Author: Pastor Jason

Overcoming Fear

Fear has a way of creeping in when you least expect it. After my divorce, I found myself battling fears I’d never faced before. Fear of failure, fear of rejection, fear of what the future might hold. Even as a pastor, I wasn’t immune to the “what ifs” that seemed to follow me everywhere.

One particular night, I was lying awake, my mind racing with worry about our daughter. What kind of example was I setting for her? Was I doing enough as her dad? I felt overwhelmed, and the weight of fear threatened to crush me.

That’s when God reminded me of 2 Timothy 1:7. Fear isn’t from Him. He gives us power, love, and a sound mind, not anxiety and doubt. I began to pray, asking God to replace my fear with His peace. Slowly, I felt the tension ease.

Fear will come knocking at your door, but you don’t have to let it in. God has given us the tools to fight back, His Word, prayer, and His promises. When fear rises, remind yourself of who God is. He is your protector, your provider, and your peace.

If you’re facing fear today, know this: it doesn’t define you. God’s power is greater than any fear you’ll ever face.

Prayer

Heavenly Father, thank You for reminding me that fear has no place in my life because You are with me. Replace my fear with faith and my anxiety with peace. Help me to trust You fully, no matter what I face. I give You all honor, all the glory, and all the praise. It’s in Jesus’ name I pray. Amen & Amen.

The Good Shepherd

The title “The Good Shepherd” reveals Jesus as the one who cares for, protects, and sacrifices for His people. As a shepherd knows each sheep by name, Jesus knows us personally and leads us with compassion and love.

There have been moments in my life when I felt lost, unsure of the path forward. In those times, I clung to the image of Jesus as the Good Shepherd. He reminded me that I didn’t have to navigate life alone, He was there to guide me, protect me, and bring me back when I strayed.

The Shepherd’s Care: Jesus tenderly cares for His flock, providing for their needs and tending to their wounds (Psalm 23).

The Shepherd’s Protection: As the Good Shepherd, He stands between us and danger, laying down His life to save us from harm.

The Shepherd’s Sacrifice: Jesus’ ultimate act of love was giving His life for His sheep, demonstrating the depth of His commitment to us.

Calling on the Good Shepherd reminds us that we are deeply known, loved, and cared for by Jesus, who leads us faithfully.

Reflection Questions

  1. In what ways has Jesus been your Good Shepherd in your life?
  2. How can you follow His example of care and compassion for others?

Prayer

Lord, thank You for being my Good Shepherd, who knows me by name and cares for me so deeply. Teach me to trust in Your guidance and to share Your love with others. Help Kneel Ministries encourage people to find their hope and security in You. I give You all honor, all the glory, and all the praise. It’s in Jesus’ name I pray. Amen & Amen.

Forgiveness: Letting Go of Resentment

Forgiveness. It’s one of the hardest things God asks of us, yet it’s also one of the most freeing. I’ll be honest, this is a lesson I’ve had to learn repeatedly, especially after the hurt I’ve experienced over the past few years.

When my ex-wife left, I felt a deep sense of betrayal. The wounds from our divorce weren’t just emotional; they were spiritual, too. I wrestled with God, asking Him how I was supposed to forgive someone who had shattered the vows we made before Him. It felt impossible.

But then I remembered Jesus’ words: “Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing.” (Luke 23:34). Even as He hung on the cross, betrayed and abandoned, Jesus chose forgiveness. If He could forgive in the face of such pain, how could I hold on to my bitterness?

Forgiveness isn’t about excusing what happened or pretending the hurt doesn’t exist. It’s about releasing the weight of resentment so it doesn’t consume you. I realized that my anger wasn’t hurting my ex-wife, it was hurting me. I was the one carrying the burden, and it was keeping me from experiencing the fullness of God’s peace.

It wasn’t easy, and it didn’t happen overnight. Forgiveness is a process, one that requires prayer and surrender. I had to bring my pain to God daily, asking Him to soften my heart and give me the strength to let go. Over time, He replaced my bitterness with compassion.

Forgiving my ex-wife doesn’t mean I approve of her choices, but it does mean I’m free. I can look at her now without the heaviness of anger or resentment. And more importantly, I can focus on being the father kiddo needs, without the distraction of unresolved hurt.

If you’re struggling to forgive someone, I encourage you to take it to God. It’s okay to admit it’s hard, He already knows. But as you release the pain to Him, He’ll help you heal. Forgiveness doesn’t change the past, but it transforms your future.

Prayer

Heavenly Father, forgiveness is hard, but I know You’ve called me to let go of resentment and bitterness. Help me to forgive as You’ve forgiven me. Soften my heart and give me the strength to release the pain I’m holding on to. Thank You for the freedom that comes from living in Your grace. I give You all honor, all the glory, and all the praise. It’s in Jesus’ name I pray. Amen & Amen.

