Closer To Heaven
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Hoy empezamos con una sesión de «orientación» para los delegados a cargo de Hensley Moorooven. Buenos principios sólidos, pero este es el cuarto día del evento, así que hay que preguntarse por qué esto no se hizo a primera hora. Hensley cita este interesante pasaje del Manual de la Iglesia: “No está permitido que las […] Source: https://atoday.org/domingo-6-de-julio-manual-de-la-iglesia-politica-y-reglamentos-y-nominaciones/
“E Gesù diceva: ‘Padre perdona loro perché non sanno quello che fanno’”. 📖 Luca 23:34
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💌 Apri la porta del tuo cuore
🗣 Speaker: Valentina Piazza Source: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JkISJhwUl8s
[5:20 PM CDT] Los delegados aprueban por amplio mayoría el Informe nº 5 de la Comisión de Nombramientos, que confirma a J Raymond Wahlen II como subtesorero y nombra a los siguientes seis tesoreros adjuntos de la Asociación General: Sabrina C DeSouza, Josue Pierre, Timothy H Aka, German A Lust, Richard T Stephenson y Dr. […] Source: https://atoday.org/en-directo-actualizaciones-de-la-cuarta-jornada-de-la-ag-2025-en-st-louis/
Magyarosi has served as the Inter-European Division’s executive secretary since 2015. He was first elected to a leadership position in the regional Adventist church in South Transylvania (Romania) in 2001, heading the Sabbath School Department. In… Source: https://adventist.news/news/barna-magyarosi-elected-president-of-the-inter-european-division
Day Five of the 62nd General Conference (GC) Session closed with an evening worship service hosted by Hope Channel International highlighting the story of a woman named Alice from Brazil. Alice’s story is a part of the series Stories of Hope … Source: https://adventist.news/news/disciple-making-stories-highlighted-at-gc-session-day-5-evening-worship
Crosswalk is a church community that has taken off with Millennial and Gen Z generations where people can explore faith honestly, ask real questions, and grow in their relationship with God at their own pace. They have campuses throughout the United States, as well as a handful of communities internationally as well. Their main motto […] Source: https://atoday.org/adventinnovate-crosswalk/
Due to a constricted timeline, both Richard E. McEdward , newly elected GC secretary, and Paul H. Douglas , reelected GC treasurer, were unable to speak with the media on Sunday, July 6, 2025. Instead, they joined today’s press conference to… Source: https://adventist.news/news/newly-elected-secretary-and-reelected-treasurer-speak-with-the-press-location-united-states
Lesson 2: The Burning Bush
2.3 The Name of the LORD
“I Am Who I Am” – God’s Name as a Revelation of His Presence………………………………………………………………….
IntroductionNames reveal much about us—especially in the biblical context. A name was not merely a label but carried meaning, history, and calling. When Moses asks God to name Himself, God reveals Himself in an unprecedented way. The answer God gives—“I AM WHO I AM”—is not only profound but also deeply comforting. It shows us that God is present, not just in theory, but in the reality of our lives. He is not far off—He is here with us, now.
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Bible Study: Exodus 3:13–22 – The Name of the LORD
1. Historical and Narrative ContextMoses is in the wilderness of Midian, tending his father-in-law’s sheep and confronting his past. Once a prince at Pharaoh’s court, then a fugitive turned simple shepherd—now God appears to him in the burning bush. This scene marks one of the most dramatic turning points in all of Scripture.
God calls Moses to lead Israel out of Egypt. But Moses has doubts, fears, and questions. In verse 13 he asks:
“When I come to the Israelites and say to them, ‘The God of your fathers has sent me to you,’ and they ask me, ‘What is his name?’—what shall I say to them?”
2. The Significance of the Question: “What is His Name?” (v. 13)This question carries several layers:
a) Representation
Moses knows he does not act by his own authority. The people need a God they can relate to—not an unknown spirit or a new religious idea. They must know: Who is sending you? Who stands behind this commission?
b) Revelation
In the ancient world, a name was inseparable from the being of the person. To know someone’s name was to have access to their character and power. Moses asks God not just for a label but for self-disclosure.
c) Inspiring Trust
After centuries in Egypt, Israel’s faith has grown weak. Idol worship was widespread, even among them. They knew the patriarchs’ stories, but they needed a God who would reveal Himself anew—a trustworthy God.
