Devotions Archives | Page 6 of 135 | New Rocky Creek Baptist Church

Peace in the Middle East

Posted on Oct 8, 2025 in Devotions |

Introduction: At last, there is a PEACE PLAN on the table. Will it work? Many nations are backing it, including America. In fact, it was birthed after Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu met with President Donald Trump at the White House on September 29, 2025. Prior to this, Israel has been in a major war with Hamas, Hezbollah, and the Houthi’s for the last two years. Who could forget Oct. 7, 2023?

Surprisingly, look at the nations that have come together in unity requesting Israel to cease fighting. That is, if Hamas agrees to releasing all of the hostages—dead or alive. Could this be a “Prototype” of the “Peace Plan” with Israel and the Antichrist?

1. Daniel foretold about this Prophetic Event yet to be fulfilled! (Dan. 9:26, 27) – “And after threescore and two weeks shall Messiah be cut off, but not for himself: and the people of the prince that shall come shall destroy the city and the sanctuary; and the end thereof shall be with a flood, and unto the end of the war desolations are determined. And he shall confirm the covenant with many for one week: and in the midst of the week he shall cause the sacrifice and the oblation to cease, and for the overspreading of abominations he shall make it desolate, even until the consummation, and that determined shall be poured upon the desolate.”

Did you notice the “he” in verse 27? That is referring to the Antichrist. Eventually, he will “confirm” a covenant {PEACE PLAN} with ISRAEL. Howbeit, it will only last for the first 3 1/2 years of the 7-year TRIBULATION. Afterwards, great persecution and martyrdom will break out against ISRAEL. By the way, the rider on the WHITE HORSE that comes galloping on the scene with a bow in his hand {but no arrows? Political ruler} and a crown on his head during the beginning of tribulation appears to be none other than the ANTICHRIST. Through war, and a mark, he will conquer the world politically, economically, and even religiously. Daniel was able by the grace of God to look into the Prophetic future and lay out God’s plan for Israel. That included 490 years, of which 483 years have been fulfilled exactly as he prophesied. Incredible, huh?

Keep in mind, he was writing while exiled in Babylon {before the Church was established}; therefore, his message was strictly and solely for the JEWS and more specifically the city of JERUSALEM. Please note that today we can have PEACE with GOD through a personal relationship with JESUS CHRIST (Rom. 5:1). Have you experienced that?

2. Paul spoke concerning this Prophetic Event yet to be Fulfilled! (1 Thess. 5:2,3; 2 Thess. 2:4) – “For yourselves know perfectly that the day of the Lord so cometh as a thief in the night. For when they shall say, Peace and safety; then sudden destruction cometh upon them, as travail upon a woman with child; and they shall not escape.”
“Let no man deceive you by any means: for that day shall not come, except there come a falling away first, and that man of sin be revealed, the son of perdition; Who opposeth and exalteth himself above all that is called God, or that is worshipped; so that he as God sitteth in the temple of God, shewing himself that he is God.”

Here again, did you notice the “PEACE and SAFETY” PLAN? This deceptive agenda {PEACE PLAN with ISRAEL} will only last for the first 3 1/2 years, even though during that time, wars {Ezekiel 38,39} against Israel will take place along with the WRATH and JUDGMENT of JESUS CHRIST upon the world in the form of seven SEALS and TRUMPETS. In light of the antisemitism that is spreading like wildfire around the world, can you see where the stage is being set for a PEACE PLAN to protect the JEWS from her enemies?

3. Jesus will establish His Peace Plan! (Luke 1:32,33; Dan. 7:14; Isa. 2:4; 2 Thess. 2:7,8; Rev. 20:1-9) – “And I saw thrones, and they sat upon them, and judgment was given unto them: and I saw the souls of them that were beheaded for the witness of Jesus, and for the word of God, and which had not worshipped the beast, neither his image, neither had received his mark upon their foreheads, or in their hands; and they lived and reigned with Christ a thousand years.”

From eternity past, the LAMB of GOD was predestined to RULE and REIGN in His SOVEREIGNTY over the world. “Thy KINGDOM COME”! Are you prepared?

Conclusion: Yet for right now, this present-day PEACE PLAN with ISRAEL and her enemies is a PRECURSOR to the final COUNTDOWN to ETERNITY. One day in the near future, the PRINCE of PEACE will carry the GOVERNMENT of this world on His shoulders, and don’t forget… His KINGDOM there will be no end—with PEACE forevermore!

