Inspirational

a man standing on a trail in the woods

5 Life Lessons from Pilgrim’s Progress – Journey to Heaven Beyond Salvation

What if your faith was the only thing standing between you and your destiny? What if, like Christian in Pilgrim’s Progress, you had to risk everything to reach the Celestial City, a symbol of Heaven? This powerful allegory, written by John Bunyan, still speaks to us today with its timeless lessons. In the film Pilgrim’s Progress: Journey to Heaven, we follow Christian as he faces doubts, temptations, and life-changing decisions on his journey toward eternal glory. His path, filled with both struggles and triumphs, mirrors the journey of every believer who has wrestled with challenges and pressed on in faith. Let’s dive into 5 life lessons from Pilgrim’s Progress that can inspire and strengthen our own spiritual walk. “To go back is nothing but death; to go forward is fear of death, and life everlasting beyond it. I will yet go forward.”― John Bunyan, The Pilgrim’s Progress This movie isn’t just entertainment; it’s a wake-up call to the challenges and triumphs of a life of faith. Let’s dive into five profound lessons from Christian’s journey that each of us can carry forward, from the importance of strong faith to the invaluable role of friendship. The Story of Pilgrim’s Progress At the heart of Pilgrim’s Progress lies Christian’s mission to escape the weight of his sins and find salvation. Setting out with nothing but a book and a heavy burden, Christian faces a path that mirrors the struggles every believer encounters—doubt, temptation, and the unrelenting call of distractions. Yet, his courage, perseverance, and faith become his armor as he moves closer to the Celestial City. Each experience reflects the highs and lows of the Christian walk and the relentless hope of finding rest and freedom in God. Lesson 1: The Journey of Faith Embracing Faith as Our Compass Faith, the beginning of Christian’s journey, mirrors our own spiritual beginnings. He is given guidance by Evangelist, a wise figure who assures him that trust in God can release him from his burdens. This reflects our own need to step out in faith, trusting that God has a plan for each of us, even when it’s hard to see. Pilgrim’s Progress reminds us that embracing faith is both our starting point and our compass. “For what saith the scripture? Abraham believed God, and it was counted unto him for righteousness.” — Romans 4:3 Faith to Overcome Challenges As he presses on, Christian faces countless challenges, including the Swamp of Despond and the Valley of the Shadow of Death. Yet, despite his struggles, he trusts in God’s presence, which enables him to persevere. Like Christian, we too encounter overwhelming situations, and our faith becomes the light that guides us through. “For I am the LORD your God who takes hold of your right hand and says to you, Do not fear; I will help you.” — Isaiah 41:13 Lesson 2: The Power of Perseverance Never Giving Up In his quest, Christian faces numerous temptations to quit, especially when captured by Giant Despair. Yet, he perseveres, encouraged by his companion Hopeful. This lesson illustrates that while despair may visit, our calling as Christians is to persevere, assured that God’s strength will sustain us. “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” — 2 Corinthians 12:9 Finding God’s Strength in Hardships From fighting the demon Apollyon to resisting temptations, Christian learns that hardship is part of his journey. This perseverance becomes a spiritual discipline, and through each struggle, he grows stronger. Like Christian, our trials are often God’s way of strengthening our character and refining our faith. “Therefore, take unto you the whole armor of God, that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day and, having done all, to stand.” — Ephesians 6:13 Lesson 3: The Importance of Friendship Building Supportive Friendships On his journey, Christian is accompanied by friends like Faithful and Hopeful, who encourage and support him. When Faithful is martyred for his faith and Hopeful helps him escape despair, we’re reminded of the vital role that fellowship plays in our lives. Strong friendships uplift us in moments of struggle and keep us accountable on our spiritual journey. “As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another.” — Proverbs 27:17 Supporting Each Other Through Tough Times When captured by Giant Despair, it’s Hopeful’s words that pull Christian from the depths of despair. This powerful scene illustrates how true friends provide encouragement when we’re at our lowest, keeping us aligned with God’s promises. Lesson 4: Learning from Mistakes Acknowledging and Growing from Errors Christian’s journey is marked by moments of failure, like when he listens to Mr. Worldly Wiseman and strays off course. Yet, he learns from these mistakes, turning back and repenting. His humility teaches us that acknowledging our errors and seeking God’s forgiveness is essential for spiritual growth. “If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.” — 1 John 1:9 Growing Through Repentance Through Christian’s mistakes, we see God’s grace at work. Each time he repents, he gains a renewed sense of purpose and moves closer to his goal. Similarly, our missteps allow God to work within us, transforming our hearts. “If my people who are called by my name will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their evil ways, I will hear from heaven and forgive their sins and heal their land.” — 2 Chronicles 7:14 Lesson 5: The Reward of Eternal Life Reaching the Celestial City After enduring hardships, Christian finally arrives at the Celestial City, symbolizing Heaven. His arrival reminds us that eternal life is the reward for a life of faith and perseverance. The journey may be difficult, but the promise of eternity with God makes it all worth it. “To him that overcometh will I grant to sit with me in my throne, even as I also overcame, and am set down with my Father in his throne.” — Revelation 3:21 Finding Everlasting Joy Upon

