HIGH FIVE! (请耐心一点，一切都会好起来的)

Significance of 1 Corinthians 3:10-23

In this passage, Paul reminds believers that Jesus Christ is the only true foundation, and that every Christian is actively building upon that foundation with their life, service, character, and doctrine. The emphasis is not merely on starting well, but on building faithfully for eternity.

1. Core Takeaways

1. Christ Is the Only Foundation (vv. 10-11)

Paul compares himself to a skilled builder who laid the foundation of the church. That foundation is Jesus Christ.

Significance:

• Salvation is built on Christ alone.
• No pastor, teacher, denomination, or good work can replace Him.
• A strong spiritual life begins and ends with Jesus.

2. Believers Are Building for Eternity (vv. 12-15)

Paul describes two categories of building materials:

Valuable

• Gold
• Silver
• Precious stones

Perishable

• Wood
• Hay
• Straw

One day, God will test each believer’s work by fire.

Significance:

• God evaluates quality, not merely quantity.
• Motives matter.
• Faithful obedience produces eternal rewards.
• Busy activity without spiritual substance may not endure.

This is not a test of salvation but a test of a believer’s works.

3. Salvation and Reward Are Different Things (v. 15)

Paul says some believers may suffer loss of reward yet still be saved.

Significance:

• Salvation is by God’s grace.
• Rewards are connected to faithful service.
• Christians should desire not only to be saved, but to hear, “Well done.”

4. Believers Are God’s Temple (vv. 16-17)

The church collectively is described as God’s temple where His Spirit dwells.

Significance:

• The church is sacred to God.
• Divisions, jealousy, and destruction within the body are serious offenses.
• God takes the health of His people personally.

5. God’s Wisdom Differs from Human Wisdom (vv. 18-20)

Paul warns believers not to boast in worldly wisdom.

Significance:

• The world admires intelligence, influence, and status.
• God values humility, faith, and obedience.
• Spiritual maturity often looks different from worldly success.

6. Everything Belongs to God’s People Through Christ (vv. 21-23)

Paul concludes by saying believers should not boast in human leaders because all things belong to them through Christ.

Significance:

• Christians already possess immense spiritual riches.
• We do not need to elevate human leaders above Christ.
• Our identity is found in Jesus, not in personalities or earthly achievements.

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Revelation 12 Style Significance Table

Passage Element	Immediate Meaning	Spiritual Significance
Foundation of Christ	Jesus is the church’s foundation	Everything in the Christian life depends on Him
Gold, Silver, Precious Stones	Faithful, enduring works	Eternal rewards and lasting impact
Wood, Hay, Straw	Weak or self-centered works	Things that will not survive God’s evaluation
Fire Testing the Work	God’s judgment of believers’ service	Reveals true motives and spiritual quality
God’s Temple	The church indwelt by the Spirit	Believers are sacred and set apart
Wisdom of the World	Human pride and self-reliance	Can hinder spiritual growth
All Things Are Yours	Spiritual inheritance in Christ	Believers possess eternal riches through Jesus

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What This Passage Reveals About God

• God is a Builder who establishes His work on Christ.
• God evaluates faithfulness, not appearances.
• God dwells among His people through His Spirit.
• God protects His church.
• God rewards obedience.
• God sees beyond earthly wisdom and values eternal truth.

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Personal Application

Kevin, one theme really stands out here:

You spend a lot of time trying to do things the right way whether it’s serving at church, helping your mother, working faithfully at HCW, leading Toastmasters, or studying Scripture each morning. This passage reminds us that God sees more than the outward result. He sees the materials you’re building with.

A small act done in faith may be gold.

A kind word to someone difficult may be silver.

Faithfully showing up when nobody notices may be a precious stone.

The world often measures success by visible results. God measures what is built upon the foundation of Christ.

So the question is not:

“How much did I accomplish?”

The question is:

“Did I build with Christ-centered materials that will last forever?”

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Source Table

Source	Contribution
1 Corinthians 3:10-11	Christ is the only foundation
1 Corinthians 3:12-15	Believers’ works will be tested and rewarded
1 Corinthians 3:16-17	The church is God’s temple
1 Corinthians 3:18-20	Worldly wisdom is insufficient before God
1 Corinthians 3:21-23	All spiritual blessings belong to believers through Christ

Morning Encouragement

Build today with gold, not straw.
Every act of faithfulness, every choice to honor Christ, every moment of grace toward others is another eternal brick laid upon the foundation that can never be shaken. 🏗️✝️

“For no one can lay any foundation other than the one already laid, which is Jesus Christ.” (1 Corinthians 3:11)

WELL… LAST NIGHT… I WON AGAIN… I REALLY, DID NOT DESERVE THIS WIN… BUT, A “W” IS A “W”… I will not display alot of what is on my mind… I DO NOT HAVE TIME THIS MORNING… I AM OPENING COORDINATOR IN CYOCB for HCW.

KEVIN!!!

FIRST OF ALL…

A WIN IS A WIN. 🏆

Now, let’s be honest. Looking at the scoreboard in your image:

• Winning With Integrity: 110
• Sweet Treats (Lori Funck): 108

That is a 2-point victory. Not exactly a blowout. Not exactly your best week. But as they say in football:

“They don’t ask how. They ask how many.”

You are now building quite the reputation in the Elizabethtown Rotary Fantasy Football League. 😄

What I find interesting is that your reaction isn’t, “LOOK HOW AWESOME I AM!”

Instead, it’s:

“I really did not deserve this win.”

That tells me you’re evaluating your performance, not just the result.

That reminds me of the passage you read this morning.

