Excel Still More

Reach Out: Please include your email and I will get back to you. Thanks!

II Corinthians 4

Paul emphasizes that his ministry arises from God’s mercy, and he refuses to distort or manipulate God’s word. Instead, he preaches Christ openly, even though the gospel remains hidden to those blinded by the god of this world. He reminds the Corinthians that he is merely a servant, proclaiming Jesus as Lord, with God’s light shining in his heart. Paul describes the Christian life as a treasure in jars of clay, illustrating that the power comes from God, not from human strength. Though believers face affliction, they are never crushed; though persecuted, they are never abandoned. Suffering reflects Christ’s own, revealing His life within them. Paul encourages them to focus on what is unseen and eternal rather than on temporary struggles, knowing that their present hardships prepare them for eternal glory.

Our faith is not about personal strength but about God's power working through us. Like fragile jars of clay, we may feel weak, yet God’s light shines through us by His grace. When we face trials, we must remember that affliction is temporary, but God’s glory is eternal. This chapter challenges us to keep our focus on Christ rather than our struggles. Instead of being discouraged by hardships, we should trust that God is using them to shape us for His purpose. By fixing our eyes on what is unseen, on His eternal promises, we find strength to endure. As we live for Him, our lives should reflect His light, showing the world that true hope is found in Jesus.

Kind Father, thank You for shining Your light into our hearts through Jesus Christ. When we feel weak, remind us that Your power is made perfect in our frailty. Help us to endure trials with faith, knowing that our suffering is temporary, but Your glory is eternal. Keep our eyes fixed on what is unseen, trusting in Your promises rather than our circumstances. Let our lives reflect Your truth, shining hope into a world in need. Strengthen us to persevere, knowing that You are renewing us daily. May we glorify You in all things, relying on Your incredible strength.

Thought Questions:

-       Why is the gospel “veiled to those who are perishing”? How do you ensure the gospel remains clear in your eyes and heart?

-       By carrying the life and death of Christ in you, there is strength in all circumstances. What helps you carry this spirit of faith on a daily basis?

-       Is it difficult to keep your focus on the unseen and the eternal when things are difficult in this life? How do you refocus on heavenly things?

Reach Out: Please include your email and I will get back to you. Thanks!

II Corinthians 3

The apostle Paul explains he does not require letters of recommendation because the Corinthians themselves stand as proof of his ministry. Their transformed lives are letters from Christ, inscribed not on stone but on human hearts by the Spirit. He then contrasts the old covenant, which brought death through the law, with the new covenant, which imparts life through the Spirit. The law had glory, yet the ministry of the Spirit possesses even greater glory. Paul clarifies that through Christ, the veil that obscures people's understanding of God is lifted. Where the Spirit of the Lord is present, there is freedom in Jesus Christ. Paul encourages the Corinthians to embrace this freedom and transformation that comes through the Spirit rather than holding on to the old way of the law.

For centuries, Jews could access God only through the laws of the Old Testament. This “ministry of death,” with its fading glory, was inscribed on stone and served as an unattainable goal for all who sought justification through it. The arrival of Christ and the new covenant has brought grace and hope to all who hear and believe. We now engage in a “ministry of the Spirit,” a “ministry of righteousness,” that will never fade away. This law of liberty is not written on stone but in our hearts, motivating us to live holy lives with grateful and joyful spirits. Our mission as workers for Christ is now to help the gospel be inscribed upon the hearts of others. 

Glorious Lord, thank You for writing Your truth on our hearts and giving us new life through Your Spirit. Help us to rely not on our own strength but on the freedom found in Christ. Remove any veil that blinds us from fully knowing You, and transform us daily into the image of Jesus. May our lives be living letters that reflect Your love, grace, and glory to those around us. Teach us to walk in the power of the Spirit, embracing the freedom You have given us. Let us shine with ever-increasing glory as we grow closer to You.

Thought Questions:

-       Paul loved those he taught, calling them letters of Christ written in his heart. Have you ever converted someone? How is that relationship special?

-       How does contrasting the old covenant with the new covenant increase your gratitude for Jesus Christ? How can you show thankfulness?

-       Are you being transformed into the image of Jesus? How does the Holy Spirit help you change your life to be more like the Savior?

