For those of us who believe in Jesus Christ, we can rest self-assured we are saved. We will never have to taste death or touch the flames of Hell. As Christians, we have been given the most valuable and loving gift ever given to mankind and for that we can be ultimately thankful. The good works we do for others is not so we may earn our way to salvation, but rather out of love for our savior, and son of God, Jesus Christ. He has given his body, the purest sacrifice, in our honor so we may see and experience Heaven with Him. Go forth today and give thanks for what we've been given.


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Think about a time when someone treated you with intense kindness. A moment when someone put down everything they were doing to help you with something you needed and poured on grace above and beyond that. To them, you could tell that you were the only one in the room. How did you feel when you walked away from that conversation? Chances are you probably left in a pretty good mood!

Let us then take a moment to remember that we as Christians are the body of Christ. When we show ultimate compassion, love, and kindness to others, we are showing others who Christ is with our actions. Let's put away words of criticism and harshness, and begin speaking words of life to everyone around us! Let us gently build each other up so they may be equipped to do the work of Christ.

Have a beautiful day my friends.
​- Jason, Acolyte of Zion


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Why do you continue to beat yourself up? When we don't forgive ourselves of things we've done wrong in the past, we will continue our lives as if tethered to a boulder. It will weigh you down and keep you from moving forward in life. If you are truly regretful of the sin, you've already paid the price for it and so has Jesus. You don't have to continue paying that price. You are worthy of the Lord's forgiveness, because He, Himself, has told you so.


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This verse is simple, but so profound. It doesn't say that the Lord will spare you from all trial and challenge, but rather give you the strength, courage, and wisdom to avoid feeling fearful of future challenges. At the same time, it is telling us that we can continue to "bear fruit," which suggests that even though you will still encounter challenges, you do not have to fear them, because the Lord will ensure that you will come out on the other side. If I may say so myself, most likely even better on the other side. Go out with confidence, friends, and keep the Lord close. Let peace be with you in all you encounter.

It's no secret that all of us feel anger at times. It's a natural human emotion that stirs us up and lets us know when we care deeply or passionately about something. It sometimes tells us when we should be taking action on something. So what is this verse talking about? It says to refrain from anger. The problem with anger is that when we dwell on what irritates or bothers us all the time, it can turn into resentment toward people. Resentment leads to a lack of forgiveness. Lack of forgiveness then leads to a cold, unkind heart, which is the opposite of what Jesus teaches us.

So what should we do when we feel anger? It may be practicing calming tricks, thinking before you speak, finding humor in the situation, etc. There are a plethora of resources that teach us how to control anger, but the most important resource many authors leave out: God. That's right. We need to get in tune with God. It is with God that we are able to tune our emotional vibrations to a higher level in order to overcome blind rage. Instead, turn away from the situation and pray for the Lord that He reveal to that person what is concerning you.


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This verse is critical for overcoming depression. Let's let the surrounding verses speak for themselves:

Philippians 4:4-9
"Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.

Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things. Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me—put it into practice. And the God of peace will be with you."

There are several key points here. The first is that when we bring our troubles to God, peace that transcends all understanding will guard our hearts. It means we do not have to understand the hows or the whys, but to just know that we should do this. Peace will supernaturally come over us.

Secondly, it says that whatever is praiseworthy, to think on those thoughts. Put simply, think about things that bring you joy! If something makes you feel sad, you need to put in a conscious effort to change the thoughts you are thinking before it gets the better of you. Remember, the enemy uses thoughts of defeat, inadequacy, and shame to reach us and keep us from experiencing the Lord's joy. Don't even give him the chance.

Have a beautiful and positive day, friends!


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If you've ever spent any time reflecting how our behaviors and actions affect our lives, you'd find that the first step to well-being is an attitude of gratitude. As Christians, we can reflect on God's faithfulness throughout the whole day so we are continuously equipping ourselves to face every challenge while simultaneously strengthening our relationship with the Lord. Another great benefit is that once you are feeling a sense of gratitude, that shows through in your behavior and body language. Those around you will sense it and you will notice their behavior too! In other words, by us praising the Lord, we are actually serving others around us by providing a light to them as well.


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We are God's workmanship...such powerful words. Just as a sculptor creates an unforgettable work of art, God created you. He created you to love, to thrive, and create. Imagine all the great works mankind has accomplished when he has applied himself and so can you! It is through the love the Lord has instilled in you that you can accomplish things that not even you can fathom. Just think about the statue of David or the Sistine Chapel where Adam and God make contact. The soaring heights of Notre Dame Cathedral. These were all created out of a deep and immeasurable love and reverence for God.

