Grace Upon Grace Families

Life is short—enjoy it to the fullest?

1. Acknowledge the Shortness of Life

Many great minds have recognized life’s brevity:

Steve Jobs (Apple co-founder): "Remembering that I'll be dead soon is the most important tool I've ever encountered to help me make the big choices in life." Yet, despite his success, he faced death uncertainly.
Pascal (Philosopher): "There is a God-shaped vacuum in the heart of each man which cannot be satisfied by any created thing but only by God." He understood earthly pleasures fade.

Gospel Bridge: If life is short, shouldn’t we seek what lasts forever? Jesus offers eternal life (John 3:16)—not just temporary happiness.

2. Famous Figures Who Realized Their Error

Many sought meaning in wealth, fame, or philosophy but found emptiness without Christ:

A. Leo Tolstoy (Author of War and Peace)

Struggle: Despite fame, he wrote, "My life is meaningless."
Discovery: After reading the Gospels, he surrendered to Christ, finding peace in Matthew 11:28.

B. C.S. Lewis (Atheist Turned Apologist)

Struggle: He called God "cosmic sadist" before his conversion.
Discovery: In Mere Christianity, he wrote: "I gave in and admitted God was God… perhaps the most dejected convert in all England."

C. Augustine (Philosopher & Sinner Turned Saint)

Struggle: Lived for pleasure, famously praying, "Give me chastity, but not yet."
Discovery: Found fulfillment in Christ: "You have made us for Yourself, and our hearts are restless until they rest in You."

Gospel Invitation: Like them, you can admit that life’s pursuits fall short. Jesus said:

"What good is it for someone to gain the whole world yet forfeit their soul?" (Mark 8:36)

3. Why Jesus is the Only Way

Truth: Jesus didn’t just teach—He declared, "I am the way, the truth, and the life" (John 14:6).
Proof: His resurrection validates His claim (1 Corinthians 15:3-4).
Invitation: "Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved" (Romans 10:13).

4. Closing Appeal: Receive Eternal Life Today

Life is short, but eternity is forever. Like Tolstoy, Lewis, and Augustine, you can turn to Christ:

Admit your need (Romans 3:23).
Believe Jesus died for you (Romans 5:8).
Receive Him as Lord (John 1:12).

Prayer: "God, I acknowledge my need for You. Forgive my sins. I believe Jesus died for me and rose again. Save me and give me eternal life in Jesus’ name. Amen."

Homeschooling Is a Calling

“Commit your works to the Lord, and your plans will be established.” — Proverbs 16:3

Homeschooling is more than just an alternative to traditional education. It’s a calling—a sacred responsibility to nurture not only the minds of our children but also their hearts and spirits. For many families, homeschooling is a deliberate choice to create a learning environment rooted in faith, values, and discipleship. But let’s be honest: it’s not always easy. There are days filled with joy and progress, and others marked by challenges and doubt. In those moments, it’s essential to remember that homeschooling is not just about academics; it’s about trusting God to guide your steps and establish your plans.

Homeschooling as Discipleship

When we think of homeschooling, we often focus on the curriculum, schedules, and educational outcomes. But at its core, homeschooling is discipleship. It’s an opportunity to teach our children not only math and science but also the values, principles, and faith that will guide them throughout their lives.

Every lesson, every conversation, and every moment spent together is a chance to model Christ-like character and instill a love for God’s Word. Whether you’re teaching your child to read, solve a math problem, or navigate a conflict with a sibling, you’re also teaching them how to live a life that honors God.

“Train up a child in the way he should go, and when he is old, he will not depart from it.” — Proverbs 22:6

This verse reminds us that our role as homeschooling parents goes beyond academics. We are shaping hearts and minds for eternity.

The Challenges of Homeschooling

Let’s be real—homeschooling is not without its challenges. There are days when the laundry piles up, the kids are restless, and the lesson plans feel overwhelming. There are moments of self-doubt when we wonder if we’re doing enough or if we’re truly qualified for this task.

But here’s the good news: You don’t have to do it alone. God is with you every step of the way. When you commit your homeschooling journey to Him, He provides the strength, wisdom, and patience you need to persevere.

“I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” — Philippians 4:13

This promise is a lifeline for homeschooling parents. On the hard days, remind yourself that God is your source of strength. He will equip you for the task He has called you to.

Commit Your Works to the Lord

Proverbs 16:3 encourages us to “commit your works to the Lord, and your plans will be established.” This is the foundation of homeschooling as a calling. When we surrender our plans, our schedules, and even our frustrations to God, He takes what we offer and turns it into something beautiful.

