Through the Hymns: Crown Him with Many Crowns

Hymns have played a significant role in Christian worship for centuries, conveying profound theological truths and providing a means for believers to express their faith. Among these timeless hymns, “Crown Him with Many Crowns” stands as a masterpiece that beautifully encapsulates the majesty and glory of Jesus Christ. In this blog, we will explore the rich history of this hymn and its deep connection to scripture.

A bit of a back story – the other morning, I woke and began singing “Arise my soul and sing, for Him who died for me!” Immediately, I recognized the hymn that this line came from, but the rest of the lyrics were not coming to me very quickly. Thank goodness I had my phone nearby so I could ask it to display the lyrics. As I proceeded to get out of bed, phone in hand, I sang the rest of the song as I began my morning and was struck by these powerful lyrics. I also realized it has been quite a while since my last Through the Hymns blog post. How perfect to do one of these posts again and focus on this hymn that is rich in lyrics and deeply rooted in scripture.

A Brief History of the Hymn

“Crown Him with Many Crowns” was penned in the mid-19th century by Matthew Bridges, an Anglican clergyman and later expanded upon by Godfrey Thring. The hymn’s inspiration is believed to have come from the book of Revelation, particularly Revelation 19:12, which describes Jesus with “many crowns” on His head. The hymn was first published in 1851 and quickly gained popularity within the Christian community.

His eyes are like a flame of fire, and on his head are many diadems, and he has a name written that no one knows but himself.

Revelation 19:12 ESV

The hymn contains multiple verses highlighting a different facet of Christ’s glory and reign. It invites believers to join in the celebration of Christ’s triumphant rule over all creation.

Crown Him with many crowns
The Lamb upon His throne.
Hark! How the heavenly anthem drowns
All music but its own.
Awake, my soul, and sing
Of Him who died for thee,
And hail Him as thy matchless King
Through all eternity.

Verse one focuses on the exalted status of Jesus as the Lamb upon His throne and the heavenly anthem surrounding Him. Did you catch the third and fourth lines? The anthem drowns all music but its own. There is no other music as edifying and exalting as this heavenly anthem. It reminds me of Revelation 4:8, where the living beings are singing day after day and night after night, “Holy, holy, holy is the Lord God Almighty.” I’m no longer someone who is guided by an emotional response when it comes to digging into scripture or sharing in my writing or speaking, but man… the goosies on my arms that appear whenever I consider just how incredible this is are overwhelming. I can’t think of a word that comes close to justly describing what this is like – WILL be like when we get to join these beings!

Therefore God has highly exalted Him and bestowed on Him the name that is above every name, so that in the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.

Philippians 2:9-11 ESV

Jesus, being fully divine, is worthy of all worship to the glory of God.

Crown Him the Lord of life,
Who triumphed o’er the grave,
And rose victorious in the strife
For those He came to save.
His glories now we sing,
Who died, and rose on high,
Who died eternal life to bring,
And lives that death may die.

Jesus is the conqueror of death and the source of eternal life to those who believe in Him. This verse encapsulates the core message of the Gospel – that through His death and resurrection, Jesus offers salvation, eternal life, and victory over sin and death to all who believe in Him. This is a profound declaration of faith and an invitation for believers to worship and celebrate the LORD OF LIFE who has TRIUMPHED over the grave for our salvation.

Jesus said to her, “I am the resurrection and the life. Whoever believes in me, though he die, yet shall he live, and everyone who lives an believes in me shall never die. Do you believe this?”

John 11:25-26 ESV

When the perishable puts ont he imperishable, and the mortal puts on immortality, then shall come to pass the saying that is written:
“Death is swallowed up in victory.”
“O death, where is your victory?
O death, where is your sting?”
The sting of death is sin, and the power of sin is the law. But thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.

1 Corinthians 15:54-57 ESV

Jesus is the resurrection and the life. All who believe in Him will have eternal life. His triumph over death is central to the Christian life. Jesus is victorious over the grave. Hallelujah and Amen!

Crown Him the Lord of peace,
Whose power a scepter sways
From pole to pole, that wars may cease,
And all be prayer and praise.
His reign shall know no end,
And round His pierced feet
Fair flowers of paradise extend
Their fragrance ever sweet.

Verse 3 of this hymn is not one I was familiar with. In my years attending the Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod, we may have sung this verse from the hymnal but, in my years of singing this at my current church or listening to recordings by contemporary Christian artists, I never heard this verse sung. And I ask – why the heck not???

This stanza highlights one of the titles and attributes of Jesus as the “Lord of peace” or the “Prince of Peace.” (Isaiah 9:6)

He will wipe away every tear from their eyes, and death shall be no more, neither shall there be mourning, no crying, nor pain anymore, for the former things have passed away.

Revelation 21:4 ESV

Crown Him the Lord of love!
Behold His hands and side –
Rich wounds, yet visible above
In beauty glorified.
No angel in the sky
Can fully bear that sight,
But downward bends His burning eye
At mysteries so bright.