5 Life Lessons from Pilgrim’s Progress – Journey to Heaven Beyond Salvation Read More »

8

Top 7 Bible Life Lessons That Will Transform Your Life Today

Looking for life-changing Bible lessons? Discover 7 powerful Bible study topics that will transform your perspective on forgiveness, faith, and finding purpose. Perfect for adults, teens, and Sunday school lessons. As humans, we constantly seek wisdom and guidance to navigate life’s challenges. The Bible contains a wealth of practical wisdom and life-changing insights that can transform how we approach relationships, adversity, and personal growth. Whether you’re leading Bible study lessons for adults, searching for meaningful Sunday school topics, or simply wanting to dive deeper into what the Bible teaches about life, these 7 essential Bible lessons offer timeless truths for everyone. These biblical life lessons aren’t just theoretical concepts—they’re practical principles that can revolutionize your daily experience, no matter your religious background or life circumstances. Why These Bible Life Lessons Matter Today Before diving into the specific lessons, it’s important to understand that these biblical teachings address universal human experiences. From dealing with difficult relationships to finding purpose in suffering, the Bible provides practical guidance that has helped millions navigate life’s complexities for thousands of years. Lesson 1: The Life-Changing Power of Forgiveness Key Bible Study Focus: Understanding forgiveness as both a command and a gift to ourselves Forgiveness stands as one of the most transformative Bible life lessons. In Matthew 18:21-22, when Peter asks Jesus about forgiving someone “up to seven times,” Jesus responds with a radical answer: “I do not say to you, up to seven times, but up to seventy times seven.” “Jesus answered, ‘I tell you, not seven times, but seventy-seven times.’” – Matthew 18:22 NIV This isn’t about keeping count—it’s about embracing a lifestyle of forgiveness. Modern psychology confirms what the Bible has taught for millennia: holding onto anger and resentment creates physical and emotional stress, while forgiveness brings measurable health benefits and emotional freedom. Practical Application for Bible Study Groups: For Leaders: Use this as a powerful topic for adult Bible study lessons about emotional healing Discussion Question: Who in your life do you need to forgive today? How has unforgiveness affected your well-being? Action Step: Write a letter (even if you don’t send it) expressing your feelings, then take a step toward releasing the hurt To learn more about the significance of forgiveness, check out these Bible verses on forgiveness. Lesson 2: The Strength Found in Biblical Humility Key Bible Study Focus: How humility creates stronger relationships and opens us to learning Biblical humility isn’t about thinking less of yourself—it’s about thinking of yourself less. Philippians 2:3-4 provides the blueprint: “Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility, value others above yourselves, not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others.” “Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others.” – Philippians 2:3-4 NIV True humility opens us to learning from others and creates space for genuine connection. In our social