Category: From Our President

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Carnality vs. Spiritual Maturity: A Devotional Excerpt from Unshaken

Faith is not just about what we believe—it’s about how we live. As you work through these devotionals, my prayer is that you will grow stronger, stand firmer, and live bolder for Christ. No matter what comes, you can remain unshaken because your foundation is in Him. – John O’Malley

Below is an excerpt from Bro. John O’Malley’s book, Unshaken: Strengthening Your Faith. If you would like to read the book in its entirety, please click here.

1 Corinthians 3:1-3

“And I, brethren, could not speak unto you as unto spiritual, but as unto carnal, even as unto babes in Christ. I have fed you with milk, and not with meat: for hitherto ye were not able to bear it, neither yet now are ye able. For ye are yet carnal: for whereas there is among you envying, and strife, and divisions, are ye not carnal, and walk as men?”

Learn About It

Paul addresses the Corinthians with a rebuke—they are not growing in spiritual maturity. Though they had been Christians for some time, they were still acting like spiritual infants. He describes them as carnal, meaning they were living according to their fleshly desires rather than walking in the Spirit.

Paul explains that he had to give them milk instead of meat—he had to teach them the basics of faith because they were not ready for deeper spiritual truths. The evidence of their spiritual immaturity was clear: they were filled with envy, strife, and division. Instead of growing in love, unity, and selflessness, they were acting just like the unsaved world.

Carnality is a serious issue. A believer may be saved but still live in a way that reflects worldly attitudes rather than the character of Christ. Paul’s warning is clear—if we are not growing spiritually, we will remain weak and immature, unable to handle the deeper things of God.

Apply It to Me

Paul’s words challenge us to examine our own spiritual maturity. Just because we have been Christians for many years does not mean we are spiritually mature.
•Am I growing in spiritual maturity, or do I still struggle with envy, strife, and division?
•Do I crave spiritual nourishment from God’s Word, or am I content with just the basics?
•Are my actions more like those of the world, or do I reflect the character of Christ?

Spiritual maturity requires intentional effort—feeding on God’s Word, seeking wisdom, and allowing the Holy Spirit to transform our hearts. The goal is to move beyond spiritual infancy and grow into Christlikeness.

Talk to God about It

Lord, I don’t want to remain spiritually immature. Help me to hunger for Your Word, to put away childish attitudes, and to walk in the Spirit. Show me where I have been carnal in my thinking or actions, and help me to grow in faith, love, and wisdom. Teach me to desire the deeper things of Your truth. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Act on It

Identify one step of spiritual growth you need to take this week. It could be memorizing Scripture, spending more time in prayer, or surrendering an area of your life where you’ve been spiritually immature. Make a commitment to take that step today.

John O’Malley

If this article has been an encouragement to you, you can email Bro. O’Malley to let him know.

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Dealing with Division in the Church: A Devotional Excerpt from Unshaken

Faith is not just about what we believe—it’s about how we live. As you work through these devotionals, my prayer is that you will grow stronger, stand firmer, and live bolder for Christ. No matter what comes, you can remain unshaken because your foundation is in Him. – John O’Malley

Below is an excerpt from Bro. John O’Malley’s book, Unshaken: Strengthening Your Faith. If you would like to read the book in its entirety, please click here.

1 Corinthians 1:10-13

“Now I beseech you, brethren, by the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that ye all speak the same thing, and that there be no divisions among you; but that ye be perfectly joined together in the same mind and in the same judgment. For it hath been declared unto me of you, my brethren, by them which are of the house of Chloe, that there are contentions among you. Now this I say, that every one of you saith, I am of Paul; and I of Apollos; and I of Cephas; and I of Christ. Is Christ divided? was Paul crucified for you? or were ye baptized in the name of Paul?”

Learn About It

Paul’s words to the Corinthians reveal a major issue in their church—division and factionalism. The believers were separating into groups based on who had taught them the gospel. Some were claiming loyalty to Paul, others to Apollos, some to Peter (Cephas), and another group even claimed Christ in an exclusive manner. This division was not doctrinal—all these men preached the same Christ. The problem was that people were letting personal preference and pride cause division in the church.