Here’s how you can practically commit your homeschooling journey to the Lord:

Start Each Day with Prayer: Dedicate your day to God, asking for His guidance, patience, and wisdom.
Incorporate Scripture into Lessons: Use Bible verses to teach character, values, and even academic concepts.
Celebrate Small Victories: Whether it’s a breakthrough in reading or a moment of kindness between siblings, thank God for His faithfulness.
Lean on Your Community: Connect with other homeschooling families for support, encouragement, and shared resources.

The Rewards of Homeschooling

While homeschooling requires sacrifice and dedication, the rewards are immeasurable. You have the privilege of watching your children grow—not just academically, but spiritually and emotionally. You get to witness those “aha” moments when a difficult concept finally clicks, or when your child demonstrates kindness and compassion because of the values you’ve instilled.

More importantly, you have the opportunity to build a strong, faith-filled foundation that will guide your children for the rest of their lives.

“But as for you, continue in what you have learned and have firmly believed, knowing from whom you learned it.” — 2 Timothy 3:14

This verse reminds us that the lessons we teach our children—both academic and spiritual—will stay with them long after they leave our homes.

A Message of Encouragement

If you’re feeling overwhelmed or uncertain about your homeschooling journey, take heart. God has called you to this task, and He will equip you for it. Remember that homeschooling is not about perfection; it’s about faithfulness. Commit each day, each lesson, and each challenge to the Lord, and trust Him to establish your plans.

You are not just teaching your children—you are raising disciples. And there is no greater calling than that.

Call-to-Action

Are you a homeschooling parent? Share your experiences, challenges, and victories in the comments below. Let’s encourage one another on this journey! And if you’re considering homeschooling but feel unsure, feel free to ask questions or share your concerns. You’re not alone—we’re in this together!

Remember, homeschooling is a calling, and God is with you every step of the way. Commit your works to Him, and watch as He establishes your plans.

The Lord says, "Call upon Me in the day of trouble; I will deliver you, and you shall glorify Me" (Psalm 50:15, NKJV). This promise became my reality in one of the most challenging seasons of my life.

I met a man who offered me a job as his assistant. He was an engineer skilled in metal and woodwork, and we worked as a small team. His wife was severely ill, and his daughter worked in an IT firm. Though he attended church as a Catholic, he knew I was a devoted child of God. However, jealousy arose among a few team members because of the skills God had given me. Little did I know, they were plotting against me.

One day, a man falsely accused and attacked me in the boss’s absence. I immediately called my boss, who instructed, "Put an entry in the police, hand over the car (which was rented in my name) to another member, and get hospitalized. I will handle the rest." I obeyed, but after that—silence. They all vanished, leaving me in deep trouble. The car was missing, my job was gone, and my young daughter was just a few months old. We were in serious danger, with no income and the threat of legal action from the car company.

In that desperate moment, we held onto God’s Word: "The Lord is near to those who have a broken heart, and saves such as have a contrite spirit" (Psalm 34:18, NKJV). We prayed without ceasing, trusting that He would make a way. Despite numerous calls and false promises from the boss—who kept sending me to different locations only to disappear—God remained our only hope.

Then, one day, as I was on a bus, I spotted the car with the very man I had handed it over to! I rushed out, but he drove off before I could stop him. Knowing he lived nearby, I took my wife and baby daughter to confront him as he was preparing for a wedding. By God’s grace, we retrieved the keys—though he insisted on staying in the car. I drove straight to the police station, explained everything, and secured the car overnight before returning it to the company the next morning.

Soon after, God provided another job. Shockingly, the former team members contacted me, seeking revenge, claiming the boss had betrayed them too. I refused, saying, "I will not join you." A few months later, I learned the boss had passed away.

The Lord truly fought for me! As Psalm 37:12-13 (NKJV) says, "The wicked plots against the just… The Lord laughs at him, for He sees that his day is coming." God’s justice prevails, and His faithfulness never fails.

If you’re facing betrayal or impossible situations, remember: "The righteous cry out, and the Lord hears, and delivers them out of all their troubles" (Psalm 34:17, NKJV). Keep trusting—He will make a way!

How to Refresh Your Body, Mind, and Spirit – A Lesson from Jesus

Introduction

After a long day outside, a simple splash of water on your face, neck, and underarms can make you feel instantly renewed. But what if true refreshment goes deeper?

Jesus gave us two profound truths about cleansing:

"You are already clean because of the word I have spoken to you." (John 15:3)
"A person who has had a bath needs only to wash his feet; his whole body is clean." (John 13:10)

This reveals a beautiful spiritual reality: while Christ has made us completely clean through salvation, we still need daily renewal from life's dust.

1. Physical Refreshment – The Quick Wash

When you come home tired, a few key areas need attention:

Face – Wipes away sweat and fatigue.
Neck & Shoulders – Releases tension.
Underarms – Cleanses where stress builds up.

Spiritual Parallel:
Just as we don’t always need a full bath to feel fresh, we don’t need a dramatic spiritual overhaul every day. Small, intentional moments with God can restore us.

