well but has improved a lot.  The biggest reason for her improvement I believe is now she looks at me for her release.  I can tell how the rest of the walk will be by that first door opening moment.  
We don't have to live in such a way that knee jerk reactions are a way of life.  Once He releases us, going is what we should do but until then, wait and listen for God to speak.  whether you have a turbulent walk or a calm one will depend on you waiting upon God.

]]> https://calvarygulfcoast.com/blog/2026/06/25/yes-waiting-is-a-command#comments 1 https://calvarygulfcoast.com/blog/2026/06/24/god-gives-joy-to-the-broken Wed, 24 Jun 2026 06:00:00 +0000 https://calvarygulfcoast.com/blog/2026/06/24/god-gives-joy-to-the-broken

Psalm 34:18 The LORD is near to those who have a broken heart, and saves such as have a contrite spirit. 

My, has this been the greatest comfort I've ever known.  For countless generation, this verse of Gods word has been given to comfort millions.  It's more than a verse read but a personal word from our compassionate Savior.  It is amazing how this broken heart seems to never heal quickly.  However, during this long process, the LORD is patient with us and continues to mend this heart and one day, it will be completely healed!  I have found, even the most well intended people have their limits when it comes to a broken hearted individual.  Why, even most companies only give you three days bereavement, as if that ever is enough time, at the passing of a loved one.  Who has the lasting staying power over years of brokenness?  Well, that is only One I know, our LORD Jesus Christ.  Are you still broken?  Jesus is near.  Have you not gotten over whatever it is you think you should have?  Jesus is near.  Has the world given up on you or your condition?  Jesus is near.

]]> https://calvarygulfcoast.com/blog/2026/06/24/god-gives-joy-to-the-broken#comments 1 https://calvarygulfcoast.com/blog/2026/06/23/the-empowerment-of-the-spirit Tue, 23 Jun 2026 06:00:00 +0000 https://calvarygulfcoast.com/blog/2026/06/23/the-empowerment-of-the-spirit

Acts 1:8 But you shall receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you; and you shall be witnesses to Me in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth.” 

Jesus was empowered by the Holy Spirit.  Jesus promised, before He was murdered, He would go to the Father and He would give the Holy Spirit to the believer.  At this point after His resurrection, it was now time for that to happen.  However, the believer must want the Holy Spirit.  The word "receive" is a key word as regarding the Spirit.  You must freely receive Him and when you do, you will have this power He spoke about.  Not power to be god but to live as God, witness for God, carry on the torch of Christs message to the world.  There is only one way I know in which to properly witness for Jesus Christ and that is to be filled with His Spirit.  Have you received the baptism of the Holy Spirit?  Isnt it amazing how now your desires have changed to be Jesus' desires?  

]]> https://calvarygulfcoast.com/blog/2026/06/23/the-empowerment-of-the-spirit#comments 0 https://calvarygulfcoast.com/blog/2026/06/22/all-we-need-to-go-for-jesus Mon, 22 Jun 2026 06:00:00 +0000 https://calvarygulfcoast.com/blog/2026/06/22/all-we-need-to-go-for-jesus

Luke 9:1 Then He called His twelve disciples together and gave them power and authority over all demons, and to cure diseases. 

This is the most important aspect to the great Commission by Jesus for us.  Jesus gave them.  He had to impart something to them.  There was something of greatest priority first Jesus knew His disciples needed before they went.  He gave them Power & Authority!  Power of the Spirit and Authority in His name.  
The same two things are needed today for His disciples to carry the kingdom of God to this world.  What the power of the Holy Spirit had transformed 11 weak scared disciples into bold revolutionaries who would lay down their lives for the King and His kingdom.  Also, they knew they had nothing to offer but in the mighty powerful name of Jesus, they gave out generously to a needy people.  
I am totally dependent upon these two as well.  I began in the Spirit and I seek to end in the Spirit.  I want only Jesus to resonate with folks I come in contact with while declaring the gospel.  This is the recipe for a disciple of Christ.

]]> https://calvarygulfcoast.com/blog/2026/06/22/all-we-need-to-go-for-jesus#comments 0 https://calvarygulfcoast.com/blog/2026/06/19/what-should-i-believe Fri, 19 Jun 2026 06:00:00 +0000 https://calvarygulfcoast.com/blog/2026/06/19/what-should-i-believe

Luke 8:49 While He was still speaking, someone came from the ruler of the synagogue’s house, saying to him, “Your daughter is dead. Do not trouble the Teacher. 

