New Covenant Church | Tyler, TX https://ncctyler.org Sat, 10 Jan 2026 16:36:53 +0000 Sat, 10 Jan 2026 16:36:53 +0000 hourly 1 3600 SnapPages.com Unleashed : Far More Abundantly Chris Bower https://ncctyler.org/blog/2026/03/31/unleashed-far-more-abundantly Tue, 31 Mar 2026 12:26:11 +0000 https://ncctyler.org/blog/2026/03/31/unleashed-far-more-abundantly

God's Abundant Love: Understanding the Ephesians Prayer

What does it mean to live abundantly? Many people think abundance refers only to material wealth or success. However, the Bible reveals a much deeper understanding of God's abundant nature that extends far beyond our physical needs.

What Does "Abundantly" Mean in Scripture?

The word "abundantly" appears 17 times in the ESV translation, and 16 of those instances describe God's generous provision for those who love and follow Him. This isn't about barely getting by or receiving just enough to survive.

Consider Moses striking the rock in Numbers 20:11 - water didn't just trickle out, it came forth abundantly, even in the middle of a desert. God doesn't give us scraps; He provides abundantly even in our most challenging circumstances.

God's Promise of Abundant Prosperity

Deuteronomy 30:9

"The Lord your God will make you abundantly prosperous in all the work of your hand."
This promise comes with an important condition - we must be doing what God has called us to do, not pursuing our own agenda in our own strength.
When we align ourselves with God's purposes and follow His direction, He causes us to prosper abundantly in the work He has given us.

Abundant Forgiveness and Life

Isaiah 55:7

 reminds us that God "will abundantly pardon."
No matter how far we've strayed or how many mistakes we've made, God's forgiveness is abundant. We don't have to stay stuck in our failures.

Jesus declared in John 10:10

that He came so we "may have life and have it abundantly." 
This abundant life isn't primarily about material wealth - it's about experiencing God's presence, love, and purpose in overflowing measure.

How Can We Experience God's Abundant Power?

Ephesians 3:20
 reveals that God "is able to do far more abundantly than all that we ask or think according to the power at work within us."

The key to experiencing this abundant power lies in the verses that precede it.

Being Rooted and Grounded in Love

Ephesians 3:17
speaks of being "rooted and grounded in love."

The word "rooted" means to become stable and strengthened by roots, while "grounded" refers to establishing a firm foundation. Our foundation isn't human emotion or circumstances - it's God's unchanging love and devotion.

Comprehending God's Love

The word "comprehend" in verse 18 doesn't just mean to understand intellectually. In Greek, it means to take eagerly, to lay hold of, and to make something your own. We're called to possess and be strengthened by the power of God's love.

Knowledge That Surpasses Understanding

Verse 19 speaks of knowing "the love of Christ that surpasses knowledge." This refers to knowledge higher than scientific understanding or human wisdom. While we don't dismiss scientific knowledge, we don't base everything on human understanding alone.
God's knowledge encompasses seeing the beginning from the end. Even scientists studying the universe are discovering that creation continues to expand and grow, just as it has since God first spoke light into existence.

Why Do Many Christians Limit God?

Too many believers live with just "a little bit of Jesus" when God wants to fill us to overflowing. We often settle for less than what God desires to give us.
When we experience breakthrough moments - revelation while reading Scripture or sensing God's presence in prayer - we might think we've reached the pinnacle. But God says, "You haven't seen anything yet. This is just the beginning."

More Than Abundantly

Notice that Ephesians 3:20 doesn't just say God can do "abundantly" - it says "far more abundantly." There's an emphasis on "more" that reveals God's nature. He's not just abundant; He's more abundant than we can imagine.
This abundance multiplies when we come together as the body of Christ. Individual fullness combined with others' fullness creates exponential abundance in the church community.

What Is God's Ultimate Purpose?

Ephesians 3:21
reveals the ultimate goal: "To him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, forever and ever."

Life Application

This week, challenge yourself to stop limiting God in your thinking and prayers. Instead of asking for just enough to get by, begin to pray and believe for God's abundant provision in every area of your life - spiritual, emotional, relational, and physical.

Ground yourself daily in the truth of God's unchanging love. When you face difficulties or feel distant from God, remember that His love is your foundation, not your circumstances or feelings.

Ask yourself these questions:

  • In what areas of my life am I settling for "just enough" instead of believing for God's abundance?
  • How can I better root and ground myself in God's love rather than in my circumstances?
  • What would change in my prayers if I truly believed God wants to do "far more abundantly" than I can ask or think?
  • How can I contribute to the corporate abundance and glory of God in my church community?
Remember, God is not a God of scarcity but of abundance. He desires to fill you with all His fullness and to work through you in ways that exceed your greatest expectations. Don't limit Him - instead, position yourself to receive and experience His abundant love and power.
]]> https://ncctyler.org/blog/2026/03/31/unleashed-far-more-abundantly#comments 0 Unleashed: Here I Bow Chris Bower https://ncctyler.org/blog/2026/03/24/unleashed-here-i-bow Tue, 24 Mar 2026 12:13:10 +0000 https://ncctyler.org/blog/2026/03/24/unleashed-here-i-bow

For This Reason, I Bow: Understanding Our Identity in God's Kingdom

In a world that constantly tries to define who we are, there's something powerful about understanding our true identity in Christ. When we grasp the magnitude of what God has done for us, there's only one appropriate response: we bow.

Why Should We Bow Before God?

The apostle Paul gives us compelling reasons to bow our knees before the Father. We should bow because God has blessed us with every spiritual blessing in heavenly places. He has predestined us for adoption, redeemed us through Christ's blood, and given us an inheritance in Him.
We bow because He has sealed us with the Holy Spirit and given us the Spirit of wisdom and revelation that we might know Him. He's pouring out the immeasurable greatness of His power through His church, seated us in heavenly places in Christ, and confirmed that we are His workmanship, created for good works.

What Does It Mean to Bow?

Bowing is a posture of humility, reverence, and honor. Think of an earthly king - when he's at home with family, he's simply "dad." But when he puts on his crown and robe and enters the throne room, everyone bows because they're honoring him as king.

There are times when Jesus manifests not as the gentle Lamb, but as the Lion of Judah. As good Christians, we love Savior Jesus, Friend Jesus, and the Good Shepherd. But we must also recognize when He steps in as King - and when He does, we bow.

How Does God Define Our Identity?

Scripture tells us that "from whom every family in heaven and on earth is named." This deals directly with our identity. Spiritually, we are either identified as children of God or children of the devil - there is no in-between.

What Happens When We're Born Again?

We completely change spiritual identities when we are born again.

Colossians 1:13
says God "has delivered us from the domain of darkness and transferred us into the kingdom of his beloved Son."

This transfer isn't like getting a promotion or changing jobs within the same company. It's a complete transference - an uprooting from the kingdom of darkness and a complete planting into the kingdom of God. We become new creations; the old has passed away, and all things have become new.

