Add Row
Add Element
cropper
update

Biblical Living Unlocked

Logo - Biblical living unlocked
update
Add Element
  • Home
  • Categories
    • Biblical Parenting
    • Parenting Tips
    • Family Fellowship
    • Bible Teaching
    • Apologetics
    • Community Stories
    • Youth Focus
    • International
    • Walton Evangelical Church
    • Salt Church Mar Menor
    • Salt Church Los Montesinos
    • John Piper
Add Element
  • Ken on Facebook
    update
  • update
  • update
  • update
  • update
  • update
  • update
June 14.2025
3 Minutes Read

How to Embody Goodness That Challenges Comfort Zones

Bearded man speaking energetically in a grey room, discussing godliness.

Discovering the True Nature of Goodness

In our quest for personal growth and a stronger faith, it's important to understand what goodness truly means. The video Who Is Good But Not Safe? by Greg Morse invites us to reflect on how we define goodness in our lives and the world around us. Too often, we associate being good with being comfortable and safe, but does that really reflect the teachings of the Bible?

In Who Is Good But Not Safe?, Greg Morse challenges our understanding of what it means to be good, prompting us to explore the deeper implications of goodness in our lives.

The Challenge of Comfort vs. Calling

Many people think that living a good life means following all the rules and keeping out of trouble. But God calls us to much more than that. The story of Jesus shows us that being good often means stepping outside of our comfort zones and embracing the challenge of faith. Think about when Jesus asked His followers to leave everything behind and follow Him. This wasn't safe, but it was profoundly good.

Real-Life Examples of Bold Goodness

Consider some well-known figures who were good but never played it safe. Martin Luther King Jr. stood up against injustice, knowing the risks involved. Mother Teresa devoted her life to helping the poor, often in dangerous environments. Their goodness wasn't just about being nice; it was about making sacrifices for others and standing up for what is right.

A Call to Action: Embrace Risk in Faith

What if we all took a page out of their books? Imagine how our communities would change if we were not afraid of the risks that come with true goodness. Maybe it means stepping up to help someone in need, standing against bullying, or even sharing our faith in challenging situations. Just like the heroes we admire, we can show that our faith makes us brave instead of safe.

Goodness that Transforms Lives

Being truly good requires action. It’s not enough just to be polite or follow the rules; we need to be agents of change. How can you think outside the box and create positive change in your environment? Perhaps you can volunteer at a local shelter, start a community service project, or lead a prayer group at your school. Each small act of kindness can ripple out to yield greater good in the world.

Finding Support in Your Journey

As committed Christians, we should surround ourselves with communities that encourage this kind of boldness. Whether you're a parent seeking to guide your children, a youth leader motivating young people, or a seeker on a spiritual quest, remember that being part of a vibrant church community can provide the support and strength you need to embrace risks for the good of others.

Encouragement for the Next Generation

For our youth and young adults, facing a world filled with uncertainties can be daunting. However, when you're grounded in faith, you learn that goodness often comes with risks. Encourage your friends and peers to embrace the good things, even if they feel uncomfortable. Participate in opportunities that challenge you and invite others to join you!

Reflecting on the message from the video Who Is Good But Not Safe? compellingly urges each of us to evaluate how we define goodness. Let's strive for a brave life full of purposeful actions, impact, and support for one another. Together, we can create a community of faithful individuals ready to challenge the status quo for the love of God.

