Category: Sunrise & Scripture

You belong to God

Dear Younger Self,

I pray this letter finds you when you need it. I understand the burden you carry, so I’ll begin by assuring you of a truth which I hope will penetrate your pain, depression, and anxiety: The loving God who created you is still in charge.

This truth, indeed the truth of all truths, goes back to Genesis 1:1 “In the beginning, God created the heavens and the earth.” This verse is more than just the opening line of the Bible; it’s a foundational truth that will shape your understanding of God and the world around you. In only 10 words, the verse offers you the following encouragement:

  • Before anything else existed, God was there, initiating everything you know and see.
  • The Hebrew name used here, “Elohim,” reveals God’s nature as the powerful Creator. Remember, this Creator is not just powerful but also loving and intimately involved in every detail of His creation.
  • The phrase “the heavens and the earth” encompasses all of creation, from the vast expanse of the cosmos to the smallest intricacies of life. Everything finds its origin in God’s loving hand.

Now, why is any of this important to you? Acknowledging God as Creator forms the bedrock of your existence, and developing faith. It’s more than a theological concept; it’s a truth that will ground you in times of uncertainty and inspire awe in moments of wonder.

As you grow, remember that understanding God as “Alpha and Omega” shapes your worldview. It defines your identity and purpose. It keeps you humble by reminding you of your place in His economy.

Depend on God. Trust in His wisdom and guidance. The same God who spoke the universe into existence is the One who cares for you deeply. Let this truth anchor your prayers, your decisions, and your relationships.

I’ve created a YouTube video to explore the practical application of this teaching. In sum, pray fervently and seek God’s presence in every aspect of your life. Let His creative power and purpose infuse your thoughts and actions. Your faith journey begins here, with the profound truth of Genesis 1:1.

– Lele M

In the Presence of my Enemies

I once wondered how one takes a seat at the table God sets before her enemies. I have been meditating on that question for months. I’m writing to report I may have stumbled upon something.

Psalm 23:5

‘You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies. You anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows.’

When one takes her seat at the table God sets before her enemies, she does so with humility.

She recognises that God as the guest of honour. That the banquet is in honour of he who made it possible.

She resists the urge to make it about her right to vengeance, or even to justice.

She is aware it isn’t about her at all. She is merely a conduit.

She makes herself the smallest in the room. She amplifies the presence of God instead.

She inspires a sensitivity to the move of God.

She walks, talks, and plays as though the Ancient of Days were with her at all times.

Because he is.

Emmanuel.

What is “salvation” in culture-speak?

I often feel like I am not enough; not doing enough, moving fast enough, pushing hard enough, praying long enough, worshipping often enough. I have this sentiment in common with most (if not all) the people in the world – past and present.

Isaiah 50:7

Because the Sovereign Lord helps me, I will not be disgraced.
Therefore have I set my face like flint, and I know I will not be put to shame.

It is no wonder then, that popular culture is filled with “self-love” and “you are enough” sloganeering. There is self-help, self-improvement, self-love, and self-affirmation propaganda at every turn. The prevailing presumption seems to be that man is perfectable, and can indeed perfect himself. Ironically, according to culture, the problem can become its own solution. There is no concept of the answer lying outside the self. In fact, “salvation” is a word almost exclusively used in a religious context. Why is that?

I was challenged recently, during a discussion about the four chapter gospel – ‘the fall’, in particular. I was asked to recall an instance when I most felt the effects of sin and the fall. In my chronically overthinking nature, I did not offer an answer because I thought the one I had would come across as flippant and inadequate. Instead, I dove into the deep waters of thought rising steadily to drown out the conversation. So finally I attend to that question here. When have I most felt the effects of sin and the fall? After salvation.

I once heard a pastor remark that if you’re not enjoying sin, you’re doing it wrong. He was speaking about the conviction believers feel when they sin, when they fall short of righteousness. One who does not believe in God and living according to His word is not susceptible to conviction about partaking in sinful behaviour the way a Christian may be.

Indeed the unbeliever does not view their behaviour as sinful at all. They do not accept the Christian standard, thus the question of whether they transgress the bounds of said standard is irrelevant. The pastor was illustrating that willful sin is not worth it. Especially not to the Christian who will spend their time in sin feeling convicted, knowing that they should not be there. That conviction is the beauty of salvation by grace.

Salvation has affirmed that I am not enough, and liberated me with the truth that I don’t have to be. Culture, as they say, could never.

– Lele M