Crews N Away: Anchored in Grace Blog

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GIVES LIGHT TO EVERY MAN / JOHN 1:9

START YOUR DAY RIGHT DAILY DEVOTION

(KJV) John 1:9

That was the true Light, which lighteth every man that cometh into the world.

The Light That Awakens the Soul: Understanding John 1:9

In a world filled with shifting shadows, mixed messages, and competing philosophies, finding absolute truth can feel like chasing the wind. We search for meaning in success, relationships, and self-improvement, yet a deeper spiritual longing often remains. The Gospel of John addresses this universal human condition with a profound declaration in John 1:9: “The true light that gives light to everyone was coming into the world.”

This single verse captures the essence of who Jesus Christ is and what He came to do. He is not merely a historical figure or a wise teacher; He is the True Light.

Revealing the Heart of the Father

Apart from Christ, our understanding of God is incomplete. Jesus came to pull back the curtain and reveal exactly who God is. In His actions, His compassion, and His ultimate sacrifice, we see the perfect reflection of the Father’s heart. He shows us a God who is holy, yet deeply loving; just, yet overflowing with mercy.

But Christ did not just come to show us the way to God from a distance—He Himself became the bridge. Through His life, death, and resurrection, He provided the sole means for us to enter into a genuine, personal relationship with the Creator of the universe. As Jesus later declares in John 14:6, He is the way, the truth, and the life, and no one comes to the Father except through Him. Apart from this light, there is no other source by which we can see ultimate truth and be spiritually saved.

The Gift of Divine Understanding

One of the most beautiful aspects of Christ’s light is how it meets us right where we are. The message of the gospel—forgiveness of sins and the offer of a vibrant, new life—is not reserved for the intellectually elite. Christ makes His truth understandable to our human minds.

He does this by extending an abundance of grace. This grace is undeserved favor, but it is also a supernatural, spiritual ability. Along with grace, He imparts insight. He opens our eyes to see our need for Him and clears the fog of confusion so we can comprehend the beauty of His message.

A Freedom of Choice

With this divine illumination comes a profound responsibility. The light of Christ does not force its way into our hearts; instead, it empowers us. Because He grants us understanding and insight, we are enabled to make a genuine, free choice.

We are faced with a pivotal decision: to freely accept His message of grace or to reject it. The light makes the path clear, but the choice to walk in it belongs to each individual.

If you have been wandering in spiritual darkness, wondering if God is real or if He cares, know that His light is shining upon you today. He is offering you the insight to understand His love and the grace to respond to it.

A Closing Prayer

Heavenly Father, thank You for sending Your Son, Jesus Christ, as the True Light into our world. Thank You for revealing Your heart to us and making a way for us to have a personal relationship with You. We confess that apart from Your light, we are lost in the dark.

We thank You for the incredible grace and spiritual insight You give us to understand Your message of forgiveness and new life. Holy Spirit, clear away any remaining doubt or confusion in our minds. Help us to daily choose to accept Your truth, to walk in Your light, and to share that light with a world in need. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Affiliate Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through these links, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Bible Study Tools I Use

Some of our Post That Might Interest You, All Out of the Current Book / Chapter

  1. HIS NAME WAS JOHN / JOHN 1:6
  2. LIGHT SHINES IN THE DARKNESS / JOHN 1:5
  3. LIFE WAS THE LIGHT OF MEN / JOHN 1:4
  4. WITH GOD IN THE BEGINNING / JOHN 1:2
  5. THE WORD / JOHN 1:1
  6. CREWS N AWAY: ANCHORED IN GRACE

Thanks for stopping by the blog today! I love having you here. If this post resonated with you, please drop a comment below and share your thoughts. See you in the next post!

Blessings, Margarita & Stace

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HIS NAME WAS JOHN / JOHN 1:6

START YOUR DAY RIGHT DAILY DEVOTION

(KJV) John 1:6

There was a man sent from God, whose name was John.

His Name Was John: Finding Our Purpose in the Reflection of the Light

The Opening verses of the Gospel of John are filled with cosmic, breathtaking language. We read about the Word that existed before time, the Word that was with God, and the Word that was God. We read about a magnificent Light shining in the pitch-black darkness—a Light the darkness could never hope to conquer.

Then, suddenly, the poetic rhythm shifts. The cosmic scale narrows down to a single, historic human life.

“There was a man sent from God, whose name was John.”

— John 1:6

The abrupt introduction is a beautiful reminder of how God works. He spans eternity, yet He intentionally steps into human history to use ordinary individuals for His extraordinary plans.

A Man Sent From God

John the Baptist did not choose his own mission, nor did he preach to bring fame to his own name. He was specifically commissioned by the Creator. The name John itself means “God is gracious,” and his very existence was a living testament to the grace God was about to pour out on humanity.

He wasn’t the main event. He was the voice crying out in the wilderness, the one pointing everyone away from himself and toward the true Messiah.

Deflecting the Glory

The Gospel writer makes a very clear distinction just two verses later: “He himself was not the light, but he came to testify to the light” (John 1:8).

In a world that constantly tells us to build our own platforms, chase our own spotlights, and make names for ourselves, John’s life offers a refreshing and challenging paradigm. When religious leaders came to interview him, asking if he was the Messiah or a reincarnated prophet, he simply replied, “I am not.”

John knew exactly who he was because he knew exactly who he wasn’t. He was content being a signpost. He knew that true fulfillment doesn’t come from being the center of attention, but from directing attention to Jesus Christ.

Becoming a Witness Today

You and I might not be wearing camel’s hair or eating wild locusts in the desert, but as believers, we share the exact same calling as John.

We are not the Light. We cannot fix a broken world on our own strength, nor can we save anyone from their sins. But we can bear witness to the One who can. We can let our lives reflect His love, His truth, and His grace so clearly that when people look at us, they ultimately see Him.

Your story matters because it points to His story. Like John, you are sent into your specific workplace, your family, and your community to tell a dark world that the True Light has arrived.

Closing Prayer

Heavenly Father,

Thank You for the beautiful reminder through the life of John that You use ordinary people to accomplish Your divine purposes. Forgive us for the times we try to chase our own spotlights or live as if life centers around us.