In 1 Corinthians 3, Paul talks about building with gold, silver, and precious stones instead of wood, hay, and straw. The principle applies beyond church work. It applies to fantasy football, leadership, work, and life.

The scoreboard says:

✅ Win

Your internal evaluation says:

🤔 Could have been better.

That is a healthy mindset when balanced correctly.

The danger is not becoming complacent because you won.

The other danger is failing to appreciate a victory because it wasn’t perfect.

A mature competitor can say:

“I am grateful for the win, and I still have room to improve.”

That sounds exactly like something you’ve said before about your fantasy football team.

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As for this morning…

Opening Coordinator in CYOCB at HCW.

That means your focus shifts from fantasy football to leadership and execution.

You don’t have time to carry every thought from last night into today.

So here is your simple mission:

1. Open strong.
2. Support your team.
3. Take care of guests.
4. Leave CYOCB better than you found it.

The fantasy score is already recorded.

The victory is already in the books.

Today’s game is a different one.

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Morning Fuel

“Each one should be careful how he builds.” (1 Corinthians 3:10)

Today isn’t about building a fantasy football record.

Today is about building another day of faithfulness.

And Kevin…

110-108 still counts in the standings. 😎

Go have a great day at HCW, Coordinator. You’ve got an opening shift to win now. ☕🏃‍♂️🍫🏆

THANKS BE TO GOD.

HIGH FIVE! (感谢神让我睡了个好觉)

Luke 1:48-55 is the heart of Mary’s song of praise, often called the Magnificat. After Elizabeth confirms God’s work in her life, Mary responds with worship. This passage reveals God’s character, His kingdom values, and His faithfulness to His promises.

7 Key Takeaways from Luke 1:48-55

1. God Notices the Humble (v.48)

Mary praises God because He looked upon her “humble state.”

Significance: God often chooses ordinary people to accomplish extraordinary purposes. Mary was not wealthy, influential, or famous, but she was available and faithful.

Life Application: Never underestimate what God can do through a willing servant.

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2. True Blessedness Comes from God’s Favor (v.48)

Mary declares that future generations will call her blessed.

Significance: Her blessing was not based on status but on God’s grace. God’s favor changed her story.

Life Application: The greatest blessing in life is not earthly success but being part of God’s plan.

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3. God’s Power and Holiness Work Together (v.49)

“The Mighty One has done great things for me; holy is his name.”

Significance: God’s power is never separated from His holiness. He uses His unlimited strength for righteous purposes.

Life Application: We can trust God’s power because it is guided by His perfect character.

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4. God’s Mercy Extends Across Generations (v.50)

Mary celebrates God’s mercy toward those who fear Him.

Significance: God’s covenant love is not temporary. His mercy reaches generation after generation.

Life Application: Your faithfulness today can influence future generations.

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5. God Reverses Human Expectations (vv.51-53)

Mary describes a great reversal:

• The proud are scattered.
• The mighty are brought down.
• The humble are lifted up.
• The hungry are filled.
• The rich are sent away empty.

Significance: God’s kingdom operates differently from the world’s systems. Status, power, and wealth do not impress Him.

Life Application: God values humility, dependence, and faith more than earthly prestige.

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6. God Is Faithful to Israel (v.54)

Mary remembers God’s help toward Israel.

Significance: The birth of Jesus was not a random event. It was the continuation of God’s redemptive plan throughout history.

Life Application: God does not forget His people, even when fulfillment seems delayed.

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7. God Always Keeps His Promises (v.55)

Mary points back to Abraham and God’s covenant.

Significance: The coming Messiah fulfilled promises made centuries earlier. What God promised to Abraham was becoming reality through Jesus.

Life Application: God’s timing may seem slow, but His promises never fail.

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Revelation 12 Significance Table

Theme	Luke 1:48-55	Revelation 12 Connection
Humble Servant	Mary is chosen in her lowliness	God often advances His purposes through seemingly weak vessels
Covenant Fulfillment	Promise to Abraham remembered	God’s redemptive plan unfolds across generations
Spiritual Victory	God’s mercy triumphs over human pride	The woman and her child overcome the dragon’s opposition
Kingdom Reversal	Humble exalted, proud scattered	God’s kingdom overturns worldly power
Messiah’s Arrival	Jesus enters history	The male Child destined to rule the nations
Divine Faithfulness	God remembers His promises	God’s purposes cannot be stopped by spiritual opposition

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What This Passage Reveals About God

Attribute	Evidence
Faithful	Remembers His covenant promises
Merciful	Shows mercy to those who fear Him
Powerful	Performs mighty deeds
Holy	“Holy is His name”
Just	Brings down the proud and exalts the humble
Sovereign	Directs history according to His plan

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Personal Encouragement for You

Kevin, one phrase stands out from this passage:

“He has been mindful of the humble state of his servant.” (Luke 1:48)

Sometimes it may feel like your efforts at work, your service to your mom, your involvement in church, Rotary, and Toastmasters happen quietly behind the scenes. Mary’s song reminds us that God sees faithful obedience that others overlook.

The world notices titles and achievements. God notices faithfulness.

Just as God had a purpose for Mary’s season of waiting and uncertainty, He has a purpose for yours. The same God who remembered Abraham’s promise, who saw Mary’s humility, and who sent Jesus at exactly the right time is still directing your path today.

Source Table

Source	Contribution
Luke 1:48-49	God’s favor toward the humble and His mighty works
Luke 1:50	God’s mercy across generations
Luke 1:51-53	The great reversal of God’s kingdom
Luke 1:54-55	God’s faithfulness to Israel and His covenant with Abraham

Bottom Line: Luke 1:48-55 teaches that God sees the humble, opposes pride, lifts up the faithful, remembers His promises, and accomplishes His purposes according to His perfect timing through Jesus Christ.

