Tag: God

Categories
Music Songs

The Father who ran

Two men embracing tightly on a city sidewalk with bags on the ground nearby
Two men share a heartfelt hug on a city sidewalk at dusk.

A Song of Scandalous Grace

We have all heard the story of the Prodigal Son in Luke 15. We know the beats of the narrative. The rebellious son demands his inheritance, squanders it in a distant land, hits rock bottom in a pigpen, and decides to crawl back home begging to be a hired servant.

But there is a specific, radical moment in that scripture that completely flips the cultural norms of the ancient world upside down.

It’s the moment the Father ran.

My new song, “The Father Ran,” is born directly out of this profound, beautiful text. It is a musical reflection on the heart of a Father who doesn’t wait for us to clean ourselves up before He embraces us.

The Scandal of the Running Father

In ancient Near Eastern culture, an elder patriarch, a man of stature and wealth, never ran. It was considered deeply undignified. To run meant a man had to lift up his long robes, exposing his ankles, a deeply humiliating act in that society.

Yet, Luke 15:20 tells us:

“But while he was still a long way off, his father saw him and was filled with compassion for him; he ran to his son, threw his arms around him and kissed him.”

The Father didn’t walk. He didn’t wait on the porch with a lecture prepared. He didn’t demand an apology first. He cast aside his dignity, broke all the social rules, and ran to bridge the gap. He took the shame of the village upon himself to intercept his broken son before anyone else could condemn him.

Behind the Song

When I sat down to compose “The Father Ran,” I wanted the music and the lyrics to capture that breathtaking transition from the heavy, lonely isolation of the pigpen to the overwhelming, fast-paced joy of the Father’s embrace.

This song is for anyone who feels like they’ve wandered too far. It’s for the person who thinks their past is too messy, their mistakes are too loud, or that they’ve used up their second chances.

The message of this song is simple: God is not waiting to judge you; He is running to restore you.

Listen to “The Father Ran” Now

Join the Conversation

I would love to hear how this song speaks to your own journey of faith. What does the image of a running Father mean to you? Leave a comment below, share this post with someone who needs a reminder of God’s scandalous grace today, and don’t forget to subscribe to the blog for more behind-the-scenes updates on my musical and writing journey!

Download

Free ebook, The Gospel according to Luke, by Dr Andrew Koh

https://storyoriginapp.com/giveaways/bcb88f94-7904-11ec-8dca-5361fbc9fae8

Dr Andrew C S Koh


Categories
Music Songs

The Good Samaritan

Young man assisting elderly woman kneeling on cobblestone street
A young man helps an elderly woman who has fallen on a cobblestone street.

A Song about compassion that crosses boundaries

In a world filled with division, suspicion, and indifference, the story of the Good Samaritan remains one of the most powerful teachings ever told by Jesus.

My new song, “The Good Samaritan,” is inspired by the parable found in Luke 10:25–37, a story that challenges us to move beyond words and show mercy through action.

The Story Behind the Song

Jesus told the story of a man traveling from Jerusalem to Jericho who was attacked by robbers, beaten, and left half dead on the roadside.

Several religious men passed by him.
They saw the wounded man.
But they kept walking.

Then came a Samaritan, someone considered an outsider and enemy by the Jews of that time. Instead of ignoring the wounded stranger, he stopped, cared for his wounds, carried him to safety, and paid for his recovery.

Jesus ended the parable with a simple but life-changing command:

“Go and do likewise.”

That message became the heartbeat of this song.

Why This Message Matters Today

It is easy to talk about faith.
It is harder to live it.

The Good Samaritan reminds us that love is not measured by religious appearance, but by compassion in action. True faith bends down to help the hurting, even when it is inconvenient.

In today’s world, many people feel wounded:

  • emotionally
  • spiritually
  • financially
  • relationally

Sometimes the greatest ministry is simply stopping to care.

This song is a reminder that kindness still matters, mercy still heals, and God can use ordinary people to reflect His love.

Writing the Song

While writing The Good Samaritan, I wanted the lyrics to feel both biblical and personal, faithful to the Gospel narrative while speaking to modern listeners.

The song moves through:

  • the loneliness of the wounded traveler,
  • the silence of those who passed by,
  • and the unexpected compassion of the Samaritan.

Musically, I wanted it to carry both tenderness and hope, because mercy changes lives.

The Spiritual Challenge

The question behind the parable is not:
“Who is my neighbor?”