We ask that You give us the humility of John. Help us to freely step back so that Jesus may take center stage in everything we do. Keep our eyes fixed firmly on the True Light, and empower us by Your Holy Spirit to be bold, faithful witnesses to Your grace this week. May our words and our actions always point others to the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world.

In Jesus’ name we pray, Amen.

Affiliate Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through these links, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Bible Study Tools I Use

Some of our Post That Might Interest You, All Out of the Current Book / Chapter

  1. LIGHT SHINES IN THE DARKNESS / JOHN 1:5
  2. LIFE WAS THE LIGHT OF MEN / JOHN 1:4
  3. WITH GOD IN THE BEGINNING / JOHN 1:2
  4. THE WORD / JOHN 1:1
  5. CREWS N AWAY: ANCHORED IN GRACE

Thanks for stopping by the blog today! I love having you here. If this post resonated with you, please drop a comment below and share your thoughts. See you in the next post!

Blessings, Margarita & Stace

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LIGHT SHINES IN THE DARKNESS / JOHN 1:5

START YOUR DAY RIGHT DAILY DEVOTION

(KJV) John 1:5

And the light shineth in darkness; and the darkness comprehended it not.

Light Shines in the Darkness: Embracing the Overcoming Light of John 1:5

We live in a world that often feels overwhelmed by shadows. From personal struggles and systemic injustices to a culture that frequently chooses rebellion and opposition over truth, the darkness can seem absolute. Yet, the Gospel of John opens with a profound, unshakeable promise that changes how we view reality.

“The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.” — John 1:5

Throughout his writing, John focuses heavily on this stark contrast between light and darkness. To understand the depth of this verse, we have to look closely at what these two forces represent and why the light ultimately wins.

The Reality of the Darkness

John doesn’t minimize the reality of the darkness around us. The “darkness” refers to a spiritual condition—an evil and sinful world going its own way in rebellion against God, a realm currently under the deceptive control of Satan.

Human nature, in its fallen state, is naturally drawn toward this spiritual darkness. Light exposes things. It uncovers hidden motives, secret sins, and our desperate need for a Savior. Because of this, the majority of the world rejects the light of Christ because they prefer to remain hidden in the comfortable shadows of their own ways.

The Word That Means Two Things

The beauty of John 1:5 lies in the original Greek word used for “overcome” (katalambano). This word has a dual meaning, and both tell us something incredible about Jesus:

  1. The Darkness Cannot Comprehend It: In many translations, the text says the darkness has not “understood” or “comprehended” the light. Spiritual darkness is completely blind to divine truth. It cannot grasp, categorize, or diminish the glory of Christ.
  2. The Darkness Cannot Conquer It: The word also means to seize, overtake, or overpower. This is the ultimate victory of the Gospel. No matter how dense, hostile, or aggressive the darkness of this world gets, it cannot put out the light of Jesus Christ.

Think of a pitch-black room. The moment you strike a single match, the darkness is immediately forced to retreat. Darkness has no active power of its own; it is simply the absence of light. When Christ entered the world, He brought an eternal, unquenchable light that the enemy can never extinguish.

Walking in the Light

As believers, we are called out of the shadows. We no longer have to hide our brokenness or fear the exposure of the light. Instead, we can welcome the light of Christ to heal us, guide us, and shine through us into a hurting world. The darkness around us may be loud, but it is already a defeated foe. The Light has won.

A Closing Prayer

Heavenly Father,

We thank You for sending Your Son, Jesus Christ, to be the living Light in a dark and broken world. Lord, we confess that our world often prefers the shadows, and we ask for Your mercy. Forgive us for the times we have retreated into spiritual darkness or allowed fear to cloud our faith.

We praise You for the truth of John 1:5—that no matter how aggressive the darkness seems, it can never overpower Your light. Let Your light penetrate the hidden corners of our hearts today. Expose what needs to be healed, and cast out all fear, anxiety, and doubt.

Empower us by Your Holy Spirit to be reflectors of Your light to those around us. Give us the courage to stand firm, knowing that the ultimate victory belongs to You.

In Jesus’ mighty and overcoming name, we pray. Amen.

Affiliate Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through these links, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Bible Study Tools I Use

Some of our Post That Might Interest You, All Out of the Current Book / Chapter

  1. LIFE WAS THE LIGHT OF MEN / JOHN 1:4
  2. WITH GOD IN THE BEGINNING / JOHN 1:2
  3. THE WORD / JOHN 1:1
  4. CREWS N AWAY: ANCHORED IN GRACE

Thanks for stopping by the blog today! I love having you here. If this post resonated with you, please drop a comment below and share your thoughts. See you in the next post!

Blessings, Margarita & Stace

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LIFE WAS THE LIGHT OF MEN / JOHN 1:4

START YOUR DAY RIGHT DAILY DEVOTION

(KJV) John 1:4

In him was life; and the life was the light of men.

Walking in the Living Word: Why Jesus is Our Life and Light

When we open the Gospel of John, we are immediately met with some of the most profound truths in all of Scripture. In John 1:4, we read a short but revolutionary phrase: “In him was life, and that life was the light of all mankind.”

These two concepts—Life and Light—are not just poetic words. They are the heartbeat of who Jesus is and what He came to offer us. Let’s dive deeper into what these terms mean for our daily walk with God.

1. Jesus is the Source of True Life (Zoe)

The Gospel of John uses the Greek word for life, zoe, a staggering 36 times. This isn’t just talking about biological existence; it refers to the fullness of life, eternal life, and life as God intended it to be lived.

Throughout His ministry, Jesus continuously connects Himself to this concept of life:

  • The Sustainer: He is the Bread of Life (John 6:35) and the Water of Life (John 4:10-11), satisfying our deepest spiritual hungers and thirsts.
  • The Speaker: His words are the very words of eternal life (John 6:68).
  • The Giver: He came so that we might have life more abundantly (John 10:10).
  • The Essence: Ultimately, Jesus doesn’t just give life; He is the life (John 14:6).

True life is embodied in Jesus and is something we get to experience intimately through a personal, ongoing relationship with Him (John 17:3).

2. Jesus is the Light That Guides Us (Phos)

John mentions light (Greek: phos) 23 times in his Gospel—more than any other book in the New Testament.

