Calvary Gulf Coast

Calvary Gulf Coast https://calvarygulfcoast.com Tue, 04 Aug 2026 06:00:00 +0000 Tue, 04 Aug 2026 06:00:00 +0000 hourly 1 3600 SnapPages.com Jesus Links Worry to Faithlessness https://calvarygulfcoast.com/blog/2026/09/30/jesus-links-worry-to-faithlessness Wed, 30 Sep 2026 06:00:00 +0000 https://calvarygulfcoast.com/blog/2026/09/30/jesus-links-worry-to-faithlessness

Luke 12:28 If then God so clothes the grass, which today is in the field and tomorrow is thrown into the oven, how much more will He clothe you, O you of little faith?

The point Jesus is making is that if He takes care of things in nature, how much more you are valuable to Him and He will provide every need. There is no reason to worry according to the LORD. In fact, when we worry, it only proves we doubt and we lack faith. Jesus said you of little faith! The you is me and you! The thousands of times I should know better yet still worry. Yes, the Lord brings me out of my worry but how much damage have I done in the meantime? Look, its not even a wonder if I doubt, I do, I have, but Lord forgive me of my unbelief. Help me to believe. Help me to rise above all worries and fears and trust Your proven word.

]]> https://calvarygulfcoast.com/blog/2026/09/30/jesus-links-worry-to-faithlessness#comments 1 Worry Adds No Value To Us https://calvarygulfcoast.com/blog/2026/09/29/worry-adds-no-value-to-us Tue, 29 Sep 2026 06:00:00 +0000 https://calvarygulfcoast.com/blog/2026/09/29/worry-adds-no-value-to-us

Luke 12:25 And which of you by worrying can add one cubit to his stature?

Jesus states the obvious yet man still tries to prove this wrong. Worry will never solve our problems. It has zero value to our lives. It is no good every time. Even physical exercise has a little value according to the word of God. There is no value in worry & anxiety. Its actually proven to hurt us. Worry is the opposite of faith.
Since it has no value, lets keep this in mind the next time worry confronts us. There will be thousands of opportunities, and that is just in a day at times. I choose faith and trust in the Faithful LORD.

]]> https://calvarygulfcoast.com/blog/2026/09/29/worry-adds-no-value-to-us#comments 1 Don't Worry https://calvarygulfcoast.com/blog/2026/09/28/don-t-worry Mon, 28 Sep 2026 06:00:00 +0000 https://calvarygulfcoast.com/blog/2026/09/28/don-t-worry

Luke 12:22 Then He said to His disciples, “Therefore I say to you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat; nor about the body, what you will put on. 23 Life is more than food, and the body is more than clothing.

These two things named by Jesus were the basic necessities of life. To have food and clothing. Yet Jesus said, do not worry about your life. Worry is a part of this world but as Christians, we have the antidote to worry, its called faith and trust in the LORD. Earlier, Jesus said, don't fear him who is able to kill the body but cant do any more but fear Him who is able to kill the body and cast the soul into eternal damnation.
We worry because we feel we lost control of the situation. News flash, we never had control of any situation. The LORD has us. The LORD is in control.

]]> https://calvarygulfcoast.com/blog/2026/09/28/don-t-worry#comments 1 Live Today For Eternity https://calvarygulfcoast.com/blog/2026/09/25/live-today-for-eternity Fri, 25 Sep 2026 06:00:00 +0000 https://calvarygulfcoast.com/blog/2026/09/25/live-today-for-eternity

Luke 12:16 Then He spoke a parable to them, saying: “The ground of a certain rich man yielded plentifully. 17 And he thought within himself, saying, ‘What shall I do, since I have no room to store my crops?’ 18 So he said, ‘I will do this: I will pull down my barns and build greater, and there I will store all my crops and my goods. 19 And I will say to my soul, “Soul, you have many goods laid up for many years; take your ease; eat, drink, and be merry.”
20 But God said to him, ‘Fool! This night your soul will be required of you; then whose will those things be which you have provided?’21 “So is he who lays up treasure for himself, and is not rich toward God.”

This parable Jesus gave is so we can see this earthly example and understand a spiritual reality or truth. It's great to be successful here and I root for you in that however when we just lay up our success for the present, forsaking the future, that is very foolish. Everything we do here, truthfully is counting toward eternity. We are eternal beings created by God and will spend it in heaven or hell. Everything we have is from God and for God's purposes. Some give up everything to gain what will be lost soon, for this world as we know it will burn with fervent heat. The missionary Jim Elliot wisely said, "He is no fool who gives what he cannot keep to gain that which he cannot lose." If you hold onto this worlds possessions without investing them into the kingdom, you will lose everything and have nothing to show for it when you stand before the LORD. However, if you give over to God what you know you cant keep here, well you actually just invested in the greatest investment option ever, you have treasure in heaven in which can never be lost. Choice is yours really, invest in the world or the kingdom of God right now? I am committed to giving of my time, talent, and treasure unto the LORD now.

