The Light of Christ Journey

Encouraging people on their journey with Christ

Finding True Value in Life

Tom Graves

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October 4, 2026

Finding true value in life is a matter that can only be answered through a relationship with God. This truth becomes clear when a man approached Jesus seeking help with an inheritance dispute. Luke 12 13 Then someone called from the crowd, “Teacher, please tell my brother to divide our father’s estate with me.” [1]The man’s question revealed a heart preoccupied with material wealth. Rather than settling the argument, Jesus redirected the conversation toward a greater spiritual reality.

How often are we like this man? We can become consumed by financial concerns, possessions, investments, and earthly gain. While these things are not inherently wrong, they can easily distract us from what truly matters. Jesus knew the greatest danger was not an unequal inheritance but a misplaced heart. Material pursuits can quietly become the measure of our worth, success, and security.

Jesus invites us to examine our own hearts. Are we seeking temporary treasures while neglecting eternal ones? Are we allowing possessions to define our identity? Christ calls us beyond earthly disputes and into a relationship with Him, reminding us that He Himself is the true inheritance worth seeking.

The Warning Against Greed

Jesus responded with a solemn warning: Luke 12:15 Beware! Guard against every kind of greed. Life is not measured by how much you own.” [2] It wasn’t unusual for rabbis to be called to help settle legal matters. But Jesus declined to get involved. He understood that greed is not merely a financial problem but a spiritual one.

The inheritance dispute was only a surface problem. The real problem was greedy hearts. No matter what Jesus might decide, they wouldn’t be happy. What the brothers needed was a heart change. They had come, as many people do today, to get something from Jesus rather than to serve Jesus.

Jesus challenges us to examine what we truly value. God doesn’t measure success in His Kingdom by the abundance of possessions but by the richness of our relationship with Him. True abundance is found not in what we accumulate but in knowing Jesus, the ultimate treasure and the fulfillment of the law and the prophets.

The Richness of Generosity

When we discover Jesus as our true treasure, our priorities begin to shift. Instead of clinging to what we own, we become people of generosity. As God opens heaven to us through Christ, He frees us to share what He has given us with others.

Faith and generosity have lasting value because they reflect the heart of God. The unexpected rewards of a life lived for God’s Kingdom far exceed any material wealth. Our true worth is not defined by our possessions but by how we invest our lives in God’s Kingdom and in serving others. As we abide in Christ, we learn that lasting joy comes from trusting God’s provision and reflecting His love through generous living. May we value eternal treasure over temporary wealth and find our greatest riches in Jesus, our true inheritance and everlasting reward. To learn more about finding true value in life, listen here:

https://podpoint.com/light-of-christ-church-podcast/stewardship-begins-in-the-heart

[1-2] Tyndale House Publishers. (2015). Holy Bible: New Living Translation. Tyndale House Publishers.

The Call to Spiritual Vigilance

Tom Graves

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October 3, 2026

The call to spiritual vigilance is not something we think about much, but we should! When Isaiah received his commission, God included a sobering message. The people would hear but not understand, see but not perceive.

Isaiah 6:11 Then I said, “Lord, how long will this go on?” And he replied, “Until their towns are empty, their houses are deserted, and the whole country is a wasteland; 12 until the Lord has sent everyone away, and the entire land of Israel lies deserted. [1] In these verses, the Lord reveals that judgment will come because of persistent spiritual blindness and hardened hearts. The nation had grown indifferent to God’s truth, resisting His warnings and refusing to heed His voice.

This passage reminds us that spiritual complacency is dangerous. A heart that continually ignores God’s conviction can gradually become numb to His truth. As believers, God calls us to remain watchful. Spiritual vigilance means regularly examining our hearts, listening carefully to God’s Word, and responding quickly to His leading. The question Isaiah’s audience faced is one we must also consider: Are we truly hearing God’s voice, or have we become comfortable with spiritual indifference?

