Under God’s mighty hand

1 Peter 5:5-6
October 29th 2023, 5th Holy Day of the month
Rev. Tadashi Nagae, pastor

Following the elders, Peter now tells to the younger people. Not only that they are younger in age, but they can be regarded as the brothers and sisters of the church.

The first is to clothe ourselves with humility toward one another. A pastor humbly shepherds souls assigned to him, and the brothers and sisters humbly follow the pastor who was set up by the Lord. We need to put on humility toward one another. Jesus walked in humility more than anyone else. We need to be getting more like Him.

The second is to humble ourselves under God's mighty hand. The word "mighty hand" is used here deliberately. Almighty God's powerful hand protects and guides us. It is important to be aware of His hand and rely on it.

The third is to believe in God's time and promises. God sees those who walk humbly before Him and will bless them at just the right time. It is important to walk believing in God's promise that there is God's due time and that He will lift us up on high.

Those who are humble will humble themselves under the mighty hand of God. Let us not rely on our own strength, but trust in the Lord and always humble ourselves under God's mighty hand!

<The Verse of the Bible>

Humble yourselves, therefore, under God’s mighty hand, that he may lift you up in due time.

1 Peter 5:6 (NIV)

Be shepherds of God’s flock

1 Peter 5:1-4
October 22nd 2023, 4th Holy Day of the month
Rev. Tadashi Nagae, pastor

This is a teaching for elders, that is, pastors, evangelists, and teachers. However, since we are in contact and fellowship with somebody in the church, we can say that this teaching is beneficial to all Christians.

The first is to shepherd the flock of God's sheep. Just as a shepherd feeds, leads, protects, and heals his sheep, so does a pastor. But it should be the work of all Christians in the church, not just the pastor.

The second is to pastor with integrity of heart. We are taught to do this not under compulsion, but voluntarily, not seeking lowly gain, but with all our hearts, not dominating, but setting a good example. People tend to be self-centered, so they should do so with a right heart.

Thirdly, we must remember that souls are assigned to us. God has led us to Yokohama Bible Baptist Church at this time in His plan. And He has entrusted us with souls.

Let us have in mind that we have been entrusted with the important task of shepherding God's sheep, and let us do it with all our hearts and minds!

<The Verse of the Bible>

Be shepherds of God’s flock that is under your care, watching over them—not because you must, but because you are willing, as God wants you to be; not pursuing dishonest gain, but eager to serve;

1 Peter 5:2 (NIV)

Witnesses of Christ's sufferings

1 Peter 5:1
October 15th 2023, 3rd Holy Day of the month
Rev. Tadashi Nagae, pastor

Let us learn about what we Christians should remember from the beginning part of the section to the elders.

The first is to humble ourselves before God. Peter was an apostle, the one who walked closest to Jesus, but he says he is one of the same elders. His humility is shown here. Our humility expresses our spirituality, and the Lord gives blessings to the humble.

The second is to be witnesses to Christ's suffering. It is to testify that He suffered and died on the cross in place of our corrupt sins. It is not a matter for others. All Christians are given this position and mission.

The third is to be aware of the time to receive the glory of God. The Lord will come again in time. Or the time will come when we will meet Him in heaven. And then, we will be able to receive the glory of God. It is important to be aware and assume the time as we walk through our lives.

Let us be aware of our position and walk with the assumption what will take place in the future!

<The Verse of the Bible>

To the elders among you, I appeal as a fellow elder and a witness of Christ’s sufferings who also will share in the glory to be revealed:

1 Peter 5:1 (NIV)

Committing ourselves to our faithful Creator

1 Peter 4:15-19
October 8th 2023, 2nd Holy Day of the month
Rev. Tadashi Nagae, pastor

Continuing from last week, let us confirm what we need to keep in mind as we prepare for fiery (burning) trials.

The first is to check ourselves to see if there is anything we need to change in ourselves. We have a weakness that makes it difficult to be aware of our own sins. It is important to check ourselves first to see if we are walking righteously.

