From the Heart of Brother Jesse – Wednesday, April 30, 2025 – The Family That Waits Together

Dear Brothers and Sisters,

The waiting season is not just a personal journey—it often affects those around us, especially our families. But waiting together is an opportunity for unity and shared spiritual growth. Families that pray together, read God’s Word together, and lean on one another through difficulty find themselves strengthened by faith and love.

Let us not withdraw during times of uncertainty but instead draw closer to our families, seeking God’s face together. Let your home be a sanctuary of encouragement and spiritual resilience.

Stand together. Pray together. Wait together.

Faithfully yours,
Brother Jesse
Co-founder & Sr. Chaplain
SFIHG Ministries

Mid-Week Message - The Frustrations of Life

"Dear brothers and sisters, be patient as you wait for the Lord's return.  Consider the farmers who patiently wait for the rains in the fall and in the spring.  They eagerly look for the valuable harvest to ripen.  You, too, must be patient.  Take courage, for the coming of the Lord is near."  James 5:7-8 (NLT)  

Some days it seems as if nothing goes right.  Maybe the alarm clock fails to go off.  Maybe the car doesn't start.  Whatever can go wrong seems to go wrong.  Have you experienced days like that?  Of course you have.  We all do from time to time.  It makes life seem tedious and we find ourselves asking if there is anything to really look forward to or if everyday will be the same.  

Irritations and frustrations abound in this world.  We each have numerous demands made on our time and energies and sometimes we just want to hide for awhile.  There used to be a commercial for a popular bubble bath where a woman closes her bathroom door behind her and says, "Calgon, take me away!"  We eagerly await weekends and vacations so that we can get away from the feeling that every single moment is spoken for.  We want to rest our bodies and silence the constant reminders in our heads of things that have to be done.  We long for a time of peace.  

Patience can be difficult to achieve.  We become so agitated inside that we may just want to scream for everyone to leave us alone.  It doesn't seem like we will ever reach the stage when we can look back and enjoy a job well done because our to-do lists are long and constantly getting longer.  

Today's verse urges us to be patient but it also gives us guidance about where our focus should be.  All of the earthly tasks set before us are temporary.  What is urgent today will be history tomorrow.  It is our tendency to place more importance on earthly matters that fade away than we do on those that are eternal.  Jesus will come again.  Scripture has promised us that.  There will come a day where the only thing that will matter is our relationship with Him.  I wonder how it would change our outlook on life if we kept that as our utmost thought.  

There was a book entitled Don't Sweat the Small Stuff, written by Richard Carlson, that was published in 1997.  The point the book makes is that we let so many things cause stress that really are insignificant.  In Matthew 22:37-39, Jesus tells us what is most important. "'Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.'  This is the first and greatest commandment.  And the second is like it, 'Love your neighbor as yourself.'"  

What we choose to focus on has great influence over how stressed, frustrated and irritated we feel.  If we can look at the tasks before us as momentary challenges that will soon pass, and keep our eyes and minds on the Lord's promises and our eternal future in Heaven with Him, then we will not be as likely to find ourselves wanting to run away and hide.  Rather, we will want to share the Good News with those around us, and, as farmer's waiting for the rain for their crops, develop divine patience knowing that at any time we could hear the glorious hallelujahs of Christ's return.  God bless.   

From the Heart of Brother Jesse – Tuesday, April 29, 2025 – Keeping Your Eyes on the Lord

Dear Beloved in Christ,

One of the greatest challenges in any waiting season is maintaining our focus. It is far too easy to become distracted by worry or consumed by what we cannot control. But the first pillar we discussed—Keeping God as Your Focus—grounds us and gives us strength.

Remember Isaiah 40:31 (NLT): “But those who trust in the Lord will find new strength.” Trust leads to strength. When we keep our eyes fixed on the Lord, we find peace in the unknown and courage in the quiet.

Let today be a day of recommitment. Fix your heart upon Him, and He will sustain you.

With grace and peace,
Brother Jesse
Co-founder & Sr. Chaplain
SFIHG Ministries

From the Heart of Brother Jesse – Monday, April 28, 2025 – Waiting with Purpose

Dear Friends,

Yesterday’s message, “The Strength Found in Waiting,” reminded us all that waiting is not wasted time. It is sacred time—time to grow, to trust, and to deepen our relationship with the Lord. Psalm 27:14 calls us to “wait patiently for the Lord,” not once, but twice. That repetition speaks to the reality we often face—waiting is hard, but it is also holy.

If you find yourself in a season of delay, know that the Lord is not idle. He is preparing, working, and shaping your life for something greater. Let your waiting be filled with worship, prayer, and the pursuit of God’s presence.

Hold fast, dear one. He is faithful.

In Christ’s service,
Brother Jesse
Co-founder & Sr. Chaplain
SFIHG Ministries

The Strength Found in Waiting

In the seasons of life where answers do not come swiftly and prayers seem to echo into silence, we are reminded by Scripture to “wait patiently for the Lord.” This verse from Psalm 27:14 is more than just a gentle whisper of comfort—it is a bold command to be brave, to be courageous, and to embrace patience not as passivity, but as active faith. In the challenges of delay, in the burdens of uncertainty, our hearts are tested, and our faith is refined.

As we examine this verse today, we do so through the lens of the Four Pillars of a God-Centered Life—pillars that uphold us when we grow weary and long for answers: 1) The Importance of Keeping God as Your Focus, 2) The Importance of Family, 3) The Simplification of Life, and 4) Being Healthy to Serve God. These principles are not mere ideals; they are disciplines that ground us during the waiting season, providing strength, clarity, and courage.

The Psalmist begins and ends this verse with a call to patience. But let us be clear—waiting on the Lord is not idle. It is an intentional act of surrender and devotion. In times of waiting, the temptation to shift our focus to the problem rather than the Provider is strong. However, when we fix our eyes on the Lord, we are reminded of His promises, His timing, and His faithfulness.

Isaiah 40:31 (NLT) echoes this truth: “But those who trust in the Lord will find new strength. They will soar high on wings like eagles.” Trust produces strength, and strength emerges not from striving, but from spiritual stillness and faith. When we choose to focus on God amid our uncertainty, we are not neglecting our problems—we are placing them in divine hands.

Let us then not waste our waiting. Let us worship in the waiting. Let us grow in the waiting. And above all, let us keep our eyes on the Lord, who is always working even when we do not yet see the outcome.

Our families are often the first to feel the strain of waiting. The burdens we carry—be it financial, physical, or emotional—often spill over into the lives of our spouses, children, and loved ones. But in that shared experience lies an opportunity for spiritual unity. Waiting together can bind us together, if we lean into the Lord as one.

Patience, courage, and bravery—those virtues mentioned in the Psalm—are cultivated in community. Within the home, families have the ability to uplift one another in prayer, speak encouragement into times of despair, and model steadfastness for one another. When a family prays together, studies the Word together, and waits together, they walk in unity before the Lord.

Let us not overlook the strength that can be drawn from our households during times of uncertainty. God did not intend for us to journey alone. Let us use waiting seasons to fortify our families spiritually and emotionally, that we may be courageous not just as individuals but as a family rooted in Christ.

In today’s world, our lives are often filled with noise—material, emotional, and digital clutter that distracts us from the voice of God. When the Psalmist calls us to wait patiently, he also invites us to slow down, to create space, and to simplify.

I speak from personal experience. Recently, my wife and I undertook the task of decluttering and reorganizing our home and storage spaces. What began as a physical activity became a spiritual awakening. In releasing the possessions that no longer served a purpose, we found more than just clean shelves—we found time. Time to sit together, to reflect, to read devotionals aloud, and to pray as one.

This act of simplification allowed us to reclaim not only space in our home but sacred space in our lives. We canceled our cable, turned off the distractions, and allowed the presence of God to fill our mornings and evenings. In the absence of clutter, we discovered clarity. In the quiet, we heard God’s voice.

I urge each of you to examine your own lives. What is keeping you too busy to wait on the Lord? What noise needs to be silenced so that His whisper can be heard? Sometimes, the answer is not in doing more but in removing what no longer aligns with God’s will for your life.