Paul makes a heartfelt plea in the name of Jesus that they should be unified in mind and judgment. This does not mean they must agree on every minor issue, but that they should have a shared purpose—Christ and His gospel.

The rhetorical questions in verse 13 are powerful: “Is Christ divided? was Paul crucified for you? or were ye baptized in the name of Paul?” Paul redirects their focus to who truly matters—Jesus Christ. No human leader, no matter how gifted, should take the place of Christ as the central focus of the church.

Apply It to Me

Divisions in the church are still common today. While we may not claim allegiance to Paul or Apollos, we often let denominations, leadership styles, worship preferences, or minor doctrinal differences divide us.
• Do I allow personal preferences to create barriers between me and other believers?
• Am I more loyal to a pastor, a ministry style, or a church tradition than to Christ Himself?
• Do I seek unity in my church, or do I contribute to division by gossiping, criticizing, or refusing to work with others?

Unity in the church does not mean compromising truth, but it does mean keeping Christ at the center. Division comes when we focus on ourselves, our opinions, or our preferences more than on Jesus.

Talk to God About It

Heavenly Father, I desire to be a peacemaker in Your church. Forgive me for times when I have allowed my preferences, pride, or opinions to create division. Help me to seek unity, to build others up, and to keep my focus on Jesus, the true foundation of my faith. Teach me to encourage peace and harmony while remaining firm in Your truth. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Act on It

This week, take a step toward church unity. Reach out to someone with whom you have had disagreements or tensions and seek to encourage them in Christ. Pray for your church to remain focused on Jesus rather than personal differences.

John O’Malley

If this article has been an encouragement to you, you can email Bro. O’Malley to let him know.

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Refocusing on Our Identity in Christ: A Devotional Excerpt from Unshaken

Faith is not just about what we believe—it’s about how we live. As you work through these devotionals, my prayer is that you will grow stronger, stand firmer, and live bolder for Christ. No matter what comes, you can remain unshaken because your foundation is in Him. – John O’Malley

Below is an excerpt from Bro. John O’Malley’s book, Unshaken: Strengthening Your Faith. If you would like to read the book in its entirety, please click here.

Refocusing on Our Identity in Christ

1 Corinthians 6:19-20

“What? know ye not that your body is the temple of the Holy Ghost which is in you, which ye have of God, and ye are not your own? For ye are bought with a price: therefore glorify God in your body, and in your spirit, which are God’s.”

Learn About It

Paul writes to the Corinthians to remind them of a powerful truth: they belong to God. Corinth was a city filled with immorality, and many of the believers had come out of a lifestyle of sin. Yet some still struggled with understanding their new identity in Christ.

Paul’s words are strong: “Ye are not your own.” The reason? They were bought with a price—the precious blood of Jesus Christ. Just as a slave in the ancient world could be purchased and transferred to a new master, every believer has been redeemed by Christ. This means that our lives are no longer about pursuing personal desires, but about glorifying God.

Paul also gives an important reminder: “Your body is the temple of the Holy Ghost.” Under the Old Testament law, the temple was the place where God’s presence dwelled. But now, God’s Spirit lives inside every believer. This truth carries a responsibility—because God dwells in us, we must live in a way that honors Him.

Apply It to Me

The world teaches that we are in control of our own bodies and choices. The message is often: “Do what makes you happy.” But Paul challenges this thinking by reminding us that we are not our own.

Think about how this applies to daily life:

    • How do you treat your body—not just in purity, but in health and discipline
    • Do your words and actions reflect someone who belongs to Christ?
    • When making choices, do you ask: “Does this glorify God?”

Living with the mindset that we belong to God changes everything. It means that our time, resources, and even personal desires must be surrendered to Him. Instead of asking, “What do I want?” we must ask, “What does God want for me?”