Love y’all,

Dr. Randy Reese

Oct '25

Jesus Our Healer, Deliverer, and Favorer

Posted on Oct 7, 2025 in Devotions |

Oct '25

Introduction: Do you need a Bright Light on a Dark Night? Have you ever gone through a “Dark Night”? All of us probably have at one time or another. What do you do? How can you endure? Is there a Light to show you the way during a dark night? Right here in this passage of Scripture, the Psalmist, though he faced a Dark Night, God gave him a Bright Light.

1. The Lord is our HEALER! (Psa 30:1–2) – “I will extol thee, O LORD; for thou hast lifted me up, and hast not made my foes to rejoice over me. O LORD my God, I cried unto thee, and thou hast healed me.”

Do you need HEALING—spiritual, emotional, mental, relational, physical healing? The word “heal” is רָפָא (raw-faw’), which means to cure, (cause to) heal, physician, repair. Everybody needs healing; it is just a matter of time, due to different seasons that each of us go through, including hardship and adversity. But isn’t it good to have that BLESSED ASSURANCE that our Lord Jesus has promised to be with us every step of the way? Do you need Him to be your “Healer”?

2. The Lord is our DELIVERER! (Psa 30:3–4) – “O LORD, thou hast brought up my soul from the grave: thou hast kept me alive, that I should not go down to the pit. Sing unto the LORD, O ye saints of his, and give thanks at the remembrance of his holiness.”

Praise the Lord! Not only is Jesus our HEALER, but also He is our DELIVERER! Jesus Christ DELIVERS us from the power of Sin, the strongholds of Satan, and the evil influence of our Society. By making us overcomers, we are set free to serve and honor Him. Do you need Deliverance?

3. The Lord is our FAVORER! Hope for your Future! (Psa 30:5) – “For his anger endureth but a moment; in his favour is life: weeping may endure for a night, but joy cometh in the morning.”

I love to have the “favor” of God. What does that mean? The word is רָצֹון. It literally means acceptable or delightful. Another meaning of the word has to do with desire, or even (good) pleasure. It is a great thing to have God’s desire. In fact, we are told to “delight ourself in the Lord,” and He would give the desires of our heart.

Conclusion: Now that we’ve seen that Jesus Christ is everything we need, will you trust Him? Will you “thank Him” for being your HEALER, DELIVERER, and FAVORER?

Love y’all,

Dr. Randy Reese

Oct '25

Good Purposes out of Bad Circumstances

Posted on Oct 6, 2025 in Devotions |

Oct '25

Introduction: Have you ever wondered how anything “good” can come out of “bad” circumstances? There is only one way. Look at things from God’s perspective. If we lose sight of His will or purpose, then we can easily fall prey to discouragement. Honestly, are you feeling down because of things going south? This passage of Scripture should bring relief to those who are weary or feeling overloaded. Climb the stairs to a higher point of view in the light of “setbacks.”

1. Outward pressure brings about an inward perseverance! (Rom. 5:3) – “And not only so, but we glory in tribulations also: knowing that tribulation worketh patience.”

This tribulation needs to be defined. It is θλῖψις. The word has to do with anguish, even persecution or perhaps trouble. The word “pressure” fully explains it. Are you feeling anguish? What about troubled? How can you have hope? Keep reading.

2. After the producing of inward perseverance, character is formed! (Rom. 5:4) – “And patience, experience; and experience, hope.”

As you climb higher over the troubled waters of discouragement, this word “experience” must not be overlooked. But what does it mean? The word is δοκιμή, which means proof, proven character, or lastly proven worth. To simplify, it means that our Lord uses troubles and trials, yea, pressures in our life to build perseverance which turns into character. Character counts! Therefore, as the Master Potter, our Lord molds and makes us into His image—yield to His hand. And yes, He uses the spinning of the wheel, the constant pressure on the clay to fashion it into something both beautiful and useful.

3. The end result is Hope—achieved when the unbeliever sees Hopelessness! (Rom. 5:5) – “And hope maketh not ashamed; because the love of God is shed abroad in our hearts by the Holy Ghost which is given unto us.”