Waiting takes a toll not only on our spirits but also on our bodies and minds. That is why the final pillar—being healthy to serve God—is so essential. Psalm 27:14 does not only say to wait but to “be brave and courageous.” These are qualities that require strength, vitality, and endurance.

If our bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, as Paul reminds us in 1 Corinthians 6:19, then we must tend to these temples with the reverence they deserve. Just as Jesus cleansed the temple in Jerusalem, we are called to cleanse our lives of the things that defile—whether they be unhealthy habits, toxic mindsets, or anything that hinders our ability to serve and worship.

When we are physically, emotionally, and spiritually healthy, we can better carry the weight of waiting. We are equipped not just to endure but to grow and minister to others who are waiting too.

Let us honor the Lord by caring for the bodies He gave us, so that when He calls us forward, we are ready to rise with courage and strength.

The repetition in this verse—“Wait patiently for the Lord. Be brave and courageous. Yes, wait patiently for the Lord.”—is not by accident. It is a holy emphasis. A divine reminder that waiting is not a sign of weakness but of strength refined in trust.

God is never late. He is always on time. While we wait, He is working. While we rest, He is moving. And when we finally see the fruits of our patience, we will understand why the wait was necessary.

I ask you today, dear brothers and sisters, to examine your hearts and your homes. Are you waiting for something? Perhaps a healing, an answered prayer, a new direction? Use this season wisely. Recommit to focusing on God, unify your family in faith, clear away the distractions that drown out His voice, and care for the body and mind He has given you.

Take one step this week to live out each of these Four Pillars. Write it down. Share it with someone. And above all, trust the Lord in your waiting.

May the Lord strengthen your faith and use it for His glory, as you walk humbly in His presence.

📣 Message Announcement for Sunday, April 27, 2025 – “The Strength Found in Waiting”

Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,

This Sunday, April 27th at 12:00 PM EDT, I invite you to join me for a new message titled “The Strength Found in Waiting,” based on Psalm 27:14 (NLT): “Wait patiently for the Lord. Be brave and courageous. Yes, wait patiently for the Lord.”

In this message, we will reflect on the sacred act of waiting and discover how spiritual patience is sustained through the Four Pillars of a God-Centered Life—Keeping God as Your Focus, the Importance of Family, the Simplification of Life, and Being Healthy to Serve God. 

You will also hear a personal testimony of how God moved within my home and heart during a time of intentional simplification and redirection.

This message is meant to uplift and encourage all who find themselves in a season of waiting. Whether you are praying for guidance, healing, or renewal, may this word be a source of courage and peace.

Please mark your calendars and share this announcement with your friends, loved ones, and church family. Your act of sharing can be the vessel through which someone else hears a word of hope and draws nearer to the Lord.

As always, all our messages are freely available on our ministry website. We do not charge for access to God’s Word. Your continued prayers and support help us carry this Gospel message to all corners of the world.

In Christ’s love,
Brother Jesse
Co-founder & Sr. Chaplain
SFIHG Ministries

Mid-Week Message - Childlike Faith

"Then they brought little children to Him, that He might touch them; but the disciples rebuked those that brought them.  But when Jesus saw it, He was greatly displeased and said to them, "Let the little children come to me, and do not forbid them; for of such is the kingdom of God.  Assuredly, I say to you, whoever does not receive the kingdom of God as a little child will by no means enter it."  And He took them up in His arms, laid His hands on them, and blessed them."  Mark 10:13-16 (NKJV) 

"Do, Lord, oh do, Lord, oh do remember me!"  This is the song that was on my mind when I awoke this morning.  It brought back so many wonderful memories.  I learned it in Sunday School as a young child.  I can remember singing it in Vacation Bible School and even belting it out at school during recess.  As I grew older, I sang it to the children I babysat and, eventually, taught it to my own daughter.  It is such a simple little song but its verses remind us of the close relationship we have with our Lord.  

Childhood.  Young minds are open and accepting of what they are presented.  If we teach truth, they learn truth.  If we teach lies, they learn those lies as truth.  As we grow older and encounter the good and bad of life, we handle what is thrown at us with those early teachings as our foundation.  Jesus knew that it was easy for children to believe He was who He said He was.  He took the opportunity to speak words of blessing to them that they would carry for their entire lives.  They hadn't yet begun to question what they were taught.  They took it on simple faith.  

Wouldn't it be wonderful to return to that time when we didn't have to question everything that we see and hear?   Unfortunately this world is filled with those who lie to us and hide their motives for what they do.  Because of that, many of us have become analyzers.  After each encounter we go off and rethink everything that was said and done and develop our own opinions about what was meant.  The problem with that is that our Creator did not give us the ability to know what is in someone else's heart or mind.  Even worse, our habit of analyzing can often bleed over into our relationship with the Lord to the point where we find ourselves questioning His Word as absolute truth.  

In the Lord's presence, we need to allow ourselves to get beyond the walls that the hurt in this world has caused us to build.  God does not, cannot, lie.  In all that He does and says to us we can be assured to find nothing but truth.  We can sing songs like "Jesus Loves Me" and allow that childlike spirit within us to dance in the simplicity and joy that it brings.  We need not fear Him.  Like the children in today's verse, we can feel free to climb upon His lap and know that we will find nothing but pure love.  Simple faith is within our grasp.  Reach out and grab it and don't let go. 

He Is Risen Indeed: The Triumph of Grace Over the Grave

Easter Sunday is the most triumphant day in the Christian calendar. It is not merely a commemoration—it is a proclamation. It is the day the Church echoes the angelic announcement spoken at the tomb: “He isn’t here! He is risen from the dead!” Those words, simple yet profound, shattered the silence of the grave and set the course for every generation of believers.

On that early morning, women came to the tomb expecting to mourn. They came with spices, burdened by sorrow and wrapped in grief. But instead of a lifeless body, they found an empty tomb and a message that would change the world forever.

The resurrection of Jesus Christ is not merely the final chapter in the Gospel story—it is the very core of our faith. Without the resurrection, the cross would be a tragedy; with it, the cross becomes a triumph.

The resurrection is proof that Jesus is who He claimed to be—the Son of God, the Messiah, the Savior of the world. It is God’s stamp of approval on the finished work of redemption. Every promise made by Christ is validated by this event. Every prophecy concerning the Messiah finds its ultimate fulfillment in the empty tomb.

The Apostle Paul declared in 1 Corinthians 15:17 (NLT), “If Christ has not been raised, then your faith is useless and you are still guilty of your sins.” But Christ has been raised—and because of that, our sins are forgiven, our chains are broken, and our future is secure.

Easter is not just about what happened then—it is about what it means now. The resurrection means:

• We are no longer bound by fear, because Christ has overcome the greatest fear—death itself.
• We are no longer enslaved by sin, because the power of sin was defeated when Jesus walked out of that tomb.
• We are no longer hopeless, because the risen Lord offers eternal life to all who believe in Him.

The resurrection is God's declaration that love wins, that grace abounds, and that life—not death—has the final word. For every believer, Easter is the reminder that even the darkest Friday is followed by a glorious Sunday.

To believe in the resurrection is not only to accept a theological truth—it is to walk in resurrection life. Believers are called to live as those who have been raised with Christ, not simply awaiting heaven, but embodying the risen life here and now.

We are to be:

• People of hope in a hopeless world
• People of light in the midst of darkness
• People of grace in a culture that often lacks mercy

The empty tomb is not just a monument to victory—it is a gateway to transformation. The stone was rolled away, not so Jesus could get out, but so that we could see in and believe.

Today, the Church around the world declares in one voice: Christ is risen! He is risen indeed! And with that confession comes the charge: Live in the power of the resurrection. Proclaim it. Embody it. Rejoice in it.

Let us never forget what it cost. Let us never doubt what it accomplished. And let us never cease to praise the One who walked out of the tomb to bring life eternal to all who believe.

May the Lord strengthen your faith and use it for His glory, as you walk humbly in His presence.

🙏 Easter Sunday Prayer - A Prayer for the Risen Lord

Risen Lord and Savior,

We come before You with hearts overflowing with joy and thanksgiving.