3. God’s Answer: “I AM WHO I AM” (v. 14)The Hebrew phrase is “Ehyeh Asher Ehyeh,” literally:
“I AM WHO I AM”
“I WILL BE WHAT I WILL BE”
“I AM THE ONE WHO EXISTS”
“I AM THE ONE WHO PROVES FAITHFUL”
a) Grammatical Background
The verb ehyeh comes from hayah, “to be, become, exist.” It is both timeless and dynamic—not static like “I was” or “I am,” but open and future-oriented:
“I am the One who will be what you need.”
b) Theological Depth
God does not say, “I am Love” or “I am Life,” but “I AM.” This implies:
Self-Existence: God exists from Himself—no beginning, no end.
Faithfulness: He remains the same—always.
Presence: God is here now—not just in the past or future.
Activity: God acts—in history, in relationship, in our lives.
c) Connection to “Yahweh”
In verse 15 God names Himself Yahweh (LORD in most English Bibles), the third-person singular of the same verb “to be”—“He is”—and that becomes God’s personal name in the Old Testament. “Yahweh” appears over 6,800 times in Hebrew Scripture and is central to Israel’s understanding of God.
4. Exodus 6:3 in Context“I appeared to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob as God Almighty, but by my name ‘Yahweh’ I did not make myself fully known to them.”
This does not mean the name was unknown before (see Gen. 4:26; 12:8), but that its full meaning—God’s faithful, near presence in covenant—was only unveiled in the context of Israel’s deliverance from Egypt.
5. The Covenant – Yahweh, the Near GodMoses’ calling is not merely a mission—it expresses God’s covenant love:
He sees the suffering of His people (Exod. 3:7).
He remembers His covenant with Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob (3:6).
He acts out of faithfulness, not because of Israel’s merit.
The name “Yahweh” becomes a symbol of God’s deeds in history—full of patience, love, mercy, and justice.
6. The Name as Commission“This is my name forever, the name you shall call me from generation to generation.” (Exod. 3:15)
God’s name is not meant to be hidden but proclaimed. Israel is to call upon His name, remember it, and pass it on to future generations.
7. New Testament FulfillmentIn the New Testament, the “I AM” name finds fulfillment in Jesus:
“Before Abraham was born, I am.” (John 8:58)
“I am the way, the truth, and the life.”
“I am the light of the world… I am the door… I am the good shepherd… I am the resurrection and the life.”
Jesus consciously adopts the “I AM” title, revealing Himself as Yahweh made flesh—present and accessible.
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Answers to the Questions
Question 1: Why did Moses want to know God’s name? What does God’s name mean?Moses sought God’s name because he knew that leading Israel out of Egypt would provoke resistance and doubt. The people needed more than a nameless deity—they needed the familiar, faithful God who introduces Himself personally. By asking the name, Moses ultimately asks, “Who are You, God? Can I trust You?”
God’s answer shows:
He is unchanging, eternal, and reliable.
He is personal, merciful, and present.
He is not a distant deity but a covenant-keeping God.
His name is not merely a title but a revelation of His very being: “I am with you. Always. And I act.”
Question 2: In what way have you experienced the nearness and intimacy of Yahweh in your life, which He offers to all who submit to Him?Example personal answer:
I have felt God’s nearness most in times of uncertainty—when making tough decisions or facing crisis. It wasn’t always an audible voice but a deep inner assurance that He was there, that His way was good even when I didn’t understand it. His presence showed up in timely Scriptures, answered prayers, and through people who helped me. In those moments I realized: Yahweh is not just “God”—He is my God.
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Spiritual PrinciplesGod’s name is His promise: He is the same—yesterday, today, and forever.
God’s presence is real—for all who seek Him.
Yahweh acts in faithfulness and grace—even when we doubt.
God’s identity is not abstract but relational.
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Application for Daily LifeCall on God’s name—not as empty words, but as a conscious confession: “You are with me.”
Trust His presence when the path is unclear. Like Moses, say: “If You do not go with us, we will not go.”
