Category: <span>thoughts by Rick Vega</span>


“It is for freedom that Christ has set us free. Stand firm, then, and do not let yourselves be burdened again by a yoke of slavery” Galatians 5:1


A slave, released from years of bondage, wouldn’t need to be informed that it was for his freedom that he’d been freed. He’d never go back to that bondage. Amazingly, God must remind us that we have been set free to be free, and warns that if we go back, Christ will be of no value to us at all (Galatians 5:2).

There’s always a cost in being set free. Those forgetting this soon fail to appreciate what they have been given. When God left His throne, He came to set you free. Seeing you in prison, powerless, and in bondage to your sins, He left heaven to purchase your release with His own blood.

Be very careful to remember the cost of your freedom or you may drift back into slavery by subtly seeking approval from God for your good works, forgetting that it is His work alone on the cross that justifies you. Or slip into longing for the old world and its lusts, forgetting the yoke of bondage you were in. 2 Peter 3:17 states,

“Therefore, dear friends, since you have been forewarned, be on your guard so that you may not be carried away by the error of the lawless and fall from your secure position.”

Remember when you first believed and how precious He was to you at the beginning? Never forget it was for freedom that He set you free.

Lord keep me from my old way of thinking and take away my desires for worthless things. Remind me often that you alone by the death on the cross have removed my sins and given me a righteousness that was not my own. Amen.

Memorize this: for apart from Me you can do nothing (John 15:5), which shows our total dependence on the grace of God.

By Rich Vega
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Further Reading

• A Yoke of Freedom or Bondage – A Devotional by Karen Woodard

Freedom Reigns in This Place – A Devotional by Claire Colvin

Freedom in the Truth A Devotional by Debbie West


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Thoughts by Men thoughts by Rick Vega


“For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all.” 2 Corinthians 4:17


You woke up thinking it might be over today. Your mind is free for the moment, but you fear those dreadful thoughts may come back. It’s your private battle and you can’t talk to anyone about it. They wouldn’t understand. Some days are better, but you’re tired and you don’t know if you can make it through another hour.

Don’t lose heart. You’re not alone. There is someone who knows exactly what you are going through.

The devil wants to sift you as wheat and devour you, so don’t be surprised when your faith is tested as if something strange is happening to you. God is the author and finisher of our faith and He prays for us, that after we have gone through the trial, our faith will not fail. God knows how much we can bear and at the right time He provides a way out (1 Corinthians 10:13).

Commit your soul to Him who is faithful and be thankful, not for the trial but because you’re His child.

Remember, you will have peace when your mind stays on Him and trusts Him.

Don’t be afraid. Your battle is now in the open. Jesus told Peter, “after you have denied me, and you return, strengthen your brothers” (Luke 22:32.) Stand up and go forward, because someone out there needs you, and you know exactly what they’re going through.

Lord, you are faithful and know what’s best for us, remind us that your grace is sufficient and that your power is made perfect in weakness. Then I can say when I am weak, I am strong. Amen.

Today’s Challenge: Speak with those who are going through trials and let them know you understand what they are going through. Then comfort them with the comfort you have received.

By Rich Vega
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Further Reading

•  Perfectly Weak – by Francis Frangipane

•  My Weakness, God’s Strength –  by Kath H Jones

•  His Strength Made Ours – by Bethany Hayes


Thoughts by Men thoughts by Rick Vega


And when he again brings the firstborn into the world he says, ‘And let all the angels of God worship him.’ And of the angels he says, ‘Who makes his angels winds and his ministers a flame of fire.’  Hebrews 1:6-7


They have been watching us since the beginning of time. A few people have had encounters with them.

We have always had a fascination with angels.

Consider these brilliant, powerful creatures who filled the night sky announcing Christ’s coming to the shepherds. At his darkest hour in the olive garden they appeared to strengthen their Lord, and on his glorious resurrection morning they moved the heavy stone, terrifying the soldiers guarding the tomb.