The second is to keep our eyes on the blessings of salvation. Certain hardships may come our way, but we have already received salvation which is indispensable and the most fortunate thing we can have. We must fix our eyes on the grace of salvation.

The third is to commit ourselves to our faithful Creator and to do good. It is to the truthful God, who alone has the power to create heaven and earth and all things by His Word alone, that we can commit our souls to. It is important to serve the Lord and His Church.

Jesus went through many hardships, but He always trusted in God the Father, endured them, and walked in doing good. Let us follow the Lord's example, entrusting ourselves to the Creator of Truth in the midst of burning hardships, and walk faithfully to the end!

<The Verse of the Bible>

So then, those who suffer according to God’s will should commit themselves to their faithful Creator and continue to do good.

1 Peter 4:19 (NIV)

When we are at a fiery ordeal (painful trial)

1 Peter 4:12-14
October 1st 2023, 1st Holy Day of the month
Rev. Tadashi Nagae, pastor

At the time this letter was written, terrible persecution of Christians was taking place. So, Peter told the readers of this letter how they should respond when a fiery ordeal comes to them.

The first is not to be suspicious. It is important to recognize that Christians surely face persecution. We must not have the false perception that there will be no suffering if we believe in Christ.

The second is to rejoice. Three reasons are given for this: One is that trials produce faith so that we can grow in faith. The next is that we can participate in the sufferings of Christ, and then we can join the glory of God. And the last is that we can experience the help of God's Spirit.

Everyone who wants to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted. Let us keep in mind what we have learned today in preparation for painful trials to come. Let us look at suffering from an eternal perspective, endure it, and rejoice in the Lord!

<The Verse of the Bible>

Dear friends, do not be surprised at the fiery ordeal (painful trial) that has come on you to test you, as though something strange were happening to you.

1 Peter 4:12 (NIV)

The rest of our earthly lives

1 Peter 4:1-2
July 23rd 2023, 4th Holy Day of the month
Rev. Tadashi Nagae, pastor

We are learning about, with what kind of attitude, we should walk the rest of our earthly lives.

The first is to struggle against suffering with the same attitude as the Lord. It is written that we should dare to arm ourselves because there are spiritual struggles in the lives of Christians. Jesus also struggled in the midst of suffering. We should also, with the same attitude, walk our lives as we struggle.

The second is to be done with sin. When we accept suffering correctly through faith and struggle against it, we will be able to break off our relationship with sin. We can then be sanctified.

The third is to live in the will of the Lord. In the past, we were totally self-centered and our own thoughts were all that counted. But ever since we came to know the Lord's love, we have been changed so that we want to do the Lord's will, not our own thoughts. That is a truly blessed walk.

Our earthly life is not eternal, but limited. The remaining time is surely getting shorter. Let us walk each day with the same attitude as the Lord. Let us be sanctified and walk in the will of the Lord!

<The Verse of the Bible>

As a result, they do not live the rest of their earthly lives for evil human desires, but rather for the will of God.

1 Peter 4:2 (NIV)

Through sufferings to the glory

1 Peter 3:19-22
July 16th 2023, 3rd Holy Day of the month
Rev. Tadashi Nagae, pastor

Today's passage also describes the sufferings that Christians undergo. It is a very difficult part to understand, so I explain it first. After that, let us learn three things:

The first is to follow the Lord even if we suffer hardships. Noah and his family believed the Word of God, started the preparation, and told it to the people. But the people refused to believe and disobeyed, while Noah still continued to follow the Lord.

The second is to renew our commitment to the Lord in the midst of suffering. Baptism is not a requirement for salvation, but a commitment to the Lord by those who have been saved. Our faith tends to waver at times of hardship, but it is the time we must renew our commitment to the Lord.

The third is to remember that it is through suffering that the glory of God is revealed. Jesus suffered and died on the cross as a substitute for humankind. Because of his work of redemption, he is now seated at the right hand of God. We need to remember that suffering is when His glory is manifested.

