Category: Spiritual Warfare

Walking in Your God-Given Confidence: Overcoming Jealousy, Criticism, and Toxic People

Published on by Editor

How to recognize and navigate jealousy, manipulation, and criticism — without dimming your light or losing your peace.

When you start experiencing strange reactions at work—or in any environment—such as jealousy, unnecessary opposition, people talking behind your back, or being treated like a threat, it’s easy to think something is wrong with you. In reality, it’s a sign of God’s hand on you.

What you’re going through is the same spiritual pattern that affected David, Joseph, and most of all, Jesus. People are reacting to your light, your anointing, and your confidence—not to anything you’ve done wrong.

Confidence Attracts Criticism

Confidence can attract criticism. When you begin to walk in your purpose, stand firm, and reflect true inner strength, your energy naturally exposes the insecurities of others. The reactions you receive often aren’t about you—they are about what your light reveals in them.

If you walk with faith, knowing you carry God’s Holy Spirit, your confidence becomes more than personal pride—it becomes spiritual purpose. In that truth, some people will feel threatened. No one should have to dim their light to accommodate someone else’s darkness. Shine bright, because when you carry the Light of God, your glow pierces through the darkness—and that often agitates hidden demons.

Confidence is a powerful thing. Not the loud, boastful kind that demands attention, but the steady, grounded assurance that comes from knowing who you are, whose you are, and what you carry inside of you. For many, that kind of confidence is inspiring. But for others, it exposes their insecurities—and that’s when certain behaviors begin to emerge…

Biblical Examples

David: Attacked for His Anointing, Not His Actions

David did nothing to Saul.

He honored him. He served him. He played music for him. He killed Goliath for Israel.

And still—Saul hated him. Why? Because Saul felt threatened by David’s favor, confidence, and God-given anointing.

“Saul was afraid of David because the LORD was with David.” — 1 Samuel 18:12

Your coworkers aren’t necessarily threatened by your words or actions. Your presence bothers them. Your confidence exposes their insecurity. Your light irritates their darkness. Just like David.

Joseph: Hated for His Dreams

Joseph’s brothers didn’t hate him because he did something wrong. They hated him because of what God placed in him:

His dreams His favor His calling His confidence His future greatness

Those things stirred jealousy and insecurity in others.

“They hated him even more because of his dream and his words.” — Genesis 37:8

Sometimes people react not to who you are right now, but to who you’re becoming. They can sense potential. They can feel elevation coming. Your destiny bothers their demons.

Jesus: Rejected for His Light

If the perfect Son of God was criticized, attacked, mocked, misunderstood, and plotted against, we can expect to experience the same.

Jesus didn’t dim His light to make others comfortable. He didn’t shrink to ease their insecurity. He walked fully in His calling—even when the religious leaders were irritated by His authority, confidence, and truth.

“The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.” — John 1:5

Your confidence and spiritual glow are not arrogance—they are evidence of what you carry. And darkness always reacts to light.

The Truth About What You’re Experiencing

Your confidence threatens their insecurity. Your favor threatens their ego. Your light disturbs their shadows. Your potential makes them uneasy. Your spirit irritates whatever is unhealed or unclean in them.

It’s not personal—it’s spiritual. You’re not the problem. You’re the proof that God’s presence is with you.

Common Reactions When You’re Confident (and Why They Happen)

When Your Presence Disturbs Their Demons

There is a moment when your confidence, peace, and sense of purpose begin to irritate the insecurity in others. You may not be doing anything except existing—but your light naturally exposes their shadows.

Attempts to “Humble” or Undermine You

When someone sees confidence—especially grounded confidence—they may feel threatened. Individuals intimidated by your presence might try to “humble” you: making underhanded comments, subtle put-downs, or dismissive remarks. This often comes not from malice, but from their own lack: they crave the self-assurance you show.

Mislabeling Confidence as Arrogance

There’s a difference between arrogance and grounded confidence. But people who feel insecure may interpret your calm assurance as arrogance or pretension. That mislabeling is less about you, more about their discomfort.

Emotional Withdrawal or Distance

When someone’s insecurity is triggered, they may unconsciously pull away—even without confrontation. Your growth reminds them of stagnation; your light exposes their shadows. That distance isn’t about you changing, but about them feeling exposed.

Passive-Aggressive Behaviour or Criticism

People whose self-worth is shaky may resort to harsh judgments, criticism, or negativity—sometimes subtle, sometimes overt—as a defense mechanism. This kind of reaction is often a projection of their inner fear and jealousy.

