Richard Ellis Talks

When Jesus died, He knew that God would raise Him from the dead three days later. And because of His sacrifice, we've been given the choice to be raised to life in eternity with Him. But in the meantime, we have a life to live here on earth -- the question is, how are we surrendering it to God for His use?

The story of David and Goliath is a perfect example of how God is more than capable of overcoming our obstacles. And more than that, it's a reminder: we'll all face trials and tribulations in life, but we can trust God to fight for us in the midst of them. Instead of being consumed by worry over the struggles we face, let's believe His Word, which says He is greater than anything that comes against us!

When we're filled with Christ, we can't help but overflow with His love! But to truly follow Jesus, we have to cast a net out for others and lead them to Him. When we share the Gospel, we also need to teach people how to follow -- because the knowledge doesn't mean anything unless it's accompanied by the relationship.

The Bible is filled with examples of God caring for His people throughout history, because He's promised to supply all of our needs. But unless we eat the "food" found through Scripture, we will never be filled. Jesus teaches that we have more than just physical needs -- and the only way to satisfy our spiritual needs is through Him.

When it comes to doing Kingdom work "outside the box", Jesus gave us countless good examples! The truth is, obedience to God draws us outside our comfort zone so He may be glorified and His name made known to others. Are there "boxes" that keep us from living out God's call on our lives?

Isaiah 43:2 tells us, "When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and when you pass through the rivers, they will not sweep over you. When you walk through the fire, you will not be burned; the flames will not set you ablaze." The Bible's filled with examples of men and women who chose to obey God in spite of serious consequences. When we trust Him, He promises to walk with us through any fire we face.

Scripture tells us that no amount of earthly treasures or pleasures can fix our own brokenness. Only God can change us from the inside out. The best way to enjoy the life that He's given us is to chase after Him -- and in doing so, we'll find true purpose and meaning!

Joseph of Nazareth was just an "average Joe" who decided to obey God. His obedience led him to become Jesus' earthly stepfather! When God uses ordinary people, He works in them to do extraordinary things. The moment we become followers of Christ, God begins living in us and uses His Holy Spirit to do His work.

Throughout the Old Testament, when God's people went out to face battle on their own, they were always met with defeat. But when they started praising the Lord before the battle, fixing their eyes on Him, and following His instructions -- no matter how crazy they seemed! -- they would always be led into victory. The same is true of us today: when we keep our eyes on God and obey His direction, the result will always be a "win" for us and the Kingdom!

We're all going to die one day -- and not all of us are sure what happens to us after death. The good news is: thanks to Christ's sacrifice on the cross, we can know where we're going to spend eternity! When we accept Jesus as our Lord and Savior, we can be certain of our salvation, and our "death" wish becomes eternal life with Him.