Where Should Our Identity Come From?

Every family receives its identity from how we respond to God. Our identity must be rooted in God and nothing else - not what the enemy wants to put on us, not what the world wants to label us, but only the identity that God gives us.

We may have many nicknames and titles throughout life, but none of those are our true identity. Our true identity is found when God calls us "son" or "daughter" in His kingdom.

What Are the Riches of His Glory?

Paul prays that "according to the riches of his glory, he may grant you to be strengthened with power through his spirit in your inner being." The word "riches" means abundance, fullness, and plenty. We could say it's the immeasurable riches of His glory.

Understanding Glory

The Greek word for glory, "doxa," has a wide range of meanings including honor, praise, dignity, magnificence, excellence, preeminence, and majesty. One source defines it as "the manifestation of the fullness of God."

When Jesus turned water into wine, Scripture says He "manifested his glory, and his disciples believed in him." They didn't just believe because they saw a sign - they believed because they experienced glory.

Should We Chase Signs and Miracles?

While God certainly performs miracles, signs, and wonders, we shouldn't chase after these things. Scripture warns that "an evil and adulterous generation seeks for a sign." The enemy can mimic signs, but he cannot mimic the glory of God.

Instead of chasing miracles, we should chase God. When we get into God's presence, miracles will happen and signs will occur, but our focus should be on pursuing Him, not the manifestations.

What Does It Mean to Experience His Glory?

When we honor God's presence and make room for the King, we position ourselves to host His glory. This isn't about chasing something - it's about welcoming the presence of God in a deeper way.

While we know doctrinally that God is omnipresent and always with us, there's something different about intentionally walking in His presence and acknowledging it. We're called to "walk in a manner worthy of the Lord."

How Does Glory Transform Us?

When heavenly glory overlaps the earthly, something has to yield - and it's always the earthly that must yield to the supremacy and authority of the heavenly.

Second Corinthians 3:18 tells us we are changed from glory to glory.

When God's Spirit strengthens our inner being with power, Christ can make a permanent home in our hearts through faith. This goes beyond just being the temple of the Holy Spirit - it's about encountering God in such a way that there's an expression of who He is coming out through us.

Life Application

This week, challenge yourself to intentionally acknowledge God's presence throughout your day. Instead of just going through the motions of faith, take time to bow - both literally and figuratively - before the King of Kings.

Ask yourself these questions:
  1. Am I living according to my true identity as a child of God, or am I allowing the world to define who I am? 
  2. Am I chasing after signs and experiences, or am I pursuing God Himself?
  3. Is His heavenly glory overlapping my earthly life in such a way that Christ has a permanent home in my heart?
Remember, we've been completely transferred from the kingdom of darkness into the kingdom of light. We are new creations with a new identity. For this reason - for all that God has done and continues to do - we bow our knees before the Father and walk worthy of our calling as His children.
]]> https://ncctyler.org/blog/2026/03/24/unleashed-here-i-bow#comments 0 Unleashed: Fire In The Hole Chris Bower https://ncctyler.org/blog/2026/03/17/unleashed-fire-in-the-hole Tue, 17 Mar 2026 13:10:59 +0000 https://ncctyler.org/blog/2026/03/17/unleashed-fire-in-the-hole

Fire In The Hole

Fire in the Hole: Understanding God's Immeasurable Power in Your Life

When miners are about to detonate dynamite, they shout "Fire in the hole!" to warn everyone that something powerful is about to happen. In the same way, when Jesus promised His followers would receive power through the Holy Spirit, He was essentially shouting "Fire in the hole!" - warning them that God's dynamic power was about to be unleashed in their lives.

What Does God's Power Look Like?

The English word "dynamite" comes from the Greek word "dunamis," which means strength, ability, and power. In the New Testament, this word is translated as "mighty work," "miracle," and most often as "power." When Jesus told His disciples in Acts 1:8 that they would receive power when the Holy Spirit came upon them, He was promising them access to God's dunamis power - the same explosive, life-changing force that would transform their lives and ministry.

How Great Is God's Power?

God's Power Is Immeasurable

Ephesians 1:19 speaks of "the immeasurable greatness of his power."
The word "great" used here appears only once in the New Testament and literally means "magnitude" - something great in quality, quantity, and importance. The root word means the greatest, highest, largest, mightiest, and strongest.

But what makes God's power truly remarkable is that it's immeasurable. There are no borders to define how high or large it is. Nothing exists to measure His strength and might against because nothing compares to the dunamis power of God.

God's Power Is Directed Toward Us

While nothing can stop God's power, there are things that can temper its effects in our lives. Understanding these limitations helps us position ourselves to experience more of God's power.

Wavering Faith

James 1:6-7 warns that the person who doubts "is like a wave of the sea and is driven and tossed by the wind" and "must not suppose that he will receive anything from the Lord."
This isn't God being harsh - it's a description of how doubt creates instability that hinders our ability to receive from Him.
Romans 10:17: "Faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the word of God."
Jesus responded,
"If you can... All things are possible for the one who believes." The father's honest response should encourage us all: "I believe, but help my unbelief" (Mark 9:23-24).

Wrong Motivation

James 4:2-3 reveals another barrier: "You have not because you ask not. You ask and do not receive because you ask wrongly to spend it on your passions."
Some prayers go unanswered not because we don't pray, but because we pray with selfish motivations - seeking things just for our own benefit rather than for God's kingdom.
The remedy is found in Proverbs 16:2:
"All the ways of a man are pure in his own eyes, but the Lord weighs the spirit."
We need to regularly pray dangerous prayers like
Psalm 139:23: "Search me, O God, and know my heart; try me and know my thoughts."

How Should We Approach God's Power?

Stay Under Authority

Jesus said in John 5:19, "The Son can do nothing of his own accord, but only what he sees his Father doing."
If Jesus, the most perfect man who ever lived, operated only under His Father's authority, how much more should we seek to do only what we see our Father doing?
This means we can't just run off and do whatever we want, then ask God to bless it. We need to spend time in His Word, in prayer, and in quiet listening to hear His voice. When we think we've heard from God, we should seek confirmation from trusted believers.

Understand Our Position in Christ

The same power that raised Christ from the dead is available to us. But it gets even better
Ephesians 2:5-6 tells us that God "made us alive together with Christ"
and "seated us with him in the heavenly places in Christ Jesus."
This means that in Christ, we are seated in heavenly places, far above all rule and authority and power and dominion. The authority that Jesus won is now invested in His church. As His body, with Him as our head, we should walk in His authority and anointing today.

What Does This Mean Practically?

God's immeasurable power isn't just for dramatic miracles (though it includes those). His power is seen in how He comforts the hurting, corrects our wrong thinking, and leads us through trials. The gospel addresses our complete being - spirit, soul, and body.