Competition, Comparison, or Resentment

Your success or confidence can activate rivalry or envy in those who are still battling their own doubts. Instead of celebrating you, they might compete, compare, or resent you—not because you sought competition, but because your light challenges their comfort zone.

Why You Should Keep Shining — Especially If You’re Rooted in Faith

Your light isn’t vanity—it’s testimony. If your confidence stems from your faith and identity in God, then what you carry is sacred. Your strength and clarity reflect something higher than mere self-worth: they show the power of the Holy Spirit. Your light may irritate darkness. True brightness exposes hidden shadows. That discomfort in others is not your burden—it’s the mirror of what’s inside them. Your path can inspire others to step into their own light. When you stay steadfast, you give others permission to trust their value, walk confidently, and stop dimming their glow out of fear.

What Staying Confident Looks Like in Everyday Life — Without Shame or Conceit

Holding to self-assurance with humility: knowing your worth doesn’t make you better than others—just grounded. Continuing your growth and calling—even when others resist or criticise. Responding to negativity with peace, not defensiveness—because your identity and confidence aren’t rooted in external approval. Using your light to lift—not tear down—others; being a mirror of God’s love, not a source of division.

When Your Confidence Exposes Darkness in Others

Many people don’t realize they are experiencing narcissistic behavior, especially the kind that gets triggered when someone feels threatened by another person’s confidence, competence, or God-given light.

And here’s the important truth: narcissists are most reactive toward people who carry clarity, confidence, peace, and favor — because those traits expose their insecurity and lack of control.

Narcissistic Behavior in the Workplace — Why Your Confidence Triggers It

Narcissistic personalities thrive on:

control, admiration, dominance, feeling superior, keeping others “small.”

So when someone walks in with:

confidence, competence, peace, emotional stability, spiritual grounding and a strong identity… it threatens them deeply.

They respond with behaviors like:

Subtle put-downs, Gossip, competing with you, Trying to undermine you, Getting angry when you don’t fold, Silent treatment, Passive aggression, Triangulation (turning others against you), Acting like you are the problem. That’s textbook narcissistic insecurity. Narcissists can sense strength — and they don’t like it.

The Spiritual Side: Why Narcissists Are Triggered by Light

As stated before: “Your light irritates their demons.”

Narcissistic traits thrive in:

Insecurity, pride, ego, manipulation, control, fear

Light — especially God-given light — threatens that darkness.

People with narcissistic tendencies feel uncomfortable around:

truth, confidence, kindness, emotional maturity, spiritual discernment, genuine peace

Those qualities expose them.

Just like Saul was triggered by David, Joseph’s brothers were triggered by him, and the Pharisees were triggered by Jesus. Narcissists are triggered by people who walk in identity and favor.

The More Confident You Become, the More Their Mask Slips

Narcissists cannot stand when someone:

Who isn’t intimidated, doesn’t seek their approval, doesn’t fold under pressure, stays calm, stays grounded, stays joyful

Your presence reveals everything they try to hide.

The Biblical Pattern + Psychology = The Full Picture

David triggered Saul’s narcissistic jealousy. Joseph triggered his brothers’ envy and inferiority. Jesus triggered the Pharisees’ pride and insecurity.

In every case: The chosen one wasn’t doing anything wrong, the opposition came from insecurity, the behaviour manipulative, controlling, or abusive. Note the chosen person rose anyway. That’s narcissistic behavior in Scripture and today.

What You’re Experiencing: “The Narcissistic Infection Effect”

A single toxic person can shift the entire atmosphere. This happens when they begin:

Gossiping subtly

They plant seeds, not full accusations—just “concerns,” “observations,” or “jokes.” People absorb it without realizing they’ve been influenced.

Turning people against you (Triangulation)

They’ll use phrases like: “Everyone has noticed…” “People have been saying…” “I just thought you should know…” It’s all manipulation.

Playing the victim

They make themselves seem mistreated, threatened, or uncomfortable, so people rally around them.

Acting like the ‘concerned friend’

This masks their jealousy, insecurity, and desire for control.

Slowly isolating you

They want others to see you through THEIR filter.

This is exactly how toxic personalities create an environment where people turn cold, distant, or judgmental—without you doing a single thing wrong.

Why They Chose You as the Target

Narcissistic or insecure people target those who are:

confident skilled liked spiritually grounded independent thinkers not easily manipulated not intimidated

Your presence exposes their insecurity, so their goal becomes: “If I can’t shine, I’ll dim THEIR light.”