In times of suffering, we tend to be weak. But it is at that time that our faith is being tested. Let us follow through to the end for the glory of the Lord!

<The Verse of the Bible>

Jesus Christ, who has gone into heaven and is at God’s right hand—with angels, authorities and powers in submission to him.

1 Peter 3:22 (NIV)

Christ turns our suffering into good

1 Peter 3:17-18
July 9th 2023, 2nd Holy Day of the month
Rev. Tadashi Nagae, pastor

We are told that it is good to suffer for doing good for the sake of Christ. Let us learn the reasons for this.

The first is because Christ suffered by doing good. Although He came to save mankind, He suffered a lot. Finally, He suffered and died on the cross. If this is the case with our Savior, we should also suffer for Him.

The second is because it was Christ's suffering that led us to God. Without Christ's suffering and death, we would not have been led to God and saved. It is a blessing to suffer for the sake of our Lord.

The third is because Christ turns our suffering into good and gives us good things. Suffering in the Lord is not a bad thing. God makes everything good and gives us blessings even through suffering. Even more, there are blessings that come only through suffering.

When we suffer, we tend to grumble and worry. But let us overcome it in faith in the Lord, remembering that it is good for righteousness!

<The Verse of the Bible>

For it is better, if it is God’s will, to suffer for doing good than for doing evil.

1 Peter 3:17 (NIV)

What fathers should do

Ephesians 5:22-33
June 18th 2023, 3rd Holy Day of the month
Rev. Tadashi Nagae, pastor

We are going to learn about what fathers should do. At the same time, let us remember that this is a lesson for all people.

The first is to love the wives. Husbands are taught to love their wives, following the love of Jesus as their role model. They need to follow the example of the Lord and love their wives unconditionally and sacrificially. The Lord commands the Churches as well to love one another like this way.

The second is to bring up children in the training and instruction of the Lord. Fathers are given the responsibility of raising their children. They must not lead their children in an irresponsible manner that exasperates them. The fathers have the responsibility to instruct and direct their children correctly according to the Word of God. This is also the work given to the churches.

The third is to be good encouragers. It is the role of the fathers who are given authority over the households. Also within the churches, we need to encourage one another. There is abundant spiritual growth where mutual encouragement through the love of the Lord exist.

The Lord wants to use us. Let us devote ourselves to the Lord and ask Him to use ourselves for the growth of the souls, both in the households and in the churches.

<The Verse of the Bible>

Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her.

Ephesians 5:25 (NIV)

Easter, filled with hope!

Matthew 28:5-6
April 9th 2023, 2nd Holy Day of the month
Rev. Tadashi Nagae, pastor

After the Lord died on the cross, the disciples lost hope and hid in fear. Let us learn what is necessary for us to walk with the certain hope.

The first is to believe that the Lord's promises are sure to be fulfilled, and to walk with this in mind. Although the disciples had heard from the Lord about his death on the cross and his resurrection, they did not believe it and did not keep it in their hearts, so they lost hope. The Lord's promises are not enough if we just hear them.

The second is to walk, remembering that the Lord is walking with us. They lost hope and were afraid when the Lord died and stopped walking with them, but they were filled with hope when the risen Lord walked with them. The Lord promises that He is with us always.

The third is to walk, remembering that the Lord will make us victorious over death. He died, but rose again and appeared to His disciples in the flesh. The Book of Corinthians tells that he has become the firstfruits. We shall be victorious over death and eventually be given imperishable perfect bodies.

Let us always have in mind that the Lord is the one who gives us the sure hope!

<The Verse of the Bible>

He is not here; he has risen, just as he said. Come and see the place where he lay.

Matthew 28:6 (NIV)

To remember the Lord who suffered and died on the cross

Matthew 27:24-50
April 2nd 2023, 1st Holy Day of the month
Rev. Tadashi Nagae, pastor

Continuing from last week, we will learn about the Passion of Jesus.