We need to believe that God's power is available for us and through us. When we combine genuine faith with right motivation, God will do things in us and through us that will shock us. There's nothing in Scripture that says His immeasurable power has an expiration date or runs out.

Life Application

This week, examine your prayer life and faith walk. Are you approaching God with wavering faith or with confidence in His immeasurable power? Are your prayers motivated by selfish desires or by a genuine desire to see His kingdom advanced?

Commit to strengthening your faith by spending more time in God's Word. Practice the honest prayer of "Lord, I believe, but help my unbelief" when you find yourself struggling with doubt. Remember that you are seated with Christ in heavenly places - you have access to the same power that raised Him from the dead

Ask yourself these questions:

  • Am I limiting God's power in my life through wavering faith or wrong motivations?
  • Do I truly believe that God's immeasurable power is available to me as His child?
  • How can I better position myself under God's authority while walking in the power He's given me?
  • What would change in my life if I fully embraced my position as seated with Christ in heavenly places?
]]> https://ncctyler.org/blog/2026/03/17/unleashed-fire-in-the-hole#comments 0 Unleashed: Born Rich Chris Bower https://ncctyler.org/blog/2026/03/10/unleashed-born-rich Tue, 10 Mar 2026 11:11:53 +0000 https://ncctyler.org/blog/2026/03/10/unleashed-born-rich

Born Rich: Understanding Your Spiritual Inheritance in Christ

In the late 1800s, Hetty Green was known as the richest woman in America, worth about $7 billion in today's money. Yet despite her incredible wealth, she lived like a pauper - owning only one dress, refusing to heat her home, and eating cold food to save money. The Guinness Book of World Records labeled her the greatest miser that ever lived.
This raises a profound question: How many Christians who are incredibly rich in Christ live like spiritual paupers?

What Does It Mean to Be Born Rich in Christ?

According to Ephesians 1:7, "In him we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of our trespasses according to the riches of his grace." 

The passage continues in verse 8, explaining that God "lavished" these riches upon us - meaning He provides an abundant, full supply without holding back.
We are born rich because we are blessed in Christ with every spiritual blessing. We have access to all of heaven's riches through our adoption into God's family.

The Evidence of Our Spiritual Wealth

Our spiritual riches are evident in several ways:
  • We are chosen in Him
  • We are adopted through Jesus Christ
  • We know the mystery of His will
  • We have obtained an inheritance (verse 11)
  • We are sealed with the Holy Spirit (verse 13)

How Do I Know I'm Saved? The Seal of the Holy Spirit

Being sealed with the Holy Spirit is like having God's signet ring pressed upon us. In ancient times, kings would authenticate documents with their seal. When we are sealed with the Holy Spirit, it's God's authentication of our salvation.

Galatians 4:6 tells us that "God sent the Spirit of His Son into our hearts, crying Abba, Father."

The Holy Spirit confirms our salvation with an inner witness - even if you're the quietest person in the world, the Holy Spirit is shouting "Abba" on the inside.
The devil doesn't question your salvation because he sees that seal on you and recognizes the authority of God's signature through the Holy Spirit.

Why Should We Give Thanks?

Ephesians 1:16-17 emphasizes continuous thanksgiving because we have "the spirit of wisdom and revelation in the knowledge of Him."

While atheists say there is no God to know and agnostics claim God cannot be known, believers have been given the spirit of wisdom and revelation specifically so we can know Him.

Thanksgiving keeps us from taking God for granted. Romans 1:21 warns that although people knew God, "they did not honor him as God or give thanks to him," which led to rebellion and futile thinking.

What Are the Benefits of Being in God's Family?

Psalm 103:1-2 reminds us to "bless the Lord, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits." 

We've been adopted into the family of God, not some struggling family, but the richest family in the universe.

God Forgives All Your Iniquities

The word "iniquity" doesn't just refer to sins we've committed, but to the twisted, perverse nature within us that causes us to bend toward sin in the first place. God deals with the root, not just the fruit.

God Heals All Your Diseases

God is Jehovah Rapha (Yahweh Rapha) - the God who heals spirit, soul, and body. In Exodus 15, after delivering Israel from Egypt and parting the Red Sea, God revealed Himself as their healer when they encountered bitter water at Marah.

Don't Forget What You Already Own

William Randolph Hearst, one of the world's richest men, once sent an agent around the world to find a specific piece of art he desperately wanted to own. After months of searching, the agent reported back: "I found it - it's in a storage building that you own." Hearst had forgotten what he already possessed.
Similarly, we often forget the spiritual riches that already belong to us as children of God. We need to remember our inheritance and live accordingly.

How Can I Experience God's Presence?

Ephesians 1:18 speaks of "having the eyes of your heart enlightened.

This verse inspired the worship song "Open the Eyes of My Heart, Lord" - a prayer for experiencing God in uncommon ways.

Isaiah 6:1 describes seeing "the Lord sitting upon a throne, high and lifted up, and the train of his robe filled the temple."

 When ungodly things in us die (like King Uzziah), we can see the Lord high and lifted up. The angels cried "Holy, holy, holy is the Lord of hosts; the whole earth is full of his glory." If the earth is filled with His glory, shouldn't we be experiencing it?

We Are Part of Each Other's Inheritance

Not only do we have a rich inheritance in God, but we are part of His glorious inheritance. We're also part of each other's inheritance - we need each other because our inheritance is the real, alive, powerful church of Jesus Christ.
This means it's important that you are okay - spirit, soul, and body. Your wellbeing matters to God, to the church, and to those around you.

Life Application

This week, challenge yourself to live like the spiritually rich person you are in Christ. Stop living like a spiritual pauper when you've been adopted into the richest family in the universe. Begin each day by acknowledging your spiritual wealth and thanking God for the riches of His grace that He has lavished upon you.

Ask yourself these questions:

  • Am I living like someone who has been sealed by the Holy Spirit and adopted into God's family?
  • What spiritual riches am I forgetting that I already possess in Christ?
  • How can I cultivate a heart of continuous thanksgiving to stay close to God?
  • Am I experiencing God's presence in uncommon ways, or am I settling for spiritual mediocrity?

Remember, you were born rich in Christ. Don't let the enemy convince you to live beneath your spiritual inheritance.

]]> https://ncctyler.org/blog/2026/03/10/unleashed-born-rich#comments 0 Unleashed: Rooted to Be Released: Transformation That Unleashes God's Power Sam Fisher https://ncctyler.org/blog/2026/03/02/unleashed-rooted-to-be-released-transformation-that-unleashes-god-s-power Mon, 02 Mar 2026 10:51:29 +0000 https://ncctyler.org/blog/2026/03/02/unleashed-rooted-to-be-released-transformation-that-unleashes-god-s-power

Rooted to Be Released: Transformation That Unleashes God's Power

How God Transforms Us Through Relationships

God has a clear plan for our lives: He wants to transform us so that He can unleash His power through us. This transformation doesn't happen in isolation—it happens through our relationships with others and, most importantly, through our relationship with Him.