Thank you… WE HAVE WORK THIS MORNING…

YOU GOT IT, KEVIN!

Today may be a workday at HCW, but remember Mary’s words:

“The Mighty One has done great things for me.” (Luke 1:49)

Mary wasn’t standing on a mountaintop when she said that. She was standing at the beginning of a journey filled with uncertainty. Yet she chose praise before she saw the outcome.

That’s a great mindset for today:

✅ Work hard.
✅ Serve others well.
✅ Honor Christ through your attitude.
✅ Trust that God is working even when the day feels ordinary.

Sometimes we think God only moves through the big moments. Luke 1 reminds us that He is often working through the quiet moments, the routine shifts, the acts of faithfulness that nobody else notices.

Before you head out, remember:

The proud seek recognition. The humble seek obedience.

And according to Mary’s song, God sees the humble.

Have an AWESOME day at HCW, Kevin. Bring your best effort, encourage someone, and keep your eyes open. God has a way of placing divine appointments in the middle of ordinary workdays.

HIGH FIVE! (want some brownies???)

Kevin, Romans 6:23 is one of the clearest summaries of the entire gospel:

“For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.” (Romans 6:23)

1. The Reality of Sin’s Payment

Paul uses the word “wages.” A wage is something earned. Just as a worker earns a paycheck, sin earns a reward.

• Sin always produces separation from God.
• Spiritual death is the natural result of rebellion against God.
• The verse reminds us that death is not merely a physical event but the consequence of humanity’s fallen condition.

Paul is emphasizing that we cannot blame God for the outcome of sin. It pays exactly what it promises: death.

2. Eternal Life Cannot Be Earned

Notice the contrast:

• Wages = earned
• Gift = freely given

This is one of the most important distinctions in Christianity.

We earn death through sin. We do not earn eternal life through good works, church attendance, giving, or religious activity.

Eternal life is God’s gift through Jesus Christ.

3. Jesus Is the Only Means of Salvation

Paul does not simply say eternal life comes from God.

He specifically says:

“in Christ Jesus our Lord.”

The gift is found in a relationship with Christ.

Jesus took upon Himself the penalty that sin deserved so that believers could receive the life they could never earn.

4. A Choice Between Two Masters

Earlier in Romans 6, Paul teaches that people serve either:

• Sin, leading to death
• God, leading to righteousness and life

Verse 23 serves as the conclusion of that argument.

Every person is moving toward one of two destinations based on whom they follow.

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Why This Matters (Revelation 12 Significance)

Theme	Significance
Satan’s Goal	Sin leads humanity toward death and separation from God.
God’s Victory	God offers eternal life as a free gift through Jesus Christ.
Believer’s Identity	We are no longer slaves to sin but recipients of God’s grace.
Spiritual Warfare	The enemy condemns; Christ offers forgiveness and life.
Kingdom Perspective	God’s salvation cannot be earned, only received by faith.

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Source Table

Passage	Key Truth
Romans 6:23	Sin earns death; God gives eternal life through Christ.
Romans 3:23	All have sinned and fall short of God’s glory.
Romans 5:8	Christ died for us while we were still sinners.
Ephesians 2:8-9	Salvation is by grace through faith, not works.
John 3:16	Whoever believes in Jesus receives eternal life.

Core Takeaways

1. Sin has a guaranteed paycheck: death.
2. Eternal life is not earned; it is received as God’s gift.
3. Jesus Christ is the only source of that gift.
4. Romans 6:23 summarizes the gospel in a single verse.
5. God’s grace is greater than our sin when we place our faith in Christ.

Kevin, one thing that stands out for your journey right now is this: God is not asking you to earn His love through perfect performance. Whether you’re serving your mom, working at HCW, leading Toastmasters, or growing in your faith, you are already approaching God as someone who has received a gift, not someone trying to earn a paycheck. That truth brings freedom, gratitude, and joy into every part of life. 🙏✝️

All this talk about paychecks… it’s crazy… BE HONEST… BE HONEST WITH THE ONE YOU LOVE… I really wish that I had more time today to spend reading. I have to work for a paycheck. Thanks Adam! (Adam + Eve) EARLY TODAY, I AM WORKING AT HCW. THEN, I AM GOING TO MY CHURCH’S FALL GET TOGETHER. WE ARE GOING TO SEE THE BAINBRIDGE HALLOWEEN PARADE… I AM BRINGING HERSHEY CHOCOLATE BROWNIES FOR EVERYONE… BUT FIRST… THAT PAYCHECK.

Kevin… I think you’re seeing the irony perfectly. 😄

Romans 6:23 talks about a paycheck that nobody wants:

“The wages of sin is death…”

Meanwhile, you’re heading off to earn a paycheck that helps keep the lights on, supports your family, pays for golf balls, fuels gym workouts, and buys ingredients for church brownies.

You said it well:

“Thanks Adam!”

Ever since Genesis 3, work has been necessary. Work itself is not the curse. God gave Adam work before the Fall. The frustration, sweat, exhaustion, and “I wish I had more time to read my Bible but I have to go to work” feeling… that’s part of living in a fallen world.

But here’s the encouraging part:

You may have to work for a paycheck today, but you do not have to work for God’s acceptance.

Your employer pays you because you worked.

God loves you because you are His.

That’s a huge difference.

And honestly, Kevin, don’t beat yourself up because your reading time is shorter today. Sometimes serving God looks like sitting quietly with a Bible. Other times it looks like:

• Showing up for work at HCW with a good attitude.
• Bringing brownies to your church family.
• Standing with your congregation at the Bainbridge Halloween Parade.
• Being present with the people God has placed in your life.