The real question is:
“Will I become a neighbor to someone in need?”

That is the challenge Jesus leaves with every believer.

Listen and Share

I pray this song encourages you to live out your faith with compassion, courage, and generosity.

If the song blesses you, please listen, share it with others, and help spread the message of God’s love through music.

Download

The Gospel according to Luke, by Dr Andrew Koh

https://storyoriginapp.com/giveaways/bcb88f94-7904-11ec-8dca-5361fbc9fae8

Dr Andrew C S Koh


Categories
devotion

A Spiritual Reflection on the Body of Christ

Glowing human figure made of interconnected light strands in space
A glowing human figure composed of interconnected light strands walks through a vibrant cosmic space.

The Body of Christ

Scripture

For as the body is one and has many members, and all the members of the body, being many, are one body; so also is Christ. 1 Corinthians 12:12.

Reflection

Think about all the different parts that make up your body. An eye does a totally different job than a foot, but both are super important for how the body works as a whole. It’s kind of the same when you join a church. You’re not just joining a group. You’re becoming an important part of a living, breathing entity.

Every person brings their own views, experiences, and heart that can’t be replaced. So don’t stress about fitting in with everyone else in the pews. Your uniqueness is what makes you valuable. Everyone is linked by the same Holy Spirit, and it’s super important that you lean on others to really know what God’s love is all about.

If the hand decided to say to the feet that they don’t really matter, the whole body would really struggle to function properly. Just imagine if the eye went around saying it was more valuable than the ears; the whole body would still struggle to function properly. It’s clear that every single part of the body is integral, relying on one another for optimal performance and health. Ultimately, this interdependence highlights how teamwork among all body parts is essential for proper operation.

Every believer has a special role in the body of Christ, bringing their own gifts and talents to the table, and everyone’s contribution matters in the bigger picture of the church. Every single person in the body, no matter what they’re up to, helps build that feeling of togetherness and purpose.

Christ is the head of the church, which is also called the body of Christ. Just like your brain tells your body how to move, Christ is the one who guides and leads the church. The church works together as one big team under His direction, so His role is super important to your faith. In a nutshell, Christ is a big part of who the church is and what it’s meant to do.

To say it differently, 1 Peter 2:4-6 explains that Christ is the living cornerstone, (head) and believers are the living stones (parts) that come together to build God’s Holy temple (Church or body of Christ).

Life Application

So this week, I want to challenge you to spend some time just looking around and thinking about how you can make a difference! Try and find a cool way to help someone out or give them a little boost in your church or community. Just keep in mind that even little gestures, like a smile or a helping hand, can greatly touch someone else’s life, creating waves of kindness that go far beyond the moment.

Why not think about giving someone a hand if you know they’re going through a tough time? Just a little kindness can go a long way in bringing you closer to your community. This is a great opportunity to really connect with others. Caring for others is really important, and it can show up in so many ways, especially when someone’s having a good time or going through tough stuff.

When it comes to celebrating successes or being there for someone when things get tough, getting together to lift each other up really says a lot. Doing little random acts of kindness and being thoughtful can really make a difference. They help spread good vibes in your own life and throughout the community. By embodying this spirit, you can foster a culture of compassion that benefits everyone involved.

33 Days of Daily Faith

Click on this link and get a free ebook, ’33 Days of Daily Faith’, by Dr Andrew Koh

https://storyoriginapp.com/giveaways/8ee89042-ed49-11f0-9c2c-7f45f393f813

Top reviews from the United States

  • Big Mike &Tabi5.0 out of 5 stars An awesome prospect to understand the Bible. Reviewed in the United States on March 19, 2026 Format: Kindle. Dr. Koh has an eye opening way to bring you closer to Bible and following Christ. For many years because of person experience in my life I wasn’t sure if Christ loved me, cared about me, or if he was even real. Then I found this book on a different blog and decided to read it. It says 33 days but honestly it’s kinda hard to stop reading the powerful things being said. It really made me think about things differently. Thank you Dr. Koh. 5 stars (1 out of 64 Amazon Reviews, Average star rating 4.8/5.0)
Dr Andrew C S Koh

Categories
devotion

Remembering God’s Blessings: A Reflection on Psalm 103:2

Devotion: The Power of Remembrance

Scripture

Bless Yahweh my soul, and don’t forget all his benefits. Psalm 103:2 

Reflection

It’s funny how good times can easily slip your mind, but you hold onto your mess-ups and regrets for ages. It’s like the good stuff just fades away while the bad stuff lingers on. When life throws new challenges at you, it can be hard to remember all those times God has helped you out in the past.