]]> https://calvarygulfcoast.com/blog/2026/09/25/live-today-for-eternity#comments 0 Dont Be Greedy https://calvarygulfcoast.com/blog/2026/09/24/dont-be-greedy Thu, 24 Sep 2026 06:00:00 +0000 https://calvarygulfcoast.com/blog/2026/09/24/dont-be-greedy

Luke 12:15 And Jesus said to them, “Take heed and beware of covetousness, for one’s life does not consist in the abundance of the things he possesses.”

This world is all about the money. This drive to make more and take what others have. This is really a frustrating environment to live in as a Christian. Some Christians just embrace the status quo and look just like the world. A church often doesnt look any different from the secular world and its business growth models. This thirst and lust for more valueless money consumes the agenda. I have worked for "Christian companies" that were in name only but far worse than a company owned by a heathen.
Gods word says that the love of money is the root of all sorts of evil.
Jesus simply says, Beware of greed. Your life is more than just money and aquiring stuff. I have experienced that the stuff actually takes control of us. It dictates to us how much time we have to work to pay for it or how much less time we get with our families because of it. The simple life seems to be where we all end up eventually anyways.

]]> https://calvarygulfcoast.com/blog/2026/09/24/dont-be-greedy#comments 0 Press Secretary for Jesus? https://calvarygulfcoast.com/blog/2026/09/23/press-secretary-for-jesus Wed, 23 Sep 2026 06:00:00 +0000 https://calvarygulfcoast.com/blog/2026/09/23/press-secretary-for-jesus

Luke 12:11 “Now when they bring you to the synagogues and magistrates and authorities, do not worry about how or what you should answer, or what you should say. 12 For the Holy Spirit will teach you in that very hour what you ought to say.”

This type of trust takes a close communion with God. A close fellowship with your LORD. This requires spending large amounts of time with Jesus and really getting to know Him. If you think the Spirit will just fill your heart and mind with the right stuff at these moments without what I spoke of earlier, you might want to rethink things. Not that God cant or at rare occasions has not ever done that, but that is not the norm.
I am amazed at how familiar and connected press secretaries are with the presidents they serve. They cant go out and just give their opinions. They have to be in beat with the leader of the free world.
As Christians, I don't see a difference in that regard. The things the Spirit draws out of me in times as this are things I have deposited in my spiritual bank, sometimes many years in advance. He brings them up fresh as when the day He gave them.
The reason I wont sweat and worry about what to say is I have had many amazing conversations with my LORD and He will refresh His word in my heart and mind when I need it.
Look, when you have time to study, study until there is no more time. Then trust the LORD will give you what you need in His season. I have found it impossible to every prepare for every encounter you have because the majority of them, you never know whom you will encounter. In order for a heart to be settled in regards to this text Jesus gave us is to study to show yourself approved unto God, one who rightly divides the word of God and is not ashamed. Talk to Jesus continually. Then these times will be no sweat. His word & love will naturally flow from you.

]]> https://calvarygulfcoast.com/blog/2026/09/23/press-secretary-for-jesus#comments 2 Confession Unto Salvation https://calvarygulfcoast.com/blog/2026/09/21/confession-unto-salvation Mon, 21 Sep 2026 06:00:00 +0000 https://calvarygulfcoast.com/blog/2026/09/21/confession-unto-salvation

Luke 12:8 “Also I say to you, whoever confesses Me before men, him the Son of Man also will confess before the angels of God. 9 But he who denies Me before men will be denied before the angels of God.

This is crystal clear from our LORD and Savior Jesus Christ. Confess Jesus before men and He will confess you before His Father. Deny Him, and He will deny you before His Father.
Confession that Jesus Christ is your LORD is a requirement for eternal life. Its not alone to believe He exists, the demons do that. He must be your LORD. You believe Him He is your sacrifice for your sins. He is not ashamed to call you His.
But what if I mess up and sin? Well, your human! Repent of your sin, turn to God, ask Him to forgive you of that sin, and follow Jesus.

The simplicity of the Christian faith is summed up in our confession of Jesus Christ. Millions have been killed for their courageous firm stand upon that action. It hasn't changed for today.

No matter what amount of persecutions you may endure for your Faith, stand for Christ. You will never be ashamed of that.

]]> https://calvarygulfcoast.com/blog/2026/09/21/confession-unto-salvation#comments 0 Called To Walk in Faith https://calvarygulfcoast.com/blog/2026/09/17/called-to-walk-in-faith Thu, 17 Sep 2026 06:00:00 +0000 https://calvarygulfcoast.com/blog/2026/09/17/called-to-walk-in-faith

Numbers 13:1 And the LORD spoke to Moses, saying, 2 “Send men to spy out the land of Canaan, which I am giving to the children of Israel; from each tribe of their fathers you shall send a man, every one a leader among them.”