Firstly, we must not forget that the Lord was mocked and tormented more than anyone else. He must have been flogged with the Roman scourge and his body must have been severely wounded. He was also mocked by the Roman soldiers. We must not forget that the Lord of glory suffered and was mocked more than anyone else for our sake.

Secondly, we must not forget that the Lord went through the way of suffering. The Lord walked through the path of suffering called via dolorosa, carrying the cross on His back. He could have escaped, but He walked all the way to the hill of Calvary.

Thirdly, we must not forget that the suffering of the Lord's cross expresses love. Crucifixion was a horrible way of execution that did not cause immediate death but prolonged suffering. Jesus could have come down from the cross, but His love for us would not let Him do so.

Sometimes suffering comes into our lives. We may wonder why it happens even though we have faith. But in such times, let us remember Jesus on the cross and let us be victorious!

<The Verse of the Bible>

About three in the afternoon Jesus cried out in a loud voice, "Eli, Eli, lema sabachthani?" (which means "My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?").

Matthew 27:46 (NIV)

Peter, who disowned the Lord Jesus

Matthew 26:57-75
March 26th 2023, 4th Holy Day of the month
Rev. Tadashi Nagae, pastor

As we look ahead to Easter, let us learn from the events that took place before the crucifixion.

The first is to beware of the sin which tries to exclude the Lord. The religious leaders of the Jewish people plotted to kill Jesus. They arrested him and held a trial in the middle of the night. There they had a heart that did not fear God and wanted to eliminate Him. Although we are Christians, we should recognize that we also have that kind of sin in us and be cautious about it.

The second is to listen carefully to the Word of the Lord, believing that He is talking to each of us directly. Although Peter heard that he would disown the Lord three times before the rooster crows twice, he thought he would not do such a thing. But when he was questioned by the women if he was the fellow man, he disowned the Lord three times. If we listen to the Word of God as if it were someone else's business, we will also fail. It is important to listen to the Word of God and believe that it is spoken to us individually.

The third is that the Lord has mercy on us who are imperfect and gives us a chance to start over. The Lord looked at Peter who had denied him. It was not with the eyes of judgment but with the eyes of compassion, and the Lord gave him a mission when he has turned again. The Lord looks at us in the same way as well, and gives us a mission.

Let us trust in the Lord, who is full of mercy and grace, and let Him use us for His glory!

<The Verse of the Bible>

Then he began to call down curses, and he swore to them, "I don't know the man!" Immediately a rooster crowed. Then Peter remembered the word Jesus had spoken: "Before the rooster crows, you will disown me three times." And he went outside and wept bitterly.

Matthew 26:74-75 (NIV)

To be moved by the Word of the LORD

Ezra 1:1-5
March 19th 2023, 3rd Holy Day of the month
Rev. Tadashi Nagae, pastor

Let us learn about the guidance of the Lord through the book of Ezra.

Firstly, the Lord works in us to will and guides us. The Lord moved the heart of King Cyrus to make proclamation, so that the people of Israel would go up to Jerusalem and rebuild a temple. The Lord moves the hearts of us even now and guides us with His Word.

Secondly, Satan hinders us when we try to follow the Lord. The people of Israel returned and began the rebuilding work, but the work was halted due to the obstruction by the enemies. In the same way, when we try to follow the Lord and move forward, Satan surely comes to hinder us, even now.

Thirdly, when we are moved by the Word of the Lord, we can win a victory and accomplish our tasks. If we only look at the situation, we become afraid and want to run away, but if we are given the Word of the Lord and moved by it, then we are given the power of the Lord and wisdom, and we will be able to accomplish our tasks.

The same is true for constructing a church building. Let us look at the Word of God, believe in it, and let our hearts be moved by the Lord to accomplish it!

<The Verse of the Bible>

Then the family heads of Judah and Benjamin, and the priests and Levites — everyone whose heart God had moved — prepared to go up and build the house of the Lord in Jerusalem.

Ezra 1:5 (NIV)

As servants of God

1 Peter 2:13-17
March 12th 2023, 2nd Holy Day of the month
Rev. Tadashi Nagae, pastor

Today's passage again tells us about how Christians should walk.