The Psalmist reminds you with his wise words to say to yourself, “Don’t forget!” If you stick to this idea of “holy remembering,” you’ll be able to think back on that incredible day when you felt God’s love for the first time or those times when good things came along just when you needed them. 

So, if you take some time to appreciate the great things in your life, like being healthy, having good friends, and having a place to call home, you may see that the tough stuff you’re facing doesn’t seem quite as bad anymore.

The Bible encourages you to take the time to count your blessings individually and appreciate each one for what it brings to your life. In 1 Corinthians 15:57, it beautifully states, “But thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ,” reminding you of the importance of gratitude. This is a powerful verse that urges you to recognize and celebrate the victories you achieve with Christ’s help. Reflecting on this will transform your perspective and help you lead a more fulfilling life.

Thought Provoking Questions

What are three specific “benefits” or blessings God has given you in the last seven days? Write them down or say them aloud.

So, if you think about last week, there were probably a few things that stood out to you that were pretty awesome. Maybe you had some fun family time that meant a lot to you. Or you find yourself getting inspired while working on a personal project, reminding you why you enjoyed what you do. And who can forget that nice little thing a stranger did that brightened your day? These are the blessings you can totally appreciate and count them one by one.

Think of these events as memorial stones. These stones serve as remarkable memorials that represent significant milestones along your faith journey. These are far from ordinary stones. They stand for all the growth, discoveries, and hard work you’ve put into your spiritual journey. Each stone tells a unique story that reflects the evolution of your beliefs and the challenges you have overcome. They collectively stand as a testament to your unwavering commitment to your faith.

In Joshua 4:9, Joshua chose to put twelve stones right in the middle of the Jordan River, where the priests were carrying the ark of the covenant as they crossed over it on dry ground. This was a big deal because it reminded them about how faithful and powerful God was in parting the Jordan river. It’s really neat that these stones are still around today, standing tall as a reminder of the incredible history and the divine support the Israelites received. It’s a reminder for the future generations to remember those big moments from their journey into the Promised Land.

33 Days of Daily Faith

Click on this link and get a free ebook, ’33 Days of Daily Faith’, by Dr Andrew Koh

https://storyoriginapp.com/giveaways/8ee89042-ed49-11f0-9c2c-7f45f393f813

Top reviews from the United States

  • Big Mike &Tabi5.0 out of 5 stars An awesome prospect to understand the Bible. Reviewed in the United States on March 19, 2026 Format: Kindle. Dr. Koh has an eye opening way to bring you closer to Bible and following Christ. For many years because of person experience in my life I wasn’t sure if Christ loved me, cared about me, or if he was even real. Then I found this book on a different blog and decided to read it. It says 33 days but honestly it’s kinda hard to stop reading the powerful things being said. It really made me think about things differently. Thank you Dr. Koh. 1 out of 45 Amazon Reviews, Average star rating 4.9/5.0)
Dr Andrew C S Koh
Categories
book promotion book review Book Review book sales books

Walking in His Footsteps

A Pilgrim’s Journey Through the Holy Land

Video Trailer

video trailer

Description

Walk where He Walked. Feel What They Felt. Experience the Journey That Changes Everything.

Have you ever longed to visit the places where Jesus lived, taught, suffered, and triumphed?
In Walking in His Footsteps: A Pilgrim’s Journey through the Holy Land, step into the sacred geography of Scripture and discover how the land of the Bible comes alive when seen through the eyes of a pilgrim.

Through vivid storytelling, spiritual insight, and deeply personal reflection, this transformative memoir takes you along ancient paths, from the quiet hills of Galilee to the bustling streets of Jerusalem, from the Garden of Gethsemane to the empty tomb. Along the way, you’ll witness not only the historic and biblical richness of each site, but also the soul-deep impact of encountering God in the land where it all began.

Ideal for believers, seekers, pastors, or anyone yearning for a closer walk with Jesus
Rich in biblical context, spiritual reflection, and historical background
A meaningful gift for Holy Land travelers, or those who dream of going one day

Whether you’ve already been to Israel, plan to go, or simply want to walk deeper in faith, Walking in His Footsteps will inspire your heart and renew your spirit.