media-driven culture, this biblical principle offers a counter-cultural approach to relationships that builds trust and respect. Study Questions for Adult Bible Lessons: For Sunday School: This lesson works excellently for discussing leadership and service Reflection: When have you seen humility strengthen a relationship in your life? Challenge: This week, practice asking for others’ opinions and helping someone without seeking recognition To explore more on humility, visit this resource on biblical humility. Lesson 3: The Biblical Foundation of Perseverance Key Bible Study Focus: How trials develop character and spiritual maturity James 1:2-4 presents a revolutionary perspective on difficulties: “Consider it pure joy whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.” “Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.” – James 1:4 NIV This Bible lesson teaches us that challenges aren’t obstacles to avoid—they’re opportunities for growth. Modern research on resilience confirms that people who learn to persevere through difficulties develop stronger coping skills and greater life satisfaction. Bible Study Discussion Points: Practical Application: When facing current trials, remember past victories and God’s faithfulness Personal Reflection: Write about a challenge you’ve overcome and the lessons you learned Group Activity: Share stories of perseverance and identify common themes For verses that inspire perseverance, check out these Bible verses to build perseverance of faith. Lesson 4: Understanding Biblical Faith in Daily Life Key Bible Study Focus: Practical faith that transforms how we approach uncertainty Hebrews 11:1 defines faith as “confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see.” Biblical faith isn’t blind optimism—it’s confident trust in God’s character based on His proven faithfulness throughout history. “Now faith is confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see.” – Hebrews 11:1 NIV This lesson teaches us that faith provides stability in an uncertain world. When we trust in God’s goodness and sovereignty, we can face unknown futures with peace rather than anxiety. Practical Faith-Building Activities: Reflection: Journal about times when faith has sustained you through difficult seasons Daily Practice: Commit to daily prayer and scripture reading Community: Join a faith-based study group for encouragement and accountability To understand more about the nature of faith, visit this guide on what faith is. Lesson 5: The Transformative Power of Biblical Love Key Bible Study Focus: Love as action, not just emotion The Christian journey centers on love. As John 3:16 declares God’s love for the world, 1 Corinthians 13:13 reminds us: “And now these three remain: faith, hope and love. But the greatest of these is love.” “And now these three remain: faith, hope and love. But the greatest of these is love.” – 1 Corinthians 13:13 NIV Biblical love transcends feelings—it’s a commitment to act in others’ best interests. This lesson transforms relationships by shifting our focus from what we can get to what we can give. Love in Action Bible Study Ideas: Service Project: Organize group volunteer opportunities to practice sacrificial love Challenge: Perform one act of

Top 7 Bible Life Lessons That Will Transform Your Life Today Read More »