You have shattered the darkness and brought forth the dawn of new life.

The stone is rolled away. The grave is empty. And because You live, we have hope.

Lord, help us to live as resurrection people—
Walking in faith, clothed in Your righteousness, and guided by Your Spirit.

May our lives reflect the glory of Your victory over sin and death.
Strengthen us to share Your love with a world still wandering in shadows.

We praise You, O Lamb of God, who was slain and now reigns forever.

You are our Redeemer, our King, and our Eternal Hope.

In Your matchless and mighty name, we pray,
Amen.

📣 Announcement for Easter Sunday Message

Dear Friends of SFIHG Ministries,

We invite you to join us this Easter Sunday, April 20, 2025, at Noon (Eastern Time) for a powerful message of hope and resurrection titled:
“He Is Risen Indeed: The Triumph of Grace Over the Grave”

On this most sacred of days, we will celebrate the victory of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, who conquered death and rose in glory. This message is a call to all believers to renew their faith, rejoice in the promise of eternal life, and live boldly in the power of the resurrection.

Please mark your calendars and share this announcement with family, friends, and loved ones. Use your social media platforms, emails, and personal conversations to help us spread the Good News. By doing so, you become a part of this ministry’s mission to bring the light of Christ into a world longing for truth, peace, and salvation.

Let us gather as a community of believers—rejoicing in the risen Lord, and proclaiming together:
“He is not here. He is risen!”

In His Service,
Brother Jesse
Co-founder & Sr. Chaplain
SFIHG Ministries

Pierced for Our Transgressions: The Cost of Redemption

On this solemn day, the skies grow dark not only in remembrance but in reverence. Good Friday—so named not for the pain it brought but for the redemption it accomplished—is the day the Lamb of God was led to the slaughter, bearing upon Himself the sin-stained burden of all humanity.

We often rush to Sunday’s empty tomb, eager for the hope of resurrection. But today we must pause and stand at the foot of the cross. We must see, truly see, the cost of our salvation.

He was not merely arrested—He was betrayed.
He was not only beaten—He was scourged beyond recognition.
He was not simply executed—He was crucified, forsaken, and pierced through... for us.

The cross was not an accident of history. It was the plan of God from the beginning. From the garden where sin first entered, to the hill called Golgotha where sin was judged, the scarlet thread of God’s mercy weaves a tapestry of love that defies comprehension.

We read in Isaiah that He was pierced for our rebellion, crushed for our sins—and that the punishment which brought us peace was laid upon Him. There is no greater injustice in all of human history than the death of the sinless Son of God. Yet there is no greater mercy than this: that He did it willingly.

He was not a victim. He was the Victor.

This Good Friday, let us not look away. Let us gaze deeply upon the cross—not with guilt that binds us, but with gratitude that frees us. Let us remember that His final breath opened the way for our new life.

And let our response be more than solemn reflection. Let it be a renewed commitment to live as those who are redeemed—not by silver or gold, but by the precious blood of the Lamb.

May the Lord strengthen your faith and use it for His glory, as you walk humbly in His presence.

From the Heart of Brother Jesse – Friday, April 18, 2025 – A Life of Wholeness

Dear Beloved in Christ,

As we close this week’s reflections, I want to remind you of this: God desires your wholeness—not just your salvation, but your renewal in every part of life. He cares about your heart, your mind, your relationships, and yes, your health.

The four pillars we have explored—keeping God first, valuing family, simplifying your life, and caring for your health—are not independent concepts. They are interwoven truths that build a life strong in the Lord and fruitful for His Kingdom. When you walk in these principles, you will find a new kind of peace: the peace that comes from alignment with His will.

This weekend, take time to thank God for your body, your breath, and your calling. Then ask Him how you can live more fully for Him—in strength, in clarity, and in joy.

With joy in Christ,
Brother Jesse
Co-founder & Sr. Chaplain
SFIHG Ministries

The Table of Servanthood: Love in Action

On this holy evening, as we recall the final hours of our Lord’s earthly ministry before the cross, we are drawn to an upper room where eternity touched time, and divine love was poured out not only in bread and cup, but in basin and towel.

Maundy Thursday—derived from the Latin mandatum, meaning “commandment”—commemorates the new commandment our Lord gave: “Love one another. Just as I have loved you, you should love each other” (John 13:34, NLT). This love was not theoretical or poetic. It was gritty, tangible, and humbling. The Son of God—on His knees—washing the feet of men who would soon betray, deny, and abandon Him.

He washed them anyway.

Jesus' act of foot washing was more than cultural hospitality—it was the revelation of true leadership in God’s kingdom. It was the embodiment of grace, of servant-hearted love that kneels in humility to lift another. In doing so, He provided not just a demonstration but a directive. “Do as I have done to you.”

As we gather in remembrance, may we not merely commemorate the Last Supper or acknowledge a distant historical act. Let us draw near to the table of Christ and examine our hearts. Are we living lives of servanthood? Are we washing the feet of others through acts of love, forgiveness, and sacrifice?

Let us not rush past the basin and towel. For before the cross, there was the cleansing. Before the sacrifice, there was the serving.

May tonight awaken in us a deeper desire to embody the love of Christ, not just in sacred gatherings, but in the quiet, unseen moments of daily living.

May the Lord strengthen your faith and use it for His glory, as you walk humbly in His presence.

From the Heart of Brother Jesse – Thursday, April 17, 2025 – A Steward’s Responsibility

Dear Friends,

We often speak of stewardship in terms of time, money, or spiritual gifts—but have you considered your health as part of your stewardship? God gave you your body not by accident, but by design. He entrusted it to you not for self-glory, but for His glory.

To steward something means to care for it with diligence and devotion, knowing it does not belong to you. Your body is no different. It was bought at a price—Christ’s own blood—and entrusted to you for worship and work in His name.

This week, reflect on how you’ve been stewarding your health. Where might God be calling you to make changes—not out of pressure, but out of praise? Your daily choices can be small acts of faithfulness that honor the Giver of life.

In faithful service,
Brother Jesse
Co-founder & Sr. Chaplain
SFIHG Ministries

From the Heart of Brother Jesse – Wednesday, April 16, 2025 – Strength for Service

Dear Faithful Servants of God,

There is great joy in serving the Lord, but let us not overlook that service requires strength—physical, emotional, and spiritual. When we care for our health, we are preparing ourselves to walk further, stand longer, love deeper, and endure more for the sake of the Kingdom.
This is not about perfection. It’s about readiness. Are you ready to go where God sends you? To stand and speak truth? To comfort the brokenhearted, carry the burdens of others, or minister with energy and compassion?

Make health a priority not for yourself alone, but for those you are called to serve. Eat to nourish, move to strengthen, rest to restore, and pray to remain focused. When we are strong in body and spirit, we can give more, do more, and love more in the name of Jesus.

With strength in Christ,
Brother Jesse
Co-founder & Sr. Chaplain
SFIHG Ministries

Mid-Week Message - Because of Friday

"And may you have the power to understand, as all God’s people should, how wide, how long, how high, and how deep his love is. May you experience the love of Christ, though it is too great to understand fully. Then you will be made complete with all the fullness of life and power that comes from God."  Ephesians 3:18-19 (NLT)  

He didn't have to do any of it.  He didn't have to allow Himself to be arrested, but He did.  He didn't have to let them scourge Him.  He didn't have to let them humiliate Him. He certainly could have exercised His power to stop it.  He didn't have to accept a crown of thorns being placed on His head or let anyone spit on Him, yet, He did.  At any time He could have stopped His own crucifixion.  He could have avoided having spikes driven through His flesh, being raised up on that cross, having His clothing stripped away.  After all, He was so much more than a mere man.  He was God in the flesh.  He could have called a legion of angels to rescue Him, or just come down from the cross on His own and struck the soldiers dead.  

Instead, He allowed all of it.  Everything that happened that horrible Friday took place with His permission.  Have you ever thought of that?  He could have said "no" to carrying His own cross.  He could have said "no more" at any time during that dark day.  We know the human part of Him was reluctant to go through with it because He prayed in the garden that the Father would "remove this cup from me."  And it wasn't simply a quick prayer.  It was heart-wrenching.  