How exciting, it is finally time to move into the calling of God. God sends out 12 to experience and witness what He has already said about the land He gave to them. The story should be happily ever after right? No, life begins now. Now is the time when we put our trust & faith to the test. Do we believe Him or do we doubt? God never hid anything from them but they failed to understand how utterly impossible it always was in of their own flesh. Have you come to understand this as well as to living a victorious Christian in the land of wicked giants? God didn't save you and promise you things because you are so dedicated or strong. He called you when you were weak and received His strength. He is making us and showing us and battling through us but make no mistake about it, the victory is 100% His. Now, will you trust Him? He doesn't lead us into defeat but will allow it if we operate in our flesh. He that began in the Spirit, will he be made perfect in his flesh now?

]]> https://calvarygulfcoast.com/blog/2026/09/17/called-to-walk-in-faith#comments 0 The LORD Wont Leave You https://calvarygulfcoast.com/blog/2026/09/16/the-lord-wont-leave-you Wed, 16 Sep 2026 09:04:39 +0000 https://calvarygulfcoast.com/blog/2026/09/16/the-lord-wont-leave-you

Deut 31:8 And the LORD, He is the One who goes before you. He will be with you, He will not leave you nor forsake you; do not fear nor be dismayed.”

Moses reassures Joshua what the LORD wanted him to know before entering the promise land. Moses cannot enter due to his actions and this had to be challenging for young Joshua. In fact, everyone who grew up with Joshua except Caleb would not enter! Talk about being left alone even in the midst of a multitude.
This is one of the things I greatly dislike about ministry the most, people whom you love and learn to depend upon leave! For all sorts of reasons but they leave. As the man of God, you don't get that option. Ministry can feel lonely and enough of these departures can alienate a leader and cause him to put up walls to not hurt like this again, which is a spiral downward. Sometimes, the LORD just wants to remind him, I wont leave you or forsake you, like ever!
I know this passage well in my time as a Christian leader, a under shepherd of my LORDS body. It still hurts but I have grown a lot through it also and not holding tightly what doesn't belong to me. The church is Gods and He chooses who goes where and who comes too. I'm just to faithfully love and feed His sheep. Then there is the aspect of, I only have so much of me to give and there will be nothing left. Ah, but our wonderful LORD has made provision there as well because I'm not to give of myself but give of Him and He lacks nothing and has an endless supply. When I come to the end of myself, that's where the LORD wants me and can use me. And then there is the blessing of having my wife who has never left my side and has always supported me. There has been countless brothers & sisters who have fully supported me, even the ones whom God has moved on from me.
We can look at the cup half full or half empty however it's the LORD who will overflow that cup in a supernatural amazing way.

]]> https://calvarygulfcoast.com/blog/2026/09/16/the-lord-wont-leave-you#comments 2 The Crowds Around Jesus Can Be Rude https://calvarygulfcoast.com/blog/2026/09/15/the-crowds-around-jesus-can-be-rude Tue, 15 Sep 2026 06:00:00 +0000 https://calvarygulfcoast.com/blog/2026/09/15/the-crowds-around-jesus-can-be-rude

Luke 12:1 In the meantime, when an innumerable multitude of people had gathered together, so that they trampled one another...

We would like to think that church is a perfect place where everyone respects and prefers each other before himself. Well, it is not just in case you were not aware. It never was and I assume, until Jesus returns, never will. People get trampled upon and hurt. People say mean things. However, where else can you go to hear and witness Gods word on display in the midst of imperfect people. At the end of the day, we are selfish without God and have no hope without Him. Use the same criteria you judge the church with any secular gathering, and it will result far worse. I don't excuse this behavior in our churches, I wont tolerate that in our local church, but Its impossible to avoid such behavior, we just have to address it when it happens.
I guess, that is why it is so special when a church operates in the love of Christ toward each other. Jesus said this, the world will know you are His disciples by your love. The love of God is the direction of the church and when we fail this purpose, we must repent. Life isn't fair or perfect and I have had my fair share of loved ones who left our church due to people relations out of my control. Recently, an old text message chain was used and a joke was presented. Well, unbeknownst to this guy, another guy who fit the bill of his joke happened to be on as well. He didn't take it well and commented such. Another guy took offense to his response and now an atomic bomb blew up all because we didn't care about trampling upon others! I don't shame any of them but there are consequences. A couple left the church due to this, much more what was going on in their hearts and this was just the straw that broke the back.
I have seen whole families leave the church due to a couple who divorces. Not fair, after all, I invested my life into them and lose them both! Again, people trample people but all in all, the church is the best organism on the planet because its the body of Christ! This is where Jesus meets with us and we honor Him. If you are currently being trampled upon, let this encourage you, Jesus has you. If you are trampling upon others, stop it! Jesus is watching.