Hope Preserved Through the Remnant

Although Isaiah’s prophecy contains judgment, it is not without hope; a remnant would remain. Isaiah 6:13 “Israel’s stump will be a holy seed.” [2] While many would reject God and the country would be devastated, He would preserve a faithful people through whom His purposes would continue.

This truth reveals God’s faithfulness. Human rebellion cannot cancel God’s promises. Even in seasons of spiritual decline, God preserves those who trust Him. Throughout Scripture, the remnant represents those who remain steadfast when others turn away. Their faithfulness becomes a testimony to God’s sustaining grace.

We live in a culture where biblical truth is often dismissed or ignored. Yet God calls His people to stand firm. God has never required His people to follow the crowd. He calls them to follow Him. The remnant reminds us that genuine faith often requires perseverance, courage, and unwavering trust in God’s promises.

Christ: The Cure for Spiritual Blindness

The promise of the remnant ultimately finds its fulfillment in Jesus Christ. Humanity’s deepest problem is not merely ignorance but spiritual blindness. Left to ourselves, we cannot fully see God’s glory or understand His truth. Yet Christ came to open blind eyes and awaken dead hearts.

Jesus is the answer to Isaiah’s warning. Through His life, death, and resurrection, He provides forgiveness, renewal, and spiritual sight. He calls all people to repent, believe, and follow Him. The Holy Spirit empowers believers to remain alert, responsive, and faithful. As we abide in Him, our hearts remain tender, our eyes remain open, and our ears remain attentive to His voice.

To learn more about the call to spiritual vigilance, listen here:

https://podpoint.com/light-of-christ-church-podcast/sent-out

[1,2] Tyndale House Publishers. (2015). Holy Bible: New Living Translation . Tyndale House Publishers.

Lessons From Isaiah’s Commission

Tom Graves

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October 2, 2026

We can learn many lessons from Isaiah’s Commission. Isaiah 6:9 And he said, “Yes, go, and say to this people, ‘Listen carefully, but do not understand. Watch closely, but learn nothing.’ 10 Harden the hearts of these people. Plug their ears and shut their eyes. That way, they will not see with their eyes, nor hear with their ears, nor understand with their hearts and turn to me for healing.” [1] Isaiah 6:9-10. As you read these words, this is a difficult assignment from the Lord.

God commanded Isaiah to proclaim His truth to a people who would largely refuse to listen. Humanly speaking, this ministry seemed destined for disappointment. God called this prophet to speak His Word regardless of the response he received.

This passage reminds us that God does not deliberately make people blind, deaf, or hard-hearted. Rather, persistent resistance to God’s truth gradually dulls the heart’s ability to receive it. The more people reject God’s Word, the less responsive they become. Isaiah’s preaching would expose the condition of their hearts, revealing their continued rebellion against the Lord.

Believers today often face a similar challenge. Our responsibility is to faithfully proclaim His truth and leave the results in His hands.

The Reality of Obedience Amid Adversity

Isaiah’s commission teaches that obedience often carries a cost. Following God’s call may bring misunderstanding, criticism, loneliness, or disappointment. The prophet knew from the start that many would reject his message, yet God expected him to go.

This reality challenges modern Christians who are tempted to equate faithfulness with comfort or success. Scripture consistently teaches otherwise. God often calls His servants to persevere through adversity for His glory. Obedience does not depend on favorable circumstances or positive responses; it is rooted in trust that God’s purposes are greater than our immediate experience.

When we encounter resistance because of our faith, we should not be surprised or discouraged. Instead, we should recognize that faithful discipleship has always involved sacrifice.

Christ: The Perfect Example of Costly Obedience

The ultimate example of obedience is Jesus Christ. He proclaimed truth, called sinners to repentance, and demonstrated perfect love, yet He was rejected by many. He endured mockery and suffering, ultimately facing the cross. Still, He remained fully committed to the Father’s redemptive plan.

Christ’s obedience shows us that while faithfulness may involve suffering, it is never wasted. Through His sacrifice came redemption, salvation, and victory over sin and death. What appeared to be defeat became the means of God’s greatest triumph. As followers of Christ, He calls us to walk a similar path. Therefore, let us serve courageously, trusting that every act of faithful obedience brings glory to God and advances His purposes, regardless of the response we receive.