Come. Take the journey. Walk where He walked, and never be the same.

Top Review from the United States

5.0 out of 5 stars Pilgrim’s Journey

Reviewed in the United States on December 4, 2025

Format: Kindle

As a passionate enthusiast of history, particularly the rich tapestry of Christian history, Dr. Andrew C S Koh’s Walking in His Footsteps struck me as a compelling blend of personal memoir, spiritual reflection, and historical travelogue. Published in 2025, this nonfiction account chronicles the author’s pilgrimage through key sites in the Holy Land, from the Jordan River to the Church of the Nativity in Bethlehem. While it’s framed as a devotional journey aimed at deepening faith, it offers substantial value for history buffs by grounding biblical narratives in tangible, archaeological contexts. Koh, a physician and devout Christian, writes with sincerity and accessibility, making the book an inviting read for anyone curious about how ancient events echo in modern landscapes. The structure is straightforward and effective: after a warm preface and foreword (penned by Elder David Lim Sui Meng), the book dives into 23 chapters, each dedicated to a specific site. Koh doesn’t just describe places like the Mount of Olives, where Jesus prayed and ascended, or Qumran Caves, home to the Dead Sea Scrolls; he weaves in biblical references (primarily from the NIV), historical details, and his own experiences. For instance, in the chapter on Tabgha, the site of the miracle of the loaves and fishes he recounts the serene atmosphere by the Sea of Galilee, linking it to the Gospel accounts while noting the Church of the Multiplication’s Byzantine mosaics. Similarly, his visit to the Western Wall explores its Jewish roots and Christian resonances, touching on Roman destruction in 70 AD and ongoing excavations. These sections shine for history lovers, providing concise overviews of sites’ evolution from ancient times through Byzantine, Crusader, and Ottoman periods. What elevates the book beyond a standard guide is Koh’s personal touch. He shares moments of awe, like kneeling in the Nativity Grotto or reflecting on Elijah’s confrontation at Mount Carmel, which humanize the history. The inclusion of photographs (credited to S K Loh) and poems at chapter ends adds a visual and contemplative layer, helping readers visualize the rugged Judean deserts or the tranquil Galilee shores. As someone drawn to Christian history, I appreciated how Koh connects sites to broader themes like the Essenes’ possible role at Qumran or the interfaith dynamics at the Temple Mount without overwhelming the narrative. Virgil Walker, ★★★★★ ( 1 out of 19 Amazon rveiwes, average star rating 5/5).

Retailer link

https://buy.bookfunnel.com/o1v1ib4833

Free ebook Link

https://storyoriginapp.com/giveaways/e1fc3120-91cf-11ef-8b30-178dc4a03d6d

Dr Andrew C S Koh
Categories
devotion

Embracing the Prince of Peace for Inner Calm

Devotion

Be Not Afraid

Scripture

Peace I leave with you. My peace I give to you; not as the world gives, I give to you. Don’t let your heart be troubled, neither let it be fearful. John 14:27

Reflection

It seems like the world tries to sell you this idea of “peace,” but really, it’s just loads of distractions, you know? Nothing beats a sweet holiday or a quick solution, right? These might make you feel better for a moment, but they don’t really solve the bigger problems underneath.

It’s like just throwing some paint on a wall that’s falling apart when it actually needs major repairs, not just a quick fix. On the other side of things, Jesus offers this incredible peace that’s not just handed down to you, but is honestly a deep and meaningful gift. He reassures you with the words, “My peace I give to you.” 

Finding this peace feels like having a strong defense against all the negativity that spills over in the news and the struggles you carry with you day in and day out. 

It encourages you to understand that deep within you lies the power to make a significant choice in your life. You can let all these stress and worries pull you down into sadness, or you can choose to find the peace that surpassed all understanding. 

Take a little time today to talk about what’s bothering you and share these worries with Him. This small act of reaching out can lead to profound relief and a renewed sense of hope. Ultimately, the choice is yours to find strength and comfort in His presence.

Take hold of the triple peace that’s available to you. The peace of God that soothes your heart and soul, the peace with God that encourages trust and understanding in your relationship with Him, and the peace from God that brings comfort and reassurance when you know that God has forgiven your sins.

If you really want to find some peace in the craziness of life, it’s super helpful to think about what Psalm 46:10 says: “Be still, and know that I am God.” It’s a nice little reminder to pause and tune into something larger than yourself, especially when things get a bit crazy. When things get overwhelming or you’re feeling a bit anxious, taking a step back for a second will help you sort things out and get your head straight. Holding onto this verse will guide you towards feeling calm and confident.