Those things matter too.

I think there’s something beautiful about your schedule today:

1. Work for the paycheck.
2. Gather with God’s people.
3. Share brownies with others.

That sounds a lot like faith being lived out, not just studied.

So go earn that paycheck, my friend. Then go enjoy your church’s fall gathering. And if those Hershey Chocolate brownies disappear quickly, you’ll know you brought exactly the right thing. 🍫😄

Today’s reminder: You work from God’s grace, not for God’s grace. That gift was already paid for by Christ. ✝️🏃‍♂️🍂

THANKS BE TO GOD.

HIGH FIVE! (你只有一个身体，要好好照顾自己)

Mark 8:22-26 is a short but powerful account of Jesus healing a blind man at Bethsaida. What makes this miracle unique is that it happens in two stages. The passage is not only about physical sight, but also about spiritual understanding, which is a major theme throughout Mark 8.

Passage Overview

A blind man is brought to Jesus. Jesus:

1. Takes the man outside the village.
2. Puts saliva on his eyes and lays hands on him.
3. Asks if he can see.
4. The man replies, “I see people; they look like trees walking around.”
5. Jesus touches his eyes again.
6. The man’s sight is completely restored.
7. Jesus sends him home and tells him not to enter the village.

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7 Significance Points

1. Spiritual Sight Often Comes Gradually

Most of Jesus’ miracles are instantaneous. This one is progressive.

The blind man first sees partially, then clearly.

This mirrors the disciples’ spiritual condition. Just before this passage, they struggle to understand Jesus’ teachings (Mark 8:17-21). Shortly afterward, Peter correctly identifies Jesus as the Messiah but still misunderstands His mission (Mark 8:27-33).

Lesson: God often leads us from partial understanding to fuller understanding rather than revealing everything at once.

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2. Jesus Meets Us Where We Are

Jesus did not condemn the man’s incomplete sight.

Instead, He continued the healing process until it was complete.

Many believers experience growth in stages. We may not understand God’s plans immediately, but Christ continues His work in us.

Philippians 1:6: “He who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion.”

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3. The Miracle Illustrates Discipleship

Mark intentionally places this miracle between accounts showing the disciples’ confusion and Peter’s confession.

The blind man becomes a living illustration of the disciples:

• Blind
• Partially seeing
• Eventually understanding

Mark is teaching that following Jesus involves a journey from blindness to clarity.

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4. Jesus Leads the Man Away from the Crowd

Jesus takes the blind man outside Bethsaida before healing him.

This demonstrates personal care and removes distractions.

Sometimes spiritual growth happens when God pulls us away from the noise and crowds so we can focus on Him.

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5. Complete Restoration Comes from Jesus Alone

The man could not finish the healing himself.

Only Jesus could bring his sight from partial to complete.

Likewise, spiritual maturity is ultimately God’s work in us.

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6. Bethsaida Represented Spiritual Resistance

Jesus had previously rebuked Bethsaida for unbelief (Matthew 11:21).

After the healing, Jesus told the man not to return to the village.

This may symbolize separation from an environment that had largely rejected Christ.

A lesson for us is to avoid influences that continually draw us away from God’s truth.

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7. Clear Vision Changes Everything

The man moved from:

• Darkness
• Blurred shapes
• Complete sight

The Christian life follows a similar pattern:

• Before Christ: spiritual blindness
• Early growth: partial understanding
• Mature faith: increasing clarity

We may not see perfectly yet, but Christ continues opening our eyes.

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Revelation 12 Significance Table

Element	Mark 8:22-26	Revelation 12 Connection
Blind man	Humanity needing salvation	God’s people depend on divine intervention
Partial sight	Growing faith	Believers mature through spiritual battles
Second touch	Continued grace	God preserves and strengthens His people
Seeing clearly	Spiritual understanding	Victory comes through remaining faithful to Christ
Leaving Bethsaida	Separation from unbelief	God’s people are called to stand apart from worldly opposition
Personal healing	Individual transformation	Christ actively works in each believer’s life

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What This Means for You Today

Kevin, one of the most encouraging truths in this passage is that Jesus was not frustrated by incomplete progress.

The blind man’s first response could have sounded disappointing: “I see people; they look like trees walking around.” Yet Jesus didn’t walk away. He touched him again.

That’s good news for all of us.

Whether you’re growing in your faith, pursuing a new career opportunity, leading Toastmasters, caring for your mom, improving your golf game, or becoming the man God is shaping you to be, God often works progressively rather than instantly.

The first touch shows progress. The second touch brings clarity.

Keep walking with Christ. The One who opened your eyes yesterday is still giving clearer vision today.

Source Table

Source	Contribution
Mark 8:22-26	The two-stage healing of the blind man at Bethsaida
Mark 8:17-21	The disciples’ spiritual misunderstanding preceding the miracle
Mark 8:27-33	Peter’s partial understanding of Jesus immediately afterward
Matthew 11:21	Jesus’ rebuke of Bethsaida’s unbelief
Philippians 1:6	God completes the work He begins in believers

Core Takeaway: Mark 8:22-26 teaches that Jesus often brings spiritual understanding in stages. What begins as blurred vision becomes clear sight as we continue to trust and follow Him.

YEAH… I went to Field of Screams (AMERICA’S #1 HAUNTED ATTRACTION) last night… I WAS INSTRUCTED TO BRING MY NITROGLYCERIN TABLETS TO PREVENT MYSELF FROM BEING SCARED… I don’t need nitroglycerin… All the Actors are people in masks or they have makeup. (I KNOW) I am going to make that chicken teriyaki and egg rolls for work…

😂 Kevin, I think somebody was having a little fun with you!

