Reading through the Bible, especially when it's dealing with leadership -- I Love The Author And That.  Totally fascinating for me still!

Ever read Gene Edwards' historical fiction book on leadership? Pastor Edwards used the biblical accounts of three people..Saul, David and Absalom as his basic skeleton, but then he expanded the story utilizing his own theologically informed imagination. Also very interesting. 

In the Bible Saul, David, and Absalom's lives illustrate for us the different (right and wrong/sinful) ways that authority can be exercised and the importance of submission to God through life. 

We believers who would serve in God's Kingdom must have a brokenness about us in this broken world, and walk humbly if we want God to use us. 

We each need to love, lead and feed His people in his way like Jesus did not for personal gain, as false teachers do. 

"Joab walked directly in front of David, looked down on him, and began roaring his frustrations. “Many times he almost speared you to death in his palace. I saw that with my own eyes. Finally, you ran away. Now for years you have been nothing but a rabbit for him to chase. Furthermore, the whole world believes the lies he tells about you. He has come—the king himself—hunting every cave, pit, and hole on earth to find you and kill you like a dog. But tonight you had him at the end of his own spear and you did nothing! Look at us. We’re animals again. Less than an hour ago you could have freed us all. Yes, we could all be free, right now! Free! And Israel, too. She would be free. Why, David? Why did you not end these years of misery?”

There was a long silence. Men shifted again, uneasily. They were not accustomed to seeing David rebuked. “Because,” said David very slowly (and with a gentleness that seemed to say, I heard what you asked, but not the way you asked it), “because once, long ago, he was not mad. He was young. He was great. Great in the eyes of God and men. And it was God who made him king—God—not men.”

Joab blazed back, “But now he is mad! And God is no longer with him. And David, he will yet kill you!”

This time it was David’s answer that blazed with fire. “Better he kill me than I learn his ways. Better he kill me than I become as he is. I shall not practice the ways that cause kings to go mad. I will not throw spears, nor will I allow hatred to grow in my heart. I will not avenge. I will not destroy the Lord’s anointed. Not now. Not ever!” ~ G. Edwards (A Tale of Three Kings, p. 35-37)

God is the one who “removes kings and sets up kings.” (Dan. 2:21) However, none of us know the mind of God. He works in mysterious ways, and does as he pleases. Saul was the Lord’s anointed, even during the period of his madness. Through his experiences with Saul, and later Absalom, David teaches us what it means to wait on the Lord—to refuse to bring about the Lord’s will by taking matters into your own hands.

Not talking about acquiring worldly ideas and leadership formulas from any book here to replace the Bible and the good work of the Holy Spirit in God's Kingdom and church. 

How often do you think about biblical submission (to Direct and delegated) authority, and how as a flawed human, to properly deal with challenging, flawed leaders, particularly egotistical, self-centered ones, in a church context?

In every generation, the church faces three types of leaders: the self-protective Saul, the God-dependent David, and the self-promoting Absalom.

One person clings to a fading crown.

One person waits for God’s timing and gets anointed 3 times/promoted.

One person disloyally schemes for a throne that is not his.

The Spirit holds up David’s story like a mirror—showing us what it means to live broken, humble, and surrendered under God’s authority, while resisting the temptation to grab or guard power.

1. Saul: The Clutcher

Saul had the throne but lost the anointing. His leadership devolved into insecurity, spear-throwing, and suspicion of any rising servant. Saul reminds us that jealousy in leadership is a slow poison—it corrodes the soul until ministry becomes about self-preservation, not service.

Barna data: 41% of pastors admit struggling with insecurity about their position. Insecure leaders often make fear-based decisions that harm the flock.

Lesson: If God gives a role, He can sustain it. If He removes it, we can trust His sovereignty without weaponizing our influence to keep it.

2. David: The Praying Praising Waiter

David’s greatest victories were not over lions, bears, or Goliath—but over himself. He refused to strike back at Saul, even when cornered in a cave. He chose the long road of waiting for God to give the kingdom in His time. Later, when Absalom staged a coup, David surrendered the city rather than fight for the crown, proving his identity wasn’t rooted in a title but in God’s call.

Hymn echo:

“Have Thine own way, Lord, have Thine own way;
Thou art the Potter, I am the clay…”

Lesson for you and me: True authority is not grasped for but received when serving the Lord His way; it is not defended by force but entrusted into God’s care.

3. Absalom: The Egotistical Climber

Absalom’s charm was his weapon. Handsome, smooth-talking, and “discerning,” he won hearts by whispering that he could lead better. His strategy was subtle: flatter the people, question the current leader, and offer himself as the solution. But beneath the charisma lay ambition that would burn the kingdom and break his father’s heart.

Caution: In the church, charisma without character is a hidden reef—beautiful above water, destructive below.

The God-School of Brokenness Is for You and Me

David graduated from God’s “university,” where the curriculum was pain and obedience in the waiting time, and full surrender too. Saul failed. He was often his examiner. Some caves were David's classrooms, and Scripture with suffering was like his textbook. Spears were thrown at him by his leader. Brokenness stripped David of self-ambition so that God could entrust him with authority that blessed and protected, rather than crushed God’s people.

Gene Edwards wrote:

“God has a university. Few enroll; even fewer graduate. God has this school because He does not have broken men.”

Lesson: Brokenness in the Lord is not God’s rejection—it’s His preparation.

Teaching Points for Under-Shepherd Leaders

1. Hold Resources and Position Lightly – Ministry is a trust, not a possession. Don’t fight for what God has not assigned.

2. Refuse to Return Spears at the Chucker – When attacked, resist the urge to retaliate. David dodged spears; he never threw them back.