When John says that Jesus’ life is the light of men, he means that Jesus reveals God to us. In a world often clouded by confusion, pain, and spiritual darkness, Jesus steps in as a beacon of clarity.

  • He shows us God’s true nature, power, and perfect plan.
  • He illuminates the way back to the Father, declaring, “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life” (John 8:12).
  • Through Him, we don’t just look at the light; we are transformed by it. We become children of light (John 12:36) and are invited to daily walk in the light in perfect fellowship with Him (1 John 1:7).

Choosing the Light Today

Living in the light means letting Jesus expose the dark corners of our hearts, heal our wounds, and direct our steps. When we align our lives with His truth, we no longer have to stumble through the uncertainties of this world. We have the Creator of the universe lighting our path and filling us with His unmatched, vibrant life.

A Closing Prayer

Heavenly Father,

Thank You for sending Your Son, Jesus Christ, to be our Life and our Light. In moments when the world feels dark or overwhelming, remind us of the truth found in John 1:4. We thank You that in Christ, we have access to abundant, eternal life—a life of purpose, peace, and deep connection with You.

Illuminate our hearts today. Show us where we are still trying to walk in the shadows, and gently guide us back into Your truth. Help us to live visibly as children of light, reflecting Your love, grace, and holiness to everyone around us. We anchor our hope in Jesus, the living Word.

In Jesus’ mighty name, Amen.

Affiliate Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through these links, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Bible Study Tools I Use

Some of our Post That Might Interest You, All Out of the Current Book / Chapter

  1. WITH GOD IN THE BEGINNING / JOHN 1:2
  2. THE WORD / JOHN 1:1
  3. CREWS N AWAY: ANCHORED IN GRACE

Thanks for stopping by the blog today! I love having you here. If this post resonated with you, please drop a comment below and share your thoughts. See you in the next post!

Blessings, Margarita & Stace

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WITH GOD IN THE BEGINNING / JOHN 1:2

START YOUR DAY RIGHT DAILY DEVOTION

(KJV) John 1:2

The same was in the beginning with God.

Before the First Morning: Finding Our Anchor in John 1:2

We often measure our lives by beginnings. We celebrate the start of a new year, the launch of a fresh career, or the birth of a child. We also look back at our personal histories to understand who we are—sometimes anchoring our identity in broken beginnings, past mistakes, or old wounds.

But the Gospel of John opens by pulling back the curtain on a timeline that transcends human history, inviting us to anchor our identity in an origin story older than the universe itself.

In John 1:2, the author pauses to reiterate a staggering truth about Jesus Christ:

“He was with God in the beginning.”

The Uncreated, Eternal Christ

This brief line isn’t just a poetic echo of the first verse. It is a profound theological anchor. John wants to ensure there is absolutely no room for doubt: Christ was not created. He did not come into existence at the manger in Bethlehem, nor was He a secondary spirit brought forth to assist the Father.

Jesus is eternal and infinite—without beginning or end. Before there was any created matter, before time was woven into existence, the Word already was. He is the co-Creator of all things, standing completely outside the constraints of the universe He authored.

Eternal Companionship

John 1:2 also reveals that Jesus has always been in loving companionship with the Father and the Holy Spirit. The phrase “with God” implies an intimate, face-to-face communion. It is the same perfect love the Father declared at the start of Christ’s earthly ministry: “You are my Son, whom I love; with you I am well pleased.” (Mark 1:11).

This triune fellowship was not lonely or lacking. Yet, out of the overflow of this eternal love, Christ chose to step out of timeless fellowship and enter into our time-bound, fragile world. He didn’t come to fix a minor glitch; He came to pull us out of the darkness and draw us into the very relationship He has shared with the Father from the beginning.

What This Means for You Today

When you face a daunting new chapter, a sudden trial, or an uncertain future, you can take comfort in knowing that Christ is already there. Because He is infinite and exists equally in our past, present, and future, you are never stepping into the unknown alone.

Your truest origin is not the brokenness of this world, but the unbroken love of the Savior who knew you before the first morning. Lean into that ancient, unchanging fellowship today.

Closing Prayer

Heavenly Father, Almighty God,

We stand in awe of Your eternal majesty. Thank You for sending the Eternal Word, Jesus Christ, who was with You from the very beginning, to step into our history and rescue us. Forgive us for the times we anchor our security in fleeting things or allow our past mistakes to define who we are.

Lord Jesus, thank You that You are uncreated, infinite, and secure. We praise You for the perfect, loving companionship You share with the Father and the Holy Spirit—and we thank You for inviting us into that divine fellowship. As we step into the unknown spaces of our lives, remind us that You are already there, holding our tomorrows in Your hands. Fill us with Your Holy Spirit today, and let Your eternal love anchor our souls. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Affiliate Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through these links, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Bible Study Tools I Use

Some of our Post That Might Interest You, All Out of the Current Book / Chapter

  1. THE WORD / JOHN 1:1
  2. CREWS N AWAY: ANCHORED IN GRACE

Thanks for stopping by the blog today! I love having you here. If this post resonated with you, please drop a comment below and share your thoughts. See you in the next post!

Blessings, Margarita & Stace

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THE WORD / JOHN 1:1

START YOUR DAY RIGHT DAILY DEVOTION

(KJV) John 1:1

 In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.

The Living Word: Unpacking the Majesty of John 1:1

“In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.”

With these majestic words, the Apostle John opens his Gospel, taking us on a journey back before the dawn of time. While other Gospel writers begin with the earthly birth of Jesus or His public ministry, John pulls back the curtain of eternity. He introduces us to Jesus Christ by a profound and beautiful title: the Word (in Greek, Logos).

Just as our spoken words reveal our innermost thoughts, heart, and character to others, Jesus is the ultimate expression of the heart and mind of God. He is not merely a messenger; He is the message. He is God in human form.

Based on the opening of John’s Gospel, we can understand the identity of Jesus through three powerful relationships.

1. The Word in Relation to the Father

John 1:1 establishes the eternal identity of Jesus within the Godhead.