To learn more lessons from Isaiah’s commission, listen here:

https://podpoint.com/light-of-christ-church-podcast/sent-out

[1] Tyndale House Publishers. (2015). Holy Bible: New Living Translation (Is 6:9–10). Tyndale House Publishers.

Here I Am, Send Me

Tom Graves

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October 1, 2026

Isaiah’s powerful response to God was no accident. Isaiah 6:8b“I said, “Here I am. Send me.”[1]  Before he spoke those words, he had a life-changing encounter with the holiness of God. Standing before the Lord’s majesty, Isaiah became acutely aware of his own sinfulness and unworthiness. He cried out, recognizing that he was a man of unclean lips living among a people who were also spiritually needy. Yet God did not leave him in his brokenness. Through His grace, God cleansed Isaiah and prepared him for service.

The same pattern holds true today. God often calls us after revealing His holiness and love to us in a deeper way. When we spend time in His presence, He transforms our hearts. We begin to see ourselves honestly, receive His forgiveness, and recognize the needs around us. A heart touched by God’s cleansing fire becomes willing to serve. Our readiness to answer God’s call grows out of our relationship with Him.

A Willing Response to God’s Call

The nation of Judah desperately needed God’s message, and God desired a servant who would carry His word to the people. God had a question. Isaiah 6:8a“Whom should I send as a messenger to this people?” [2] Isaiah immediately volunteered. Unlike Moses, who initially questioned and resisted his assignment, Isaiah did not debate, negotiate, or delay. He simply made himself available to his Master.

What made Isaiah’s response so immediate? He had been in God’s presence and understood his own need for grace. He saw the spiritual condition of the people around him. Most importantly, he heard God’s heart for His people and the nations. Isaiah’s words, “Send me,” reflected complete surrender and trust.

God still calls believers today. The specific assignment may differ, but the response God desires remains the same: a willing heart. Never underestimate what God can do through one person who is fully available to Him.

Following the Example of Christ

Jesus Christ is our ultimate example of obedience. He willingly accepted the Father’s call and carried out His mission without hesitation. Though the path led to suffering and the cross, Jesus faithfully obeyed because of His love for the Father and for us. Through His life, death, and resurrection, He demonstrated what it means to be completely surrendered to God’s will.

As followers of Christ, He invites us into that same mission. God not only calls us but also equips us. He transforms reluctance into readiness, fear into faith, and weakness into strength. When we encounter God’s holiness and hear His voice, we are empowered to step forward in obedience. Today, consider where God may be sending you. Whatever the assignment, may our response echo Isaiah’s words: “Here I am. Send me.”

To learn more, listen here:

https://podpoint.com/light-of-christ-church-podcast/sent-out

[1-2] Tyndale House Publishers. (2015). Holy Bible: New Living Translation . Tyndale House Publishers.

From Unclean Lips to Holy Service

Tom Graves

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September 30, 2026

Isaiah is transformed from unclean lips to holy service as God calls him to be a prophet. Standing before the overwhelming holiness of God, Isaiah became painfully aware of his own spiritual condition. After seeing the Lord seated on His throne, he was in despair. Isaiah 6:5 “It’s all over! I am doomed, for I am a sinful man. I have filthy lips, and I live among a people with filthy lips.”[1]  The closer Isaiah came to God’s holiness, the clearer he saw his own sinfulness.

This is often the first step in spiritual transformation for many of us. We cannot experience God’s cleansing power until we honestly acknowledge our need for it. In a culture that promotes self-sufficiency, Scripture calls us to be vulnerable and honest before God.

Many believers struggle with feelings of inadequacy, believing their flaws disqualify them from serving God. Yet Isaiah’s experience teaches the opposite. Awareness of our spiritual condition is not the end of the story; it is the beginning of grace. God does not reject those who come to Him broken and aware of their need. Instead, He meets them to bring restoration.