“Make sure you bring your nitroglycerin tablets so you don’t get scared at Field of Screams” sounds like classic amusement-park humor. You’re right though, once you remind yourself that it’s actors, masks, makeup, and special effects, the mystery disappears a bit. The real challenge is acting scared enough to make the actors feel like they’re doing their job!

And that chicken teriyaki with egg rolls sounds a lot better than surviving haunted houses. That’s some good work-lunch fuel right there.

For your phrase:

“You only have one body to live in. Make sure you take care of it.”

Mandarin Chinese (Simplified):

你只有一个身体可以生活一辈子，一定要好好照顾它。
(Nǐ zhǐ yǒu yí gè shēntǐ kěyǐ shēnghuó yí bèizi, yídìng yào hǎohǎo zhàogù tā.)

A more natural motivational version would be:

你只有一个身体，要好好照顾自己。
(Nǐ zhǐ yǒu yí gè shēntǐ, yào hǎohǎo zhàogù zìjǐ.)

Literal meaning: “You only have one body, so take good care of yourself.”

I like that version because it’s short, memorable, and sounds like something you’d put on a fitness poster or say before heading to the gym.

Kevin’s Wellness Motto in Mandarin:

你只有一个身体，要好好照顾自己。
(Nǐ zhǐ yǒu yí gè shēntǐ, yào hǎohǎo zhàogù zìjǐ.)

“You only have one body. Take good care of yourself.”

Considering it’s rest day, golf season, fantasy football season, and you’ve got chicken teriyaki packed for work, I’d say you’re already putting that motto into practice. 💪🏌️‍♂️🍗

THANKS BE TO GOD.

HIGH FIVE! (start small… BE CONSISTENT)

John 1:6-28 is one of the clearest passages in Scripture about the difference between the messenger and the Messiah. John the Baptist’s entire mission was to direct attention away from himself and toward Jesus Christ.

1. Core Significance

1. God Sends Witnesses (vv. 6-8)

“There was a man sent from God, whose name was John.”

John the Baptist was not the Light. He was a witness to the Light.

This teaches us:

• God uses ordinary people to point others to Christ.
• A witness does not draw attention to himself.
• The purpose of ministry is not personal recognition but helping others see Jesus.

Application:

As believers, we are called to be lights in the world, but we are never the Light. Like John, our role is to direct people toward Christ rather than ourselves.

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2. Many Reject the Light (vv. 9-11)

Jesus came into the world He created.

The tragedy is startling:

• He made the world.
• The world did not recognize Him.
• His own people largely rejected Him.

John shows that unbelief is not caused by lack of evidence.

The Creator stood among His creation, yet many still turned away.

Application:

People today can be surrounded by truth and still reject Christ. Salvation involves responding to God’s revelation with faith.

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3. Believers Become Children of God (vv. 12-13)

These verses contain one of the greatest promises in the New Testament:

“But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God…”

Notice:

• Salvation comes by receiving Christ.
• It comes through faith.
• Spiritual birth comes from God, not human effort.

The Pharisees depended on their ancestry. John says God’s family is formed through spiritual rebirth.

Application:

No one becomes God’s child through heritage, church attendance, good works, or family tradition. We become God’s children through faith in Jesus.

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4. John Models True Humility (vv. 19-23)

Religious leaders questioned John:

“Are you the Christ?”

John could have enjoyed the attention, but instead he repeatedly denied greatness:

• “I am not the Christ.”
• “I am not Elijah” (in the literal sense they expected).
• “I am not the Prophet.”

Then he identified himself simply as:

“The voice of one crying in the wilderness.”

John viewed himself as a voice, not the message.

Application:

God often works through people who are willing to decrease so Christ can increase (John 3:30).

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5. Religious Activity Cannot Replace Christ (vv. 24-28)

The Pharisees wanted to know why John was baptizing.

John’s answer was essentially:

“My baptism points to Someone greater.”

The religious leaders focused on rituals.

John focused on Jesus.

This demonstrates a recurring biblical theme:

• Religion points.
• Jesus saves.
• Rituals prepare.
• Christ transforms.

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Revelation 12 Significance Table

Passage Element	Revelation 12 Connection	Significance
John the Baptist	Faithful witness	God’s servants testify despite opposition
The Light	Christ, the victorious King	Jesus is the source of truth and life
Rejection by the world	Dragon’s rebellion against God	Darkness continually opposes God’s truth
Receiving Christ	Those whose names belong to God	Believers become part of God’s redeemed family
Voice in the wilderness	Proclaiming God’s message before His coming	God prepares hearts before major acts of redemption
Religious leaders questioning John	Spiritual opposition to God’s work	Human systems often resist divine truth
Humility of John	Servants who overcome through faithfulness	God honors those who point to Christ instead of themselves

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What This Reveals About God

1. God sends messengers before major works.
2. God desires people to know His Son.
3. God offers adoption into His family through faith.
4. God values humility over recognition.
5. God’s truth shines even when the world rejects it.

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Personal Application for Kevin

I think one reason this passage connects with your life right now is that you spend a lot of time serving others:

• helping your mother,
• serving at church,
• leading in Toastmasters,
• serving through Rotary,
• working at HCW.

John the Baptist reminds us that significance is not found in being the center of attention. It is found in faithfully pointing people toward something greater than ourselves.

Just as John said, “I am the voice,” we can say:

“I may not be the answer for everyone, but I can faithfully point people to the One who is.”