3. Leave Quietly When Forced Out..Only if God Leads You To – Depart alone, without recruiting followers to your cause. God honors the meek.

4. Discern Lame Charisma vs. Godly Character – Absalom looked like a king but lacked a shepherd’s heart.

5. Wait for God’s Timing – Brag on Jesus, not you. Make yourself not the hero of every story--exalt your perfect Lord. Promotion without preparation is a curse in disguise. Live for the Blesser, not for His blessings, even if they are good blessings.

6. Embrace God and His Classroom in a Healthy Local Christian Church – The wilderness seasons form leaders who will not harm God’s flock. Walk in the Spirit and keep going through His Bible.

7. Submit to Direct and Delegated Authority – Obey your leaders short of sinning. Prayerfully appeal. Even flawed leaders are part of God’s shaping process.

8. Worship God alone - This is Far Over Your Reputation – Like David dancing before the Lord, seek God’s pleasure, not public approval.

9. Guard Against the Power Hungry Saul Syndrome – Insecurity and jealousy can turn even the called into controlling leaders.

10. Remember the Crown Belongs to Christ – We want to cast crowns to Him. Our highest loyalty is not to position but to the King of Kings.

Let's Point People To Jesus And  Be A Serving Part of His Church His Way:

In local church leadership, the real test is not how we handle a title, the pay, a position, no position or pay, and how we respond when promotion and all of that is withheld—or taken away if we fail to obey God's Word. Please don't fail. 

The measure of a godly biblical leader is not in their tight grip on their so-called throne (why want one?), but in their grip on God the Son.

King David’s path clearly tells us: you can lose the palace and still keep the Kingdom, if your heart belongs wholly to the Lord instead of to a position.

Need some Bible verses on this stuff?

• “The greatest among you shall be your servant.” – Matthew 23:11

• “Shepherd the flock of God that is among you, exercising oversight… not domineering over those in your charge, but being examples to the flock.” – 1 Peter 5:2–3

• “When the righteous increase, the people rejoice, but when the wicked rule, the people groan.” – Proverbs 29:2

• “Without wise leadership, a nation falls; there is safety in having many advisers.” – Proverbs 11:14 (nlt)

• “Be strong and courageous.. for the Lord your God goes with you.” – Deuteronomy 31:6

1. Submission to Authority (General)
Romans 13:1-2: All authority comes from God; resisting authority means resisting God.

1 Peter 2:13-14: People should submit to human authority for the Lord's sake.

2. Submission in the Church (Specifically)
Hebrews 13:17: Believers should trust and submit to church leaders who watch over them.
1 Peter 5:5: Younger members should be subject to elders; everyone should be humble.
3. Dealing with Difficult/Self-Centered Leaders
Philippians 2:3: Value others above yourself with humility, which contrasts with selfish ambition.
Luke 22:26: Servant leadership means the greatest are like the youngest, and rulers serve.
1 Peter 2:18-20: Guidance is provided for enduring suffering when serving unjust authorities, as it is a gracious act when done with God in mind.
4. David's Example in the Bible.
David's actions toward Saul: David refused to retaliate against King Saul, who was driven by jealousy. David relied on God's sovereignty.
David's humility and submission: David's greatness came from submission and patience, waiting for God's timing. He refused to act on personal ambition, showing a brokenness desired by God.

"Men who speak endlessly on authority only prove they have none... authority from God is not afraid of challengers, makes no defense, and cares not one whit if it must be dethroned." ~ G. Edwards

"My king spoke not of submitting to him. He feared no rebellion…because he did not mind if he was dethroned!".

"I seek His will, not His power.. I desire His will more than I desire a position of leadership".

All believers are to walk and work in the Spirit with each other, not in the flesh. God-given authority does not need to be asserted by clever fleshly human ingenuity. True leadership prioritizes God's will over a human position and their pay.

Applying Biblical Principles in Challenging Situations
Patience and prayer: Trust in God's sovereignty and commit challenging situations to prayer, following David's example of patiently waiting for God to act.

Focus on personal character: Instead of criticizing or rebelling, an underling leader should focus on developing humility, servanthood, and the fruits of the Spirit.

"Thoughtful submission": While submitting to leaders, it's important to discern and not blindly follow instructions that contradict biblical principles. Concerns should be raised respectfully within biblical guidelines.

Remembering God's purpose: God can use difficult leaders to refine and develop character in those under their authority.

By focusing on these biblical principles and David's example in "A Tale of Three Kings", an underling leader can navigate difficult situations with grace, humility, and trust in God's plan.

1. David's relationship with King Saul:
Learning Submission: Saul, driven by jealousy and a spirit of madness, constantly sought to kill David, according to one Quora discussion. Instead of fighting back or taking revenge when he had the chance, David chose to endure persecution and wait for God's appointed time. He revered Saul as the Lord's anointed, even though Saul was acting contrary to God's will. This period of suffering and submission under Saul's dysfunctional leadership was instrumental in shaping David's humility, patience, and unwavering trust in God's sovereignty.

Refusing to Take Matters into His Own Hands: David had opportunities to remove Saul and seize the throne, but he consistently refrained from doing so, demonstrating a profound understanding of God's timing and a rejection of self-aggrandizement. This refusal to act on ambition, even when presented with a "justified" opportunity, became a hallmark of his character developed through these trials.

Avoiding a root of Bitterness: The book highlights how David learned to "dodge the spears" without retaliation, avoiding the bitterness and resentment that can accompany enduring abusive leadership. His ability to navigate such difficult circumstances without allowing bitterness to take root is presented as a testament to the shaping power of God through those trials.