The Grace That Purifies

Isaiah could not cleanse himself. His transformation required divine intervention. A seraph flew to him, carrying a burning coal from the altar and touched his lips. Isaiah 6:7 “10-1-26

” [2]  The very lips Isaiah identified as unclean became the point of God’s cleansing touch.

This burning coal symbolizes God’s purifying power. The coal came from the altar of sacrifice. It was the remnant of a blood sacrifice to redeem the sin. It reminds us that forgiveness is not something we achieve by our own efforts.

God Himself provides the means of cleansing. For Christians, this finds its ultimate fulfillment in Jesus Christ. Through His sacrifice on the cross, Christ became the perfect atonement for our sins. His blood cleanses us of all unrighteousness and restores us to fellowship with God.

No failure is beyond His grace. No past mistake is too great for His forgiveness. Just as God initiated Isaiah’s purification, Christ initiates our redemption and restoration. When we come to Him in repentance and faith, He removes our guilt and grants us a new identity. We don’t need to define ourselves by our sin but by His grace.

The Fire That Sends

God’s purification always has a purpose. He cleanses us so that we can participate in His work. Forgiveness ignites passion. Grace produces obedience. Those who have experienced God’s mercy become instruments of His mercy in the world.

The God who touched Isaiah’s lips still transforms lives today. Let us come honestly before Him, receive the cleansing Christ provides, and answer His call with courage. God’s purification fuels a passion for service, turning unclean lips into voices that proclaim His glory and advance His mission.

To learn more about the transformation from unclean lips to holy service, listen here:

https://podpoint.com/light-of-christ-church-podcast/sent-out

[1-2] Tyndale House Publishers. (2015). Holy Bible: New Living Translation. Tyndale House Publishers.

Doomed by Sin

Paula K. Graves

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September 29, 2026

After experiencing the worship of heaven and God’s holiness, Isaiah felt doomed by sin. Isaiah 6: 5 Then I said, “It’s all over! I am doomed, for I am a sinful man. I have filthy lips, and I live among a people with filthy lips. Yet I have seen the King, the Lord of Heaven’s Armies.” [1]

Isaiah realized that his life was in great contrast to the holiness of God. He promptly confessed his sin and understood how serious his problem was.

Woe is Me

The NLT interprets the beginning of verse 5 as “It’s all over!” The ESV translates it as “Woe is me!”[2] The Hebrew word translated woe means a passionate cry of grief or despair. [3] But the wider use of woe in Scripture has a greater connotation. “Woe is an exclamation of judgment upon God’s enemies, or of misfortune on oneself, or of sadness over those who fail to recognize the true misery of their condition.[4]

Here, Isaiah despairs over his sin, which he fears will bring his doom. He knows he deserves divine judgment for his sin and rebellion against God. Isaiah had heard the seraphim’s song of praise to God for His holiness. He knew that he was not holy and had seen God in the vision.

Isaiah would have known what God had said to Moses. Exodus 33: 19 The Lord replied, “I will make all my goodness pass before you, and I will call out my name, Yahweh, before you. For I will show mercy to anyone I choose, and I will show compassion to anyone I choose. 20 But you may not look directly at my face, for no one may see me and live.”[5]

Filthy Lips

Isaiah focused on filthy lips. This may sound odd to us today, but Jesus taught that filthy lips imply a sinful heart. Matthew 12: 34 You brood of snakes! How could evil men like you speak what is good and right? For whatever is in your heart determines what you say. 35 A good person produces good things from the treasury of a good heart, and an evil person produces evil things from the treasury of an evil heart.[6]

God’s vision made Isaiah aware of his personal sin and unworthiness. And not only was he sinful, but so were all the people around him. Isaiah needed transformation, or he was doomed to experience God’s judgment.