Who Is Jesus Really?

Before we can understand transformation, we need to see Jesus for who He truly is. Paul reminds us in Colossians that Jesus created all things, holds all things together, and has preeminence over everything. He is the head of the church and the firstborn from the dead. This isn't just theological information—it's the foundation for how we live. When we truly understand who Jesus is, it changes everything about how we approach our relationships and daily life.

How Do We Live This Out in Relationships?

The key to healthy relationships isn't focusing on the other person—it's focusing on God first. When we constantly focus on what's wrong with others, we end up magnifying their flaws and creating distance.

The Pattern for All Relationships

Instead of pursuing each other, God calls us to pursue Him. When we go to God first, He gives us His perspective on our relationships. He reminds us that our spouse is a gift, our children are blessings, and even difficult people are opportunities to demonstrate Christ's love.

What Does This Look Like in Marriage?

Husbands are called to love their wives as Christ loved the church—sacrificially and unconditionally. This isn't dependent on the wife's behavior; it's a command to love as Christ loves. When we approach God about our marriage, He reminds us that our spouse is His gift to us. This changes our perspective from criticism to gratitude, from demands to service.

How Does This Apply to Parenting?

Children are gifts and inheritances from God. We can't parent effectively in our own strength or according to the latest trends. We need God's wisdom because He knows each child uniquely and understands their specific design and purpose. When we go to God for parenting wisdom, He helps us create an atmosphere where our children can grow into everything He intended them to be. Our role is to provide spiritual covering, not control.

What About Difficult People?

Even with people who have hurt us, the principle remains the same. We don't seek revenge or harbor bitterness. Instead, we forgive, bless those who persecute us, and overcome evil with good. This doesn't mean we stay in abusive situations, but it does mean we respond with Christ's character rather than our flesh. We may be the only Jesus some people ever see.

Why Can't We Do This on Our Own?

Jesus made it clear: apart from Him, we can do nothing. We cannot successfully navigate relationships or live the Christian life in our own strength. We need the Holy Spirit working in us and through us. Trusting in ourselves or other people opens the door to curses and failure. But when we trust in the Lord with all our hearts, He makes our paths straight and brings healing and refreshment to our lives.

Life Application

This week, instead of focusing on what others need to change, commit to going to God first about your relationships. Whether it's your spouse, children, coworkers, or that difficult person in your life, ask God to show you His perspective and give you His heart for them. Remember that transformation happens from the inside out. Allow God to work on your heart, attitudes, and responses before trying to change anyone else. 

Questions to ask yourself:

• Am I pursuing God first in my relationships, or am I focused on changing others?

• How can I see the people in my life as gifts from God rather than problems to solve?

• What areas of my relationships need God's perspective and power rather than my own efforts?

• Where am I trusting in my own understanding instead of leaning on God's wisdom?

]]> https://ncctyler.org/blog/2026/03/02/unleashed-rooted-to-be-released-transformation-that-unleashes-god-s-power#comments 0 Unleashed: Finding the Chosen Ones Chris Bower https://ncctyler.org/blog/2026/02/25/unleashed-finding-the-chosen-ones Wed, 25 Feb 2026 11:04:07 +0000 https://ncctyler.org/blog/2026/02/25/unleashed-finding-the-chosen-ones

Finding the Chosen Ones Around Us

In a shocking story from the civil rights era, volunteers discovered sharecroppers in Mississippi living in conditions that amounted to modern slavery. These people were paid not in real currency, but with metal stars that could only be spent at their owner's store. What's even more disturbing is that people knew about this situation and did nothing.
Today, we face a similar reality in our spiritual landscape. Twenty percent of Americans don't know a single Christian. The question we must ask ourselves is: Will we be like those who knew about injustice and remained silent, or will we be like the civil rights workers who risked everything to set people free?

What Does It Mean to Be Blessed in Christ?

Ephesians 1:3 tells us we've been "blessed with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly places." God isn't holding out on us - He's given us everything we need. Among these blessings, we find that we were chosen before the foundation of the world (Ephesians 1:4).

How Could God Choose Us Before We Were Born?

God exists outside of time and sees the beginning from the end. He chose us because He knew the choice we would make. Before we were born, He already knew us and wrote a book about us (Psalm 139). Since He chose us, He has also chosen others - and it's our job to find them.

The Ministry of Reconciliation

One of our greatest spiritual blessings is found in 2 Corinthians 5:17-19. When we become new creations in Christ, God gives us the ministry of reconciliation. This isn't reserved for pastors or missionaries - it's for every believer.

What Does Reconciliation Mean?

The Greek word for reconciliation means "to exchange" - exchanging our old sinful life for His new creation life. It also means to be received into favor. Now that we live in God's favor, we're called to help others experience that same exchange.

Practical Steps to Reach the Chosen Ones

As we approach Easter season, we have a prime opportunity to invite people to church. Statistics show that 86% of people will say yes when invited to church - we just need to ask.

- Pray Before You Say

Prayer must be our foundation. Ask God to put someone on your heart - a coworker, neighbor, or family member. This is a dangerous prayer because God will answer it, and then we must be willing to act.
Jesus saw crowds that were "harassed and helpless like sheep without a shepherd" (Matthew 9:36). The harvest is plentiful, but the laborers are few. We must pray for laborers and then step into the harvest ourselves.

- Be a Friend with No Strings Attached

No one wants to be your project. People need to know they matter even if they never come to church with you. Love people like Jesus would - authentically and unconditionally.
Christians can be weird sometimes. While we should never hide our faith, we also need to have real conversations about life. When difficulties come, people watch how we respond - that's when our witness is strongest.

- Listen More, Talk Less

The best way to show you care is by listening without judging or being offended by their sinfulness. Remember, if they're not born again, they're living in sin - that's their current reality.
Jesus demonstrated this with the woman at the well. He had a real conversation, listened to her, and earned her trust before addressing the deeper issues. When he finally spoke truth, it carried weight because relationship had been established.

- Be Real, Authentic, and Available

Most people who come to Jesus as adults do so because of trauma. God calls us to reach out to those whoare hurting. People aren't looking for church when they're in pain - they're looking for a friend.
People don't care how much you know until they know how much you care. They don't care where you go to church until you demonstrate church to them. You are the church - be the church to people in need.

- Remember It's a Journey, Not a Sprint

Overcoming hurt doesn't happen overnight. It takes days, weeks, months, even years. In light of eternity, the investment is worth it. Be okay with small steps forward and even steps backward, as long as the overall direction is toward Christ.

Life Application

This week, pray the dangerous prayer: "God, put someone on my heart who needs You." When He answers, be willing to step out in faith and build a genuine friendship with that person. Remember, you are a minister of reconciliation, called to find the "whosoevers" that God has chosen.