But what holds you back? What habits have you fallen victim to that cause you to live unfulfilled? Think of a few. These are your sins my dear friends. Hear me out, though. These do not make you a bad person, but it is time to overcome them so you can begin living with a new and fresh perspective, free of all things that bind you. Pray about these things so the Lord can do His work within you.


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Each and every day there are so many things that can stress us out. There are times when we even fall into a panic, because we cannot see how we are going to get out of our current situation. This is why God writes to us in the bible and speaks through our inner voice. He is telling you that you can do anything if you have faith if you just reach out. Take all of your troubles and lay them at the Lord's feet and you WILL be delivered. Our Lord always hears the cries of his children and he actively seeks to remove us from harm. With Jesus and God, our Father, there is literally NOTHING for  you to fear, because He will pave the way, removing all obstacles in  your path.



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In this age where all people are being examined under the microscope of criticism, the idea of revering even the name of something seems to some as unfathomable. As a culture, we are learning that it is hard to trust anyone or believe in anything as many institutions all over the nation come under fire for their beliefs and values. People are searching and hoping for these higher institutions to have moral values, but they are manufactured as we have already taken God out of the very fabric our nation was founded on.

This is where today's Christians must separate themselves from the way the "world" is conducting itself. You already have a leg up if you are willing to revere God's name and conduct yourself in his will. The interesting part is that though you may be criticized for being a Christian, it is those morals the world is deeply longing for and hoping for. Love, kindness, respect, caring, and lifting others' above yourself.

So what is it mean to revere God's name? It means having a deep respect and admiration for his name. You can gain this deep admiration by focusing on the all powerful and encompassing force that is God, the one who can breathe creation into life. Practice exhibiting immense gratitude for his faithfulness and love. This reverence, in and of itself, is a source of power. A power that has the ability to heal you and set you free, bringing joy and thanksgiving into your life.


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Fear is a powerful thing. It motivates us to take action we wouldn't normally take, because our soul cannot rest until we have solved the problems that cause us pain. This verse illustrates an important point for the non-Christians and Christians alike. If we spent as much time worrying about what God wants for us as we do solving all the menial problems and fears in our lives, our spiritual lives would be much improved. Our fear of God should be a healthy one, such as a child fears his father, whom has the power to discipline the child in love, but is also protected by his father and is eager to be like and imitate his father. Only focus on what matters to God. if His presence is with us, we will move through life with confidence.

Psalm 27:1 Of David. The LORD is my light and my salvation-- whom shall I fear? The LORD is the stronghold of my life-- of whom shall I be afraid?


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It can be easy to let the troubles of life become an overwhelming burden. Sometimes it feels like we are in the middle of an ocean with crashing waves and no land in sight. The wonderful news is that God is here to catch you. Cry out and He will be there for you. If that is not convincing enough, God calls to us to be comforted in his presence so we might maintain the mindfulness we need to recognize the comfort others need as well. This is also a great reminder to achieve a good work-life balance.

I once worked a job where I traveled all the time, had constant overtime, worked weekends, and had few moments to focus while on the job. I gained weight, had little time with friends, and couldn't even get in for a doctor visit. Eight years into my career with that company, I found myself completely burned out with no social or spiritual life, because I had nothing left to give. Needless to say, I wasn't going to church, volunteering, or working on my health.

It wasn't until I quit that job that I realized that I had traded all the things that could have been bringing me ultimate fulfillment for a mediocre paycheck. If this sounds familiar to you, put your faith in the Lord that he might see you through so you can find peace. This will leave you ready and able to help all those around you and achieve the purpose God has planned for you.



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As Christians, we have not been gifted these blessings of God so that we may sit idly by and ignore the problems happening in this world. Be strong and courageous. The Lord is with you to protect you from the forces that wish to destroy His kingdom. Put away criticism and hatred and use your influence to bring about change. Be the voice when it is needed. Nothing can happen unless you are willing to stand up for what you believe. If you have been feeling the call to make your voice heard, do not be afraid.



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Many times, throughout our Christian walk, it may seem difficult or even impossible at times to hold ourselves up to God's standard. Rest assured that you are only human and no man, except Jesus Christ, could measure up to His expectations of greatness. Even in your imperfection, he is there for you, feeding you, raising you up and ensuring you reach the finish line, if only you put your faith in Him. If so, know his faithfulness will be returned perfectly and abundantly. He gives much and expects little.


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