You may have never heard these exact words but we have all heard words as these!  Whatever hope you held onto is now dashed to pieces.  Or is it?  The things you have fought and come to believe God is powerful over only to have some discouraging words given by unbelievers!  You almost need to expect these words to come. They are spearheaded by the enemy against Gods word, power, abilities.  They are never grounded in trust and in direct conflict with Gods will.  The path of righteousness is never promised to be easy and void of trials but the promise is sure, Jesus overcame the world and so will you in Him.  What a lie by satan to tell Jairus his daughter was dead!  Who told them that?  What spiritual senses that God gave could that be attributed too?  And dont bother Teacher!  Again, the Spirit would never say that.  If ministry is a bother, you have the wrong understanding of ministry. At what point is God limited by circumstances?  Death?  Jesus is the Resurrection and the Life. 
What I and all must never do is listen to these faithless words that contradict Gods word.  Everything before us is either an obstacle or opportunity.  What is it that God cant do?  With God, nothing is impossible.  In Christ, I can do all things.

]]> https://calvarygulfcoast.com/blog/2026/06/19/what-should-i-believe#comments 0 https://calvarygulfcoast.com/blog/2026/06/18/religion-vs-relationship-worlds-apart Thu, 18 Jun 2026 06:00:00 +0000 https://calvarygulfcoast.com/blog/2026/06/18/religion-vs-relationship-worlds-apart

Luke 8:47 And when the woman saw that she was not hid, she came trembling, and falling down before him, she declared unto him before all the people for what cause she had touched him, and how she was healed immediately. 

What a contrast to a religious mindset vs a living relationship with God.  Now, I do not intend to accuse her of being only religious but what religion has ingrained in humanity!
How does a daughter of the Most High God get to the point she is afraid, fearful, and timid over a miracle?  The Spirit didnt teach her this!  
Men have no power so in result they must instill fear to keep others in line.  This is sanctioned by God for Governmental oversight but not for personal devotion to God.  That natural fear you have once you see blue lights behind you, even when you have done nothing wrong.  The child of God unfortunately takes this same fear and exhibits it before the LORD.  
To anyone who has ever taken in an abused animal, or even worse, an abused child, these same characteristics are evident.  I would go to love and pet my dog but she would cower in fear, most likely due to the previous abusive idiot!  She learned that a hand would hurt not help her.  I see this idea in this amazing woman here!
Some Christians are fearful, even ashamed at the gifts God gives them while in the presence of other Christians.  They have been abused one too many times in the past.
I learned there is no earthly relationship can can compare to Christs with us.  Even the best intended men of God have capacity to hurt others even not intently.  The words I use as a pastor can heal some and hurt others if not careful.  I have had my fair share of both.  I have felt the belittling by other Christians over my acquired gift of tongues for example.  Gods gift to me to worship and speak to my Him in a truly pure way.  Almost to the point of not using it at all!  I can relate to the woman her, as we all can, the fear and wonder of what did I just do wrong and waiting for the condemnation.  But then, as she experienced, Jesus speaks in love and grace fortifying the faith He gave me to be at this very place in my life!  Now this is courage!

]]> https://calvarygulfcoast.com/blog/2026/06/18/religion-vs-relationship-worlds-apart#comments 1 https://calvarygulfcoast.com/blog/2026/06/17/lost-in-the-crowds Wed, 17 Jun 2026 06:00:00 +0000 https://calvarygulfcoast.com/blog/2026/06/17/lost-in-the-crowds

Luke 8:42 But as He (Jesus) went, the multitudes thronged Him. 

