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“New Beginnings” – Maha’s Story | AWR360° Miracle Story

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A new year has just begun, and if you’re like me, you love new things. A new car, a new house, new beginnings, and even a blank new page. But to Heaven, the best “new” of all is a soul saved for God’s kingdom. Maha was a thief, and a thief of the worst kind. He not only robbed people of their goods and their cattle, but the large-scale attacks he carried out with his gang of thieves terrorized the community and struck fear in the hearts of the villagers. His escapades became so notorious that Maha feared his neighbors would turn him in to the military police. So when he learned of a possible ambush, Maha fled his village and took refuge at his aunt and uncle’s house in another town. But unbeknownst to Maha, God had led him there, because his family listened to Adventist World Radio every day! Maha had no choice but to listen. Day after day, he learned things he’d never heard before. Then one day, something caught his attention. The more he heard it, and the more he listened, the more he wanted that “something” for himself. But was it possible? Watch this video to find out what Maha wanted so badly and how God was able to change his heart and turn his life around completely. May this new year be a year of renewed commitment, of new opportunities to share God’s message, and of new victories for His kingdom. We are living in unprecedented times, and we’ve been granted exceptional opportunities to share the good news of Christ’s soon return with the world. Let’s make the most of it! Yours in the Blessed Hope, Duane McKey
President MB01X2GIHHXF2N6
HRVEQ31XW8IFHXVR Source: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kRWm1CPv6tE

1: God Loves Freely – Teaching Plan

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Key Thought: God freely loves everyone. His love is generous and merciful, as He voluntarily chooses to reveal His sacrificial love, even when people are unfaithful.
January 4, 2025

1. Have a volunteer read Hosea 14:1-4

  1. Ask class members to share a short thought on what the most important point is in this passage.
  2. What do these verses reveal about God’s steadfast love for His people?
  3.  Personal Application: In what ways does God continue to reveal or manifest His love to you? Share your thoughts.
  4. Case Study: One of your relatives states, “Why is these so much misunderstanding of God’s character? Does a misunderstanding of hell make Him out to be a God of hate instead of love? Do people’s ideas of God as love override the fact that He is a God of justice as well?” How would you respond to your relative?

2. Have a volunteer read John John 17:24, Revelation 4:11

  1. Ask class members to share a thought on what the most important point in this text is.
  2. What does this tell us about God’s love before Creation and His choice to create in the first place?
  3. Personal Application: What does it tell you that God continues to bestow His love on this world despite the evil, disbelief, and rebellion? Share your thoughts.
  4. Case Study: One of your friends states, “How do the three angel’s messages reveal God’s love to humankind? Why do the second and third angel’s messages seem so harsh?” How would you respond to your friend?

3. Have a volunteer read Matthew 22:1-14

  1. Ask class members to share a short thought on what the most important point in this text is.
  2. What is the meaning of this parable?
  3. Personal Application: How do you know your life shows you have accepted the wedding invitation and have come appropriately clothed? Share your thoughts.
  4. Case Study: One of your neighbors states: “How can God love those who don’t know Him, those who don’t want Him in their lives, and those who refuse to follow His rules and hate them.” How would you respond to your neighbor?

4. Have a volunteer read John 10:17,18; Galatians 2:20

  1. Ask class members to share a thought on what the most important point in this text is.
  2. How does it make you feel that Christ came of His own free will and initiative to overcome sin in the flesh and die the sinner’s death on our behalf so we could be saved?
  3. Personal Application: What would it spiritually mean for us to lay down our lives for our friends? How much love do we have for people’s souls? Share your thoughts.
  4. Case Study: Think of one person who needs to hear a message from this week’s lesson. Tell the class what you plan to do this week to share with them.

(Truth that is not lived, that is not imparted, loses its life-giving power, its healing virtue. Its blessings can be retained only as it is shared.”Ministry of Healing, p. 148).

