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The world watched as a Gaza Hostage Release and Ceasefire, and nearly two years of relentless warfare gave way to an unexpected silence. Hamas released the final group of living Israeli hostages on Monday, marking what many have called a monumental turning point in a conflict that has cost thousands of lives, displaced millions, and shattered countless families across two nations. For believers watching from around the world, this moment demands more than political analysis, it demands theological reflection. As we witness the hostages returning home and the initial phases of a Trump-brokered peace plan unfold, we must ask ourselves: What does Scripture say about this moment? What is our responsibility as Christians? And perhaps most importantly, what does genuine peace actually look like? When the Captives Come Home: A Biblical Echo “The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because he hath anointed me to preach the gospel to the poor; he hath sent me to heal the brokenhearted, to preach deliverance to the captives, and recovering of sight to the blind, to set at liberty them that are bruised.” – Luke 4:18 There is something profoundly biblical about the release of captives. Throughout Scripture, the freeing of prisoners features prominently as an act of God’s mercy and a sign of His kingdom breaking into our world. When the Israelites were released from Egyptian slavery, it became the foundational story of their faith. When prisoners were released during Jesus’s earthly ministry, it symbolized spiritual liberation. But here’s what we must understand: the mere release of hostages, as essential and praiseworthy as it is – is only the beginning. True peace is not simply the cessation of violence; it’s the establishment of justice, healing, and reconciliation. Peace Without Justice Is Not Peace “For to us a child is born, to us a son is given… and he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. Of the greatness of his government and peace there will be no end.” – Isaiah 9:6-7 Let’s be honest about something the world often glosses over: you cannot have genuine, lasting peace without justice. The prophet Amos declared that justice must “roll on like a river, righteousness like a never-ending stream.” This wasn’t poetic language for Amos, it was a moral imperative. When families have lost loved ones, when entire neighborhoods have been reduced to rubble, when trauma has etched itself into the psyches of a generation, simply stopping the fighting doesn’t heal what’s been broken. A ceasefire can be a step toward peace, but peace itself requires something far deeper. This is where many Christians fall into a troubling trap: we celebrate the end of conflict while remaining silent about the injustices that created it. We’re called to do both – to work for peace AND to work for justice. Jesus wasn’t killed because He preached peace alone; He was crucified because He demanded justice for the oppressed and challenged the systems that perpetuated suffering. The Captors and the Captives: Whose Responsibility? “If anyone has material possessions and sees a brother or sister in need but has no pity on them, how can the love of God be in that person?” – 1 John 3:17 One thing that should deeply concern every believer is how we approach the moral complexity of this conflict. There’s a temptation in Christian circles to take absolute sides, to claim one group is entirely good and the other entirely evil. But Scripture warns us against such simplicity. Yes, hostages should be released. Taking innocent people captive is a grave moral evil. Full stop. There is no justification, no political framing that makes kidnapping and holding civilians acceptable. Those who took hostages bear moral responsibility for that action, and their release is a matter of basic human dignity. But, and this is crucial – the existence of hostages does not erase the suffering of Palestinians. The trauma of October 7 does not justify indiscriminate attacks on civilians. The desire for security does not sanctify the displacement of entire populations. Justice requires us to hold all parties accountable to the same moral standard. This is what the Bible calls wisdom, the ability to see complexity while holding fast to core moral principles. It’s the ability to say, “This was wrong AND that was wrong” without needing to construct a hierarchy of wrongs that allows us to excuse one side’s transgressions. On Being Peacemakers (Not Peace-Liars) “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God.” – Matthew 5:9 Jesus made a stunning promise: peacemakers would be called God’s children. But notice what He didn’t say. He didn’t bless “peacekeepers” or “people who avoid conflict.” He blessed peacemakers—people who actively work toward reconciliation, justice, and the healing of broken relationships. A true peacemaker does three things: First, they speak truth. They don’t minimize suffering or pretend atrocities didn’t happen because it’s politically expedient. They acknowledge the pain on all sides, even when that acknowledgment is uncomfortable or unpopular. Second, they work toward