I can’t help but think of Thomas when I sing this verse. In John 20, Jesus appears to His disciples, but Thomas wasn’t there initially. When the disciples told him about Jesus appearing, he said, “Unless I see in His hands the mark of the nails, and place my finger into the mark of the nails, and place my hand into His side, I will never believe.” (Verse 25)

Eight days later, Jesus appears again but He takes it up a notch. He enters the house even though the doors were locked and then, in verse 27, He says to Thomas, “Put your finger here, and see my hands; and put out your hand, and place it in my side. Do not disbelieve, but believe.”

Thomas believed because he saw and felt the pierced hands and side of his Savior, Jesus. Blessed are those who believe but have not seen! (John 20:29)

This verse of Crown Him with Many Crowns places a spotlight on the profound love of Jesus. It acknowledges Him as the Lord of love and highlights His sacrificial and selfless nature demonstrated through His death and resurrection. Believers are invited to contemplate the depth of Christ’s love and the profound mystery of salvation. This is a poignant reminder of the central message of Christianity – the love of Christ that led Him to the cross for the forgiveness of sins and reconciliation of humanity with God.

Crown Him the Lord of years,
The potentate of time,
Creator of the rolling spheres,
Ineffably sublime.
All hail, Redeemer, hail!
For thou hast died for me;
Thy praise and glory shall not fail
Throughout eternity.

This final verse exalts Jesus as the Lord of time and the Creator of the universe, emphasizing His eternal nature and the impact of His sacrifice.

He is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of all creation. For by Him all things were created, in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or dominions or rulers or authorities – all things were created through Him and for Him. And He is before all things, and in Him all things hold together.

Colossians 1:15-17 ESV

Christ is Lord of creation. Our Lord Jesus is the maker and upholder of all things in the universe.

Then I looked, and I heard around the throne and the living creatures and the elders the voice of many angels, numbering myriads of myriads and thousands of thousands, saying with a loud voice,
“Worthy is the Lamb who was slain,
to receive power and wealth and wisdom and might
and honor and glory and blessing!”
And I heard every creature in heaven and on earth and under the earth and in the sea, and all that is in them, saying,
“To Him who sits on the throne and to the Lamb
be blessing and honor and glory and might forever and ever!”

Revelation 5:11-13 ESV

What a beautiful magnification of the sovereignty of our Lord! This declaration of Christ’s supreme authority resonates deeply and affirms His unmatched greatness.

“Ineffably sublime” conveys that Jesus’ nature and attributes are beyond human comprehension. The qualities of Christ leave us in awe – the grandeur of His majesty is the focus of our worship. And worship of Him is never ending.

In closing, each stanza of this hymn beautiful weaves scripture into its verses, inviting us to worship Jesus Christ as the Lamb, the Conqueror of Death, the Lord of Peace, the Lord of Love, and the Eternal Creator of All Things. As we sing these words, we celebrate these Biblical truths and also deepen our understanding of the profound impact of Jesus’ life, death and resurrection.

Sing a Song to the One Who’s All I Need

Still, I will praise You.

As I sat at my little piano, my fingers clumsily hit the notes to a favorite worship song of mine. At first, it frustrated me that the wrong chords were being played sometimes or that I seemed to be stuck on just playing a regular chord and not feeling confident to play more but, as I sang, it didn’t matter. As I sang, I felt a familiar lump begin to form in my throat and there was no holding it in.

Though You slay me.

What does that even mean? Why am I singing a song about God slaying me? Isn’t that sort of violent? But as the lump gave way to weeping, that’s exactly what it felt like. God, in His sovereign way, was slaying me… again.

An easy way out for me would be to cry out asking, “Why again??? Haven’t I already dealt with this? Haven’t I already given this to you Lord??? Why must I find myself here in this place again???”

Slay. I took a moment to look up this word in the dictionary. It means to kill by violence and to destroy or extinguish. So, here I am, singing a song about God destroying me with violence. How soothing. How calm. How inviting. Just what a lovely worship moment needs to be about. God, though you destroy me, though you kill me, I will still praise You!

Maybe I should sing a different song.

Of course, the song isn’t literally about God killing us in a violent way but it sure has a lot to do with suffering. You see, in this exact moment, God confronted me with my sin. Yes, sin that I thought I had already dealt with but God just knows. He knows us better than ourselves and I’m so thankful for that. If I was left to my own devices, the slaying I would be experiencing wouldn’t be as healing and full of love.

There is so much to unpack here but, the area of sin that God has confronted me with tonight is the sin of frustration and lack of faith. Let’s go back in time for just a minute and bring some context to the present situation. In 1995, I had just graduated from high school and had dreams. As I filled out a little journal provided by the company that provided our cap and gowns, I came upon the page where it prompted me to record where I hoped to be in 5 years and in 10 years. I remember filling this section out vividly. In 5 years, I would graduate from college with a degree and be married or engaged. In 10 years, I would be working, married, and have a child or two.