Sounds amazing right?  Jesus being so famous and everyone is pressing in to Him.  Yet the crowds are a sad story when it comes to actually pressing into Jesus and receiving a miracle.  Jesus is just alright with almost everyone until He inconveniences them by one of His plethora of sayings.  You must partake of Me or you have no life in you, or blessed are you who do what I say, not just hear. 
The multitudes suffocate the life out of anything good but a true seeker of Jesus Christ grabs hold of Jesus' words and wont let go.  They experience the living power of God in ways the LORD desires them too.  In between two of these such wonderful examples of desperate faith is a sad empty group called a multitude.  They don't follow Jesus.  They don't personally experience Him, as far as I have read.  They just use their natural senses and are lead by their unregenerate hearts to hear only.  Yet, in the amazing power of the Spirit, He will harvest even many of these as they leave their empty hopeless lives, pickup their cross, and follow Jesus.  Make no mistake about it, I don't want to bank on the idea that being in the crowd will at all advance me to personal interaction with my LORD.  

]]> https://calvarygulfcoast.com/blog/2026/06/17/lost-in-the-crowds#comments 1 https://calvarygulfcoast.com/blog/2026/06/16/full-background-of-jairus Tue, 16 Jun 2026 06:00:00 +0000 https://calvarygulfcoast.com/blog/2026/06/16/full-background-of-jairus

Luke 8:41 And behold, there came a man named Jairus, and he was a ruler of the synagogue. And he fell down at Jesus’ feet and begged Him to come to his house, 42 for he had an only daughter about twelve years of age, and she was dying. 

It's so easy to overlook the power impact the Spirit has upon us!  It's easy to overlook who we used to be before Jesus.  Almost unrecognizable and I wonder, would we be welcomed in our churches now?  The human mind can only process what it see's before it but God see's the person from start to finish!
Jairus was desperate here and came to Jesus begging at His feet!  This would be a big deal but given Jairus background, it's even greater!  Going back just one chapter, Jesus healed the Centurions servant girl, he was the finance of the synagogue where Jarius ruled from.  Jesus had miraculously healed a man's paralysis in the synagogue on the sabbath.  Jesus was not welcomed back!  Jarius no doubt was part of this rejection of Jesus!  How much influence did the centurion have over Jarius?  Well, when his only daughter was dying, that testimony of the centurion was pounding heavily in his mind.  "I know Jesus is wrong but what if He is who He says and claims to be?" "I know this may cost me my cush job by the religious leaders, but what do I have to lose for my daughter?"  All these points and more flooded Jairus' mind.  His faith, not the best example, but faith no less, is more in line of most Christians experience of faith.  Come and allow Jesus to break you, to humble you, and then watch Him build you up into the person of God He created you to be.  We are all Jairus!  Desperate for Jesus!

]]> https://calvarygulfcoast.com/blog/2026/06/16/full-background-of-jairus#comments 0 https://calvarygulfcoast.com/blog/2026/06/15/why-would-it-be-wrong-to-wait-upon-jesus Mon, 15 Jun 2026 06:00:00 +0000 https://calvarygulfcoast.com/blog/2026/06/15/why-would-it-be-wrong-to-wait-upon-jesus

Luke 8:40 So it was, when Jesus returned, that the multitude welcomed Him, for they were all waiting for Him.

Jesus had just returned from a very eventful evening east of the Sea of Galilee.  There is a big crowd gathered to meet Jesus to the point of suffocation!  Their application of all they learned of Jesus in His hometown is to wait for Him.  This is good right?  Well, if Jesus told you to wait, absolutely, but even in the waiting, we occupy our time doing His will on earth as it is in heaven.  Time is running out!  The time isn't to wait but to act upon and follow Jesus.  When we are hearers only, we miss so much experience our LORD wants to reveal to us.  We will never fulfill the Great Commission by standing around.  The simple word GO involves action.  I have decided long ago, I refuse to be a part of a crowd but want to follow the LORD who has power to change me.  I love experiencing Him and I can only do this if I follow His leading, not waiting around for Him to return.

]]> https://calvarygulfcoast.com/blog/2026/06/15/why-would-it-be-wrong-to-wait-upon-jesus#comments 0 https://calvarygulfcoast.com/blog/2026/06/11/what-soil-of-heart-are-you-toward-gods-word Thu, 11 Jun 2026 06:00:00 +0000 https://calvarygulfcoast.com/blog/2026/06/11/what-soil-of-heart-are-you-toward-gods-word

Luke 8:11 “Now the parable is this: The seed is the word of God. 12 Those by the wayside are the ones who hear; then the devil comes and takes away the word out of their hearts, lest they should believe and be saved. 13 But the ones on the rock are those who, when they hear, receive the word with joy; and these have no root, who believe for a while and in time of temptation fall away. 14 Now the ones that fell among thorns are those who, when they have heard, go out and are choked with cares, riches, and pleasures of life, and bring no fruit to maturity. 15 But the ones that fell on the good ground are those who, having heard the word with a noble and good heart, keep it and bear fruit with patience.