justice. Peacemakers understand that genuine peace cannot exist while injustice remains unaddressed. This might mean holding government leaders accountable. It might mean demanding investigations into war crimes. It might mean insisting that displaced peoples have the right to return to their homes or receive reparations. Justice and peace are not opposites; they’re partners. Third, they refuse to dehumanise. This is perhaps the hardest requirement. Even as we hold people accountable for their actions, we must remember that they are image-bearers of God. Palestinians, Israelis, Hamas fighters, Israeli soldiers, hostages, displaced familie – all are people for whom Christ died. All deserve to be treated with dignity. The Role of Believers in This Moment Here’s where I want to challenge every Christian reading this: What are you actually doing about this? Are you: Or are you simply choosing a political side and using Christianity to justify it? Because here’s the truth: the ceasefire doesn’t require much of us as believers. It requires political negotiations

Scripture Focus: Ephesians 2:8-9, Romans 11:6, Titus 3:5 There’s a battle raging in the heart of every person who has ever heard the gospel. It’s not a battle between good and evil, or even between faith and doubt. It’s a battle between two fundamentally different ways of understanding how a person gets right with God. On one side stands grace—God’s unmerited favor freely given to undeserving sinners. On the other side stands works—the human attempt to earn salvation through good deeds, religious rituals, and moral performance. This isn’t just a theological debate for seminary classrooms. This is the most practical, life-changing truth you’ll ever encounter. How you answer this question will determine whether you live in freedom or bondage, whether you experience peace or anxiety, whether you rest in God’s finished work or exhaust yourself trying to earn His approval. The tragedy is that most people, even many who call themselves Christians, are confused about this fundamental truth. They’ve mixed grace and works together, creating a gospel that sounds Christian but actually robs them of the very peace and assurance that salvation is meant to bring. The Human Heart’s Natural Religion Before we dive into what Scripture teaches, let’s be honest about what feels natural to us. Every human heart has the same instinctive response to the idea of salvation: “What must I do to be saved?” It’s the question the Philippian jailer asked Paul and Silas in Acts 16:30, and it’s the question that echoes in every human heart. We naturally think in terms of earning, deserving, and paying our way. When someone does something kind for us, we feel obligated to return the favor. When we make a mistake, we instinctively try to make up for it. This isn’t wrong in human relationships—it’s how society functions. But when we bring this same mindset to our relationship with God, we create a religion of works that is completely opposite to the gospel. The apostle Paul understood this human tendency better than anyone. Before his conversion, he was the epitome of a works-based religionist. In Philippians 3:4-6, he describes his impressive religious résumé: “circumcised on the eighth day, of the people of Israel, of the tribe of Benjamin, a Hebrew of Hebrews; as to the law, a Pharisee; as to zeal, a persecutor of the church; as to righteousness under the law, blameless.” If anyone could have earned salvation through works, it would have been Paul. But what did he conclude about all his religious achievements? “But whatever gain I had, I counted as loss for the sake of Christ” (Philippians 3:7). The Crystal Clear Teaching of Scripture Let’s settle this question once and for all by looking at what God’s Word actually teaches about salvation. The Bible is remarkably clear on this issue so clear that it’s impossible to misunderstand unless we’re actively trying to avoid the truth. Ephesians 2:8-9 gives us the most straightforward explanation: “For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, not a result of works, so that no one may boast.” Let’s break this down: Romans 11:6 drives the point home even more forcefully: “But if it is by grace, it is no longer on the basis of works; otherwise grace would no longer be grace.” Paul is saying that grace and works are mutually exclusive. If salvation depends on works, then it’s not grace. If it’s by grace, then works have no part in it. Titus 3:5 removes any remaining doubt: “He saved us, not because of works done by us in righteousness, but according to his own mercy, by the washing of regeneration and renewal of the Holy Spirit.” The Impossibility of Works-Based Salvation Why is God so adamant that salvation cannot be by works? Because works-based salvation is not just difficult—it’s impossible. Here’s why: God’s Standard is Perfection James 2:10 explains: “For whoever keeps the whole law but fails in one point has become accountable for all of it.” God’s standard isn’t “pretty good” or “better than average.” It’s absolute perfection. One sin—just one—makes you guilty of breaking God’s entire law. Our Righteousness is Filthy Rags