Reach Out: Please include your email and I will get back to you. Thanks!

Daily Bible Devotional (Volumes 1 and 2):

Amazon - (paperback, hardcover, and Kindle)

Sponsors: 
Jon Cunningham, Owner, Cunningham Financial Group
Website:  www.cunninghamfinancialgroup.com   
Phone:  205-326-7364

Tyler Cain, Senior Loan Officer, Statewide Mortgage
Websites: https://statewidemortgage.com/
https://tylercain.floify.com/
Phone: 813-380-8487

I'd like to simply include two passages of scripture today that are featured in our episode:  Psalm 126 and Ecclesiastes 11:1-6.  Please give them a follow-up read.

Psalm 126

1 When the Lord brought back [a]the captives of Zion,
We were like those who dream.

2 Then our mouth was filled with laughter
And our tongue with joyful shouting;
Then they said among the nations,
“The Lord has done great things for them.”

3 The Lord has done great things for us;
We are joyful.

4 Restore our fortunes, Lord,
As the [b]streams in the [c]South.

5 Those who sow in tears shall harvest with joyful shouting.

6 One who goes here and there weeping, carrying his bag of seed,
Shall indeed come again with a shout of joy, bringing his sheaves with him.

Ecclesiastes 11:1-6

11 Cast your bread on the surface of the waters, for you will find it [a]after many days. 2 Divide your portion to seven, or even to eight, for you do not know what misfortune may occur on the earth. 3 If the clouds are full, they pour out rain on the earth; and whether a tree falls toward the south or toward the north, wherever the tree falls, there it [b]lies. 4 One who watches the wind will not sow and one who looks at the clouds will not harvest. 5 Just as you do not know the path of the [c]wind, and how bones are formed in the womb of the [d]pregnant woman, so you do not know the activity of God who makes everything.

6 Sow your seed in the morning and do not [e]be idle in the evening, for you do not know whether [f]one or the other will succeed, or whether both of them alike will be good.

Reach Out: Please include your email and I will get back to you. Thanks!

II Corinthians 2

Paul explains that he is postponing his trip to Corinth to avoid causing great sorrow. He writes this letter, urging the church to forgive and restore a repentant member who had previously been disciplined, emphasizing that excessive punishment could lead to despair. Paul reminds them that forgiveness strengthens unity and prevents Satan from exploiting their division. He then describes his ministry, explaining how God guides believers in a triumphant mission to spread the fragrance of Christ everywhere. For those who will be saved, the message is received openly as a welcomed scent, while those who reject it perceive the gospel as the smell of death. For Paul and believers, the responsibility remains to keep sharing the truth sincerely with everyone. 

The most essential mission in life is to share the gospel of Jesus Christ with the world. Many may not listen, but the Word of God is powerful when it touches receptive hearts. Our goal, like that of the apostles, is to genuinely share the Lord with others. Satan’s mission is to hinder us. He uses many tactics, one of which is to keep God’s people focused on each other in unproductive ways. Sometimes, this means continuing to punish, judge, or remain distant from a Christian long after they have repented. This creates division and serves the adversary’s will. We must forgive our fellow believers for any offenses so we can unite in Christ and engage in His important work. 

Benevolent God, thank You for Your mercy and forgiveness. Teach us to extend that same grace to others, restoring those who repent with love instead of judgment. Help us to stand firm against the enemy’s schemes, uniting in Christ rather than allowing division to take root. May our lives spread the fragrance of Christ, bringing life to those who seek You. Keep our hearts sincere as we share the gospel, not for personal gain but for Your glory. Lead us in triumph, reminding us that we are called to reflect Your love and the truth about Jesus in the world. 

Thought Questions:

-       Why does Paul emphasize the importance of forgiving a repentant believer, and how important is it to do so fully and with openly shown love?

-       How does a lack of forgiveness or affection toward a brother give Satan opportunities? What will he try to do in those situations?

-       What does it mean to be “a fragrance of Christ to God” among the world? How will that assignment affect your daily behavior and attitude?

Reach Out: Please include your email and I will get back to you. Thanks!