Ask yourself these questions:

• Who in my life appears "harassed and helpless" and needs to know about God's love?

• Am I willing to invest time in building authentic relationships with non-believers?

• How can I demonstrate the love of Christ through my actions this week, not just my words?

• What's holding me back from sharing my faith - fear of rejection or concern about what others might think?
The harvest is plentiful, and God has equipped you with everything you need to be part of His rescue mission. The question isn't whether there are people who need Jesus - the question is whether you'll be available to help them find Him.
]]> https://ncctyler.org/blog/2026/02/25/unleashed-finding-the-chosen-ones#comments 0 How Godly Relationships Transform Our Lives Chris Bower https://ncctyler.org/blog/2026/02/20/how-godly-relationships-transform-our-lives Fri, 20 Feb 2026 21:12:03 +0000 https://ncctyler.org/blog/2026/02/20/how-godly-relationships-transform-our-lives

How Godly Relationships Transform Our Lives

We all have relationships that influence us in different ways. But not all relationships are created equal. The key to experiencing real transformation in our lives lies in pursuing godly relationships - those that draw us closer to Christ and help us become more like Him.

Why Relationships Matter for Spiritual Growth

Proverbs 18:24 reminds us that
"A man of many companions may come to ruin, but there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother." It's not about having a crowd of people around you to make you feel better about yourself. It's about who you have around you that truly matters.
Think about your marriage. Wouldn't it be a shame to be married for years and have that relationship not change you for the better?
Song of Solomon 5:16 describes the ideal relationship: "this is my beloved and this is my friend." Can you say that about your spouse?
The same principle applies to friendships. A friendship without honesty isn't a real friendship. We need friends who will call us out when we're wrong.
Proverbs 27:6 says, "Faithful are the wounds of a friend." We need people in our lives who love us enough to tell us when we're being foolish.

What Does God Want from Our Relationships?

Romans 8:28-29 reveals God's ultimate purpose for our lives. While many people quote verse 28 as comfort during difficult times, the real emphasis is on verse 29: "For those whom he foreknew, he also predestined to be conformed to the image of his son."

God's purpose is to have such a deep relationship with you that you are transformed to resemble Jesus. This transformation should be evident in all our relationships - with our spouse, friends, and most importantly, with Christ Himself.

How to Pursue Transformative Relationships

Pursue Love

Love is more than a feeling - it's an act of the will that requires discipline. In marriage, this means thinking about your spouse first, even when it goes against your natural inclinations. It took years to learn to love beyond self-interest, but that's what real love requires.

Proverbs 18:22 says, "He who finds a wife finds a good thing and obtains favor from the Lord." This favor comes through learning to put someone else's needs before your own.
Don't try to correct someone unless you're pursuing love. You may be right about the issue but completely wrong in your approach. Love must be the foundation of any correction or guidance we offer others.

Pursue Commitment

Relationships require commitment, especially when things get difficult. In marriage, this means sticking together through thick and thin, better or worse, till death do us part. With friends, it means continuing to pour into them even when they can't reciprocate.

Luke 6:38 teaches us a spiritual principle:
"Give and it will be given to you."

This isn't just about money - it's about mercy, goodness, friendship, and commitment. You want friendship? Give friendship. You want commitment? Give commitment
.
The story of Jonathan and David in 1 Samuel 18:1 shows us covenant commitment. Jonathan had everything, David had nothing, yet Jonathan gave sacrificially. He even gave David the cloak and armor of the kingdom, symbolizing his willingness to put David's calling above his own position.

Pursue Consistency

Consistency isn't boring - it's security. When we consistently pursue our spouse, they never have to worry about our faithfulness. When we consistently show up for our friends, they know they can count on us.

Proverbs 17:17 tells us, "A friend loves at all times and a brother is born for adversity."
 
True friends are there consistently, not just when it's convenient.
In our relationship with God, consistency means regularly talking to Him, reading His Word, and showing His love to others. It means being someone others can count on because they see Christ's character consistently displayed in our lives.

The Connection Between Relationships and Church Life

These same principles apply to our relationship with the church. Love, commitment, and consistency should characterize how we engage with our church family. This means:

  • Praying consistently for the church and its mission
  • Attending regularly out of love and commitment
  • Serving faithfully in whatever capacity God calls us
  • Giving generously and consistently

Life Application

This week, evaluate your most important relationships through the lens of love, commitment, and consistency. Choose one relationship where you can grow in one of these areas.

If you're married, ask yourself: Am I pursuing my spouse with the same intentionality I did when we were dating? If you have close friends, consider: Am I the kind of friend who loves at all times, even when it's difficult?

Most importantly, examine your relationship with Christ. Are you pursuing Him with love, commitment, and consistency, or is He just a "get out of hell free card" to you?

Ask yourself these questions:

  • Which of my relationships need more intentional pursuit of love, commitment, or consistency?
  • Am I the kind of friend who speaks truth in love when necessary?
  • How is my relationship with Christ transforming my other relationships?
  • What specific step can I take this week to strengthen one important relationship in my life?

Remember, godly relationships require intentional effort, but they produce transformation that makes us more like Christ. The investment is worth it because these relationships shape who we become.

]]> https://ncctyler.org/blog/2026/02/20/how-godly-relationships-transform-our-lives#comments 0 A Philippians Church Jayson Caceres https://ncctyler.org/blog/2026/02/09/a-philippians-church Mon, 09 Feb 2026 09:59:10 +0000 https://ncctyler.org/blog/2026/02/09/a-philippians-church

Following the Philippian Church Example: How to Build a Thriving Christian Community

What would happen if a church search committee received a resume from someone who had been in jail multiple times, caused riots, couldn't get along with other religious leaders, and never stayed at one church for more than three years? Most committees would immediately reject such a candidate. Yet this describes the apostle Paul - the man who wrote two-thirds of the New Testament and established some of the most vibrant churches in Christian history.

Why the Book of Philippians Stands Out

Among all of Paul's letters, Philippians holds a special place. Many consider it the most beautiful letter Paul ever wrote, and it's unlike any of his other correspondence. This letter radiates joy and fellowship in a way that makes readers want to underline every verse.
The letter to the Philippians focuses on joy - specifically, the triumphant, true joy that comes only through a dynamic personal relationship with Jesus Christ. It teaches us that we can have joy even in the midst of trials, but only when we're intimately connected with Christ through His Word and prayer.

What Made the Philippian Church Special?

The Philippian church was Paul's "sigh of relief" congregation. When he wrote to them, he didn't have to address major sins or conflicts. Instead, he could express pure joy and affection. He called them "my joy and my crown" and held them close to his heart.
This church was founded during Paul's second missionary journey and holds the distinction of being the first church established on the European continent. By the time Paul wrote his letter to them, eleven years had passed since the church's founding, yet they remained faithful and supportive.

How Can We Develop Good Spiritual Habits?