  • He is Eternal and Distinct: John writes that the Word was “with God” before the creation of the world. Jesus existed from all eternity—without beginning or end—as a distinct person from God the Father, yet enjoying a perfect, intimate, and unified relationship with Him.
  • He is Fully Divine: The text boldly declares that “the Word was God.” Jesus possesses the exact same nature, character, and quality of being as the Father. As Colossians 2:9 reminds us, the entire fullness of God’s nature dwells in Him bodily.

2. The Word in Relation to the World

Jesus is not a bystander in creation; He is the Author of it. John 1:3 reveals that through the Word, God spoke all things into existence, echoing the powerful creative commands of Genesis 1.

  • The Agent of Creation: Every galaxy, every ocean, and every breath of life was fashioned by Him.
  • The Purpose of Creation: Scripture reveals that all things were not only made by Him, but ultimately for Him (Colossians 1:16). He holds the entire cosmos together, and the universe finds its ultimate meaning in Him.

3. The Word in Relation to Humanity

Perhaps the most staggering truth in all of Scripture is found just a few verses later in John 1:14: “The Word became flesh and dwelt among us.”

  • The Incarnation: The eternal, divine Word stepped out of the glories of heaven and entered the fragile condition of human life through the gateway of human birth.
  • Perfect and Sinless: Conceived by a miracle of the Holy Spirit, Jesus took on our human form but remained entirely without a sinful nature. He became fully man while remaining fully God, allowing us to see a perfect representation of the Father’s love, grace, and truth.

Living in the Light of the Word

When we look at Jesus, we are looking at the perfect revelation of God. We no longer have to wonder what God is like, what He thinks about us, or how deeply He loves us. It is all vividly displayed in the person of Jesus Christ—the wisdom of God, the Creator of the universe, and the Savior who became like us so that we could be reconciled to Him.

A Closing Prayer

Heavenly Father,

We stand in awe of the mystery and majesty of Your holy Word. Thank You for revealing Your heart, Your mind, and Your character to us through Your Son, Jesus Christ. We praise You, Lord Jesus, as the eternal Creator who was with God and who is God, yet who humbled Yourself to take on human flesh for our sake.

Open our hearts to fully receive Your truth. Help us to walk in Your wisdom, to understand Your divine purposes, and to reflect Your perfect love to the world around us. May our lives honor You, the Living Word, who holds all things together.

In the precious name of Jesus Christ, we pray, Amen.

Affiliate Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through these links, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Bible Study Tools I Use

Some of our Post That Might Interest You, All Out of the Current Book / Chapter

  1. CREWS N AWAY: ANCHORED IN GRACE

Thanks for stopping by the blog today! I love having you here. If this post resonated with you, please drop a comment below and share your thoughts. See you in the next post!

Blessings, Margarita & Stace

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ASHAMED OF ME AND MY WORDS / MARK 8:38

START YOUR DAY RIGHT DAILY DEVOTION

(KJV) Mark 8:38

If anyone is ashamed of me and my words in this adulterous and sinful generation, the Son of Man will be ashamed of them when he comes in his Father’s glory with the holy angels.”

The pressure to fit in is stronger than ever. We live in a culture that demands conformity, constantly pushing us to compromise our convictions to escape social awkwardness or outright rejection.

But in Mark 8:38, Jesus cuts straight through our desire for human approval with a sobering warning:

“If anyone is ashamed of me and my words in this adulterous and sinful generation, the Son of Man will be ashamed of them when he comes in his Father’s glory with the holy angels.”

The Reality of Our Culture

Jesus doesn’t sugarcoat the state of the world. He describes the society around us as an “adulterous and sinful generation.” This means that, at its core, the world system is unfaithful to God’s purposes and openly rebellious against His truth.

When we try to blend into a culture that rejects God, we inevitably find ourselves tempted to hide our faith. We stay silent when we should speak. We nod along with ideas we know contradict Scripture. We choose comfort over conviction because we are afraid of what people might think of us.

The True Cost of Social Approval

It is easy to care more about how our peers view us today than how God views us in eternity. But Jesus warns us that this trade-off is a spiritual trap.

If we choose the fleeting applause of a sinful world over loyalty to Christ, He will reject us when He returns in His Father’s glory. True discipleship requires courage. It demands that we anchor our identity so deeply in Christ that the opinions of this world lose their power over us. We cannot love the praise of people more than the praise of God.

Living Unashamed

To live unashamed of Jesus and His words means to stand firm in His truth, even when it is unpopular. It means letting our light shine in the darkness, confident that the approval of our Savior outweighs any earthly rejection. Let us choose today to live for the Audience of One, eagerly awaiting the day He returns in glory.

Closing Prayer

Heavenly Father, forgive me for the times I have stayed silent or compromised my faith out of fear of what others might think. Give me the courage to stand boldly for Your truth in a world that often rejects it. Help me to never be ashamed of the Gospel or the words of Jesus. Anchor my heart in Your approval alone, so that I may live fully for Your glory. When Christ returns, may He find me standing firm, faithful, and unashamed. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Affiliate Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through these links, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Bible Study Tools I Use