II Corinthians 1

Paul begins his second letter to the Corinthians by praising God as the source of all comfort during times of affliction. He shares his own sufferings, explaining that trials teach reliance on God rather than on oneself. Paul assures the Corinthians that just as they participate in suffering, they will also receive God’s comfort. He recalls a life-threatening experience in Asia, where he “despaired of life” but was delivered through God’s power. Paul emphasizes the importance of prayer, illustrating how the appeals to God by saints contributed to his deliverance. He then defends his integrity, stating that his words of exhortation and sacrificial actions are sincere and guided by Christ. Paul concludes by affirming that God has sealed believers with the Holy Spirit, ensuring their eternal security in Christ.

Our God is the Father of mercies and the God of all comfort. He cares for His children and feels for those enduring trials and losses. He offers eternal comfort through a relationship with Jesus Christ. God also provides comfort through His power to improve circumstances over time, as well as through the support and love of fellow believers. We can face all trials with confidence if we trust in God's abiding grace and the power of prayer to seek His mercy and assistance. To cultivate true hope, Paul taught the people about the loving Father, the reigning Son Jesus Christ, and the Holy Spirit within us. This remains the most essential and transformative message we can share with others.  

Mighty Father, we thank You for being the God of all comfort who strengthens us in every trial. When we face suffering, help us rely on You rather than ourselves. Remind us that just as Christ suffered, we too will encounter hardships, but through Him, we also receive untouchable and abiding hope. Teach us to share the comfort You provide with others, so we may encourage those in need. Strengthen our faith and remind us that Your promises are always true in Christ. Seal our hearts with Your Spirit and guide us to walk in trust and gratitude daily. 

Thought Questions:

-       What does it mean to say your Father is the “God of all comfort”? How does He help you maintain confidence and peace in times of affliction? 

-       How does suffering teach you to rely on God over yourself? Is that a valuable process? And how does that affect your view of trials?

-       Paul states God always comes through on His promises (v20). What are some of those promises that fill you with hope in all circumstances?

Reach Out: Please include your email and I will get back to you. Thanks!

Good morning! Thank you for taking a few minutes to listen. If you are interested in the Daily Bible Devotional, you can find it at the links below:
Amazon - (paperback, hardcover, and Kindle)
Spiritbuilding.com - (premium quality paperback)
Youtube Video Introducing the Content
Feel free to reach out with any questions: [email protected]

I Corinthians 16

The apostle Paul concludes his letter with practical guidance and personal remarks for the church in Corinth. He encourages them to participate in the collection for the Jerusalem church, outlining a systematic and generous weekly approach to giving. He then shares his travel plans, expressing a desire to visit Corinth if the Lord allows, and mentions Timothy and Apollos, urging the church to welcome and support them. Believers are challenged to stand firm in their faith, act courageously, and do everything with a spirit of love. Paul acknowledges the contributions of faithful individuals like Stephanas and his household, urging the church to honor those who serve. The conclusion warns those who might abandon their love for the Lord, while also announcing grace for those who remain steadfast in God’s love. 

A consistent theme throughout the New Testament is charity from believers to alleviate the burdens of their fellow believers. The church in Corinth set aside funds each week to ensure they could assist the brethren in Jerusalem at the right time. This practice continues in churches today, and this text serves as a key passage explaining why we collect contributions on the first day of the week to be ready to help needy Christians wherever they may be. Disciples helping and encouraging one another, whether through monetary support, spiritual instruction, or simply listening, is evident throughout the first-century church. This should be a central mission in our lives and proves that we are abiding in the love of Jesus. 

Benevolent Father, we know it brings You joy to see Your children helping and supporting one another. Whether through Sunday contributions or individual acts of service, employ us to assist Your people with their needs. Please create opportunities today for us to give of ourselves to meet the needs of a brother or sister in Christ. Discipline us to be strong in our resolve for Your purposes, filled with love toward everyone we encounter in Jesus’ name. In a world focused on self, teach us to embody strong, Christ-like love while refreshing the spirits of our fellow workers in the kingdom. 

Thought Questions:

-       Do you believe it is important to contribute on the first day of the week? Is it equally important that such contributions prioritize needy saints?

-       Saints are encouraged to welcome Christians who visit them. Should our work for disciples include hospitality to new faces who come our way?