As we ponder their existence, remember their purpose. Many quietly minister to God’s people and serve their Lord who created them. It’s the fallen ones who make a great commotion. Be careful of these who disguise themselves to deceive men, supporting the atheist yet desiring our worship. That’s idolatry.

We’re warned not to listen to any angel bringing us a different message (Galatians 1:8) than the truth that Jesus, made lower than the angels for a little while, is now crowned with glory and honor because he suffered death so that, by the grace of God, he might bring eternal life.

What about you? What voices do you hear? On the earth, evil spirits fight to get your attention. In heaven, there are voices of millions of angels and believers around the throne saying, “Worthy is the Lamb that was slain to receive power, riches, wisdom, might, honor, glory and blessing” (Revelation 5:12) as they all fall down and worship. So should we.

Precious Lord, you have redeemed us to God by your blood and are worthy of our praise. You alone deserve our worship. Thank you for making us sons and daughters and bringing angels to minister to us. Amen.

By Rich Vega
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Further Reading

•  Angels: The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly by Sue Bolin

•  Guardian Angels Watching Over Us – by Dr. Bill Bright

•  Army of Angels | A Story of a Miracle


Thoughts by Men thoughts by Rick Vega


“And I will ask the Father and he will give you another advocate to help you and be with you forever — the Spirit of truth. The world cannot accept him because it neither sees him nor knows him. But you know him, for he lives with you and will be in you.” John 14:16-17


Sometimes I wake up and wonder if God’s still there. It’s been a while since I talked with him. I get busy with so many things. How can I go so long without thinking of him and confessing my sins? I wonder if I’m just a hypocrite and fear that maybe he’s not with me anymore.

Then I hear God say to my soul, *“you’re still mine” (Romans 8:16), gently reminding me that he gave me a new heart and a new spirit.

Then I hear him say, And if the Spirit of him who raised Jesus from the dead is living in you, he who raised Christ from the dead will also give life to your mortal bodies because of his Spirit who lives in you” (Romans 8:11). He takes me again to the foot of the cross, pointing to Jesus who paid for all my sins. He fills my mind with the truth.

What about you? Do you sometimes feel that God has left you? Be of good cheer. He’s still there filling your mind, soul, and heart with the truth.

It’s a mystery that Christ is in us, and his Spirit is living on the inside. But the truth is that he is our hope of glory and the guarantee of our inheritance. The Holy Spirit will never leave us or forsake us; even when we are faithless, he remains faithful.

Lord, thank you for sending your Holy Spirit to be with me and in me, and for being the author and finisher of my faith. Amen.

By Rich Vega
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Further Reading

•  God Demonstrates His Love like this…

•  God is GOOD

•  Salvation Explained


Thoughts by Men thoughts by Rick Vega


“Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid”  John 14:27


Some of you reading this right now are very much afraid. The hardest trials are those that can’t be talked about with anyone else.

Often, unpleasant thoughts seek to occupy us as soon as we awake. Resistance flies away, then comes anxiety and dread, flooding our soul with despair. Hours and days pass without relief. Exhausted, our souls cry out, how long, Lord? But peace feels far away and unattainable.

Take heart, fellow pilgrim. You’re not alone. There are others suffering the same and know exactly how you feel. (1 Peter 5:9)

More importantly, Jesus gives you his peace, so do not be afraid anymore.

Peace and fear can’t be in the same room at the same time. Do not grow weary in the battle but be encouraged filling your mind with his Word:

So do not fear, for I am with you. Do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you. (Isaiah 41:10)

You will keep him in perfect peace whose mind is stayed on you, because he trusts in you. (Isaiah 26:3)

He did not give us a spirit of fear, but of love and a sound mind. (2 Timothy 1:7)

Fear not, for I have redeemed you. I have called you by my name. You are mine. (Isaiah 43:1)

The Lord shall preserve you from all evil. He shall preserve your soul. (Psalm 121:7)

We are called to suffer and share in being comforted by our Lord. Praise to our God who comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves receive from God. (2 Corinthians 1:3-4)

Someone will cross your path one day. You will understand exactly how they feel and be their help from God.