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Source: https://ssnet.org/blog/1-god-loves-freely-teaching-plan/

Lesson 1.God Loves Freely | 1.6 Summary | THE GOD OF LOVE AND JUSTICE | LIVING FAITH

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1.6 Summary
The Essence of Divine Love: Faithfulness, Freedom, and Invitation
The first lesson highlights the depth and breadth of God’s immeasurable and unconditional love. This love is the heart of our faith and is evident in all aspects of His actions, regardless of human worthiness or reciprocation.
1.1 Beyond Reasonable Expectations
God’s Love Surpasses All Human Notions
Despite the rebellion of the people of Israel after their liberation from Egypt (e.g., the golden calf), God remains faithful and gracious. He chooses, out of free will, to continue extending love and grace to His people, even when they do not deserve it.
1.2 Unrequited Love
God’s Love Endures Even When Not Reciprocated
God’s love remains steadfast, even when it is not reciprocated. The story of Hosea illustrates God’s unwavering faithfulness, even when His people repeatedly turn away. This love is unconditional, given voluntarily and without coercion. It calls for repentance and demonstrates that God’s love is an invitation to a relationship.
1.3 Unconditionally Granted Love
God Created the World Out of Love, Not Necessity
God did not create the world out of necessity but out of love. Creation is a voluntary expression of His generosity and His desire for fellowship with us. Even after the fall, God upheld creation in His grace and set His plan of reconciliation in motion.
1.4 Many Are Called, But Few Are Chosen
The Parable of the Wedding Banquet (Matthew 22:1–14) Clarifies God’s Invitation
The Parable of the Wedding Banquet illustrates that God’s invitation to fellowship is open to all, but not everyone accepts it. Those who are chosen are those who accept the invitation with an open heart and are willing to be transformed by God. God’s love respects human freedom, and with this freedom comes responsibility.
1.5 Crucified for Us
The Ultimate Devotion: Revealing God’s Love at the Cross
Christ’s sacrifice on the cross is the ultimate expression of God’s undeserved, unconditional love. It shows that His love knows no bounds and that He was willing to pay the highest price to heal the broken relationship between humanity and God. However, this gift requires our free choice to accept it.
Conclusion
God loves unconditionally, regardless of our mistakes, worthiness, or response. His love invites us to accept it, allow it to shape our lives, and reflect it in our relationships. This lesson encourages us to respond to God’s love with gratitude, trust, and dedication.
The lesson “God Loves Unconditionally” is not only a theological truth but also provides us with concrete guidance for our daily lives and faith. God’s love calls us to recognize, accept, and reflect it in our lives.
  1. God’s Love Beyond All Expectations (1.1)
  • In Daily Life: We can trust that God’s grace is greater than our mistakes or failures, even in difficult moments. This assurance grants us peace and courage, even in challenging situations.
  • In Faith: It invites us to approach God with an open heart and experience His faithfulness, even when we have disappointed Him.
  1. Love That Remains Despite Unfaithfulness (1.2)
  • In Daily Life: God’s example teaches us to practice patience, forgiveness, and mercy in our relationships. We can learn to love others even when they disappoint us.
  • In Faith: His faithfulness inspires us to return to Him and revive our relationship with Him during times of doubt or distance.
  1. Unconditional and Voluntary Love (1.3)
  • In Daily Life: Recognizing that our lives are a gift from God allows us to live with gratitude and deeper meaning. We are called to consciously and responsibly shape our lives.
  • In Faith: This truth encourages us to serve God out of gratitude, not out of a sense of duty. It strengthens our trust that we are accepted unconditionally.
  1. Freedom to Love (1.4)
  • In Daily Life: God’s invitation to fellowship teaches us to make conscious decisions and live in freedom. Our response to His love should be reflected in a life marked by gratitude, love, and dedication.
  • In Faith: The freedom to reciprocate God’s love reminds us that our faith is a living relationship that we must nurture daily.
  1. The Cross as Hope and Devotion (1.5)
  • In Daily Life: Christ’s sacrifice on the cross shows us that no situation is hopeless. We can find comfort and strength in difficult times because God’s love is greater than our suffering.
  • In Faith: It motivates us to live our lives in devotion to God, to serve others, and to act in the power of His love.
Conclusion
The cross is not only a symbol of our redemption but also an invitation to lead our lives daily in the light of God’s love. It reminds us that our relationship with God is based on His voluntary devotion and that we can respond to this love with trust, gratitude, and dedication. In our daily lives, this means living in the power of the cross, finding hope in difficulties, and making God’s love visible in all our actions.

