Author: Stephen Goodland
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He Chose the Cross
Bible Readings Reflection Jesus stood before Pilate, yet no wrong could be found in Him. The crowd, however, chose differently. They called for a guilty and violent man to be released instead, and demanded that Jesus be crucified. Pilate himself knew Jesus was innocent. He even washed his hands before the crowd, saying he was…
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Nothing Held Back
We often come to God, but not completely. We bring what feels acceptable — our strengths, our good intentions, our visible faith — yet quietly hold back the parts we struggle with. The thoughts we are ashamed of. The habits we wish were gone. The parts of ourselves we fear others might not understand. We…
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What Must I Do?
What must I do to inherit eternal life? It is a question that feels both sincere and searching. Yet when it is brought to Jesus, the answer does not lead to a checklist, but to something deeper — an invitation that moves us from striving to trust. Bible Readings Reflection There is a question that…
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Where Life Flows From
Spiritual vitality is not sustained by effort alone, but by remaining near to the One from whom all life flows. Bible Readings Reflection Much of life is shaped by what we remain close to. Over time, nearness forms us. The voices we listen to, the places we linger, the relationships we cultivate — all quietly…
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The Fruit That Cannot Be Divided
Spiritual growth is not the careful selection of virtues, but the quiet formation of a whole new life shaped by the Spirit. Bible Readings Reflection Scripture speaks of the fruit of the Spirit in a way that is both familiar and quietly surprising. Many believers can name the qualities listed by Paul — love, joy,…
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Opening Our Eyes, Learning to Respond
God opens our eyes in love — and invites us to step into the light we are given. Bible Readings Reflection Scripture often speaks of God as the One who opens our eyes. We do not discover truth simply by effort or intelligence alone. Light is given. Understanding is awakened. Hearts are gently stirred toward…
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What Can We Trust?
In a changing world, we learn to anchor our trust in the unchanging love of God. Bible Readings Reflection In a world increasingly shaped by digital images and artificial intelligence, it is becoming harder to tell what is real. Photographs can be generated, voices imitated, and scenes convincingly fabricated. What once felt trustworthy now requires…
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By His Stripes You Are Healed
Healing flows from Christ’s redeeming love — sometimes visibly, always faithfully. Bible Readings Reflection “By His stripes you are healed.” These words are sometimes spoken as a slogan — a declaration meant to guarantee immediate physical recovery or visible breakthrough. When healing does not come as expected, disappointment or quiet confusion can follow. Yet Scripture…
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Strength Through Christ (Philippians 4:13)
True strength is not found in striving or success, but in Christ’s life dwelling within us — sustaining us faithfully in every circumstance. Bible Readings Reflection “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” This familiar verse is often quoted as a declaration of confidence — a promise of success, achievement, or personal…
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Rivers of Living Water
Many years ago, a pastor prayed over me with simple words that have stayed with me ever since: “Let rivers flow.” At the time, I did not fully understand what those words would come to mean, but they have continued to echo quietly through my life and faith. Over time, I have come to see…
Where Rivers Flow 