So why didn't He say no to Friday?  The answer is this: Without Friday, there would have been no Sunday.  His love for us is so great that He was willing to endure the storm of Friday so that we could have the peace that Sunday brought.  The sacrifice was made.  Death has been defeated.  Our forgiveness and eternal life have been secured.  

Each year as Easter approaches, in my mind I hear the hammer pounding the nails.  What a horrific sound that must have been.  Precious Jesus, our Savior, laid out on the cross and having to endure such pain!  What agony He must have gone through as they raised up that cross and his body fought gravity as He struggled to keep Himself in a position where He would be able to breathe.  All because of the love He has for each of us.  Nails didn't keep Him on the wood.  Love did.  

I have a hard time understanding love that is that deep and pure.  Maybe you do too.  That He chose the nails rather than to allow us to perish is mind boggling. But that is what took place.  You and I were more important to Him than anything He experienced that awful day.  

As we observe Good Friday, let's remember that He was willing to go through the agony for our sake.  And on Easter Sunday, as we rejoice in His resurrection, and each day that we walk in the freedom that His actions provided us, can we each take at least a moment to ask ourselves what we are willing to do for Him?

From the Heart of Brother Jesse – Tuesday, April 15, 2025 – When Jesus Cleansed the Temple

Dear Brothers and Sisters,

In the Gospels, we see Jesus enter the temple courts and find them filled with distraction, corruption, and noise. He responded with holy zeal, overturning tables and driving out what defiled the sacred space. He declared, “My house shall be called a house of prayer.” That moment was not only about buildings—it was about holiness.

Now consider this: Your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit. What tables might need overturning? What habits, indulgences, or neglect have crept in and taken residence where reverence should dwell?

This is not a call to guilt—it is a call to cleansing. It is a call to rededicate yourself to a life that reflects God’s holiness and readiness. Ask the Lord today to help you remove anything that dishonors the temple He has made of you. Begin again, with prayer, purpose, and purity.

In Christ’s righteousness,
Brother Jesse
Co-founder & Sr. Chaplain
SFIHG Ministries

From the Heart of Brother Jesse – Monday, April 14, 2025 – A Temple, Not an Afterthought

Dear Friends in Christ,

As we begin this week, let us reflect on a truth we often forget in the busyness of life: your body is not an afterthought—it is a temple. Paul writes in 1 Corinthians 6:19–20 that we are not our own, but have been bought with a price. Therefore, we are to honor God with our bodies. This is not merely a suggestion—it is a sacred calling.

Too often, we give our physical well-being only passing concern. We press on through fatigue, overlook poor habits, and see self-care as optional. But beloved, when we neglect the vessel God has given us, we may be hindering the very ministry to which He has called us. You are a temple—not of stone, but of the Spirit. Treat it as such, with reverence and gratitude.

Today, take one small step to care for this temple: rest well, drink water, take a walk, or simply give thanks for the body God has entrusted to you. In caring for it, you honor Him.

In grace and peace,
Brother Jesse
Co-founder & Sr. Chaplain
SFIHG Ministries

Hosanna in Humility: The King Who Came in Peace

On this sacred day, we remember the triumphant entry of our Lord and Savior into Jerusalem—a moment full of celebration, symbolism, and significance. Palm Sunday marks the beginning of Holy Week, a journey that starts in jubilant praise and will lead us through the somber shadows of the cross before revealing the radiant light of the resurrection.

The people who gathered along the dusty road into Jerusalem lifted their voices in shouts of “Hosanna!” and waved palm branches, a traditional symbol of victory and peace. They believed their Messiah had come to restore their nation, to free them from Roman oppression, and to take His rightful place upon a worldly throne.

But Jesus did not come to fulfill their expectations—He came to fulfill the Father’s will.

The King entered not on a warhorse but upon a humble donkey’s colt. This was not a parade of political conquest, but a procession of peace, prophecy, and purpose. The crowd sought a deliverer from tyranny, but Christ came to deliver them—and us—from sin, death, and separation from God.

This moment of praise, although genuine in its expression, was incomplete in its understanding. The same voices that shouted “Hosanna” would, in only a few days, be stirred to cry “Crucify Him.” How quickly we, too, can shift from worship to wandering, from reverence to rebellion, when our expectations are unmet.

Palm Sunday calls us to ask ourselves: What kind of King are we looking for? Are we seeking a Savior who serves our desires, or are we willing to follow the humble King who calls us to die to self and live in Him?

Let this be a time of introspection and realignment. The One who rode into Jerusalem still rides into hearts today—not with grandeur, but with grace. He is the Prince of Peace, not only in name but in nature, and He bids us follow Him in humility, obedience, and unwavering trust.

As we enter this Holy Week, may we walk beside our Lord with deep gratitude, fully embracing His mission and message. Let us not miss the meaning behind the palm branches or the prophetic symbolism of the donkey. Let us not merely celebrate His coming but consecrate our hearts to His kingdom.

And finally, let us go beyond waving palm branches on Sunday—let us live lives that declare “Hosanna” every day, not in mere word, but in deed and devotion.

May the Lord strengthen your faith and use it for His glory, as you walk humbly in His presence.

Being Healthy to Serve God

As we arrive at the fourth and final pillar in our “Four Pillars of a God-Centered Life” series, we come to a truth that is often overlooked in discussions of spiritual living, yet it is one of great significance: being healthy in order to serve God. Over the past several weeks, we have reflected on the importance of keeping God as our focus, nurturing our families with love and faith, and simplifying our lives to make space for what matters most. Each of these pillars has helped us realign our lives with God’s purpose. Now we turn to the vessel through which all ministry, service, and worship is carried out—our physical bodies.

Scripture teaches us that our bodies are not our own. They are temples of the Holy Spirit, purchased with the precious blood of Christ. As the Apostle Paul writes in 1 Corinthians 6:19–20, “Do you not know that your bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own; you were bought at a price. Therefore honor God with your bodies.” These verses are not simply about avoiding sin—they are a call to sacred stewardship. Our health—physical, mental, and emotional—plays a vital role in our ability to walk in obedience, to lead our families, to love our neighbors, and to serve God with energy and joy.

This message is not about worldly fitness or appearance. It is about faithful readiness. It is about recognizing that when we neglect our health, we may also limit our ability to carry out the good works God has prepared for us. Let us now explore what it means to live a life that honors the Lord through our bodies, and how we may be strengthened—not for self—but for the glory of God and the service of His Kingdom.

The body, though physical and temporal, plays a sacred role in the believer’s spiritual life. It is the vessel through which we speak words of encouragement, extend hands of compassion, and walk the paths of obedience that God has set before us. Our bodies are not incidental to our faith—they are instruments of worship and service. As such, they must not be neglected or abused, but rather cared for with the reverence due to something entrusted by God for His divine purposes.

In Romans 12:1, Paul makes this appeal: “I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship.” This offering is not symbolic—it is practical. It involves how we treat our physical selves, how we rest, how we nourish, and how we preserve the strength God has given us so that we might be useful in His Kingdom.

Even the simplest acts—cooking a meal for a neighbor, teaching a child, standing in worship, or going where God sends us—require the cooperation of the body. When we neglect our health, we limit not only our comfort but also our capacity to serve. Our physical vitality, when rightly stewarded, becomes a tool for ministry. And in honoring our bodies, we honor the Lord who designed them and dwells within them through His Spirit.

It is a truth we must confront with both humility and hope: when we neglect our health—whether through inaction, poor habits, or the relentless busyness of life—we often limit the very vessel God has entrusted to us for His service. A weary, burdened, or broken-down body can hinder the joyful execution of ministry. Fatigue steals energy meant for compassion. Poor choices weaken the strength needed for obedience. And unresolved stress clouds the clarity of God's calling.

We do not speak of perfection, nor do we speak with condemnation. Rather, we speak with the understanding that a healthy body is a gift that equips us to love, serve, and glorify God more fully. When we care for our health in the spirit of stewardship, we are not chasing vanity—we are choosing vitality for the sake of God’s Kingdom.