John Piper

5 Views

0 Comments

Write A Comment

*
*
Related Posts All Posts
07.30.2025

Embracing the Truth of Suffering and Glory in 2 Timothy 2:8-10

Update The Unwavering Truths in 2 Timothy 2:8-10 In the letters of Paul, exceptions can often be found in the passages where teachings emerge from experiences of deep suffering. 2 Timothy 2:8-10 highlights the paradox of Christian faith — that suffering can indeed lead to glory. Here, Paul urges Timothy to remember the resurrection of Jesus Christ, emphasizing that while preaching the Gospel may involve hardships, the result transcends those troubles. This challenges the common perception that faith things should equate to comfort. Finding Strength in Suffering For many, suffering is one of life’s most common and painful experiences. However, for the Christian believer, suffering takes on a transformative power. It aligns us with Christ, who tells us in John 16:33 that we will face tribulations, but we should take heart because He has overcome the world. When Paul mentions being chained like a criminal in verse 9, he conveys a remarkable truth: that God’s Word is not bound, and despite physical imprisonment, the power of the Gospel prevails. As church leaders and influencers in our community, our commitment to preaching God’s Truth may put us at odds with the world, but it is during these trials that our faith and conviction can shine brightest. The Cost of Courageous Preaching To preach the entirety of God’s counsel is no small feat. This call requires a deep-rooted trust in the sovereignty of God. As Pastor John highlights, recognizing God’s role in our suffering is crucial. While Satan works hard to undermine faith, God uses suffering to refine us. This perspective is invaluable for new believers and young adults navigating their faith in diverse environments. When faced with ridicule or rejection, knowing that God is at work can provide a strong foundation to stand firm in our beliefs. Empathy and Community: Answers for the Spiritually Curious New believers and seekers often grapple with questions surrounding suffering — why does it occur, and where is God during these times? When church communities engage in open discussions about suffering and its implications in our faith, it builds a safe environment for exploration. By empathizing with others, we align ourselves with God’s heart. Creating spaces in church gatherings to tackle these themes can nurture resilient faith and enhance connections across generational lines. Resilience Through Understanding: Opportunities for Growth Suffering isn’t just a byproduct of our journey; it can serve as an opportunity for spiritual growth. By embracing the teachings of scripture and reflecting on historical context, we can find deep knowledge in life’s toughest moments. Parents, for instance, might find opportunities to teach their children about perseverance while modeling how to cope with challenges through Biblical examples. Club discussions, Bible study groups, or even family devotions can be gateways to understanding the larger narrative of redemption present within our hardships. Keeping Our Eyes on the Ultimate Reward The world offers so many distractions that can lead us away from our calling to follow Christ. As Paul concludes in 2 Timothy 2, the ultimate reward for enduring suffering is a seat in His glory. This focus on eternal life compared to temporal struggles reaffirms our purpose as believers in a chaotic world. Call to Action: Embrace Your Journey Through Suffering As we continue to navigate our faith journeys, it’s critical to engage with suffering through a Gospel lens. Embrace the teachings of 2 Timothy to inspire hope and courage within your communities. Help others understand that through trials, we do not lose heart, but rather, we gain an opportunity to exemplify God’s glory. Join a community group, engage in church discussions, and seek opportunities to serve those who are struggling.

07.30.2025

Discovering the Gospel's Triumph Through Our Suffering

Update Understanding Suffering Through Faith In our journey of faith, it's essential to remember that suffering is often part of our growth and connection with God. As outlined in Paul’s letter to Timothy, even in prison, Paul shared a profound truth: “The word of God is not bound.” This means that although external circumstances might limit us, our faith and the message of the Gospel can transcend barriers. Understanding this concept can provide comfort and strength to those enduring their own struggles.In The Gospel Triumphs Through Suffering: 2 Timothy 2:8–10, Part 2, we explore profound insights on faith and resilience, sparking deeper discussions about suffering and the hope found in Christ. The Power of Jesus Christ in Our Lives Paul emphasizes the importance of remembering Jesus Christ, who is risen and triumphant over death. This central tenet of faith means that regardless of our adversities, we serve a living Savior who has defeated the ultimate enemy. For young believers and families, grounding our lives in the truth of Christ's resurrection encourages resilience. Jesus is not merely a figure in history; His victory is our victory, providing hope amid trials. Suffering for a Greater Purpose Many people question the reason for suffering. Yet, Paul’s example reveals that our struggles can serve a higher purpose. “I endure everything for the sake of the elect,” he acknowledged, showing that his personal suffering wasn't in vain. When we face hardships with faith, we align ourselves with God’s broader plan for salvation. This perspective encourages young adults and families to face difficulties with courage, knowing that God can use our trials to impact others positively. Building Confidence Through Adversity Adversity can strengthen our faith and embolden others to share their faith. Paul’s imprisonment served to advance the Gospel, and his boldness inspired fellow believers to speak with courage. The message is clear: our collective experiences create a ripple effect that can empower those around us. For church leaders and youth groups, fostering an environment where sharing experiences of struggle encourages others is vital for communal growth. The Role of Community in Our Faith Journey Community plays a significant role in navigating suffering together. When Paul faced challenges, he did not bear them alone; he was part of a body of believers. We need one another for encouragement, prayer, and support. In our local churches, fostering connections through small groups or family gatherings can create a safe space for sharing and healing. That powerful bond among church members often helps to bear the burdens of life. Embracing the Mission of Spreading the Gospel It’s crucial to remember that our mission as believers involves spreading the Gospel, even amid our challenges. Through our tribulations, we showcase the strength and truth of the Gospel. Therefore, encouraging youth to actively engage in ministry, whether through simple acts of kindness or organized outreach, enables them to embody the message of Christ. This influence inspires faith and encourages more profound commitments among peers. In The Gospel Triumphs Through Suffering, we see everything Paul experienced as purposeful. Every challenge we face can reflect a chance to witness God’s work and draw nearer to Him. Let’s embark on this journey together, supporting one another through life’s many trials as we strive to share the light of Christ’s glory amid darkness. Take Action: If you're feeling the weight of trials or are questioning your faith, consider reaching out to your church’s community. Engage in discussions or activities that explore faith and suffering. Take a step forward knowing that through fellowship, you can grow stronger in Christ.