We are all creatures of habit - some good, some bad. Our habits form the infrastructure of our life patterns. When we change our habits, our patterns change. When we leave bad habits untouched, negative patterns persist.
As Christians, we need to develop the good habits of those who have gone before us. Paul himself encouraged this, saying "Brothers, join in imitating me and keep your eyes on those who walk according to the example you have in us" (Philippians 3:17).
This is why discipleship matters so much. Discipleship involves discipline, instruction, training, and self-control to become like our Master. It's about walking alongside mature believers and learning their godly patterns.

Four Characteristics of a Philippian-Style Church

1. Committed to the Cause


The Philippian church demonstrated partnership in the gospel "from the first day until now" (Philippians 1:5). They were all-hands-on-deck people who jumped in without hesitation when they saw a need.
Being committed means being present, not just watching from the sidelines. It means being bought into God's call for your church community and providing support wherever needed.

2. Generous Without Question

The Philippians gave both financially and materially to support Paul's ministry. They saw needs and fulfilled them without questioning or hesitation. Their generosity extended beyond just giving to leadership - they cared for the least and forgotten among them.
True generosity often requires sacrifice. It involves giving not just our money, but our time and energy to serve others in the body of Christ.

3. Committed to Specific, Authoritative Prayer

Paul acknowledged that his deliverance was connected to the prayers of the Philippians (Philippians 1:19). They believed their prayers would change situations, and they prayed with authority and expectation.
Do you believe your prayers can change your circumstances? Do you pray with the expectation that God will move in response to your faithful intercession?

4. Active in Service

Paul told the Philippians that no other church had entered into partnership with him in giving and receiving except them alone (Philippians 4:15). They were unique in their commitment to serve and support the work of the gospel.
Service means looking for opportunities to contribute beyond what you're already doing. It means asking, "Where else can I serve? Where else is help needed?"

The Importance of Solid Leadership

The Philippian church couldn't have maintained their excellence without solid leadership. While Paul founded the church, local leaders maintained it for eleven years before he wrote his letter. The fact that he had nothing but praise for them speaks volumes about their leadership quality.
Paul also sent Timothy and Epaphroditus to help them - leaders he described as faithful workers and fellow soldiers. He wanted to give them the best leadership possible because he loved them so much.

Life Application

Every church can become a "Philippian church" - a community that others look to as an example of what God can do through committed believers. Size doesn't matter; faithfulness does. God doesn't need a congregation of thousands to accomplish His purposes powerfully.
This week, challenge yourself to adopt one characteristic of the Philippian church. Whether it's becoming more committed to the cause, giving more generously, praying more specifically, or serving more actively, choose one area to focus on and take concrete steps toward growth.

Ask yourself these questions:

  • Am I truly bought into God's vision for my church, or am I just attending?
  • Do I give generously of my time, talents, and resources without questioning?
  • Do I pray specifically and with authority for my church and its leadership?
  • Where can I serve more actively in my church community?
  • How can I better support and encourage my church leadership?

]]> https://ncctyler.org/blog/2026/02/09/a-philippians-church#comments 0 Jesus is Lord: Understanding Your Purpose in the Workplace Sam Fisher https://ncctyler.org/blog/2026/02/04/jesus-is-lord-understanding-your-purpose-in-the-workplace Wed, 04 Feb 2026 17:36:33 +0000 https://ncctyler.org/blog/2026/02/04/jesus-is-lord-understanding-your-purpose-in-the-workplace

Jesus is Lord: Understanding Your Purpose in the Workplace

Have you ever wondered why you spend so much time at work? Or questioned whether your daily job has any spiritual significance? The truth is, your workplace isn't separate from your faith journey—it's actually one of the primary places where God wants to work through you.

What Does It Mean That Jesus is Lord?

The foundation of understanding our purpose begins with recognizing that Jesus is Lord. This isn't just a nice religious phrase—it's a life-changing reality. Romans 10 tells us that if we confess with our mouth "Jesus is Lord" and believe in our heart that God raised Him from the dead, we will be saved. Many people want Jesus as Savior, but you don't get Jesus as Savior without Jesus being Lord of your life. The word "Lord" in the New Testament equates to "Yahweh" in the Old Testament—the high name of God that acknowledges He is everything, over everything, all-powerful, and fully in control.

Understanding Lordship in Daily Life

The Greek word for Lord is "kyrios," which means "he to whom a person or thing belongs." It refers to the one who has the power of decision over our lives—not just the broad picture, but the individual details. He's the master, the one who has control, the owner. This means Jesus has authority over every aspect of your life, including your work. When we truly understand His lordship, it changes how we view our daily responsibilities and interactions.

Who Are We and What's Our Purpose?

Ephesians 2:10 reveals something incredible about our identity: "We are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand that we should walk in them." We are God's workmanship—uniquely created with His handprints all over our lives. We are His sons and daughters, kings, priests, ambassadors, and saints. But notice the purpose: we were created for good works that God prepared in advance for us to do

The Greek Understanding of Work

The word "works" in Greek is "ergon," which means work, labor, business, employment, enterprise, or undertaking. It encompasses any product accomplished by our hands, any act or deed we do. This reveals an astonishing truth: we are people created to work.

Is Work Really a Good Thing?

Since the fall of man, work has taken on negative connotations. Many people see work as something they have to do and hate to do. But this isn't how God sees work—He has an entirely different perspective.

God's View of Work

God says work is good. Consider this: God worked in creation, and Scripture tells us He works even today on our behalf. Jesus had a trade as a carpenter. Paul made tents. Work isn't part of the curse—it's part of the blessing. God appointed man to work before the fall, before original sin. One of the first things God did after creating man was give him a job: "Go and tend the garden."

What Purpose Does Work Serve?

Work serves multiple important purposes in our lives:
• Provides for our needs and our families
• Serves the community through resources and services
• Creates products that reflect God's goodness
• Enables us to practice generosity by having enough to share with others

How Does Work Help Us Grow as Disciples?

Your workplace is one of the main areas where you grow as a disciple. You spend 30, 40, 50, or more hours per week there, interacting with people and facing challenges that develop your character.

Opportunities for Spiritual Growth at Work

At work, you have opportunities to grow in grace, practice forgiveness, demonstrate repentance, and show the character of Christ in real, tangible ways. You can model integrity, demonstrate a peaceful spirit, show hope, and express love. When everyone around you is losing their minds over small issues, you can abide in peace because you have trust and confidence in the lordship of Jesus Christ. You know He really does rule and is in charge of everything.

Are You the Only Jesus Some People Will See?

In some workplaces, you may be the only Jesus that your coworkers ever encounter. You are God's plan A in that circumstance and setting. You get to be salt and light in a world that desperately needs both. Matthew 5 says, "Let your light shine before others so they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven." When you manifest the character of Christ in your workplace, you become part of God's redemptive process.