Speak His name when others seek direction—share how you have experienced God’s nearness.
Live as someone who knows: God is not distant—but here, right now.
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ConclusionGod calls Himself “I AM” because He is present, faithful, and personal. He invites us into a relationship of trust, even when the way is hard. Moses experienced this—and we may experience it today as well.
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Thought of the Day“When I don’t know what comes next, I at least know who walks with me.”
Yahweh is not the God of distance but the God who says, I am with you.
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Illustration – “I Am with You—even When You Don’t Feel It”
Chapter 1: The AbyssLina stood by the window, staring into the night. Neon lights reflected on wet streets. Traffic roared below. But inside, she was silent. Too silent.
For months she’d felt like a ghost in her own life. Work, studies, chores played on like an empty movie. A year ago, her mother died of cancer. Since then, everything felt different. Prayers went unanswered. Bible verses sounded hollow. The God who calls Himself “I AM” felt more like “I was”—and now you’re alone.
At twenty-six, Lina was a theology student in her fourth semester. Yes, she knew the doctrines: God is faithful, God is present, God acts. But what use was that if He never showed up?
That evening she knelt for the first time in weeks—not out of discipline but despair.
“Lord, if You really are, then… then tell me: Who are You? Are You truly Yahweh? Or just a concept? I don’t know anymore.”
Silence.
Chapter 2: The Burning Bush of PresenceThe next day at university, she sat in her Hebrew class as Professor Neumann unpacked Exodus 3: “Ehyeh Asher Ehyeh—‘I AM WHO I AM.’”
He explained:
“Here God doesn’t say what He does but who He is. Not ‘I am your healer’ or ‘I am your judge,’ but simply: I AM here—whether you believe or doubt, see or don’t see.”
Those words pierced Lina’s heart. It was as though God spoke to her through that dry professor.
Chapter 3: The Name in the HospitalA few days later, Lina got news: her father was in the ER—heart trouble. She rushed to the hospital, bracing for what might come.
There she saw an elderly woman weeping in the hallway, ignored by everyone. Lina felt compelled to approach her.
“Can I help?” she asked gently.
The woman, Maria, told her son had been in a motorcycle accident and was in surgery. She asked Lina to pray with her.
“I’m not sure if I…” Lina began. But Maria took her hand.
Lina prayed, not eloquent or long, just honest:
“Lord, You say You are. Then be here now. Be with Maria. Be with her son. Be with me.”
Moments later Maria whispered,
“You know… I read this morning in my Bible: ‘I will be what I will be.’ I didn’t understand until now.”
Chapter 4: I AM—even in PainLina’s father recovered. The following weeks were filled with care, conversations, rebuilding. God didn’t instantly change the situation—but something changed in Lina. She began to pray again—not because she felt it, but because she knew: “He is.”
She wrote her term paper on Exodus 3 and wept, not out of sorrow, but out of comfort.
“I AM WHO I AM” now meant to her:
I am with you when you understand nothing.
I am here when you can’t believe anymore.
I am near when you’ve lost yourself.
Chapter 5: Discovering the NameSix months later, Lina stood before her congregation for the first time. Her topic: “Who Is God?”
She read Exodus 3 aloud and then said:
“I once thought the name Yahweh was merely a theological concept. Then a pious myth. Today I know: this name is my salvation.
He is not only the God of miracles.
He is not only the God who always heals.
But He is the God who is present—in tears, in midnight nights, in doubts.
I have not seen Him, yet He was there.
I have not felt Him, yet He was faithful.
He did not speak loudly, yet His name kept its promise:
‘I AM.’”
The congregation was silent; some wept. And Lina knew: God had not forgotten her name either.
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Application of the StoryThis story shows what the name “I AM” means in everyday life:
Not always spectacular.
But always faithful.
Not always visible.
But always present.
Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/lesson-2-the-burning-bush-2-3-the-name-of-the-lord-exodus-living-faith/
July 8, 2025
DAILY BIBLE READING
Exodus 33 – “Lord, show me Your glory!”