Some of our Post That Might Interest You, All Out of the Current Book / Chapter

  1. DENY HIMSELF AND TAKE UP HIS CROSS / MARK 8:34
  2. GET BEHIND ME SATAN / MARK 8:33
  3. WARNED THEM NOT TO TELL / MARK 8:30
  4. HIS SIGHT WAS RESTORED / MARK 8:25
  5. YEAST / MARK 8:15
  6. I HAVE COMPASSION / MARK 8:2
  7. CHILDREN’S BREAD / MARK 7:27
  8. FOLLY / MARK 7:22
  9. MEN’S HEARTS / MARK 7:20-23
  10. MAKE HIM ‘UNCLEAN’ / MARK 7:18
  11. THE TRADITIONS OF MEN / MARK 7:8
  12. THEIR HEARTS ARE FAR FROM ME / MARK 7:6-7
  13. FIVE LOAVES … TWO FISH … THANKSGIVING AT MEALTIMES / MARK 6:41
  14. COMPASSION / MARK 6:34
  15. DANCED / MARK 6:22
  16. JOHN IN PRISON / MARK 6:17
  17. ANOINTED WITH OIL / MARK 6:13
  18. EVIL SPIRITS / MARK 6:7
  19. LACK OF FAITH / MARK 6:6
  20. JESUS … A PROPHET / MARK 6:4
  21. JUST BELIEVE / MARK 5:36
  22. JUST TOUCH HIS CLOTHES / MARK 5:27-28
  23. A MAN WITH AN EVIL SPIRIT / MARK 5:2-17
  24. JESUS WAS SLEEPING / MARK 4:38
  25. MUSTARD SEED / Mark 4:31
  26. EVEN WHAT HE HAS WILL BE TAKEN / MARK 4:24-25
  27. TAKES AWAY THE WORD / MARK 4:15-17
  28. A FARMER WENT OUT TO SOW / MARK 4:3
  29. PARABLES / MARK 4:2
  30. BLASPHEMES AGAINST THE HOLY SPIRIT / Mark 3:29
  31. TIES UP THE STRONG MAN / MARK 3:27
  32. AUTHORITY TO DRIVE OUT DEMONS / MARK 3:15
  33. THAT THEY MIGHT BE WITH HIM / MARK 3:14
  34. HEALED MANY / MARK 3:10-12
  35. HERODIANS / MARK 3:6
  36. LOOKED … IN ANGER / MARK 3:5
  37. THE SABBATH WAS MADE FOR MAN / MARK 2:27-28
  38. SABBATH / MARK 2:23
  39. NEW WINE INTO OLD WINESKINS / MARK 2:22
  40. ON THAT DAY THEY WILL FAST / MARK 2:20
  41. TO CALL … SINNERS / MARK 2:17
  42. HEALING THE PARALYZED MAN / MARK 2:11
  43. SON OF MAN / MARK 2:10
  44. DROVE OUT MANY DEMONS / MARK 1:34
  45. EVIL SPIRITS OBEY HIM /MARK 1:27
  46. SYNAGOGUE / MARK 1:21
  47. COME FOLLOW ME / MARK 1:17
  48. KINGDOM OF GOD / MARK 1:15
  49. THE GOOD NEWS / MARK 1:14
  50. TEMPTED BY SATAN / MARK 1:13
  51. MY SON, WHOM I LOVE / MARK 1:11
  52. THE SPIRIT DESCENDING ON HIM / MARK 1:10
  53. JESUS WAS BAPTIZED / MARK 1:9
  54. BAPTIZE YOU WITH THE HOLY SPIRIT / MARK 1:8
  55. THE WHOLE JUDEAN COUNTRYSIDE / MARK1:5
  56. BAPTISM OF REPENTANCE / MARK 1:4
  57. THE BEGINNING OF THE GOSPEL / MARK 1:1-3
  58. CREWS N AWAY: ANCHORED IN GRACE

Thanks for stopping by the blog today! I love having you here. If this post resonated with you, please drop a comment below and share your thoughts. See you in the next post!

Blessings, Margarita & Stace

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DENY HIMSELF AND TAKE UP HIS CROSS / MARK 8:34

START YOUR DAY RIGHT DAILY DEVOTION

(KJV) Mark 8:34

Then he called the crowd to him along with his disciples and said: “Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross and follow me.

Denying Self and Taking Up the Cross: The True Cost of Discipleship

In Mark 8:34, Jesus issues a profound and challenging call to anyone who desires to follow Him: “Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross and follow me.”

This isn’t a call to a comfortable, casual faith. To deny self means to deliberately put aside our own selfish desires, ambitions, and comforts in order to serve Christ and His purposes, no matter the cost. In the Roman world, the cross wasn’t a piece of jewelry; it was a brutal instrument of execution. The cross of Christ is a symbol of suffering, death, shame, ridicule, and complete rejection.

When we make the choice to take up our cross, we are choosing to die to our old way of life and boldly identify with Jesus. Our identity becomes so interwoven with His that our reputation cannot be separated from our relationship with Him. Walking this path requires a deep commitment across four specific areas of spiritual struggle and suffering.

1. The Lifelong Battle Against Sin

Taking up the cross means engaging in a daily, lifelong war against our own fallen nature. We are called to willingly endure the internal struggle of crucifying our sinful desires—which means putting them to death, refusing to feed them, and becoming unresponsive to them. As we choose righteousness over personal gratification, we actively participate in the transforming power of the Gospel.

2. The Warfare Against Darkness and Deception

We are thrust into a spiritual war against Satan and demonic powers. To advance Christ’s kingdom, we must be willing to suffer hardship, spiritual opposition, and hostility. This battle also requires us to stand firm against false teachers who corrupt the true message of Christ, protecting the integrity of the Gospel even when it brings fierce resistance.

3. The Hatred and Ridicule of the World

Because of our devotion to Christ and His standards of truth, we will inevitably face opposition from secular culture. When we live out God’s truth with love and humility, our example exposes the evil and brokenness of worldly behaviors. The world often responds to this conviction with ridicule and rejection, testing where our ultimate allegiance lies.

4. Opposition from Religious and Ungodly Leaders

Just as Jesus suffered under the religious establishment of His day, true disciples may face persecution from religious people or ungodly leaders who value legalism, power, or tradition over the living truth of God. Standing for the authentic Gospel can make us targets for those who prefer religious outward appearances over genuine heart transformation.

A Closing Prayer for the Journey

Heavenly Father,

Thank You for the profound grace that reached out and saved us. Lord Jesus, Your call to deny ourselves and take up our cross is heavy, and we recognize that we cannot walk this path in our own strength. We ask for the power of the Holy Spirit to help us put to death our selfish desires each day.

Give us the courage to boldly identify with You, even when it brings ridicule, rejection, or spiritual opposition. Help us to stand firm against sin, the deceptions of the enemy, and the pressures of this world. May our lives be so hidden in You that our reputation is entirely defined by our love for You. Guard our hearts with humility, fill our mouths with Your truth spoken in love, and sustain us through every trial. We commit our ways to You, trusting that the road of the cross leads to eternal life.

In Jesus’ mighty name we pray, Amen.