Planting Seeds of Salvation

God may have placed you in difficult situations so you can help plant seeds of salvation in the lives of every person you meet. You might be sowing seeds everywhere, never knowing who will come along to water them and watch God give the increase.

Are You in Full-Time Ministry?

Here's a surprise: whether you wanted it or not, you are a minister of the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Second Corinthians 5:18 says we've all been given the ministry of reconciliation. You are a full-time minister, regardless of your occupation. We are ministers of reconciliation and ambassadors for Christ. Everywhere you are is where Jesus wants to be and show His presence.

Working for the Lord

Colossians 3:23 provides clear direction: "Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men, knowing that from the Lord you receive the inheritance as your reward. You are serving the Lord Christ." When you show up at your job, no matter where you work, you are working for Jesus Christ. Your specific workplace is where God has positioned you for this season to work something in your life and through your life for your benefit and the benefit of those you interact with.

Real-Life Examples of Workplace Ministry

Consider these inspiring examples of people who understood their workplace calling: One businessman in the oil and gas industry continues working not because he needs the money, but because "work is where I find my next assignment." Over the years, God has brought young men into his workplace who were struggling with their identity, and he's been able to mentor and disciple them. A preschool director realized her job wasn't just about checking boxes and wiping noses—she had the opportunity to influence children's lives, encourage struggling employees, and pour hope into single mothers and parents going through difficulties. A nurse practitioner sees her medical practice as her ministry, loving the opportunity to encourage people, help those receiving bad reports, and pour hope into their lives.

Life Application

This week, challenge yourself to see your workplace through God's eyes. Recognize that you are exactly where God wants you to be for this season. Look for opportunities to demonstrate the character of Christ through integrity, peace, hope, and love. Remember that you may be the only Jesus some of your coworkers will ever see.
 
Ask yourself these questions:
• How can I better demonstrate the lordship of Jesus Christ in my daily work?
 • What opportunities do I have this week to show grace, forgiveness, or encouragement to my coworkers?
• Am I viewing my work as ministry, or just as something I have to do?
• How can I be salt and light in my specific workplace environment?

Your workplace isn't separate from your spiritual life—it's one of the primary places where God wants to work through you to touch others' lives and grow your own character.
Embrace your role as a full-time minister in whatever field God has placed you.
]]> https://ncctyler.org/blog/2026/02/04/jesus-is-lord-understanding-your-purpose-in-the-workplace#comments 0 Hear the word DO the word Chris Bower https://ncctyler.org/blog/2026/01/24/hear-the-word-do-the-word Sat, 24 Jan 2026 13:44:54 +0000 https://ncctyler.org/blog/2026/01/24/hear-the-word-do-the-word

Hear the word Do the word

Charles Haddon Spurgeon, the famous 19th-century preacher, once said: "I would recommend you either believe God up to the hilt or else not believe at all. Believe this book of God, every letter of it, or else reject it." This powerful statement challenges us to examine how deeply we're engaging with Scripture and whether God's Word is truly transforming our lives.

Why God's Word Doesn't Always Seem to Affect Our Lives

Many believers struggle with feeling like Scripture isn't making a real difference in their daily experience. The Bible is clear about its power and purpose - it's firmly fixed in heaven (Psalm 119:89), it sanctifies us in truth (John 17:17), and it accomplishes God's purposes (Isaiah 55:11). So why does it sometimes feel ineffective?

The Problem: We're Hearers Only, Not Doers

James 1:22 reveals the issue: "Be a doer of the Word, not hearers only, deceiving yourselves." Reading or hearing Scripture isn't enough - we must engage with it and put it into practice. It's like trying to lose weight by exercising but never changing your eating habits. Both elements must work together for transformation to occur.

What Does God's Word Say About Who We Are?

Before we can properly apply Scripture, we need to understand what it declares about our identity as believers:

We Are Not Alone

First John 4:4 reminds us: "Greater is he who is in you than he who is in the world." We are overcomers because Christ overcame and now dwells within us through the Holy Spirit. This isn't just encouraging language - it's a spiritual reality we can live from.

We Are New Creations

Second Corinthians 5:17 declares: "If anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come." When we feel like our old selves or are tempted by past patterns, we must remind ourselves of this truth and live from our new identity.

We Have Sound Minds

Second Timothy 1:7 states: "God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and love and self-control." Instead of living in fear about what might happen, we should thank God for what He has given us and declared about us.

How to Handle Sin and Condemnation

When We Mess Up

First John 1:9 provides the solution: "If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness." We don't run from God when we fail - we run to Him, knowing He will both forgive and cleanse us.

Dealing with Condemnation

Romans 8:1 declares: "There is therefore now no condemnation to those who are in Christ Jesus." If you're feeling condemned, it's not from God. Even when our hearts condemn us, God is greater than our hearts. This doesn't mean we take sin lightly, but we don't live under the weight of past failures.

How to Engage More Deeply with Scripture

Make It Personal

When reading Scripture, personalize the promises. Instead of reading "there is no condemnation for those in Christ," read it as "there is no condemnation for me because I'm in Christ Jesus."

Ask the Holy Spirit for Help

Before reading, pray and worship. Ask the Holy Spirit to make the Word real to you. Thank God that His Word is alive and sharper than a two-edged sword (Hebrews 4:12), able to discern thoughts and intentions.

Don't Just Read - Agree and Apply

Find ways to apply what you read to your life. Be a doer of the Word, not just a hearer.

The Four Types of Soil: Where Are You?

Jesus' parable of the sower in Matthew 13 reveals four different ways people receive God's Word. The seed (God's Word) and the sower (the Holy Spirit) remain the same - the difference is the soil (our hearts).

The Hard Path

This represents hearts that hear the Word but don't understand or act on it. The enemy steals what was sown because there's no room for it to take root. These hearts may be hardened by hurt, betrayal, or patterns of sin.

The Rocky Ground

This soil receives the Word with immediate joy but has no depth. When testing comes, these believers fall away because they're living on emotion rather than deep revelation. They may be trying to live off someone else's faith instead of developing their own relationship with God.

The Thorny Ground

Here, the Word is choked by the cares of this world and the deceitfulness of riches. These believers are too busy chasing the American dream to give the Word room to grow. They become takers rather than givers, focused on building their own kingdom instead of God's.

The Good Soil

This represents hearts that hear, understand, and act on the Word. The Greek word for "understand" means to hear, comprehend, and act upon. These believers bear fruit - some thirty, some sixty, some a hundredfold.

Moving from Hard Soil to Good Soil

The key difference between fruitful and unfruitful believers isn't the Word they receive - it's the condition of their hearts. Are we willing to hear and obey? Are we ready to forgive, deal with hurt, and make room for God's Word to grow?

Getting Help When You Need It

If you're struggling with hard soil due to hurt or betrayal, if you lack spiritual roots, or if you're caught up in a hectic life with no room for growth, help is available. Spiritual growth requires community - it's not something we can accomplish alone through Sunday morning services.