How God’s Presence Becomes Our Greatest Hope and Deepest Longing══════════════════════════════════════════════
Bible Text – Exodus 33 (KJV)1 And the Lord said unto Moses, Depart, and go up hence, thou and the people which thou hast brought up out of the land of Egypt, unto the land which I sware unto Abraham, to Isaac, and to Jacob, saying, Unto thy seed will I give it:
2 And I will send an angel before thee; and I will drive out the Canaanite, the Amorite, and the Hittite, and the Perizzite, the Hivite, and the Jebusite:
3 Unto a land flowing with milk and honey: for I will not go up in the midst of thee; for thou art a stiffnecked people: lest I consume thee in the way.
4 And when the people heard these evil tidings, they mourned: and no man did put on him his ornaments.
5 For the Lord had said unto Moses, Say unto the children of Israel, Ye are a stiffnecked people: I will come up into the midst of thee in a moment, and consume thee: therefore now put off thy ornaments from thee, that I may know what to do unto thee.
6 And the children of Israel stripped themselves of their ornaments by the mount Horeb.
7 And Moses took the tabernacle, and pitched it without the camp, afar off from the camp, and called it the Tabernacle of the congregation. And it came to pass, that every one which sought the Lord went out unto the tabernacle of the congregation, which was without the camp.
8 And it came to pass, when Moses went out unto the tabernacle, that all the people rose up, and stood every man at his tent door, and looked after Moses, until he was gone into the tabernacle.
9 And it came to pass, as Moses entered into the tabernacle, the cloudy pillar descended, and stood at the door of the tabernacle, and the Lord talked with Moses.
10 And all the people saw the cloudy pillar stand at the tabernacle door: and all the people rose up and worshipped, every man in his tent door.
11 And the Lord spake unto Moses face to face, as a man speaketh unto his friend. And he turned again into the camp: but his servant Joshua, the son of Nun, a young man, departed not out of the tabernacle.
12 And Moses said unto the Lord, See, thou sayest unto me, Bring up this people: and thou hast not let me know whom thou wilt send with me. Yet thou hast said, I know thee by name, and thou hast also found grace in my sight.
13 Now therefore, I pray thee, if I have found grace in thy sight, shew me now thy way, that I may know thee, that I may find grace in thy sight: and consider that this nation is thy people.
14 And he said, My presence shall go with thee, and I will give thee rest.
15 And he said unto him, If thy presence go not with me, carry us not up hence.
16 For wherein shall it be known here that I and thy people have found grace in thy sight? is it not in that thou goest with us? so shall we be separated, I and thy people, from all the people that are upon the face of the earth.
17 And the Lord said unto Moses, I will do this thing also that thou hast spoken: for thou hast found grace in my sight, and I know thee by name.
18 And he said, I beseech thee, shew me thy glory.
19 And he said, I will make all my goodness pass before thee, and I will proclaim the name of the Lord before thee; and will be gracious to whom I will be gracious, and will shew mercy on whom I will shew mercy.
20 And he said, Thou canst not see my face: for there shall no man see me, and live.
21 And the Lord said, Behold, there is a place by me, and thou shalt stand upon a rock:
22 And it shall come to pass, while my glory passeth by, that I will put thee in a clift of the rock, and will cover thee with my hand while I pass by:
23 And I will take away mine hand, and thou shalt see my back parts: but my face shall not be seen.
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IntroductionWhat do you do when you don’t know what comes next—and you wonder if God is still with you? In Exodus 33 we witness a holy moment. The people of Israel are at their lowest point: disobedient, stubborn, humiliated. Yet in the midst of it, Moses stands up as intercessor, friend of God—and makes one of the deepest petitions in all Scripture:
“Let me see Your glory.”
This scene reveals not only God’s holiness but also Moses’ heart—and God’s grace. It’s no longer just about the Promised Land, but about something far deeper: God’s presence.
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CommentaryGod announces that He will no longer go with them personally. An angel will lead them—but God Himself will stay apart, because they are a “stiff-necked people.”
This separation shatters the community. They mourn and remove their jewelry—a sign of humility and repentance. Here we see:
Sin separates.
True repentance recognizes God’s holiness.
Moses sets up the tabernacle tent outside the camp—a designated place to meet God. Whoever wants to inquire of the Lord must go out there.