]]> https://calvarygulfcoast.com/blog/2026/09/15/the-crowds-around-jesus-can-be-rude#comments 1 Love For Jesus' Body https://calvarygulfcoast.com/blog/2026/09/14/love-for-jesus-body Mon, 14 Sep 2026 06:00:00 +0000 https://calvarygulfcoast.com/blog/2026/09/14/love-for-jesus-body

Matt 27:57 57 Now when evening had come, there came a rich man from Arimathea, named Joseph, who himself had also become a disciple of Jesus. 58 This man went to Pilate and asked for the body of Jesus. Then Pilate commanded the body to be given to him. 59 When Joseph had taken the body, he wrapped it in a clean linen cloth, 60 and laid it in his new tomb which he had hewn out of the rock; and he rolled a large stone against the door of the tomb, and departed. 61 And Mary Magdalene was there, and the other Mary, sitting opposite the tomb.

The love of Jesus is the greatest measure of our Christianity. How we love Christ' body is just as important or more so to Him. All four gospels record the love and respect for Jesus' literal body after His death. I mean, think about the respect and honor this was to handle Jesus' lifeless body in love, cleaning Him up somewhat, wrapping Him in this shroud, giving Him a proper burial. Then there was the fact that this was during Holy days and touching blood or the dead would make you unclean.
Nobody touching Jesus was unclean that day but they were the cleanest they could ever be.
Do we, as the church, the body of Christ, love the spiritual body of Christ this much? Do we go out of our way, even if it inconveniences us, to respect Christ' church? Do we seek to help clean her wounds and give her honor? We prove this when we love His body, the church. Love the unlovable, because they belong to Jesus.

]]> https://calvarygulfcoast.com/blog/2026/09/14/love-for-jesus-body#comments 1 The Word of God is the Key https://calvarygulfcoast.com/blog/2026/09/11/the-word-of-god-is-the-key Fri, 11 Sep 2026 07:00:00 +0000 https://calvarygulfcoast.com/blog/2026/09/11/the-word-of-god-is-the-key

Luke 11:52 “Woe to you lawyers! For you have taken away the key of knowledge. You did not enter in yourselves, and those who were entering in you hindered.”

Lets begin by defining this "key of Knowledge". It is so major, Jesus hinged these religious scribes eternity upon it and their drive to keep others out as well.
They prided themselves on their maticulous attention to the scriptures. Yet, as Jesus stated, behold in the volume of the book, its written of Me. The word of God is about the Word of God, Jesus Christ. He is the wisdom of God that alone unlocks knowledge. Any attempt to understand this creation apart from Christ, well, is futile. Jesus created all things, and all things were created by Him and for Him. The religious establishment rejected the Chief Cornerstone. It gets much worse for them. Not only did they reject Christ, all those free thinkers about Christ were threatened and hindered to approach Jesus as well. Beware of anyone who puts ultimatums upon men. They are used as leverage to get what they want from them. Christ gives you a choice for the brains He created in man.
Its one thing to protect those from false Christs or prophets by using the truth of the Bible to expose the lies. Yet, Jesus fulfilled the very scriptures these scribes would copy day in and out seeing perfectly well, Jesus fulfilled these passages, yet out of envy, rejected Him still. They lost the argument and they were losing their followers quickly.
The midevil church put a death sentence upon any who would translate the Bible into English from Latin. This was their attempt to keep the power with the only men who could read the scriptures, the hard hearted priests who practiced all sorts of unbiblical things, even unto this day. We just know better now.

]]> https://calvarygulfcoast.com/blog/2026/09/11/the-word-of-god-is-the-key#comments 0 Seeking the very best https://calvarygulfcoast.com/blog/2026/09/10/seeking-the-very-best Thu, 10 Sep 2026 06:00:00 +0000 https://calvarygulfcoast.com/blog/2026/09/10/seeking-the-very-best

Luke 11:43 “Woe to you Pharisees! For you love the best seats in the synagogues and greetings in the marketplaces.

The Pharisees loved the places of honor and recognition of men, especially in public places. You know, just to build up their religious cred among others they sought to dominate over. Jesus rebuke this lifestyle. So why does so much of the church chase this very thing.
we see a wise practice that Abraham employed with his nephew Lott in Genesis. Their business got so large they needed to branch out in different locations. What Abraham did was gave Lott the first pick of the land. Of course, a person seeking the Spirits lead would of alaays, without exception, choose the lesser of the two choices out of love for his brother. Instead, Lott got eyes full of carnality and chose the seemingly best spot. What does this mean for his uncle Abraham? And the dishonor of sending his family elder to the lesser spot to struggle to survive? How selfish our flesh can be, for real! We know the story, that choice Lott made was his demise. I have no doubt, God would have blessed them both if Lott just made decisions his Lord would have made. I have chosen the lesser path on many occasions, not because they appeared better, they were just right! And God blessed each one. We have got to trust God as Abraham to know no matter which direction you are left, He blesses. Yet we also need to set a standard to always if given a selection, always chose the lesser in preference of your brother. Knowing, God creates beautiful things out of nothing.
Now, these Pharisees are no different than you and I its just we are blessed to have the Spirit of God convict us not to live as they. Who doesn't want to be honored & recognized? The Lord places new desires within us to point others to Him, not us. Please, do yourself a solid next time, learn from the scriptures next time you are given a choice of preference. What would Jesus choose?