The importance of this truth becomes even clearer when we look to the example of our Lord in John 2:13–17. Upon entering the temple courts, Jesus found them filled not with reverence, but with distraction—money changers, merchants, and exploitation. In righteous indignation, He cleansed the temple, declaring, “My house shall be called a house of prayer.” He was not just restoring order—He was reestablishing sacred purpose.

In much the same way, our bodies—temples of the Holy Spirit—can become cluttered and misused. We may fill them with unhealthy habits, neglect, stress, or indulgence. Yet the Spirit of Christ calls us to cleanse and restore this sacred space—not with violence, but with discipline, repentance, and reverence. We are invited to reclaim our bodies for the purpose for which they were created: to be vessels of worship and instruments of holy service.

Let us be willing to examine our lives, to cast out what distracts and defiles, and to rededicate these earthly temples to the glory of the One who bought us at a price.

When we embrace a simplified life—as we explored in the previous message—we open our hearts and homes to the gentle order of God’s design. That same simplification, when applied to our health, allows us to steward our physical well-being with greater clarity and intention. Simplicity is not merely about having less—it is about living with purpose. And that purpose includes caring for the body God has entrusted to us.

When our lives are overfilled with commitments, stress, and distractions, our health often suffers. Meals are rushed or skipped. Rest becomes secondary. Exercise is postponed. We push our limits until fatigue becomes familiar and illness is quietly accepted. But when we simplify, we reclaim time for things that nourish—not just the soul, but also the body. We are better able to eat mindfully, rest intentionally, and move regularly—all acts that support our ability to serve with strength and joy.

As with every other area of our lives, health is a matter of stewardship. We are called to manage our time, our resources, and our relationships for God's glory. Our bodies are no different. They are not to be neglected, nor idolized, but cared for in a way that reflects gratitude to our Creator. Just as simplifying our possessions helped my wife and me refocus on what truly mattered, attending to our health becomes an act of honoring the Lord—giving Him our best, so that we may be fully present, ready, and able to do His will.

In this way, the third and fourth pillars stand side by side. A simplified life prepares the way for faithful stewardship of the body. And a healthy body, in turn, supports a more focused, fruitful, and God-honoring life.

When we speak of honoring God with our bodies, we are not merely discussing wellness—we are bearing witness to our faith. Every act of care we extend toward our health becomes a quiet testimony that we believe our lives are not our own, but belong fully to the One who redeemed us. Stewarding our physical health with diligence and humility proclaims to the world, “My body is a vessel of worship, a tool for service, and a dwelling place of the Holy Spirit.”

This testimony is most powerful when it is lived out in the everyday—when we choose to rest instead of overextend, to eat with wisdom instead of indulgence, to move in strength instead of remain idle, and to approach each day not with self-centered goals, but with a desire to be ready for whatever God may call us to do. In this way, caring for our bodies becomes an extension of discipleship.

It is not about perfection, nor is it about appearance. It is about readiness. A healthy body allows us to minister without hesitation, to serve without fatigue becoming a constant obstacle, and to be present for our families and our fellow believers in meaningful, lasting ways. It means we are able to pray longer, stand stronger, endure more, and love better. Even in times of sickness or physical limitation, our willingness to honor God through how we care for ourselves can be a beacon of hope and a model of faithfulness.

In a world that often seeks health for self-glory, we seek it for God's glory. That is the difference. That is the witness. Our bodies, though temporary, are sacred. When we care for them in reverence and gratitude, we show the world that we serve a living God who is worthy of every part of our lives—even our physical strength.

As we bring this series to its final message, I pray that these four pillars—keeping God as your focus, nurturing the family, simplifying life, and being healthy to serve—have not only spoken to your heart, but have also offered practical direction for your walk with Christ. Though today’s message marks the end of this particular series, it is by no means the end of the journey. In truth, it is the beginning of a renewed way of life, built upon the firm foundation of God’s truth, love, and purpose.

In the weeks ahead, I will be prayerfully seeking how the Lord might lead us to build further upon these truths—perhaps through expanded messages, devotionals, or even a published work that gathers the fullness of these teachings into one unified volume. However the Lord leads, my prayer is that you will continue walking forward, applying these pillars not as distant ideals, but as daily, Spirit-led practices.

The strength of a God-centered life is not measured in grand moments, but in quiet obedience—day by day, choice by choice, step by step. May you be encouraged to live that kind of life, shaped by God’s Word and sustained by His grace.

Beloved, as we close this message and complete our journey through the Four Pillars of a God-Centered Life, I urge you to prayerfully consider the stewardship of your body as an offering to the Lord. Just as we are called to honor Him with our hearts, our time, and our resources, so too are we called to honor Him with our physical selves. This is not a call to vanity or self-reliance, but a call to readiness—to be fully present and able to serve God with joy, strength, and endurance.

Ask yourself today: Am I honoring God with the way I care for the body He has entrusted to me? Are there habits, patterns, or neglect that hinder my ability to serve Him and others? What one step can I take this week to restore this temple and prepare it for His service?

Perhaps it is getting more rest, taking a walk, preparing a healthier meal, setting boundaries that protect your peace, or seeking medical or emotional help where needed. Whatever that step may be, let it be an act of worship. Let it be a declaration that your body belongs to God, and that you desire to be a faithful steward of every part of your life.

Let us not wait until our strength is gone to offer ourselves to the Lord. Let us offer our best today. And in doing so, may our lives be a living sacrifice—holy, pleasing, and wholly devoted to His glory.

As we conclude this message and bring the Four Pillars of a God-Centered Life to a close, let us do so with the sobering and empowering reminder found in 1 Thessalonians 5:6, 8 (NIV):

“So then, let us not be like others, who are asleep, but let us be awake and sober... putting on faith and love as a breastplate, and the hope of salvation as a helmet.”

These words remind us to live alert, intentional, and prepared—not only spiritually, but also physically and emotionally. A God-centered life is not a passive existence. It is a deliberate, daily commitment to walk in the light of His Word, to guard the sacred gifts we’ve been given, and to use every part of our lives—including our health—for the glory of the One who has redeemed us.

You are not your own. You were bought with a price. Therefore, let your whole life—heart, soul, mind, and body—be a testimony of gratitude and reverence.

May the Lord strengthen your faith and use it for His glory, as you walk humbly in His presence.

📣 Ministry Announcement: “Being Healthy to Serve God” – Final Message in the Series

Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,

Please join me this Sunday, April 13, 2025, at Noon (ET), as we bring to a close our special message series, “The Four Pillars of a God-Centered Life.” Over the past few weeks, we have explored the foundational truths that help us build a life rooted in God’s purpose and presence. This Sunday, we turn to the final pillar:

“Being Healthy to Serve God”

In this message, we will examine how caring for our physical bodies is not a matter of vanity or self-preservation, but of faithful stewardship. Scripture tells us that our bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit—vessels through which we love, serve, and glorify God. When we neglect our health, we risk limiting our ability to serve effectively. When we care for our bodies in reverence, we honor the One who created and redeemed us.

I’ll also share a powerful comparison between Jesus cleansing the temple and our responsibility to cleanse our lives—physically, mentally, and spiritually—so that we may be fully available to God’s calling. This message will encourage you to take practical steps toward honoring God with your whole being.

📖 Key Verse: “You are not your own; you were bought at a price. Therefore honor God with your bodies.” – 1 Corinthians 6:19–20

Let us finish this series strong, with hearts and lives rededicated to serving the Lord with strength, clarity, and conviction.

With gratitude in Christ,
Brother Jesse
Co-founder & Sr. Chaplain
SFIHG Ministries

From the Heart of Brother Jesse – Friday, April 11, 2025 – The Gift of a Simpler Life

Dear Faithful Friends,

As we conclude this week of reflection on the third pillar—The Simplification of Life—I want to leave you with this truth: a simpler life is not an empty life; it is a full one, filled with what matters most. It is rich in peace, in presence, in prayer, and in purpose. It is a life less crowded by noise and more open to the quiet leading of the Holy Spirit.