Isaiah 64:6 gives us God’s evaluation of our best efforts: “We have all become like one who is unclean, and all our righteous deeds are like a polluted garment.” Even our very best works are utterly defiled in God’s sight. We Are Dead in Our Sins Ephesians 2:1 describes our spiritual condition before salvation: “And you were dead in the trespasses and sins.” Dead people can’t contribute to their own resurrection. A spiritually dead person cannot perform spiritually acceptable works. The Beautiful Truth About Grace Grace is not just God’s backup plan when our works fail. Grace is God’s primary plan, designed before the foundation of the world to demonstrate His love and bring Him maximum glory. Grace is Unmerited Favor The most basic definition of grace is “unmerited favor”—receiving something good that you don’t deserve. But biblical grace goes even deeper. It’s receiving the ultimate good (salvation and eternal life) while you deserved the ultimate bad (judgment and eternal death). Romans 5:8 captures this beautifully: “But God shows his love for us in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us.” Not after we cleaned up our act. Not after we proved we were worthy. While we were still sinners—actively rebelling against God—Christ died for us. Grace is Completely Free Romans 3:24 says we are “justified by his grace as a gift, through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus.” A gift that you have to pay for or work for isn’t really a gift—it’s a purchase or a wage. But salvation is a true gift, requiring no payment or work from the recipient. Grace Produces Works Here’s where many people get confused. They think that if salvation is by grace apart from works, then works don’t matter at all. But that’s not what Scripture teaches. Ephesians 2:10,

Whenever an aircraft crashes, the world reacts instantly. Grief, shock, fear. Yet the real work begins later – behind the scenes, guarded, deliberate, slow. Investigators piece together what happened, not to assign immediate blame, but to prevent it from happening again. In life, as Christians, we need to do something similar with our spiritual lives – especially after things fall apart. As we close our faith in flight series, we want to look at Crash Investigations – Learning from the Wreckage. Air India Flight 171: A Modern Tragedy Only days ago, Air India Flight 171, a Boeing 787 en route from Ahmedabad to London, crashed near the airport just seconds after takeoff. Of the 242 people on board, sadly only one survived, and lives were also lost on the ground. Investigators recovered both the flight-data and cockpit voice recorders, and are looking at possible engine failure, flap or gear issues, or weight distribution errors. However, final findings could take two to four years, as authorities pore over the data, interview crew, study maintenance records, and sift through debris . Be Patient for Truth Immediately after a crash, speculation floods news and social media. With this tragedy, early rumours blamed pilot error or maintenance lapses. Others pointed at flaps, overheating engines, or overloaded cargo . The danger is that if we lean on early theories, we may miss the actual issue. In our walks, we can be quick to believe the worst about ourselves or others, before we know the full story. What Our Spiritual “Black Box” Reveals Investigators rely on the black box—the flight recorder—to get the factual timeline in a crash. Spiritually, our black box is found in memory, Scripture, confession, and counsel. When we experience breakdowns—bitter relationships, sudden job loss, faith crises—it’s tempting to bury those memories. But God calls us to investigate. Ask hard questions: Honesty matters. Even the process of investigation is healing. Lessons That Lead to Change Aviation investigations lead to change: redesigned parts, new training, updated safety protocols. Pilots don’t climb back in if an unknown flaw lingers. As Christians, after a crash, something must change. It could be boundary-crossing habits, misaligned priorities, pride we excused. Or habits of bitterness or isolation. God invites us to recalibrate—through repentance, support, setting healthy limits, or seeking counselling. Hebrews 12:1 reminds us to “throw off everything that hinders”—not to shame us, but to set us free for the next season. Not All Crashes Are Our Fault Some Air India crashes relate to pilot error. Others, like this one, may involve mechanical failure or weather—factors beyond people’s direct control. Life works the same. A loved one dies. A disease strikes. The economy collapses. We didn’t cause it. And yet, God meets us in the wreckage. Job lost everything, yet he worshipped. His friends rushed to judge, but God was not silent or distant. Psalm 37:24 reminds us “Though he fall, he shall not be utterly cast down.” Facing trauma doesn’t negate faith. Rebuilding Before Takeoff After the investigation, aircraft are repaired, rechecked, recertified. Then they fly again—safer and stronger. So can we. Let’s commit to honest spiritual maintenance: Psalm 139:23–24 says, “Search me and know my heart,” opening the door for deep, lasting transformation. 🔑 Final Takeaways: Don’t Waste the Crash 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