man, smartphone, mobile-1718099.jpg

Top 5 Must-Have Christian Apps to Strengthen Your Faith

Are you looking for ways to stay grounded in your faith while navigating a tech-driven world? With the right tools, technology can be an ally in growing closer to God. Here, I’ve compiled my top five must-have Christian apps – each designed to bring you closer to Christ, deepen your understanding of the Bible, and connect you with other believers worldwide. Let’s dive into the best Christian apps every believer should have! 1. YouVersion: Your Digital Bible Companion Among the countless Bible apps available, YouVersion stands out as a powerhouse for daily spiritual nourishment. As of now, this app has been installed over half a billion times globally, proving its popularity and reliability. Key Features of YouVersion: If you’re looking for a versatile Bible app that offers structure, community, and variety, YouVersion is your go-to. And it’s all completely free, without any ads to interrupt your focus. You’ll find everything you need to start or continue a rewarding Bible reading habit with YouVersion! 2. Abide: Christian Meditation for Peace of Mind Mental health has become a pressing issue, and it’s no surprise that even Christians are turning to mindfulness and meditation to cope. While there are many popular meditation apps, Abide is one that specifically serves believers by integrating faith-based meditation and reflections on Scripture. Why Abide is Unique: Abide is an excellent app for any believer looking to integrate mental wellness into their spiritual life. Download Abide and take a few moments each day to meditate on God’s Word. 3. Podcast Apps: Learn and Grow on the Go Podcasts have become a popular way for Christians to gain insights on various topics, from theology to practical life advice. With apps like Spotify and Google Podcasts, you can explore countless Christian podcasts that offer wisdom and guidance. Why Podcasts Are a Must-Have: By incorporating Christian podcasts into your day, you’re making the most of the moments you have. It’s easy to fit learning about faith into your life—even in those spare moments. 4. Slowly: Connecting with Christians Worldwide In today’s world of instant messaging, Slowly brings back the art of letter-writing. It’s a unique way to connect with people globally, including fellow believers, through thoughtful letters that take time to reach their destinations, depending on the geographical distance. Highlights of the Slowly App: Slowly fosters patience and allows you to dive deeper into meaningful conversations, just like a pen pal but with a modern twist. Download it, connect with others, and share your journey of faith across the miles. 5. ChristianAudio: The Go-To for Faith-Based Audiobooks ChristianAudio is often called the “Audible for Christians,” and it lives up to that title. With thousands of faith-based audiobooks, devotionals, and Bible readings, it’s a treasure trove of Christian literature available at your fingertips. Features to Enjoy with ChristianAudio: ChristianAudio has become a favorite resource for growing my knowledge and strengthening my faith. Consider signing up and using the free trial to see what it has to offer. Bible Inspiration: “All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness.” – 2 Timothy 3:16 Conclusion: Let These Apps Guide Your Faith Journey Technology can be a powerful ally in your faith journey. From Bible study to meditation, and connecting with others, these apps make it easier than ever to keep Christ at the center of your life. Knowledge alone isn’t power—it’s potential power only if you put it into action. I encourage you to explore these apps and see which ones enhance your walk with God. If you enjoyed this list, don’t miss my post on Top 10 Christian Apps for Spiritual Growth in 2024 for more apps to aid you on your spiritual journey. Each of these apps has played a role in helping me deepen my spiritual life. May they bless and enrich yours as well. John TholeJohn Thole is the voice behind Beyond Salvation, a blog that captures the highs and lows of life through faith, laughter, and honest reflection. With a passion for storytelling, technology, and spiritual growth, he creates content that resonates with seekers, believers, and anyone navigating life’s journey. Whether sharing personal insights, devotionals, or thought-provoking discussions, John aims to inspire, uplift, and spark meaningful conversations. johnthole.co.za

Top 5 Must-Have Christian Apps to Strengthen Your Faith Read More »