Talk to God About It

Father,
Thank You for purchasing me with the blood of Jesus. I confess that at times, I have lived as though I belong to myself. Help me to remember that I am Yours. Teach me to honor You in my body, my choices, and my actions. Let my life reflect Your holiness and bring glory to Your name. Give me strength to resist temptation and to live as a vessel for Your Spirit. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Act on It

Choose one specific way to glorify God in your body this week—whether through purity, self-discipline, healthier choices, or resisting temptation. Write it down and ask God to help you stay committed to it.
John O’Malley

If this article has been an encouragement to you, you can email Bro. O’Malley to let him know.

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Refocusing on Servanthood in Ministry: A Devotional Excerpt from Unshaken

Faith is not just about what we believe—it’s about how we live. As you work through these devotionals, my prayer is that you will grow stronger, stand firmer, and live bolder for Christ. No matter what comes, you can remain unshaken because your foundation is in Him. – John O’Malley

Below is an excerpt from Bro. John O’Malley’s book, Unshaken: Strengthening Your Faith. If you would like to read the book in its entirety, please click here.

Refocusing on Servanthood in Ministry

1 Corinthians 4:2

“Moreover it is required in stewards, that a man be found faithful.”

Learn About It

Paul describes himself and other ministers as stewards of the mysteries of God (1 Corinthians 4:1). A steward in biblical times was a servant entrusted with managing his master’s household or resources. His responsibility was not ownership, but faithful management.

In the same way, believers—especially those serving in ministry—are called to be faithful stewards of what God has entrusted to them. This includes the gospel, spiritual gifts, time, and influence. The primary requirement of a steward is not talent, intelligence, or popularity, but faithfulness.

Paul emphasizes that it is God, not people, who ultimately judges faithfulness (1 Corinthians 4:3-4). Others may misunderstand or criticize our efforts, but what matters is that we are obedient to the Lord. Faithfulness means continuing to serve, even when it feels unnoticed or unappreciated.

Apply It to Me

Faithfulness in ministry is often tested in seasons of discouragement. Have you ever felt like your efforts didn’t matter? Maybe you’ve served in church, raised your children in the faith, or shared the gospel with someone, yet you didn’t see immediate results. Paul reminds us that God sees and rewards faithfulness, even when others don’t.
Being a steward means recognizing that everything we have belongs to God. Our talents, our time, our influence—none of it is truly ours. The question is, are we managing these gifts faithfully?
    • Are you consistent in the responsibilities God has given you?
    • Do you serve with integrity, even when no one is watching?
    • Are you more concerned about pleasing God or gaining approval from others?

Faithfulness is measured not in moments of excitement, but in the quiet, everyday obedience to God’s calling.

Talk to God About It

Lord,
Thank You for entrusting me with the privilege of serving You. Help me to be a faithful steward, not seeking recognition but simply desiring to please You. In moments of discouragement, remind me that You see every effort and that faithfulness is what matters most. Keep my heart focused on Your approval, not the opinions of others. Strengthen me to continue serving, even when I don’t see immediate results. May I be found faithful in all You have called me to do. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Act on It

Identify one area of your life where you need to be more faithful—whether it’s in your prayer life, serving in church, sharing the gospel, or another responsibility. Commit to being consistent in that area this week, trusting that God values your faithfulness.

John O’Malley

If this article has been an encouragement to you, you can email Bro. O’Malley to let him know.

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Refocusing on the Judgment Seat of Christ: A Devotional Excerpt from Unshaken

Faith is not just about what we believe—it’s about how we live. As you work through these devotionals, my prayer is that you will grow stronger, stand firmer, and live bolder for Christ. No matter what comes, you can remain unshaken because your foundation is in Him. – John O’Malley

Below is an excerpt from Bro. John O’Malley’s book, Unshaken: Strengthening Your Faith. If you would like to read the book in its entirety, please click here.

Refocusing on the Judgment Seat of Christ

1 Corinthians 3:13

“Every man’s work shall be made manifest: for the day shall declare it, because it shall be revealed by fire; and the fire shall try every man’s work of what sort it is.”