Now that we have traveled down the highway of hope, change your attitude, which will alter your altitude. Fly higher! Rise above. Be an Overcomer.

Conclusion: Do you see how “good purposes” come out of “bad circumstances”? What about your present circumstances? Are you facing tribulation? Are you persevering? Do others witness godly character being developed in you? Stay hopeful, because Jesus has a purpose while you are going through pressure.

Love y’all,

Dr. Randy Reese

Oct '25

The Jury on Jesus

Posted on Oct 3, 2025 in Devotions |

Oct '25

Introduction: The Jury is out. Was Jesus Christ really God? Some say that He was, others say that He was not God. Where is the proof? How can we know? You must decide. Either He was Who He said He was, or He was a liar, a lunatic, a legend, or Lord.

The bottom line is either He was a MAD MAN, a BAD MAN, or the GOD MAN.

Actually, that is one of the reasons that the apostle Paul was led by the Spirit of God to write the epistle to the Colossian believers. By the way, that includes Christians today.

The text before us is the following: “Who hath delivered us from the power of darkness, and hath translated us into the kingdom of his dear Son: In whom we have redemption through his blood, even the forgiveness of sins: Who is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of every creature: For by him were all things created, that are in heaven, and that are in earth, visible and invisible, whether they be thrones, or dominions, or principalities, or powers: all things were created by him, and for him.”

1. What has Jesus done for those who trust Him? Taken “Out of” brought “Into”! (Col. 1:13–14) – “Who hath delivered us from the power of darkness, and hath translated us into the kingdom of his dear Son: In whom we have redemption through his blood, even the forgiveness of sins.”

Be sure that there are only two kingdoms—LIGHT and DARKNESS. That means that there are only two Kings…KING JESUS vs. Subtle Satan. In which kingdom do you belong? By the way, the word “delivered” is ῥύομαι, which means rescued, or set free. Have you been “set free”?

I love the word “redemption.” It is the word ἀπολύτρωσις. This word actually has to do with releasing, or paying a ransom in full. Does that make sense? Jesus has PAID our sin DEBT in full through His blood, releasing the payment we owed by paying it HIMSELF! Subsequently, we go free!

2. Who was Jesus? (Col. 1:15) – “Who is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of every creature.”

Speaking of the person of Jesus Christ, here the reference is “the image” of the invisible God. Meaning the invincible God became the visible God seen in the person of Jesus Christ. The Ancient of Days became the Infant of Days.

Along that line, the word “image” is εἰκών, which means likeness, or representative. In other words, Jesus was the “exact representation” of God in the flesh. The Word became flesh (John 1:14). So, since Jesus was declared to be the “visible” God, it seems to be crystal clear that He deserves allegiance and loyalty. Are you giving Him His rightful place as God?

3. How do you know that Jesus was God? (Col. 1:16) – “For by him were all things created, that are in heaven, and that are in earth, visible and invisible, whether they be thrones, or dominions, or principalities, or powers: all things were created by him, and for him: And he is before all things, and by him all things consist.”

Another evidence that demands attention concerning Jesus Christ is listed here unmistakably; namely, that He “created” all things! Therefore, only God created all things, meaning He is Creator God. He deserves worship and praise because of His credentials as God. Is He Lord of your life?

Conclusion: The verdict is in. JESUS CHRIST was, and is, and ever shall be GOD!

You must decide and believe! Do you believe? Of course you do, right? Can you take these Scriptures and explain them to someone who is in doubt about Jesus being God? Go and tell somebody.

Love y’all,

Dr. Randy Reese

Oct '25

Three Responses to Charlie Kirk’s Assassination

Posted on Oct 2, 2025 in Devotions |

Oct '25

Introduction: Really, what should be our {Christian} response to the Charlie Assassination, including the memorial? After praying and seeking our Lord’s face on the matter, our response should be threefold, and in this order.

1. A Call to WITNESSING! (Acts 6:15) – “And all that sat in the council, looking stedfastly on him, saw his face as it had been the face of an angel.”

Stephen was bold. He was focused. He had grit. Did you notice as you read the text that he was not afraid? Fearless, wouldn’t you say? His message was timely, truthful, and tormenting to those listening. Luke, inspired by the Holy Ghost, writes that it “cut” straight to the heart!