My wife and I didn’t realize just how much we had allowed the world to steal our time and attention until we began letting go. What we found was not loss—but freedom. Freedom to pray without hurry. Freedom to connect with each other deeply. Freedom to worship without distraction. We are not perfect in this journey, but we are more aware, more intentional, and more grateful.

Dear friend, simplifying your life is not just about organizing or reducing—it is about reordering your life according to God’s priorities. It is about making room for holiness, for joy, for quietness, and for truth. It is about returning to the feet of Jesus and choosing, like Mary, what is better.

I encourage you to take a quiet moment this weekend. Ask the Lord to show you one way you can continue to pursue a simpler, God-focused life. Then walk forward in that calling with confidence, knowing that every step closer to Him is a step toward peace.

With simplicity and grace,
Brother Jesse
Co-founder & Sr. Chaplain
SFIHG Ministries

From the Heart of Brother Jesse – Thursday, April 10, 2025 – Choosing Peace Over Pressure

Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,

One of the quiet but powerful lessons we’ve learned through simplifying our lives is this: peace must be chosen. It does not simply arrive at our doorstep—we must make room for it, guard it, and nurture it. For so long, we allowed the pressures of life to dictate our schedules, our purchases, and even our prayers. But pressure and peace cannot dwell in the same heart. One must surrender to the other.

The Word of God offers a better way. “Better is a little with the fear of the Lord than great treasure and trouble with it” (Proverbs 15:16). That verse speaks not only of finances, but of priorities. Great treasure—whether material, social, or professional—can bring with it great anxiety if God is not at the center. When we choose to simplify, to release what we do not need, we step away from pressure and toward peace.

You may find, as we did, that the world will not understand this decision. Some may question why you’re letting go of certain commitments or possessions. But when your soul is quiet, your family is strengthened, and your time is spent in the presence of the Lord—you will know you’ve chosen well.

Today, choose peace over pressure. Choose stillness over striving. Choose what draws you into the presence of God and leads your family in His way.

With a heart at rest in Him,
Brother Jesse
Co-founder & Sr. Chaplain
SFIHG Ministries

From the Heart of Brother Jesse – Wednesday, April 9, 2025 – Making Room for What Matters

Dear Friends in Faith,

There is something deeply spiritual about the act of clearing space—whether in our homes, our calendars, or our hearts. When my wife and I began removing the clutter from our lives, we expected to free up physical space. What we didn’t anticipate was the blessing of time, clarity, and connection that followed. With fewer distractions, we discovered that we now had room for what truly matters.

Each morning and evening, we now set aside time for prayer, devotionals, and reading Scripture together. We go out as a couple to simply enjoy one another’s presence over something as simple as ice cream and heartfelt conversation. These moments are not extravagant—they are eternal. They are where peace resides and where God speaks most clearly.

We even made the decision to cancel our cable, replacing hours of idle entertainment with worship music and hymns that now fill our home with peace and reverence. Our conversations have become richer. Our focus has shifted from the noise of the world to the presence of God. In doing so, we found ourselves not only honoring the first pillar—keeping God at the center—but also drawing closer as a couple, embracing the second pillar—the importance of family.

Dear reader, I urge you today to ask the Lord, “What can I clear out to make more room for You?” Then take one small step to simplify. It might just open the door to something far more meaningful than you ever imagined.

In Christ’s gentle leading,
Brother Jesse
Co-founder & Sr. Chaplain
SFIHG Ministries

Mid-Week Message - What Would You Have Done?

“Why are you looking among the dead for someone who is alive? He isn’t here! He is risen from the dead! Remember what he told you back in Galilee, that the Son of Man must be betrayed into the hands of sinful men and be crucified, and that he would rise again on the third day.”  Luke 24:5-7 (NLT)

If you had been there when Jesus was arrested, what would you have done?  How would you have reacted?  Would you have stepped up to defend Him or would you have sunk into the background out of fear?  

If you had been there during His trial, would you have spoken up for Him?  Would you have shouted for His innocence or been silent as the crowd screamed for Barrabas to be released?  Would your belief that Jesus was the Christ have allowed you to rush to His aid?  

If you had been there as He was forced to carry His cross to the place of His death, would you have offered to help Him carry it or stood back in horror and tears as you witnessed His struggle while so terribly wounded?

If you had been there as the hammer pounded the nails into His flesh, seen the crown of thorns pushed cruelly down into the skin of His brow, seen the mocking and the insults hurled at Him, seen Him denied a fresh drink of water and then witnessed the spear thrust into His side, how would you have handled it?  

The Easter story is one most of us grew up with.  We know what happened to our Savior.  It has become something that is talked about almost matter-of-factly.  We understand it was God's way of uniting us to Himself by providing His Son, His perfect Lamb, as the sacrifice which bought our forgiveness and freedom.  We know, but do we experience it?  Is it personal?  

Now, what if you had been there with the women who discovered His body missing?  What would have been your reaction?  Would you have remembered that He said He would rise again and rejoice, or would you have assumed it had been stolen?  I can't think of anything more glorious than the open tomb of the Son of Almighty God.  I would like to think that I would have fallen to my knees at that moment and begun praising.  But I would also like to think that I would have stood up for Him, fought for Him, been willing to lose my own life for Him.  

Easter is a time of personal reflection as we remember all He did out of His love for each of us.  It is wonderful to know the story, to read the scriptures, to hear the sermons.  However, in order to really appreciate it, we need to place ourselves there.  We need to take part and allow it to become more than a story.  We need for it to be personal and real.  May God bless you as you experience His love on Easter and every day.  

From the Heart of Brother Jesse – Tuesday, April 8, 2025 – Escaping the Hamster Wheel

Dear Brothers and Sisters,

Have you ever found yourself in a cycle that feels endless—chasing more, striving harder, and praying for increase, yet never feeling satisfied? My wife and I know that experience well. There was a time when we found ourselves on that very treadmill, praying for better jobs, for higher income, and for more resources—not out of greed, but out of a desire to meet our needs and improve our lives. But with each blessing came the desire for more, and before long, we realized that our prayers, though sincere, were being offered in a cycle of pursuit that never paused to ask, “Have we been good stewards of what we already have?”

The truth was sobering. We were not. We had overlooked the abundance God had already provided and had failed to acknowledge the waste that accompanied our endless striving. It was only when we stopped running and started listening that we understood: the answer wasn’t in receiving more—it was in using better what we had been given.

Beloved, this world will always urge you to accumulate more, to upgrade, to want. But God invites you to rest, to trust, and to simplify. He does not measure your life by what you possess, but by how you honor Him with what you have.

Today, take a moment to step off the hamster wheel and into His presence. Let your prayers be filled with thanksgiving, and let your heart be content in the sufficiency of Christ.

In the grace of simplicity,
Brother Jesse
Co-founder & Sr. Chaplain
SFIHG Ministries

From the Heart of Brother Jesse – Monday, April 7, 2025 – Letting Go for God

Dear Friends in Christ,

As we begin this new week, I invite you to reflect on a question that lies at the very heart of spiritual simplicity: What do I need to let go of so that I may draw closer to God? In yesterday’s message, I shared how my wife and I began a process of removing clutter from our lives—both physical and spiritual. We discovered many items that had long been forgotten, stored away after meeting only a temporary need. In truth, they served no purpose any longer, except to take up space—space that could have been used more purposefully.

We were moved to donate these things to Goodwill, not because we sought to unburden our shelves, but because the Lord impressed upon our hearts the joy of stewardship—that others might be blessed by what no longer served us. Through that act, something shifted. It became clear that letting go physically was opening the door to something greater spiritually.

 
As you begin this week, I encourage you to ask the Lord to show you what you may be holding onto—possessions, habits, worries, or even burdens—that are hindering your walk with Him. Simplification is not an act of loss; it is a sacred act of trust. When we let go, we make room for peace, clarity, and the deeper presence of God.       