The Cross Shows Us That True Love Involves Sacrifice – God’s Voluntary Devotion Invites Us to Live in Gratitude and Dedication

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/lesson-1-god-loves-freely-1-6-summary-the-god-of-love-and-justice-living-faith/

3.1.2025 – 2 Corinthians Chapter 8 | BELIEVE HIS PROPHETS

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January 3, 2024
DAILY BIBLE READING – 2 Corinthians Chapter 8
1 Moreover, brethren, we do you to wit of the grace of God bestowed on the churches of Macedonia;
2 How that in a great trial of affliction the abundance of their joy and their deep poverty abounded unto the riches of their liberality.
3 For to their power, I bear record, yea, and beyond their power they were willing of themselves;
4 Praying us with much intreaty that we would receive the gift, and take upon us the fellowship of the ministering to the saints.
5 And this they did, not as we hoped, but first gave their own selves to the Lord, and unto us by the will of God.
6 Insomuch that we desired Titus, that as he had begun, so he would also finish in you the same grace also.
7 Therefore, as ye abound in every thing, in faith, and utterance, and knowledge, and in all diligence, and in your love to us, see that ye abound in this grace also.
8 I speak not by commandment, but by occasion of the forwardness of others, and to prove the sincerity of your love.
9 For ye know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that, though he was rich, yet for your sakes he became poor, that ye through his poverty might be rich.
10 And herein I give my advice: for this is expedient for you, who have begun before, not only to do, but also to be forward a year ago.
11 Now therefore perform the doing of it; that as there was a readiness to will, so there may be a performance also out of that which ye have.
12 For if there be first a willing mind, it is accepted according to that a man hath, and not according to that he hath not.
13 For I mean not that other men be eased, and ye burdened:
14 But by an equality, that now at this time your abundance may be a supply for their want, that their abundance also may be a supply for your want: that there may be equality:
15 As it is written, He that had gathered much had nothing over; and he that had gathered little had no lack.
16 But thanks be to God, which put the same earnest care into the heart of Titus for you.
17 For indeed he accepted the exhortation; but being more forward, of his own accord he went unto you.
18 And we have sent with him the brother, whose praise is in the gospel throughout all the churches;
19 And not that only, but who was also chosen of the churches to travel with us with this grace, which is administered by us to the glory of the same Lord, and declaration of your ready mind:
20 Avoiding this, that no man should blame us in this abundance which is administered by us:
21 Providing for honest things, not only in the sight of the Lord, but also in the sight of men.
22 And we have sent with them our brother, whom we have oftentimes proved diligent in many things, but now much more diligent, upon the great confidence which I have in you.
23 Whether any do enquire of Titus, he is my partner and fellowhelper concerning you: or our brethren be enquired of, they are the messengers of the churches, and the glory of Christ.
24 Wherefore shew ye to them, and before the churches, the proof of your love, and of our boasting on your behalf.
King James Version. Public Domain

 

Commentary
Introduction
2 Corinthians Chapter 8 is an impressive example of the practical application of Christian charity. Apostle Paul speaks about the collection for the church in Jerusalem and shows how generosity and willingness to sacrifice are expressions of God’s grace in the lives of believers. He highlights the example of the churches in Macedonia, which gave generously despite great poverty. Paul emphasizes the importance of the heart’s attitude and encourages the Corinthians to put their willingness to give into action. This passage invites us to reflect on our own attitude towards generosity and our contribution to the common good.
Commentary
The Example of the Macedonians (Verses 1-5)
Paul begins by praising the Macedonian churches, whose gift was abundant and voluntary despite their poverty and affliction. Their dedication was not only financial but also a spiritual commitment to the Lord and the apostles. This example shows that true generosity does not depend on material wealth but on a heart guided by God’s will.
The Exhortation to Generosity (Verses 6-15)
Paul urges the Corinthians to remain faithful to their initial commitment and to complete the collection. He reminds them that giving is an expression of love and the grace of Christ. Jesus, who was rich, became poor so that we might become rich through his poverty—a powerful motivation for generous action. Paul emphasizes that in giving, it is not about the amount but about the willingness and the heart.
Transparency and Accountability (Verses 16-24)
Paul demonstrates the importance of integrity and accountability in managing donations. Titus and other brothers, known to be trustworthy, are entrusted with the collection. This ensures that everything is done honorably before God and people. Paul encourages the Corinthians to show their love publicly so that God’s name may be honored.
Summary
2 Corinthians Chapter 8 reminds us of the importance of generosity and communal action in the Christian faith. It is an invitation to reflect God’s grace through generous giving, regardless of our material means. At the same time, Paul underscores the importance of transparency and integrity in managing resources. The message is clear: giving is not just an obligation but an expression of our dedication to Christ and our fellow humans.