Learn About It

Paul reminds the Corinthian believers that everything they do for the Lord will one day be tested. The “day” he refers to is the Judgment Seat of Christ—a future time when believers will stand before Christ, not for punishment, but for rewards.

Paul uses the metaphor of fire to describe how God will evaluate a believer’s works. Gold, silver, and precious stones represent things done for Christ with pure motives, while wood, hay, and stubble represent things done with selfish ambition or earthly priorities (1 Corinthians 3:12). Fire refines gold and silver but consumes wood and hay. Similarly, only what is truly done for Christ will last.

This verse is a sobering reminder that while salvation is by grace through faith (Ephesians 2:8-9), our works still matter. Every believer will one day give an account of their life—not to determine their salvation, but to reveal what they did with the opportunities God gave them.

Apply It to Me

It’s easy to get caught up in the temporary things of life—success, recognition, or personal comfort. But Paul urges us to think eternally. What are we building? Will our efforts stand the test of fire, or will they burn away?
Take a moment to consider:
•Are you serving God with pure motives, or are you doing things for recognition?
•Are you investing in things that will last for eternity, like sharing the gospel, discipling others, and growing in Christ?
•Or are you focusing only on things that are temporary—career, possessions, or entertainment?
God doesn’t judge success the way the world does. He looks at faithfulness. One day, He will evaluate not just what we did, but why we did it. Will your works remain when tested by fire?

Talk to God About It

Father,
Thank You for the reminder that my life will one day be tested by fire. Help me to live with eternity in mind, focusing on what truly matters. Show me where I have been building with “wood, hay, and stubble” instead of gold, silver, and precious stones. Teach me to serve You with pure motives, not for human approval but for Your glory. May my life be pleasing to You so that, on that day, I may hear, “Well done, thou good and faithful servant.” In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Act on It

Examine your priorities. Make a list of three things you are investing your time in. Ask yourself, “Will this matter in eternity?” If not, consider how you can shift your focus toward things that have lasting value.

John O’Malley

If this article has been an encouragement to you, you can email Bro. O’Malley to let him know.

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Refocusing on the Power of God’s Wisdom Over Human Wisdom: A Devotional Excerpt from Unshaken

Faith is not just about what we believe—it’s about how we live. As you work through these devotionals, my prayer is that you will grow stronger, stand firmer, and live bolder for Christ. No matter what comes, you can remain unshaken because your foundation is in Him. – John O’Malley

Below is an excerpt from Bro. John O’Malley’s book, Unshaken: Strengthening Your Faith. If you would like to read the book in its entirety, please click here.

Refocusing on the Power of God’s Wisdom Over Human Wisdom

1 Corinthians 2:5

“That your faith should not stand in the wisdom of men, but in the power of God.”

Learn About It

Paul knew that the Corinthians were surrounded by a culture that valued human wisdom. Corinth was influenced by Greek philosophy, where eloquence and intellect were seen as the highest forms of knowledge. The Corinthians, like many today, were tempted to measure truth by human reasoning rather than divine revelation.

Paul reminds them that their faith should not rest in the wisdom of men—the ever-changing philosophies and ideas of the world—but in the power of God. Human wisdom has limits. It changes with time, culture, and personal opinions. But God’s wisdom is eternal, unshakable, and rooted in His character.

Paul’s preaching was not designed to impress people with clever arguments or philosophical debates. Instead, he relied on the demonstration of the Spirit and of power (1 Corinthians 2:4). The effectiveness of the gospel does not come from human skill or intellectual appeal—it comes from God Himself.

This verse challenges us to examine what we are truly depending on: Are we leaning on human understanding, or are we trusting in the wisdom and power of God?

Apply It to Me

In today’s world, many people rely on science, logic, or personal experience to define truth. While knowledge and reasoning have their place, they cannot replace the wisdom of God. Have you ever felt pressured to make decisions based on popular opinions rather than biblical truth?