There, God speaks with Moses “face to face, as one speaks with a friend.” An intimate, holy moment.
Yet a tension remains: Moses can hear and experience God, but cannot yet see Him.
Moses intercedes:
He reminds God of His promises.
He doesn’t ask for protection, power, or blessing—but for God’s presence:
“If Your presence does not go with us, do not bring us up from here.” (v. 15)
Moses realizes: what good is the Promised Land if God is not with them? It isn’t the place, but God’s presence that makes it holy.
Moses dares to make a bold request:
“Show me Your glory.”
God’s response is profound:
His goodness will pass before Moses.
He will proclaim His name—revealing His character.
Moses cannot see His face (for no one can see God’s full glory and live), but God will shelter him in a cleft of the rock and cover him with His hand until He passes by, allowing Moses to see His “back.”
God gives Moses as much as he can bear—in love and mercy.
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SummaryExodus 33 teaches us about:
The tension between God’s holiness and His grace
True repentance and the longing for God’s presence
Moses’ courageous intercession and deep desire for intimacy with God
God’s willingness to reveal Himself to humanity—as far as we can withstand
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Message for Us Today
In an age of spiritual coldness, confusion, and superficiality, God calls us not first into the “Promised Land,” but into the closeness of His presence.
We need:
Not just God’s blessing—but His presence.
Not just external guidance—but inner fellowship.
Not just words about God—but encounter with Him.
Like Moses, we can pray:
“Lord, if You do not go with us, we will not go on.”
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Reflection QuestionsWhat are you seeking from God?
– A solution? A miracle? A way out?
Or will you dare today to ask:
“Show me Your glory”?
– Not to know more about Him, but to have more of Him?
Perhaps, like Moses, you will not see everything—but you will see enough to keep moving forward in trust, obedience, and the light of His character.
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July 06 – 12, 2025 WEEKLY SPIRIT OF PROPHECY READING Ellen G. White │ Patriarchs and Prophets – Chapter 15 The Marriage of Isaac Read online here══════════════════════════════════════════════
IntroductionIn a world where personal freedom is often placed above wisdom and obedience, the story of Isaac’s marriage stands out as a radiant counterexample. It shows how God Himself takes the lead in one of life’s most important decisions: the choice of a spouse. Abraham, the father of faith, does not leave this matter to chance or mere emotion but trusts in divine guidance — and Isaac trusts him.
This event is not just a family story, but a powerful lesson about obedience, character formation, true love, and God’s blessing.
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Commentary
1. The Spiritual Significance of MarriageIsaac’s marriage was not just a personal matter — it had implications for God’s plan for humanity. Isaac was the bearer of the promise; from his line would come the chosen people and, ultimately, the Messiah. A marriage with a Canaanite woman would have endangered that spiritual mission, as these peoples were deeply immersed in idolatry.
Key thought: Marriage is a spiritual covenant — it shapes generations.
2. Abraham’s Responsibility as a FatherAlthough old, Abraham takes full responsibility for Isaac’s marriage with great foresight. He sends Eliezer, his faithful servant, with a clear mission: the wife must come from their believing relatives — and Isaac must not travel to Mesopotamia.
Abraham’s trust in God’s guidance runs deep. He says with conviction:
“The Lord will send His angel before you.” (Genesis 24:7)
Key thought: Parental care and spiritual guidance are irreplaceable — especially in matters of the heart.
3. Eliezer’s Spiritual AttitudeEliezer does more than just set out — he prays. At the well, he asks God for a sign of kindness and helpfulness — traits fitting for a God-fearing life. Rebekah’s response to his simple request becomes the answer to his prayer.
Key thought: Those who pray sincerely can recognize God’s guidance — even in everyday encounters.
4. Rebekah’s Decision – Free and Faithful ConsentDespite all the preparation, Rebekah’s own will is respected. When asked if she is willing to leave her homeland, she responds freely and confidently:
“Yes, I will go.” (Genesis 24:58)
Key thought: God leads — but He never forces. Obedience is always voluntary.
5. The Beginning of a Blessed MarriageIsaac’s gentle character and upbringing in the fear of God prepare him for a blessed marriage. Rebekah becomes his wife, and the Bible says:
“He loved her… and was comforted after his mother’s death.” (Genesis 24:67)
Key thought: True love grows in the soil of faith, loyalty, and mutual dedication to God.