This is the parable of all parables by Jesus' assessment.  I believe this passage to be the most important one ever given by Jesus to every person living.  There are many important passages that speak to everyone, such as this one does.  Whether you believe or not, Jesus speaks about your heart toward His word.  What I am saying is, if you read this and cant figure out which soil of heart you are right now toward Gods word, your probably comatose.  The truth can sting but we need the truth.  To many "Christians" live lives without a humble heart toward Gods word!  Religions live rejecting Gods word! I would be deceiving myself if I thought my heart was always humble to accept Gods word every time.  These words of Christ are life to me and help get me back to where I need to be as a follower of Christ.  Talk is cheap and action is what is needed.  By Gods grace, if we find our heart choking out Gods word by the cares of this life, we can alter our course.  We cant change our hearts, that's Gods job, but we are to change our minds toward Gods word.

]]> https://calvarygulfcoast.com/blog/2026/06/11/what-soil-of-heart-are-you-toward-gods-word#comments 0 https://calvarygulfcoast.com/blog/2026/06/10/much-more-to-learn-of-god Wed, 10 Jun 2026 09:29:24 +0000 https://calvarygulfcoast.com/blog/2026/06/10/much-more-to-learn-of-god

Luke 8:25 But He said to them, “Where is your faith?” And they were afraid, and marveled, saying to one another, “Who can this be? For He commands even the winds and water, and they obey Him!”

After this amazing display of Gods power over the deadly storm, the disciples reaction is very interesting.  They are afraid!  Now, in my walk with Jesus, this would not be the reaction.  Yet earlier on, before all of the many storms I've been through only to experience Him calming them, I was right were they were.  Its easy to forget our rebuke and short falls about our understanding of God but there is a great wealth of growth there if you can sit back and see it.  
at this point, its fair to say that these disciples of Jesus didn't know He was able to do such and that they are in the presence of someone great.  They would have never known God was powerful over their storms unless they went through the storm.  
Is there anything about God you are yet to experience?  I encourage you to stay close to Him and allow Him to teach you.

]]> https://calvarygulfcoast.com/blog/2026/06/10/much-more-to-learn-of-god#comments 0 https://calvarygulfcoast.com/blog/2026/06/09/why-do-we-blame-god Tue, 09 Jun 2026 06:00:00 +0000 https://calvarygulfcoast.com/blog/2026/06/09/why-do-we-blame-god

Luke 8: 23 But as they sailed He fell asleep. And a windstorm came down on the lake, and they were filling with water, and were in jeopardy. 24 And they came to Him and awoke Him, saying, “Master, Master, we are perishing!” 

Thank You LORD for being so patient with me!  This passage really sums up how often I feel through the many trials this life throws at me.  I can relate to the disciples here in that the LORD gets the blame for allowing hardship in my life.  I would like to think I handle trials in faith but some I do not.  To look at the natural scene before me but not see Jesus on the throne, or worse yet, see Jesus sleeping peacefully while my life is in danger.  I can here the resentment in their tone as they yell out Master dont you care we are dying only because I can see myself doing the same. 
Fact is, my LORD does care.  These storms that will come does not change the fact of His love for me and power over my powerless situation.  He already gave me His unfailing word as He did His disciples.  What else do I need? 
I choose not to blame my Savior for this sinful worlds chaos.  Jesus is the solution to the problem.  The only hope I have is found in Christ alone.  If I perish through a trial, its because He has allowed me to and wants me home with Him.  Thank you LORD for being so patient even after You gave me Your word.
How do you measure up with your brothers here?   

]]> https://calvarygulfcoast.com/blog/2026/06/09/why-do-we-blame-god#comments 5 https://calvarygulfcoast.com/blog/2026/06/08/how-does-your-faith-measure-up Mon, 08 Jun 2026 06:00:00 +0000 https://calvarygulfcoast.com/blog/2026/06/08/how-does-your-faith-measure-up

Luke 8:25 But He said to them, “Where is your faith?”And they were afraid, and marveled, saying to one another, “Who can this be? For He commands even the winds and water, and they obey Him!”