With a heart set on Christ,
Brother Jesse
Co-founder & Sr. Chaplain
SFIHG Ministries

The Simplification of Life

As we continue our journey through the “Four Pillars of a God-Centered Life,” we now turn to a pillar that challenges both our hearts and habits—the simplification of life. In previous messages, we reflected on the necessity of keeping God as our central focus and the sacred responsibility of nurturing our families. Today, we consider how the condition of our spiritual lives is often reflected in the condition of our physical and emotional surroundings. A cluttered life—whether filled with possessions, noise, or obligations—can cloud our vision and pull us away from the peace God longs to give.

Over the past two weeks, my wife and I undertook the task of decluttering our home. It began as a practical effort but soon became a spiritual exercise. We uncovered items stored for years—things that once met temporary needs but had since sat unused, benefiting no one. As we sorted and reflected, the Lord laid it on our hearts to donate these items to Goodwill so that others might be blessed through what we no longer needed. It was a humbling revelation to see how many things we had accumulated in moments of convenience or want, only to forget them with time. This process opened our eyes to the deeper truth: we often carry more than we need, and much of it hinders us from drawing closer to God.

Simplifying life is not about living with less for the sake of minimalism. It is about living with purpose, with focus, and with a heart set on what truly matters. As we explore this third pillar, let us ask the Lord to show us what needs to be released—not just from our closets or calendars, but from our hearts—so that we may walk more freely and faithfully in His presence.

The world around us often celebrates excess—more accomplishments, more possessions, more connections, more noise. Yet Scripture calls us to something far more enduring and life-giving: simplicity rooted in godly contentment. This is not about denying ourselves joy or comfort, but about aligning our lives with the gentle rhythm of God’s design. Simplicity is not merely a lifestyle choice; it is a spiritual discipline—a deliberate act of surrender that says, “Lord, I need You more than anything else.”

The wise words of Proverbs 15:16 speak directly to this truth: “Better is a little with the fear of the Lord than great treasure and trouble with it.” In other words, a life marked by humble reverence for God, even if lacking in material abundance, is far richer than a life burdened by the anxiety and distraction that often accompany earthly gain. In Ecclesiastes 4:6, we read, “Better one handful with tranquility than two handfuls with toil and chasing after the wind.” These verses point us to the heart of simplicity—not just having less, but embracing what matters most.

In its truest form, simplicity draws us nearer to the Lord. It clears away what is unnecessary so that we may hear His voice more clearly. It opens space in our hearts and schedules for prayer, reflection, and worship. It loosens our grip on what is passing so we can take hold of what is eternal. Simplicity is not loss—it is gain in its purest and most liberating form.

A cluttered life is not merely an overfilled closet or an overcrowded schedule—it is often a reflection of a restless heart. When we seek fulfillment in possessions, accomplishments, or constant activity, we unknowingly distance ourselves from the stillness where God speaks most clearly. Clutter is not just physical; it can be emotional, mental, and spiritual. It distracts, divides, and dilutes our devotion.

There was a season in my life when my wife and I found ourselves caught in what I now recognize as a spiritual hamster wheel. We prayed earnestly for better jobs, for more income, and for greater provision. But those prayers, though sincerely offered, were often rooted in a desire to acquire more—to purchase what we didn’t truly need, to fill our home and our lives with things that only served us for a season. We asked for more, only to find ourselves praying again for even more. It became an endless cycle, and in time, the Lord graciously revealed the truth to us: we were not being good stewards of what we already had.

We had received blessings, but we had not always honored the Giver. We had wasted much while asking for increase. We had pursued abundance while neglecting contentment. In hindsight, we see how this pursuit weighed down our lives and crowded out our sense of peace. It was only when we began to let go—both physically and spiritually—that we discovered what true freedom and simplicity in Christ really meant.

The Lord does not oppose provision or growth. But when our desires outrun our gratitude, and our prayers become demands rather than petitions, we lose sight of the Giver and focus only on the gifts. Jesus Himself warned us of the “deceitfulness of riches and the cares of this world” (Mark 4:19), which can choke out the Word and render our spiritual soil unfruitful. The danger of a cluttered life is not just the mess—it is the missed opportunity to abide in the presence and sufficiency of our Savior.

At the heart of simplification lies a question every believer must ask: What truly matters? Not what appears urgent, impressive, or comfortable—but what holds eternal value? In a world that constantly demands our attention and encourages endless accumulation, we must return to the quiet wisdom of God’s Word, which calls us to walk humbly, live purposefully, and treasure what draws us nearer to Him.

True simplicity is not about poverty or deprivation—it is about prioritization. It is about placing eternal things above temporary ones. Jesus gently yet firmly instructed Martha in Luke 10:41–42, “Martha, Martha, you are worried and upset about many things, but few things are needed—or indeed only one. Mary has chosen what is better...” Mary sat at the feet of Jesus, while Martha was caught up in the busyness of service. Both were doing something good, but only one chose what mattered most in that moment: being with the Lord.

When we simplify our lives, we make space for worship. We clear out the noise to hear God’s voice. We relinquish our grip on the temporal to embrace the eternal. This means evaluating every area—our time, our finances, our possessions, our relationships—and asking: Does this draw me closer to Christ or pull me away from Him?

For my wife and me, this process began with sorting through physical items, but it quickly led to deeper spiritual inventory. As we made space externally, we found clarity internally. We discovered we had more time—time to focus on the things that truly matter. We began setting aside intentional moments in the morning and evening to pray, read devotionals, and share in the Word of God together. We also found joy in simple, meaningful experiences—like going out for ice cream and simply sitting together in conversation. These moments, small as they may seem, have become sacred, drawing us closer to one another and to the Lord.

We made the decision to cancel our cable service, recognizing that hours once lost to television could now be redeemed through worship and connection. In its place, we began playing worship music and hymns—sounds that now fill our home with peace and keep our hearts aligned with the first pillar: keeping God at the center. Our conversations, enriched by this spiritual environment, have also deepened our relationship as a couple, drawing us back to the second pillar: the importance of family.

By simplifying, we have not lost—we have gained. We have reclaimed time, space, and attention for what matters most: God, one another, and the purpose to which He has called us.

As we bring this message to a close, we now look ahead to the fourth and final pillar in this spiritual framework: Being Healthy to Serve God. Just as simplicity clears the path for greater focus and fellowship, so too does it open the door to intentional stewardship of our physical and emotional well-being. When our lives are free from unnecessary burdens and distractions, we are better positioned to care for the bodies God has given us—not for vanity, but for vitality in service to Him.

Health—physical, mental, and spiritual—is often overlooked in discussions of discipleship, yet it plays a vital role in fulfilling our calling. When we are fatigued, overextended, or physically unwell due to poor habits or neglect, our ability to serve with strength and joy is diminished. Simplifying our lives gives us the margin to rest, reflect, and make healthier choices—not only for ourselves, but for the people God has called us to love and serve.

As we prepare to explore this final pillar, I encourage you to prayerfully consider how the three we have already discussed—focusing on God, strengthening family, and simplifying life—all contribute to a life that is ready and able to serve the Lord with energy, clarity, and devotion.

Beloved, I invite you now to pause and reflect: What in your life is weighing you down or pulling you away from the presence of God? Are there habits, possessions, obligations, or distractions that consume your time, your energy, or your peace? The Lord is not calling you to a life of constant accumulation, but to a life of purpose, freedom, and fellowship with Him. Simplifying is not about deprivation—it is about devotion. It is a spiritual act of faith that says, “Lord, I trust You to be my portion and my provider.”

I encourage you this week to prayerfully examine one area of your life where the Lord may be calling you to let go. It may be something physical, like a possession you’ve been holding onto unnecessarily. It may be something mental or emotional, such as a worry, a pressure, or an unhealthy commitment that burdens your spirit. Release it into God’s hands and ask Him to fill that space with His peace and presence.

Start small but start intentionally. Choose one step—perhaps setting aside time for evening prayer, turning off the television to read Scripture, or reconnecting with a loved one through undistracted conversation. Let that simple act become an open door through which the Lord may pour out His wisdom, peace, and joy.

Do not be afraid to live with less if it means living with more of Christ.

