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S.A.N.S. Episode 195: Nothing Comes Close

Christine D’Clario is a worship leader who ministers to a church with a large Spanish speaking audience. This singer and songwriter from Yonkers, New York first received notoriety in 2005 following the release of her debut album. I discovered Christine’s music recently after a search on You Tube, who started her own You Tube Channel back in 2006.

If I [can] speak in the tongues of men and [even] of angels, but have not love (that reasoning, intentional, spiritual devotion such [a]as is inspired by God’s love for and in us), I am only a noisy gong or a clanging cymbal. And if I have prophetic powers ([b]the gift of interpreting the divine will and purpose), and understand all the secret truths and mysteries and possess all knowledge, and if I have [sufficient] faith so that I can remove mountains, but have not love (God’s love in me) I am nothing (a useless nobody), 1 Corinthians 13:1-2.

The lyrics of Nothing Comes Close reminds me of this passage above. The apostle Paul wrote to the Church at Corinth who were so focused on spiritual gifts that the love of Jesus was overlooked. Therefore, you may be blessed, gifted and talented, but without living out God’s love daily these special qualities are wasted. As you listen to today’s song, remember that nothing comes close to God’s love.

by Jay Mankus

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I Can Handle It… Not!

Human nature makes individuals believe that they can handle most things thrown their way.  Thus, don’t be surprised when you hear a young person proclaim, “I’ve got this!”  However, history leaves a chapter written by the apostle Paul to guard people against becoming over confident.

These things happened to them as examples and were written down as warnings for us, on whom the culmination of the ages has come.  So, if you think you are standing firm, be careful that you don’t fall! – 1 Corinthians 10:11-12.

Unfortunately, Samson, one of the strongest to ever walk the face of the earth did not have access to this letter.  Subsequently, he often toyed with people, including his wife Delilah.  Caught in a moment of weakness, Samson was worn down by the persistence of his wife.  Trusting in his own strength, Samson’s mind gave in, revealing the secret of his power.

With such nagging she prodded him day after day until he was sick to death of it, Judges 16:16.

Today, gifted and talented continue to forgo trusting in the Lord.  Instead, most are self-reliant, experiencing more success than failure.  Thus, a whisper within urges many to believe “I can handle this.”  Despite this sense of security, don’t allow over confidence blind your perspective.  Instead, follow in the footsteps of Solomon by leaning on God’s understanding whatever the circumstance that you face.

by Jay Mankus

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