 

 

WEEKLY SPIRIT OF PROPHECY READING – Ellen White | The Desire of Ages
Chapter 83—The Walk to Emmaus
This chapter is based on Luke 24:13-33.
Read online here

 

Commentary
Introduction
The chapter “The Walk to Emmaus” depicts one of the most deeply moving events following the resurrection of Jesus, as described in Luke 24:13-33. Two disciples encounter the risen Christ on their way to Emmaus but do not recognize him immediately. This event illustrates the importance of scripture, the necessity of faith, and the transformative power of the knowledge of Jesus.
Commentary
The disciples are wandering in deep disappointment and despair, unable to comprehend the significance of the events surrounding Jesus’ crucifixion and the reports of his resurrection. Their lack of understanding and faith reflects the human need to recognize God’s plan in difficult times. Jesus approaches them unrecognized, listens to their sorrow, and begins to explain the Old Testament scriptures. This teaching conversation shows that Christ is present throughout the entire Bible and that his mission is confirmed by the prophetic predictions of the Old Testament.
The way Jesus addresses the disciples is both gentle and instructive: he lovingly rebukes them for their unbelief and opens their eyes through the scriptures. Only when the breaking of the bread occurs do they recognize him and understand the depth of his presence and mission. This encounter makes it clear that faith and understanding of scripture are the foundation for a fulfilled life in Christ. It was not a miracle, but the scriptures and fellowship that ignited their hearts.
The chapter also emphasizes the joy and urgency of conveying the message of the resurrection. The disciples leave everything behind to return to Jerusalem and proclaim the Gospel. Their encounter with Christ transforms their sorrow into hope and their doubt into certainty.
Summary
The Walk to Emmaus is a message of hope, insight, and transformation. The story shows how Jesus explains his mission through scripture, transforms doubt and grief into faith and joy, and makes the disciples witnesses of his resurrection. This event reminds us that Christ is always near, even when we do not recognize him immediately, and that through understanding the scriptures, our hearts can be ignited for the truth and joy of the Gospel. It encourages us to share this truth with zeal and courage.

 

 

WEEKLY SPIRIT OF PROPHECY READING – Ellen White | The Desire of Ages
Chapter 84—“Peace Be Unto You”
This chapter is based on Luke 24:33-48; John 20:19-29.
Read online here

 

Commentary
Introduction
The chapter “Peace be with you!” describes the events following the resurrection of Jesus, where He appears to the disciples, strengthens their faith, and brings them peace. It is based on the accounts in Luke 24:33-48 and John 20:19-29. These encounters reveal the deep mercy and patience of Jesus towards His disciples, who, despite His repeated teachings, struggled to comprehend His resurrection.
Commentary
The appearances of Jesus after His resurrection are marked by a message of peace, forgiveness, and new life. Jesus unexpectedly enters the midst of the disciples and greets them with the words “Peace be with you!” This greeting reflects the core message of the Gospel: reconciliation with God and inner peace despite external uncertainty. By showing them His pierced hands and feet, He strengthens their faith by answering doubt with the reality of His resurrection.
A key message of this chapter is that Jesus approaches the doubters with love and patience, as in the case of Thomas. Thomas, who reacts skeptically to the reports of the others, receives exactly the evidence he demands from Jesus. However, Jesus gently admonishes that greater blessings await those who believe without seeing. This is an invitation to trust, even when not all questions are answered.
Furthermore, the chapter emphasizes the importance of the Holy Spirit, which Jesus breathes into the disciples to prepare them for their mission. Without the Spirit of God, they are unable to preach the forgiveness of sins and spread the Gospel to the world. The gift of the Holy Spirit is essential to continue Christ’s work.
Summary
The chapter “Peace be with you!” demonstrates Jesus’ loving manner in renewing the faith of His disciples, dispelling their doubts, and preparing them for their mission. His words and actions after the resurrection call for finding peace and faith, even when external evidence is lacking. The disciples were equipped with the truth of Jesus’ life, death, and resurrection and sent out to share this message with the world. This chapter reminds us that Jesus meets every doubt with patience and love and that the Holy Spirit is the key to serving in His name.