But here’s the thing: you can only dim someone’s light if they allow it. You haven’t—and that’s why they’re escalating.

How They “Infect” Others

Weak or insecure people around them become:

Easily influenced — They don’t want to be the next target, so they go along. Afraid to speak up — They would rather join the crowd than stand alone. Emotionally manipulated — They think they’re being loyal, but they’re being used. Pulled into the drama — Because the narcissist makes it seem like YOU are the problem.

This creates a team-vs-you dynamic. It’s spiritual and psychological at the same time.

Joseph: One jealous brother poisoned the others. He didn’t just hate Joseph—he infected the whole group.

David: Saul turned the Israelites against David with lies and fear.

Jesus: The Pharisees convinced crowds who loved Him to turn on Him through influence and manipulation.

One insecure person can change an entire crowd’s perspective—until the truth comes out.

The Good News: The “Infection” Never Lasts

Toxic influence burns out. The truth always reveals itself. People eventually see the manipulator for who they are.

And the one they targeted ends up elevated.

Just like:

Joseph became ruler

David became king

Jesus rose in glory

When One Narcissistic Person Infects a Whole Workplace

A single insecure, narcissistic, or manipulative person begins influencing others. This is a documented psychological pattern known as:

triangulation, flying monkeys, group manipulation, narcissistic projection, smear campaigning.

A narcissist cannot stand someone they cannot control, intimidate, or overshadow. So they use indirect tactics to isolate you:

Planting seeds of doubt — “observations,” “concerns,” or “warnings.”

Gossiping subtly — words dripping with poison disguised as concern.

Recruiting others — not for truth, but fear of your strength.

Playing the victim — acting hurt, threatened, or “uncomfortable.”

Turning people against you — making you appear like the problem.

Before long, people who once treated you warmly act differently—not because of who you are, but because of the lies they’ve absorbed. One toxic individual can contaminate an entire environment.

Psychological Reality Meets Spiritual Truth

Narcissists are drawn to targets who are:

confident, don’t seek approval, can’t be controlled, peaceful, purposeful, spiritually grounded.

Your presence threatens their ego. Your confidence threatens their façade. Your peace threatens their chaos. Your purpose threatens their stagnation.

In other words: Your light irritates everything in them that is dark, unhealed, or insecure. This is both psychological truth and spiritual warfare.

A Pattern Seen in Scripture: David, Joseph, and Jesus

David: Saul hated him not because of wrongdoing, but because he carried God’s favor. He manipulated others, lied, twisted narratives, and attacked David’s character.

Joseph: One jealous brother stirred up the others. They attacked him for what God placed within him—not for anything he did.

Jesus: The Pharisees manipulated crowds, twisted words, and smeared His character.

One insecure person can turn many cold—until truth is revealed.

The Good News: Narcissistic Influence Never Lasts

Though manipulation can poison an environment temporarily, it never stands forever. Truth surfaces. Light wins against darkness. The one targeted rises.

Just like:

Joseph became ruler

David became king

Jesus fulfilled His purpose

You will rise too. Your confidence and identity in God make you unshakeable. Your purpose is too great for their insecurity to destroy. Your light is too bright for their darkness to dim.

Final Word: Keep Shining — Never Dim Your Light for Darkness

What you’re experiencing is not personal—it’s spiritual and psychological.

Confidence exposes insecurity. Light exposes darkness. Purpose exposes jealousy. Favor exposes pride.

Narcissists react to what they feel threatened by, not who you truly are.

So keep shining. Keep walking in your purpose. Keep carrying the Holy Spirit with boldness. Never dim your God-given light to make someone else comfortable in their darkness.

Your rise is coming. Nothing—and no one—can stop what God has ordained.

———————

** By Ricardo Gomez Angel at Unsplash

7 Truths About Halloween Every Christian Needs to Know

Published on by Editor

Should Christians celebrate Halloween? Every year, this question stirs conversations among believers. Some say it’s harmless fun, just costumes and candy. Others sense something darker behind it. But what does the Bible say? In this post, “7 Truths About Halloween Every Christian Needs to Know,” I’ll share seven biblical reasons why followers of Jesus should stay away from this holiday and walk in the light instead of darkness.

The Bible’s Warning About Fellowship with Darkness

In 1 Corinthians 10:14–22, Paul warns believers to flee from idol worship. He reminds us that while idols themselves are nothing, demons hide behind them. When we participate in pagan practices, we are not just engaging in culture, we are having fellowship with demons.