True Love

When I got married, I believed I understood love. I thought it was found in the vows we made and the life we promised to build together. But after my marriage ended, I wrestled with the painful realization that human love is flawed. It can fail, break, and leave scars.

In my season of heartbreak, God began to teach me about His love… a love that isn’t dependent on circumstances or feelings. True love, as God defines it, is sacrificial, selfless, and enduring. It doesn’t demand perfection but chooses to love despite imperfections.

I’ll never forget one night, shortly after the divorce, when our daughter climbed into my lap and hugged me tightly. “I love you, Daddy,” she whispered. It struck me then that her love for me wasn’t based on what I could give her; it was simply because I was her dad. That’s how God loves us, unconditionally and without limits.

True love begins with God. It’s only when we experience His perfect love that we can truly love others. Whether you’re married, single, or somewhere in between, know that God’s love is the foundation of all relationships. It’s patient when others test your limits. It’s kind when you feel like lashing out. And it’s humble enough to forgive when you’ve been wronged.

As I continue to navigate life as a single dad and pastor, I’m learning to reflect God’s love in my relationships. It’s not always easy, but it’s worth it. Because when we love like Jesus, we’re showing the world what true love really is.

Prayer

Heavenly Father, thank You for showing me what true love looks like. Teach me to love like You. With patience, kindness, and humility. Help me to reflect Your love in all my relationships. I give You all honor, all the glory, and all the praise. It’s in Jesus’ name I pray. Amen & Amen.

Jesus: The Name Above All Names

The name Jesus, meaning “The Lord Saves,” is the name above all names. It encapsulates the purpose of His coming. To rescue humanity from sin and reconcile us to God.

I often reflect on the simplicity and power of this name. Whether in moments of worship or times of desperation, calling on Jesus has brought peace, strength, and clarity. His name is not just a word… it’s a declaration of hope and salvation.

The Power of His Name: At the name of Jesus, every knee will bow, and every tongue will confess that He is Lord (Philippians 2:10-11).

The Purpose of His Name: Jesus came to seek and save the lost, offering redemption to all who call on Him (Luke 19:10).

The Promise of His Name: In His name, we find forgiveness, healing, and eternal life (Acts 4:12).

Calling on the name of Jesus invites us into a relationship with the Savior who loves us and gave Himself for us.

Reflection Questions

  1. What does the name Jesus mean to you personally?
  2. How can calling on His name bring peace and hope to your daily life?

Prayer

Lord, thank You for the name of Jesus, the name above all names. Teach me to live in the power and purpose of Your name, sharing the hope of salvation with others. Help Kneel Ministries glorify Your name in all we do. I give You all honor, all the glory, and all the praise. It’s in Jesus’ name I pray. Amen & Amen.

True Love Is a Choice, Not Just a Feeling

When I was younger, I thought love was all about feelings. The butterflies, the excitement, the romance. And while those things are beautiful, they’re not what true love is built on. Over the years, I’ve learned that love is more about choice than emotion.

Marriage taught me that love isn’t always easy. There were days when the feelings weren’t strong, but the commitment had to be. True love means choosing patience when you’re frustrated, kindness when you’re hurt, and forgiveness when you’re wronged. It means showing up every day, even when it’s hard.

I didn’t fully understand this until my marriage ended. The pain of divorce opened my eyes to what love really is, and what it isn’t. Love isn’t selfish or conditional. It’s not about getting what you want; it’s about giving selflessly, just as Christ gave for us.

Now, as I navigate singleness again, I’m approaching love differently. I’m not looking for someone who just makes me feel good; I’m looking for someone who is willing to choose love daily… through the good and the bad. And I want to be that kind of person, too.

The ultimate example of love is Jesus. His love wasn’t based on feelings; it was a choice. He chose to leave heaven, to serve, to sacrifice, and to forgive. His love wasn’t easy, but it was perfect.

If you’re in a relationship, I encourage you to ask yourself: Are you choosing love, even when it’s hard? And if you’re single, take this time to prepare your heart to love like Jesus. True love isn’t about finding the right person; it’s about becoming the right person.

Prayer

Heavenly Father, thank You for showing me what true love looks like through Jesus. Help me to love others with patience, kindness, and selflessness. Whether I’m in a relationship or preparing for one, guide me to love as You do. I give You all honor, all the glory, and all the praise. It’s in Jesus’ name I pray. Amen & Amen.

El Chay: The Living God

El Chay, “The Living God,” distinguishes the one true God from lifeless idols. This name emphasizes that God is active, present, and engaged with His people. He is not distant or silent. He is alive and moving in the world today.