As most young girls do (yes, most!) I had dreams about finding my future husband, getting married, and having children. I had even recorded in my little journal that even though I had a degree and would be working, I looked forward to staying home with the kids and supporting my husband. But, 5 years went by, and then 10 years, and I was not married. And I didn’t have any children. It was okay though because I was still young enough. In fact, in 2005, I was thankful I hadn’t gotten married yet because I wasn’t as strong of a Christian as I had become. So, God knew that and He was going to bring me the right man around this time. I just knew it.

But no. Another 10 years went by and then 8 years to this present day. I sit here typing to you as a still single woman with no children.

Why?

On a good day, my answer is full of confidence and trust in the Lord. This is His plan for me. Yes, I still grieve not getting married and not having children but, if this is God’s plan for my life then I will be faithful to Him.

On a not-so-good day, I weep and I wonder and I fail. What is wrong with me? Why hasn’t the right guy come along? Did he already and I missed out? Was it something I said? Is it how I look? Am I not attractive enough? Is it because of my poor choices? Am I not marriage material? Why did my hope of giving birth to children not happen? Was I too scared? What did I do wrong?

My life has felt like a yo-yo… or maybe a roller coaster… or maybe both. Well, it hasn’t been chaotic but, I definitely have highs and lows. There are seasons of being at peace and accepting the reality that God has placed me. I say to people, “I’m okay with where I’m at. I’m not looking for anyone and I can still serve the Lord no matter my marital or parental status. In fact, being single has its perks!” And I am telling the truth in those seasons. I really do feel that way and in the deepest places of my soul I know this to be true – God is purposeful and in control of my life. He will make a way for what HE wills in my life.

But those low seasons. The ones where I sit on my bed, in the dark, crying out to God with all honesty. “God, why? Did I do something wrong?”

Though you ruin me.

Has God ruined me? Is that why no man has found me worthy of pursuing? Did I sin too much and so I’m deemed unclean? Did God know I would be a horrible mother so, He prevented me from having children? Or maybe I was supposed to have children and I ruined things with my choices.

What does that even mean that God ruins me? I don’t think it’s the kind of “ruin” I think it is.

In those low moments, I know it’s my pride. It’s me trying to take control and resolve a situation that I think can be resolved. I’m practically desperate. Like a child who did something wrong and is desperately trying to figure out how to make things right. Is there still time to fix me? What if God could allow me to go back in time? Just this once!

I will bless Your Name.

How in the world can I bless HIS Name in the midst of my ruin?

Oh, hello pride. You are still here, aren’t you?

Yes, God slayed me. He ruined me. Because He knew, in His providential way and crazy enormous love for me, that I needed some serious humbling. Needed…. ha… as if this is a past-tense situation. This happens more times than I care to admit!

Yes, I’m going to bless His Name. Especially in these moments of humility – when God has taken my jar of pride and shattered it into a million pieces.

The song I chose to play and “sweep” through (sweep = sing and weep), may not be based on the following Psalm but it is a Psalm that came to mind anyway.

Psalm 27 is one that I had highlighted in my Bible many, many years ago. My good ole trusty NIV Study Bible! I remember writing down this Psalm, word for word, in a journal. This was a few years before I would completely surrender my life to Jesus. Yet, there was something about the words of this Psalm that captured me. Back then, I had no clue. Today, I read these words with fresh eyes and a heart that longs for nothing more than to be drawn closer to my Lord and Savior.

What does this Psalm have to do with anything I have shared so far?

GREAT question. I actually sat for a few minutes, hands clasped below my chin with furrowed brows wondering the same thing. I’m actually going to quote from my ESV Study Bible because it summarizes Psalm 27 so well and I don’t need to embellish it.

In singing Psalm 27, God’s people have a way of not simply expressing confidence in Him but of cultivating that confidence for the widest range of challenging life situations. The psalm uses several synonyms for “enemies (vv. 2, 6, 11, 12), giving it the concrete setting of a faithful person beset by those who would destroy him with bloodthirsty and deceitful means; one who can trust God inthose circumstances can trust Him in other situations as well.

ESV Study Bible, Psalm 27.

Verse 1. The LORD is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear? The LORD is the stronghold of my life; of whom shall I be afraid.

But I’m not afraid… exactly. Not quite. More like, disappointed. (Keep reading Melissa. By the way, this is me talking to me. Maybe with a little prompting from the Holy Spirit.)

Verse 2. When evildoers assail me to eat up my flesh, my adversaries and foes, it is they who stumble and fall.

But I’m not sure what I’m going through right now relates exactly to this. It’s not evildoers or adversaries or foes. It’s me. I think. (Keep reading Melissa!)

Verse 3. Though an enemy encamp against me, my heart shall not fear; though war arise against me, yet I will be confident.

But I don’t feel like there are enemies encamping around me. And, again, I’m not really afraid. I mean, I guess there is technically a spiritual battle going on around me. The enemy would love nothing more than to make me doubt and question Your love for me… … .. .. oh. (Yep, keep reading Melissa.)

