Take your place!

2 Samuel 6 & Luke 23:34

David was excited—jumping and dancing excitedly for the arrival of the ark of God. Free in his worship, lost in the joy of the Lord, he expressed his love for God without reservation. The presence of the Lord had returned to the heart of Israel, and David could not contain his gratitude.

But while David rejoiced, Michal, his wife, watched from a window. She saw his unrestrained worship, and instead of joining in the celebration, she filled her heart with scorn. She despised him, judged him, and accused him of acting shamefully before others. Her thoughts toward David were not shaped by love, understanding, or reverence for God. They were shaped by pride, comparison, and possibly even bitterness from her past.

David’s response was clear: “It was before the Lord.” His worship was never about impressing people—it was about honoring the One who had chosen him, the One who had been faithful. David understood something Michal missed: worship is an act of the heart, and when it is genuine, it will not always look dignified to others.

Michal’s story serves as a warning—when we allow our thoughts about others to be filled with negativity, judgment, or resentment, we close our hearts to the blessings of God. The Bible records that she remained childless for the rest of her life. Whether this was a physical consequence or a spiritual one, the truth remains: a critical heart bears no fruit.

So today, ask yourself: What are you filling your thoughts with when you see others worship, succeed, or express their love for God? Are you rejoicing with them, or are you secretly judging them? The enemy wants to turn our hearts toward criticism, but God calls us to celebrate His presence and His work in others.

Let’s choose to fill our hearts with love, gratitude, and worship—just like David. Also just like Jesus did saying - Father forgive them for they do not know what they are doing. Because when we keep our focus on the Lord, there’s no room for resentment butGod’s love.

Episode 333: You Are Made For More

My younger son and I always look forward to spotting the first car with the latest registration number each year. Do you know how car registrations work? New cars are released twice a year—one batch in February and another in September. For example, this February, cars will have a registration ending in “25,” and come September, the updated ones will have “75.” This cycle happens every year, with manufacturers continually upgrading their cars to make them better and better.

It got me thinking about how God designed us for constant growth and improvement. Proverbs 4:18 says, “The path of the righteous is like the morning sun, shining ever brighter till the full light of day.” Just like car manufacturers upgrade their models each year, God wants us to grow spiritually, mentally, physically, and financially. There shouldn’t be a “better yesterday.” Each day and each year should bring us closer to who God created us to be.

So, how can we upgrade ourselves? For example, spiritually, I’m committed to studying the Bible and connecting with God more in prayer. I reflect on what I study, meditate on it, and intentionally apply His Word to my life. This has helped me draw closer to God, understand His mind and thoughts for me more clearly, and also equip me to help others around me grow in Christ.

Physically, I’m trying to exercise more and take care of the body He has given me. I’m also refining my financial plans and being intentional about my relationships.

What about you? In what ways can you improve and keep shining brighter and brighter in Christ?

God has called us to grow and move upward in every area of our lives. Let’s embrace this journey together!