Paul outlined four principles for Christians living in a pagan society:

  1. Meat in the market – Buy it without worrying about where it came from.
  2. Invitation to dinner – Eat freely unless someone tells you the food was offered to idols.
  3. Eating in temple restaurants – It’s fine unless it causes a weaker believer to stumble.
  4. Pagan temple parties – Do not attend, because they involve fellowship with demons.

So when we think about Halloween, which of these do you think it resembles? Is it a casual dinner or a pagan party? I believe it’s more like the latter. Here’s why.

1. The Origins of Halloween Are Pagan

Halloween’s roots go back to an ancient Celtic festival called Samhain. People believed the veil between the physical and spiritual worlds was thinnest on October 31. They wore costumes to ward off evil spirits, lit bonfires, and practiced rituals to communicate with the dead.

Even today, those in witchcraft and occult circles view Halloween as a sacred night. The Bible clearly instructs believers not to imitate the customs of those who practice sorcery or divination. God told His people in Leviticus 18:3, “Do not follow their practices.” Some things can be redeemed, others must be removed. Halloween falls into the latter.

2. Halloween Means More Than Candy to Those in Witchcraft

For many, Halloween is just about treats and costumes. But for those involved in witchcraft and Satanism, it’s one of the most spiritually charged nights of the year.

Anton LaVey, the founder of the Church of Satan, once said he was glad that Christian parents let their kids “worship the devil at least one night a year.” While we don’t take his words as truth, they reveal how significant Halloween is for the dark side.

As Christians, we must recognize that what the world sees as entertainment, the enemy sees as opportunity. We can’t mix light with darkness.

3. Halloween Has Not Been Redeemed for God

Some Christians try to “redeem” Halloween by hosting alternative events. But let’s be honest, Halloween is darker today than ever before. The rise of witchcraft, horror films, and fascination with the demonic proves that culture isn’t being redeemed, it’s being hijacked.

The early church responded to pagan celebrations by creating All Saints’ Dayon November 1 to honor godly men and women. Yet the evening before, All Hallows’ Eve, eventually turned into what we know as Halloween. Instead of becoming more Christian, it became more demonic.

You can’t purify what was designed to glorify darkness. Sometimes, the most spiritual thing we can do is separate instead of repackage.

If you want to learn how to close every open door to the enemy and live fully free in Christ, read my book Make the Devil Homeless. It will help you take authority and keep the devil out of your life for good.

4. Celebrating Halloween Is Conforming to Culture

Many Christians celebrate Halloween out of fear of looking strange or missing out. But Scripture tells us in Romans 12:2, “Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.”

When we join in the same celebrations as the world, especially ones rooted in darkness, we blur the line between holy and unholy. Daniel didn’t bow to Babylon’s idols to fit in. Neither should we.

The world promotes spirituality without Christ, supernatural experiences without truth, and darkness disguised as fun. We are called to be set apart, not strange, but different because of Jesus.

5. Halloween Promotes Darkness, Death, and Fear

Christianity celebrates life, light, and faith, not darkness, death, and fear. The Bible says in 1 John 4:18, “Perfect love casts out fear.”

Think about it. Halloween glorifies skulls, ghosts, and the grave. It celebrates the night rather than the light. The only death Christians celebrate is the death of Jesus, which defeated sin and death once and for all.

Jesus is the Light of the World, and He calls us to reflect His light. You can’t do that while participating in what glorifies fear and evil.

6. Halloween Is Fellowship with the Works of Darkness

Paul wrote in Ephesians 5:8–11, “Have no fellowship with the unfruitful works of darkness, but rather expose them.”

If you walk into any store in October, what do you see? Ghosts, witches, blood, horror, and fear. Nothing about it reflects light, faith, or purity. We don’t need to wait for a label saying “this is demonic” to know what is dark.

When you participate in Halloween, even “innocently,” you are still engaging with what Scripture calls unfruitful. Light cannot coexist with darkness.

7. Halloween Activities Don’t Honor the Lord

Finally, many of the activities tied to Halloween simply don’t honor God. Dressing up as demons, witches, or provocative characters grieves the Holy Spirit. The Bible says in 1 John 2:15–17, “Do not love the world or the things in the world.”

Halloween often involves drunkenness, drugs, and identity confusion. On this night, people pretend to be something they’re not, while the world is already drowning in confusion about identity. Why would we join that?

Satanists don’t celebrate Good Friday, so why should we celebrate their holiday? We don’t owe darkness a single day of our devotion.