When difficulties arise, where do you turn first? Do you rely on worldly advice, self-help books, or cultural trends? Or do you seek wisdom in God’s Word? The challenge for every believer is to build their faith on God’s unchanging wisdom, not on the shifting opinions of society.

The way we live reveals where our faith truly stands. If we say we trust in God’s wisdom, yet we make choices based only on human reasoning, we are not fully relying on Him. Faith means choosing to trust what God says—even when it contradicts the wisdom of the world.

Take a moment to reflect: What areas of your life are you tempted to handle with human wisdom instead of trusting in God?

Talk to God About It

Heavenly Father,
Thank You for giving me the wisdom of Your Word. I confess that at times, I have relied on my own understanding instead of trusting You. I have looked to the world’s wisdom for answers rather than seeking Your truth. Help me to build my faith on You alone. Teach me to trust in Your wisdom, even when it doesn’t make sense to my human mind. Let my decisions, my words, and my life reflect my faith in Your power. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Act on It

Think of a current situation where you are unsure of what to do. Instead of relying on your own reasoning, spend time praying and searching the Scriptures for God’s wisdom. Write down a verse that applies to your situation and commit to following God’s direction rather than human opinions.

John O’Malley

If this article has been an encouragement to you, you can email Bro. O’Malley to let him know.

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Refocusing on the Power of the Gospel: A Devotional Excerpt from Unshaken

Faith is not just about what we believe—it’s about how we live. As you work through these devotionals, my prayer is that you will grow stronger, stand firmer, and live bolder for Christ. No matter what comes, you can remain unshaken because your foundation is in Him. – John O’Malley

Below is an excerpt from Bro. John O’Malley’s book, Unshaken: Strengthening Your Faith. If you would like to read the book in its entirety, please click here.

Refocusing on the Power of the Gospel

1 Corinthians 1:18

“For the preaching of the cross is to them that perish foolishness; but unto us which are saved it is the power of God.”

Learn About It

The Corinthian church struggled with worldly wisdom. Corinth was a city filled with philosophers who prided themselves on deep thinking and persuasive speech. Many in the city viewed the message of the gospel—the idea that salvation comes through a crucified Savior—as foolishness.

Paul contrasts two groups: “them that perish” and “us which are saved.” The world sees the cross as a weak and illogical idea, something only the simpleminded would believe. To them, the thought that a man dying a criminal’s death could bring salvation is absurd. The Greeks sought wisdom through philosophy, and the Jews expected a powerful, conquering Messiah, not a suffering Servant.

Yet, Paul boldly declares that for those who believe, the cross is “the power of God.” The very thing the world calls weak is the means by which God brings the strongest display of His power—saving lost sinners. The gospel does not need embellishment, intellectual argument, or cultural adaptation. It stands as God’s power to redeem, transform, and give eternal life.

The question is not whether the gospel is powerful, but whether we recognize its power.

Apply It to Me

It’s easy to be influenced by the world’s thinking. Have you ever felt hesitant to share your faith because you feared someone would think it was foolish? Maybe you’ve met people who insist that Christianity is outdated or irrelevant. Paul reminds us that this reaction is nothing new. The world always sees the gospel as foolish—until the moment their hearts are changed by it.

Instead of being discouraged when people reject the gospel, we should take comfort in knowing that salvation is God’s work, not ours. Our responsibility is to preach the cross, not to make it acceptable to the world. We don’t need to dress up the gospel or make it more appealing; we simply need to proclaim it faithfully.

Think about how you view the gospel personally. Do you see it as the power of God in your life? Or has it become something you take for granted? When was the last time you reflected on how the gospel has changed you?

Talk to God About It

Father,
Thank You for the power of the gospel. I confess that at times I have been timid in sharing it, fearing the opinions of others. Help me to remember that the gospel is not something to be ashamed of but something to proclaim boldly. Give me the confidence to trust in Your power, not my own, when I share my faith. Let my life reflect the truth that Jesus Christ is the only way to salvation. Strengthen my faith in the message of the cross, and let me never take it for granted. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Act on It

This week, take a moment to share the gospel with one person—whether through a conversation, a text, or even a social media post. Don’t worry about their reaction; simply be faithful in proclaiming the message. Trust that God’s power is at work, even when you can’t see it.