2. David's experience with Absalom:
Further Refining Brokenness: While David himself made mistakes, especially as a father, the book also uses David's later experiences, such as the rebellion of his son Absalom, continued to refine his character. This further heartbreak and betrayal, even from his own son, further drove David into a place of dependence on God and demonstrated the depth of his brokenness.

Responding with Grace and Humility: Even in the face of Absalom's attempt to usurp his throne, David's response is depicted as one of seeking God's will rather than clinging to his own power. This again reinforced the theme of letting go of control and trusting in divine providence.

In essence, the book argues that God doesn't necessarily remove difficult leaders immediately, but often uses the very challenges they present to mold the character of the godly leaders he is preparing. Through David's example, it emphasizes that submission, trust, and a refusal to retaliate are not signs of weakness, but rather the path to a true, God-honoring leadership lifestyle.

* Leadership, It's About Godly Influence. Look To Jesus And Let His Spirit Of Love Flow Through You. 

• “A true leader is one who knows the way, goes the way, and shows the way.” – John C. Maxwell

• “If you are a leader, you must serve. If you do not serve, you are not fit to lead.” – Charles Spurgeon

• “The function of leadership is to live in such a biblical humble way and see God raise up a.k.a. produce more godly, servant leaders equiping the church to fulfil the Great Commandment and Great Commission, not just for more followers of us. We are here to glorify the Lord by winning souls and helping more people closely follow Christ.” – KWvS 

• “Humility is not thinking less of yourself, but thinking of yourself less.” – C.S. Lewis

• “Godly leadership is not about power; it is about seeking the Lord first and by His equipping, empowering others to walk with God doing His will.” – KWvS

What does it mean to submit to authority (Hebrews 13:17)?

How are we to submit to God?

What does the Bible even say about authority?

Do women have to remain silent in church..really?

What does it mean that Sarah called Abraham lord?

What does it mean that everyone should be subject to the governing?

What is the biblical definition of submission?

Does the Bible give any one individual spiritual authority over another?

According to the Bible, to whom are we to be submissive, and why?

* Historical & Biblical Stories of Leadership

• Nehemiah – Faced ridicule, threats, and sabotage, yet led the rebuilding of Jerusalem’s walls in 52 days. His leadership combined prayer, strategic planning, and servant humility.

• David – Refused to harm or kill that cruel, religious, murderous Saul even when he could do that, showing that godly leadership values proper submission to God with integrity over personal ambition. "Thus Jeremiah was to say to Baruch: “This is what the LORD says: Throughout the land I will demolish what I have built and uproot what I have planted. 5But as for you, do you seek great things for yourself? Stop seeking!" Jeremiah 45:4-5b

• William Wilberforce – British parliamentarian who fought tirelessly for the abolition of the slave trade, guided by his faith in Christ.

• George Müller – Led orphanages without asking for funds, depending solely on prayer. His leadership was marked by trust in God’s provision.

* I love Good Lyrics (Whole Songs Sometimes) On This Stuff

• “Take my life, and let it be consecrated, Lord, to Thee.” – Frances R. Havergal (1874)

• “O Master, let me walk with Thee, in lowly paths of service free.” – Washington Gladden (1879)

• “Channels only, blessed Master, but with all Thy wondrous power, flowing through us Thou canst use us every day and every hour.” – Mary Maxwell (1900)

* Timeless, Yet Good Leadership Insights

• “Leadership is not about being in charge. It is about (rightly) taking care of those in your charge.” – Simon Sinek

• “(Good godly) Example is not the main thing in influencing others; it is the only thing.” – Albert Schweitzer

• “The supreme quality for leadership is unquestionably integrity.” – Dwight D. Eisenhower

When A Believer's Loved One Dies In Front Of Their Eyes .. Unimaginable Ouch.. 

..Or It's Just Way Too Close For Comfort As Those We Care About Fade.. Almost Die ..And Yet All Things Are Working Together For Good!

Really? Some Nights Romans 8:28 Has Felt Too Heavy To Hold On To.

Let's Hold Onto Jesus Through It. God Is Close..Totally Trustworthy And His Word Remains True. 

I remember when my second Nathan son died, and when my mom almost died from Covid. She came very close. 

Glad my other loved ones haven't passed -- am thinking about other families today. 

The NICU at 3 a.m. is no place for some two-dollar shiny bumper-sticker type of theology. 

While a baby is gasping for air, please remember this, believer, a bright smile with a random partial quote of a verse can often feel like a band-aid slapped over a bullet wound. 

What does it mean that we should be quick to listen and slow to speak (James 1:19)?

How should Christian parents handle the death of a child?

How do you or I find comfort and peace when we've lost a loved one?

What really happens after death?

Where did Old Testament believers go when they physically died?

Can I ask God to deliver a message to a loved one who has died?

What sort of condolences should a Christian give someone struggling or mourning?

What does it mean to walk through the valley of the shadow of death?

How can I overcome the fear of death?

Is it biblical to say 'rest in peace' (RIP) in regard to those who have lost a loved one?

How can a believer find comfort after the death of a parent?

Do believers immediately go to heaven when they die?

What does the Bible say about grief?

How can I find comfort when an unsaved loved one has died?

Context, context please, Bible context -- important! Romans 8:28 doesn’t tell us that all things happening at us are good. 

Overwhelmed with parental suffering, dead children aren’t good, ventilators aren’t inherently good (might be good for someone later), and that intense grief with a mother’s empty arms is never good. But God, His unchanging promises, and living Word are still good ..and He is there for you and me. 

All those things we believers experience that are not good—yes, even these things—can indeed be woven into God’s greater plan for eternal good. I don't reject any of Romans 8, the whole Bible is true. Read what it actually says for yourself. 