]]> https://calvarygulfcoast.com/blog/2026/09/10/seeking-the-very-best#comments 0 Ambassadors & Translators https://calvarygulfcoast.com/blog/2026/09/09/ambassadors-translators Wed, 09 Sep 2026 06:00:00 +0000 https://calvarygulfcoast.com/blog/2026/09/09/ambassadors-translators

2 Corinthians 5:20 Now then, we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God were pleading through us: we implore you on Christ’s behalf, be reconciled to God.

An ambassador has two primary goals. 1st to represent their leader and 2nd to relate to the foreign land in which they are sent. Translators have a similar mission. Its not enough that the messenger clearly defines the message, but the translator must articulate that message to the people. Both these, the Christian should seek to be great at.
We should have the message of heaven but also be able to speak, or translate that message to earth, in a way common unchurched people will understand. If we fail this, you fail being an ambassador. How many Christians speak way over the heathens heads with Christian language? Do they think these folks will miraculously understand them? Paul became all things to reach all people.
I have noticed some of the church only speak heavenly languages that are way over heads while other liberal churches speak watered down earthly messages that cant change anyone. Is our church properly interpreting the Lord fur His people? If He died for all men, we must do our due diligence to reach all men, no matter the cost.

]]> https://calvarygulfcoast.com/blog/2026/09/09/ambassadors-translators#comments 1 Majoring in the minors https://calvarygulfcoast.com/blog/2026/09/08/majoring-in-the-minors Tue, 08 Sep 2026 05:00:00 +0000 https://calvarygulfcoast.com/blog/2026/09/08/majoring-in-the-minors

Luke 11:42“But woe to you Pharisees! For you tithe mint and rue and all manner of herbs, and pass by justice and the love of God. These you ought to have done, without leaving the others undone.

I have experienced in my Christian walk that it is very easy to get caught up in the lesser things of life. Not that they are not important but to leave the primary things undone will result in a frustrating life as a believer. We need to focus our goals upon the weighter things of God like love and justice. If I can do that, those other secondary things will naturally take place as well. Not only will the secondary things happen, you will enjoy them.

]]> https://calvarygulfcoast.com/blog/2026/09/08/majoring-in-the-minors#comments 0 The moment you were aware of Jesus https://calvarygulfcoast.com/blog/2026/08/31/the-moment-you-were-aware-of-jesus Mon, 31 Aug 2026 06:00:00 +0000 https://calvarygulfcoast.com/blog/2026/08/31/the-moment-you-were-aware-of-jesus

John 1:38 Then Jesus turned, and seeing them following, said to them, “What do you seek?” They said to Him, “Rabbi” (which is to say, when translated, Teacher), “where are You staying?”39 He said to them, “Come and see.” They came and saw where He was staying, and remained with Him that day (now it was about the tenth hour).

There are so many life changing texts in the bible as this but are often over looked. My attention is drawn to a question and invitation by Jesus and then a very precise moment they were aware Jesus was Messiah. First, these guys start to follow Jesus, Im sure skeptical at first, and Jesus turns to them. WHAT DO YOU SEEK? This is what the Spirit leads us to do with Jesus, follow Him. Where did Jesus ever ask them to follow yet? He will much later, but conditions of their hearts were matured by then. Seco d, Jesus invites them to COME AND SEE. You must respond to His invite. What will you experience? Don't know, but it will be an amazing journey. You must come and see however.
Third, they recorded this at the 10th hour. Some have tried to point out a specific hour of the day, but that is not the point at all. The key here is whenever you have an interaction with God, you will know about it. It makes a lasting impression upon you. Every major event since I have been alive I can recall where I was and what I was doing. How much more meeting God? My Peter moment was when I was driving home and the Lord showed me a vision of myself spiritually as a shaky shack upon a solid foundation. When I arrived home, I began to read from Romans and stopped in 1 Corinthians 3. That's were the Spirit confirmed the vision I had on my drive home. This interaction propelled my course with the Lord to great heights. I have been coming and seeing every since.

