Pursued by Love
Have you ever felt that wave of panic when something important goes missing—your phone, your wallet, even the TV remote? When something is valuable to us, we don’t stop looking until we find it. We flip cushions, retrace our steps, and keep searching—relentlessly.
Now imagine this: what if you were the one who was lost? And what if God Himself was searching for you with that same relentless determination?
Here’s the truth—many of us don’t even realize we’re lost. We’re lost in busyness, filling our calendars to the brim because the world celebrates hustle, even when our souls are exhausted. Some of us are lost in relationships, hoping another person can complete us, forgetting that only Jesus truly can. Others are lost in self-doubt, silently fighting a daily battle with worth and identity. And some are just spiritually lost—longing for peace, comfort, security... longing for home.
But the powerful truth revealed in Scripture is this: God is not waiting for you to find your way—He is actively pursuing you.
The Restless Heart: Why We Struggle with Staying in One Place and Finding Contentment
Have you ever felt like you’re constantly searching for “the next thing”—the next job, city, relationship, or adventure? Maybe you’ve found yourself restless, unable to settle, always wondering if you’re missing out on something better. This struggle isn’t just a modern problem; it’s deeply woven into the human experience.
So why do we find it so hard to stay in one place and be content? Why does our heart often feel like it’s perpetually chasing after something just out of reach?
In this blog, we’ll explore the spiritual, psychological, and cultural roots of restlessness and discover how to cultivate a contentment that isn’t dependent on circumstances but anchored in Someone eternal.
Be Where Your Feet Are: The Power of Presence
Have you ever been physically present but mentally somewhere else? Maybe you’re at the dinner table, but your mind is racing through tomorrow’s to-do list. Or perhaps you’re in church, singing the words but thinking about work deadlines or weekend plans. We’ve all been there. In a world filled with endless distractions, staying fully engaged in the moment can feel like an impossible task.
But what if there’s more to the present moment than we realize? What if God is inviting us to be where our feet are?
Why Serve in Romania? Answering the Call to Transform Lives
When Jesus commissioned His followers to “go and make disciples of all nations” (Matthew 28:19), He ignited a call to action that transcends geography, culture, and time. Today, that call is just as pressing, and one nation where the need for discipleship, hope, and restoration is profound is Romania. Specifically, underserved youth in Romania represent a group with enormous potential yet significant obstacles. Why should we serve in Romania? Let’s unpack the need, the opportunity, and the biblical mandate.
From Lukewarm to Zealous: The Letter to Laodicea
The letter to the church in Laodicea is perhaps the most well-known and convicting of the seven letters in Revelation. Jesus offers no commendation to this church, only a piercing rebuke: "I know your works: you are neither cold nor hot. Would that you were either cold or hot! So, because you are lukewarm, and neither hot nor cold, I will spit you out of my mouth" (Revelation 3:15-16, ESV).
The church at Laodicea had grown complacent, wealthy, and self-reliant, but it had lost its spiritual fervor. This letter is a wake-up call to all believers to examine the temperature of their faith and rekindle their zeal for Christ.
An Open Door of Faithfulness: The Letter to Philadelphia
The church in Philadelphia receives one of the most encouraging letters in Revelation. Unlike some of the other churches, Philadelphia is not rebuked but commended for its faithfulness and perseverance. Jesus identifies Himself as the Holy One who holds the key of David, emphasizing His authority to open and close doors that no one can alter.
This letter is a reminder of the blessings of faithfulness and the opportunities that arise when we trust in Christ and His sovereignty.
Reviving What Remains: The Letter to Sardis
The letter to the church in Sardis carries a sobering message. Unlike the other churches in Revelation, Sardis receives no commendation for faithfulness or endurance. Instead, Jesus issues a stark warning: "I know your works. You have the reputation of being alive, but you are dead" (Revelation 3:1, ESV). This church appeared vibrant on the outside, but spiritually, it was lifeless.
Jesus’ words to Sardis serve as a wake-up call for all believers. It’s a reminder that our faith must be authentic and alive, not a facade of spiritual activity.
Tolerating Jezebel: The Letter to Thyatira
The letter to the church in Thyatira is the longest of the seven letters in Revelation, despite being addressed to one of the smallest cities. Thyatira was a prosperous trade hub, known for its guilds and commerce. However, the economic and social pressures of the city created unique challenges for Christians. In this letter, Jesus commends the church for their love, faith, service, and perseverance but issues a stern rebuke for their tolerance of sin.
Holding Fast Amid Compromise: The Letter to Pergamum
The letter to the church in Pergamum is a powerful reminder of the tension between faithfulness and compromise. Pergamum was a city known for its idolatry, with temples dedicated to Zeus, Athena, and other gods. It was also the center of emperor worship, making it challenging for Christians to live out their faith. Despite this hostile environment, Jesus commends the church for holding fast to His name. However, He also warns them about the dangers of tolerating false teachings and moral compromise.