Our Call to Transformation

We must recognize our need for transformation before we are willing to let God transform us. When we, like Isaiah, are confronted with the might and purity of God’s presence, we must confess our sins. Then we must humbly acknowledge our need for grace. Jesus’ work on the cross provides the means for our reconciliation and cleansing. Romans 5: 18 Yes, Adam’s one sin brings condemnation for everyone, but Christ’s one act of righteousness brings a right relationship with God and new life for everyone.[7] We are no longer doomed by sin, but saved by grace through faith! What an awesome God we serve. To learn more, listen here:

https://podpoint.com/light-of-christ-church-podcast/sent-out

[1] Tyndale House Publishers. (2015). Holy Bible: New Living Translation (Is 6:5). Tyndale House Publishers.

[2] The Holy Bible: English Standard Version (Is 6:5). (2025). Crossway Bibles.

[3] Strong, J. (1995). In Enhanced Strong’s Lexicon. Woodside Bible Fellowship.

[4] Manser, M. H. (2009). Dictionary of Bible Themes: The Accessible and Comprehensive Tool for Topical Studies. Martin Manser.

[5-7] Tyndale House Publishers. (2015). Holy Bible: New Living Translation. Tyndale House Publishers.

Experiencing Holiness

Paula K. Graves

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September 28, 2026

Isaiah found himself experiencing holiness in a God-given vision. Isaiah 6: 2 Attending him were mighty seraphim, each having six wings. With two wings they covered their faces, with two they covered their feet, and with two they flew. 3 They were calling out to each other, “Holy, holy, holy is the Lord of Heaven’s Armies! The whole earth is filled with his glory!” 4 Their voices shook the Temple to its foundations, and the entire building was filled with smoke. [1]

The seraphim were heavenly beings who perpetually sang God’s praises. Even these beings don’t look directly at God. They cover their faces because they recognize God’s overwhelming holiness and majesty. “The traditional interpretation of the seraphim links them to the Hebrew word for “burning,” so some think these creatures are called “seraphim” because they burn with the love of God.”[2]

Holy, Holy, Holy

The seraphim praise God for being holy. “The Hebrew word for holy is “qodesh,” which means “apartness, sacredness,” or “separateness,” showing that God is altogether holy, sacred, set apart, or separate from His creation.”[3] Isaiah has encountered God’s absolute otherness and purity. A genuine encounter with God’s glory can strip away our complacency and move us towards a more intentional and passionate pursuit of His purposes.

Any time Scripture repeats a word, it increases its importance. Here the seraphim repeated the word “holy” three times. This implies the ultimate holiness of God. God’s power shakes the Temple and fills it with smoke. God can remove the earthly things that can be shaken and replace them with His things that cannot be shaken. The smoke would also block Isaiah’s direct view of God and help protect him from God’s overwhelming power.

Awe of God

Many of us have lost our awe of God. We want to remake our picture of God into something we can understand. We think of the word holy just meaning to be moral or to follow the rules and have lost the idea that God is totally unlike us. Isaiah’s vision helps us grasp God’s separateness, glory, and unapproachable holiness. The vision leaves us in awe of God.

When we see God as holy and majestic, it transforms our understanding of His character. His holiness is in great contrast to our sinfulness. It is only through the work of Jesus on the cross that we are enabled to approach God’s holiness with confidence. Through the power of the Holy Spirit, we want God’s holiness to permeate our lives to reshape our actions. The shaking of the Temple serves as a metaphor for how our lives should resonate with and be reshaped by God’s purposes.

Isaiah’s vision challenges us to live in constant awareness of God’s being and character. When we realize our need for Jesus because of God’s holiness, we are willing to carry out His mission to impact those around us. To learn more about experiencing holiness, listen here:

https://podpoint.com/light-of-christ-church-podcast/sent-out

[1] Tyndale House Publishers. (2015). Holy Bible: New Living Translation (Is 6:2–4). Tyndale House Publishers.

[2] Walker, L. L., Elmer A. Martens. (2005). Cornerstone biblical commentary: Isaiah, Jeremiah, & Lamentations (Vol. 8, p. 38). Tyndale House Publishers.