]]> https://calvarygulfcoast.com/blog/2026/08/31/the-moment-you-were-aware-of-jesus#comments 0 How to Train for Spiritual Warfare? https://calvarygulfcoast.com/blog/2026/08/27/how-to-train-for-spiritual-warfare Thu, 27 Aug 2026 06:00:00 +0000 https://calvarygulfcoast.com/blog/2026/08/27/how-to-train-for-spiritual-warfare

2 Corinthians 10:3 For though we walk in the flesh, we do not war according to the flesh. 4 For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal but mighty in God for pulling down strongholds, 5 casting down arguments and every high thing that exalts itself against the knowledge of God, bringing every thought into captivity to the obedience of Christ,

The day in which we live, our battlefields have changed. We are tooling up for ai warfare rather than men on the battlefields. Our troops are planning using drones and man less vehicles. If we dont adapt to this, thousands or worse will die. Here the word tells us the same thing, but spiritually. We need to tool up now!
It is easy for us as Christians to focus all of our efforts into the wrong strategy of the war we are in. Since our flesh uses the natural senses, they can deceive us. I must confess, the testosterone pumps when I'm around guns, survival equipment, so on and I start to plan for external threats when the most dangerous threat can not be seen. Our battle is not people, they are just vessels, but the devil and his influence he has over such. We are not defenseless, or even better yet, we can actually go on offense but we must prepare and train the correct way. Less physical actions and more spiritual prayer coupled with the word of God. Satan is a defeated foe but often the church doesnt act as though he is. Last time I checked, darkness can not overcome the Light of Christ. We must as Christians start thinking in these ways and judge everything by the word of God. If something in our lives are suspect flesh, world, or the devil, they are to be brought into captivity by the word of God. Gods word has the final say.

]]> https://calvarygulfcoast.com/blog/2026/08/27/how-to-train-for-spiritual-warfare#comments 1 What can One do to Please God? https://calvarygulfcoast.com/blog/2026/08/26/what-can-one-do-to-please-god Wed, 26 Aug 2026 06:00:00 +0000 https://calvarygulfcoast.com/blog/2026/08/26/what-can-one-do-to-please-god

Hebrews 13:16 But do not forget to do good and to share, for with such sacrifices God is well pleased.

Obviously, the number one answer is to walk in faith. For without faith in Christ, it is impossible to please Him. But here is an often overlooked verse, also in Hebrews about what pleases God. This one requires faith in order to do. We are to follow in our LORDS foot steps and do good and share with folks. We are told not to forget to do these things because they don't come natural to most of us. Often, our muscle memory is to be selfish and if we have abundance, then we may think about some charity. The only way I know to not forget something is to form a habit. Earlier on, when I was prescribed medication, it was difficult to remember if I had taken it or not. Some even need daily pill separators! Jesus went around doing good. If you believe Him and want to follow after Jesus, you will also do good & share as He. I have thoroughly rejected this destructive heresy found in some church circles that all Gods blessings must center around me. God bless me! God enlarge my blessings and who cares about others. When I empty my time, treasure, & talent out that's when God refills me! Yes God loves to bless you yet not just you, but the world around you.

]]> https://calvarygulfcoast.com/blog/2026/08/26/what-can-one-do-to-please-god#comments 0 The Light is Victorious over Darkness https://calvarygulfcoast.com/blog/2026/08/25/the-light-is-victorious-over-darkness Tue, 25 Aug 2026 06:00:00 +0000 https://calvarygulfcoast.com/blog/2026/08/25/the-light-is-victorious-over-darkness

John 1:5 And the light shines in the darkness, and the darkness did not comprehend it.

God's light came shining in this dark world and the darkness could not overcome Him. This is the case every time. The Light of Christ is undefeated. Naturally, light will always cast out all darkness. It isn't even a match. In God, there is zero darkness.
Does it seem darkness is winning against you today? The simple antidote is to allow the light of Christ to shine upon your life. Darkness cannot overcome Jesus!

]]> https://calvarygulfcoast.com/blog/2026/08/25/the-light-is-victorious-over-darkness#comments 0 Who or what do you seek after? https://calvarygulfcoast.com/blog/2026/08/24/who-or-what-do-you-seek-after Mon, 24 Aug 2026 06:00:00 +0000 https://calvarygulfcoast.com/blog/2026/08/24/who-or-what-do-you-seek-after

Luke 11:29 And while the crowds were thickly gathered together, Jesus began to say, “This is an evil generation. It seeks a sign, and no sign will be given to it except the sign of Jonah the prophet.

These are our LORDS words spoken. Who does Jesus refer to as an evil generation? Those who seek after signs & wonders rather than God Himself. Who doesn't love action or miraculous events? Yet, those that seek after them neither know the Miracle worker or the experiences of a personal relationship to Him. At best, they witness the powerful display but have no clue how it happened. To be fair, we do the same yet its not our prerogative to understand how God does what He does, just that we believe He is who He says He is. I have no idea how God spoke the universe into existence but knowing Him personally, I understand He did. I now can believe nothing is impossible for God knowing the person of God. I simply seek the LORD, and He takes care of the signs & wonders that WILL follow as I believe in Him. Any attempt to seek after anything other than the source, in this case Jesus Christ, is evil, and prone to be deceived by the wicked one.