This massive storm threatened to kill all in the boat.  This was a terrifying experience naturally.  However, we as Christians are not of this world nor are we regulated by its chaos!  We have a higher standard now.  The living God has made us alive and we are now temples of the Holy Spirit.  As born again believers, we go by our spiritual senses, not our natural ones that have failed us every time in the past.  How can Jesus ask them "where is your Faith?"  There is a logical explanation to this as we tend to overlook the beginning statement Jesus made before the boat and before the storm.  He said, "Let us go to the other side."  His word is that simple and that powerful.  If He says we are going over, we will never go under!  What has Jesus promised you?  What has His word told you?  His word is always faithful and true.  

]]> https://calvarygulfcoast.com/blog/2026/06/08/how-does-your-faith-measure-up#comments 0 https://calvarygulfcoast.com/blog/2026/06/04/real-or-shadow Thu, 04 Jun 2026 12:18:34 +0000 https://calvarygulfcoast.com/blog/2026/06/04/real-or-shadow

Colossians 2:16 Let no man therefore judge you in meat, or in drink, or in respect of an holy day, or of the new moon, or of the sabbath days: 17 Which are a shadow of things to come; but the body is of Christ. 

These are still the same things religious self righteous people will judge you by.  Why?  Because they really dont have a lot going for them in their hearts toward God.  There is no change in their lives.  All they have to invest in is outward optics!  What appears holy or righteous must validate them.  None of these things could or will make one righteous.  They are actually all shadows of Who is to come, Jesus!  They are tutors to open up thought and dialogue about what they actually mean.  They are like parables that Jesus gave.  An earthly well known example that are to inspire questions about what they mean?  And its in those questions, you will find the answer in Christ.  Its hard to focus a conversation with one of these self righteous fools when all they want to talk about is how you took the mark of the beast because you worship on Sunday instead of Saturday!  Its easy to get weighted down by the legalistic arguments made and miss the substance of Christ.  I have made the choice to not argue these things anymore but to put the focus on Christ at all costs, with all my resources, with all my intellect, and most of all, in all humility walking after the Spirit of God in love & truth.

]]> https://calvarygulfcoast.com/blog/2026/06/04/real-or-shadow#comments 0 https://calvarygulfcoast.com/blog/2026/06/03/proof-we-know-god Wed, 03 Jun 2026 06:00:00 +0000 https://calvarygulfcoast.com/blog/2026/06/03/proof-we-know-god

1 John 2:3 Now by this we know that we know Him, if we keep His commandments.

There is only one way to walk in Christs steps that I know personally.  This is to allow the Spirits leading in our lives.  The Spirit will lead us to follow Jesus.  We will naturally do His commands.  He places His desires in our hearts.  I find it amazing how there are so many religions that command man to do this or tell them they must do that, yet it yields zero real godly fruit.  They deny one bad thing only to accept many others in its place.  
I know the LORD is powerful in my life because I actually can do what He commands.  It sounds strange but to see a Christian actually live like Christ is a rarity in our day.  But its this rarity, that can be our reality when we truly know Him. 
What is the proof you know God?  John tells us simply, we do His commandments.  We love as He loves.

]]> https://calvarygulfcoast.com/blog/2026/06/03/proof-we-know-god#comments 1 https://calvarygulfcoast.com/blog/2026/06/02/god-is-light Tue, 02 Jun 2026 06:00:00 +0000 https://calvarygulfcoast.com/blog/2026/06/02/god-is-light

1 John 1:5 This is the message which we have heard from Him and declare to you, that God is light and in Him is no darkness at all.

Here is one of a few simple statements about God.  God is light.  This is true in every bit of the word.  Light illuminates.  Light defines a lit up path.  Light keeps us from stumbling.  Light reveals and cast out darkness.  Darkness cannot stick around where light shows up. 
There is a lot we don't know about God, yet these simple statements declare who He is.  God wants you to know Him.  He desires you to walk without stumbling.  Darkness doesn't stand a chance when the Light of God shines.  Gods word is light and and we hear it and do it, we see His radiance of light with no shade of darkness.  Just know this, God reveals who He is.  God doesn't work behind closed doors.  He works openly and freely and treads all over the enemies camp!  His work is to be celebrated every time.  