john price RAZQiZOX3mU unsplash 1

7 Things I Wish I Knew Before Becoming a Christian

Becoming a Christian is a life-changing decision. Accepting Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior is the most important choice you’ll ever make, but there are things I wish I had known before starting this journey. It’s not just about accepting Jesus—it’s about understanding the dynamics of being part of a church, the spiritual battles, and the personal growth that follows. Here are 7 things I wish I had known before I became a Christian. 1. Christians Are Not Superhuman Proverbs 24:16 – “For though the righteous fall seven times, they rise again, but the wicked stumble when calamity strikes.” The world often holds an unrealistic and critical view of Christians, expecting them to be perfect. This same perception can creep into our own expectations when we first join the church. However, Christians are far from perfect. The church is often referred to as a “hospital for sinners,” and this analogy is accurate. Joining the church doesn’t mean that everyone you meet is holy or has it all together. People are on different parts of their journey with God, and we all have struggles. It’s essential to remember that we are all sinners saved by grace, and the church should be a place where it’s safe to be vulnerable and allow Christ to work on us. 2. Pastors Are People Too 2 Samuel 11:2 – “One evening David got up from his bed and walked around on the roof of the palace. From the roof, he saw a woman bathing. The woman was very beautiful.” Many people place pastors and church leaders on pedestals, almost viewing them as infallible. But pastors are human, too, and they face the same struggles and temptations as everyone else. Just because they hold leadership positions doesn’t mean they are immune to weakness. Even King David, described as a man after God’s own heart, fell into temptation and sinned. It’s important to have grace for church leaders, recognizing that they are also on their own spiritual journey. The expectation of perfection can lead to disappointment, and it’s healthier to remember that God works through broken vessels, including pastors. 3. He Saved My Soul, Not My Heart Instantly Psalm 116:8 – “For you, Lord, have delivered me from death, my eyes from tears, my feet from stumbling.” When I first accepted Christ, I had unrealistic expectations of immediate transformation. I thought that becoming a Christian meant that my heart would instantly be free from all sinful desires and struggles. While I have heard stories of people being delivered from addictions or bad habits overnight, that wasn’t my experience, and it’s not for many others. Salvation is just the beginning of a lifelong process. Sanctification—the process of becoming more like Christ—takes time. We are all works in progress, and God works on each of us at different paces. As Philippians 1:6 says, “He who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.” 4. There Are Wolves Among the Sheep Matthew 7:15 – “Watch out for false prophets. They come to you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly they are ferocious wolves.” One of the biggest lessons I learned is that not everyone who claims to be a Christian or a man of God truly follows Jesus. The Bible warns us about false prophets—people who appear to be godly but have ulterior motives. Just because someone can perform miracles or prophesy doesn’t mean they are genuinely following Christ. Matthew 7:22 says, “Many will say to me on that day, ‘Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in your name and in your name drive out demons and in your name perform many miracles?’” It’s crucial to be vigilant and to test the teachings and behaviors of leaders against the scriptures. Acts 17:11 encourages believers to “examine the scriptures every day to see if what [they] said was true.” Not every spiritual leader has your best interests at heart, so it’s important to remain discerning. 5. The Church Is Like a Hospital Matthew 11:28 – “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.” I used to believe that everyone in church was pursuing God with the same intensity, but the truth is, just like in a hospital, people come to church at different stages of their spiritual journey. Some are healed, while others are still seeking treatment. Not every person in the church is chasing after Christ, and some may still be struggling with worldly things. Just as patients in a hospital recover at different speeds, so do Christians as they grow in faith. This realization has made it easier for me to be gracious toward others and recognize that we are all in need of a Savior, walking different paths toward Him. 6. Serving God Isn’t Always Easy Luke 9:23 – “Then he said to them all: ‘Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross daily and follow me.’” One of the things I wish I had known is that serving God isn’t always comfortable. Accepting Jesus as your Lord and Savior is the beginning of a new life, but it doesn’t mean life becomes free of challenges. In fact, Jesus tells us that we must take up our cross daily if we want to follow Him. There will be sacrifices, and you might face rejection or opposition, even from family and friends. However, this journey is rewarding. Through the trials, God refines us, and our faith grows deeper. Trusting Him through the hard times leads to spiritual maturity and a closer relationship with Him. 7. It’s About a Relationship, Not Just Religion John 15:5 – “I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing.” One of the most critical things I wish I had known is that Christianity is more than just following a set of religious rules. It’s about having a personal relationship with God. Many people, including myself when I first became a Christian, focus on doing all