]]> https://calvarygulfcoast.com/blog/2026/08/24/who-or-what-do-you-seek-after#comments 0 Mary Chose that Better Thing https://calvarygulfcoast.com/blog/2026/08/12/mary-chose-that-better-thing Wed, 12 Aug 2026 06:00:00 +0000 https://calvarygulfcoast.com/blog/2026/08/12/mary-chose-that-better-thing

Luke 10:42 But one thing is needed, and Mary has chosen that good part, which will not be taken away from her.

Jesus' answer to Martha about Mary is life changing. Mary chose to sit at Jesus' feet in devotion to Him and then she could work for Him. It is never the other way around. We cant work ourselves to the point of devotion. This is also a choice we must make. Do we focus on what we do for God or focus on what God is doing for us? The latter is what I believe the LORD leads us to do and when we realize what He has done for us, nothing will hold us back from working for Him and with Him. I have done a lot of great things for God in my life but only because I have experienced what He has done for me. It is a spiritual byproduct of His love flowing from my life. When I get caught up in the rut of serving without knowing He is in it, thats when I need to step off and get back to the feet of Jesus. This is a willful choice to sit at Jesus' feet or busy yourselves to the point of stressed out chaos.

]]> https://calvarygulfcoast.com/blog/2026/08/12/mary-chose-that-better-thing#comments 0 On what high horse did you ride in upon? https://calvarygulfcoast.com/blog/2026/08/11/on-what-high-horse-did-you-ride-in-upon Tue, 11 Aug 2026 06:00:00 +0000 https://calvarygulfcoast.com/blog/2026/08/11/on-what-high-horse-did-you-ride-in-upon

Luke 10: 40 But Martha was distracted with much serving, and she approached Him and said, “Lord, do You not care that my sister has left me to serve alone? Therefore tell her to help me.”

Martha was a workaholic. She set the measurement by which was right or wrong. She confident enough that her side was right and she was going to get Jesus to back her up. She was so busy, she never took the time to evaluate her own state of mind. I see many Christians fall into her same traps because they never identify what they are.
1st She was distracted. Distractions keep us from a proper focus and can often cost lives. Many people these days get into major accidents due to looking at their phones rather than being responsible of several thousand pounds of steel at high rates of speed.
2nd she approached Jesus on a high horse. No humility, truly inquiring of her opinion being correct. Many Christians bring God their preconceived ideas in an unworthy manner. He is God and we are not.
3rd Martha demands Jesus rebuke Mary for the added work load upon her. This seems just but when you really look at this, Martha is commanding Jesus do what she knows is right and has belittled her sister Mary as lazy. When you come to the LORD for anything really, do you command Him? If you do, this means you already know the correct action but Jesus is slow to get on board? I don't feel confident stating this to my LORD! This is never a good idea.
4th Martha demands Jesus to tell Mary to help her. Why not just ask Mary yourself? Is it because deep down, you know Mary may be right and Martha wrong? Obviously, Martha wasn't comfortable in her own actions so she needs support from Jesus. When I make a decision, right or wrong, I own it regardless of who backs me up. Now, this hasn't always been proven the best tactic but the point being, if you are correct, you really don't need anyone's approval. I know that sounds strange since the one she sought was Jesus.
We must make statements based off Gods word where we know we have His approval every time. If it lines up with Gods word, I have all the confidence I need to stand on a particular issue. There are grey areas in life that we can not be dogmatic upon. Some Christians don't know the word of God so they really don't personally stand on issues for long. I know God is love thus I will die upon that hill. I don't need to question God if that is true.
Look, if you have to tell God to do anything about someone else, most likely, you are in the wrong. Don't you think He knows long before you do if things are wrong?

]]> https://calvarygulfcoast.com/blog/2026/08/11/on-what-high-horse-did-you-ride-in-upon#comments 1 Devotion or Works? https://calvarygulfcoast.com/blog/2026/08/10/devotion-or-works Mon, 10 Aug 2026 06:00:00 +0000 https://calvarygulfcoast.com/blog/2026/08/10/devotion-or-works

Luke 10:38 Now it happened as they went that He entered a certain village; and a certain woman named Martha welcomed Him into her house. 39 And she had a sister called Mary, who also sat at Jesus’ feet and heard His word. 40 But Martha was distracted with much serving...

