Jesus’ parable about an exorcised demon’s furious return to an empty house warns about the danger of void. The void needs to be filled!

“Through wisdom a house is built, And by understanding it is established; By knowledge the rooms are filled With all precious and pleasant riches.” (Proverbs 24:3-4) Society has sought to redefine the happy home. Scripture shows us the truth.

“And do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, by whom you were sealed for the day of redemption.” (Ephesians 4:30) How could we possibly grieve God? What does Paul mean?

Paul encouraged the Corinthians by telling them of God’s activity in his trials – “[God] delivered us from so great a death, and does deliver us; in whom we trust that He will still deliver us” (2 Corinthians 1:10). The verb tenses Paul used are powerful, and provide us confidence.

“And those who had laid hold of Jesus led Him away…But Peter followed Him at a distance” (Matthew 26:57-58). Peter following the Lord at a distance becomes a metaphor for how some follow Him today. Am I following Jesus at a distance?

“In this manner, therefore, pray: Our Father in heaven, hallowed be Your name. Your kingdom come. Your will be done on earth as it is in heaven.” (Matthew 6:9-10) Our prayer should be for the heavenly to be reflected on earth, and this comes with personal responsibility.

The world tells us that “getting” and “receiving” leads to the greatest happiness and fulfillment. Jesus taught something different – “And remember the words of the Lord Jesus, that He said, ‘It is more blessed to give than to receive.’” (Acts 20:35) What is the blessedness of giving?

Paul wanted the Ephesians to know “what is the exceeding greatness of His power toward us who believe” (Ephesians 1:19). This power that raised Christ from the dead is at work in believers to their salvation, and God’s glory.

The church in Laodicea received no praise from the Son of Man (Revelation 3:14-22). They were lukewarm, and their self-perception was completely opposite of reality. Yet, Christ stood at the door and knocked, wanting to dine with them!

The church in Philadelphia received no protest from the Lord. This faithful group of Christians provide a blueprint for faithfulness as a church despite “little strength” (Revelation 3:8).