John O’Malley

If this article has been an encouragement to you, you can email Bro. O’Malley to let him know.

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Refocusing on Unity: A Devotional Excerpt from Unshaken

Faith is not just about what we believe—it’s about how we live. As you work through these devotionals, my prayer is that you will grow stronger, stand firmer, and live bolder for Christ. No matter what comes, you can remain unshaken because your foundation is in Him. – John O’Malley

Below is an excerpt from Bro. John O’Malley’s book, Unshaken: Strengthening Your Faith. If you would like to read the book in its entirety, please click here.

Refocusing on Unity

1 Corinthians 1:10 “Now I beseech you, brethren, by the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that ye all speak the same thing, and that there be no divisions among you; but that ye be perfectly joined together in the same mind and in the same judgment.”

Learn About It

Paul begins his letter to the Corinthians by addressing one of their biggest struggles—division. Corinth was a city filled with competing philosophies, social classes, and personal ambitions. Unfortunately, these same divisions had crept into the church, leading believers to form factions based on their preferred leaders: Paul, Apollos, Cephas (Peter), or even Christ (1 Corinthians 1:12).

Paul’s plea is urgent: he beseeches them. This word means he is strongly urging or even begging them to set aside their differences. But he doesn’t just make an emotional appeal—he calls on the authority of “the name of our Lord Jesus Christ” as the foundation for unity. True Christian unity is not about personal preference but about being “perfectly joined together” in the truth of Christ.

This does not mean every believer will always agree on every issue. Instead, Paul is calling for oneness in heart, purpose, and doctrine, particularly in matters of faith and practice. The phrase “same mind and same judgment” refers to the importance of shared convictions and a common understanding of Christ’s teaching. Unity is not achieved by ignoring truth, but by rallying around it.

Apply It to Me

We often see division in churches today, just as in Corinth. Sometimes it happens over doctrine, but more often, it arises from personalities, preferences, and pride. Have you ever found yourself frustrated with someone in the church, not because of a biblical issue, but because they have a different opinion or approach?

Paul challenges us to examine whether our attitude promotes unity or fuels division. Are we more concerned with being “right” than with being Christlike? Are we quick to dismiss someone just because they see things differently? The key to unity is not uniformity—it’s humility.

Think about your own interactions within the church. Do your words and actions reflect the unity Paul speaks of? Or do they create unnecessary division?

Talk to God About It

Heavenly Father,

Thank You for calling me into fellowship with Your people. I know that, at times, my pride, opinions, or frustrations can get in the way of the unity You desire for Your church. Forgive me for any ways I have contributed to division, whether through my words, actions, or attitudes. Help me to focus on what truly matters—Your truth, Your love, and Your mission. Teach me to listen with grace, speak with wisdom, and pursue unity with a heart that honors You. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Act on It

Think of one person in your church whom you may have disagreed with or had tension with. This week, make an effort to pray for them daily. If possible, encourage them with a kind word, a text, or a note—especially if they don’t expect it.

John O’Malley

If this article has been an encouragement to you, you can email Bro. O’Malley to let him know.

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The Art of Listening

By John O’Malley

This year, I will be releasing a new book called Ministering to the Wounded. For my article this month, I am sharing a chapter from the book titled “The Art of Listening.”

After 40 years of ministry, I have found that listening is crucial.

In a world full of noise, listening is one of the rarest gifts we can offer. I struggle with completing someone’s thought in my mind so I can prepare my answer. For those who minister to the wounded, listening is not a passive act—it is a sacred ministry. It requires emotional restraint, spiritual sensitivity, and selfless love. Before Scripture can be applied wisely, ears must be opened humbly.

Listening is the first act of Christlike compassion. Jesus often asked questions—not because He lacked knowledge, but because He valued presence over performance. To listen is to enter someone’s suffering without trying to fix them. It reflects the heart of a God who “is nigh unto them that are of a broken heart” (Psalm 34:18).