Paul penned Romans 8:28–29 not from a TV studio, but from a cold cell, knowing execution was near. The Greek word synergeō means “to work together,” like separate forces combining to produce something neither could alone. God doesn’t call the wreckage good—He steps into it, bends it, redeems it. His “good” often looks like faith purified in fire, character hammered into steel, and ministry birthed from misery.

This promise is for “those who love God”—for the saved, not for mere casual Sunday posers or CEO tourists (mere Christmas and Easter Only church goers), but for active growing, ongoing lovers of Christ (children of the Father). And His good is measured not in temporary comfort, but in eternal conformity to Christlike character (lots of people don't ever read the following verse - Romans 8:29).

Joseph’s brothers hated and were out to kill him, but they sold him instead. Paul was beaten and shipwrecked. Neither man’s pain was good in itself—but God forged something good from it all. 

The best rescue and salvation for people is God's work (Genesis 50:20; Acts 9:16). “We are more than conquerors,” Paul wrote, because nothing at all—not death, demons, or dangerous disaster—can sever us from the love of God in Christ (See Romans 8:35–39).

Charles Spurgeon warned, “The world does not read the Bible; the world reads Christians.” 

When pain comes, the world watches to see if our theology holds out. A God who only works when our preferences are met is not God—He’s an assistant. That's not the God of the Bible. But the true God can take hell’s worst attacks and weaponize those so to speak.. for heaven’s purposes.

"Your kingdom come, Your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. 11Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors.." Matt. 6:11-12

This isn’t divine manipulation; it’s divine infiltration. God stepping into the ashes, not always to remove the fire, but to walk with us in it.

Again Barna research shows that nearly 65% of Christians say their deepest spiritual growth came through.. not around.. hardship—not through ease. That’s not surprising. Hymn writer William Cowper, who knew both depression and faith..this might sound kind of religious, but he put it like this:

"God moves in a mysterious way,
His wonders to perform;
He plants His footsteps in the sea,
And rides upon the storm."

Remember when Jesus went boardless and walked on the sea? So, believer, keep clinging to Christ in and through all storms! 

Seek Him first when the monitors scream and your pastor walks in, know this: "the good" may not at all look like what you prayed for, but Jesus is good, considerate, kind and he is there for you! He can hold your hand and help you through this mess. 

Being saved and walkin' in the Lord doesn't change what you have to deal with in this world. It changes how you (with the Bible, the Holy Spirit's anointed wisdom), deal with it (unto God's glory and for the benefit of other lost and saved people). The circumstances around us often change, the people change, the fickle feelings change, the methods change, but our loving God, His good promises, and His faithful word never do change. His loyalty, greater wisdom, and compassionate agape love are completely consistent. Let's also be consistent and share His message!

"And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose. For whom He foreknew, He also predestined to be conformed to the image of His Son, that He might be the firstborn among many brethren." Romans 8:28-29 nkjv

I know there really are unseen and seen consequences for breaking God's laws by sinning. I used to be lost as a lizard who enjoyed doing some sins. Yes, some of it can be fun for a season.

Sickness is a consequence of sin, but many sick people suffer here due to other people's sinning. Now I often think when a sinner gets physically sick or diseased, then God often allows a righteous person to also get that way too.. and hopefully that sick sinner will observe God supernatually helping the sick child of God and then choose to become a child of God in Christ as well.

"’For the Son of Man came to seek and to save the lost.’ While the people were listening to this, Jesus proceeded to tell them a parable, because He was near Jerusalem and they thought the kingdom of God would appear imminently. So He said, ‘A man of noble birth went to a distant country to lay claim to his kingship and then return.." Luke 19:10-12a

Study Saul, who caused pai,n turned into Paul. Study his life again. It's a testament to how God really does works all things (even the bad things we experience) together for good.

Paul suffered too. Remember his shipwrecks, his beatings, his imprisonment, his murder attempts, his temporary blindness, and more—all within God’s plan to spread the gospel to lost Jews and Gentiles (see Acts 9:16 and 2 Corinthians 11:24–27).

Through it all, God remained sovereign and steadfastly working to bring about good and glorious results for people.

I love the Lord and Romans 8! After promising that God works all things together for our the good, Romans 8 concludes with the wonderful fact that God trumps everything that comes against Him and His children who belong to Him.

The reborn Christian is assured that zero, null, nada, nothing can ever separate them from God’s agape love:

“Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall trouble or hardship or persecution or famine or nakedness or danger or sword? ..No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us. For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord” Romans 8:35–39.

God is WAY powerful -- All-powerful. His love is everlasting, and His wisdom is wonderful and infinite. It doesn’t really matter who or what attempts to come against you to thwart God’s plan; no one and nothing can. See the context and think about where Paul is right now. All humans will exist forever in one of two places (God's holy Heaven or in Hell), but Christians will enjoy abundant and everlasting life. God will work all things together for the good of those who love Him and are called according to His purpose.

Our decision to repent and believe in Jesus (the Father's only Solution for you and me) makes all the difference. His forgiveness and new birth are free -- it's a privilege and huge reward of faith to align our will with God’s plan. He's still alive and trustworthy!

Does He allow a pattern here? (Prayfully look at the context):

• “Though He slay me, yet will I trust in Him” (Job 13:15). Remember how it turned out for Job?

• “We are more than conquerors through Him who loved us” (Romans 8:37). Paul still enjoys an abundant life and lives on minus chains.

• “You meant evil against me, but God meant it for good” (Genesis 50:20). Hurting, rejected, sold off, accused, and jailed, Joseph received God's comfort and then became a comforter and provider for his brothers. (vv. 20-25).