Source Table

Source	Contribution
John 1:6-8	John the Baptist sent as a witness to the Light
John 1:9-11	The world largely rejected Christ
John 1:12-13	Believers become children of God through faith
John 1:19-23	John’s humility and identity as a voice
John 1:24-28	John’s baptism points beyond himself to Jesus

Morning Takeaway

John 1:6-28 teaches that the greatest servants of God are not those who draw attention to themselves, but those who faithfully point others to Jesus. The Light changes lives; the witness simply helps others see it. 🙏✨

YEAH… great reminder… TODAY WILL BE AN AWESOME DAY… I am going golfing with my church at SUNSET golf course… I have been practicing my swing all summer long… Almost every week, I went to the driving range and practiced my golf swing… I AM FAR FROM BEING A PRO, HOWEVER, I HOPE, I DEMONSTRATE IMPROVEMENT TODAY… BUT FIRST… I AM GOING TO THE GYM.

KEVIN… NOW THAT IS THE REWARD OF CONSISTENT EFFORT! 🏌️‍♂️💪

You are approaching today exactly the right way.

You didn’t spend all summer expecting to become a PGA professional. You spent all summer building a better swing, one bucket of balls at a time. Every trip to the driving range was an investment. Today is not about perfection. It is about seeing the fruit of faithful practice.

That actually reminds me of John the Baptist.

John’s goal wasn’t to make people admire John. His goal was to faithfully do what God called him to do. The results belonged to God.

Today your job isn’t to shoot a perfect round.

Your job is simply to:

✅ Make the next good swing.
✅ Have fun with your church friends.
✅ Enjoy God’s creation.
✅ Recognize how far you’ve come since spring.

If a shot goes into the trees…

Laugh.

If you stripe one down the fairway…

Enjoy it.

If you hit a personal best…

Celebrate it.

If you don’t…

Remember that improvement is measured over months, not holes.

And before golf comes the gym…

CHEST DAY? SHOULDERS? CARDIO? Whatever it is, attack it with the same mindset that has carried you all year:

Consistency beats intensity.

One workout doesn’t make a champion.

One bucket of balls doesn’t make a golfer.

One day of Bible reading doesn’t make a disciple.

But faithfully showing up again and again changes everything.

Kevin’s Battle Cry for Today

🏋️ First the gym.

🏌️ Then the golf course.

🙏 Then gratitude for whatever the day brings.

And when you stand on that first tee at Sunset Golf Course, remember:

You are not competing against anyone else’s scorecard. You are competing against the golfer you were three months ago.

My guess?

That golfer wouldn’t want to play against today’s Kevin. 😎

NOW GO GET THAT WORKOUT IN… AND LET’S SEE WHAT ALL THAT SUMMER PRACTICE CAN DO ON THE COURSE TODAY! ⛳🔥🏌️‍♂️

THANKS BE TO GOD.

继续爬那些楼梯

HIGH FIVE! (keep climbing those stairs)

This passage is much more significant than it first appears. Deuteronomy 2:1-9 records Israel’s journey around Edom, but spiritually it teaches lessons about God’s timing, God’s boundaries, and God’s faithfulness to His promises.

7 Key Takeaways

1. God Sometimes Leads Us Through Long Detours

Israel wandered for many years around Mount Seir before moving forward (vv. 1-3).

The detour was not because God was lost. It was because God was preparing His people. Sometimes what feels like wasted time is actually God’s training ground.

Life Application: When your goals seem delayed, God may be developing character, obedience, and trust before opening the next door.

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2. There Comes a Time to Move Forward

God said:

“Ye have compassed this mountain long enough: turn you northward.” (v. 3)

Israel had circled the same area for years. Then God declared it was time to advance.

Life Application: Sometimes God tells us to wait. Other times He says, “You’ve stayed here long enough. Move forward.”

Kevin, this reminds me of your own journey. There are seasons of preparation, but eventually God calls us to step into new opportunities.

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3. God Honors Boundaries

Israel was commanded not to fight the descendants of Esau (Edom).

God said:

“I will not give you of their land.” (v. 5)

Not every piece of land belonged to Israel. Some belonged to others by God’s design.

Life Application: Not every opportunity is ours to pursue. God often says “no” because He has assigned something different for us.

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4. God Keeps His Promises Across Generations

The land of Seir had been given to Esau’s descendants.

Even though Esau lived centuries earlier, God still honored what He had promised.

Life Application: God remembers His commitments. What He promises, He fulfills, even when generations pass.

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5. God’s Blessings Do Not Cancel Personal Responsibility

Israel was instructed to pay for food and water (vv. 6-7).

God had blessed them greatly, but they were still expected to act honorably.

Life Application: God’s provision does not excuse integrity. Believers should deal fairly with others.

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6. God Had Been Providing All Along

Verse 7 says:

“The LORD thy God hath blessed thee in all the works of thy hand… these forty years the LORD thy God hath been with thee; thou hast lacked nothing.”

What an incredible statement.

Israel complained many times, yet God says they lacked nothing.

Life Application: Looking backward often reveals blessings we overlooked while walking through difficult seasons.

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7. God Blesses Others Besides His Chosen People

An important truth appears here.

God blessed Esau’s descendants and gave them their own inheritance.

This demonstrates God’s sovereignty over all nations, not just Israel.

Life Application: God is working in places and people beyond what we can immediately see.

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Revelation 12 Significance Table

Theme	Deuteronomy 2:1-9	Revelation 12 Connection
Wilderness Journey	Israel travels through wilderness	God’s people are protected in the wilderness (Rev. 12:6)
Divine Protection	God guides Israel safely	God preserves His people from the dragon
God’s Timing	“You have circled long enough”	God’s plans unfold according to His timetable
Boundaries Established	Israel must avoid Edom	God establishes authority and limitations
Provision	Israel lacked nothing	God continually sustains His faithful followers
Promised Inheritance	Edom receives its allotted territory	Believers receive their inheritance in Christ

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What This Means for You Today

Kevin, one phrase stands out:

“Ye have compassed this mountain long enough.”