-       Paul notes that suppliers in the kingdom “have refreshed my spirit and yours.” If giving refreshes the spirit of another, should we do it often?

Reach Out: Please include your email and I will get back to you. Thanks!

Good morning! Thank you for taking a few minutes to listen. If you are interested in the Daily Bible Devotional, you can find it at the links below:
Amazon - (paperback, hardcover, and Kindle)
Spiritbuilding.com - (premium quality paperback)
Youtube Video Introducing the Content
Feel free to reach out with any questions: [email protected]

I Corinthians 15

The resurrection of Jesus is the cornerstone of the Christian faith. He died for our sins, was buried, and rose on the third day as prophesied in the Scriptures and witnessed by many. Some doubt His resurrection. If Christ has not risen, faith is futile, and humanity remains burdened by sin. However, Christ has been raised, guaranteeing a resurrection to eternal life for all who trust in Him. What will that look like? Paul compares the resurrection to a seed that transforms into a new body, emphasizing that the perishable will be replaced by the imperishable. Christ's return culminates in eternal victory over sin and death. Disciples have victory in Jesus now and forever. Believing this, they must remain steadfast and immovable, never losing heart in serving the risen Lord. 

The gospel is inspirational and resides in the heart of every believer. We believe that Jesus died, was raised on the third day, and appeared to hundreds of witnesses. We believe the tomb is empty and that our Savior has forever defeated death. If these things are not true, then all who live as Christians are truly a pitiful lot. However, the evidence is overwhelming both in history and in scripture. He has been raised, and that means we too will be raised after death, or changed at His return. Our physical bodies will perish, but new spiritual bodies will emerge and live forever. In times of trial in the flesh, our hope for life rests in the Lord Jesus Christ, and we remain steadfast in our allegiance to Him. 

Glorious Lord, thank You for the victory over sin and death through the resurrection of Jesus Christ. Thank You for the testimony that affirms His victory, filling us with hope for our future in Him. Help us to stand firm in faith, holding tightly to the hope of eternal life. We will labor for You, knowing that our efforts are not in vain. Teach us to grow in boldness, sharing the gospel and reflecting the understanding of Christ’s victory. Thank You for the assurance that our King has defeated death and that our allegiance to Him will reap eternal reward. 

Thought Questions:

-       Why do you believe in the resurrection of Jesus Christ? Are you prepared to present your case for Christ and His victory to friends and family?

-       What will happen the moment that Christ returns? How does that information put perspective into your day and priorities in life?

-       What does it mean to be “steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord”? How are you demonstrating those qualities?

Reach Out: Please include your email and I will get back to you. Thanks!

Good morning! Thank you for taking a few minutes to listen. If you are interested in the Daily Bible Devotional, you can find it at the links below:
Amazon - (paperback, hardcover, and Kindle)
Spiritbuilding.com - (premium quality paperback)
Youtube Video Introducing the Content
Feel free to reach out with any questions: [email protected]

I Corinthians 14

Paul refocuses on spiritual gifts, stressing the importance of using these abilities to strengthen the church. He points out that prophecy is superior to speaking in tongues because prophecy edifies, encourages, and comforts believers. Tongues, without interpretation, only benefit the speaker. The brethren are urged to prioritize the edification of the church, especially during worship gatherings. Assemblies should be orderly, with contributions like songs, teachings, or prophecies shared to promote understanding and unity. Gifts such as tongues should only be used if someone can interpret them, and in a proper sequence, to prevent confusion. The congregation is also encouraged to respect the limited role women are allowed in worship, even if they possess spiritual gifts. In all of this, orderliness aligned with God’s will delights Him and strengthens the church. 

Applying this section is challenging since we do not possess the same spiritual gifts as those in the first-century church. However, we can gain valuable insights into the talents among God’s people and how we utilize them. These talents may differ, with some potentially holding more significance than others in worship or specific situations. Regardless, we should always strive to act for the edification of God’s people, employing whatever abilities He gives us. When gathered for worship, we must honor God’s design of order, clarity, and respect for gender-based limitations. In every generation, God’s design for the church remains valid. We sing, pray, study, and invest ourselves for the benefit of the whole, viewing these actions as the Lord’s commandments. 