Verse 4. One thing have I asked of the LORD, that will I seek after: that I may dwell in the house of the LORD all the days of my life, to gaze upon the beauty of the LORD and to inquire in His temple.

Wait, I’m supposed to become a nun? Wrong religion but… I’m starting to see how these verses might be relating to what I am sharing in this post. I’ll let the ESV footnotes explain again.

Shelter in His Sanctuary. “House of the LORD,” “temple,” “tent,” and “sacrifices” show that these verses focus on public worship; they view unhindered access to God’s presence in worship as the best of all gifts. This is the place of true delight and true safety.

ESV Study Bible, Psalm 27

Oh, how true those footnotes are. I do find true delight in worshipping with God’s people in the sanctuary. And even in my own room, sitting at my little piano, plunking away at the keys and singing out to my God. As the tears flow, as the gasps for air happen in the midst of the crying and singing – I still know that I am worshipping with God’s people. There are others out there, in their own rooms, singing out to God. Exalting Him. Praising Him. (Yes, keep reading Melissa.)

Verses 5-6. For He will hide me in His shelter in the day of trouble; He will conceal me under the cover of His tent; He will lift me high upon a rock. And now my head shall be lifted up above my enemies all around me, and I will offer in His tent sacrifices with shouts of joy; I will sing and make melody to the LORD.

Wait a minute! Wait a minute! Wait a minute! Okay… let me just throw these thoughts out here. Could it be that I am my own enemy? My sin. My frustration. My doubt. My questioning God’s plan for my life. And then, I am still obedient in my worship of God. Because my enemy is pride. It’s all about me, me, me. Instead of succumbing completely to this sin, God helps me slay it. Kill it. And my response is to praise Him. Even when He brings me to a place of raw vulnerability and repentance.

Could it be that there really is an external enemy who hunts me down and attempts to lure me to moments of doubt? Oh yes, there is. I know it. You know it. God knows it. Scripture says there is.

Verses 7-10. Here, O LORD, when I cry aloud; be gracious to me and answer me! You have said, “Seek my face.” My heart says to you, “Your face, LORD, do I seek.” Hide not your face from me. Turn not your servant away in anger, O You who have been my help. Cast me not off; forsake me not, O God of my salvation! For my father and my mother have forsaken me, but the LORD will take me in.

I feel like I’ve just hit the crescendo here. Even in the midst of my tear-filled weeping, I seek the Lord. Why? Because I know He is trustworthy. Even when I doubt. Even when I make it about me. Even when I seem to forget. The Lord does not hide His face. He does not forsake me. My salvation is secure. In fact, it is good that I run to Him first and not anyone or anything else.

I’m going to pause in my reading of this chapter of Psalm because I’m noticing this is looking more like a personal journal entry and reflection than it is a blog post. In fact, as I was typing the words above, I kept thinking, “How can I add a paragraph that gives ideas on how this can apply to the reader?” After all, isn’t that what a good writer does? Here is the hook to catch your attention Here is my personal life example. Here is what scripture says. Here is how it applies to you too. Here is a prompt for how you can respond in your own personal life. And, now you know the secret formula to a good blog post or devotion!

But seriously, my hope in sharing all of this isn’t just to let you inside the deepest part of my soul or to share my struggles. If I’m going to be completely honest, I’m not sure what my hope is. My hope is definitely in the Lord. And I pray that is where your hope is too. I don’t claim to be an expert in anything. This will not be a “Here are 5 steps to get off the emotional roller coaster of questioning God’s faithfulness.” I’m not convinced we will ever get off that roller coaster while still on this Earth. (In this world you will have trouble…)

What I do know – God has already overcome the world. The battle has already been won. And, while we still experience trouble and have an enemy surrounding us, God is all we need. He is sufficient. He is enough. He ruins us in our pride and worry and slays our sins.

Verses 11-14. Teach me your way, O LORD, and lead me on a level path because of my enemies. Give me not up to the will of my adversaries; for false witnesses have risen against me, and they breathe out violence. I believe that I shall look upon the goodness of the LORD in the land of the living! Wait for the LORD; be strong, and let your heart take courage; wait for the LORD!

For some, these last few verses may feel like the climax of the Psalm but I believe these are the calm closing remarks. There is so much to take comfort in.

To wait for the LORD is to look to Him with dependence and trust, not passivity; this is what enables one to be strong and courageous.

ESV Study Bible, Psalm 27.

Dependence and trust.

No, my life did not turn out the way I had dreamed it would. No husband. No children. According to the world’s standards, it could go a couple of ways. If I wanted to go full-feminist, I could shout out about how lucky I am and better I am than a married woman is. Or, I could fall victim to these lies – yes, there is something wrong with me or I did something wrong so that a man would not be attracted to me and I would never have children. I’m less than.

You’re still all that I need. You’re enough for me. Still, I will worship.

I don’t need a husband. Even though I still wouldn’t mind if God decided to bring a man into my life.

I don’t need to be a mother. Although, being a teacher for many years allowed me the opportunity to be a mother figure in many children’s lives.