Lord, enable us by Your Spirit to fill our minds and hearts with your truths. Thank you for giving us peace and delivering us from the darkness into your marvelous light! “When anxiety was great within me, your consolation brought me joy” (Psalm 94:19)

By Rich Vega
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Further Reading

•  Struggles, Despair

•  Getting Life Back on Track 

•  Salvation Explained


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Thoughts by Men thoughts by Rick Vega

“You see, at just the right time, when we were powerless, Christ died for the ungodly.”  Romans 5:6


This past weekend another unexpected fire hit our little mountain town. Laughter and joy of celebrating my daughter’s birthday quickly morphed into anxiety, dread and fear. Reflecting on my emotions after seeing the helicopters and planes clean up today, I am left with the overwhelming feeling of powerlessness.

Most fires have an unknown origin. They appear suddenly, with the wind its driving force, leaving terrible destruction.

When the fire came within ¼ mile of our home, the wind changed direction. I know that God controls the wind and am thankful to him that our house was preserved.

Sin is like a consuming fire. It is also insatiable and destroys everything it touches. Without Christ, oddly we felt indestructible and confident, thoroughly enjoying the passing pleasures of sin.

We were comfortable, not realizing we were slaves to the desires that would take us ultimately to our eternal destruction.

When the truth came to our ears, fear gripped our hearts. But we were unable and without strength to change. Then great sorrow and dreadfulness overcame us.

Now let us marvel at the goodness and mercy of God. When we were still powerless, in due time, Christ died for the ungodly.

Then, just like the wind that goes where it wishes, the Spirit came to us granting repentance and we believed.

What about you? Are you comfortable in what you love to do? Don’t quiet your conscience. The flames of sin can bring you quickly to an eternal place you don’t want to go.

May the Lord change the wind in your life, bringing you his Spirit who alone can preserve your soul.

Precious Lord Jesus, we were not only ungodly, but unable to change. Thank you for your great mercy as you brought us great deliverance in such a hopeless state. We praise you for preserving our souls now and forevermore!

By Rich Vega
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Further Reading

•  What Do You Want Jesus to Say When you Meet Him Face to Face?

•  Spiritual Oxygen: Are You Getting Enough?

•  Salvation Explained


Thoughts by Men thoughts by Rick Vega

Therefore, I tell you, because her many sins have been forgiven, she has loved much. But he who has been forgiven little loves little.”  Luke 7:47

It is the goodness and kindness of God that led us to the door of repentance. When we entered, we found the word of God, which showed us how sinful we are. (Romans 3:20)

When a sinful woman from the town learned where Jesus was eating, she came to him weeping and found forgiveness.

The day I heard the Lord say, “your sins are forgiven” was the best day of my life. Over the years, I struggled with sins and following the Lord in praying, giving, and sharing his love to others. I was a sheep who loved Jesus little, perhaps because I had been forgiven little.

Upon reading this passage recently, I heard the Lord say, “your many sins are forgiven.” The word many really stood out this time: countless, or great in number.

Christian friend, when we first believed, we had a clear view of our sins and the absolute forgiveness God granted to us. As far as the east is from the west, so far had he removed our sins from us.

As the days and years pass, sadly, we still offend. Some sins are evident; others are hidden, but not to Him. They are countless. He knows them intimately and died for them all.

Let us daily hear him say to us, “your sins, which are many, are forgiven you.” Then we will love much more and no longer live for ourselves, but for him who died for us.

We will meet him soon. And he will say, “well done, my good and faithful servant. Your sins, which were many, are forgiven.”