7 Things I Wish I Knew Before Becoming a Christian Read More »

bible page on gray concrete surface

5 Uplifting Bible Verses to Start Fresh with Faith

A new year is a chance to reset, renew, and refocus on what truly matters. It’s a time to reflect on where we’ve been, make adjustments, and turn our hearts toward God’s plans for us. These five Bible verses offer timeless wisdom and encouragement to guide you into the new year with faith and confidence. Let these words of scripture inspire you to let go of past worries, choose positive influences, and embrace God’s love and purpose for your life. 1. Philippians 4:6-7: Embrace Peace Over Anxiety “Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.” — Philippians 4:6-7 The start of a new year often brings mixed emotions. We’re excited about fresh opportunities, but we also face fears and doubts about what lies ahead. Apostle Paul’s words remind us that we don’t have to carry these burdens alone. When we bring our concerns to God, trusting in His guidance, we can find a peace that doesn’t rely on knowing all the answers. Consider starting a new year tradition of intentional prayer, where you list your worries, dreams, and goals, surrendering each one to God. In times of stress, reread these verses and let them remind you to trust in Him rather than trying to control every outcome. God’s peace is a gift, and it’s available to anyone who asks. 2. 1 Corinthians 15:33: Choose Your Company Wisely “Do not be misled: ‘Bad company corrupts good character.’” — 1 Corinthians 15:33 It’s often said that we become like the five people we spend the most time with. This new year is an opportunity to reflect on your circle of influence. Do the people around you encourage your faith, support your dreams, and inspire you to be better? Or do they draw you away from your values? Choosing godly relationships helps us grow in character and faith. Proverbs 13:20 says, “Walk with the wise and become wise, for a companion of fools suffers harm.” Reflect on who you spend time with and whether these friendships help or hinder your walk with Christ. This might mean distancing yourself from certain people or seeking out mentors who can encourage your spiritual journey. 3. Jeremiah 6:16: Reflect on Your Path “This is what the LORD says: ‘Stop at the crossroads and look around. Ask for the old, godly way, and walk in it. Travel its path, and you will find rest for your souls.’” — Jeremiah 6:16 The new year is a perfect time to pause and evaluate your spiritual journey. In today’s culture, trends can influence every part of our lives, even our faith. Jeremiah’s words are a call to return to God’s timeless truths. Have you drifted off course? Are there areas in your spiritual life that need renewal? Imagine your walk with God like traveling a road. As we progress, we’re often tempted to stray, choosing shortcuts or paths that seem easier but lead us away from God’s truth. This year, take time to pray and ask God to reveal the areas where you might have drifted, and ask Him to lead you back to His way. 4. Deuteronomy 30:19: Make Choices That Bring Life “This day I call the heavens and the earth as witnesses against you that I have set before you life and death, blessings and curses. Now choose life, so that you and your children may live.” — Deuteronomy 30:19 God has given us the freedom to choose our actions, but each choice comes with consequences. Deuteronomy 30:19 is a powerful reminder that our decisions can lead to life and blessings or to setbacks and struggles. Choosing life doesn’t just mean choosing a good or successful path; it means choosing God’s way. As you set your goals for the new year, pray for wisdom to make godly decisions. Think about the impact of your choices—not only on yourself but also on your family, friends, and future. This verse calls us to embrace a mindset of intentionality, to choose actions that bring life, joy, and blessings to those around us. 5. Jeremiah 29:11: Trust in God’s Plan for You “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” — Jeremiah 29:11 It’s natural to wonder what the future holds. Will this year bring success, happiness, or challenges? Jeremiah 29:11 is a reminder that God’s plans for us are always filled with hope. Even in difficult times, we can trust that He is working all things together for our good. This verse isn’t a promise of an easy life but a reassurance that God’s intentions for us are always rooted in love. Reflect on past experiences where God guided you through a tough situation. As you enter the new year, remember that God is with you in every season. Trust His timing, and let your faith lead you forward. Conclusion: Steps to Embrace God’s Word This Year As you embark on a new year, think of these Bible verses as anchors for your soul. Here are a few ways to put these scriptures into action: Each of these verses reminds us that God has a purpose for our lives, a peace that surpasses all understanding, and a love that never fails. Let His word guide you through this year, giving you strength and hope with each step. And remember: whatever comes, you are never alone – God is with you, and He has a plan just for you. John TholeJohn Thole is the voice behind Beyond Salvation, a blog that captures the highs and lows of life through faith, laughter, and honest reflection. With a passion for storytelling, technology, and spiritual growth, he creates content that resonates with seekers, believers, and anyone navigating life’s journey. Whether sharing personal insights, devotionals, or thought-provoking discussions,