What We Should Celebrate Instead

Instead of joining in with Halloween, let’s turn our focus to what truly matters as believers. This season is a perfect time to lift up the name of Jesus and celebrate what He has done for us.

  1. Celebrate the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus. That’s where our victory over sin and darkness was won. Every day is Resurrection Sunday for those who walk in His light.
  2. Celebrate the light of God’s Word.His Word drives out darkness and gives direction when the world around us feels confused and lost.
  3. Celebrate faith over fear. Fear opens the door to torment, but faith opens the door to peace. When you trust the Holy Spirit, you live with confidence and courage.
  4. Celebrate purity instead of popularity. Holiness will never go out of style in heaven. Choosing what pleases God, even when it’s unpopular, brings real joy and freedom.
  5. Celebrate evangelism over entertainment. While others give out candy, give out hope. Use this time to share the gospel with someone who needs Jesus.

When the world grows darker, the light of Christ in us should shine even brighter. Don’t just avoid Halloween. Use this time to glorify Jesus and show that real joy is found in Him.

When you understand its origins, its meaning, and the spiritual influence behind it, it becomes clear that Halloween does not belong in the life of a believer.

We are called to walk in holiness and reflect Christ in everything we do. There is no fellowship between light and darkness. Instead of filling our homes with fear and shadows, let’s fill them with worship, prayer, and faith.

Light does not hide from darkness. It exposes it. Let the light of Jesus shine through your life.

——————-

** By Vlad Savchuk / Photo by Vlad Chețan at Pexels

A Seed Sown in Blood: God’s Harvest Will Come

Published on by Editor

“Unless a grain of wheat falls into the earth and dies, it remains alone; but if it dies, it bears much fruit.” — John 12:24

Praise be to God, His ways are not our ways. We cannot always see the tapestry He is weaving, but we trust His sovereign hand.

Think of a tapestry: from one side, it may look like tangled threads, messy and confusing. That’s life to us — tragedy, loss, unanswered questions. But God sees the other side, the complete design. Every thread, every knot, every act of faith fits perfectly into His eternal plan.

The world may see sacrifice as defeat. God sees it as a seed — planted, watered, and destined to bear fruit. What the enemy means for evil, God turns for good. What the world celebrates as loss, heaven declares as victory.

God Has Done This Before

This pattern is clear throughout Scripture and history. When Stephen was stoned, the enemies of Christ thought they had silenced him. Instead, his death became the spark that spread the gospel throughout Jerusalem and beyond. Even Saul, who approved Stephen’s killing, became Paul the apostle — carrying the message of Jesus Christ to the nations.

In 1956, Jim Elliot and four other missionaries gave their lives in Ecuador, speared by the Huaorani tribe they sought to reach. At first it looked like a tragedy, but it was a seed. Later, many from that tribe turned to Jesus Christ — including some who had taken part in the killings. Jim’s wife, Elisabeth Elliot, returned with forgiveness, and God used their sacrifice to bring an entire people to Himself.

Consider Dietrich Bonhoeffer, executed by the Nazis for standing firm in Jesus in the face of tyranny. His writings and courage still stir hearts worldwide, and his death became a seed of boldness for generations to stand firm in Christ.

Today, the persecuted church continues this pattern. In China, Iran, North Korea, Nigeria, and beyond, believers are imprisoned, beaten, and even killed for faith in Jesus Christ. Yet the gospel grows even in the most difficult circumstances. What seems like weakness or loss is transformed by God into multiplication — because Jesus Christ is Lord of life and death.

And in our own time, the life and witness of Charlie Kirk reminds us that even today, standing for truth and righteousness in a hostile world can plant seeds that God will grow. His life and sacrifice are part of this ongoing tapestry.

Above all, we look to Jesus Christ. He is the ultimate example. The cross looked like the end — the darkest day in history. The world mocked, and the disciples were discouraged. But three days later, the stone was rolled away, and Jesus rose in power. His blood was not spilled in vain — it purchased salvation for all who believe. Every martyr since has simply followed in His steps, pointing to His finished work.

The Harvest Is Coming

Church, let us not shrink back. Let us rise, emboldened. The seed has been planted, and the Spirit of Jesus is moving.

A generation that hardens itself against truth will be pierced to the heart, just as those who heard Peter on Pentecost. Out of this shaking, multitudes will come into the Shepherd’s fold — all to the glory of Jesus Christ.

Charlie’s life and the lives of all martyrs become a call — not of despair, but of awakening. God will answer. Watch and see: there will be a mighty harvest!