Even though the crowd listening tried to stop up their ears from hearing, they could not escape the penetrating and convicting words as he unloaded the Word of God. There was no way of avoiding the arrows of God’s righteousness. They were stunned, pricked, and exposed. That meant there were only two responses… repent or revolt. The latter was chosen.

However, in the midst of persecution came a mighty conversion! One named Saul, who participated in the murder and stoning of a Spirit-filled witness, was eventually forever changed. Paul would later become a flaming missionary who turned the world upside down by the power of God!

2. A Call of WARNING! (Acts 7:51–52) – “Ye stiffnecked and uncircumcised in heart and ears, ye do always resist the Holy Ghost: as your fathers did, so do ye. Which of the prophets have not your fathers persecuted? and they have slain them which shewed before of the coming of the Just One; of whom ye have been now the betrayers and murderers.”

God’s wrath and judgment is on the horizon. His impending doom is inevitable. His Word will accomplish its purpose. While the wheels of God’s retribution may roll slowly, nevertheless, they are on track.

Do you know of anybody who is standing on the tracks of the wrath of the Lamb? Warn them. Talk with them. Persuade them before it is eternally too late.

3. A Call for WATCHING! (Acts 7:55–60) – “But he, being full of the Holy Ghost, looked up stedfastly into heaven, and saw the glory of God, and Jesus standing on the right hand of God, And said, Behold, I see the heavens opened, and the Son of man standing on the right hand of God. Then they cried out with a loud voice, and stopped their ears, and ran upon him with one accord, And cast him out of the city, and stoned him: and the witnesses laid down their clothes at a young man’s feet, whose name was Saul. And they stoned Stephen, calling upon God, and saying, Lord Jesus, receive my spirit. And he kneeled down, and cried with a loud voice, Lord, lay not this sin to their charge. And when he had said this, he fell asleep.”

Are you WATCHING for Jesus? Thank God, He is watching for you! In fact, someone said that JESUS CHRIST stood up to CHEER Stephen on as he was fulfilling his Father’s Will. John the beloved writes, “…be thou faithful unto death, and I will give thee a crown of life,” (Rev. 2:10). Welcome to your New Home!

Conclusion: So now that we have established our response of Witnessing, Warning, and Watching, which way will you respond?

Love y’all,

Dr. Randy Reese

Oct '25

Long Temper vs Short Temper

Posted on Oct 1, 2025 in Devotions |

Oct '25

Introduction: Is your temper LONG or SHORT? Is it a battle or what? Have you lost your temper lately? Or really, have you found it??? Who or what is it that causes you to “lose it”? Do you get mad at yourself? Well honestly, outside of the GRACE of GOD all of us are prone to have a short fuse. Because of that, we should pray for each.

1. Do you have a “LONG TEMPER or SHORT TEMPER”? (Col. 1:9–11) – “For this cause we also, since the day we heard it, do not cease to pray for you, and to desire that ye might be filled with the knowledge of his will in all wisdom and spiritual understanding; That ye might walk worthy of the Lord unto all pleasing, being fruitful in every good work, and increasing in the knowledge of God; Strengthened with all might, according to his glorious power, unto all patience and longsuffering with joyfulness.”

Did you notice the two words “patience” and “longsuffering”? The word “patience” (ὑπομονή), which means endurance or steadfastness; whereas, the word “LONGSUFFERING” (μακροθυμία), which according to one scholar means long-tempered—the opposite of short-tempered. Quite a contrast, huh? This speaks volumes, doesn’t it?

What is it that gets your “GOAT”? Is it when you are criticized? When you are accused? When people do not agree with you? When things are out of your control? When you’re driving in traffic? When you are waiting at the checkout?

Conclusion: Remember, your testimony is at stake. Mothers, fathers, husbands, wives—any and most all Christians can find themselves having a short fuse, all depending on their circumstances. If you are reading this right now and saying, “not me,” please do not get overconfident. Let the right circumstances or events happen and then discover “the flesh is weak, but the Spirit is strong”!

So truthfully, at times, you may “lose it” (temper) or “find it,” but either way, if you do, acknowledge it, confess it, and make it right (1 John 1:9). That way our Lord Jesus is glorified: “If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.” Praise the Lord!