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SummaryIsaac’s marriage was the result of divine guidance, wise care, and voluntary consent.
Abraham, Eliezer, Rebekah, and Isaac all acted in faith, in prayer, and in obedience.
This marriage became a symbol of domestic happiness and a life under God’s blessing.
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Message for Us TodayToday, the choice of a life partner is often made emotionally and independently of God’s standards. The story of Isaac and Rebekah offers a different path:
Marriage is not a private adventure, but a sacred covenant in God’s presence.
Parents and spiritual mentors have an important role — their counsel is not a burden, but a protection.
Prayer and spiritual maturity matter more than appearances or fleeting emotions.
Those who seek God’s guidance will discover that He has prepared what the heart longs for.
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Reflection QuestionAre you willing to let God lead in your most important life decisions — even in love?
Do you see marriage as a spiritual calling or just a romantic ideal?
Parents: Are you shaping your children’s character with love and example — or just letting them drift?
Young people: Do you see your parents as spiritual guides — or just critics?
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July 06 – 12, 2025 WEEKLY SPIRIT OF PROPHECY READING Ellen G. White │ Patriarchs and Prophets – Chapter 16 Jacob and Esau Read online here IntroductionIn Chapter 16 of Patriarchs and Prophets, we meet the twins Jacob and Esau — two brothers whose character and way of life could hardly be more different. Their rivalry is not centered on worldly ambition but on one of the most essential questions of the life of faith: How much does the spiritual mean to us — how valuable is God’s promise? It is a story about priorities, decisions, and their lifelong consequences.
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Commentary1. Two Brothers – Two Life Attitudes
Jacob is reflective, future-oriented, spiritually inclined. Esau is impulsive, adventurous, focused on the here and now. Even in the womb, God announces that the older will serve the younger. While Jacob values the birthright as a spiritual inheritance, Esau nearly mocks it and carelessly sells it for a meal.
It involved more than material possessions — it meant spiritual leadership, priestly responsibility, and the privilege of being in the line through which the Redeemer would come. This right carried great spiritual dignity — but also responsibility. Esau was indifferent to this. Jacob, by contrast, deeply desired it — but unfortunately tried to obtain it by deceit.
Knowing God’s promise, Rebekah does not wait on His timing but uses human scheming. Jacob obeys, but with a troubled conscience. The deception achieves the desired blessing — but at a high cost: family division, flight, decades of separation.
Although Isaac favored Esau, he recognized after the deception that God’s will had prevailed — and he affirmed the blessing upon Jacob. Human weakness is overridden by divine providence.
The tragic moment: Esau, who had long despised the spiritual blessing, now seeks it back with tears — too late. What moves him is not true repentance, but personal loss. His story becomes a warning to all who trade the eternal for the temporary.
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SummaryJacob and Esau represent two attitudes toward God: spiritual striving versus carnal desire. While Jacob sought the right thing the wrong way, Esau rejected the right thing altogether. God’s plan is fulfilled despite human failure — but not without painful consequences.
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Message for Us TodayHow much do we value God’s promises?
In a world full of distractions, offers, and instant gratification, it is easy to be like Esau — to trade the eternal for the immediate — whether through compromise in our faith or giving up spiritual principles for social or personal “peace.”
This story warns us: spiritual blessings are no game. God’s gifts are holy. When we understand their value, we will neither treat them carelessly nor try to obtain them through improper means. God fulfills His promises — but in His way, in His time, through those who trust Him.
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Reflection ThoughtWhat decision I make today could impact my eternity?
Am I — like Esau — possibly trading the eternal for the immediate?
Do I trust God to uphold His promise without my interference — or, like Rebekah, am I tempted to “help Him out”?
Lord, teach me not to misuse Your gifts — and help me to value spiritual things above temporary gain.
Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/08-07-2025-exodus-chapter-33-believe-his-prophets/
08.07.2025
Christ-like in Your Thinking
Let the Mind of Jesus Transform Your Thoughts──────────────── 
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Bible Text“Have this mind among yourselves, which is yours in Christ Jesus.”
