The Role of an Elder in the Church

August 4, 2024 By Dr. David K. Ewen

An Elder in a general Christian denomination is a leadership role within the church. This role has its roots in biblical scripture and historical practice. For example, Acts 14:23 describes Elders being appointed in every church. Moreover, the term “Elder” (presbuteros in Greek) is used extensively in the New Testament to refer to church leaders. Additionally, the role of an elder in the church often works closely with Senior Pastors and Apostles to oversee church affairs. Shepherds of God’s Flock... Read more

Jeremiah’s Joy in God’s Words

August 3, 2024 By Dr. David K. Ewen

Jeremiah 15:16 is a verse from the Old Testament. In this verse, Jeremiah talks about his feelings when he receives God’s words. He says, “Your words were found, and I ate them.” These words brought him great joy and delight. This feeling is similar to the joy mentioned in Psalm 119:103, where the psalmist says, “How sweet are your words to my taste, sweeter than honey to my mouth!” Jeremiah’s joy in God’s words is evident in this passage. Joy... Read more

Jesus’ Prayer and Mental Health

August 3, 2024 By Dr. David K. Ewen

Jesus was in the Garden of Gethsemane, praying before his arrest. He felt very sad and worried. Jesus knew what was coming, and this story shows the importance of Jesus’ prayer and mental health. Jesus’ Prayer He prayed to God, asking if there was a way to avoid the suffering. However, he also said he wanted to do God’s will. While Jesus prayed (Luke 22:41-44), an angel came to strengthen him. Jesus was in so much pain that his sweat... Read more

The Reluctant Prophet’s Story

August 3, 2024 By Dr. David K. Ewen

The Book of Jonah tells a unique story about Jonah’s mission to Nineveh. God commands Jonah to warn Nineveh about their bad behavior. However, Jonah tries to escape, making the reluctant prophet’s story more compelling. This is all about the reluctant prophet’s story. Jonah’s Mission to Nineveh The Book of Jonah is part of the minor prophets in the Old Testament. It tells a unique story about Jonah’s mission to the city of Nineveh. Jonah, a prophet, receives a command... Read more

The Daniel Fast is a Spiritual Journey

July 28, 2024 By Dr. David K. Ewen

The Daniel Fast is a spiritually focused 21-day partial fast. It emphasizes devotion to God through prayer and abstaining from certain foods and beverages. Participants follow a diet inspired by the biblical prophet Daniel, consuming only fruits, vegetables, whole grains, nuts, seeds, and water. Remember that the Daniel Fast is a Spiritual Journey Biblical Basis of the Daniel Fast The Daniel Fast originates from the biblical accounts of the prophet Daniel. It is based on two specific instances in scripture,... Read more

Job’s Struggles and Mental Health

July 28, 2024 By Dr. David K. Ewen

The Book of Job, especially Job 38:3-4, teaches us about suffering and mental health. God asks Job tough questions about the world’s creation, like “Where were you when I laid the earth’s foundation?” This shows how small our understanding is compared to God’s. Let’s now learn about Job’s struggles and mental health. Job’s Suffering and Mental Illness Job goes through very hard times, losing his family, health, and wealth. This is similar to how people feel when they struggle... Read more

The Importance of Self Forgiveness

July 20, 2024 By Dr. David K. Ewen

Self forgiveness is crucial for joy and fulfillment in life. It allows us to move beyond past mistakes. Accepting and letting go of guilt is essential. However, this process can be very challenging. “For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God” (Romans 3:23, NKJV). There is an importance of self forgiveness. The Role of Acceptance and Compassion To forgive oneself, acceptance and compassion are necessary. We must recognize our humanity and imperfections. Letting go of lingering... Read more

Eternal Life Through Jesus’ Resurrection

July 20, 2024 By Dr. David K. Ewen

The Resurrection of Jesus forms the cornerstone of Christian faith. It brings profound joy, forgiveness, and the hope of eternal life. Believers center their faith on Jesus’ victory over death. His victory grants redemption from sin and assurance of divine pardon. By overcoming death, Jesus shows that God’s power can conquer even the greatest enemy. This event brings eternal life through Jesus’ Resurrection. Example of Profound Joy Mary Magdalene experiences profound joy when she sees the risen Jesus. She had... Read more

Key Aspects of the Afterlife

July 20, 2024 By Dr. David K. Ewen

Christians understand heaven and eternal life with God. We see heaven as a perfect paradise. Jesus promised this to the thief on the cross, saying, “Today you will be with me in paradise” (Luke 23:43). This promise is like a light guiding believers through life’s darkness. Heaven is where Christians hope to find eternal joy and peace. Here are the key aspects of the afterlife. Resurrection of the Body Believers expect a bodily resurrection at Christ’s second coming. Jesus’ resurrection... Read more

Trust in God’s Presence and Care

June 28, 2024 By Dr. David K. Ewen

Christians should trust God is with them during disasters. Psalm 46:1-2 says, “God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble.” Jesus also promised in Matthew 28:20, “And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.” Trusting in God’s presence and care provides security and hope during crises. Turn to Prayer and Lament The Bible encourages believers to express pain and grief to God. Psalm 13:1 asks, “How long, Lord? Will you forget... Read more