Have you ever scrolled through your feed and wondered if something’s wrong with you because you’re still single? I’ve been there. It’s like the world is shouting “relationship goals” from every angle while you’re quietly asking God, “What about me?” Society has a funny way of turning singleness into a flaw when in reality, it can be one of the most purposeful seasons of your life. Singleness isn’t a waiting room. It’s not a punishment. It’s a chapter—sometimes quiet, sometimes stretching, but always meaningful. In this post, I want to share what I’ve learnt and continue to learn during this journey. Because if we let God lead, singleness becomes more than just a relationship status—it becomes preparation, healing, discovery, and purpose. 1. Singleness Is a Time to Seek God When you’re not pulled in different directions trying to serve others in a relationship, you have space to pour more into your walk with God. Paul actually talks about this in 1 Corinthians 7:32-35. He says that a single person is concerned with the Lord’s affairs, how they can please Him. Married people don’t have that same focus because their time is shared. This season is a rare opportunity to go deeper in prayer, to study the Word without distraction, to be still and hear God clearly. James 4:8 says, “Draw near to God, and He will draw near to you.” You won’t always have this kind of quiet in life, so make the most of it. 2. Use This Time to Grow Personal growth isn’t just for self-help books—it’s part of becoming the person God created you to be. One thing I’ve learnt is that becoming “the one” is just as important as waiting for “the one.” This means developing your gifts, getting your finances in order, healing from past wounds, building confidence, and discovering your calling. Proverbs 18:16 says, “A man’s gift makes room for him.” Your future isn’t on pause—you’re being positioned. 3. Time for Healing Let’s be real: all of us carry stuff from our past—heartbreak, abandonment, rejection, fear. And many people jump into relationships without healing. But singleness gives you the gift of space to address what’s broken. The old saying “Hurt people hurt people” is true. So why not take the time now to heal, to forgive, to lay it all before God and let Him restore you? Psalm 147:3 says, “He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds.” Let this season be your time of mending. 4. Singleness Isn’t a Curse – It’s Normal We’ve been conditioned to believe that if you’re single, something must be wrong. But the Bible is full of people who served God powerfully and were single. Jesus. Paul. Mary Magdalene. The list goes on. Marriage is a blessing, yes. But so is singleness. Don’t let people pressure you into relationships just to “look” fulfilled. You’re not less than. You’re not forgotten. You’re just in a different lane—and your lane still leads to purpose. 5. The Beauty of Purity Let’s talk about purity—yeah, that topic people tend to avoid. In a culture that normalises hookup culture, choosing purity can feel outdated. But it’s still God’s standard. 1 Thessalonians 4:3 says, “It is God’s will that you should be sanctified: that you should avoid sexual immorality.” Purity isn’t just about saving sex for marriage. It’s about honouring God with your body, your mind, and your decisions. It’s not easy, but it’s possible—with His help. 6. You Don’t Need to “Fix” Being Single If your singleness feels like something you need to fix, breathe. You’re not broken. You’re not falling behind. You’re not missing out on life. What if this is exactly where God wants you? Isaiah 40:31 reminds us, “But they that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength.” You’re not wasting time—you’re being strengthened. 7. Embrace the Freedom You can travel. You can serve. You can start a business. You can grow in your calling. The freedom that comes with singleness is a blessing. Paul even says in 1 Corinthians 7:7, “I wish that all of you were as I am”—he was talking about being single. Why? Because he had time and energy to focus completely on his mission. You’ve got room to build, move, grow—and that’s something to be excited about. 8. Don’t Settle – Set Standards Being single isn’t about desperation—it’s about discernment. Don’t let loneliness convince you to lower your standards. Singleness is the season where you decide what’s non-negotiable. When you know your value, you won’t settle for just any relationship. Proverbs 4:23 says, “Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it.” Guard it with standards. Guard it with prayer. Guard it with wisdom. Final Thoughts Singleness isn’t a side story—it’s a full chapter, and one worth living well. I’m learning to stop asking, “When will I find someone?” and start asking, “What is God doing in me right now?” Whether your season of singleness lasts months or years, it is still valuable, still God-ordained, and still full of purpose. So instead of rushing to the next stage, let’s live this one well. Let’s grow, heal, seek God, love ourselves, and build the life He’s calling us to. The right person will come at the right time, but don’t miss the beauty of what God is doing in you now. Singleness isn’t a punishment—it’s preparation. 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