Affiliate Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through these links, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Bible Study Tools I Use

Some of our Post That Might Interest You, All Out of the Current Book / Chapter

  1. GET BEHIND ME SATAN / MARK 8:33
  2. WARNED THEM NOT TO TELL / MARK 8:30
  3. HIS SIGHT WAS RESTORED / MARK 8:25
  4. YEAST / MARK 8:15
  5. I HAVE COMPASSION / MARK 8:2
  6. CHILDREN’S BREAD / MARK 7:27
  7. FOLLY / MARK 7:22
  8. MEN’S HEARTS / MARK 7:20-23
  9. MAKE HIM ‘UNCLEAN’ / MARK 7:18
  10. THE TRADITIONS OF MEN / MARK 7:8
  11. THEIR HEARTS ARE FAR FROM ME / MARK 7:6-7
  12. FIVE LOAVES … TWO FISH … THANKSGIVING AT MEALTIMES / MARK 6:41
  13. COMPASSION / MARK 6:34
  14. DANCED / MARK 6:22
  15. JOHN IN PRISON / MARK 6:17
  16. ANOINTED WITH OIL / MARK 6:13
  17. EVIL SPIRITS / MARK 6:7
  18. LACK OF FAITH / MARK 6:6
  19. JESUS … A PROPHET / MARK 6:4
  20. JUST BELIEVE / MARK 5:36
  21. JUST TOUCH HIS CLOTHES / MARK 5:27-28
  22. A MAN WITH AN EVIL SPIRIT / MARK 5:2-17
  23. JESUS WAS SLEEPING / MARK 4:38
  24. MUSTARD SEED / Mark 4:31
  25. EVEN WHAT HE HAS WILL BE TAKEN / MARK 4:24-25
  26. TAKES AWAY THE WORD / MARK 4:15-17
  27. A FARMER WENT OUT TO SOW / MARK 4:3
  28. PARABLES / MARK 4:2
  29. BLASPHEMES AGAINST THE HOLY SPIRIT / Mark 3:29
  30. TIES UP THE STRONG MAN / MARK 3:27
  31. AUTHORITY TO DRIVE OUT DEMONS / MARK 3:15
  32. THAT THEY MIGHT BE WITH HIM / MARK 3:14
  33. HEALED MANY / MARK 3:10-12
  34. HERODIANS / MARK 3:6
  35. LOOKED … IN ANGER / MARK 3:5
  36. THE SABBATH WAS MADE FOR MAN / MARK 2:27-28
  37. SABBATH / MARK 2:23
  38. NEW WINE INTO OLD WINESKINS / MARK 2:22
  39. ON THAT DAY THEY WILL FAST / MARK 2:20
  40. TO CALL … SINNERS / MARK 2:17
  41. HEALING THE PARALYZED MAN / MARK 2:11
  42. SON OF MAN / MARK 2:10
  43. DROVE OUT MANY DEMONS / MARK 1:34
  44. EVIL SPIRITS OBEY HIM /MARK 1:27
  45. SYNAGOGUE / MARK 1:21
  46. COME FOLLOW ME / MARK 1:17
  47. KINGDOM OF GOD / MARK 1:15
  48. THE GOOD NEWS / MARK 1:14
  49. TEMPTED BY SATAN / MARK 1:13
  50. MY SON, WHOM I LOVE / MARK 1:11
  51. THE SPIRIT DESCENDING ON HIM / MARK 1:10
  52. JESUS WAS BAPTIZED / MARK 1:9
  53. BAPTIZE YOU WITH THE HOLY SPIRIT / MARK 1:8
  54. THE WHOLE JUDEAN COUNTRYSIDE / MARK1:5
  55. BAPTISM OF REPENTANCE / MARK 1:4
  56. THE BEGINNING OF THE GOSPEL / MARK 1:1-3
  57. CREWS N AWAY: ANCHORED IN GRACE

Thanks for stopping by the blog today! I love having you here. If this post resonated with you, please drop a comment below and share your thoughts. See you in the next post!

Blessings, Margarita & Stace

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GET BEHIND ME SATAN / MARK 8:33

START YOUR DAY RIGHT DAILY DEVOTION

(KJV) Mark 8:33

But when Jesus turned and looked at his disciples, he rebuked Peter. “Get behind me, Satan!” he said. “You do not have in mind the concerns of God, but merely human concerns.”

The Comfort Trap: Why Jesus Said “Get Behind Me, Satan”

It is one of the most jarring, uncomfortable moments in all of Scripture. One minute, Peter is the star disciple, correctly declaring, “You are the Christ.” The next minute, Jesus looks him dead in the eye and delivers a crushing blow: “Get behind me, Satan! For you are not setting your mind on the things of God, but on the things of man” (Mark 8:33).

How did Peter go from being the rock of the church to being called the ultimate adversary in a matter of moments?

The answer lies in a subtle, dangerous trap we all fall into: the pursuit of a crown without a cross.

The Danger of Good Intentions

When Jesus began to openly teach that He must suffer, be rejected, and die, Peter’s protective instincts kicked in. Matthew’s Gospel tells us that Peter took Jesus aside and essentially said, “God forbid, Lord! This shall never happen to you.”

Peter wasn’t trying to be evil. He loved Jesus. He wanted to protect his Friend, his Teacher, and his King. From a human point of view, his reaction was completely reasonable. Suffering and public execution had absolutely no place in Peter’s vision of a victorious Messiah.

But that is exactly why Jesus’ response was so fierce.

Jesus wasn’t saying Peter was literally the devil. Rather, He recognized the source of the influence behind Peter’s words. By trying to save Jesus from the cross, Peter was inadvertently presenting the exact same temptation Satan laid before Jesus in the wilderness: to claim His kingdom and glory without going through the pain of the crucifixion.

The Ultimate Shift: God’s Perspective vs. Man’s

Jesus exposed the core issue when He told Peter: “You do not have in mind the things of God, but the things of men”.

Human PerspectiveGod’s Perspective
Avoid suffering at all costsEmbrace sacrifice for the sake of love
Prioritize immediate comfort and safetyPrioritize eternal redemption and obedience
Define victory as temporal power and praiseDefine victory as a cross and an empty tomb

When we play God instead of following Him, our “good intentions” can actually become a roadblock to His divine purpose. Without the suffering of the cross, there is no resurrection. Without the sacrifice, there is no eternal life for humanity.