1. The Value of Listening: Listening affirms dignity. It says, “Your story matters. You are not invisible.” It gives the wounded space to breathe and their burdens a place to land. Authentic listening slows down solutions and honors the process of trust.

2. The Patience Required: Listening is not efficient. It will interrupt your schedule. It may stretch your emotions. But love that listens is love that lingers. Proverbs 18:13 warns, “He that answereth a matter before he heareth it, it is folly and shame unto him.” Quick answers are rarely wise ones.

3. What Biblical Listening Looks Like: Biblical listening is:
• Quiet (James 1:19): “Let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak…”
• Compassionate (Romans 12:15): “Weep with them that weep.”

• Discerning (Proverbs 20:5): “Counsel in the heart of man is like deep water; but a man of understanding will draw it out.”

Listening is not agreement, but understanding. It is not silence without discernment—it is restraint guided by the Spirit. When spoken in season, listening allows space for the Holy Spirit to work through the Scriptures.

To care well, start by listening well. Put down your notes. Resist the urge to fix. Hear the hurt. Hold the silence. Let their pain speak before you speak of healing. Listening may feel small, but it often opens the door to the most incredible work God wants to do.

What Can We Offer?:
      • Resist the urge to interrupt or mentally prepare a response while someone else is sharing.
      • Reflect back what you heard to ensure understanding (“What I hear you saying is…“).
      • Pray before offering advice. Without Him, we can do nothing.
      • Ask the Holy Spirit for wisdom to know when to speak—and when to stay present.

“He that hath ears to hear, let him hear.” —Matthew 11:15

John O’Malley

If this article has been an encouragement to you, you can email Bro. O’Malley to let him know.

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I Need an Estimate

By John O’Malley

“For the LORD is good…” (Psalm 100:5).

How many times have you needed a service performed in your life and sought an estimate? First, you have to find a provider of that service. Then you must find out the price. You may read reviews online, ask some trusted friends, and ask how long the vendor has been in business. You may gain confidence in a service provider with each mention of a friend, review you read, and advertisement you see. These all help you gain confidence in the service provider for your needs.

As in the illustration above, when we want a service performed we seek an estimation of both a vendor and his service reliability. The psalmist gives us his estimation of both the person and perception of the Lord: “the LORD is good.” The psalmist speaks from his experience with God. His opinion is not just subjective. He writes with authority as God inspired him to write these words.

“The LORD is good.” What confirmation! What consolation! What comfort!

The psalmist, in our focus phrase, invokes the name of God, which makes us think of God’s self-existing eternal state of being. Notice the spelling of the word “LORD.” Do you see the capital letters? The word’s meaning has to do with Him being self-existing. The God who has always been and will always be is the Lord that is good. This is the same word God used to introduce Himself to Moses in Exodus 6:2-3.

We considered the psalmist’s estimation of the person of God. Now, we should consider the psalmist’s estimation of God’s quality. The psalmist estimates the value of God as good. Good does not seem high enough to describe God.

Advertisers use superlatives in their estimations of their services and products. Advertisers say “good” is just okay. Advertisers tell us we need spectacular. We need awesome. We need amazing. However, God told The psalmist to use the word “good.”

When compared to modern adjectives, “good” seems inadequate. When David used this word, he used it in the sense that he estimated God as the best. He valued Him as beautiful and better. He knew Him to be both fair and the finest. He is God. Using the word “good” is the highest estimation He could give to He who is altogether lovely. David’s estimation of God is He is perfect.

When we seek an estimate, we want to know the length the vendor has been in business. We want to know the quality of their work. We use these elements to determine whether we enlist them to help us. The psalmist’s words speak to these two elements of an estimation. The Lord has been in business since before time. The Lord is good!

What is your estimation of God? Have you found Him good? He is always good. Try your estimation of God right now. Write down three ways you know God has been good to you and the world at large.

John O’Malley

If this article has been an encouragement to you, you can email Bro. O’Malley to let him know.