The first is to submit ourselves to every human authority. We are foreigners and exiles in this world, but still, we need to walk our lives with testimonies, by taking responsibility in this world, and by obeying authority instituted among men.

The second is to walk as servants of God. We are subject to the authority of this world, but at the same time, we are regarded as God's servants and also free. We can become free only by obeying the Word of the Lord.

The third is to walk in the fear of God. When we walk in the fear of God, we respect all men and kings, and we can love our brethren. It is very important to fear God.

This world tells us of false freedoms. However, there is no freedom there, but bondage. Therefore, let us fear God, walk as His servants, and enjoy true freedom as we walk our lives!

<The Verse of the Bible>

Live as free people, but do not use your freedom as a cover-up for evil; live as God's slaves.

1 Peter 2:16 (NIV)

As foreigners and exiles

1 Peter 2:11-12
March 5th 2023, 1st Holy Day of the month
Rev. Tadashi Nagae, pastor

What Christians should be aware of and should do are described here.

First, one of the things we should be aware of as the people of God is that we are loved by God and made to love others. Love comes from God. We are loved by Him, we love our brothers and sisters, and we are also made to love the unsaved. Another is that we are foreigners and exiles in this world. If we do not remember this, we will walk like those who do not believe in God.

Second, one of the things we are urged to do is to abstain from sinful desires. They wage war against our souls. If we are not prepared, we will be attacked and walk corruptly away from God. Another is to live such good lives among unbelievers. This does not mean to walk perfectly, but to walk faithfully as those who have been saved, testifying about the Lord. The Lord uses our walks in this way.

Let us firmly realize that we are foreigners and exiles. Then, we will know our priorities and what we should do. The Lord uses us as His witnesses!

<The Verse of the Bible>

Dear friends, I urge you, as foreigners and exiles, to abstain from sinful desires, which wage war against your soul.

1 Peter 2:11 (NIV)

Even after the mission month

Thessalonians 3:1
February 26th 2023, 4th Holy Day of the month
Rev. Tadashi Nagae, pastor

Two things are taught from Paul's request.

Firstly, the prayers of the church are needed. Paul was the best educated man of the time, with much experience and accomplishments, but he requested the prayers of the church so that he would be given the power to speak. This was because he fully understood that missions work is a spiritual battle, so that there are always obstacles from the devil, and therefore, this work cannot move forward without the prayers of the church.

Secondly, the work must not be stopped in the middle of the process. Continued prayers are requested. We had a mission conference today, and we have been challenged to make this month a month of missions. However, it is meaningless if we stop at this point. We need to continue.

It is wrong to think that missions work is done solely by local missionaries. Missionaries can work and bear fruit only when there are prayers and support for the missions. Therefore, let us not be satisfied with the mission month alone. Let us continue to do what the Lord has shown us even after the mission month, and let us be used as fellow workers by the Lord!

<The Verse of the Bible>

As for other matters, brothers and sisters, pray for us that the message of the Lord may spread rapidly and be honored, just as it was with you.

2 Thessalonians 3:1 (NIV)

Distributing the bread of life

John 6:1-14
February 19th 2023, 3rd Holy Day of the month
Rev. Tadashi Nagae, pastor

Jesus satisfied the stomachs of 5000 people in men only with just five loaves and two fish.

The first is that the Lord tests and strengthens our faith. Knowing what he was about to do, he dared to ask Philip where they would buy bread for the people to eat. The reason why he did this is that the faith of Philip and the disciples would grow more. The Lord tests us as well even now.

The second is to look at the Lord first, then look at the situation. Both Philip and Andrew looked at the situation in front of them and spoke negatively. They did not see the Lord, who is the most important. In times of difficulty, it is important to look at the Lord and his promises.

The third is that the Lord blesses those who offer and uses them abundantly. The Lord showed his glory through using the small lunch a boy had and the imperfect disciples. Even now, the Lord uses us human, to show his glory.