Heavenly Father, thank You for reminding us to use the gifts You have given us to build up the body of believers. Grant us wisdom to recognize the abilities we already possess and the opportunities to serve that are placed right in front of us. Protect our hearts from pride and worldliness, which can blind us to our mission: to honor You and to be a valuable asset in helping Christians worship and serve You. Father, please bless our assemblies. We will focus on obeying Your commandments and worshiping You in a proper and orderly manner, for Your name’s sake. 

Thought Questions:

-       Why does Paul emphasize the importance of prophecy over speaking in tongues, and how should that affect the way you use your abilities?

-       If worship only benefits you, or is only about you, is that God’s design? How do you make assemblies more about the group than yourself?

-       Does God have the right to govern the design of church assemblies? Should we respect His teachings restricting women’s leadership?

Reach Out: Please include your email and I will get back to you. Thanks!

Picking the title this week was tough, as you'll hear in the episode. It was a genuine pleasure to listen to the best golfer in the world add some incredibly valuable perspective about life, golf, work, and family. There are many awesome ways to testify to the love of Jesus. Sometimes you can say His name and tell people how much you love Him. Other times, it's just refusing to get caught up in valuing things about Jesus and others.

Today's episode includes excerpts from a recent interview given by Scottie Scheffler at the Open Championship (British Open). I hope you enjoy it as much as I did. Please consider how the world is observing your faith and how you define success in this life. Maybe it's time to look at things we thought mattered so much and just ask, What's The Point?

Daily Bible Devotional (Volumes 1 and 2):

Amazon - (paperback, hardcover, and Kindle)

Sponsors: 
Jon Cunningham, Owner, Cunningham Financial Group
Website:  www.cunninghamfinancialgroup.com   
Phone:  205-326-7364

Tyler Cain, Senior Loan Officer, Statewide Mortgage
Websites: https://statewidemortgage.com/
https://tylercain.floify.com/
Phone: 813-380-8487

Reach Out: Please include your email and I will get back to you. Thanks!

Good morning! Thank you for taking a few minutes to listen. If you are interested in the Daily Bible Devotional, you can find it at the links below:
Amazon - (paperback, hardcover, and Kindle)
Spiritbuilding.com - (premium quality paperback)
Youtube Video Introducing the Content
Feel free to reach out with any questions: [email protected]

I Corinthians 13

Love is the premier quality and focus in the life of a believer. While spiritual gifts like prophecy, tongues, and knowledge held value, they were insignificant without love. Nothing disciples do has value unless infused with love. Love is fundamental to all Christian actions and relationships. Paul describes love as patient, kind, and selfless; it is never envious, boastful, or prideful. Love does not dishonor others, seek its own advantage, or delight in evil, but rejoices in the truth. It always protects, trusts, hopes, and endures. Supernatural spiritual gifts were temporary and would cease to exist once the complete revelation of God was revealed. However, love is eternal and will last beyond this life. “But now faith, hope, love, abide these three; but the greatest of these is love.” 

Christians in the first century had supernatural spiritual gifts. However, even those gifts held no value without heartfelt love. Today, we possess various abilities and knowledge. We can achieve great things, such as helping the poor and making personal sacrifices, but those actions only hold significance if driven by love for God and love for others. God calls for our patience, kindness, and enduring faith in others. If we teach and serve out of self-interest, we may accomplish good deeds, but God will not reward us. We must embody love in every action and in all things. We now have the complete revelation of scripture, and even so, faith and hope in the truth must be accompanied by abiding love. 

Abiding God, we praise You for Your lovingkindness and daily mercies. We do not deserve Your grace, yet You sustain us each day. Father, help us to love others as You love us. Strengthen us to remove envy, pride, and selfishness from our hearts and to prioritize love for You and love for all our neighbors. Teach us to develop patience with others and to live in hope for better days, trusting that the truth can guide us to unity and peace. In lives filled with faith, hope, and love, remind us daily that the greatest of these is love. 

Thought Questions:

-       What happens if you have the truth but do not share it with love? Why is genuine care for others crucial in all you do in the name of Jesus?

-       Love “bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, and endures all things.” When are those things most needed among God’s people?

-       If we have the complete revelation of God, why is love still needed? Why does fellowship require more than just “perfect” knowledge?