Love y’all,

Dr. Randy Reese

Sep '25

Knowledge, Experience, Wisdom

Posted on Sep 30, 2025 in Devotions |

Sep '25

Introduction: Please mark that. That is the proper order. Think about it with our children and grandchildren. We give them “knowledge.” “Don’t do this. Do this, etc.” While “Knowledge” is good and needful, without experience there would be no “Wisdom.” If you are like most Christians then you are praying for “wisdom.” However, it seems our Lord uses these sequence of tools to build “wisdom.” So climbing the ladder to wisdom begins with “knowledge.”

1. Did you notice that KNOWLEDGE comes from the Word of God comes first? (Col. 1:9–10) – “For this cause we also, since the day we heard it, do not cease to pray for you, and to desire that ye might be filled with the knowledge of his will in all wisdom and spiritual understanding; That ye might walk worthy of the Lord unto all pleasing, being fruitful in every good work, and increasing in the knowledge of God.”

Keeping the “First things first” is teaching a child right from wrong. We have the Scriptures to lay down the groundwork. In other words, “KNOWLEDGE” is learned through the Bible; i.e., knowledge about God, who He is, what is His purpose, etc. By the way, the word “KNOWLEDGE” is ἐπίγνωσις, which means true knowledge. That in itself presupposes there is a false knowledge. So then, we must get and give ἐπίγνωσις—“true knowledge” about Jesus Christ from the WORD of GOD. Are you reading it? Do you take time daily?

2. Did you KNOW that SPIRITUAL understanding comes from EXPERIENCE by the Holy Spirit of God? (Col. 1:9–10) – “For this cause we also, since the day we heard it, do not cease to pray for you, and to desire that ye might be filled with the knowledge of his will in all wisdom and spiritual understanding; That ye might walk worthy of the Lord unto all pleasing, being fruitful in every good work, and increasing in the knowledge of God.”

Walking worthy comes from making mistakes and learning from our blunders. Otherwise, how would we KNOW what pleases our Lord? One answer is because the Holy Spirit convicts us when we displease our Lord. Does that make sense? So then, EXPERIENCE in life for the CHRISTIAN is facilitated by the HOLY SPIRIT of GOD.

Bottom line: first KNOWLEDGE, then EXPERIENCE.

3. Finally, after gaining KNOWLEDGE from the Word of God and EXPERIENCE from the Holy Spirit of God, then we are imparted WISDOM from the living God! (Col. 1:9–10) – “For this cause we also, since the day we heard it, do not cease to pray for you, and to desire that ye might be filled with the knowledge of his will in all wisdom and spiritual understanding; That ye might walk worthy of the Lord unto all pleasing, being fruitful in every good work, and increasing in the knowledge of God.”

Do you remember the proper order? KNOWLEDGE + EXPERIENCE = WISDOM. In other words, because of our adoption into the family of God, our Heavenly Father through His Wisdom imparts to us His WISDOM. Really, technically speaking, JESUS becomes our WISDOM (1 Cor. 1:30–31). Do you agree that we all need WISDOM?

Conclusion: So the next time you think about “trying to tell your loved one something,” remember, after “Knowledge” from the Word of God comes “Experience” from the Holy Spirit of God, and then finally we become “wise” with godly “Wisdom” because of our living God. Amen, and amen!

Love y’all,

Dr. Randy Reese

Sep '25

Christianity without Change?

Posted on Sep 29, 2025 in Devotions |

Sep '25

Introduction: Can someone be FORGIVEN without FOLLOWING Jesus Christ? Is there such a thing as having a RELIGION without a RELATIONSHIP? Perhaps you have known or know someone who wants to “GO to HEAVEN” when they die but does NOT want to do things God’s way in order to get there. Such is the case before us in today’s devotion. What would you say? How would you have handled this situation? Think back to conversations that you have had in the past with someone else about eternal life and going to heaven after death. Let’s learn from this lesson from the Master Teacher and Savior of the world concerning true conversions versus false bargainings.

1. There will be those SEARCHING but not SERIOUS! (Mark 10:17) – “And when he was gone forth into the way, there came one running, and kneeled to him, and asked him, Good Master, what shall I do that I may inherit eternal life?”

Wow! Imagine someone RUNNING to you and pleading with you about BEING SAVED! Most of us would be overtaken with emotions to help whoever it was in this desperate situation, helping them get relief quickly—the sooner the better. Right? But not Jesus. Why not? Because He knew what was in this man’s heart.