As we conclude this message on the simplification of life, let us take heart in the still, reassuring voice of our Heavenly Father, who gently calls us to lay down the heavy and unnecessary burdens we have picked up along the way. In Psalm 46:10, we are commanded with loving clarity: “Be still, and know that I am God.” In the stillness, in the letting go, in the quieted heart—there we rediscover the wonder of His presence.

Let us not fear simplicity, but embrace it as a sacred invitation to walk more closely with our Creator. Let us choose what is better, as Mary did, and sit at the feet of our Savior, unburdened by the many distractions of the world. May your home, your schedule, your mind, and your soul find peace in the presence of the Lord.

May the Lord strengthen your faith and use it for His glory, as you walk humbly in His presence.

📣 Ministry Announcement: “The Simplification of Life” – This Sunday at Noon (ET)

Dear Friends in Christ,

Please join me this Sunday, April 6, 2025, at Noon (ET), as we continue our series on the Four Pillars of a God-Centered Life. This week’s message is titled:

“The Simplification of Life”

In a world filled with noise, demands, and endless distractions, we often find ourselves burdened—not only in body but also in spirit. This message will explore how the practice of simplification, guided by Scripture, can bring us back to a place of peace, focus, and deeper communion with God. Simplifying life is not about having less—it’s about making more room for what truly matters.

I will also share how my wife and I personally experienced the spiritual blessing of letting go, donating unused possessions, and discovering renewed time for prayer, Scripture reading, and fellowship. This isn’t just about decluttering—it’s about discipleship.

📖 Key Verse: “Better is a little with the fear of the Lord than great treasure and trouble with it.” – Proverbs 15:16

This message is one that speaks to the heart of stewardship, peace, and spiritual clarity. I encourage you to listen, reflect, and share this with others who may feel overwhelmed by the pace and pressure of modern life.

In His service,
Brother Jesse
Co-founder & Sr. Chaplain
SFIHG Ministries

From the Heart of Brother Jesse – Friday, April 4, 2025 – A Legacy of Faith

Dear Beloved Friends,

As we conclude this week’s reflections on the importance of family, I am drawn to one final, enduring truth: the legacy we leave within our families is one of the most powerful testimonies we will ever offer. Long after our voices are silenced and our footsteps stilled, the example of our faith can continue to echo through generations.

Scripture reminds us in Proverbs 13:22 that “a good man leaves an inheritance to his children's children.” While this certainly speaks of provision, it also speaks of something far more valuable—spiritual inheritance. What we teach our children today, the prayers we lift on their behalf, the way we model forgiveness, perseverance, and devotion to Christ—these become seeds of eternal impact.

You do not need to be perfect to leave a godly legacy. You only need to be faithful. Be faithful in loving your family, in guiding them gently to the Lord, and in living a life that reflects the light of Christ. Let your children and grandchildren say of you, “They walked with God.”

Whether your family is one of strong bonds or brokenness, know this: the Lord can use your faith to change your family’s future. Never underestimate the power of your example or the lasting effect of your prayers.

Walk forward in hope and with purpose, knowing that what you build in faith today will bless those who come after you.

In Christ’s abiding love,
Brother Jesse
Co-founder & Sr. Chaplain
SFIHG Ministries

From the Heart of Brother Jesse – Thursday, April 3, 2025 – Restoring the Family Altar

Dear Faithful Servants of Christ,

There was a time when the phrase “the family altar” was widely understood. It spoke of a daily gathering in the home—a time of prayer, Scripture reading, and the lifting of hearts unto the Lord. In many households today, this sacred practice has grown faint, overtaken by busy schedules, digital distractions, and the fading of spiritual priority within the home.

Yet now is the time to restore the family altar.

In Joshua 24:15, the declaration still echoes through the generations: “As for me and my house, we will serve the Lord.” This is not merely a sentiment—it is a spiritual stand. It is a call to make Christ the center of our home life, not just our church life.

Restoring the family altar does not require elaborate rituals or theological expertise. It simply begins with intention. Set aside a time each day—be it morning or evening—to gather as a family, read a portion of God’s Word, and pray together. Ask one another about your walk with the Lord. Speak blessings over one another. Invite God into your conversations, your meals, your routines.

The presence of God will fill the home where He is regularly welcomed and sincerely honored. Make your dwelling a place where peace resides, grace abounds, and Christ reigns.

In devotion and love,
Brother Jesse
Co-founder & Sr. Chaplain
SFIHG Ministries

From the Heart of Brother Jesse – Wednesday, April 2, 2025 – Healing the Wounds Within the Family

Dear Brothers and Sisters,

It is a truth we often carry silently: some of the deepest wounds we experience come not from strangers, but from those within our own families. Harsh words, unmet expectations, betrayals, and absence can leave scars that we try to cover but never truly forget. Yet even in this pain, there is hope—for God is the Healer of broken hearts and broken homes.

In Colossians 3:13, we are instructed, “Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you.” These words are not always easy to follow, especially when the hurt runs deep. But they are necessary if we are to experience the peace and unity God desires for our families.

Forgiveness is not about forgetting the offense or pretending it never happened. It is about releasing the burden of bitterness and allowing God to bring restoration. Sometimes that healing comes through conversation. Other times, it begins with prayer and time. But it must begin—with you, with me, with all who seek to walk in obedience to Christ.

If your family bears wounds, ask God today to soften hearts, to open the door for reconciliation, and to bring His healing presence into every relationship. What is impossible for man is always possible with God.

In grace and truth,
Brother Jesse
Co-founder & Sr. Chaplain
SFIHG Ministries

Mid-Week Message - About Death

"The day one dies is better than the day he is born!  It is better to spend your time at funerals than at festivals.  For you are going to die, and it is a good thing to think about it while there is still time.  Sorrow is better than laughter, for sadness has a refining influence on us.  Yes, a wise man thinks much of death, while the fool thinks only of having a good time now."  Ecclesiastes 7:1b-4  (TLB)

A while ago I was reminded again of the brevity of life.  A dear sweet young friend passed away.  This was a young lady who had fought a lifetime of battles that most of us will never be able to conceive of.  Her life was filled with miracle after miracle and she was a living testament of the power and love of Almighty God.  I rejoice for her as she celebrates with Jesus though my heart is broken for her family and others close to her.  

When my father died in 2007 I thought I wasn't going to be able to go on.  He had been my greatest supporter throughout my life.  He was the one I turned to for advice and understanding.  He wasn't a perfect man, but the Lord couldn't have chosen a better man to be my dad.  I can remember every second of that day and I doubt seriously that I will ever forget.  His death deeply impacted me and changed the way I thought of life.  The person I counted on to always be there suddenly wasn't and I found myself considering the difference of how death is viewed on earth versus how it is viewed in Heaven.

When someone dear to us is no longer with us on this planet, it can be devastating.  We find ourselves clinging to their last words, their favorite material possessions, songs that remind us of them and anything else that makes us feel close to them.  The last thing we want to think about is that we won't see them again.  As we go through the stages of grief we experience denial and anger long before we reach acceptance.  We cry more tears than we thought possible and beg the Lord to explain to us why they had to go.  The pain of losing a loved one causes our hearts to physically ache and our minds to question life.  

However, what is perceived as an ending here is a homecoming in Heaven.  No longer is there any separation between our loved ones and Jesus. It is the culmination of our creation!  We see life as temporary, but our Creator made us to be eternal beings.  Life doesn't end at death.  It continues where we were meant to be all along.  In Heaven we will be free from illness, from sorrow and from danger.  Joy will rule our hearts as we witness in person the magnificence of the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit.  We will join with the Heavenly choir in singing praises.  Any infirmities that we had before will be gone forever and we will be able to place our hand in the hand of the One who bore the penalties for our sin and made it all possible.  

Here we grieve but there they celebrate.  That is why today's verse admonishes us to ponder the end of our earthly lives.  For those that place their faith in the Lord Jesus death is simply the closing of one door and the opening of a much better one.  Life doesn't cease, it is perfected.  Our grief is for ourselves because we will miss those who go to Heaven before us.  One day, though, not too long in the future, that door will open for us as well and we will step across the Heaven's threshold and wrap our arms around our Savior.