[3] https://www.whatchristianswanttoknow.com/what-is-the-biblical-definition-of-holy/

Encountering God on the Throne

Paula K. Graves

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September 27, 2026

In a vision, Isaiah found himself encountering God on the throne of heaven. Isaiah 6:1It was in the year King Uzziah died that I saw the Lord. He was sitting on a lofty throne, and the train of his robe filled the Temple.[1]

King Uzziah reigned for 52 years. He had started by pleasing God with his actions. As long as the king sought God’s guidance, he was successful. He had a powerful army and defeated the surrounding enemies. He also guided great building projects within the nation of Judah.

2 Chronicles 26: 16 But when he had become powerful, he also became proud, which led to his downfall. He sinned against the Lord his God by entering the sanctuary of the Lord’s Temple and personally burning incense on the incense altar. God punished Uzziah for this infraction with leprosy. This king who had started so well ended his reign badly.

God is Still on the Throne

Even though an earthly king had died, God revealed through a vision that He was still on the throne of creation. Isaiah encountered God’s sovereign power and majesty as He sat on a high and exalted throne. God continued to rule from the heavenly realm.

Isaiah noted an interesting detail: the train of God’s robe filled the Temple. Isaiah had worshiped in the earthly Temple that Solomon built. This earthly Temple was a copy of that in heaven. Hebrews 8: 5 They serve in a system of worship that is only a copy, a shadow of the real one in heaven.[2] In the culture of the day, only dignitaries and royalty would have a train on their robes. The longer the train, the more authority the individual had. Since God’s train filled the Temple, He had all authority.

Jesus is on the Throne

Isaiah’s encounter with God on the throne foreshadowed how Jesus would one day be on His throne. Jesus came to earth to die for our sins on the cross. This paid the blood price we could never pay. Jesus wipes away our sin debt as a gift to us for our salvation. We receive this gift through faith. In this life, we want to continue to grow in our faith.

Hebrews 12: 2 We do this by keeping our eyes on Jesus, the champion who initiates and perfects our faith. Because of the joy awaiting him, he endured the cross, disregarding its shame. Now he is seated in the place of honor beside God’s throne.[3] God honored Jesus for His work on the cross.

God not only gave Isaiah a vision of heavenly worship, He also gave the Apostle John a similar vision. John wrote this vision down in the Book of Revelation. Revelation 5: 13 And then I heard every creature in heaven and on earth and under the earth and in the sea. They sang: “Blessing and honor and glory and power belong to the one sitting on the throne and to the Lamb forever and ever.” [4] Even though our Heavenly Father and Jesus are seated on high and lofty thrones, they invite us into a relationship with them. This is only made possible through the work of Jesus on the cross. To learn more, listen here:

https://podpoint.com/light-of-christ-church-podcast/sent-out

[1-4] Tyndale House Publishers. (2015). Holy Bible: New Living Translation. Tyndale House Publishers.

Nourished in Community

Tom Graves

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September 26, 2026

The writer of Hebrews urges believers to be nourished in community. Hebrews 10:24 Let us think of ways to motivate one another to acts of love and good works. 25 And let us not neglect our meeting together, as some people do, but encourage one another, especially now that the day of his return is drawing near. [1] Jesus never meant Christianity to be a solitary journey. God created us to live, grow, and serve within a community of faith. Just as the body needs nourishment to stay healthy, our spiritual lives need the encouragement and support of fellow believers.

When we gather with other Christians, we are reminded that we are not alone in our struggles, doubts, or victories. The faith of others strengthens our own. Their prayers encourage us when we are weary, and their testimonies remind us of God’s faithfulness. Jesus Himself gathered disciples around Him, teaching them to grow together rather than in isolation. Likewise, our churches, small groups, and gatherings become places where God nourishes our hearts and renews our strength.

Encouraged to Persevere

One of the greatest gifts of Christian community is mutual encouragement. Life brings challenges, disappointments, and seasons of weakness. During such times, a timely word of encouragement can make the difference between standing firm and giving up. Hebrews urges believers to actively encourage one another because God knows how much we need each other.