Lesson to learn: It is not what is on the OUTSIDE that really matters, rather what is on the INSIDE. Check it out.

2. As a WITNESS we should confront others with the TRUTH that all have missed the mark according to the Word of God! (Mark 10:18–19) – “And Jesus said unto him, Why callest thou me good? there is none good but one, that is, God. Thou knowest the commandments, Do not commit adultery, Do not kill, Do not steal, Do not bear false witness, Defraud not, Honour thy father and mother.”

God’s law is like a mirror. It shows all of our flaws. And we have them. But please note, the law does not fix them. Grace and truth came through Jesus Christ. Truth that we are sinners and truth that He is the only SAVIOR and LOVER of our soul. Forgiveness comes through His REDEEMING blood.

3. There will be those who are BROKEN DOWN and seeking freedom but not willing to BREAK FREE from SIN! (Mark 10:20–22) – “And he answered and said unto him, Master, all these have I observed from my youth. Then Jesus beholding him loved him, and said unto him, One thing thou lackest: go thy way, sell whatsoever thou hast, and give to the poor, and thou shalt have treasure in heaven: and come, take up the cross, and follow me. And he was sad at that saying, and went away grieved: for he had great possessions.”

I love how JESUS looked right through him to his heart and saw his real idol. And then called him to take up a CROSS {death to self} and follow Him. The “quick fix” faded. The “emotional quest” was erased. The “man-made attempt” was exposed. The “ulterior motives” were uncovered. The “self-made gods” were revealed. Whereas, the path of righteousness was presented. The way for removal of guilt and shame was laid out. The way to heaven was clear.

Conclusion: Sadly, this wealthy young man did not want to TURN from his sin completely. Instead, his GOLD was his god and his silver his savior. Howbeit, for clarification, there are other gods besides money today; i.e., the god of SELF, plus many other idols that take over to POSSESS and RESIDE in a person’s heart—besides permitting JESUS CHRIST to take control.

So beware of a CHRISTIANITY without CHRIST, a RELIGION without a RELATIONSHIP, a CONVERSION without a CHANGE, a GOOD WORKS SALVATION without a GRACE through FAITH REGENERATION… just saying.

And the Church said…

Love y’all,

Dr. Randy Reese

Sep '25

Staying in God’s Will

Posted on Sep 26, 2025 in Devotions |

Sep '25

Introduction: How can we as believers STAY in GOD’S WILL? Better yet, how can we KNOW GOD’S WILL? Still further, how can we do GOD’S WILL? Have you ever wondered about these questions? Today’s devotion will discuss some of these most important topics concerning the Christian life.

1. Walking in God’s WILL! (Col. 1:9) – “For this cause we also, since the day we heard it, do not cease to pray for you, and to desire that ye might be filled with the knowledge of his will in all wisdom and spiritual understanding.”

The first word to analyze is “filled.” It is πληρόω, which means made full, or completed, made complete or to fully, completely fill. In other words, Paul’s inspired prayer for the believers in the Church of Colossae was that they would be “filled”—completely full. But with what? Next, he explains to both them and us today: “…..ye might be filled with the knowledge of his will in all wisdom and spiritual understanding.”

Interesting to note, the word “knowledge” is ἐπίγνωσις, which means fully know or even discernment. Keep in mind, this particular Church had gnostics who were those going around claiming they had superior knowledge to know things no one else knew. Obviously, they were false teachers. So, real knowledge and wisdom comes from the Word of God, not from those who claimed intellectual superiority. So to walk in God’s WILL would require believers to be “filled” with God’s truth.

2. Walking with God’s WISDOM! (Col. 1:10) – “That ye might walk worthy of the Lord unto all pleasing, being fruitful in every good work, and increasing in the knowledge of God.”

The word “knowledge” in verses 9 and 10 is ἐπίγνωσις. It means true knowledge, heavenly insights. So to walk in wisdom is to know Who God is and to be in His Will.

3. Walking in Jesus Christ’s WORTHINESS! (Col. 1:11,12) – “Strengthened with all might, according to his glorious power, unto all patience and longsuffering with joyfulness; Giving thanks unto the Father, which hath made us meet to be partakers of the inheritance of the saints in light.”