Story

Tsunami

In 2004, when that terrible Bali Tsunami hit, there was a story of this incredible woman caught in the crazy waves. In that scary moment, she held on tight to her faith and started singing a song called “Hide Me Now.” The lyrics below  really gave her the strength to face the tsunami:

“When the oceans rise and thunders roar, I will soar with You above the storm. Father, You are King over the flood. I will be still and know You are God.” 

Even when it felt like the whole world was out to get her, she not only got through the tsunami but also courageously opened up about her amazing testimony of hope and strength. Her experience really shows how faith can give you power, especially in tough times.

Meditation

Take a deep breath and really soak in the here and now. As you do, say out loud and with confidence: “Lord, I accept Your peace.” 

As you take a deep breath and let it out slowly, picture the stress or worry you’re clinging to just melting away. Remind yourself, “I’m letting go of my fear.” 

You can’t overlook how important this practice is. It is such a great way to discover a sense of peace and balance within yourself. 

When you understand how significant this move is, it’s clear that its impact stretches way beyond just relaxation. It sets up a vibe in your heart where peace can thrive, leading to a stronger sense of inner calm.

Give all your worries and stress to Jesus, the Prince of Peace. He’s here to bring you comfort when life gets crazy and uncertain. When you do this, you’ll feel a wave of peace and comfort from trusting Him, which helps you face your problems with a bit more ease. 

Once you get onboard with this idea, it will totally turn your stress into calmness by allowing Him to take care of your issues. Keep in mind, He gives peace that’s way deeper than what you can understand, leading you to live a much more peaceful life.

To really find peace, you need to let the Prince of Peace take the lead in your life. If you don’t give Him control and follow His guidance, you’re not going to feel this true calm. It’s through His presence that you can create real harmony in yourself and in your world. So, embracing the Prince of Peace is key to discovering that true peace.

Isaiah 9:6,  For a child is born to us. A son is given to us; and the government will be on his shoulders. His name will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. 

Free Book

Click on this link and get a free ebook, 33 Days of Daily faith

https://storyoriginapp.com/giveaways/8ee89042-ed49-11f0-9c2c-7f45f393f813

Dr Andrew C S Koh
Categories
book promotion Book Review book review book sales books Songs Worship Songs

Whispers of Grace

Poems of Heartfelt Reflection

Video Trailer

video trialer

Description

Quiet moments. Honest prayers. Gentle truths.
Let your heart be still and let grace speak.

In a world filled with noise, Whispers of Grace offers a calming voice of hope, healing, and reflection. This beautifully crafted collection of Christian and inspirational poetry invites you into a sacred space where faith is deepened and peace is renewed.

Whether you’re navigating a season of struggle or simply seeking to draw closer to God, these poems will speak to the soul, gently reminding you of His constant presence and unchanging love. Inside this uplifting collection, you’ll find:

Poems rooted in scripture and spiritual truth
Encouragement for those facing trials or transitions
Reflections on grace, forgiveness, and God’s quiet strength
A comforting companion for prayer, journaling, or devotional time

Perfect for:

Devotional reading or quiet time

Gifts for loved ones needing encouragement

Those who enjoy faith-based poetry and reflection

Readers who crave peace, purpose, and God’s presence

Let these verses wrap around your spirit like a gentle whisper from heaven.
In every line, may you find light for your path and rest for your soul.

Top review from the United States

  • Daniel B. Lyle5.0 out of 5 stars Crisp colored images plus scintillating words inducing deep encouragement…Reviewed in the United States on February 17, 2026Format: KindleVerified Purchase
  • Read aloud they resonate in our minds
    Sparking vivid images for reconciliation
    Where depression would drag us down
    A gentle reminder of true transcendence
    Listening inwardly: pausing to reflect
    Displayed, well worth taking time to find:
    Here is the ALIGNMENT of a kind WORD
    Nature of true LOVE, powerful SEEDS
    Strewn in fertile fields of COMPASSION
    The means to firmly counteract SHAME
    GRACE underpinning productive FAITH
    Reminding us Christians of our VICTORY
    Not by worldly power but soft HUMILITY
    Key concepts eclipsing even long sermons
    Available to soothe repeatedly, so needed! ,⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ ( 1 of 32 Amazon Reviews, Average star rating 4.7/5.0).