5 Uplifting Bible Verses to Start Fresh with Faith Read More »

globe trotter, traveller, globe-1828079.jpg

The only 3 things you need to change the world

Wanting to change the world has become more of a cliché nowadays. Most people use lack of money as an excuse for why they are not making an impact in the world. If we had money or power, we would change the world or at least do better than our current leadership. Today, I want to share with you the only three things you need to change the world. 1. Kindness I remember four years ago going to work my first job as a gardener. Being new to a foreign country, I was going through one of the darkest periods of my life, feeling unworthy and unlovable. On the first day of work, I met my boss who told me I was too young to be a gardener. Moreover, she began assisting me with my studies to land a better job. During the following weeks, I met her daughter, an 11-year-old child at the time named Jessica. She used to hug me every time I arrived for work. The hug from a child made me feel loved and valued. A hug and a few words of encouragement may be worth less to you but they can change someone’s world. Even the smallest act of kindness can inspire hope in other people’s lives. What starts here can change the world. 2. Accept Christ into your life Kindness is a good thing but it is not enough to change the world. The human heart is the most deceitful of all things – Jeremiah 17: 9. We need a way to keep it in check. Good intentions alone are not enough, we need to surrender our hearts to Christ. Prayer and the word of God has the power to move mountains and transform cities. “Give your life to God; he can do more with it than you can!” by Dwight L Moody. There will be those who take advantage of our kindness. We need the love of God to preserve and not lose hearts. 3. Be a loving person The world has a shortage of loving, genuine, and sincere people. As Apostle Joshua Selman would put it, Genuine people are scarce. Be the diamond in the rough, spreading love to those around you. Most of the time, you don’t need to touch someone on the other side of the world. But if you can touch and change the lives of those in your reach. They, in turn, spread the love to those in their reach. What starts here changes the world. Conclusion Money is not all you need to change the world. If you have any of the three things mentioned above, it becomes a catalyst on your journey to change the world. No matter how talented you are, you alone can not change the world. When we come together with the above mentioned things, I guarantee that there is no heart or life we can fail to transform. John TholeJohn Thole is the voice behind Beyond Salvation, a blog that captures the highs and lows of life through faith, laughter, and honest reflection. With a passion for storytelling, technology, and spiritual growth, he creates content that resonates with seekers, believers, and anyone navigating life’s journey. Whether sharing personal insights, devotionals, or thought-provoking discussions, John aims to inspire, uplift, and spark meaningful conversations. johnthole.co.za

The only 3 things you need to change the world Read More »

