The Force of Will
When facing unimaginable trials, Jesus didn’t rely on the force of His will but instead prayed, “Not my will, but yours be done” (Lk. 22:42). In our own challenges, may we find strength in following His example of surrender.
Dealing with Disappointment
When disappointment strikes, it’s easy to let doubt and discouragement cloud our faith. However, by shifting our perspective and trusting God’s plan, we can transform these moments into opportunities for growth, knowing that He uses even the hard times to shape and guide us.
When Everything is Lost
In moments of immense loss and despair, both Job and David offer remarkable declarations of trust and praise to God. Despite having every reason to cry out for deliverance, their faith was rooted not in what God had given or taken away, but in who He is. Even when everything seems lost, we are reminded that the greatness of God far exceeds the circumstances of this world—His goodness remains, and we can still declare, "The name of the Lord be praised."
Heaven's Gaze
In this edition of The Equipped, we reflect on the most agonizing moment of Jesus' crucifixion—when He cried out in despair, feeling abandoned by His Father. Though the physical suffering was immense, it was the turning away of God the Father that caused Jesus the deepest pain. Yet, this unimaginable moment of abandonment was motivated by an even greater love: God's love for you. As John 3:16 reminds us, the Father turned His gaze from His beloved Son so He could turn it toward us, offering us eternal life and adoption into His family.
Israel Responds
Israel has responded to recent missile attacks from Iran with targeted strikes on Iranian military and nuclear facilities, reportedly resulting in the deaths of four Iranian soldiers and one civilian. As Jesus followers, we are called to pray for peace and for those in harm's way, holding onto God's steadfastness in the face of a conflict that threatens to expand further.
Pastors: Learn to Lament
Grieving is essential to spiritual health, yet often overlooked, especially for pastors. Unresolved grief can lead to emotional, physical, and spiritual harm, impacting every aspect of life. By expressing grief healthily—through trusted relationships, recognizing a new normal, and seeking professional help when needed—pastors can navigate their sorrow and grow deeper in their spiritual journey.
Hamas Leader Killed
Yahya Sinwar, the leader of Hamas and architect of the October 2023 attacks on Israel, has been killed by Israeli Defense Forces. As the conflict persists, followers of Jesus are called to pray for justice, peace, and salvation, remembering that God's love and grace are extended to all.
Election Week
As Americans cast their votes this election week, attention centers on the presidential race, while voters also weigh in on key down-ballot issues. For followers of Jesus, now is the time to prepare to respond with humility, respect, and a renewed commitment to serving, no matter the outcome.
God Laughs
As the world conspires and nations plot, Psalm 2 reminds us that God laughs, knowing His Kingdom is already established and unshakable. While the turmoil of this world may feel overwhelming, we can take comfort in knowing that God’s King is already on His throne, and our ultimate security lies in His eternal Kingdom.
Google and Monopoly
In this edition of The Equipped, we reflect on Google’s legal battles over monopolistic practices and the broader challenge technology poses for believers. While modern connectedness allows us to share the Gospel globally, it can also hinder our deeper relationships, including with God. As we navigate these advancements, let’s intentionally evaluate how we steward technology and prioritize our intimacy with God and those around us.
Responding to Halloween as a Believer
As fall approaches and Halloween nears, many churches and believers wrestle with how to respond. Whether rejecting, countering, accepting, or engaging with the holiday, there are biblical perspectives to support each approach. Halloween offers a unique opportunity for outreach, with neighbors coming directly to your doorstep—a chance to connect and potentially create pathways back to the church.
Discipleship: The Ministry of the Church, Not Just a Ministry in the Church
Explore the vital role of discipleship in the church. Too often, discipleship is treated as just another ministry option, but it is actually the core mission of the church. A disciple-making church goes beyond hosting events, focusing instead on transforming lives by equipping believers to engage deeply with Scripture, build authentic relationships, and live missionally. Discipleship isn’t a Sunday-only activity—it’s a seven-day calling. At Replicate, we help churches shift their focus from managing programs to fulfilling Jesus’ command to make disciples.
The Longest Year
In this week's edition of The Equipped, we reflect on the one-year anniversary of the violent Hamas incursion into Israel, which led to ongoing conflict and devastation in the region. As Israel continues to face attacks on multiple fronts, the longing for peace feels distant. Yet, we are reminded that while earthly peace may be elusive, a deeper, eternal peace is promised through Jesus, the “Prince of Peace” (Is. 9:6).
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Tension on the Korean Peninsula
In this week's edition of The Equipped, we examine North Korea's symbolic demolition of key road and rail links with South Korea, signaling a departure from any pretense of reunification. As tensions rise, this is a reminder that while nations engage in conflict, our call as Jesus followers is to reach the hearts of individuals—God’s love extends to every corner of the globe, including places of isolation like North Korea.
Return to Normal
As Amazon plans a return to five-day in-office work weeks in January 2025, many see it as a sign of the pandemic receding into history. While some call this a return to normal, others believe a “new normal” has emerged. In the midst of these shifts, let us remember that our true purpose is spreading the Gospel, as Jesus foretells in Matthew 24, focusing on the eternal rather than the temporary changes of this world.
One
In a world filled with distractions and competing demands for our attention, the message remains clear: there is only one God, and He is jealous for our worship. Despite the many altars we may face—whether in business, relationships, or politics—He alone calls us to devote our lives fully to Him.
Fostering Unity Through Common Purpose in Your Staff - Part 2
Fostering unity in churches and non-profits requires servant leadership and celebrating team successes. Leaders who prioritize service and acknowledge team achievements create a culture of care, strengthening the collective commitment to the organization's mission.
What's Your Spiritual Narrative
Spiritual growth often starts with behavior, but God calls us to something deeper—wholeness in Christ. Instead of living in fear, trying to earn God's approval, we are meant to trust His redemptive work, recognizing that we are complete in Him and growing spiritually through His transformation of our hearts.
The Tongue of Angels
In 1 Corinthians 13, even worthy actions like eloquent speech, vast knowledge, and fervent faith are meaningless without love. While it's important to pursue these qualities, the Bible reminds us that love must fuel them to give them true value. This week, focus on ensuring that your actions—whether in speech, faith, or generosity—are motivated by genuine love, as love is the greatest gift of all (1 Cor. 13:13). Without it, our best efforts gain nothing and fall short of their potential.
Keeping Your Family a Priority
Balancing pastoral duties and family life can be challenging, as both demand time and attention. To keep your family a priority, establish boundaries like designating an untouchable family night, continuing to date your spouse, and being fully present during family moments. Engage with your children when they want to talk, even at unexpected times, and communicate clearly with both your family and church leadership. Thoughtful planning and intentional choices can help you thrive in both your pastoral role and family life.