Jesus said, "I am the bread of life.” Let us offer ourselves to the Lord for letting him to use us, and let us be the ones who distribute the bread of life!

<The Verse of the Bible>

When they had all had enough to eat, he said to his disciples, "Gather the pieces that are left over. Let nothing be wasted."

John 6:12 (NIV)

The salvation of the demon-possessed man

Mark 5:1-20
February 12th 2023, 2nd Holy Day of the month
Rev. Tadashi Nagae, pastor

Jesus and his disciples went across the lake and arrived at the region of the Gerasenes. There, they found a man who was possessed by the legion of demons.

Firstly, the Lord frees us from bondage by His word. The man was bound under the control of demons, but the Lord set him free by His Word. The Lord also releases us from the things that bind us.

Secondly, the Lord changes us by His Word. The man was sitting at the Lord after he had been in his right mind. It was an amazing change. Even now, the Lord changes people largely by His Word.

Thirdly, we are given the mission to tell the love and mercy of the Lord. He said the man to go home and tell his own people how much the Lord has done for him, and how he has had mercy on him. This is our mission too.

From the spiritual viewpoint, there are many people around us who are also bound. The Lord has given a mission for us to let the poeple who are close to us know His love and mercy.

<The Verse of the Bible>

Jesus did not let him, but said, “Go home to your own people and tell them how much the Lord has done for you, and how he has had mercy on you.”

Mark 5:19 (NIV)

The position and mission of ourselves

1 Peter 2:7-10
February 5th 2023, 1st Holy Day of the month
Rev. Tadashi Nagae, pastor

It describes the position and mission of those who have believed in Christ and have been saved.

The first is that it is a great blessing to have been saved. There are many people who reject and disobey Christ. In such a situation, we have been saved by God's grace and mercy. It is important for us to remember this grace every day and to make our salvation sure.

The second is to be aware of our position. We are considered to be a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people belonging to God. Let us remember that we are in a completely different position from those who do not believe in God.

The third is that our mission is to bring light to those who are in darkness. We used to be in darkness, but the Lord led us into the light. We are now given the role of bringing light to those in darkness and leading them to the Lord.

Let us not forget our amazing position as the saved. And let us fulfill the mission entrusted to us with a new perspective of life!

<The Verse of the Bible>

But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God’s special possession, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light.

1 Peter 2:9 (NIV)

The position and mission of ourselves

1 Peter 2:7-10
January 29th 2023, 5th Holy Day of the month
Rev. Tadashi Nagae, pastor

It describes the position and mission of those who have believed in Christ and have been saved.

The first is that it is a great blessing to have been saved. There are many people who reject and disobey Christ. In such a situation, we have been saved by God's grace and mercy. It is important for us to remember this grace every day and to make our salvation sure.

The second is to be aware of our position. We are considered to be a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people belonging to God. Let us remember that we are in a completely different position from those who do not believe in God.

The third is that our mission is to bring light to those who are in darkness. We used to be in darkness, but the Lord led us into the light. We are now given the role of bringing light to those in darkness and leading them to the Lord.

Let us not forget our amazing position as the saved. And let us fulfill the mission entrusted to us with a new perspective of life!

<The Verse of the Bible>

But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God’s special possession, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light.

1 Peter 2:9 (NIV)

As living stones

1 Peter 2:4-6
January 22nd 2023, 4th Holy Day of the month
Rev. Tadashi Nagae, pastor

Our position as saved ones is told here.

The first is that the Lord has become the cornerstone, the One whom we should trust. People mocked Jesus and killed Him by crucifying Him on the cross. But God has given salvation to mankind through the death and resurrection of Jesus. This is the One we should trust.

The second is that we are also being built into the church as living stones. The church is likened to a spiritual building. Jesus is the cornerstone, and God builds us up upon Him. This is a wonderful blessing.

The third is that we have the duty as priests to offer sacrifices pleasing to God. What pleases the Lord is not ceremonial worship, but praise, good deeds, and obedience. We must always be mindful to offer sacrifices pleasing to the Lord.