There was a moment in my life when I questioned if God was really working in my circumstances. It was during a season of silence when I desperately wanted to hear from Him. Then, in a quiet but undeniable way, He reminded me of His presence. El Chay is not just a name. It’s a reality I’ve experienced.

God Is Active: Unlike idols that are powerless, El Chay is living and powerful, always at work in His creation.

God Is Present: El Chay assures us that God is not far off but near, walking with us through every circumstance.

God Brings Life: As the Living God, He breathes life into us spiritually, emotionally, and physically.

Calling on El Chay reminds us that we serve a God who is alive and intimately involved in every detail of our lives.

Reflection Questions

  1. How does knowing El Chay as the Living God strengthen your faith?
  2. Where have you seen evidence of God’s active presence in your life?

Prayer

Lord, thank You for being El Chay, the Living God who walks with me every day. Teach me to trust in Your active presence and to live in the confidence of Your power. Help Kneel Ministries guide others to experience Your life-giving presence. I give You all honor, all the glory, and all the praise. It’s in Jesus’ name I pray. Amen & Amen.

Depression

There was a time after the divorce when the nights felt unbearable. I’d lie awake, replaying everything in my mind, questioning what I could’ve done differently. The weight of loneliness and failure pressed down on me, and some days, it felt like I was just going through the motions.

I never thought I’d struggle with depression. As a pastor, I’d counseled others through it, reminding them of God’s promises and faithfulness. But when it hit me, I realized how isolating it could feel. Even though I knew God was with me, there were moments when it was hard to believe it.

What helped me most was being honest, with God, with myself, and with those I trusted. I stopped pretending everything was fine and started pouring out my heart to the Lord. I also leaned on the people who cared about me, like Samantha and kiddo, who reminded me that I wasn’t alone.

Slowly, God began to renew my hope. He didn’t magically erase the pain, but He gave me strength for each day. Through prayer, Scripture, and even counseling, I discovered that depression doesn’t define me, God’s love does.

If you’re struggling, know this: you’re not weak or unfaithful. You’re human. And the God who created you sees your pain and wants to carry you through it.

Prayer

Heavenly Father, thank You for being close to the brokenhearted. When life feels overwhelming, remind me of Your presence and fill me with Your peace. Help me to trust You even in the darkest moments. I give You all honor, all the glory, and all the praise. It’s in Jesus’ name I pray. Amen & Amen.

Becoming the Right Person

For years, I thought a successful relationship was about finding the right person, someone who fit my list of ideals and brought out the best in me. But over time, I’ve learned that a healthy relationship starts with becoming the right person, not just finding them.

Becoming the right person means allowing God to shape my heart. It’s about growing in patience, learning to love selflessly, and becoming someone who reflects Christ in my words and actions. Relationships aren’t about getting everything we want… they’re about giving what we’ve received from God: grace, kindness, and unconditional love.

Right now, I’m in a season of preparation. I’m working on becoming the man God has called me to be. Not just for a future wife, but for our daughter, my friends, and everyone in my life. I’m learning to listen more, love better, and trust God’s timing.

If you’re in a season of singleness, ask yourself: How is God shaping you in this time? What qualities is He growing in you to prepare you for the relationships He’s placed, or will place, in your life?

Prayer

Heavenly Father, thank You for using every season of my life to shape me into who You’ve called me to be. Teach me to focus on becoming the right person rather than seeking perfection in others. Help me to trust Your timing and to reflect Your love in all my relationships. I give You all honor, all the glory, and all the praise. It’s in Jesus’ name I pray. Amen & Amen.

The Heart of Giving

Tithing isn’t just a financial transaction… it’s a reflection of our heart. In 2 Corinthians 9:7, Paul reminds us that God loves a cheerful giver. Giving out of obligation or guilt misses the point; true giving comes from a place of gratitude and joy.

When we tithe, we’re saying, “God, I trust You. Thank You for all You’ve given me.” It’s an opportunity to participate in God’s work, supporting ministries, churches, and those in need. More importantly, it aligns our hearts with God’s, teaching us to value generosity over greed.

I’ve learned that cheerful giving isn’t always easy, especially during tight financial seasons. But when we give joyfully, we discover that God’s blessings go far beyond material provision. He transforms our hearts, deepens our trust, and uses our gifts to impact His kingdom.

Reflection Questions

  1. How does your attitude toward giving reflect your trust in God?
  2. What steps can you take to become a cheerful giver?

Prayer

Lord, thank You for the opportunity to give and to participate in Your work. Teach me to give with a cheerful heart, trusting in Your provision and purpose. Help me to honor You through my generosity and to reflect Your love to others. I give You all honor, all the glory, and all the praise. It’s in Jesus’ name I pray. Amen & Amen.