– Philippians 2:5
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IntroductionWhat if today you saw everything through Jesus’ eyes? What if you viewed the people around you with His heart, His mercy, and His humility?
In Philippians 2:5, Paul challenges us to think like Jesus—not just to believe like Him, not only to act like Him, but to think like Him. That changes everything—from your decisions to how you relate to friends, foes, and yourself.
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Devotional : What Does It Mean to Think Like Christ?Jesus’ mindset was marked by:
Humility: Though He was God, He humbled Himself and became human. (Phil. 2:6–7)
Service: He did not come to be served, but to serve. (Mark 10:45)
Obedience: He obeyed the Father’s will even to the point of death on a cross. (Phil. 2:8)
“Jesus did not flaunt His divine nature, but lived among people as one of them. He showed that true greatness is found in service.” – Ellen G. White, The Desire of Ages, p. 645
This way of thinking often runs counter to the world’s values: power equals strength, popularity equals significance, achievement equals success. Jesus showed that true greatness lies in love, devotion, and sacrifice.
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Story – “The Empty Seat”Jonas was sixteen—athletic, creative, a team player—and very concerned with what others thought of him. At his school, being “cool” meant wearing the right brands, using sarcastic humor, and never showing weakness.
Recently, a new student named Sami had joined their class. Quiet, reserved, speaking with an accent. Many whispered, “He’s just a refugee—he won’t understand anyway.” No one spoke to him. In group work, he was always overlooked. Jonas—though he considered himself a “nice Christian”—ignored him too.
One day in religion class, the teacher read Philippians 2:5:
“Have this mind among yourselves, which is yours in Christ Jesus.”
Then she asked,
“What do you think—how would Jesus act in your class? Who would sit beside the quiet student? Whom would He invite in?”
Her question hit Jonas like a lightning bolt. Later, alone on the bus, he thought: Jesus—the King of the universe—had humbled Himself, become human, sat with outcasts, the sick, the foreign, the weak. And he, Jonas, who wanted to be “good,” didn’t even have the courage to smile at someone like Sami?
The next day, it was time for group work again. The seat next to Sami was, as always, empty. Jonas felt an inner resistance. What would the others think? What if it was embarrassing?
But then he remembered his teacher’s words: “What would Jesus do?”
He walked over to Sami, sat down beside him, and said,
“Hey, want to work together? I’m Jonas.”
Sami looked up—first surprised, then shyly smiling. “Sure.”
In the days that followed, a genuine friendship grew. Jonas learned that Sami had lost his home in the war as a child. He had seen things no one should ever see—but he had never lost hope.
Over time, other classmates began to show interest in Sami too. Jonas’s small step—a simple empty seat filled—became the beginning of change, not only in Sami but in the whole class.
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What Does This Story Teach Us?To think like Christ means not just having nice thoughts. It means:
Being humble where others are proud.
Reaching out to those who are forgotten.
Daring to make a difference—even if it costs you something.
“Man looks on the outward appearance, but the Lord looks on the heart.” (1 Samuel 16:7)
“The life of Christ was marked by unobtrusive kindness. His attention was on the overlooked, His love on the outcasts.” – Ellen G. White
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Reflection – What Does This Mean for You?Don’t think of yourself first—ask, How can I help someone today?
Don’t judge by appearances—see with Jesus’ eyes.
Don’t follow the crowd blindly—follow the Spirit of Christ.
Ask yourself: Would Jesus be proud of my words, thoughts, and actions?
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Reflections for TodayReflection: Are your thoughts today self-centered or Christ-centered?
Challenge: Do one thing today you might normally avoid—out of love, humility, or compassion.
Prayer: Ask God to transform your heart and mind so you become more like Jesus.
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PrayerDear Father in Heaven,
Thank You for the example of Your Son. Help me to shape my thoughts, desires, and perspective on others as Jesus has shown us.
I ask You: Give me courage to be kind, even when it’s hard. Give me love for those who are different. Teach me not to place myself above others.
Today, I want to see with Your eyes, feel with Your heart, and act with Your Spirit.
In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/08-07-25-christ-like-in-your-thinking-heart-anchor-youth-devotional/
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