Category: Doing God’s Will (Page 8 of 13)

Does God love some more than others?

January 6, 2026 / Wayne Johnson / 0 Comments

As I contemplated this question, I concluded God loves the “response” of some more than others.

Like parents and children, one child might do as directed most of the time while the other doesn’t. Parents do not love the obedient child more than the other; however, they do love the obedient child’s response more than the disobedient response. The obedient response shows a desire to please the parents by doing as told. (its a response of love)

In Scripture, we learn that Jesus died for everyone in the world and that God shows no partiality. Scripture also tells us to love God with all our heart, soul, mind, and strength, and Jesus said if we love Him, we will keep His commandments.

David was considered a man after God’s Own Heart; why? God tells us: “He will do my will.” Saul, on the other hand, lost his kingdom for doing “his own” will, not God’s.

King David made many huge mistakes and, unlike Christ, was far from perfect, yet David constantly turned to and relied on God; David pursued righteousness. (Respecting God and doing His will mattered to David)

We all have the same choice!

We can choose to follow God’s will by study, learning, and following the commands and examples of Scripture, to the best of our ability, or we can choose to follow our feelings, our ideas, or those adopted from others, then woefully expecting that if we are wrong, God will be ok with us because we had good intent. However, that is not what Scripture tells us, and when we do this, we set examples that mislead others from following Christ according to the directions God gave us in His Holy Word.

When we follow God according to His will, we spend our lives pursuing righteousness. In James chapter 5, we find the effective prayer of a righteous man can accomplish much. To have our prayers accomplish much, pursuing righteousness should be our goal so that our hearts may be where King David’s was in devotion to God.

John 3:16 tells us: “For God so loved the world, that He gave His only Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have eternal life.”

“So Peter opened his mouth and said: “Truly I understand that God shows no partiality, but in every nation, anyone who fears Him and does what is right is acceptable to Him.” Act 10:34-35

“And when he had removed him, he raised up David to be their king, of whom He testified and said, ‘I have found in David the son of Jesse a man after My heart, who will do all My will.’” Acts 13:22 ESV

“But now your kingdom shall not continue. The LORD has sought out a man after His own heart, and the LORD has commanded him to be prince over His people because you have not kept what the LORD commanded you.” Samuel 13:14

“Therefore, confess your sins to one another, and pray for one another so that you may be healed. The effective prayer of a righteous man can accomplish much.” James 5:16 NASB

God First!

Godly Sorrow, Repentance, Forgiveness, Baptism, Salvation, Accountability, Responsibility

A story Change

January 5, 2026 / Wayne Johnson / 0 Comments

I caught him stealing; he had broken into our home. I was upset and nervous as I held the gun. Then, he began begging me not to call the police, let him go, insisting he would not come back. We started talking, and he told me the harsh circumstances of his life that led him to this moment of crime. I began telling him about Christ and the forgiveness of sin available to him through Christ, how, if he would repent of his sins, change the direction of his life, and put on Christ in baptism, he could have forgiveness and eternal life in heaven, as well as a better life here on earth.

We sat at the table, opened a Bible, and studied for several hours. He came to understand God’s gift of grace, the Sacrifice of Jesus that offers us eternal life if we will pick up the cross and follow Jesus according to His will, not ours. We also discussed how following Christ does not relieve anyone of accountability for their actions.

During our study, this criminal came to believe in Christ, experienced godly sorrow, and wanted to begin making things right, so he reached into his pocket and handed me the jewelry he had taken. By doing so, he began taking responsibility for his actions and attempted to make things right. He informed me he wanted to be baptized. After hearing the word of God, he repented, confessed Jesus as the Son of God, and we took him to the pool and baptized him for the forgiveness of his sins, immersing him in water in accordance with Scripture.

After baptism, he understood that his decision did not absolve him of the consequences of his actions. His heart had changed; he now wanted to take responsibility and accept accountability, and I applauded his decision. We then called law enforcement.