Life Application

his week, honestly assess what type of soil your heart represents. Are you living as hard ground, resistant to areas where God wants to work? Are you in rocky soil, living on emotions rather than deep revelation? Are you among the thorns, too busy to give God's Word room to grow? Or are you good soil, hearing, understanding, and acting on what God says?

Choose one area where you know God has been speaking to you but you've been resistant. This week, soften your heart in that area and take one concrete step of obedience. Remember, transformation comes not just from hearing God's Word, but from doing it.

Ask yourself these questions:

  • What areas of my life am I keeping hard toward God's Word?
  • Am I living off my emotions or someone else's faith instead of developing deep roots in God?
  • What "thorns" in my life are choking out the Word's effectiveness?
  • How can I move from being a hearer only to being a doer of God's Word this week?
]]> How God's Word Changes Us: The Power of Scripture in Daily Life Chris Bower https://ncctyler.org/blog/2026/01/10/how-god-s-word-changes-us-the-power-of-scripture-in-daily-life Sat, 10 Jan 2026 16:36:53 +0000 https://ncctyler.org/blog/2026/01/10/how-god-s-word-changes-us-the-power-of-scripture-in-daily-life
The Bible isn't just an ancient book sitting on our shelves—it's a living, breathing source of transformation that continues to speak into our lives today. English theologian Joseph Parker once wrote that "when the last word has been said about the Bible, it will no longer be the word of God." In other words, we'll never reach a place where Scripture doesn't have something new to say to us.

Why Should We Value God's Word?

In our modern world, we have unprecedented access to Scripture. We carry it on our phones, have multiple copies in our homes, and can access it instantly. Yet do we truly honor and cherish it the way we should?

Consider the underground Christians in countries where owning a Bible is illegal. When they receive copies of Scripture, they don't casually flip through pages. They hold it with tears in their eyes, knowing they're holding the very words of God. Some underground churches have had to tear apart their single Bible copy, distributing individual pages among hundreds of members who would read, memorize, and pass along their precious portion.

Do We Have That Same Desperation?

Psalm 119:16 declares, "I will delight in your statutes; I will not forget your word." This longest chapter in the Bible—176 verses—is almost entirely devoted to loving and honoring God's Word. The question we must ask ourselves is: Do we find our highest pleasure in Scripture?

What Does It Mean to Read Scripture Like a King?

Deuteronomy 17:18-20 gives us a fascinating glimpse into God's instructions for future kings of Israel. When a king would take the throne, his first responsibility was to write out his own copy of God's law and keep it with him, reading it all the days of his life.

While we may not be earthly kings, 1 Peter 2:9 reminds us that we are "a royal priesthood"—part of God's royal family. This means the same principles apply to us.

The First Step: Simply Read It

If we want to develop a delight in God's Word, we must start with the obvious: read it. Spiritual hunger works differently than physical hunger. You don't have to do anything to get physically hungry—your stomach will remind you. But spiritual hunger must be cultivated. The more you feast on God's Word, the hungrier you become for it.

Don't Just Read—Meditate

Christian meditation differs completely from Eastern meditation. While Eastern practices encourage emptying your mind, Christian meditation calls us to fill our minds with God's truth. The Hebrew word for meditate means "to bring forth and allow to germinate" or "to talk with yourself on divine things."

Think of it like a cow chewing its cud—taking in God's Word, processing it, then bringing it back up later to chew on it some more. When you're reading Scripture, be sensitive to the Holy Spirit. He might highlight a verse, a phrase, or even just a couple of words. Stop there and think about it throughout your day.

What Happens When We Consistently Read God's Word?

Hebrews 4:12 tells us that "the Word of God is living and active, sharper than any two-edged sword." Even though we're looking at words printed on a page, spiritually, Scripture is alive. It knows exactly what our spirit needs and what our soul needs, ministering to both areas of our lives.

The Word Brings Revelation

You might read a passage you've seen dozens of times before, but suddenly the Holy Spirit illuminates something new. Sometimes the revelation hits so powerfully that our finite minds struggle to process what our spirits are receiving from the infinite God.

There are truths we won't understand until we go through certain experiences. Like the ring in Lord of the Rings that only revealed its writing after going through fire, some Scriptures only come alive when we face trials that refine us.

How Does Scripture Teach Us to Fear the Lord?

One of the primary benefits of consistently reading God's Word is that it teaches us to fear the Lord. This isn't worldly fear or terror—it's a reverent awe and honor for who God truly is.

We love Jesus the Lamb who died for our sins, and rightly so. But we cannot forget that He's also the Lion. Just as a king's children might call him "Daddy" at home but bow when he enters the throne room in his royal robes, we must learn to discern when God is being our loving Father and when He's demonstrating His awesome holiness.

The Benefits of Fearing the Lord

According to Proverbs, the fear of the Lord:

Is the beginning of wisdom
Is the hatred of evil
Is the beginning of knowledge
Prolongs life
Is a fountain of life
Turns us away from evil


What Are the Results of Living by God's Word?

Deuteronomy 17:20 outlines three key benefits of living according to God's Word:

Purification
God's Word keeps our hearts from being "lifted up"—it protects us from pride and keeps us humble before God and others.

Dedication
Scripture helps us not "turn aside from the commandment either to the right hand or to the left." It keeps us on the straight path of obedience—not legalistic rule-following, but heartfelt dedication to God's ways.

Multiplication
The passage promises that both the king "and his children" would benefit. God is a generational God, always working for the future. When we honor His Word, it affects not just us but our children and grandchildren.

Why Does This Matter for Families?

Parents, your relationship with God's Word will impact your children. You will make mistakes in parenting—that's guaranteed. But in the midst of your imperfections, your children can still see God if you're a person of the Word.

The goal isn't perfection; it's authenticity. When your children see you consistently turning to Scripture, learning from it, and allowing it to change you, they're learning what it means to walk with God.

Life Application

This week, commit to reading God's Word daily—not as a religious duty, but as someone desperate for what only Scripture can provide. Whether you join the January reading challenge or start your own plan, approach the Bible with the same reverence as those underground Christians who treasure every word.

Don't just read for information; read for transformation. When the Holy Spirit highlights something, stop and meditate on it. Carry those words with you throughout your day, chewing on them like a cow with its cud.

Ask yourself these questions:

Do I truly cherish God's Word, or do I take it for granted?
Am I reading Scripture with expectation that God will speak to me?
How is my relationship with God's Word affecting my family and those around me?
What would change in my life if I approached the Bible with desperate hunger rather than casual interest?


Remember, God's Word has the power to purify your heart, strengthen your dedication to Him, and create a legacy that impacts generations. The question isn't whether Scripture can change you—it's whether you'll give it the opportunity to do so.
]]> https://ncctyler.org/blog/2026/01/10/how-god-s-word-changes-us-the-power-of-scripture-in-daily-life#comments 0