When we think of leadership, we often think of visionaries, strategists, and those who command with authority. But one of the most influential leaders in history, King Solomon, offers a different perspective. His reign, marked by wisdom and prosperity, holds valuable lessons for leaders in every walk of life. Lets talk about the leadership lessons from King Solomon’s life. Here are the leadership lessons I learned from King Solomon’s life that can shape how we lead today: 1. Seek Wisdom Above All Else King Solomon is famously known for asking God for wisdom, not wealth or power, when given the opportunity to request anything he desired. His choice wasn’t just wise—it was strategic. Solomon knew that wisdom is the foundation of successful leadership. Wisdom gives you the ability to make informed decisions, see beyond the obvious, and handle complex situations with clarity. Proverbs 4:7 reminds us, “The beginning of wisdom is this: Get wisdom. Though it cost all you have, get understanding.” Learn more about Solomon’s request for wisdom Lesson for Leaders: As a leader, I’ve learned that having wisdom is more valuable than any resource. It helps you stay ahead, anticipate challenges, and make decisions that benefit not just yourself but those you lead. Whether you’re leading a team, a company, or even yourself, seeking wisdom—through learning, experience, and prayer—is a foundational principle. 2. Practice Discernment in Decision-Making One of Solomon’s most famous stories is the judgment of two mothers claiming the same child. His ability to discern the truth, even when the situation was clouded with emotion, shows us the power of discernment in leadership. Discernment is more than just knowledge—it’s the ability to judge well and choose wisely. Read more about Solomon’s discernment in decision-making Lesson for Leaders: In leadership, we face countless decisions that affect others. Some are straightforward, while others require more nuance. Solomon’s example shows that good leaders weigh their options carefully, seek understanding, and make choices that are just and right. I’ve found that discernment helps me navigate through the noise, focusing on what truly matters. 3. Surround Yourself with Wise Counselors Solomon was wise, but he wasn’t alone in his leadership. He understood the value of surrounding himself with advisors who offered guidance and insight. Proverbs 24:6 tells us, “With many advisers, victory is sure.” A great leader knows they don’t have all the answers—they rely on the collective wisdom of a trusted team. Learn more about the value of surrounding yourself with wise counselors Lesson for Leaders: I’ve learned that no matter how much experience I have, the counsel of others is invaluable. In business and life, surrounding yourself with people who challenge you, offer different perspectives, and provide honest feedback makes you a stronger, more well-rounded leader. It’s okay not to know everything. The key is knowing who to go to when you need advice. 4. Stay Humble, No Matter Your Success Solomon’s reign began in humility—he acknowledged his need for God’s help to lead such a great nation. But later in his life, as he gained power, his pride began to grow. This led to moral and spiritual decline, reminding us that humility is a critical trait in leadership. Read more about Solomon’s rise and fall Lesson for Leaders: Success can be intoxicating, but I’ve learned that staying humble is the only way to ensure long-term success. Humility allows you to stay grounded, focused, and open to growth. As leaders, we must constantly remind ourselves that our position is a privilege, not a right, and we should lead with gratitude and servitude. 5. Balance Ambition with Ethical Governance Solomon’s ambitious projects, like building the Temple, showed his visionary leadership. However, his later focus on luxury over the welfare of his people caused strain within his kingdom. This teaches us that ambition, when unchecked by ethical principles, can lead to downfall. Learn more about Solomon’s ambition and its consequences Lesson for Leaders: There’s nothing wrong with having big dreams and goals—after all, leaders are visionaries. But I’ve learned that ambition must always be balanced with ethics. Leadership is about serving others, not just achieving personal milestones. Staying committed to ethical governance means making decisions that prioritize the greater good over personal gain. 6. Learn From Mistakes Even the wisest leader is not immune to mistakes. Solomon’s later life was marked by decisions that led him away from his values, proving that leadership is a lifelong journey of learning. His life shows us that we must learn from both our successes and our failures. Read more about learning from Solomon’s successes and failures Lesson for Leaders: I’ve learned that reflecting on past decisions—good and bad—is critical for growth. No leader is perfect, but the best ones continuously evaluate their actions, learn from mistakes, and strive to do better. Leadership isn’t about being flawless; it’s about being teachable and resilient. 