God is all I need. He is enough for me. And, OH, how I love to worship Him. In my room on my little keyboard. In my church with all the saints. In my car… wherever.

You know, I wouldn’t equate my emotional moment tonight with suffering. I know so many who are reading this may be suffering – chronic pain, illness, loss of a loved one, trauma or abuse – the list goes on. Not having a husband or children doesn’t feel like suffering but, it is definitely disappointing. My expectations all those years ago were not met. The song I worshipped to is focused on suffering and giving God glory. But I think there is another element to suffering and that is self-inflicted shame, doubt, and fear.

And so, whatever season I am in – whether it is suffering in any way – even though my heart and flesh may fail and the earth gives way… I will see the LORD. I will trust Him. And not a tear was wasted when I let them flow as I gave it all to the Lord.

Sing a song to the One Who’s all I need.

holiness, legalism and being a goody-goody

When did pursuing holiness become legalistic?

Not long ago, a friend invited me out to a movie. I politely declined. There were multiple reasons for this. Movie tickets are expensive, even when it is a matinee. I can never avoid the temptation of purchasing that jumbo-sized bag of popcorn – yes, I would like extra artery-clogging butter, please, and thank you. Sticky floors and not comfy seats just aren’t worth it. However, many theaters have some significant upgrades and clean floors these days. Truth be told, I’ve now become that person who prefers to invite a few friends over, watch a movie on my own TV, in my comfy clothes, and on my comfy couch with a healthier snack that doesn’t cost $50+. 

There is another reason I declined this particular movie: it was a secular movie. *Gasp* I know. I know. Those secular movies! Cue the “goody-goody” reference – I’m okay with it, and as you continue to read, you’ll learn why.

I would have gone to the movie about five or so years ago. Back then, I could justify it by saying that the cuss words and other sinful behavior shown in the movie didn’t bother me nor cause me to want to sin. I was able to see past all of that and appreciate the storyline. And, by golly, I can relate some of it to the Christian life! The same holds for music. Sometimes I just longed to listen to 90’s country – back when it still sounded like country. I had the perfect playlist that I would crank up while doing chores. Boot scootin’ boogie took on a whole new meaning while vacuuming the floors! I also had the most epic 80s music playlist that had me singing in my hairbrush and wondering if stores still sell Aquanet or Teen Beat. 

Back in the day, I could justify all of my choices – especially the decisions to watch PG-13 movies and music that had lyrics about somebody getting tipsy at a watermelon festival. While I don’t remember anyone in particular, there were times when I would meet someone who chose not to watch those kinds of movies or listen to that kind of music. My immediate judgment was that they thought themselves better than someone like me and were a goody-goody. You know, that person who seems to do nothing wrong. Ever. It must be nice to be so perfect. So, when did things change for me? It may be evident that I’m writing this because my perspective has changed, and you would be right. In fact, my view has changed drastically. 

A little over two years ago, I decided to dig into the Word of God like never before by listening to expositional preaching and in-depth Bible Study. All of my church life, sermons were always topical. The Pastor would choose a topic, usually relevant to life, and teach what the Bible says about the topic. Not necessarily a wrong way to preach. In fact, there is absolutely a time and a place for topical preaching. It’s good to focus on topics – especially hot-button ones or those focusing on issues we face today. Recent examples would be social justice, unity, sexual identity, etc. Yes, it is definitely good to preach topically from time to time.

But there is something powerful about preaching verse by verse through an entire book of the Bible and teaching how it relates to our lives today. I became aware of verses and context in scripture that I had never noticed before. It may have been taught to me sometime in the past, but I didn’t remember. As a result, it became my passion to encourage other Christian women to read the entire context of a verse. Something else happened in a much deeper place – my soul. 

I began looking at things from a different perspective—everything from politics and social issues to my personal choices. Areas of my life I had been willing to compromise or justify were challenged. Some decisions needed to be made concerning what I was pursuing, not just Biblically but also what I pursued for entertainment, what I was doing to “pass the time,” and what sorts of conversations I was partaking in. Did I need to use that word to describe an unpleasant situation? Now that my roots were growing deeper in the Word of God, compromising and justifying sinful behavior was becoming more difficult. 

What was also interesting was that I noticed I was becoming that girl I called a goody-goody. Oh, dear! Am I becoming too legalistic? Am I going “too far” with my Christian ways? I mean, God knows I’m not perfect. Am I trying to be perfect, and is trying to be perfect the right thing to do? So many questions! All good questions. And I found all my answers. Can you guess where? That’s right! The B-I-B-L-E! (I hope you spelled that and sang the song…)

A truth I had to wrap my head around was that if I am saved and declare Jesus as my Lord and Savior, I should desire to live in a way that pleases Him and reflects Christ-like behavior. But living this way isn’t what “earns” my spot in Heaven. That has already been decided. And I think that is where we learn more about the difference between legalism and holiness and how the two are getting confused by those who say they are Christian.

Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say rejoice.
Let your reasonableness be known to everyone. The Lord is at hand;
do not be anxious about anything, 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 your minds in Christ Jesus.
Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things.
What you have learned and received and heard and seen in me – practice these things, and the God of peace will be with you.