Joseph firsthand knew painful betrayal, slavery, false pointing of the finger like the devil likes to do, and prison life. Job knew unthinkable loss. Paul knew harsh shipwrecks, lashes on the back, hunger, and heavy chains. None of it was good in and of itself, yet God’s own good emerged like gold from the heated fire of suffering.

Spurgeon said, “When you can’t trace His hand, trust His heart.” 

Christians in and near Ecuador on On January 8 in 1956 were struggling to reconcile the vicious violence there with the sovereignty of God.

Jim Elliot, Nate Saint, Ed McCully, Peter Fleming, and Roger Youderian where waiting on a sandy riverbank, all eager to become friends and make contact with the Huaorani people. Then these guys got murdered - all five lay dead. Nothing about that was good!

Jim Elliot had written in his journal years before:

“He is no fool who gives what he cannot keep to gain what he cannot lose.”

It took years to see what God would do there with those people.

The NICU is a place where those of this world are sometimes reading other hurting Christians (among other places)—and they want to see if our theology holds up under the fluorescent light and the shadow of death. Some who watch us hope we fail in order to somehow gain comfort from that. 

I know statistics bear this out: Barna Research found that 65% of Christians point to seasons of pain as the turning points of their spiritual growth and going forward. Conversely, less than 15% attribute their deepest growth to seasons of ease. In other words, hardship, not comfort, often becomes the forge of faith.

Seems like most people who come to Christ to get right with the Father do so during times of pain, struggle, and suffering rather than during times of ease and prosperity. 

William Cowper, no stranger to hurt, fears and some despair, wrote in his hymn:

"Judge not the Lord by feeble sense,
But trust Him for His grace;
Behind a frowning providence
He hides a smiling face."

Every single experience God gives to us believers is the perfect preparation for what's ahead -- that future that only He can see.

Helen Keller is a Christian who knew lifelong limitation -- she once said, “Character cannot be developed in ease and quiet. Only through experience of trial and suffering can the soul be strengthened.”

Even professional secular voices sometimes stumble upon this same principle.

And yet for the believer, there is something even richer than character at stake—it is conformity to Christ, eternal reward, and the unshakable presence of God who will one day wipe every tear from our eyes (See Revelation 21:4).

This is why Paul can write, “Our light affliction, which is but for a moment, is working for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory” (2 Corinthians 4:17). Light? Momentary? Only if you measure it against eternity.

This isn’t about divine manipulation—it’s about divine infiltration. Into our world where we live. 

Jesus did that..came and lived here for us all. 

And God steps into the fire today, even, not always to put it out, but to walk with us in it, like He did with Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego (See Daniel 3). Sometimes His “good” is seen in the miracle of deliverance, other times in the miracle of endurance on through (with Jesus leading).

"When through fiery trials thy pathway shall lie,
My grace, all-sufficient, shall be thy supply;
The flame shall not hurt thee; I only design
Thy dross to consume and thy gold to refine.
—John Rippon, How Firm a Foundation."

Man, how do adults even sleep near a NICU?

Those monitors blink a lot with the steady rhythm of delicate lives hanging by such fragile strands, their digital beeps the heartbeat of hope—and sometimes, putting out sounds of great loss. 

The hospital shadows stretch across those clean white-tiled-walls, with the scent of antiseptic lingering in the air nearby.. like a cold reminder that we all are mortal and life here is brief. 

Our world is filled with the brokenness from sin, the ravages of rebellion,  and we see it daily. 

I think I was born disobedient, loved to do that, so I needed to be born again. Now as a believer, I loathe what I used to love (that party lifestyle etc) and love what I used to loathe (Bible study, prayer, worship, fellowship with Christians in a healthy church). Man, God has put a new nature inside of me. 

Hey believer, "continue to work out your salvation with fear and trembling,  for it is God who works in you to will and to act in order to fulfill his good purpose." Philippians 2:12-13 nic

"But without faith it is impossible to please Him, for he who comes to God must believe that He is, and that He is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him." Hebrews 11:6 nkjv

Too many people are fighting against brokenness in their bodies today. It's so sad to see --  some of them are too small or too weak to fight for themselves! Pray like you mean it cuz you really do!

So when the monitors blare and the chaplain’s footsteps fall heavy on steril linoleum tiles, remember that: God is light and there is no darkness in Him. He’s “good” even when things don't look like what you prayed for. Let Jesus in.. let Him live big in you. He gets it, all of it, and His grace is sufficient for you. He and His good plan we can trust, even right here, even right now. 

Here's what I love about the Bible and God's plan for us -- it's simple enough for a small child to understand. 

Want to know the Lord well and grow? Grasp hold of the Living Word ..and please keep it simple. 

Some Christians make knowing God sound too complicated, like cracking a theological code. Makes ya wonder if they enjoy a simple close relationship.. do they have a candid, grateful relational prayer-life? 

Don't get me wrong, I love real facts, mnemonic devices to help me remember important truths and things, so that I can be obedient to authority (by the Spirit's power) -- yes, remember good principles of truth as well. Glad I now enjoy fellowship that's well instead of spiritually sick. But hey, there is a winsome Person to get to intimately know (while staying biblical).  

Others reduce it to a vague feeling. But Scripture paints a richer, truer picture—a relationship that is both simple and profound, intimate yet awe-filled. Jesus is not a concept to master; He is the Shepherd who walks with us to green pastures and still waters (Psalm 23). He feeds, guides, corrects, and restores.

I say walking close with Jesus (who was and is filled with grace and truth) isn’t meant to be complicated. Do you think you could get closer? Do I think so? Yes, I think we could get closer to Christ and His body. 