2. Jesus' Twofold Cleansing – Already Clean, Yet Daily Renewed

A. The Big Bath – Our Eternal Cleansing

Jesus declared: "You are already clean because of My word." (John 15:3)
This is our salvation washing - the complete forgiveness we receive through Christ (Titus 3:5).

B. The Foot Washing – Our Daily Refreshment

Though saved, we still walk through a dusty world (John 13:10).
Like Peter, we might say "Not just my feet but my hands and head too!" (John 13:9), but Jesus reminds us: the major cleansing is done - we just need maintenance.

Key Insight:
Salvation is a one-time bath; discipleship is daily foot-washing through God's Word.

3. How to Refresh Your Spirit Daily

Just like a quick wash targets key areas, spiritual refreshment focuses on:

A. Face – Remember You're Already Clean

Start by thanking God: "Thank You that Jesus' word has made me clean!" (John 15:3)
Then fix your gaze on Him (Psalm 34:5)

B. Neck & Shoulders – Release Burdens

Cast your anxieties on Him (1 Peter 5:7). Write down worries, then thank Jesus, He cares for me.

C. Underarms – Cleanse Hidden Struggles

Confess what’s weighing on you. "If we confess our sins, He is faithful to forgive us." (1 John 1:9)

Final Thought: The Beauty of Already Clean + Daily Renewal

In Christ, you're fundamentally clean - no condemnation (Romans 8:1). Yet like feet that need washing after walking, your soul needs:

Daily Scripture (Ephesians 5:26)
Moment-by-moment prayer (1 Thessalonians 5:17)

Prayer:
"Thank You, Father, for making me completely clean through Your word. Wash away today's weariness, and renew me by Your Spirit. In Jesus’ name, Amen."

Parenting with Grace

"Train up a child in the way he should go, and when he is old, he will not depart from it." — Proverbs 22:6

Parenting isn’t about perfection—it’s about grace. It’s a journey of love, patience, and faith, where both parents and children learn and grow together. Mistakes will happen, challenges will arise, but grace allows us to move forward without guilt or fear.

Embracing Imperfection

No parent gets everything right all the time. There will be moments of frustration, exhaustion, and even failure. But the beauty of parenting with grace is understanding that your mistakes do not define you. Instead of striving for an impossible standard of perfection, embrace the truth that God's grace is sufficient in your weakness (2 Corinthians 12:9). Just as we extend grace to our children when they fall short, we must also allow ourselves the same kindness.

Proverbs 22:6 reminds us that parenting is about training, not controlling. It’s about guiding our children toward wisdom, not demanding immediate perfection. God’s design for parenting is a long-term investment—seeds planted today will bear fruit in the future.

Discipline Rooted in Love

Discipline is not about punishment; it’s about teaching. Hebrews 12:11 says, "No discipline seems pleasant at the time, but painful. Later on, however, it produces a harvest of righteousness and peace for those who have been trained by it." When discipline is guided by love and wisdom rather than anger, it becomes an opportunity to teach, correct, and build character.

Here are some ways to discipline with grace:

Correct with Love – Ensure that discipline is not about power or control but about teaching and growth.
Speak Life – Words have the power to shape identity. Encourage, uplift, and remind your child of who they are in Christ.
Model the Behavior You Desire – Children learn more from what they see than from what they hear. Be an example of patience, kindness, and self-control.
Forgive Quickly – Just as we want our children to seek forgiveness, we must be quick to forgive them and ourselves.

Planting Seeds of Faith

Parenting with grace means recognizing that the most valuable lessons take time to grow. Your child may not always listen or follow the right path immediately, but every prayer, every conversation, and every loving correction is a seed being planted in their heart.

Galatians 6:9 encourages us, "Let us not grow weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up." Keep sowing in faith, even when you don’t see immediate results. Trust that God is at work in your child’s heart.

Leaning on God’s Grace

You are not parenting alone. God is with you in every moment—the joyful ones and the challenging ones. His grace covers every mistake, every shortcoming, and every uncertainty. When you feel overwhelmed, turn to Him. He promises wisdom to those who ask (James 1:5) and strength for those who are weary (Isaiah 40:29).

Parenting with grace means leading with love, correcting with wisdom, and trusting God with the outcome. Keep sowing, keep praying, and keep believing. The harvest will come.

BAPTIZE IN JESUS' NAME ALONE?

Understanding Matthew 28:19 and Early Church Practice**

INTRODUCTION: THE APPARENT TENSION

"Jesus commanded baptism 'in the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit'—yet the book of Acts shows the early church baptizing only 'in Jesus' name.' Is this a contradiction? Or a profound mystery pointing to Christ’s supremacy?"