Philippians 4:4-9 ESV

These verses appear near the end of Paul’s letter to the Philippians. In this letter, he is encouraging them in their faith. Reminding them to live as citizens of heaven and thank them for their support. Many scholars believe that Paul was writing from prison. Imprisonment carried a social stigma. Yet, the Philippians never turned their back on Paul and remained faithful to him. The other reason for writing to the Philippians was to encourage them to continue making progress in their faith. The church in Philippi was healthy in contrast to the churches in Corinth and Galatia, but Paul wanted to make it clear that didn’t mean they should relax and rest. I love how my ESV Study Bible puts it when explaining the reasoning for this encouragement: The world is too perilous, and the gospel too glorious.

The entire book of Philippians is a great book to study, and I encourage you to do so!

Verses 8 and 9 of the scripture shared above – Paul is telling the Philippians what they should be filling their minds with. These things should inspire worship of God and service to others.

Here’s another verse as we take a step further into the idea of holiness –

Do not love the world or the things in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him. For all that is in the world – the desires of the flesh and the desires of the eyes and pride of life – is not from the Father but is from the world. And the world is passing away along with its desires, but whoever does the will of God abides forever.

1 John 2:15-17 ESV

One important distinction when reading these verses is not to read them as a total rejection of the world. After all, when we read John 3:16, we read that because of God’s love for the world, He sent Jesus.

This is a different kind of love. Not the kind of love that describes why God sent Jesus to save the world. The words in 1 John are a warning against devotion to worldly things that are opposed to God. John then gives examples such as the desires of the flesh and eyes and the pride of life. Let’s explore all three of these examples.

Desires of the flesh

This refers to indulging in physical or sensual pleasure in ways that are contrary to God’s will. This includes excessive consumption of food or alcohol, engaging in promiscuous or immoral sexual behavior, or becoming addicted to substances or activities that harm one’s health and well-being. In today’s society, I can think of quite a few examples. Especially since it is the month of June and a certain “desire of the flesh” is constantly being promoted via all channels. But this expands to so much more when it comes to holiness that I’ll share a little further down in this post.

Desires of the eyes

This temptation involves coveting and longing for material possessions or worldly treasures. In today’s consumerist society, people often find themselves drawn to materialistic pursuits and the constant desire for the latest gadgets (apple, anyone?), fashion trends, or luxurious lifestyles. It can lead to a preoccupation with wealth, greed, and the pursuit of worldly success at the expense of spiritual values. I remember in the mid-80’s a certain popular shoe brand came with a blue label on the heel. If your shoe had that blue label, you were considered “in” or “cool.” There were other versions of the shoe. In fact, the style was identical. But don’t you dare wear the other brand because you are not in style if there is no blue label. And if you are not “in style,” then the door to teasing is opened. And who wants to be teased? I look back at the time in life and just shake my head. Does a blue label on a shoe really make that much of a difference? What about your phone? Are you always needing the latest model? Why?

Pride of life

This temptation revolves around arrogance, self-centeredness, and seeking recognition or status. In the age of social media, individuals may succumb to the desire for personal validation and attention, constantly seeking approval and admiration through carefully curated images and narratives. The focus shifts towards self-promotion, comparison with others, and the pursuit of popularity or influence, which can undermine humility and genuine relationships. Just scroll through your social media feed, and you will see this. Unfortunately, this kind of pride has appeared in the church as well. Worship ministry can be tricky because many churches have a band leading in front of the congregation. Over the years, I have witnessed prideful hearts as they “performed” a “concert” instead of centering their worship on the Lord. We see pride show in Pastors as well!

Desires of the flesh, eyes, and pride are the very things that will call holiness legalistic. I have heard every excuse. “Watching that movie won’t make me lust or desire the same thing.” “Listening to this song is just fun. The lyrics don’t influence me.” “It’s good for me to play my best and have the latest gear to help me do so. I’ve gotta have the best sound to honor the Lord!”

How can we not think these things will influence us in some way? I’m a walking example of being influenced whether I wanted to be or not. If the Bible is telling me to pursue what is holy and pleasing to the Lord, then that is what I need to be pursuing.

A final argument I have heard when it comes to holiness is the idea of wanting to be relatable to those who do not know God…yet. There is so much to unpack with this perspective that would require a completely new blog post, but I will say this – that perspective would equal saying something like this, “I need to sin so I can relate to other sinners.” My answer – what??? How does one get to that idea of evangelizing to others when the Bible is explicitly clear about sin?

Here are some more verses. I encourage you to look these up, especially if you have a study Bible. Read the commentary and related verses. You will soon find yourself on a rabbit trail of what it means to be holy.

I appeal to you therefore, brothers, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God, which is your spiritual worship. Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect.

Romans 12:1-2 ESV

Therefore, preparing your minds for action, and being sober-minded, set your hope fully on the grace that will be brought to you at the revelation of Jesus Christ. As obedient children, do not be conformed to the passions of your former ignorance, but as He who called you is holy, you also be holy in all your conduct, since it is written, “You shall be holy, for I am holy.”