My Lord, as your servant David said, “who am I that you have brought me this far?” I thank you that it was you that began a good work in me and promised to carry it on to completion. Thank you for continuing to show me what a great sinner I am so that I can love you the more.

By Rich Vega
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Further Reading

•  Pressing the RESET button on our lives 

•   Keeping Yourself in God’s Love – even during painful times in your life

•  Salvation Explained


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Thoughts by Men thoughts by Rick Vega

“For sin shall no longer be your master, because you are not under the law, but under grace.”  Romans 6:14


Since becoming a Christian in my early twenties, I often reflect on how my actions are often disappointing and shameful. And it seems to me that a greater understanding of spiritual truths has produced little improvement in my spiritual walk.

The apostle describes this frustration perfectly, “I know that good itself doesn’t dwell in me, that is in my sinful nature. For I have the desire to do what is good, but I can’t carry it out. I don’t do the good I want to do, but it’s the evil I don’t want to do that I keep doing” (Romans 7:18-19).

Fellow pilgrim, let’s take heart together and look to Jesus, who said, “without me you can do nothing.”

He gave the Holy Spirit to dwell in us. Our minds are set on what the Spirit desires; yet, there is a war between the flesh and the Spirit (Galatians 5:17).

It is by the Spirit that we put to death the misdeeds of the body. Let me repeat this. By the Spirit we win the battles. We live in his realm – where he rules.

He helps us in our weaknesses. We don’t know how to pray, but he intercedes for us according to God’s will.

He leads us and empowers us so that we are no longer slaves of sin. We don’t fear judgement anymore, since the Spirit testifies with our spirit that we are God’s children (Romans 8:13-15).

Before we were born, God foreknew us and predestined that we would be conformed to the image of his Son. This is God’s promise. He never lies.

Remember when we weren’t his? We had no battles — we were simply following our desires without resistance. Let us thank him for the war. Because he lives in us in all his resurrection power, we will be raised to eternal life at the end, pure and holy, the victory forever won.

Lord Jesus, thank you for giving us the Spirit! He lives in us and guarantees that we receive everything you have promised, including eternal life. Remind us often that it is by his power living in us that we will follow you to the end by faith.

Whenever you are tempted, remind yourself that God himself lives in you by his Spirit and gives you all the power you need to step out in faith and obey him step by step. Say no to sin, and yes to him, trusting that he is enabling you to do so.

By Rich Vega
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Further Reading

•   Hope for those without Hope by Mike Woodard

•   Hearing God’s Voice

•  Salvation Explained


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Thoughts by Men thoughts by Rick Vega

Christian friend, is there someone you haven’t spoken to in a while? Don’t lose hope. Keep praying for the one you love. You might see the whole picture soon.


They all joined together constantly in prayer, along with the women and Mary the mother of Jesus, and with his brothers.Acts 1:14

My brother and I hadn’t spoken for a while. At first, my unanswered calls led to confusion. I was sure he was mad at me, but I wanted to talk. Over the months, my other attempts were also met with silence. Anger and resentment filled my heart. I also felt sadness and great loss. Sometimes, there are things we just don’t understand.

Jesus was greatly misunderstood by his siblings. Growing up with the story that your brother didn’t have an earthly father, must have been confusing. I wouldn’t have believed the virgin birth either. It’s also easy to understand resenting a perfect, sinless brother.

At the end, we see anger and bitterness openly manifested when his family tries to take him away from the crowds saying, “He is out of his mind.” Even his own brothers didn’t believe in him (John 7:3-5).

They didn’t have the whole picture yet. Jesus’s deity was veiled. He made himself nothing, being found in appearance as a man. Being equal with God, but not using it to his own advantage, humbling himself, being obedient to death (Philippians 2:6-8). This was God’s plan and would be revealed at the right time.

I’m glad for these words “and with his brothers.” Our Lord was merciful to his brothers. After seeing Jesus taken up with their own eyes, they now understood everything.