“All the ends of the earth shall remember and turn to the Lord, and all the families of the nations shall worship before You.” — Psalm 22:27

Encouragement for Everyday Believers

You do not need to be famous or a public figure to participate in God’s plan. Every act of faithfulness, every prayer, every stand for truth in love is a seed. You may not see it grow, but God is at work behind the scenes.

“Every act of obedience, even unseen, contributes to His eternal design.”

Psalm 90:12 reminds us: “Teach us to number our days, that we may gain a heart of wisdom.” God’s timing is perfect — even when we do not understand it. Ecclesiastes 3:1 assures us: “There is a time for everything…”

Trust the tapestry. Trust the threads you cannot yet see.

A Word of Comfort

To those who grieve, may you be strengthened and given grace. May Jesus draw near to your broken hearts, comforting you in your loss.

Death is not the end for those who believe in Christ. The moment the body falls, the spirit is received into the arms of Jesus.

“To be absent from the body is to be present with the Lord — for those who trust in Him.” — 2 Corinthians 5:8

May we hold fast to the hope we have in Christ — the hope of resurrection, the hope of eternal life, and the hope that one day every tear will be wiped away. Their race is finished, their crown of life secured, their rest eternal.

Every martyr points us to the cross — where Jesus Himself conquered death. And through that victory, all who repent and believe in Him share in the same hope: everlasting life.

The Gospel

Charlie and all faithful servants would not want this moment to end without the message that defined their lives: Jesus Christ. His boldness did not come from politics or self, but from the Word of God and the person of Jesus Christ.

We are all sinners, separated from God by our rebellion and pride. “For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.” — Romans 3:23

Sin earns death — not only physical death, but eternal separation from God. “For the wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.” — Romans 6:23

God, in His mercy, sent His Son Jesus to die in our place, to take the penalty we deserved. “But God shows His love for us in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us.” — Romans 5:8

Jesus did not remain in the grave — He rose from the dead, defeating sin and death once for all.

To be saved, you must repent and trust in Him. “If you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised Him from the dead, you will be saved.” — Romans 10:9

That is the hope every martyr carried. That is why they stood fearless. They knew death was not the end, but the beginning of eternity with Jesus Christ.

A Call to Respond

If your heart is stirred, God is calling you today. Salvation comes through repentance — turning away from sin, which is anything we know is wrong or that separates us from God — and trusting Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior.

Repentance means acknowledging your sins, asking God to forgive them, and choosing to turn from them with His help. Trusting Jesus means believing His death on the cross paid for your sins, that He rose again, and that He is alive to guide, strengthen, and transform your life.

You can respond with a simple prayer, such as:

“Lord Jesus, I repent of my sins. I turn from all that I know is wrong and turn to You. I believe You died for me and rose again. I trust You as my Lord and Savior. Take my life, forgive me, and make me Yours forever. Amen.”

When you do this, you are forgiven, welcomed into God’s family, and given the Holy Spirit to guide you every day. Your old life begins to be transformed, and your eternal life with Christ begins.

“Repent therefore, and turn again, that your sins may be blotted out.” — Acts 3:19

“Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.” — Romans 10:13

Stand. Believe. Live.

—-————

**Photo by Mikhail Nilov at Pexels

A Modern-Day Stephen: Why Charlie Kirk’s Death Must Wake Us Up

Published on by Editor

In the wake of the assassination of Charlie Kirk, I cannot stay silent. He stood for righteousness, confronted lies, and reminded me of Stephen in the book of Acts — bold, unflinching, refuting nonsense with truth. And just like then, the world couldn’t stand to hear it. So, they killed him.

“Have I then become your enemy by telling you the truth?” — Galatians 4:16

The Pattern of Hatred

Stephen spoke with wisdom and spirit that his enemies could not refute. They plugged their ears, gnashed their teeth, and raged against the truth until they stoned him. Charlie faced the same spirit — a generation that hates the light, calls good evil and evil good, and literally shoots down anyone who dares to dissent, celebrating and rejoicing at his death.

“Woe to those who call evil good and good evil, who put darkness for light and light for darkness.” — Isaiah 5:20

We are watching the same story unfold. Then it was Stephen. Now it is Charlie. The names change, but the hatred for truth remains the same.

The Death of “Tolerance”

We are told to value “inclusion.” Yet the same voices that preach tolerance exclude anyone who refuses to bow. Disagreement is no longer allowed; only silence or surrender. “Let’s agree to disagree” has been replaced by “submit or be destroyed.”