7. Guard Against Temptations Solomon’s downfall was largely due to temptations—his foreign wives, wealth, and power led him astray from his foundational principles. Temptation comes in many forms, and for leaders, it can be as simple as the desire for more power, more control, or more recognition. Learn more about guarding against temptations Lesson for Leaders: I’ve found that one of the hardest challenges in leadership is staying true to your core values when faced with temptations. Whether it’s the temptation to cut corners, compromise ethics, or pursue selfish gains, leaders must remain vigilant. Solomon’s life reminds us that a leader’s greatest enemy often comes from within—staying grounded in our values is what will ultimately sustain us. Conclusion: Leading Like Solomon King Solomon’s life is a masterclass in leadership. His wisdom, discernment, and ambition made him a great leader, but his pride and lack of self-discipline led to his downfall. What I’ve learned from his life is that leadership is a delicate balance. It’s about seeking wisdom, staying humble, surrounding yourself with the right people, and keeping your focus on ethical governance. As leaders today, we can learn from both Solomon’s

Let’s wrap up the Hero’s Journey. In our last post, we explored the first six steps of this epic adventure, looking through the lens of Pilgrim’s Progress. This book paints a vivid picture of the Christian life—a journey full of trials, triumphs, and lessons. As we continue, imagine yourself in Christian’s shoes. The path to Heaven, the Celestial City, mirrors our journey as believers. You might already be facing some of these steps, or they could be just around the corner. Either way, each one has something valuable to teach us about faith, perseverance, and hope. Step 7: The Innermost Cave Life has a way of throwing challenges at us when we least expect them. The “Innermost Cave” represents the hardest battles we face—those moments when everything feels dark and overwhelming. For Christian in Pilgrim’s Progress, this might be the Valley of the Shadow of Death. For us, it could be a personal struggle like overcoming an addiction, forgiving someone who hurt us, or learning to love ourselves despite our flaws. These moments push us to confront our deepest fears and rely fully on God. The good news? God promises to walk with us through every dark valley (Psalm 23:4). Even in the hardest times, He’s our strength and guide Psalm 23:4 – though I walk through the darkest valley, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me. Step 8: The Ordeal Just when you think the hardest part is over, another trial appears. The “Ordeal” is a test of faith—a challenging situation that feels like it could break you. The devil doesn’t give up easily. Even after we’ve overcome one challenge, he tries to attack us again, often when we least expect it. These ordeals can take many forms: battling temptation, facing condemnation, or enduring the loss of a loved one. In these moments, we must rely on God’s strength, not our own. Ephesians 6:11 reminds us to put on the full armor of God so we can stand firm against the enemy. With God, we can face even the toughest battles. Step 9: The Reward After every ordeal comes a reward. In Pilgrim’s Progress, Christian’s victories lead him closer to the Celestial City. For us, rewards might come in the form of restored peace, a renewed sense of purpose, or even unexpected blessings. God is faithful. He doesn’t leave our efforts unnoticed. Each victory strengthens our faith and prepares us for what’s next. But rewards aren’t just about the celebration – they remind us that our journey isn’t over yet. The next challenge is always around the corner, so we must stay grounded in God’s Word. Step 10: The Road Back Victory doesn’t mean the journey is finished. The “Road Back” is the path to the final destination, but it often comes with challenges. In life, the enemy doesn’t stop trying to derail us. Even after spiritual victories, there are pitfalls to avoid and distractions to overcome. The key is to keep our eyes fixed on Jesus. Hebrews 12:2 reminds us to focus on Him, the author and finisher of our faith. This stage teaches us to stay humble and dependent on God. No matter how far we’ve come, there’s always more to learn and growth ahead. Step 11: Resurrection This step represents a moment of ultimate testing—a “final exam” of sorts. It’s often the hardest challenge yet, requiring every ounce of faith, strength, and perseverance we have. In Pilgrim’s Progress, Christian faces his greatest trial before reaching the Celestial City. For us, these moments can feel like everything is falling apart. Maybe it’s a major life crisis or a spiritual battle that seems impossible to win. But here’s the hope: with God, resurrection is always possible. When we fall, He lifts us. When we’re weak, He makes us strong. And when we feel like we can’t go on, His grace is sufficient (2 Corinthians 12:9). Step 12: Return with the Elixir The journey ends with a glorious homecoming. For Christian, it’s the