Christian friend, is there someone you haven’t spoken to in a while? Don’t lose hope. Keep praying for the one you love. You might see the whole picture soon.

After 2 years, my brother called wanting to get together. I didn’t know the whole story.

Lord Jesus, you do everything well. Even in your humiliation you excel, being gracious and merciful, providing the perfect sacrifice for our sins. We thank you and praise you Lord! Help us to be patient and loving with others even when we don’t understand what is happening.

Entrust any difficult circumstance or relationship that comes to mind to Jesus, trusting him for the wisdom and strength to deal with it according to his will.

By Rich Vega
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Further Reading

How to Experience God’s Love and Forgiveness (3 parts)

The Power of Forgiveness | by Dr. Henry Brandt

•  Salvation Explained


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Thoughts by Men thoughts by Rick Vega


Then a man named Jairus, a synagogue leader, came and fell at Jesus’ feet pleading with him to come to his house because his only daughter, a girl of about 12, was dying.” Luke 8:41-42

Growing up in a small mountain ski town, my son became an experienced snowboarder. Two years ago, he was late coming back after taking a couple of runs. My worry was replaced quickly with fear after I received a call from the hospital emergency room stating that he was going into surgery with internal bleeding.

Fear usually comes upon us unexpectedly when we have no control over the situation.

The news comes in many ways. You go for a routine physical and your doctor calls wanting to go over your lab results. Your teenager’s late getting home, then you see a police officer pull up your driveway.

Jairus was not a known follower of Jesus. Many of his peers were suspicious and envious of Jesus. Then fear came suddenly to his house. His little girl was dying, bringing him begging at Jesus’ feet. Then came those dreaded words, “Your daughter is dead, don’t bother the teacher anymore.”

But Jesus said to him, “Don’t be afraid, just believe and she will be healed.” Well, we’re still reading this incredible story.

Christian friend, has your greatest fear come upon you? Hear his word to you,

For I am the Lord your God who takes hold of your right hand and says to you, do not fear: I will help you” (Isaiah 41:13).

And also,

I am the resurrection and the life. The one who believes in me will live even though they die” (John 11:25).

My son’s getting married this year. Often God gives us earthly treasures. More importantly, he’s pleased to give us the kingdom (Luke 12:32).

Father, you know that I am weak and fear many things. Help me through your Word and your Spirit to trust you. You are my light and salvation, the stronghold of my life, of whom shall I be afraid?

Remind yourself often that God is with you and is upholding you and strengthening you for every task he is entrusting to you.

By Rich Vega
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Further Reading

Jesus is Always There!
Wisdom and Knowledge of God
•  Salvation Explained

Thoughts by Men thoughts by Rick Vega


Jesus replied, “Are you not in error because you do not know the Scriptures or the power of God?Mark 12:24

Mistakes are always costly.

In business, errors are eventually revealed, and though unintentional, usually result in money coming out of someone’s pocket.

When it comes to eternal matters, the consequences for being wrong are severe. We all share the same problem.

“There is a way that seems right to a man, but its end is the way of death” (Proverbs 14:2).

The Sadducee’s felt secure in their belief that the dead do not rise. In his kindness, Jesus took the time to set them straight. He said,

He is not the God of the dead, but the God of the living, therefore, you are greatly mistaken” (Mark 12:27).

Paul, the apostle, wrote to those doubters,

If the dead aren’t raised, then Christ hasn’t risen either. Your faith is useless and you’re still in your sins and lost. But Christ has indeed been raised from the dead
(1 Corinthians 15:13-20).

Friend, you who must see to believe, don’t doubt. Learn from the Sadducee’s’ mistake. Don’t be deceived by the dictates of your own heart. Instead, listen to Jesus, “you are in error because you do not know the Scriptures or the power of God.

There’s a day coming. Jesus will sit on a great white throne. The dead, both great and small, will stand before him. Books will be opened, and each one will be judged by what is recorded in the books.