I say don't complicate it. Keep it balanced—pray, read His Word with a heart to apply, worship and praise Him along with His people, honestly confess your sins to God, asking for His free forgiveness. Yes, obey what He says in the Word. Pray without neglecting Scripture. Think deeply without losing joy (meditate upon truth and memorize some verses). Serve Him faithfully without forgetting agape love--He'll lead you in serving people without doing that too much. Who wants to become a workaholic "for God" just to impress leaders or others? You don't need that lifestyle; your spouse and children don't want that for you at their expense. 

I remember how Chuck Smith Sr. lived the life—it was about grace and truth. Flawed yes, we all are, but he kept diligently lovingly feeding God's flock through all the counsels of God, loving sinners and saints, spotting..recognizing God’s hand in his daily life because his prayer life was simple and to the point. A balanced Christian life doesn’t just keep you steady—it makes your witness reflect His shining light in this dark world.

Barna research shows that believers who prayerfully read the Bible daily are far more likely to live with peace and purpose. Why? Because they stay close to the Shepherd.

Chuck Smith used to speak of walking with the Lord with such gratitude inside that it made biblical faith so attractive to onlookers. Made it seem refreshingly uncomplicated cuz it's really to be like that. 

He fed the flock instead of fleecing it, loving both sinner and saint, and quietly showing the marks of one who recognized God’s fingerprints in daily life. Pastor Hamil Jeffrey does the same—lingering in a crowd, smiling, asking your name again, and listening like you mattered deeply. That is what knowing the Lord looks like when it spills over into everyday moments.

"Lord, keep me.. my heart both still and strong,

To walk close with You the whole way through.. all day long.

In Word and prayer, help my steps align with Yours,

Your Scriptural voice my guide, Your will be done minus pride.

When sin erects its cold walls of stone,

I choose to run to You, and to You alone.

Forgiveness flows, planted seed grows, the slate made clean,

Your mercy sometimes felt, Your goodness seen, experienced in my being.

I’ll lift my thanks and praise before my plea,

And trust You and Your plans -- You have for me.

With real saints I’ll sing, with hands I’ll practically serve,

Obey with joy, and never swerve (as You help me).

Confess, and hear, and speak, and stand, that's my plan,

In acceptable worship with Your holy band.

In simple balance I will sow -- Lord, my soul will grow,

And with grace in my life, Your love will show.

Just a closer walk each day -- I want to stay,

In this movement, aid me to stay, to pray and obey. Step by step in Your Way

Shepherd, guide me, choose to use, keep me true,

Till my heart’s at home with You." ~ KWvS

This is not about worshiping our intellect, though we must use our minds. 

Mr. Clive S. Lewis said, “God is no fonder of intellectual slackers than of any other slackers. If you are thinking of becoming a Christian, I warn you: you are embarking on something which is going to take the whole of you.” 

Mr. George Barna research shows that only 32% of practicing Christians read the Bible daily, and those who do are significantly more likely to report deep satisfaction in their walk with God. 

Why? Because hearing God through His Word and speaking to Him in prayer is the heartbeat of a simple but lovely living faith.

The Apostle Paul himself—who knew Christ more intimately than most—still said, “I count everything as loss because of the surpassing worth of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord” (Philippians 3:8). If he longed for more, so should we. We will never be as close to God as we ought in this life because of lingering sin, but we can draw nearer.

Scripture gives us a simple but powerful pathway:

1. Confession – Sin builds walls; confession tears them down (1 John 1:9). A contrite heart is a magnet for God’s mercy (Psalm 51:17).

2. Listening – God’s voice is most clearly heard in His Word (2 Peter 1:19). Open it daily.

3. Speaking – Pray as Jesus taught—praising His name, seeking His kingdom, trusting His provision. Let the Psalms tutor your heart.

4. Gathering – Worship with His people (Hebrews 10:25). Come ready to give, not just get.

5. Obeying – Love proves itself in action (John 14:15). Obedience is love wearing work clothes.

Think of your relationship with God as you would with a dear friend: spend time together, speak honestly, listen well, admit wrongs, and live in a way that honors them. Simple, yes—but never shallow.

As the hymn Just a Closer Walk with Thee pleads:

I am weak, but Thou art strong;
Jesus, keep me from all wrong;
I’ll be satisfied as long,
As I walk, let me walk close to Thee.

Start there. Start today. The Shepherd’s voice is calling you—and His pasture is SO green.

As a child, I was once told there's a spiritual balance to enjoy in Christ: If all you do is pray, you could blow up, but if all you do is lock away to study, you could dry up. But if you pray and study Bible-truth.. weavving in some wise applications as you walk with the Lord (..where He's leading you) you'll grow up.

With grace and truth, you can have balance in your Christian walk with Jesus. Keep it simple with wise applications that make sense and make a witnessing impact.

Grace and Truth can Happen Together: You Walking in Balance with Jesus

With grace and truth, you can have balance in your Christian walk with Jesus first. This balance keeps faith simple, yet never shallow; it grounds you in wise applications that make sense and make a witnessing impact. Grace without truth can melt into sentimentality. Truth without grace can freeze into harsh dogma. But Jesus Christ, the Word made flesh, came “full of grace and truth” (John 1:14, 17)—the perfect pairing for a life that both honors God and draws people to Him.

John’s words are not accidental. He’s echoing Exodus 34:6, where the Lord revealed Himself to Moses as “abounding in lovingkindness [hesed] and truth [emet].” 

The same divine attributes in the Old Testament are applied to Christ in the New—a quiet but profound declaration of His deity. Colossians 1:6, 2 John 1:3, Psalm 86:15, and even 2 Samuel 15:20 carry this theme forward: God’s mercy and faithfulness always move in unison.