1 Peter 1:13-16 ESV

You adulterous people! Do you not know that friendship with the world is enmity with God? Therefore whoever wishes to be a friend of the world makes himself an enemy of God.

James 4:4 ESV

Since, then, you have been raised with Christ, set your hearts on things above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God. Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things.”

Colossians 3:1-2

Sister in Christ, we are called to live a holy and distinct life where God is prioritized over everything else. When we embrace a mindset and lifestyle that aligns with God’s holiness, we experience a deeper relationship with Him and reflect His character to the world around us.

I am content with being a goody-goody if it means I am pursuing holiness. And, when I mess up, I run to the Lord in humility and receive His grace and mercy. It’s okay to not go to that movie. It’s okay to not fit in if it means you say and do things that do not honor the Lord. When you do pursue holiness, do so in humility.

He has told you, O man, what is good: and what does the LORD require of you but to do justice, and to love kindness, and to walk humbly with your God.

Micah 6:8 ESV

Do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves.

Philippians 2:3 ESV

How to apply all this.

No, you do not need to go to that movie. It’s okay to turn it down.
Is that TV show really the way you should be spending your time? How is it honoring the Lord?
Pay attention to how you respond when faced with these decisions. Is your immediate reaction to go on the defense and justify your decision, or is it a reaction from a place of humility and honoring the Lord?
When participating in conversations with non-believers (or even those who profess to be Christian), guard the words that come out of your mouth. You don’t need to swear in an effort to fit in. You should be standing out for the glory of God!
No, condemning and not supporting sinful behavior is NOT legalistic. Stand firm in the truth!
When someone calls you a goody-goody, respond in humility. Don’t get proud about your goody-two-shoes, either. Always default to humility.
And when in doubt or unsure about something, go to the Word of God and trust Him. This includes when someone tries to tell you that you are being legalistic in your pursuit of holiness.

He is Faithful and Just

My church is doing a memory project in which we, as a congregation, have been given 25 Bible verses to memorize through the Spring and Summer. We’ll then receive another 25 verses to memorize in the Fall and Winter. I am so excited to participate in this and intentionally learn and memorize scripture. The goal isn’t just so I can stand in front of someone and tell them a Bible verse. The goal is to connect the mind and the heart with the Word of God. In so doing, may God be glorified, and may I run to the light of His Word every single day!

If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.

1 John 1:9 ESV

So straightforward.

So simple.

There isn’t much to add now, is there?

If we confess our sins

If… then…

Who remembers learning about Conditional Sentences in Language Arts class? I remember having to write several sentences that would show that I understood how to write these types of sentences. If a certain condition is true, then a particular result happens. But that result will only happen if the condition is true.

Christians must confess their sins. There is no way to get around it. There isn’t anything that God doesn’t know already. Some may question well, if God already knows everything, what is the point of confessing it? That’s just it. Yes, He knows, but He wants you to know as well and take the important step toward salvation – which is confession.

What does it mean to confess our sins? It means acknowledging our failures, our shortcomings, and our mistakes before God. We don’t try to justify or excuse our actions, but we openly and honestly admit to them. Confessing our sins is not just a ritual or formality but an act of surrender. It’s a way of letting go of our pride and admitting that we need God’s mercy and grace. It’s confessing any sin that goes against God’s commandments and how we are supposed to live.

Something that I have noticed in some church circles is the desire to welcome people in and want them to feel included – while remaining to live in their sinful lifestyle. In other words, there is no urgency for repentance or teaching them that they are living in sin. The urgency is focused more on wanting them to feel loved and welcome. However, enabling sin does not equal showing love. In fact, the greatest way we can love someone is by pointing out their sin and then directing them to the One who loves them the most and displaying that love in the most incredible way – by dying on the cross so that we may live!

Greater love has no one than this, that someone lay down his life for his friends.

John 15:13

For one will scarcely die for a righteous person – though perhaps for a good person one would dare even to die –
but God shows His love for us in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us.

Romans 5:7-8

Twice, in the book of John, Jesus said, “Sin no more” (John 5:14; John 8:11).

We confess, and then we sin no more. Jesus is faithful to forgive us and to cleanse us.

What does it mean that God is faithful and just to forgive us our sins? It means that His forgiveness is not based on our merit or worthiness but on His character and promise. He is faithful to His Word and His love, and He is just to forgive us because of Christ’s sacrifice on the cross.

God’s forgiveness is not just a pardon but a cleansing. It’s a process of removing the stain and the guilt of sin from our hearts and minds. It’s a way of renewing our spirit and our relationship with Him. As we confess our sins and receive God’s forgiveness, we also receive the gift of Holy Spirit who empowers us to live a new life of righteousness and holiness. We become children of God who walk in the light and fellowship with Him and one another.