Retailer Link

https://buy.bookfunnel.com/lypx6lspar

Free Ebook Link

https://storyoriginapp.com/giveaways/6de96620-648f-11f0-b28c-439cf3c22f74

Dr Andrew C S Koh

Categories
devotion

Triple Peace Explained

Devotion: Peace That Surpasses All Understanding

Scripture

And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your thoughts in Christ Jesus. Philippians 4:7.

Reflection

The Hebrew word for peace is shalom, and it really means a lot in Jewish culture. Shalom is often used as a friendly greeting in the Hebrew-speaking community. It’s not just a way to say hi; it’s like wishing someone peace and happiness too. When you meet someone, especially in a Jewish setting, it’s polite to say shalom to help build a nice vibe. Using this greeting can definitely brighten up the mood and strengthen your connections with people.

Usually, feeling “at peace” goes hand in hand with being happy and just feeling good about life, where everything seems to click together nicely.. Your bills are handled, your kids are doing great, your boss is happy with you, and everyone at work is getting along just fine.

According to the Bible, peace means something different. It’s this deep kind of calm that you just can’t explain. This awesome feeling of peace can just show up when you least expect it. It doesn’t let outside stuff get in the way and feels super comforting even when you’re facing challenges.

Like when you’re sitting nervously in a hospital waiting area or trying to figure out the ups and downs of your relationships. You can totally feel the benefits of this peace without needing to understand every little thing about it. It’s like a shield that helps guard you from those heavy waves of anxiety and sadness. 

The Bible explains that there are three unique kinds of peace that you can experience when you’re justified by grace, showing just how meaningful this triple peace is. 

First off, there’s the peace of God, which gives you that calm feeling and security inside. Then, you have the peace from God, showing the blessings and comfort He shares with you when you reach out to Him. Lastly, there’s peace with God, which is all about fixing that relationship between you and your Creator. This is really important for a spiritual journey that feels meaningful.

In John 14:27, Jesus tells His followers, “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you.” He’s making it clear that the peace He offers is different from what you will find in the world. Unlike the temporary and shallow peace that can come and go, His peace is deep and lasting. He encourages you not to worry and to let go of your fears. This really hits home as a soothing reminder that you can find true calm through Him.

Prayer

 Father, I’ve discovered something that really matters. I don’t need a perfect life without problems to really feel at ease and find my inner peace. 

I’m putting my energy into discovering this unique sense of peace that feels like a protective wall around my thoughts and feelings, helping me to deal with the day-to-day stuff with a little more grace and understanding. 

Instead of stressing about being perfect, I’ve decided to focus on finding the peace that helps me feel good and enjoy life to the fullest. In the end, it’s this peace that helps me face whatever the day throws at me with courage.

I can’t thank You enough for the beautiful gift of grace. It really brings this awesome peace that seems to surround me all the time. 

Your grace is far more than a mere abstract concept. It really changes how I live and gives me a wonderful sense of calm and confidence each day. Feeling forgiven brings a calm that fills my whole heart and mind that is beyond human understanding. I feel really grateful for this amazing experience that brightens up my life. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

This devotion is taken from my book, 33 Days of Daily devotion. If you like to have a free copy of this book click on the link below:

https://storyoriginapp.com/giveaways/8ee89042-ed49-11f0-9c2c-7f45f393f813

or Scan this QR code

Dr Andrew C S Koh

Categories
devotion

The Power of Forgiveness: Finding Peace Within

Devotion: Passing the Cup

Scripture

And be kind to one another, tender hearted, forgiving each other, just as God also in Christ forgave you. Ephesians 4:32.

Reflection

Imagine grace as a vibrant river that flows through you, giving you what you need, instead of being a quiet pond that stays put next to you and your feelings. 

When you finally understand the depth of God’s forgiveness to you, it will seriously alters how you feel about those who annoy, hurt, or let you down during your life. 

Just because you decide to let go of the grudge doesn’t mean you’re saying what they did to you was right or should be brushed under the rug.

You’re making a real effort to shake off the emotional baggage they gave you, just like how Christ has taken away the emotional baggage of your sins.. 

If you keep being bitter and resentful, you’re locking yourself up in a prison of your own making. Your bad vibes and thoughts hold you captive. 

When you actively choose to forgive people who had messed up with you, you’ll realize that you’re the one who ends up feeling good about it all. 