Only Christianity perfectly marries these two qualities. Other religions tilt the scales—justice without mercy, or mercy without justice. But in Christ, truth is never compromised and grace is never withheld. Romans 3:23 tells us all have sinned and deserve God’s judgment. Yet, on the cross, justice was satisfied, truth upheld, and grace poured out to all who believe.

A balanced Christian walk mirrors the Savior’s own character—holding firm to truth, yet extending unmerited kindness. It is not complicated:

• Confess your sins—tell on yourself, hide zero, the truth about yourself.

• Receive forgiveness—it's free, ask for this grace of cleansing from God.

• Read His Word—listen, hear God, it's food to nourish, and truth to guide you.

• Pray with gratitude—say thanks for every blessing, give praise and the glory to God. What will happen -- growth, grace shaping your heart.

• Obey in love—both direct and delivered Authority -- truth in action, grace in His Spirit. Choose to appeal, but not to obey delegated authorities in sinning. Obey short of sinning. 

Hold the course in the Word, believer. Keep it simple. Keep it real, steady and consistent for His glory Keep it simple, walk godly. Keep your experince here Christ-centered, holy, and wonderfully winsome! 

God's love wisely protects people. We can too! Spiritual balance basically protects you from drifting off base into soft spiritual compromises (that would lead to a super lame compromise. You don't have to stumble or fall) or go off into hardcore legalism. And when grace and truth flow together in your life, people will see Jesus in you. They will notice something different from those of the world. Your faith becomes anointed and compelling in Christ—not because you’ve mastered every formula, but because you walk with the One who is full of both.

The Bible says, "Salvation exists in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to men by which we must be saved.” 13When they saw the boldness of Peter and John and realized that they were unschooled, ordinary men, they marveled and took note that these men had been with Jesus." Acts 4:12-13

Come Thou Fount:

Oh, to grace how great a debtor, daily I’m constrained to be;
Let Thy goodness, like a fetter, bind my wandering heart to Thee.

It's true, Jesus as our Example came here: “full of grace and truth” (John 1:14). 

Every person we meet has sinned and deserves God’s judgment. you and me too (Romans 3:23), yet on Christ's cross He satisfied God's perfect justice, upheld truth, and poured out grace to all who believe. We still live during this age of grace..so get right before you get left! Respond to Him. Repent. Here and now is good! 

A balanced Christian walk mirrors Him: so honestly confess sin when you blow it (truth), receive free forgiveness (via God's grace), read the Bible (truth. That's God's love letter to believers), pray with gratitude and praise (more grace), obey the Authority of God in love (truth with grace).

Keep it simple. Keep it steady. Keep it Christ-centered. When grace and truth run together in your life, people see Jesus—not just in what you say, but in who you are.

Need Some Bible Verses: Grace + Truth + Simplicity of Walking Keeping Jesus First

• John 1:14, 17 – “The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us… full of grace and truth… For the law was given through Moses; grace and truth came through Jesus Christ.”

• Exodus 34:6 – “The LORD, the LORD God, merciful and gracious, longsuffering, and abounding in goodness and truth.”

• Psalm 86:15 – “But you, Lord, are a compassionate and gracious God, slow to anger, abounding in love and faithfulness.”

• Colossians 4:6 – “Let your conversation be always full of grace, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how to answer everyone.”

• Ephesians 4:15 – “Speaking the truth in love, we will grow to become in every respect the mature body of him who is the head, that is, Christ.”

Holy Simplicity & Relational Faith In Jesus - So Desirable Is He!

• Micah 6:8 – “He has shown you, O mortal, what is good. And what does the LORD require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God.”

• 1 Thessalonians 4:11–12 – “Make it your ambition to lead a quiet life: You should mind your own business and work with your hands… so that your daily life may win the respect of outsiders.”

• Matthew 6:33–34 – “But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well… Do not worry about tomorrow.”

• 2 Corinthians 1:12 – “…we have conducted ourselves in the world… with integrity and godly sincerity, not relying on worldly wisdom but on God’s grace.”

• 1 Timothy 6:6 – “But godliness with contentment is great gain.”

2. Christian Quotes on Grace + Truth + Simple Faith

• A.W. Tozer – “The Bible recognizes no faith that does not lead to obedience, nor does it recognize any obedience that does not spring from faith.”

• John Stott – “Truth becomes hard if it is not softened by love; love becomes soft if it is not strengthened by truth.”

• Charles Spurgeon – “When truth and grace kiss each other, there is no safer place for a sinner to stand.”

• Hudson Taylor – “God’s work done in God’s way will never lack God’s supply.”

• Corrie Ten Boom – “Faith is simply putting your hand in God’s and walking with Him, step by step, in the dark.”

• Elisabeth Elliot – “The secret is Christ in me, not me in a different set of circumstances.”

• Dallas Willard – “Simplicity is the inward reality of single-hearted focus upon God (the Father) and His Kingdom, which results in an outward lifestyle of modesty and unpretentiousness.”

3. Biblical Role Models of Grace, Truth, and Holy Simplicity

• Jesus Christ – Our ultimate Example. He perfectly balanced grace and truth every moment (John 1:14–17).

• Moses – Walked with God in humility and interceded for others with grace and truth (Exodus 33–34).

• David – Loved mercy yet upheld truth, confessing sin and returning to God (Psalm 51; Psalm 86:15).

• Daniel – Lived truthfully and graciously even in a hostile culture (Daniel 1, 6).

• Mary, mother of Jesus – Lived in quiet trust and humble obedience (Luke 1:38).

• Barnabas – “A good man, full of the Holy Spirit and faith” who encouraged others (Acts 11:24).