]]> https://calvarygulfcoast.com/blog/2026/06/02/god-is-light#comments 0 https://calvarygulfcoast.com/blog/2026/06/01/if-not-for-the-lord Mon, 01 Jun 2026 06:00:00 +0000 https://calvarygulfcoast.com/blog/2026/06/01/if-not-for-the-lord

1 Timothy 1:12 And I thank Christ Jesus our Lord who has enabled me, because He counted me faithful, putting me into the ministry,

From high school, counselors have been helping kids find out what direction in life they are going to take.  College, trade school, some other career field?  There is one field men cant call you into, the ministry of pastor/teacher.  No, this is uniquely set for Christ to give the shepherds of His liking.  Now, I know in this world, this is not how this works currently.  Men, and now of course women, choose to enter the ministry for a variety of reasons and none of them are Spirit driven!  The call Paul speaks of was not his choosing.  For anybody to actually choose the ministry in this capacity, well they might need examined or they are doing it all for the wrong reasons.  
I wont go into the finer details about the descriptions of the ministry and the tasks one must sign up for but I can tell you, I'm NOT qualified in my eyes.  Yes I meet the check list of chapter 3 coming up, to be a pastor, the practical stuff.  As Paul here, I can relate. 
He knows the only reason he is in ministry is because God enabled him.  God counted him faithful.  God placed him in the position he was in.  I know God has done all three of those for me but I also know, I had nothing to do with it.  I sought out to be a drafter and then in hopes of being an architect.  But God!  He gave me a compassion for His people.  He gave me a love for His word.  He called me into the ministry and that began a whole new world. 
If God isn't in this, I don't want it!  If God hasn't called me, what am I doing?  If God isn't faithful, I wouldn't of made it this long.  Thank You LORD Jesus for Your great calling. 
What God calls us to do He will enable us to do them.

]]> https://calvarygulfcoast.com/blog/2026/06/01/if-not-for-the-lord#comments 0 https://calvarygulfcoast.com/blog/2026/05/29/complete-word-of-god Fri, 29 May 2026 06:00:00 +0000 https://calvarygulfcoast.com/blog/2026/05/29/complete-word-of-god

Acts 20:27 For I have not shunned to declare to you the whole counsel of God.

Paul wasn't just exaggerating on giving all of Gods word.  Lots of preachers give bits of the bible but very few can truly say they have shared all of the bible.  It is an amazing accomplishment to take Christs church through the whole bible from Genesis to Revelation.  I have done it and it took six years to do.  There is so much of the bible the church misses by topical preaching.  Most of the deep golden nuggets of Scripture is mixed in the areas often skipped over.  Paul didn't cover to give all Gods word and that's a fitting phrase.  There have been many passages I would never of covered but by the Spirits lead and expository chapter by chapter teaching disciplines.  There are no contradictions in the Bible and the best way to proceed that is to go through all of it.  This process has a great way of bringing the central theme of the message out and our bibles become a lot more understandable.  
what if a doctor learned in med school how most churches teach the small limited sections of the Bible?  I wouldn't want to have him treat me.  Neither would I these topical preachers.  But this is just my opinion and life experience talking.  The full picture of the Bible is redemption.

]]> https://calvarygulfcoast.com/blog/2026/05/29/complete-word-of-god#comments 0 https://calvarygulfcoast.com/blog/2026/05/28/jesus-is-for-all Thu, 28 May 2026 10:20:54 +0000 https://calvarygulfcoast.com/blog/2026/05/28/jesus-is-for-all

James 2:1 My brethren, do not hold the faith of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Lord of glory, with partiality. 

Holding the faith of our LORD.  What an honor.  We are representatives of Christ, not to do our own thing, but to relay His message.  In our country as a republic, we sent representatives to Washington to speak for us the people.  What a mess we have come to where they have gotten so bold to no longer speak for us but do their own agendas.  What evil this has brought on our nation.  This is also happening in churches.  Those who have been commissioned to spread Gods message instead spreading their own.  James, Jesus' half brother, now fully on board with Christ, says don't hold this faith of our LORD Jesus Christ with partiality.  Don't assume who is worthy of salvation or who will be damned.  Don't take what is so amazing and lessen it to a secular thing that always excludes the majority of people.  We must be consistent to being Jesus to everyone.  Not one single person on this planet needs my opinions.  The practical expression of this in action is the vast array of people with various backgrounds both rich and poor all being treated with love & grace.  We put value on certain people whereas God places value on everyone.
We are saved by grace through faith.