Being “partakers” {share} because of His Grace gives every believer in Jesus Christ an inheritance in Him. Besides that, did you notice the two words “patience” and “longsuffering”? The word “patience” (ὑπομονή) means endurance or steadfastness; whereas, the word “longsuffering“ (μακροθυμία), according to one scholar, means long-tempered, which is the opposite of short-tempered. Quite a contrast, huh? This is not only Paul’s prayer but should be ours as well.

Conclusion: So our Lord’s desire and Paul’s prayer is for the Colossians, as well as us, to know God’s Will, walk in God’s Wisdom, and be made worthy because of Jesus Christ’s Worthiness.

Love y’all,

Dr. Randy Reese

Sep '25

Salty Christians

Posted on Sep 25, 2025 in Devotions |

Sep '25

Introduction: Jesus said that we are to be the “SALT” of the earth. But remember, He did not say “SUGAR”! Also, don’t forget, SALT that remains in the shaker does not do any good!! It has to be poured out. Are you willing to be poured out? Why did Jesus use the illustration concerning SALT? Here may be a few reasons.

1. SALT makes food “taste better”! (Matt 5:13) – “Ye are the salt of the earth: but if the salt have lost his savour, wherewith shall it be salted? it is thenceforth good for nothing, but to be cast out, and to be trodden under foot of men.”

Let’s face it. Most food tastes a little better with a pinch or two of SALT. Do you agree? Bottom line: With SALTY Christians sprinkled around in this old world, it makes it taste soooo much better!

2. SALT “preserves meat longer”! (Matt 5:13) – “Ye are the salt of the earth: but if the salt have lost his savour, wherewith shall it be salted? it is thenceforth good for nothing, but to be cast out, and to be trodden under foot of men.”

Have you ever tried preserving meat for a long while? Proven fact: SALT kills bacteria that can grow on meat. You get the point. SALTY Christians can kill evil in the world by combatting it with TRUTH! How are you doing?

3. SALT “heals faster”! (Matt 5:13) – “Ye are the salt of the earth: but if the salt have lost his savour, wherewith shall it be salted? it is thenceforth good for nothing, but to be cast out, and to be trodden under foot of men.”

Isn’t it interesting that when growing up as a boy while on vacation at the beach and getting a cut or scrape, the SALT water from the ocean would HEAL it a lot faster? This world is sin-sick! However, SALTY Christians bring healing like nothing else will.

4. SALT “keeps healthier”! (Matt 5:13) – “Ye are the salt of the earth: but if the salt have lost his savour, wherewith shall it be salted? it is thenceforth good for nothing, but to be cast out, and to be trodden under foot of men.”

Harvard Health Publishing noted the following: “The average adult’s body contains 250 grams (g) of sodium—less than 9 ounces, or about the amount in three or four saltshakers.”

Did you know that? In comparison, the Church which is identified as the “body of Christ” is made up of SALTY Christians. But sadly, some believers stay in the shaker and never get out of it. Are you getting out? Speaking of getting out of the SALT shaker, our Lord has blessed and thrust His Church {New Rocky Creek} out of the shaker. What a blessing!

Conclusion: For example, recently, NRC participated in a community-wide prayer vigil for America in the light of the assassination of Charlie Kirk; “The Until That Day” ministries is ongoing on the radio both in Jackson GA as well as Chattanooga TN weekly on every Sunday for over ten years, along with the NRC YouTube ministry on a weekly basis. Plus, New Rocky Creek has the privilege of throwing out some SALT in the Monticello newspaper on a monthly basis, which circulates to about 4 to 5 thousand residents.

New Rocky Creek is blessed to record livestream every Sunday morning {because of our great NRC team}; NRC women’s ministry WMU are actively involved in the community on a monthly basis getting messages and {goodies} into all of the schools in Jasper Co, both public and private, in addition to reaching out and blessing the Sheriff Department, Fire Department, first responders, etc., and much more. Individual believers in NRC, along with the social media {team} platform, are pouring SALT everywhere throughout the world which all points to JESUS CHRIST as the Savior of the world.

Praise the Lord! To GOD be the Glory!! SALTY CHRISTIANS at NRC are making a huge difference!! Keep it up, until Jesus calls us home, or we meet Him in the air!!!

Love y’all,

Dr. Randy Reese