Richard Ellis Talks

The world is filled with anxiety. Especially in our current circumstances! But when we let ourselves become consumed by worry, what we're really saying is that we lack trust in God. When we re-direct our focus towards choosing to trust Him, He gives us an unexplainable, supernatural peace -- and the ability to rejoice in our circumstances, no matter what they are.

In the Old Testament, God commanded His people to love Him with all their heart, soul, and strength. But in the New Testament, Jesus takes it to the next level when He challenges us to love others as we love ourselves. The only way we can do that is to first understand God's love for us and love Him in response -- so that we can turn around, love ourselves, and love others in the same way.

In the tough moments, it's easy for us to trade in our original plans for momentary pleasures. But when we give up our commitment to be obedient to God, it can lead to huge mistakes and grave consequences. Instead, let's keep our focus on Him -- and know that every choice we make has an impact on ourselves and others.

The Bible instructs us how we're supposed to live, and how to model for others what it looks like to serve God. Our lives aren't mean to be "model homes" that appear bright and shiny and perfect on the outside. They're meant to represent the work that God's done in us as a proclamation of what He can do in others.

Jesus told us that He's put His light in each of us so that we can go light the darkness around us. And the best way to do that is by proclaiming the knowledge of God's glory! Through His love that shines in our hearts, God can use us to help change the world.

The Bible tells us that the world is headed down the easy, wide path to destruction. But as followers of Christ, we're called to follow God's spiritual "gate change" announcement and walk the narrow path to eternal life instead. Taking the road less traveled might be difficult -- but it's worth it for the reward we have in Jesus.

Jesus lived a sinless life, then He took our sin on the cross and paid the price on our behalf. Because of what He's done for us, we've been washed clean and made holy. Not only that, but we can approach God boldly, knowing we're forgiven.

When it comes to sin, one of the biggest hurdles for us to overcome is ourselves. The Bible urges us to learn from our past mistakes and not continue down the same path toward darkness. If we choose to learn from the consequences of our actions, we won't be deceived -- and we'll choose the path that leads to life.

There are a lot of obstacles in life that can come between us and God, whether it's our sin struggles, outside distractions, or even other wholesome and honorable pursuits. But in order to live the life of freedom God offers, we have to tear down the walls that are keeping us separated from Him. When we examine our lives and see what those barriers are, we can ensure they no longer stand in the way of our relationship with the Lord.

We face situations in life where God's asking us to obey Him in some way, and we can stiffen up in stubbornness because we don't want to do the very thing He's asking us to do! In those instances, we have to allow ourselves to be softened up and listen to His call. He has a purpose for every thing beyond what we can see, and it could be for the benefit of other people in ways we don't even realize.