Because of his sorrow and request that I forgive him; I did so and chose not to press charges. His decision to make things right was admirable, but it would be costly for him, since he had also broken into other homes and entered our country illegally. He knew, in his heart, that he needed also to correct these wrongdoings.

At least now, when he is deported to his country, he takes with him a greater purpose: to spread what he has learned about the message of Christ with others. Maybe he will return to America legally someday. I gave him my study Bible and contact information. I look forward to hearing from him about his efforts to share Christ.

While this story is fictitious, it’s also possible.

Following Christ does not negate accepting responsibility and accountability for one’s actions; it enhances it. If we genuinely love Jesus and righteousness, we will want to do what’s right, even if it means exchanging our loss of earthly freedom for eternal life in heaven. (Matthew 16:24-26, John 14:15, Romans 6:1-14, Mark 16:15, Philemon 1)

Scripture’s definition of Godly Sorrow: (2 Corinthians 7:9-13)

God’s Grace: Ephesians 2:8, Romans 3:24, Titus 2:11, Acts 15:11

Hearing the Gospel:– Romans 10:17, John 8:32

Belief/Faith: – Hebrews 11:1, John 8:24, Romans 10:17, Acts 3:19

Repentance of sin: – 2 Cor. 7:9-10, Luke 13:3-5, Acts 17:30

Confess Christ: – Romans 10:9-10, Matthew 10:32-33, Luke 12:8-9

Baptism by immersion for forgiveness of sin: – Matthew 16:15-16, 1 Peter 3:21, Acts 2:38, Mark 16:16, John 3:5, Matthew 28:18-20, Ephesians 4:5, Romans 6:3-4, Colossians 2:12, Acts 8:36-39, Mark 1:9-10, John 3:23

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The best advice

January 3, 2026 / Wayne Johnson / 0 Comments

So often, the best advice is not what we want to hear, as it does not give us what we “think” we want. So, we reject it!

We view our situation as unique; the biblical answer; too simple.

Biblical advice would require us to change our mindset, which, in a sense, implies the problem is with us. It requires effort on our part to correct our understanding and change direction.

God’s word points out that there is nothing new under the sun (in this world) and that if we humble ourselves to the Lord, He will lift us up.

God’s word is full of the best advice!

God’s advice may not be what we think we want. However, the best answers are found in God’s Word, and if we strive to follow it according to His will, God will bring us joy and peace that surpasses all understanding. He is, after all, the God of all comfort.

Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies and God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our affliction so that we will be able to comfort those who are in any affliction with the comfort with which we ourselves are comforted by God. For just as the sufferings of Christ are ours in abundance, so also our comfort is abundant through Christ. 2 Corinthians 1:3-5

Ecclesiastes 1:9
1st Peter 5:6
Philippians 4:7

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Wiping the dust off our feet

December 23, 2025 / Wayne Johnson / 1 Comment

In sharing Jesus, we must sometimes wipe the dust off our feet and move onward. This does not mean we suddenly stop caring, as we never stop, but it may mean the soil we are working with is not ready for the seeds of truth. I’ve had to do this many times with family, friends, and strangers when my efforts to share scriptural truth were rejected, ignored, or dismissed either kindly or with disdain.

Sometimes people read God’s Word for themselves, understand the context, but on some subjects refuse to believe what they’ve just read because it flies in the face of what they’ve been told, so they dismiss the discussion with words like: “That’s your opinion or interpretation!”

They will state they believe in God and that Scripture is God’s word, yet when confronted with the truth of God’s own words, the soil is not ready to accept the seeds, or maybe it just takes a different approach to get their full attention. Whatever the reason, when truth is rejected, we are in good company; Jesus was rejected, yet died for everyone, including those who rejected him, and even after His resurrection, some of the same rejected Jesus again.