**Will your name be found in the Book of Life? **

Jesus thank you for delivering me from the deception of my own heart. Because you live, I know I will live and see you one day soon.

Ask God to lead you to people who have not yet passed from death to life by putting their faith in Jesus. Pray for them and ask God to grant you opportunities to invite them to experience eternal life with Jesus.

By Rich Vega
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FURTHER READING

•  Why Know the Father’s Heart by Sylvia Gunter
•  The God of Justice by Skip Moen

Learn more about knowing Jesus at: https://thoughts-about-god.com/four-laws/


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Thoughts by Men thoughts by Rick Vega


Jesus said, “Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing.” And they divided up his clothes by casting lots.  Luke 23:34

God always makes the first move. He seeks those that are not looking for him. We love him because he first loved us. He chooses to forgive sinners who have no idea of the magnitude of the offenses they have committed against him.

Let’s peer into the window of time and see Jesus’ last hours on earth as he hangs on the cross.
His worst enemies in attendance.

Vile, heartless soldiers and envious religious leaders watching from below.
Next to him two criminals crying out,

If you’re the Son of God save yourself and us” (Luke 23:39).

**Amazingly, what do we hear next? **

Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing.”

Look closely at what follows. Out of this group, some find undeserving grace.
Light to open blinded eyes supplied.
The Spirit dispatched to soften hardened hearts.

“Truly this was the Son of God”, proclaim the soldiers guarding him (Matthew 27:54).

“Jesus, remember me when you come into your kingdom,” utters the repentant thief.

Later, some of the Pharisees believe in their Messiah.

What about you?

Do you doubt God, or do you just want him to get you out of trouble?

Take heart. Our Lord finds people like you and me who aren’t looking for him. He reveals himself to those who aren’t asking for him (Romans 10:20). When we take our last breath, may we hear these words: *

You did not choose me, but I chose you. Come, you who are blessed by my Father, take your inheritance, the kingdom prepared for you since the creation of the world.”

Thank you, Jesus, for granting us mercy as you suffered so greatly for our sins. Eternity will not be long enough to express our love and gratitude.

Ask the Lord to help you trust his promises concerning his love for you and ask him to help you remain faithful as you walk in the Spirit by faith.

By Rich Vega
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FURTHER READING

•  Jesus has Forgiven you, but Have you forgiven Yourself ?
•  On Trial before Pilate by Max Lucado
•  “Father, Forgive Them” by Max Lucado

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Thoughts by Men thoughts by Rick Vega


He will also keep you firm to the end so that you will be blameless on the day of our Lord Jesus Christ. God is faithful who has called you into fellowship with his Son Jesus Christ our Lord.1 Corinthians 1:8-9

Often, we get a better understanding of what something is by what it is not. Unfaithfulness is one of those words. There is nothing sadder than the harm that comes to a relationship after one of the parties has been unreliable, untrustworthy, disloyal, or untrue. No matter how great the love was, there is an end to the trust that held it together.

I know that God initiated our relationship and I love him because he loved me first. Sadly, I often fail to honor my part in the relationship. My heart tends to stray and sometimes my neglect causes me to fear that he may leave me before I die.

Then I remember his words,

I will betroth you to me forever in righteousness, justice, love, and compassion”  (Hosea 2:19).

Though I may be disloyal and faithless, he remains faithful. He made a promise and he cannot lie. He saw all the sins I would commit before he created me, yet he still called me into fellowship with his Son.

How can this be? When Jesus died for my sins, it was fitting and lawful for me to be loved since he became my righteousness, holiness, and redemption (1 Corinthians 1:30).

Christian friend, let your soul take heart and be encouraged. He who began a good work in you will complete it until the day of Christ Jesus. Yes, we stumble along the way, but we will not fall away. He will keep us both firm to the end and blameless on that final day. He is faithful and always keeps his promise.