open book, library, education-1428428.jpg

Be a student of life not a follower

“Take advice, but not orders. Seek other people’s advice, but don’t take orders, and don’t take 100% of anyone’s advice. Make sure every decision you make is a product of your conclusion. Be a student, not a disciple.” – Jim Rohn These words by Jim Rohn hold profound wisdom. Life is a classroom, and each of us is a student. The key is not to blindly follow others but to learn from them and make informed decisions that align with your values and beliefs. I firmly believe in the importance of being a student of life. That’s why in this post, I won’t ask you to follow everything I say or write on blindly. Instead, I encourage you to think critically, challenge what you read, and come to your own conclusions. Be a student of life, not just a follower. Ponder Before You Act The Bible offers a powerful example of this in Acts 17:11, which speaks of the Berean Jews: “Now the Berean Jews were of more noble character than those in Thessalonica, for they received the message with great eagerness and examined the Scriptures every day to see if what Paul said was true.” The Bereans didn’t take Paul’s teachings at face value. They examined the Scriptures for themselves, ensuring that what he said aligned with the truth. They were eager learners, but they verified the knowledge before accepting it. Similarly, I encourage you to study everything—whether it’s from me, your church, or any other source—and match it against the ultimate standard: the Word of God. Test Everything, Hold On to What’s True Just as Acts encourages us to seek knowledge, 1 John 4:1 urges us to test the spirits: “Dear friends, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits to see whether they are from God, because many false prophets have gone out into the world.” It’s essential to test everything you hear or read. False prophets and misguided information abound, even within Christian circles. Whether it’s your spiritual growth or worldly advice, be vigilant and ensure that every piece of knowledge you absorb aligns with God’s truth. We are all students on this journey, seeking to understand more of what’s right and true. But the final authority is always God’s Word. The Role of Critical Thinking in Faith Coming from a technical background, I often think in terms of conditional statements—”if-then” logic. Faith, in many ways, operates similarly. If you accept Jesus Christ as your Savior, then you’ll be transformed and walk in a new life. But the decision to accept Christ should come from a genuine, personal conviction, not from external pressure. I want to challenge you to stop, reflect, and make decisions that stem from a sincere belief in God’s Word. As Dale Carnegie said, “A man convinced against his will is of the same opinion still.” Forcing someone to believe something doesn’t lead to real transformation. Genuine faith comes from the heart, not just from following rules or teachings mindlessly. So, if you’re reading this, I encourage you to engage with the material critically. Don’t just read the words—think about them, pray over them, and seek God’s guidance. Don’t Take My Word for It—Verify with the Bible While I write these blog posts to inspire and challenge you, they are not the ultimate standard. The Bible is. That’s why I encourage you to study the Scriptures for yourself. As a Christian, I acknowledge that I am not perfect, and my writings are not flawless. But I hope they point you toward the ultimate truth found in God’s Word. Jesus said in John 17:17, “Sanctify them by the truth; your word is truth.” The Word of God is where we find true knowledge and wisdom for life. So, be diligent in your studies. Read, pray, and ask the Holy Spirit to reveal the truth to you. You will grow in knowledge, faith, and wisdom as you pursue God’s Word. The Next Steps for New Believers If you’ve recently accepted Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior, the next step is to dive into the Word. Find a Bible-believing church and get connected. Start studying the Bible to verify what you hear and read. As you grow in your faith, you will begin to discern the truth from falsehood more clearly. James 1:5 reminds us that wisdom is available to anyone who asks for it: “If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you.” God is willing to impart wisdom to anyone who seeks it. You don’t need to have all the answers right away. As you walk with Christ, He will guide you and give you the understanding you need for every step of the journey. Conclusion: Are You On the Right Track? At the end of the day, we are all students of life, and the lessons we learn shape our journey. The goal is not to follow blindly but to seek, understand, and grow. Whether it’s wisdom from Scripture or advice from mentors, always test it, think critically, and come to your own conclusions with God’s guidance. We are all on this journey together, seeking truth and growth. But the real question is: Are you on the right track? Have you taken the time to study the Word, reflect on it, and let it guide your path? If you’re ready to take the next step and deepen your walk with Christ, pray and seek God’s wisdom. He promises to guide you as you trust in Him. John TholeJohn Thole is the voice behind Beyond Salvation, a blog that captures the highs and lows of life through faith, laughter, and honest reflection. With a passion for storytelling, technology, and spiritual growth, he creates content that resonates with seekers, believers, and anyone navigating life’s journey. Whether sharing personal insights, devotionals, or thought-provoking discussions, John aims to inspire, uplift, and spark meaningful conversations. johnthole.co.za

Be a student of life not a follower Read More »

FREE BIBLE STUDY

Transform Your Bible Study

Get our comprehensive study guide delivered instantly to your inbox

  • 20+ Pages of comprehensive study materials
  • Flexible Formats - Individual, small group, or Sunday school
  • Discussion Questions at multiple depth levels
  • Leader Resources with detailed facilitation tips
  • Memory Verses for each lesson
  • Weekly Challenges with actionable steps

Get Your FREE Guide Now

Join our community and receive your guide instantly, plus helpful Bible study tips and new resources.

Instant delivery - Guide sent immediately
No spam - Only valuable content
Unsubscribe anytime - We respect your privacy

Join thousands of believers growing deeper in God's Word