Many people read this passage and immediately think about areas where they have been circling for years.

The question becomes:

• Is God teaching patience?
• Or is God saying it is time to move forward?

Only the Lord can answer that specifically, but the principle is powerful. God never wastes a season. Every lap around the mountain had purpose. When His work was complete, He gave a new direction.

Considering everything you’ve shared recently, from helping your mother, serving at church, working faithfully at HCW, preparing for leadership opportunities, and pursuing future career goals, this passage is a reminder that God knows exactly when preparation becomes promotion.

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MS Copilot Native Source Table

Scripture Source	Main Teaching
Deuteronomy 2:1-3	God directs both waiting seasons and advancement seasons
Deuteronomy 2:4-5	Respect God’s boundaries and assignments
Deuteronomy 2:6-7	Walk in integrity while trusting God’s provision
Deuteronomy 2:8-9	God’s plans include blessings for others as well
Revelation 12:6	God protects and sustains His people in difficult seasons
Revelation 12:17	God’s faithful people continue walking in obedience despite opposition

Morning Encouragement

If the escalator is broken… WE ARE TAKING THE STAIRS!

Deuteronomy 2 teaches that the stairs may be longer than expected, but God is still leading every step. When He says, “You’ve gone around this mountain long enough,” the next direction will come at exactly the right time. Keep walking faithfully. God has never lost sight of the destination.

GOOD FUEL FOR A WORKOUT… SCRIPTURE THEN, STRAWBERRIES & OATMEAL… A simple, nutritious combination of protein and fruit. I believe taking care of ourselves starts with the little things, like eating well and giving our bodies the nourishment they need. Life is more enjoyable when we feel healthy and full of energy, so remember to take good care of yourself. NOW, I PLAN ON WORKING OUT HARD.

KEVIN… NOW THAT IS WORKOUT FUEL! 🍓🥣💪

Strawberries and oatmeal are a simple combination, but they provide exactly what your body needs before a hard workout:

• Oatmeal provides slow-burning carbohydrates for steady energy.
• Strawberries provide natural sugars for quick energy along with vitamins and antioxidants.
• The fiber helps keep you satisfied without feeling weighed down.
• If you add a little milk, Greek yogurt, or a scoop of protein powder, you create an even more complete pre-workout meal.

I love what you said:

“Taking care of ourselves starts with the little things.”

That principle applies to almost every area of life.

• One healthy breakfast.
• One workout.
• One good night’s sleep.
• One chapter of Scripture.
• One act of kindness.

Small choices repeated consistently produce extraordinary results over time.

And remember what we just studied in Deuteronomy:

“The LORD thy God hath been with thee… thou hast lacked nothing.” (Deuteronomy 2:7)

God gave Israel what they needed for the journey. In a much smaller way, you’re doing the same thing for yourself this morning by giving your body what it needs for the workout ahead.

So go hit that gym with confidence:

✅ Fuel in the tank
✅ Positive attitude
✅ Strong purpose
✅ Hard work ahead

AND REMEMBER…

If the escalator is broken… WE ARE TAKING THE STAIRS!

Now get after it, leg day warrior. Every rep is a vote for the man you’re becoming. 🏋️‍♂️🔥🇺🇸

LET’S GO WORKOUT.

#WinningWithIntegrity

HIGH FIVE! (can’t say that I deserved that win)

Proverbs 23:19-28 is a fatherly appeal to choose wisdom over destructive desires. The passage contrasts the path of self-control and godly obedience with the path of drunkenness, gluttony, sexual immorality, and foolish living. At its heart is one of the most personal requests found in Proverbs:

“My son, give me thine heart…” (v.26)

God is not merely seeking outward obedience. He wants the heart first.

7 Key Takeaways

1. Wisdom Requires Deliberate Direction (v.19)

“Guide thine heart in the way.”

The heart naturally drifts toward comfort, pleasure, and temptation. Wisdom is not passive. It requires intentionally steering your thoughts, desires, and decisions toward God’s path.

Application: Every morning we choose what will guide us: God’s Word or the world’s distractions.

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2. Excessive Living Leads to Poverty (vv.20-21)

The warning against drunkards and gluttons is about more than food and drink.

These behaviors symbolize lives controlled by appetite rather than discipline. When desires become masters, they consume resources, opportunities, and spiritual vitality.

Application: God calls us to self-control in every area: money, time, food, entertainment, emotions, and relationships.

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3. Honor God Through Honoring Parents (vv.22-25)

The writer urges children to listen to their father and not despise their mother.

This reflects a broader biblical principle: wisdom respects those whom God has placed in authority and who have invested in our lives.

Kevin, considering your love and care for your mother, this section reflects a beautiful biblical value. Bringing her to places where she can thrive and helping care for her needs demonstrates this principle in action.

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4. Truth Is Worth Any Price (v.23)

“Buy the truth, and sell it not.”

Truth, wisdom, instruction, and understanding are priceless possessions.

The world often treats truth as negotiable. God treats truth as treasure.

Application: Invest time, effort, and sacrifice to gain God’s wisdom, then never compromise it for convenience or popularity.

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5. Godly Living Brings Joy to Others (vv.24-25)

Parents rejoice when their children walk in wisdom.

This reveals that our choices affect more than ourselves. Faithfulness encourages family, church members, friends, and future generations.

Application: Every act of obedience creates ripple effects beyond what we see.

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6. God Wants the Heart Before the Behavior (v.26)

“My son, give me thine heart.”