Celestial City—a place of eternal joy and peace. For believers, it’s Heaven, where we’ll be with God forever. This step reminds us of the ultimate goal. All the struggles, trials, and victories lead to this moment. Revelation 21:4 promises a place where there’s no more pain, sorrow, and death. But until that day, we’re called to live with eternity in mind. Our journey doesn’t just impact us—it inspires others. When we share our stories, we give hope to those still walking their path. Conclusion The Hero’s Journey isn’t just a story—it’s a reflection of real life. Each step challenges us, grows us, and brings us closer to God. Like Christian in Pilgrim’s Progress, we all face valleys, battles, and moments of triumph. As you walk your journey, remember this: you’re never alone. God is with you every step of the way, guiding you toward the Celestial City. Keep pressing on, and don’t lose sight of the ultimate reward—eternal life with 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

Deciding to accept Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior is a life-changing moment. It is a choice that impacts your life now and for eternity. Hebrews 9:27 reminds us, “the end of every man’s life will bring judgment.” Christianity is more than a religion; it is about building a deep, personal relationship with God. If you’re wondering why you should become a Christian, here are some powerful reasons. 1. Discover God’s Plan for Your Life No matter your past, God’s salvation is for everyone. 2 Peter 3:9 says God is patient, wanting everyone to repent and be saved. Jesus Christ’s death on the cross opens the way for us to reconcile with God and gain eternal life. Your journey is part of God’s plan. Accepting His grace means becoming part of a loving, purposeful, and redeeming design. Moreover, God’s plan for your life is unique. He has specific purposes just for you. Embracing Christianity means walking in these divine purposes. It means living a life filled with meaning and direction. With God, every step of your journey is guided and purposeful. 2. Find Rest for Your Soul Jeremiah 6:16 encourages us to seek the old, godly way for true rest – something only found through Jesus Christ. Salvation is crucial not just for you, but for sharing the life-changing message with others. In a world full of chaos and uncertainty, finding rest for your soul in Christ offers a steady anchor, a peaceful sanctuary amid life’s storms. In addition, this rest brings profound peace. The peace that surpasses all understanding, as mentioned in Philippians 4:7. Imagine living a life where anxiety and fear have no power. A life where peace is your constant companion. This is possible through a relationship with Jesus. 3. Experience True Joy Phillipians 1: 21 For to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain. Philippians 1:21 assures us that those who know God need not fear even death. Life’s challenges become chances to strengthen your faith (James 1:2). The joy of trusting God through tough times is unmatched. On your faith journey, you’ll find that true joy is constant, rooted in the unshakeable knowledge that God is with you, guiding you through valleys and celebrating with you on mountaintops. Furthermore, this joy is not dependent on circumstances. It’s a joy that remains even in trials. This is because it’s based on your relationship with God. As you grow closer to Him, your joy deepens. It’s a joy that comes from knowing you are loved and valued by the Creator. 4. Enjoy the Benefits of Being with God Salvation doesn’t mean a challenge-free life, but with God, you’re never alone. Psalm 103:2 tells us to praise the Lord for all His blessings, and Deuteronomy 31:8 promises His constant presence and guidance. Walking with God brings you the richness of His love, the comfort of His presence, and the assurance that His plans for you are filled with hope and purpose. The benefits of being with God are endless. He provides strength when you are weak. He offers comfort when you are hurting. His presence brings hope in the darkest times. Moreover, God’s guidance leads you to paths of righteousness and blessings. You are never without help or direction when you walk with God. 5. Strengthen Your Community and Impact the World When you accept Jesus Christ, you become part of a global community of believers. This community offers support, encouragement, and love. You’ll be surrounded by people who share your faith and values, and together you can make a significant impact on the world. By performing acts of kindness, participating in charity, and sharing the message of God’s salvation, you contribute to making the world a better place. Conclusion Choosing Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior isn’t just a decision; it’s a transformative journey. You’ll find rest for your soul and unlock the countless blessings of being a child of God. Remember Dwight L. Moody’s wise words: “Give your life to God; he can do more with it than you can!” Accepting Christ means stepping into a life of peace, joy, purpose, and community. It’s the best decision you’ll ever make. 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