It is important that we go to the Lord. Let us then be strengthened by the Lord, built into the church, and offer sacrifices that are pleasing to God!

<The Verse of the Bible>

As you come to him, the living Stone—rejected by humans but chosen by God and precious to him— you also, like living stones, are being built into a spiritual house[a] to be a holy priesthood, offering spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God through Jesus Christ.

1 Peter 2:4-5 (NIV)

Like newborn babies

1 Peter 2:1-3
January 15th 2023, 3rd Holy Day of the month
Rev. Tadashi Nagae, pastor

We have been saved and born again. Therefore, it is natural and also required for us to grow spiritually. We learn what we need to do to achieve this.

The first is to get rid of the evil things that hinder our spiritual growth. Malice, deceit, hypocrisy, envy, and evil speaking are in everyone's heart. When we are shown these sins, we need to confess them to the Lord and discard them.

The second is to crave the Word of God. Newborn babies eagerly crave milk. They may instinctively know that it is an important energy source. Likewise, it is important for us to eagerly attend worship services and weekday gatherings, and to read the Word of God on a personal basis.

The third is to aim for spiritual growth. God laid down His life for sinful ones like us and led us to salvation. It is important to remember and thank for that mercy and aim for growth.

How much do we want to grow spiritually? Let us not be satisfied with our present condition, but let us grow by craving the milk of the Word of God!

<The Verse of the Bible>

Like newborn babies, crave pure spiritual milk, so that by it you may grow up in your salvation,

1 Peter 2:2 (NIV)

To have a blessed Christian life

Matthew 6:25-34
January 8th 2023, 2nd Holy Day of the month
Rev. Tadashi Nagae, pastor

What is necessary for those who have reached adulthood, and for all people, to have a blessed Christian life?

The first is not to spend time worrying. People are prone to worry. But even if we worry, nothing changes. We should walk in trust and surrender to God while believing that He is taking care of us.

The second is to put the First One first. Jesus told us to seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness. When our priorities are out of order, everything can go wrong and we will have all kinds of problems.

The third is to walk by bringing faith into practice. If we do not do so, we will walk like people of this world. It is important to practice faith in God by reading the Word of God and receiving encouragement and guidance from the Holy Spirit.

A new year has begun. What kind of Christian life do we want to have? If we are not careful, our walk will not be different from that of this world. Let us practice faith given by the Lord and live a vibrant and blessed life!

<The Verse of the Bible>

If that is how God clothes the grass of the field, which is here today and tomorrow is thrown into the fire, will he not much more clothe you — you of little faith?

Matthew 6:30 (NIV)

Three questions in order to walk righteously

Hebrews 11:23-27
January 1st 2023, 1st Holy Day of the month
Rev. Tadashi Nagae, pastor

I am sure that the days of this year also will pass by in a busy and hectic manner. In the midst of all this, three questions are necessary to be asked in order for us to walk righteously before the Lord.

The first is whom to fear. Moses' parents didn't fear the king of Egypt but God, and they followed God's will. We should not fear men either, but fear and obey God who rules all things and judges them righteously.

The second is what we value and choose. Moses chose to be mistreated along with the people of God rather than to live a luxurious life in Egypt. We will be blessed if we also choose to suffer with the brothers and sisters of the church for the glory of the Lord rather than to cling to the attractive things of this world.

The third is what to look at and persevere. Moses trusted in God and persevered through his hardships by looking at God who is invisible. It is important also for us to keep our eyes on the invisible God and persevere through difficulties.

A new year has begun. If we walk through each day asking ourselves these questions and making sure of the answers, we will be able to walk righteously before the Lord.

<The Verse of the Bible>

By faith Moses, when he had grown up, refused to be known as the son of Pharaoh's daughter. He chose to be mistreated along with the people of God rather than to enjoy the fleeting pleasures of sin.

Hebrews 11:24-25 (NIV)