When rejected, I respect their wishes and pray that my efforts will help condition the soil of their mind and heart. Maybe someone else’s approach will plant seeds that take root; perhaps mine or someone’s example will spark a conversation down the road that leads to better understanding. Wiping the dust off my feet doesn’t mean giving up or that we will never speak of the subject again.

In the meantime, I continue to plant seeds of truth, hoping to find those with fertile soil, those seeking to do all they can to follow Christ – even if it means change.

Jesus said, “If you love me, you will keep my commandments.” John 14:15

“If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross and follow me. For whoever would save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for my sake will find it. For what will it profit a man if he gains the whole world and forfeits his soul? Or what shall a man give in return for his soul? For the Son of Man is going to come with his angels in the glory of his Father, and then he will repay each person according to what he has done. Truly, I say to you, there are some standing here who will not taste death until they see the Son of Man coming in his kingdom.” Matt 16:24-28

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I was risking my soul; I could have lost it!

December 6, 2025 / Wayne Johnson / 0 Comments

In my mind, I began generating a list of people who have impacted my life. The list quickly became too long to count. Most were encouraging, loving, compassionate, and caring, while others were hateful, mean, threatening, and scary. Some vulgar, while others careful and thoughtful.

Some influencers were people users; some rejected friendships, while others worked to create them. Some were dishonest, greedy, and liars, with some constantly seeking their next high on drugs or alcohol. Thankfully, a few lived their lives striving to be like Christ, pursuing righteousness and working as disciples of Christ, believers in God, and students of Scripture. Simply put, our influencers throughout life contribute to who we become.

For many years, selfish desires guided me toward negative influences more than positive ones. I tried to straddle right and wrong, which led to more bad choices than good ones.

I didn’t want to think about my soul’s condition, yet I knew enough scripture to understand that unless I changed the direction of my life, Heaven WAS NOT my forever home.

I was risking my soul; I could have lost it!

I avoided, dismissed, ignored, and distanced myself from any conversation that might prompt me to think about the seriousness of my soul’s condition.

I had convinced myself I was a good person, and though I knew my lifestyle was against the teachings of scripture. I actually entertained the idea that I could plead ignorance before God; Now, that was sheer foolishness, and deep down, I knew it.

Twenty-two-plus years ago, circumstances beyond my control prompted me to rethink my path. First, small changes led to more noticeable ones, and then, in more recent years, many fundamental changes occurred.

The “old person” of my past is now gone, replaced with faith and trust in God. I no longer attempt to straddle fences and take comfort in knowing that my forever home will be in the mansions Jesus has prepared.

Jesus wants us all to hear and respond to the love of His message. God’s offer of forgiveness. He wants us all to believe and repent (change direction), confess Christ as His Son, be baptized into Christ for the forgiveness of our sins, and then walk through life as a “New person”, knowing our past sins are forgiven and forgotten by God.

Studying God’s word these last few years has significantly improved my understanding, as it can for anyone.

The question I now contemplate is: How can I help someone who is where I was 22-plus years ago?

How can I help others realize the need to make a change today?

How can I help others realize that by gambling their soul, “their influence” contributes to loved ones gambling with theirs?

How can I do my part to help others realize the seriousness of our choices?

Changing direction is easy when you replace your old desires with new ones and lean on the encouragement of your brothers and sisters in Christ.

Why gamble with eternity?

Why wait?

God First!

Our Forever Home

August 11, 2023 / Wayne Johnson / 0 Comments

In the last few days, I’ve seen several memories once shared on social media of past celebrations, as today would’ve been Dad’s birthday. But in November 2019, Dad went to his forever home. Thankfully, because of Dad’s (and Mom’s) commitment to doing God’s will according to God’s will, our family gets to celebrate with much confidence the hope of eternal salvation that is now no longer a hope but a reality to our Dad and Mom.

Every person on earth has the same offer today.

The Son of God lived the perfect life; in His innocence, Christ was sacrificed on the Cross (The perfect lamb) and was resurrected to what Jesus referred to as His Father’s house, a place with many mansions where He would prepare a place for us.