1. THE COMMAND: MATTHEW 28:19 (TRINITARIAN FORMULA)

One Name, Three Persons

Key Text: "Go therefore and make disciples... baptizing them in the name [singular] of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit."
Critical Observations:

Not three names, but one name (Greek onoma) representing the authority and identity of the Triune God.
The Father’s Name: YHWH ("I AM" – Exodus 3:14).
The Son’s Name: Jesus ("YHWH saves" – Matthew 1:21).
The Spirit’s Name: No standalone name, but He is "the Spirit of Christ" (Romans 8:9).

The Mystery Unveiled

Jesus is the embodiment of the Trinity:

"Whoever has seen Me has seen the Father" (John 14:9).
"The Spirit will glorify Me" (John 16:14).

Thus, the name of the Father, Son, and Spirit is fully revealed in Jesus (Colossians 2:9).

2. THE PRACTICE: ACTS (BAPTISM IN JESUS’ NAME)

Early Church’s Uniform Pattern

Acts 2:38: "Repent and be baptized... in the name of Jesus Christ."
Acts 8:16, 10:48, 19:5: All record baptism exclusively in Jesus’ name.

Why Jesus’ Name?

Covenant Fulfillment:

The Old Covenant was in YHWH’s name; the New Covenant is in Jesus’ name (Hebrews 8:6-13).

Authority Over All:

"God has given Him the name above every name" (Philippians 2:9-11).
Demons flee, sins are forgiven, and the church is built in His name alone (Acts 4:12; Colossians 3:17).

Confessional Necessity:

Baptism proclaimed allegiance to Jesus as Lord (Romans 10:9-10).

3. RESOLVING THE TENSION: ONE NAME, ONE GOD

Jesus as the Trinity’s Revelation

The Father’s name is manifested in Jesus (John 17:6, 26).
The Spirit is "the Spirit of Christ" (Romans 8:9) who points to Him.
Conclusion: Baptism in Jesus’ name is baptism into the Triune God—because all divine authority flows through Him (Matthew 28:18).

Early Church Perspective

They saw no contradiction because:

To invoke Jesus was to invoke the Father who sent Him and the Spirit He poured out.
Example: Paul blesses with "grace of Christ... love of God... fellowship of the Spirit" (2 Corinthians 13:14)—one God, three persons.

4. WHY THIS MATTERS TODAY

Against Division

Error 1: "Only Jesus’ name baptism is valid!" → Risks neglecting the Trinity’s fullness.
Error 2: "The Trinitarian formula is just tradition!" → Ignores Jesus’ direct command.

For Unity

Form: Matthew 28:19 (theological truth).
Function: Acts (practical confession of Christ’s lordship).
Both/And: The early church’s practice fulfilled Jesus’ command, not contradicted it.

5. CONCLUSION: THE NAME ABOVE ALL NAMES

Summary

Matthew 28:19 reveals who God is (Triune).
Acts reveals how we confess Him (through Christ).
Jesus’ name is the doorway to the Father and the vehicle of the Spirit’s power.

Call to Worship

"Baptism isn’t about a formula—it’s about being plunged into the life of the God who is Father, Son, and Spirit, fully revealed in Jesus. His name is the key that unlocks eternity."

Discussion Question

"How does understanding baptism as ‘into Jesus’ name’ shape your view of the Trinity?"

Divine Protection: When God Saved Me from a Train Accident

Before I knew Jesus as my Savior—before I even understood His love—He was already protecting me.

The Day Death Almost Railed In

I was young, unmarried, and spiritually lost. One ordinary day, I was crossing railway tracks where there were no gates, no alarms—just an open path where vehicles were expected to stop, look, and listen for trains. But I didn’t stop. I didn’t even check.

I simply crossed.

Then, in a heart-stopping moment, I saw it: a train, just a few yards away, barreling toward me. By sheer seconds, I made it to the other side. The rush of wind, the deafening horn, the terror of what almost happened—it left me shaking. At the time, I brushed it off as luck. But now? Now I know the truth: God protected me long before I acknowledged Him.

The God Who Guards the Unaware

Isn’t it just like our Lord? "He shields all who take refuge in Him" (Psalm 18:30)—even those who don’t yet realize He’s their refuge. Looking back, I see His hand everywhere:

Mercy when I didn’t deserve it. I was reckless; He was watchful.
Protection when I didn’t ask for it. I didn’t pray—He acted anyway.
A testimony before I even understood it. That moment became proof of His relentless love.

The world calls it coincidence. Faith calls it providence.

Now I Know

Today, when I remember that near-disaster, I don’t just feel fear—I feel awe. The same God who spared me then is the God I worship now. And if He cared for me before I knew Him, how much more will He guard me now that I’m His?

"The Lord will rescue me from every evil attack and will bring me safely to His heavenly kingdom. To Him be glory forever and ever. Amen!" (2 Timothy 4:18).

Your turn: Look back. Where has God protected you—even when you didn’t realize it at the time?