As one supporter put it: “Charlie Kirk did not spread hate speech. He spread speech the left hated.”

And as George R.R. Martin warned: “When you tear out a man’s tongue, you are not proving him a liar, you’re only telling the world that you fear what he might say.”

What once was free debate is now suppression. What once was respect for dissent is now cancellation and violence. We have abandoned even Voltaire’s simple creed:

“I disapprove of what you say, but I will defend to the death your right to say it.”

Charlie refused to bow. He refused to surrender. He stood. And they could not endure it.

The Real Danger: Our Silence

His death woke me up out of my slumber, I pray it has awoken you too. And I will not go back. Because the greatest danger isn’t their hatred — it’s our silence. For too long we have remained silent when we could have spoken truth in love. Christian witness is not loud anger but faithful proclamation, even when it draws opposition.

Martyrdom is a megaphone. Stephen’s death shook Jerusalem. Charlie’s death must shake us. This is not the time to retreat.

“Do not be afraid of those who kill the body but cannot kill the soul.” — Matthew 10:28

The Rallying Cry

We will not shrink from speaking the truth in love. We will not be silenced, for our mission is to proclaim God’s Word, even when it is unpopular. We were born to stand in faith, to proclaim truth patiently and lovingly, trusting God with the results.

“You stiff-necked people, uncircumcised in heart and ears! You always resist the Holy Spirit.” — Stephen, Acts 7:51

A Word of Comfort

To those who knew Charlie, who mourn his loss, and to those who are curious why he stood so boldly: hear this truth. Death is not the end for those who believe in Christ. The moment Charlie’s body fell, his spirit was received into the arms of Jesus.

“To be absent from the body is to be present with the Lord — for those who trust in Him.” — 2 Corinthians 5:8

Stephen, as he was stoned, looked up and saw Jesus standing at the right hand of God, ready to receive him. And I believe the same Lord stood to welcome Charlie home. Like Stephen, who prayed for those who stoned him (‘Lord, do not hold this sin against them’ — Acts 7:60), we are called to hold truth and grace together — to speak boldly but forgive freely. May we also be reminded to number our days, trusting the Lord to decide the span of our lives, and to live faithfully in the time He gives us.

For those who grieve, may you be strengthened and given grace. May Jesus draw near to your broken hearts, comforting you in your loss.

Though he will be deeply missed, let us hold fast to the hope we have in Christ — the hope of resurrection, the hope of eternal life, and the hope that one day every tear will be wiped away. His race is finished, his crown of life secured, his rest eternal.

But his story is not over. Because every martyr points us to the cross — where Jesus Himself conquered death. And through that victory, all who repent and believe in Him will share in the same hope: everlasting life.

Born for Such a Time as This

Charlie Kirk — a modern-day Stephen — has joined the cloud of witnesses who stood unashamed for truth. His blood is not wasted. His voice is not silenced.

“The blood of the martyrs is the seed of the Church.” — Tertullian

Like Stephen’s martyrdom sparked Saul’s conversion and propelled the gospel outward, so too will Charlie’s stand spark awakening.

“Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight… and run with endurance the race that is set before us.” — Hebrews 12:1

If they thought ending Charlie’s life would silence the truth, they are mistaken. His witness lives on in those who speak faithfully and lovingly for Christ. Like Stephen’s death, his example inspires boldness and truth to spread like fire. His voice continues through us as we proclaim God’s Word with courage and love.

“For if you remain silent at this time, relief and deliverance… will arise from another place. But who knows whether you have come to the kingdom for such a time as this?” — Esther 4:14

We were born for such a time as this. Not to shrink back. Not to compromise truth. Not to hide our faith. We were born to stand in faith, to proclaim God’s Word with courage and love, and to trust Him with the results.

The Gospel Charlie Believed and Preached

Charlie would not want this moment to end without the message that defined his life: Jesus Christ. His boldness did not come from politics, or from himself — it came from the Word of God and the person of Jesus Christ.

Here is that message:

We are all sinners, separated from God by our rebellion and pride. “For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.” — Romans 3:23

Sin earns death — not only physical death, but eternal separation from God. “For the wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.” — Romans 6:23

God, in His mercy, sent His Son Jesus to die in our place, to take the penalty we deserved. “But God shows His love for us in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us.” — Romans 5:8

Jesus did not remain in the grave — He rose from the dead, defeating sin and death once for all. To be saved, you must repent and trust in Him. “If you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised Him from the dead, you will be saved.” — Romans 10:9

That is the hope Charlie carried. That is the reason he stood fearless. He knew death was not the end, but the beginning of eternity with Christ.