]]> https://calvarygulfcoast.com/blog/2026/05/28/jesus-is-for-all#comments 1 https://calvarygulfcoast.com/blog/2026/05/27/glory-or-humility Wed, 27 May 2026 06:00:00 +0000 https://calvarygulfcoast.com/blog/2026/05/27/glory-or-humility

James 1:9 Let the humble brother glory in his exaltation,10 but the rich in his humiliation, because as a flower of the field he will pass away.

I really didn't see this contrast before although the principle of living I've witnessed.  The humble brother with little to nothing will be overjoyed at the provision and exaltation of the Lord in his life.  He obviously doesn't glory about himself but knows he didn't achieve anything on his own.  
The brother who has everything and seems to not lack well, rejoice when not if, you are humbled knowing the same God who blessed you with plenty now will show you what He can do with your nothing.  This is a huge blessing and what the church of Laeodicia needed.  
What state are you in currently?  Rejoice because God will exalt or humble you.  Will you trust Him?  Paul said it this way in his life.  I've had abundance and I've lacked yet in whatever state I'm in I will be content.  
Its unreal to expect to not experience what Paul spoke of as a Christian.  How else will you truly know God is your provider?  
My mom, after she had me, was living on tough times financially.  My parents both just got baptized in the Holy Spirit, couldnt get a job if they paid for it in the economy at the time, with only enough biscuit mix to make one biscuit for a household of 6 people.  She planned on feeding my brother's and that would be it but she prayed! Immediately after the phone rang.  My dad's dad just had a heart attack and was summoned to come home.  How humbling to be in a place he couldn't even travel 350 miles home.  My grandmother wired them some money and they never was close to that season of life again!  This is what Christians are made of in humility and plenty!  Where are you right now?  It may change for your good.

]]> https://calvarygulfcoast.com/blog/2026/05/27/glory-or-humility#comments 0 https://calvarygulfcoast.com/blog/2026/05/26/who-or-what-do-you-run-too Tue, 26 May 2026 06:00:00 +0000 https://calvarygulfcoast.com/blog/2026/05/26/who-or-what-do-you-run-too

Psalm 25:1 To You, O LORD, I lift up my soul.

When I read this, something about it really takes hold of my heart.  David had no one other than the LORD at this point.  Often, he had little to no time to think about his next moves for his very life from king Saul.  His soul in utter fear and turmoil.  Yet this stalwart discipline to press through all the hardships life brought him enabled him to see his Hope in the LORD.  I lift up this broken hurting soul to You Jesus!  This wasn't easy for David and its never easy for you to do this but its our only refuge & hope.  God time after time miraculously saved David.  Why?  I believe because of where David ran to.  Not away from enemies but unto God.  God, I want to run to you every time Im in distress.  I want to lift up my soul to the One that matters and can truly help me.  LORD, I lift up my soul to You.  Who else is with David on this?

]]> https://calvarygulfcoast.com/blog/2026/05/26/who-or-what-do-you-run-too#comments 3 https://calvarygulfcoast.com/blog/2026/05/25/god-uses-the-insignificant-things Mon, 25 May 2026 06:00:00 +0000 https://calvarygulfcoast.com/blog/2026/05/25/god-uses-the-insignificant-things

Micah 5:2 “But you, Bethlehem Ephrathah,Though you are little among the thousands of Judah,Yet out of you shall come forth to Me the One to be Ruler in Israel, Whose goings forth are from of old, From everlasting.”