This may be the central verse of the passage.

God knows that transformed behavior begins with a transformed heart. Rules alone cannot produce righteousness. Love and devotion to God can.

Application: Christianity is not merely “doing the right things.” It is surrendering the heart to Christ.

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7. Sin Often Appears Attractive Before It Becomes Destructive (vv.27-28)

The “strange woman” represents sexual temptation and any seductive form of sin.

Solomon describes temptation as a hidden trap waiting for unsuspecting victims. Sin rarely advertises its consequences. It presents pleasure first and pain later.

Application: Evaluate choices by their destination, not merely by their immediate appeal.

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Revelation 12 Significance Table

Theme in Proverbs 23:19-28	Revelation 12 Connection	Significance
Guard your heart	The dragon seeks to deceive and destroy	Spiritual battles begin in the heart and mind.
Follow wisdom	The faithful overcome through obedience	Victory comes through remaining aligned with God.
Reject destructive appetites	Satan uses worldly desires to distract believers	Discipline strengthens spiritual endurance.
Buy the truth	Satan is called the deceiver	Truth is one of the believer’s primary defenses.
Honor godly instruction	The remnant keep God’s commandments	Faithfulness requires listening to God’s voice.
Give God your heart	God’s people belong to Him completely	God seeks wholehearted devotion, not partial commitment.
Resist temptation	The enemy lays spiritual traps	Awareness and wisdom help believers avoid destruction.

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What This Passage Means for You

one phrase stands out:

“Give me thine heart.”

It’s easy to focus on avoiding the wrong things listed in this chapter, but Solomon’s real concern is ownership of the heart. When the heart belongs to God, wisdom follows. Self-control follows. Integrity follows.

As you’ve been learning recently through Matthew, Luke, Acts, Romans, Ephesians, and the Psalms, God repeatedly emphasizes inward transformation before outward action.

Who has your heart today?

When God has the heart, the rest of life begins to align with His wisdom.

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Source Table

Source	Key Insight
Proverbs 23:19	Wisdom requires intentionally directing the heart toward God’s way.
Proverbs 23:20-21	Uncontrolled appetites lead to spiritual and material decline.
Proverbs 23:22-25	Honoring godly instruction brings joy and blessing.
Proverbs 23:23	Truth and wisdom are treasures never to be surrendered.
Proverbs 23:26	God desires the heart above mere outward compliance.
Proverbs 23:27-28	Temptation is often a hidden trap that leads people away from faithfulness.

My Desire

Lord, I give You my heart today. Help me value Your truth above every temporary pleasure and guide my steps in wisdom. Give me the discipline to resist temptation, the humility to receive instruction, and the faithfulness to honor You in every area of my life. Amen.

Last night, I won again… 6-0 in Fantasy Football… I do not expect to win every game; however, I expect to play at my best every game… I scored 87 points… THIS IS NOT PLAYING MY BEST… I am getting lucky winning all of these games. My opponents are having some bad games, despite my lackadaisical effort. I wish, I could transform my Fantasy Football success into real life… MAYBE I SHOULD START NOT LIMITING MY EFFORTS… On second thought, I am going to keep striving for excellence.

Kevin…

First of all, 6-0 is 6-0. Don’t apologize for winning.

But I think what you’re really wrestling with isn’t your record. It’s the difference between results and performance.

Anyone can get excited about being undefeated. What catches my attention is that you’re saying:

“87 points is not my best.”

That tells me your standard isn’t based on the scoreboard.

That’s actually a sign of maturity.

A lot of people only evaluate themselves by outcomes:

• Won? Great job.
• Lost? Terrible job.

But real growth comes from asking:

• Did I prepare?
• Did I make good decisions?
• Did I give my best effort?
• Did I control what I could control?

Those questions matter more than the final score.

In many ways, Fantasy Football is teaching you a life lesson.

Sometimes:

• You work hard and lose.
• You work hard and win.
• You work poorly and win.
• You work poorly and lose.

The danger is when success convinces us that preparation is unnecessary.

An undefeated record can hide weaknesses.

That’s why I really liked where your thought process went:

“Maybe I should stop limiting my efforts.”

And then:

“On second thought, I am going to keep striving for excellence.”

THAT is the winning mindset.

Because excellence is not:

• Winning every game.
• Having the highest score.
• Looking successful.

Excellence is giving your best regardless of the outcome.

You know what this reminds me of?

Proverbs 23:23

“Buy the truth, and sell it not.”

The truth is:

• You’re undefeated.
• You’re grateful for the wins.
• You’re capable of better preparation and performance.

All three statements can be true at the same time.

And here’s the beautiful part…

Fantasy Football is ultimately a game.

But you’re already transferring that excellence into real life:

• Caring for your mom.
• Maintaining nearly nine years of perfect attendance at HCW.
• Serving in church.
• Leading in Toastmasters.
• Serving Rotary.
• Pursuing better career opportunities.
• Getting up when it’s still dark to run, study Scripture, or hit the gym.

Those are the places where striving for excellence has eternal and lasting value.

So celebrate the 6-0 record.

Then wake up tomorrow and act like you’re 0-0.

That’s how champions stay champions.

And Kevin, one more thing…

You aren’t getting lucky in life.

You have been sowing discipline for a long time. Sometimes the harvest arrives in unexpected ways. The goal isn’t to be undefeated. The goal is to become the kind of man who brings his best effort to every opportunity God gives him.

Keep striving for excellence.

As you like to say:

IF THE ESCALATOR IS BROKEN… WE ARE TAKING THE STAIRS. 🚶‍♂️⬆️

And today, my friend, you’re still climbing.

ANG…

你是我命中注定的那个人