Lord Jesus, I am not worthy of your love, yet I am so thankful for your faithfulness. I know that because the Father loves you, he loves me and that I will be found in you on that last day.

Thank God often for his unfailing, faithful, eternal love.

By Rich Vega
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FURTHER READING

Cling to the Lord
The Re-Knitting Hand of God – What God taught me about ‘little sins’

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Thoughts by Men thoughts by Rick Vega


When they heard about the resurrection of the dead, some of them sneered, but others said, “We want to hear you again on this subject.” At that, Paul left the council. Some of the people became followers of Paul and believed.” Acts 17:32-34

When the gospel is preached, there are always three responses. Some will mock and ridicule the resurrection. By God’s grace, others hear the truth and believe. But it’s another group I want to talk about today.

Many enjoy hearing the message but aren’t quite ready to believe and follow the Lord. King Agrippa told Paul, after hearing of Jesus being raised from the dead, “you almost persuade me to become a Christian” (Acts 26:28).

Felix, after listening to Paul speak on the judgment to come, was afraid saying, “Go away for now, when I have a convenient time, I will call you” (Acts 24:25).

I remember being in the same place. I enjoyed hearing the message and knew it was the truth. But I was also afraid, knowing I deserved to be judged for my sins. I thank God for drawing me back and enabling me to believe.

What about you, friend? Are you almost persuaded? Are you afraid? Or are you like Thomas who said, “Unless I put my finger into the print of the nails, I will not believe.” Today is the day of salvation! Jesus will not turn you away.

God is patient and long-suffering. It’s his goodness that leads us to repentance. But he also says, “Today, if you will hear his voice, do not harden your hearts.”

Hell is full of those who mistakenly thought they had plenty of time to make a good decision. “We will hear you again on this matter.” These words muttered on the earth will surely haunt them forever.

Lord Jesus, thank you for patiently bringing all your sheep into the fold. I am forever grateful that I heard your voice and followed you. Bring in the rest by your grace and for your glory!

What is God asking you to believe him for today? Will you sneer, hesitate, or full-heartedly trust in him?

By Rich Vega
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FURTHER READING

• Eternal Love
• Fully Surrender to the Lord

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Thoughts by Men thoughts by Rick Vega


The law was brought in so that the trespass might increase. But where sin increased, grace increased all the more.”  Romans 5:20

We gaze into the mirror every morning.

The reflection may reveal unpleasant wrinkles and aging, yet this doesn’t keep us from our next appointment with the mirror.

The law of God is like a mirror. It simply reveals the truth that we are sinners. No more, no less. God wants us to see ourselves as he sees us. For example, when we look into the mirror – the law of God – we might hear the command “Do not lie”, and we see that we are liars.

His law reveals the knowledge of our sins and declares that no one is justified in his sight (Romans 3:19-20). Unlike the mirror in our bathroom, this often frightens us, and so we run away from it.

Thankfully, the Holy Spirit brings us back to God’s mirror.

He knows this is our tutor to lead us to Jesus. Believer, the law of God has been your friend. It opened the passage to the narrow path, bringing you to the cross of your Savior where your sins were paid in full.

And you who attempt to be justified by solely keeping the Ten Commandments? Understand that whoever keeps the whole law and yet stumbles at just one point is guilty of all (James 2:10) unless they accept Jesus as their Savior.

Pick up the mirror of God. What do you see in the reflection? Don’t be afraid, only repent. Jesus will not turn you away. He’s waiting for you.

Thank you, merciful Lord, for showing us what we didn’t want to see. This was your power and grace at work in our hearts! Thank you for revealing Jesus, our Savior who forgives undeserving sinners. Amen.

Look in the mirror. What do you see first, your flaws or your good points? What do you think God sees first when he looks into your soul? With Jesus in your life, you can be sure he sees Christ’s goodness.

By Rich Vega
Used by Permission

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Beauty out of Brokenness

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Thoughts by Men thoughts by Rick Vega