This is a promise of the coming Messiah to be born in Bethlehem, of the region of Judah some 700 years before Christ came.  Bethlehem is still small with under 35,000 residents today but at this time it was about 300 folks.  Who would ever choose Bethlehem for the King of kings.  Mens wisdom would at least say Jerusalem, the city of God.  Yet, God has a pattern of using insignificant things and makes them of greatest importance to Him.  Look at the church.  We are the foolishness of this world yet look what God has done in His bride?  I must realize who I am and who I am not.  I am not anything in of myself to be admired.  But in Christ, I am His chosen son.  I love how He can transform a broken wretched sinner into a Jesus freak who has a life desire to live for Jesus!  If you are insignificant to this world, rejoice, you are very important to God.  
I'm positive a multitude of city counsels and mayors would play politics to get the Messiah into their towns yet God would never go against His word.  Today, they would offer tax breaks and freebies. Why even Caesar Augustus thought his plan to get more money had a part to play in getting Joseph & Mary back home to hickville Bethlehem.  

]]> https://calvarygulfcoast.com/blog/2026/05/25/god-uses-the-insignificant-things#comments 0 https://calvarygulfcoast.com/blog/2026/05/22/kingdom-of-heaven-focused Fri, 22 May 2026 10:22:45 +0000 https://calvarygulfcoast.com/blog/2026/05/22/kingdom-of-heaven-focused

Matthew 24:37 But as the days of Noah were, so also will the coming of the Son of Man be. 38 For as in the days before the flood, they were eating and drinking, marrying and giving in marriage, until the day that Noah entered the ark, 39 and did not know until the flood came and took them all away, so also will the coming of the Son of Man be.

We don't know the time of Jesus' appearing when He comes to gather His church and take us to always be with Him.  Jesus Himself told us that in like manner of the days of Noah, business was being done as usual.  The focus wasn't on the handwriting on the wall for say, as Noah built this thing now known as a ship!  They ignored the message of judgment being proclaimed for 120 years.  They were at the place as Peter states in the last days, they mocked Gods word and His promise of His coming!  Then the rains came, the door was shut.  Those who wasn't repentant and God focused perished in the flood.  Everyone has been given Gods word.  What we do with it will matter where we will spend eternity in the life to come.  We are given the right frame of heart by Jesus in this next verse:
24:42 Watch therefore, for you do not know what hour your Lord is coming. 

We are to be actively watching, waiting, doing what God says now!  Jesus is coming again!  Jesus will come for His church, He said so!  Jesus never has idle words.  

]]> https://calvarygulfcoast.com/blog/2026/05/22/kingdom-of-heaven-focused#comments 0 https://calvarygulfcoast.com/blog/2026/05/21/born-at-perfect-timing Thu, 21 May 2026 06:00:00 +0000 https://calvarygulfcoast.com/blog/2026/05/21/born-at-perfect-timing

Galatians 4:4 But when the fullness of the time had come, God sent forth His Son, born of a woman, born under the law, 5 to redeem those who were under the law, that we might receive the adoption as sons. 

This is obviously speaking of Jesus Christ.  God had promised & knew from the foundation of the world that He would humble Himself and become a Man.  There were a lot of generations Jesus could of been born but never as perfect and fulfilling as when He came.  He came when the world basically had one language, common greek.  He came when the world was connected in the greatest ways ever known by roads in the Roman Empire.  He most importantly came when His word said He would, before the scepter departed from Israel.  This passage is all about our wonderful LORD and His glorious right on time coming!
I see a secondary conjecture point here.  No means interpreted in our text here but maybe implied by the very nature of God.  He is all knowing.  I see myself, not born in Messiahs timing, but born in Gods perfect timing when He said I want you to exist.  All of us are wonderfully and fearfully made after Gods image.  I am amazed how God allowed me to be born and greater yet years later come into fellowship with Him.  We are born in the right timing of God, never early, never late.  We are not fulfilling any scripture however we are to glorify God and walk in His word.  Today, 50 years ago, I was born!  I am blown away that God included me and created me and am His servant by choice forever!  Im grateful for the life He has given me and the people He has placed in my life.  I am thankful that He has reconciled me to my Father in heaven.  
You were also born with purpose and at the right time.  God doesnt make mistakes.  Again, this verse has nothing to do with us at all.  It just inspired me to think about the timing of God for my personal life and yours!  Yet it does have something for us, because He came in perfect timing, we can live in eternity with Him!  Just know this, we are no mistake!  We were born when God called us to be born.  

]]> https://calvarygulfcoast.com/blog/2026/05/21/born-at-perfect-timing#comments 1