07.29.2025

Embracing God's Sovereignty: What Role Does He Play in Your Suffering?

Update Understanding the Role of God in Our Suffering Many believers grapple with the question of why suffering exists, especially when they see God's sovereignty intertwined with painful experiences. In the context of the story of Job, as discussed in the video titled Why Do You Focus on God’s Role in Our Suffering?, we are invited to explore deeper truths about suffering and God's purpose behind it.In the video titled Why Do You Focus on God’s Role in Our Suffering?, the discussion dives into the complex relationship between God’s sovereignty and our suffering, exploring key insights that sparked deeper analysis on our end. God’s Sovereignty in Painful Times When we read the story of Job, we encounter the reality that God has a role in our suffering—one that is often misunderstood. Many assume God merely permits suffering, which may lead to a simplistic understanding of His character. However, as highlighted in the podcast, Job 42:11 states, "...for all the evil that the Lord had brought upon him." This assertion can be shocking but crucial for understanding how God works through difficult circumstances, reminding us that He can use even the darkest days for our sanctification. Finding Holiness Through Trials What does it mean when we say that God uses suffering to make us holier? Picture this: just as a blacksmith hones a sword, applying heat and pressure to mold it, God allows trials to refine our spirits. The challenges we face can draw us closer to Him, deepen our faith, and help us learn to rely on His strength rather than our own. The Importance of Perspective It can be easy to feel overwhelmed by suffering, as did Job when he lost everything. Our perspective on suffering is crucial. *Why does God allow it?* Though we may never fully understand His reasons, we can reflect on three significant lessons: God's Greater Plan: Even in Job's suffering, there was a greater narrative unfolding. The trials faced by Job ultimately showcased faith and endurance—traits valued and admired across generations. Empathy and Compassion: Experiencing suffering enables us to cultivate empathy for others in their struggles. It empowers us to provide comfort to others who face their own trials. Hope in Redemption: Job's story culminates in restoration. He not only received back what he lost, but his faith and trust in God emerged stronger than before. Challenges in Understanding Suffering Addressing suffering can be sensitive. Questions like, “Why would a loving God allow pain?” often arise. It's essential to remember that understanding suffering is not solely about intellectual comprehension; it's about heart engagement. The confusion surrounding God’s role, as discussed in the video, highlights a need for believers to reflect on the balance between God’s sovereignty and human experience. Encouragement in Tough Times When discouragement creeps in, it is vital to remind ourselves of God's promises. Romans 8:28 tells us that God works all things for good for those who love Him. This reminder can be comforting, assuring believers that ultimately, they are part of a much larger plan. Bringing it All Together The themes presented in the video encourage believers to embrace the complexities of faith in suffering. Engaging deeply with biblical truths, understanding God’s sovereignty, and seeking holiness through trials are essential for spiritual growth. If you find yourself questioning why you face certain challenges or grappling with feelings of despair, remember that God is with you. Let His Word guide you, strengthen you, and remind you of the hope that lies in trusting His plan. Stay connected with your faith community, engage in prayer, and seek guidance from scripture. You are not alone on this journey—together, let's grow in our understanding and love for God.

Terms of Service

Privacy Policy

Core Modal Title

Sorry, no results found

You Might Find These Articles Interesting

T
Please Check Your Email
We Will Be Following Up Shortly
*
*
*