A Call to Respond

If your heart is stirred, God is calling you today. Salvation comes through repentance — turning away from sin, which is anything we know is wrong or that separates us from God — and trusting Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior.

Repentance means honestly acknowledging your sins, asking God to forgive them, and choosing to turn from them with His help. Trusting Jesus means believing that His death on the cross paid for your sins, that He rose again, and that He is alive to guide, strengthen, and transform your life.

You can respond with a simple prayer, such as:

“Lord Jesus, I repent of my sins. I turn from all that I know is wrong and turn to You. I believe You died for me and rose again. I trust You as my Lord and Savior. Take my life, forgive me, and make me Yours forever. Amen.”

When you do this, you are forgiven, welcomed into God’s family, and given the Holy Spirit to guide you every day. Your old life begins to be transformed, and your eternal life with Christ begins.

“Repent therefore, and turn again, that your sins may be blotted out.” — Acts 3:19

“Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.” — Romans 10:13

Charlie is with Christ now, and his witness continues through every person who stands for truth and every heart that responds to Jesus. Stand. Believe. Live.

What next? 

If you prayed this prayer and want guidance on how to grow in your new life with Christ, this resource will help you take the next steps:

7 Things To Do After Getting Saved

7-things-to-do-after-getting-saved-copy-copy.pdf

Read article responding to God’s call:

Responding to God’s Call: Salvation, Repentance and Eternal Life

——————

Pic courtesy: Facebook/ Charlie Kirk

5 Ways to Be Dressed Ready for Service

Published on by Editor

The Bible often uses the imagery of clothing to describe the believer’s readiness to serve God. When Jesus told His disciples, “Be dressed ready for service and keep your lamps burning” (Luke 12:35), He was not talking about garments of fabric, but garments of the heart. To be “dressed” in the biblical sense means to be spiritually prepared, equipped, and vigilant—ready at all times to live for Christ and serve others.

1. The Call to Readiness

In the days of Jesus, servants who were “dressed for service” had their belts fastened and robes tucked in, prepared to work or travel at a moment’s notice. Likewise, believers are called to live with an attitude of expectancy, not distracted by worldly cares, but alert and watchful for the Lord’s return.

Readiness is not a passive waiting—it is active, faithful living. It means that at any given moment, our lives should reflect obedience, faith, and love.

2. The Armor of God (Ephesians 6:10–18)

The apostle Paul describes a spiritual uniform that equips the believer for service and battle against spiritual opposition:

Belt of Truth – Living with integrity and holding firmly to God’s truth.

Breastplate of Righteousness – Guarding our hearts by living in alignment with God’s commands.

Shoes of the Gospel of Peace – Ready to share the Good News wherever we go.

Shield of Faith – Trusting God in all circumstances, extinguishing doubts and lies.

Helmet of Salvation – Protecting our minds with the assurance of God’s saving work.

Sword of the Spirit – Applying God’s Word to discern truth and resist temptation.

Prayer – The lifeline that empowers and sustains all spiritual readiness.

3. Clothed in Christlike Character (Colossians 3:12–14)

Service to God is not just about defense against the enemy; it is also about reflecting Christ’s love to the world. Paul writes:

“Clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience… And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity.”

When we put on these virtues daily, we become living demonstrations of God’s kingdom—our service becomes both practical and spiritual.

4. Lamps Burning Bright

Jesus adds, “keep your lamps burning” (Luke 12:35), a picture of ongoing spiritual vitality. Just as a lamp requires oil to stay lit, our hearts require the continual filling of the Holy Spirit through prayer, worship, and God’s Word. A ready servant is one who is spiritually alive and shining brightly in a dark world.

5. Living the Prepared Life

To be dressed ready for service means:

Living with watchfulness for Christ’s return. Equipping yourself daily with God’s truth and righteousness. Walking in love, kindness, and humility. Staying spiritually alert through prayer and Scripture. Being available for God’s work at any time.

When our spiritual garments are in place, we are not only protected but also positioned to bless others and honor our Lord.

Conclusion

The Christian life is not a call to occasional acts of devotion but to a constant state of readiness. Whether in times of joy or hardship, the true servant of Christ is always dressed—spiritually armed, clothed in love, and fueled by the Spirit—ready to serve the Master until He comes.

“Blessed is that servant whom the master finds doing so when he comes” (Luke 12:43).

————————

** Photo by Tima Miroshnichenko at Pexels