Jesus tells us, “I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by Me”; “If ye love Me, keep My commandments.”; “For My yoke is easy, and My burden is light.”

We miss our parents’ presence today but look forward to being with them again in that heavenly home prepared for those who love God with all their heart, soul, mind, and strength and will strive to keep Jesus’s commandments found in God’s Holy Word.

John 14:1-31 (the way, keep commands…)
Matthew 11:30 (burden is light)
Matthew 24:36-51 (No one Knows the Day or Hour)
1 Corinthians 15:52 (twinkling of an eye)

Grace:

Ephesians 2:8
Romans 3:24
Titus 2:11
Acts 15:11

Belief/Faith:

Hebrews 11:1
John 8:24
Romans 10:17
Acts 3:19

Repentance:

2 Cor. 7:9-10
Luke 13:3-5
Acts 17:30

Confess:

Romans 10:9-10
Matthew 10:32-33
Luke 12:8-9

Baptism by immersion for the forgiveness of sin:

Matthew 16:15-16
1 Peter 3:21
Acts 2:38
Mark 16:16
John 3:5
Matt 28:18-20
Ephesians 4:5
Romans 6:3-4
Colossians 2:12
Acts 8:36-39
Mark 1:9-10
John 3:23

2 Timothy 4:7-8 (Fight the good fight)
2 Corinthians 1:3-11 (God of all Comfort)
Philippians 4:4-7 (The Peace of God)

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Guard the Soil of your Soul

January 7, 2023 / Wayne Johnson / 1 Comment

We live in the midst of numerous blessings; Those we recognize and many more we don’t. Thank you, God, for All! Satan knows we always want more, so; he relentlessly seeks to prepare the soil of our souls with selfish desires.

Today, I found myself questioning whether a small thing we do to bring others joy is worth the effort. I know it will someday be meaningful to them, yet the effort often goes unacknowledged. Yesterday I began to think, why don’t we just quit; our efforts won’t even be missed. Nobody cares. It was at this point I realized Satan was tilling the soil of my mind trying to make me feel like we were wasting our time. He was attempting to plant seeds of self-pity and discontentment in order to have me waller in sadness and disappointment so I would give up.

Maybe this, in part, is why God’s Word says:

“And let us not grow weary of doing good, for in due season we will reap, if we do not give up.” (Galatians 6:9)

Well, hear this, Satan; if it is good, I will try to do it!

Doing good is not about me; acknowledgment and appreciation are Not My Goals. Doing good is my goal, even if or when the recipients don’t recognize it!

As Jesus said to Peter: “Go away, Satan!”

When I chose to follow Jesus, I did what we find in Luke 11:24-26 in the story of the demons; I swept my house and put it in order. My mind is my house, and Satan and his friends are not welcome here.

“…But as for me and my house, we will serve the Lord” (Joshua 24:15).”

Each of us is engulfed in blessings even if we don’t recognize them. I am thankful for all those blessings. If we pay attention, we can catch satan in the act of tilling our minds and planting seeds of destruction in our souls and say: Get away from me, Satan. However big or small, Never give up on doing good!

“Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of lights, with whom there is no variation or shadow du” to change.” James‬ ‭1‬:‭17‬ ‭

Thank you, Father God, for loving us!

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The Power is in the Gospel

January 3, 2023 / Wayne Johnson / 0 Comments

Preachers and teachers are needed to share the gospel. But, be cautious; don’t put your faith in what you are told or who shared it. Ultimately, we are each responsible for our own salvation.

When we each stand before judgment, it won’t matter what someone tells us. We have God’s word at our fingertips. We must each study for ourselves so that we may learn and be able to discern the truth found in God’s Word.