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/3-1-2025-2-corinthians-chapter-8-believe-his-prophets/

No More Resolutions or Regrets

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happy birthday greeting card on brown wooden table

In 1969, Frank Sinatra recorded and released a song titled “My Way.”
The song starts out

So now, the end is near
And so I face the final curtain
My friend, I’ll say it clear
I’ll state my case, of which I’m certain
I’ve lived a life that’s full
I traveled each and every highway
And more, much more than this
I did it my way
,,,
Regrets, I’ve had a few
But then again, too few to mention
I did what I had to do
And saw it through without exemption
I planned each charted course
Each careful step along the byway
And more, much more than this
I did it my way.

(English Words by Paul Anka. Original words of the French song “Comme d’habitude,” by Claude Francois, Gilles Thibaut, Jacques Revaux)

“The more things change, the more they remain the same.”  If you want to live life your way you will probably have more than a few regrets in the end. Living life independent of God results in a life of pain and sorrow. We see the results of it everywhere we look, even in our own lives.

Life is full of decisions and choices, and when we make the wrong ones we usually have regrets. I believe that the Holy Spirit brings conviction in our regret to lead us to repentance, even down to our final breath.

It’s been said that ” the fool learns from his mistakes. The wise man learns from the mistakes of others.” But I believe that  the fool never learns. The wise men learns from their mistakes. The genius learns from the mistakes of others.

The goal of life is to live it for Jesus and have as few regrets as possible. Our regrets shouldn’t define us, but refine us. Confess them to Jesus and receive His mercy, pardon, and power to overcome them and put them behind us.

At the end of my life, I would hope that  I had won many souls to God’s Kingdom,  that I had been a good son, brother, husband, father, and uncle.  I would regret if I had only marginally succeeded in those areas. 

If I have to die before Jesus returns, I want to die faithful, with my boots on, having left it all on the battlefield for my Savior and Lord. I want to hear “Well done, good and faithful servant.” How about you?

In this  new year may we let Jesus redeem last year’s regrets into confirmations of His righteousness and grace, for His glory. May we quit making promises – or even New Year’s  Resolutions – which are like “ropes of sand,” impossible for us to keep. Instead may we start believing and claiming  His promises, which are impossible for Him to break. If we do this we will have no more regrets or resolutions. I want to be better through  the indwelling power and Grace of God, because I know that I can’t do it on my own. He deserves better.

people holding american flag during daytimeNo, dear brothers and sisters, I have not achieved it, but I focus on this one thing: Forgetting the past and looking forward to what lies ahead, 14 I press on to reach the end of the race and receive the heavenly prize for which God, through Christ Jesus, is calling us. (Philippians 3:13-14 NLT)

Let’s keep pressing on in Jesus’ name! Let’s run the race this year to win it. May we experience a more abundant and fulfilling new year, as day by day we draw closer to the finish line and the return of our Lord. Amen?

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Source: https://ssnet.org/blog/no-more-resolutionss-or-regrets/

How Ernesto Reached 200 with the Gospel

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Uncover the powerful impact of personal dedication in sharing faith as Rose and Ernesto reach hundreds with the gospel. This content highlights the transformative power of their mission and the changes it sparked. Like, subscribe, and share your insights in the comments! #GospelMission #CommunityImpact #FaithInAction #awr #adventistworldradio #short Source: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xIoniWns-qo

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