• John the Baptist – Spoke truth boldly, but pointed always to Christ (John 3:30).

4. Historical Christians Who Modeled This

• Francis of Assisi – Simplicity, humility, and joy in serving God and others.

• George Müller – Lived by faith, trusting God for provision without asking for funds directly.

• Amy Carmichael – Balanced truth in confronting evil with grace toward the vulnerable.

• Watchman Nee – Taught a simple, Christ-centered walk marked by deep faith.

• Brother Lawrence – Practiced the presence of God in everyday tasks.

• Corrie & Bestsie Ten Boom – Extended grace to her enemies while proclaiming truth.

Hey, need some doable steps for cultivating this sublime kind of relationship with the Lord as they did? Like honest Christians back in the day, how can we believers today pray and cultivate a simple relationship with God that is tenderly intimate, daily, sincere, beautifully simple yet obedient to God's word? Are there steps to avoid? Basic steps? 

a. Begin the day talking with God in His presence

• Scripture: Psalm 5:3 — “In the morning, Lord, you hear my voice; in the morning I lay my requests before you and wait expectantly.” Listen to His Spirit as you read the Bible. 

• Practice: Before touching any Social Media or even your phone, or diving into the day, take a few quiet moments to greet the Lord, read a few verses, and pray simply.

• Why it matters: Keeps your heart tuned to God before the noise of the day sets in.

b. Keep prayer conversational all through the day. Yes, frequent..

• Remember Jesus and Scripture: 1 Thessalonians 5:17 — “Pray without ceasing.”

• Practice short whispered prayers and kind deeds: Talk to God throughout the day about everything — not just “spiritual” things.

• Why it matters: Builds ongoing intimacy; keeps God in the center of ordinary moments. Your days, weeks, months and years won't stay ordinary because He isn't any ordinary God. 

c. Obey the promptings of the Spirit promptly, even in small matters

• Remember Him again and Bible directives: John 14:15 — “If you love me, keep my commands.”

• Practice: When Scripture or the Spirit convicts you, act quickly. Obedience, even in small things, deepens trust and spiritual sharpness.

• Why it matters: Delayed obedience dulls spiritual intimacy; quick obedience keeps the heart tender.

d. Practice holy practicality and His type of simplicity

• Review how Jesus walked in the Scriptures: 1 Timothy 6:6 — “Godliness with contentment is great gain.”

• Ask for Wisdom and Practice It: Reduce distractions, live within your means, avoid overcommitting. Make room in your life for God’s voice and service to others.

• Why it matters: Complication, confusion and clutter in life often clutters up the soul; but simplicity and clarity leaves space for God to rule. When there is an opaque mist in the pulpit, there is a lame fog in the pew. What about in your home, school or workplace? The  lack of a clear vision, clear communication, or clear purpose for any message or sermon isn't helpful. What doesn't help? Uncertainty and biblical illiteracy and spiritual immaturity where there's an avoidance of important truths to apply.. doesn't help! Vague talk, overly complex explanations of simple biblical concepts or statements hinders people.

e. Serve others behind the scenes quietly helps

• Remember Jesus' example and words in Scripture: Matthew 6:3–4 — “Do not let your left hand know what your right hand is doing.”

• Practice: Look for unnoticed acts of kindness — encouragement, admonitions, generosity, listening — without needing recognition.

• Why it matters: Trains us in humility, reflects Jesus, keeps motives completely pure.

f. Keep grace and truth married together

• Scripture: Ephesians 4:15 — “Speaking the truth in love..” This draws people to the Son. 

• Practice: In your speech, correct gently with kindness to restore, to encourage with honesty, and live with God's level of integrity.

• Why it matters: Protects you from sliding into either harshness or spiritual compromise and carnality.

2. There Are Some Religious & Other Pitfalls to Avoid

• Legalism — Making rules or rituals the measure of your faith instead of Christ Himself is lame and horribly religious.

• Busyness (I mean overly--too busy) for God instead of time with Jesus — Activity can be a substitute for intimacy. Good activities can become the enemy of the best things to do, or not do. He loves His time with you each day. 

• Neglecting Scripture — Prayer without the Word risks drifting off into error or a self-made spirituality.

• Isolation from the body of Christ — Simple faith is not an overly solitary faith; we need fellowship. Elijah was often a loner seeking the Lord, but Elisha hung out with the people for fellowship more ..it would appear. The Father used both for His glory! 

• Harboring unconfessed sin — Unaddressed sin always cools intimacy with God.

3. Teachable Humility, The Heart's Posture

Think of your walk with God like holding a candle in the wind:

• You are to shield it from gusts (distractions, sin, pride).

• You are to clutivate or feed it with fuel (Word, prayer, listening, obedience).

• You are to boldly share it (your own walk, story of faith, and His Message) with others, but don’t let the flame burn out from overexposure

In relationship with the Redeemer, you and I need both reason, reality in the Scriptures (the facts of His sure promises), and intimate relationship--allowing Jesus to keep your walk balanced. 

I say all prayer only and no study..really? You could blow up; all study and no prayer, you could dry up; prayer and study together as you follow Jesus as Lord—you will grow up!

In every conversation the Holy Spirit brings about (upwards to the Father or outwards. Yep, on the vertical plane or on the horizontal plane), and with every step or helpful act of service, and with every decision you make today, let Jesus rule without rival. He's still your Chief Shepherd, isn't He.. you're in His flock right? You can be! 

(All are His creations, but not all are God's children until they are born into His family). Allow your Father's grace and truth to be the twin rails your life runs on in Christ! For when you walk this way, you think and walk in a blessed harmony.. in step with Jesus (the Christ of the Bible, who is God's Way for you) Himself.