“For God is my witness, how I long for you all with the affection of Christ Jesus. And this I pray, that your love may abound still more and more in real knowledge and all discernment, so that you may approve the things that are excellent, in order to be sincere and blameless until the day of Christ; having been filled with the fruit of righteousness which comes through Jesus Christ, to the glory and praise of God.” Philippians 1:8-11 (NASB)

“Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.” 2 Timothy 2:15 (KJV)

“For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ, for it is the power of God to salvation for everyone who believes, for the Jew first and also for the Greek.” Romans 1:16 (NKJV)

“I am astonished that you are so quickly deserting Him who called you in the grace of Christ and are turning to a different gospel— not that there is another one, but there are some who trouble you and want to distort the gospel of Christ. But even if we or an angel from heaven should preach to you a gospel contrary to the one we preached to you, let him be accursed.” Galatians 1:6-8 (ESV)

“Therefore, my beloved, as you have always obeyed, so now, not only as in my presence but much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling,” Philippians 2:12 (ESV)

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Does God love some more than others?

January 18, 2022 / Wayne Johnson / 0 Comments

As I contemplated this question, I believe God loves the “response” of some more than others.

As with parents and children, one child might do as directed most of the time, while the other doesn’t. Parents do not love the obedient child more than the other; however, they do love the obedient child’s response more than the disobedient response. The obedient response shows a desire to please the parents by doing as told. (love)

In Scripture, we learn Jesus died for everyone in the world and that God shows no partiality. Scripture also tells us to love God with all our heart, soul, mind, and strength, and Jesus said if we love Him, we will keep His commandments.

David was considered a man after God’s Own Heart; why? God tells us: “He will do my will.” Saul, on the other hand, lost his kingdom for doing “his own” will, not God’s.

King David made many huge mistakes and was far from perfect, yet he constantly turned to and relied on God; David pursued righteousness. (doing God’s will mattered to David)

We all have the same choice!

Follow God’s will to the best of our ability by studying and following the commands and examples of Scripture or following our feelings, our ideas, or those of others.

When we follow God according to His will, we spend our lives pursuing righteousness. In James chapter 5, we find the effective prayer of a righteous man can accomplish much. To have our prayers accomplish much, pursuing righteousness should be our goal so that our hearts may be where King David’s was in devotion to God.

John 3:16 tells us: “For God so loved the world, that He gave His only Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have eternal life.”

“So Peter opened his mouth and said: “Truly I understand that God shows no partiality, but in every nation, anyone who fears Him and does what is right is acceptable to Him.” Act 10:34-35

“And when he had removed him, he raised up David to be their king, of whom He testified and said, ‘I have found in David the son of Jesse a man after My heart, who will do all My will.” Acts 13:22 ESV

“But now your kingdom shall not continue. The LORD has sought out a man after His own heart, and the LORD has commanded him to be prince over His people because you have not kept what the LORD commanded you.” Samuel 13:14

“Therefore, confess your sins to one another, and pray for one another so that you may be healed. The effective prayer of a righteous man can accomplish much.” James 5:16 NASB

God First!

Encourage and build-up

January 12, 2022 / Wayne Johnson / 0 Comments

“_{Therefore encourage one another and build up one another, just as you also are doing. But we request of you, brethren, that you appreciate those who diligently labor among you, and have charge over you in the Lord and give you instruction, and that you esteem them very highly in love because of their work. Live in peace with one another. We urge you, brethren, admonish the unruly, encourage the fainthearted, help the weak, be patient with everyone. See that no one repays another with evil for evil, but always seek after that which is good for one another and for all people. Rejoice always; pray without ceasing; in everything give thanks; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus. Do not quench the Spirit; do not despise prophetic utterances. But examine everything carefully; hold fast to that which is good; abstain from every form of evil}.”
‭‭1 Thessalonians‬ ‭5:11-22‬ (‭NASb)

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Category: Doing God’s Will (Page 8 of 13)

Does God love some more than others?

A story Change

The best advice

Wiping the dust off our feet

I was risking my soul; I could have lost it!