Faithful in Suffering: The Letter to Smyrna
The church in Smyrna was one of the few churches in Revelation that received no rebuke from Jesus. Instead, He offered words of encouragement and hope to this persecuted and suffering congregation. Despite facing extreme trials, the church remained faithful, holding onto the promises of Christ and the hope of eternal life. The letter to Smyrna is a testament to the power of perseverance in the face of adversity and reminds us that our faith is often refined through trials.
Rekindling Your First Love: The Letter to Ephesus
The Apostle John begins the letters to the seven churches in Revelation with a message to the church in Ephesus, a vibrant and influential congregation known for its hard work and doctrinal purity. Yet, Christ’s words to them cut straight to the heart: "But I have this against you, that you have abandoned the love you had at first" (Revelation 2:4, ESV).
This letter is a reminder that even the most active and doctrinally sound church can fall into the trap of losing sight of what matters most: an intimate, passionate love for Jesus Christ.
Embracing Transitions: Marking Life’s Significant Moments
Life is a journey punctuated by transitions. From starting a new job, moving to a different city, welcoming a child, or even saying goodbye to a loved one, transitions come in all shapes and sizes. These moments often define the trajectory of our lives, and how we navigate them can profoundly influence our growth and purpose. But how often do we take the time to intentionally mark these moments?
Setting Healthy Boundaries: Protecting Your Peace and Prioritizing Your Purpose
Life is full of demands. Between work, family, friendships, and ministry, it’s easy to feel stretched thin, overwhelmed, or even resentful. That’s why setting healthy boundaries is essential—not just to protect your peace, but to live intentionally, in line with God’s purpose for your life.
Boundaries aren’t walls to shut people out; they are gates that allow you to give and receive love, respect, and grace while safeguarding your time, energy, and emotional health. Let’s explore how to set and maintain boundaries that honor both God and others.
Setting and Following Through with Goals for 2025
As the calendar flips to a new year, we’re met with the fresh promise of 365 days to grow, achieve, and live purposefully. But how do we move beyond wishful resolutions into a year marked by meaningful accomplishments? It starts with setting clear, intentional goals and creating a plan to follow through.
What Death Teaches Us About Life
Death is an undeniable part of the human experience. Its inevitability often makes it a subject we avoid, yet it has a way of teaching us some of life’s most profound lessons. Paradoxically, when we confront death—whether through personal loss or moments of deep reflection—we often come to understand life more fully.
R-E-S-P-E-C-T: Why Respect and Honor Matter (and How to Live It Out)
Let’s face it: words like respect and honor might sound old-fashioned or reserved for strict classroom rules. But what if I told you that these two qualities are superpowers that can change your relationships, your reputation, and even your future? Whether it’s your parents, friends, teachers, or God, understanding and practicing respect and honor isn’t about following boring rules—it’s about learning to live with strength, purpose, and integrity.
Overcoming Grief During the Holidays: Finding Hope and Healing
The holiday season often evokes images of joy, laughter, and togetherness. But for those grieving, this time of year can amplify the ache of loss. Whether you are mourning the loss of a loved one, the loss of a relationship, or another significant part of your life, the holidays may feel like a painful reminder of what is missing. While grief is an inevitable part of the human experience, it does not have to consume you. With intentional steps, you can honor your grief, create space for healing, and discover hope even in the midst of the holidays.
Knowing Who’s You Are: Embracing Your Identity in Christ
In the Gospel of John, the disciple Peter never explicitly says, “I’m Christ’s favorite.” Yet, his boldness, his actions, and his willingness to take risks often demonstrate a man deeply rooted in his identity as a follower of Jesus. The confidence Peter exudes doesn’t come from pride or a sense of self-importance. Instead, it comes from knowing Who’s he was.
This distinction between pride and identity is crucial for us as believers. Pride seeks to elevate self. Identity, however, rests in the assurance of belonging. Peter’s actions weren’t about proving his worth; they were about living from a place of security in his relationship with Christ.
The Root of Christmas: A Journey from Eden to Bethlehem
As we enter the Christmas season, our minds often turn to nativity scenes, carols, and the story of a baby born in a manger. But the true story of Christmas begins much earlier – in fact, it starts at the very beginning, in the Garden of Eden.
The narrative of humanity's fall in Genesis 3 sets the stage for the greatest redemption story ever told. It's here, amidst the chaos of humanity's first sin, that we find the seeds of hope that would eventually blossom into the miracle of Christmas.
Don’t Settle: Pursue the Extraordinary
In a world that often offers quick fixes and instant gratification, it’s easy to settle. Settling feels safe. It doesn’t demand much from us. But here’s the truth: you were not created to live a life of mediocrity. You were made for something extraordinary.
The choices you make today determine the life you’ll live tomorrow. So, let’s talk about what it means not to settle and instead pursue the extraordinary.