Getting Behind Jesus

When Jesus says, “Get behind Me,” it carries a double meaning. It is a command to banish the satanic temptation to avoid God’s will. But it is also a call to standard discipleship. Jesus is reminding Peter of his proper place: “Stop trying to lead Me, Peter. Get back behind Me and follow.”

We face this same challenge every single day. Will we choose the path of comfort, or will we choose the path of the cross? When God’s plans disrupt our comfort, break our hearts, or don’t line up with how we think things should go, we have a choice. We can rebuke God’s plan, or we can submit to it.

Following Jesus doesn’t mean avoiding hardship. It means trusting that God’s ultimate design is far greater than our temporary comfort.

Closing Prayer

Lord Jesus,

Forgive us for the times we value our own comfort over Your calling. Like Peter, we confess that we often want a life of victory without any sacrifice. When suffering comes or when Your plans don’t match our expectations, give us the grace to trust Your heart.

Help us to silence the voice of temptation that tells us to take the easy way out. Remove our human near-sightedness and give us Your eternal perspective. Teach us to step back, get behind You, and follow wherever You lead, knowing that the path of the cross always leads to resurrection life.

In Your holy name we pray, Amen.

Affiliate Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through these links, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Bible Study Tools I Use

Some of our Post That Might Interest You, All Out of the Current Book / Chapter

  1. WARNED THEM NOT TO TELL / MARK 8:30
  2. HIS SIGHT WAS RESTORED / MARK 8:25
  3. YEAST / MARK 8:15
  4. I HAVE COMPASSION / MARK 8:2
  5. CHILDREN’S BREAD / MARK 7:27
  6. FOLLY / MARK 7:22
  7. MEN’S HEARTS / MARK 7:20-23
  8. MAKE HIM ‘UNCLEAN’ / MARK 7:18
  9. THE TRADITIONS OF MEN / MARK 7:8
  10. THEIR HEARTS ARE FAR FROM ME / MARK 7:6-7
  11. FIVE LOAVES … TWO FISH … THANKSGIVING AT MEALTIMES / MARK 6:41
  12. COMPASSION / MARK 6:34
  13. DANCED / MARK 6:22
  14. JOHN IN PRISON / MARK 6:17
  15. ANOINTED WITH OIL / MARK 6:13
  16. EVIL SPIRITS / MARK 6:7
  17. LACK OF FAITH / MARK 6:6
  18. JESUS … A PROPHET / MARK 6:4
  19. JUST BELIEVE / MARK 5:36
  20. JUST TOUCH HIS CLOTHES / MARK 5:27-28
  21. A MAN WITH AN EVIL SPIRIT / MARK 5:2-17
  22. JESUS WAS SLEEPING / MARK 4:38
  23. MUSTARD SEED / Mark 4:31
  24. EVEN WHAT HE HAS WILL BE TAKEN / MARK 4:24-25
  25. TAKES AWAY THE WORD / MARK 4:15-17
  26. A FARMER WENT OUT TO SOW / MARK 4:3
  27. PARABLES / MARK 4:2
  28. BLASPHEMES AGAINST THE HOLY SPIRIT / Mark 3:29
  29. TIES UP THE STRONG MAN / MARK 3:27
  30. AUTHORITY TO DRIVE OUT DEMONS / MARK 3:15
  31. THAT THEY MIGHT BE WITH HIM / MARK 3:14
  32. HEALED MANY / MARK 3:10-12
  33. HERODIANS / MARK 3:6
  34. LOOKED … IN ANGER / MARK 3:5
  35. THE SABBATH WAS MADE FOR MAN / MARK 2:27-28
  36. SABBATH / MARK 2:23
  37. NEW WINE INTO OLD WINESKINS / MARK 2:22
  38. ON THAT DAY THEY WILL FAST / MARK 2:20
  39. TO CALL … SINNERS / MARK 2:17
  40. HEALING THE PARALYZED MAN / MARK 2:11
  41. SON OF MAN / MARK 2:10
  42. DROVE OUT MANY DEMONS / MARK 1:34
  43. EVIL SPIRITS OBEY HIM /MARK 1:27
  44. SYNAGOGUE / MARK 1:21
  45. COME FOLLOW ME / MARK 1:17
  46. KINGDOM OF GOD / MARK 1:15
  47. THE GOOD NEWS / MARK 1:14
  48. TEMPTED BY SATAN / MARK 1:13
  49. MY SON, WHOM I LOVE / MARK 1:11
  50. THE SPIRIT DESCENDING ON HIM / MARK 1:10
  51. JESUS WAS BAPTIZED / MARK 1:9
  52. BAPTIZE YOU WITH THE HOLY SPIRIT / MARK 1:8
  53. THE WHOLE JUDEAN COUNTRYSIDE / MARK1:5
  54. BAPTISM OF REPENTANCE / MARK 1:4
  55. THE BEGINNING OF THE GOSPEL / MARK 1:1-3
  56. CREWS N AWAY: ANCHORED IN GRACE

Thanks for stopping by the blog today! I love having you here. If this post resonated with you, please drop a comment below and share your thoughts. See you in the next post!

Blessings, Margarita & Stace

Posted on

WARNED THEM NOT TO TELL / MARK 8:30

START YOUR DAY RIGHT DAILY DEVOTION

(KJV) Mark 8:30

Jesus warned them not to tell anyone about him.

When Silence Protects the Purpose: Understanding Mark 8:30

We live in a culture driven by the urge to broadcast everything. The moment something incredible happens, our immediate instinct is to share it on social media, text our friends, or shout it from the virtual rooftops. We measure the value of information by how quickly it goes viral.

That is why reading the Gospel of Mark can feel so jarring.

In Mark 8:29, Jesus asks His disciples the ultimate question: “But who do you say I am?” Peter, bold and insightful, delivers the correct answer: “You are the Messiah.” It is a breakthrough moment. But instead of telling them to launch a public relations campaign, Jesus does something completely unexpected in the very next verse:

“Jesus warned them not to tell anyone about him.” — Mark 8:30 (NIV)

Why would Jesus want to keep the greatest news in human history a secret? Scholars often call this the “Messianic Secret,” GotQuestions.org and exploring it reveals two profound truths about God’s timing and how we understand who He is.