Here is a perfect contrast between two means in regards to God. One sums up religion to its very core. The other relationship. You can work completely to the point of death without experiencing the LORD. Or you can experience the LORD and then walk in the labor of love Christ has led you to do in the power of the Spirit.
I am not saying Martha is a bad woman or her heavy task focus was all wrong. What I am saying is she got into a place apart from where she needed to be, at the feet of her Master. Mary, I'm sure, wasn't no lazy person, for it surprised Martha that she left her to sit at Jesus' feet speaks volumes.
We can be of no earthly good if we don't have these heavenly encounters with our LORD. It was Martha that was distracted with much serving. Mary was focused upon Jesus. Looking unto Jesus, the Author and Completer of our faith. The time we give & spend with Jesus will never be lost or wasted. I have never heard the LORD rebuke anyone who came to Him and sat at His feet but it is well recorded of many who worked hard apart from this simple process. So why don't we spend more time at Jesus' feet? I believe them out work will be more efficient and targeted, kind of like the example of Jesus. Everywhere He went had purpose.

]]> https://calvarygulfcoast.com/blog/2026/08/10/devotion-or-works#comments 2 Path or Paths? https://calvarygulfcoast.com/blog/2026/08/05/path-or-paths Wed, 05 Aug 2026 06:00:00 +0000 https://calvarygulfcoast.com/blog/2026/08/05/path-or-paths

Galatians 5:16 I say then: Walk in the Spirit, and you shall not fulfill the lust of the flesh.

This is the difference between selfish living and selfless living, or living after Jesus. To walk in the Spirit means to refuse your selfishness, pick up Jesus' cross in your life, and follow Him. Walking in the Spirit is a narrow path, few choose it but leads to abundant living. Walking in the Spirit produces Christ like character in us.
Walking after the flesh with its many lusts is every other path. Many Christians choose these paths. The choice really is ours because of Jesus' sacrifice He paid and the design He made in us with the capacity to choose Him.
Here is the simple test to know whether the path you are on is after the Spirit or the flesh. Is Jesus on it with you? Does He shine in your path? Will it lead you to Christ like character?

]]> https://calvarygulfcoast.com/blog/2026/08/05/path-or-paths#comments 0 Jesus is the Head of His Church https://calvarygulfcoast.com/blog/2026/08/04/jesus-is-the-head-of-his-church Tue, 04 Aug 2026 06:00:00 +0000 https://calvarygulfcoast.com/blog/2026/08/04/jesus-is-the-head-of-his-church

Colossians 1:18 Christ is also the Head of the church, which is His body...

This is of uttmost importance and yet, many of us will never feel a second of persecution for saying this! I want to highlight an amazing group of martyrs over this declaration alone.
In the mid 1600's the church of Scotland signed a declaration called the national Covenant stating that Christ is Head over the church, not kings or men. They would be named Covenantors. This statement alone would be put under stress a few decades later under king Charles II. He actually came into power by the help of the presbyterian Covenantors as one who would be tolerant to religious freedoms. He was a liar and he began the biggest persecution known to Scotland named the Killing Times (1660-88). 1700 Covenantors were sent to enslavement camps & many more killed. In 1660, king Charles II tore up the covenant demanding he be sole head over the church. Over 300 ministers who disagreed with him was forced out of their churches into the open air wilderness. Many of the congregants would follow them. In 1685, Charles II died and his brother, king James VII, intensified the trials. Three ladies, Margret McLachlan (older), Margret Wilson (18 yrs old), and her sister Agnes (13 yrs old), were civil yet courageous in their faith of Christ.
These three were imprisoned in the worst quarters for the simple reason they would not recant Christ is head of His church. The judges over them were the worst of the Killing Times murders and truth wasn't the goal, it was submission to the king! The charges all trumped up and false but only for the purpose that they recant. They were all sentenced to death by sea. The father paid a ransom of 100 lbs silver for Agnes and rushed to plead for Margret Wilson. He actually made it in time and this never happening before, they gave the two Margret's a reprieve and pardon. They still carried out the sentence.
They would tie up older Margret McLachlan to a stake on the beach at low tide and further inland, Margret Wilson would be tied to a stake. All with intention for the older to die and cause fear in the younger to save her life and recant! Margret Wilson showed more courage than anyone else I've ever heard about as she was given another chance to save her life, one shouted out, "what do you see now Margret" as McLachlan drowned. Her response was solid, "what do I see but Christ in one of His members, do you think we are the ones who suffer?" Her last words were actually the Word of God as she quoted Psalm 25 & Romans 8 What shall separate us from the love of God?
Here death brought life to the church. Shortly after, the people of Scotland overthrew king James VII and the Presbyterian Covenantors went on to thrive.
How serious are you with simple passages as Colossians 1:18? Dont fear men who can only kill the body but fear God who also has control over your eternity. Jesus is my Head.

]]> https://calvarygulfcoast.com/blog/2026/08/04/jesus-is-the-head-of-his-church#comments 2