Going back to my point about some churches excusing sin in order to make people feel welcome. As Christians, we are called to strive for holiness and to follow God’s commands. Sin is never condoned or excused. In fact, 1 John 3:4 says, Everyone who makes a practice of sinning also practices lawlessness; sin is lawlessness. In 1 Peter, we are called to be holy.

Therefore, preparing your minds for action, and being sober-minded, set your hope fully on the grace that will be brought to you at the revelation of Jesus Christ. As obedient children, do not be conformed to the passions of your former ignorance, but as He who called you is holy, you also be holy in all your conduct, since it is written, “You shall be holy, for I am holy.”

1 Peter 1:13-16

Yes, Jesus came to save us from our sins and offers us grace and forgiveness, but that doesn’t mean we should continue to live in sin. Romans 6:1-2 reminds us that What shall we say then? Are we to continue in sin that grace may abound? By no means! How can we who died to sin still live in it?

So sister in Christ, if you carry the burden of your sins, don’t despair or hide from God. You can’t hide anyway. Confess your sins to Him and receive His forgiveness and cleansing. And go and sin no more. Live a life that pursues holiness and rejoices in the extraordinary love of Christ!

The Way, The Truth & The Life

My church is doing a memory project in which we, as a congregation, have been given 25 Bible verses to memorize through the Spring and Summer. We’ll then receive another 25 verses to memorize in the Fall and Winter. I am so excited to participate in this and intentionally learn and memorize scripture. The goal isn’t just so I can stand in front of someone and tell them a Bible verse. The goal is to connect the mind and the heart with the Word of God. In so doing, may God be glorified, and may I run to the light of His Word every single day!

As I memorize scripture, I don’t want this to just be words to say. I desire to truly dig in and learn more about each verse’s message. Sometimes it will be simple and straightforward. Other times there will be layers of amazing truth and wisdom. Since digging into the Word of God, I have noticed how it has changed me. Scripture humbles and expresses truth. It dispels any doubt I may have had and provides wisdom and guidance for daily life. The Word of God continually points to Jesus – the source of our Salvation. One of my favorite things to do is flip the pages between New Testament and Old Testament to see prophecy fulfilled and how connected scripture is. Context is so important! So I’ve decided to share what I learn with you! Let’s dig in together!

No Spiritual Discipline is more important than the intake of God’s Word. Nothing can substitute for it. There simply is no healthy Christian life apart from a diet of the milk and meat of Scripture.

Donald S. Whitney, Spiritual Disciplines for the Christian LIfe

The first verse to commit to memory is John 14:6. I’m choosing the ESV as my translation of choice to memorize these precious words.

Jesus said to him, “I am the way, and the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me.”

(I typed that from memory, in case you were wondering. Ha!)

Jesus is the way. In Exodus 26, God gives instructions for how to build His Tabernacle. In verses 33-36, the instructions are given for blocking off the Most Holy Place, which would contain the ark of the testimony. Only the Levitical High Priest (Leviticus 16) could enter this part of the Tabernacle once a year, on the Day of Atonement. No one else was allowed to enter God’s Holiness. In Leviticus 10:2, we read that Aaron’s two sons entered and offered “unauthorized fire” or strange fire, which the Lord had not commanded them to do. Each of them was consumed by a fire that came from the Lord and died. Right there. On the spot! And now we have Jesus, who has come to fulfill the OT prophecy. And there is salvation in one else, for there is no other name under heaven given among men by which we must be saved (Acts 4:12). The moment Jesus said, “It is finished,” and bowed His head to give up His spirit (John 19:30), the curtain that separated us from the Most Holy Place was torn from top to bottom (Matthew 27:51). Thus, there was no longer any separation between God and the people.

I encourage you to open your Bible and read Hebrews 9:11-10:18 for a more in-depth explanation of the significance of Jesus’ death on the cross. He IS the way!

Jesus is the truth. John 1:17 says For the law was given through Moses; grace and truth came through Jesus Christ. 1 John 5:20 says, And we know that the Son of God has come and has given us understanding, so that we may know Him who is true, in His Son Jesus Christ. He is the true God and eternal life.

Jesus is the life. Believing in Jesus doesn’t just bring life to those who believe in Him and know His voice. It brings us eternal life. For God so loved the world, that He gave His only Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have eternal life (John 3:16) and My sheep hear My voice, and I know them, and they follow me. I give them eternal life, and they will never perish, and no one will snatch them out of My hand John 10:26-27).

Jesus said to her, “I am the resurrection and the life. Whoever believes in Me, though he die, yet shall he live, and everyone who lives and believes in me shall never die. Do you believe this?”

John 11:25-26

I’m going to be honest with you. After taking the time to ponder what Jesus’ statement in John 14:6 means to the believer, I became overwhelmed and at a loss for words. What an incredible gift from a loving Savior Who has given up His life for me – a wretch that deserves so much worse.

We are so much more deserving of God’s wrath and eternal punishment, but Oh! what a gift it is for those who believe to know that because of Jesus, we have received grace, mercy, and forgiveness and life everlasting with the King of Kings. Oh, glorious day!