1. Misunderstanding the Mission

In first-century Israel, the word “Messiah” carried heavy political and military expectations. The Jewish people were suffering under brutal Roman oppression. They were looking for a conquering king—a political revolutionary who would overthrow Rome, establish an earthly kingdom, and bring immediate physical relief Truth Applied.

If the disciples had gone out preaching that Jesus was the Messiah at that exact moment, it would have sparked a political uprising based on a complete misunderstanding of His mission. Jesus didn’t come to conquer Rome; He came to conquer sin and death. He didn’t come to sit on an earthly throne; He came to die on a Roman cross. By enforcing silence, Jesus protected the true purpose of His mission until the timing was right.

2. Letting Jesus Define Himself

Even the disciples didn’t fully grasp what they were saying yet. Right after Peter’s confession, Jesus begins explaining that He must suffer, be rejected, and be killed The Gospel Coalition. Peter immediately takes Jesus aside and rebukes Him! Peter wanted a Messiah of glory, not a Messiah of suffering.

We often do the exact same thing. We try to define Jesus based on our own desires, cultures, or political alignments. We want a Jesus who fixes our immediate problems, guarantees our comfort, and nods along with our preferences.

But Mark 8:30 reminds us that we must let Jesus define Himself Heartlight.org. True discipleship means dropping our preconceived notions of who we think He should be and accepting Him for who He actually is: the Savior who redeems us through sacrificial love.

Moving Forward in His Timing

Today, we are no longer under the command to keep silent. After the resurrection, the secret was fully unveiled, and we were given the Great Commission to tell the world.

However, the lesson of Mark 8:30 remains true for our daily lives. It challenges us to pause before we speak for Jesus, and make sure we are actually listening to Him. Are we sharing the real Jesus of the Gospels, or a version we created in our own image?

Let’s commit to knowing Him deeply, accepting His timeline, and allowing Him to shape our lives from the inside out.

Closing Prayer

Heavenly Father,

Thank You for revealing the truth of who Your Son is. Forgive us for the times we try to mold Jesus into our own image or use Him to serve our own agendas. Help us to accept Him on His terms, embracing both His cross and His crown.

Give us the patience to trust Your perfect timing when your answers seem hidden or delayed. Open our hearts to understand Your true mission, and give us the courage to share the real, sacrificial love of Christ with a world that desperately needs it.

In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.

Affiliate Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through these links, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Bible Study Tools I Use

Some of our Post That Might Interest You, All Out of the Current Book / Chapter

  1. HIS SIGHT WAS RESTORED / MARK 8:25
  2. YEAST / MARK 8:15
  3. I HAVE COMPASSION / MARK 8:2
  4. CHILDREN’S BREAD / MARK 7:27
  5. FOLLY / MARK 7:22
  6. MEN’S HEARTS / MARK 7:20-23
  7. MAKE HIM ‘UNCLEAN’ / MARK 7:18
  8. THE TRADITIONS OF MEN / MARK 7:8
  9. THEIR HEARTS ARE FAR FROM ME / MARK 7:6-7
  10. FIVE LOAVES … TWO FISH … THANKSGIVING AT MEALTIMES / MARK 6:41
  11. COMPASSION / MARK 6:34
  12. DANCED / MARK 6:22
  13. JOHN IN PRISON / MARK 6:17
  14. ANOINTED WITH OIL / MARK 6:13
  15. EVIL SPIRITS / MARK 6:7
  16. LACK OF FAITH / MARK 6:6
  17. JESUS … A PROPHET / MARK 6:4
  18. JUST BELIEVE / MARK 5:36
  19. JUST TOUCH HIS CLOTHES / MARK 5:27-28
  20. A MAN WITH AN EVIL SPIRIT / MARK 5:2-17
  21. JESUS WAS SLEEPING / MARK 4:38
  22. MUSTARD SEED / Mark 4:31
  23. EVEN WHAT HE HAS WILL BE TAKEN / MARK 4:24-25
  24. TAKES AWAY THE WORD / MARK 4:15-17
  25. A FARMER WENT OUT TO SOW / MARK 4:3
  26. PARABLES / MARK 4:2
  27. BLASPHEMES AGAINST THE HOLY SPIRIT / Mark 3:29
  28. TIES UP THE STRONG MAN / MARK 3:27
  29. AUTHORITY TO DRIVE OUT DEMONS / MARK 3:15
  30. THAT THEY MIGHT BE WITH HIM / MARK 3:14
  31. HEALED MANY / MARK 3:10-12
  32. HERODIANS / MARK 3:6
  33. LOOKED … IN ANGER / MARK 3:5
  34. THE SABBATH WAS MADE FOR MAN / MARK 2:27-28
  35. SABBATH / MARK 2:23
  36. NEW WINE INTO OLD WINESKINS / MARK 2:22
  37. ON THAT DAY THEY WILL FAST / MARK 2:20
  38. TO CALL … SINNERS / MARK 2:17
  39. HEALING THE PARALYZED MAN / MARK 2:11
  40. SON OF MAN / MARK 2:10
  41. DROVE OUT MANY DEMONS / MARK 1:34
  42. EVIL SPIRITS OBEY HIM /MARK 1:27
  43. SYNAGOGUE / MARK 1:21
  44. COME FOLLOW ME / MARK 1:17
  45. KINGDOM OF GOD / MARK 1:15
  46. THE GOOD NEWS / MARK 1:14
  47. TEMPTED BY SATAN / MARK 1:13
  48. MY SON, WHOM I LOVE / MARK 1:11
  49. THE SPIRIT DESCENDING ON HIM / MARK 1:10
  50. JESUS WAS BAPTIZED / MARK 1:9
  51. BAPTIZE YOU WITH THE HOLY SPIRIT / MARK 1:8
  52. THE WHOLE JUDEAN COUNTRYSIDE / MARK1:5
  53. BAPTISM OF REPENTANCE / MARK 1:4
  54. THE BEGINNING OF THE GOSPEL / MARK 1:1-3
  55. CREWS N AWAY: ANCHORED IN GRACE

Thanks for stopping by the blog today! I love having you here. If this post resonated with you, please drop a comment below and share your thoughts. See you in the next post!

Blessings, Margarita & Stace

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