 Meeting together helps a discouraged believer remember God’s promises. It is walking alongside someone carrying a heavy burden. It is lovingly holding one another accountable when we drift from God’s path. Through these acts, we reflect the love Jesus showed His followers. Isolation often leads to spiritual decline because we lose the support and wisdom that community provides. When believers gather regularly, they build strength, perseverance, and faithfulness to endure all seasons. In life, we are better together.

United in Hope and Mission

The writer of Hebrews connects Christian fellowship with anticipation of Christ’s return. Our gatherings are not merely social events; they are reminders of our shared hope. Every time we worship, pray, serve, and encourage one another, we proclaim that Christ is coming again.

Community helps us remain faithful witnesses in a world that often opposes God’s truth. Together, we inspire one another to live out Jesus’ selfless love and continue His mission. United believers can accomplish far more than isolated individuals.

Today, consider how you can both receive and give encouragement within your faith community. Reach out to someone who may need a word of hope. As you do, you will discover that God nourishes His people through one another, strengthening them to persevere until the day Christ returns. To learn more about being nourished in community, listen here:

https://podpoint.com/light-of-christ-church-podcast/nourished

[1] Tyndale House Publishers. (2015). Holy Bible: New Living Translation (Heb 10:24–25). Tyndale House Publishers.

Nourished in the Throne Room

Paula K. Graves

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September 25, 2026

The writer of Hebrews explains how we can be nourished in the throne room of heaven. We don’t have a celebratory feast as individuals, but as a group. We especially want to be in the presence of the one who is throwing the feast. God invites us to His feast (Isaiah 55:2); Jesus fed the people with physical food but also offered spiritual food (John 6). Now, because of what Jesus did on the cross, we can enter the throne room of heaven.

The Jewish Temple on earth was a copy of the heavenly Temple. The High Priest could enter the Most Holy Place, where the Ark of the Covenant was kept, only once a year during the Day of Atonement. And he could do this only with a blood offering. When Jesus died on the cross, the curtain which separated the Holy Place from the Most Holy Place supernaturally tore from top to bottom.

Mark 15: 37 Then Jesus uttered another loud cry and breathed his last. 38 And the curtain in the sanctuary of the Temple was torn in two, from top to bottom. [1] This new access in the earthly Temple mirrored our new access to the heavenly Temple. Jesus’ sacrifice opened the way for direct access to God. This opened a relationship with God for all believers because Jesus paid the price for our sin.

Enter into God’s Presence

In the Old Covenant, the High Priest could only visit the Most Holy Place once a year. In contrast, now in the New Covenant of Jesus, we are invited to dwell in God’s presence every day.

Hebrews 10: 19 And so, dear brothers and sisters, we can boldly enter heaven’s Most Holy Place because of the blood of Jesus. 20 By his death, Jesus opened a new and life-giving way through the curtain into the Most Holy Place. 21 And since we have a great High Priest who rules over God’s house, 22 let us go right into the presence of God with sincere hearts fully trusting him. [2]

The Greek word for “enter” (parresia) means admission or authorization for access. Believers have access to the heavenly sanctuary; that is, they have free access to God.[3] Previously, the High Priest had to mediate between the people and God. Now Jesus acts as our High Priest, making a way for us to have a relationship with God. His sacrifice on the cross created a perpetual and life-giving path to God’s presence.

God’s Presence Nourishes Our Souls

God invites us to draw near to Him through Christ, receiving the nourishment and strength we need to live out our faith wholeheartedly. Jesus continues to intercede for us and assures us of constant access and intimacy with God because of the forgiveness He offers. We can approach God with confidence, free from guilt and doubt.

The assurance of forgiveness and God’s presence deepens our faith by nourishing us daily and helping us overcome personal struggles. What do you need to change to be nourished in the throne room? To learn more, listen here:

https://podpoint.com/light-of-christ-church-podcast/nourished

[1,2] Tyndale House Publishers. (2015). Holy Bible: New Living Translation. Tyndale House Publishers.

[3] Barton, B. B., Veerman, D., Taylor, L. C., & Comfort, P. W. (1997). Hebrews (p. 158). Tyndale House Publishers.

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