Letting go of that bitterness not only helps you ditch the anger but also opens the door to healing and becoming a better version of yourself. Ultimately, embracing forgiveness can lead to a more fulfilling and peaceful existence. 

Matthew 6:14-15 really hits the point that forgiveness matters a lot. It tells that when you forgive others, God will forgive you too. Letting go of what others have done to you can be tough, but if you do, God will be happy to forgive you as well. Holding onto those bad feelings keeps you from receiving God’s grace, so it’s better to release them.

Meditation

Reflect on a moment when someone did you dirty, leaving a mark on your heart and mind. Spend a moment to connect with all those feelings around that painful experience and really feel how heavy that grudge is.

Envision yourself in a nice chill moment where you’re finally letting go of that heavy “debt” you’re carrying, sharing it with God and honestly saying, “I choose to forgive because You forgave me first, and I really want that grace to shine in my life.” 

Allow yourself to truly experience the relief that comes from letting go of anger and resentment by embracing the strength and change that forgiveness brings. 

Taking a leap like this lets you let go of any bitterness that’s been weighing you down and helps you realize just how grateful you should be for those amazing moments that life has thrown your way.

Click the link below and get a free ebook “Ephesians: Every Spiritual Blessing in the heavenly places in Christ”

https://storyoriginapp.com/giveaways/ac8d13f6-7931-11ec-afb2-93d74e05b123

Dr Andrew C S Koh

Categories
devotion

Break Free from the Spiritual Treadmill

Finding peace in God’s love

Scripture

 But God commends his own love toward us, in that while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.Romans 5:8

Reflection

Have you ever felt like you’re on this exhausting spiritual treadmill, where you’re just running and running, hoping to win God’s approval? Ever find yourself believing that if you just put in more effort with prayer, dive into the scriptures more, or be super nice to everyone, it may help you feel more loved by God? 

You couldn’t be more wrong if you think you can earn His love by doing certain things. He loves you just the way you are, right here, right now, with no strings attached. What really counts for Him is your true feelings and being genuine, not just by putting on a show or pretending. His love is always there, steady and real, and He just wants you to see that.

If you check out Romans 5:8, you’ll see a powerful reminder of how vast God’s love is for you. It really drives home the idea that His love doesn’t waver, especially when you feel like you don’t deserve it. The verse says, “while we were yet sinners,” which means Christ gave Himself for you even when you were imperfect. This really hits home, doesn’t it? Your value isn’t based on the stuff you do, it’s all about His endless love. In the end, it’s a comforting assurance that you are valued more than you can imagine, no matter your flaws.

He didn’t just sit around hoping you’d figure everything out and get back on track before helping you. Instead, He came right into your chaos. You don’t need to jump through a bunch of hoops or do anything crazy to get your place at His table; it’s all set up for you with love. Your salvation is a wonderful gift you get just because of grace through faith in Christ. You don’t deserve it, you can’t earn it and you can’t make it happen on your own, like it says in Ephesians 2:8-9.

So, today, just take a minute to hit pause and take a few deep breaths. Decide to walk with Him. This way, you can really savor the journey together. I totally get how easy it is to get swept up in the daily grind, but when you choose to walk with Him, you can enjoy every step of the way. Today, skip the hectic stuff and just hang out, sharing stories, fears, failures, victories, and successes with Him. Focus on the love of God as you tackle life’s highs and lows together with Him.

Thought-Provoking Questions

If God loves you just as you are, like no matter what, how do will this shake up your prayers or those deep talks you have with Him? 

Do you think you will share more of what is on your mind and heart with Him, if His love for you is always solid and unconditional? 

Do you think sharing with Him will help you feel more at peace and safe?

Understanding who He really is will make a huge difference in how you relate to Him personally. When you take the time to know about someone, you’ll feel a closer connection. Understanding who God is will enhance and enrich your relationship with Him and make it more meaningful. When all’s said and done, being close to God will help you connect and walk with Him.

.The Bible highlights how important God’s love is. It says that the perfect love of God can actually push away fear, like it mentions in 1 John 4:18. This verse says that when you feel God’s perfect love, it wipes away all your fears and worries, letting you live your life to the fullest. God’s perfect love helps you deal with all your worries and fears, creating a feeling of calm and safety. Consequently, understanding and embodying this perfect love is essential for overcoming fears in your life.

Dr Andrew C S Koh