Tag Archives: power of God

The Redemptive One

Posted on December 26, 2023 by expressyourself4him

Nicknames have a way of taking on their own identity. Depending upon the person and setting in which this nickname was derived, this can bring a new dimension to someone’s personality. As for Moses, God introduces Himself as El-Shaddai. While I have heard Michael Card’s classic song on numerous occasions, I never realized that this name refers to God as the Redemptive One.

I appeared to Abraham, to Isaac, and to Jacob as God Almighty [El-Shaddai], but by My [a]name the Lord [Yahweh—the redemptive name of God] I did not make Myself known to them [in acts and great miracles], Exodus 6:3.

Over the course of the Old Testament, followers of God mention more than 20 distinct names when addressing this Supreme Being. Twelve of these reflect personalities of God in the form of Jehovah. Each title distinguishes the abilities, nature and power of God. In the passage above, God introduces Himself to Moses as the Redemptive One.

For God so greatly loved and dearly prized the world that He [even] gave up His only begotten ([d]unique) Son, so that whoever believes in (trusts in, clings to, relies on) Him shall not perish (come to destruction, be lost) but have eternal (everlasting) life. 17 For God did not send the Son into the world in order to judge (to reject, to condemn, to pass sentence on) the world, but that the world might find salvation and be made safe and sound through Him, John 3:16-17.

Thousands of years later, Jesus meets with a first century Pharisee named Nicodemus. This religious leader wanted to know more about Jesus’ teaching of being born again. After a touch of sarcasm from Nicodemus in John 3:1-4, Jesus privately reveals God’s plan of salvation. John 15:12-13 and Romans 5:7-8 both highlight the spiritual powers of the Redemptive One.

by Jay Mankus

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On Again Off Again

Posted on March 18, 2015 by expressyourself4him

The origin of getting cold feet has three different links to history.  The first derives from an Italian play written in 1605 entitled Volpone.  The context of Ben Johnson’s words, “to have cold on one’s feet,” refers to having no money.  Two centuries later, a German novel uses a similar expression when speaking of gamblers who have cold feet as their money runs out.  Finally, Stephen Crane’s piece, Maggie: A Child on the Streets from 1894 has a modern understanding as cold feet is in reference to making tough decisions.

Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen.- Hebrews 11:1

Today, On Again Off Again could be the title of the latest Reality TV Show as people change their minds on whether or not to get married.  However, this phrase is used by sports fans who jump on and off their favorite team’s bandwagon.  Whenever expectations of a relationship or viewing interest let you down, faith to continue your vested interest wanes.  Thus, the words On Again Off Again become a self-fulfilled prophecy.

That your faith might not rest in the wisdom of men but in the power of God. – 1 Corinthians 2:5

Unfortunately, these words often describe a Christian’s volatile relationship with God.  As long as things go well, their commitment remains true.  Meanwhile, the littlest sign of turmoil leads many to get cold feet wondering, “is this Christian thing really worth it?”  Anyone who has ever felt periods of distance from God might consider taking a break, putting the Lord on hold until you need Him again.  Regardless of where you may be, sincere faith requires trust.  Therefore, don’t live life like a roller coaster full of emotions.  Rather, remain steadfast on the narrow road which leads to heaven.

by Jay Mankus

 

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Calling Your Shot

Posted on October 12, 2013 by expressyourself4him

As Major League Baseball  widdles October’s 2013 playoff teams from 10 to 4, its a perfect time to reflect upon one of the greatest moments in World Series History.  According to legend, Babe Ruth called his shot, speaking a few words before gesturing with his hands toward the outfield.  On October 1st, 1932, during the 5th inning of game 3, Babe Ruth faced pitcher Charlie Root.  Seconds later, Ruth rounded the bases, hitting a home run, helping his New York Yankees to a 4 games to 0 sweep of the Chicago Cubs.  While Root dismissed Ruth’s prediction, Babe never confirmed or denied calling his shot.

A few thousand years earlier, there was another man who made a similar bold prediction.  Instead of playing baseball, Moses guaranteed to Pharaoh that God would answer his prayer at the exact moment he requested.  According to Exodus 8:8-13, Pharaoh reached a breaking point, overwhelmed by the influx of frogs that had invaded area square each of Egypt.  Showing proper respect to the king, Moses replies, “you set the time and my God will reply.”  Like Babe Ruth, if you talk a big game, you must deliver in the clutch.  Although Moses put his and God’s reputation on the line, the Lord came through like Mr. October, hitting a spiritual home run in Exodus 8:13.

 

Whether you play sports, games or make competitions out of activities, no one likes a cocky person unless he or she is on your side.  Depending upon their skill set, having someone with a heart and mind of a champion can persuade an entire group of people to believe they are invincible.  This belief inspired the words of apostle Paul in Romans 8:37-39, acknowledging the amazing power of God.  While a Christian should try to remain humble, if you acquire a faith like Matthew 22:18-22, you might start calling your shot daily, relying on the power of the Holy Spirit to do so, 2 Peter 1:3.

by Jay Mankus

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