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Sunday, August 10, 2025

📬 From Brother Jesse – Sunday, August 10, 2025 – A Ministry That Carries Burdens

Dear friends,

As today’s message, “Lay It Down: Trusting the Lord with Your Burdens,” is published on our ministry website, I want to speak to your heart about the importance of this work. Every message, every prayer, and every letter is created with care to encourage weary souls and remind them that they are not alone.

At SFIHG Ministries, we do not charge for God's Word. We have no books for sale, no subscription fees—just open arms and open hearts. But to continue carrying the burdens of others through online ministry, we humbly depend on the generosity of those who believe in what we do.

Would you consider making a donation today? For the cost of a premium cup of coffee, you can help someone discover hope, peace, and God’s unfailing love. Simply click the "Donate" button on our website, powered through Buy Me a Coffee.

Thank you for helping us carry the burdens of many through the message of Christ.

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

✟ Lay It Down: Trusting the Lord with Your Burdens

There is a weight that so many carry each day—one not always visible to the eye, but felt deeply in the soul. Worry. Fear. Anxiety. These burdens come in many forms: the uncertainty of finances, the strain of health challenges, the heartbreak of broken relationships, the unknown of tomorrow. Though our shoulders may not sag outwardly, our spirits often do. Worry wraps around the heart like a heavy chain, robbing us of joy, disrupting our peace, and diverting our focus away from God.

But in this one powerful verse, Psalm 55:22, God offers a divine alternative. He beckons us not to shoulder our burdens alone but to lay them down at His feet. This sacred invitation comes with a promise: not only will He take care of us, but He will also ensure that those who walk with Him are upheld.

Let us look closely at the first part of the verse: “Give your burdens to the Lord…” This is not merely a kind suggestion—it is a clear command. The Hebrew word used here implies casting, as if one were hurling a heavy load off their back. It means to relinquish full control, to surrender what weighs us down and place it into God’s hands.

Too often we attempt to carry life’s trials ourselves. We think we are being strong or responsible, but the truth is, we are exhausting ourselves. When we refuse to release our burdens to the Lord, we are choosing to rely on our limited strength instead of God’s unlimited grace.

Jesus extended the same call in Matthew 11:28–30 (NLT):

“Come to me, all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you. Let me teach you, because I am humble and gentle at heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy to bear, and the burden I give you is light.”

There is rest in His presence. Peace in His promise. Strength in His sufficiency.

God doesn’t leave us burdened once we surrender. His Word says clearly: “…and He will take care of you.” This is divine reassurance. The Lord does not simply receive your worries—He lovingly manages them. He tends to your needs. He provides in His timing. He sees the whole picture of your life when you only see today.

Peter echoes this truth in 1 Peter 5:7 (NLT):

“Give all your worries and cares to God, for he cares about you.”

This care is not passive—it is deeply personal and actively involved. Our Heavenly Father is not distant or disengaged. He is intimately concerned with every detail of our lives. When we hand Him our burdens, He handles them with the wisdom of eternity and the compassion of a loving parent.

I remember countless times in my own life when the load felt unbearable. Moments when my heart cried out under the pressure of uncertainty and sorrow. But each time I laid those concerns at the feet of my Lord, I found the peace that surpasses all understanding. Not always immediate answers—but always divine care.

The final part of the verse gives us this great assurance: “He will not permit the godly to slip and fall.” This does not suggest that believers will never experience hardship. Rather, it promises that those who are devoted to God—those who walk in righteousness—will be upheld by His hand.

Psalm 37:23–24 (NLT) affirms this:

“The Lord directs the steps of the godly. He delights in every detail of their lives. Though they stumble, they will never fall, for the Lord holds them by the hand.”

There will be times when we feel shaky. Times when the path is slippery and the hill is steep. But the Lord is our firm foundation. He will not allow us to be overcome. He will steady our feet, lift us up, and walk with us every step of the way.

Dear friends, you do not have to live burdened. You do not have to be crushed by anxiety, fear, or sorrow. The Lord is extending His hand and asking you to lay it down—to surrender every weight, every care, and every worry. You were never meant to carry it alone.

This very day, make the choice to release it all to the Lord. Cry out to Him in prayer. Write your burdens down and speak them aloud to God. Unload your heart into the loving arms of the Savior. He is strong enough to carry you, and kind enough to care for every concern.

As you entrust your burdens to the Lord, I encourage you to also look around you. There are many who are silently suffering—your neighbors, co-workers, even your family members. Share this message with them. Offer a prayer. Be a listening ear. Let them know that there is a Savior who can lift the heaviest load.

And please consider making a donation to your local food pantry or ministry that serves those in need. In times of hardship, we must not only speak of God's love—we must live it out in practical ways. As Jesus said in Matthew 25:45 (NLT):

“I tell you the truth, when you refused to help the least of these my brothers and sisters, you were refusing to help me.”

So, I say to you, “May the Lord strengthen your faith and use it for His glory, as you walk humbly in His presence.”

Saturday, August 9, 2025

📣 Announcement for Sunday’s Message – August 10, 2025

Dear friends,

So many of us walk through life carrying burdens too heavy for our hearts to bear—worries about finances, health, relationships, and the uncertainty of tomorrow. But Scripture offers us a lifeline of peace in Psalm 55:22:

“Give your burdens to the Lord, and he will take care of you. He will not permit the godly to slip and fall.”

Tomorrow’s message, “Lay It Down: Trusting the Lord with Your Burdens,” will remind us that we are not alone in our struggles. God calls us to surrender our worries and rest in His faithful care. If you've ever felt weighed down, this message is especially for you—or someone you know.

📬 Please share this important message with family and friends.

💻 Visit sfihgministries.org tomorrow at 12 PM ET to read and reflect on the truth of God's sustaining love.

🙏 Let us come together as a community of faith to lay our burdens before the Lord.

No matter what you're facing, you do not have to carry it alone. Join us in faith and in fellowship.

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

Friday, August 8, 2025

❤️ From the Heart of Brother Jesse – Friday, August 8, 2025 - “Mercy That Walks Beside”

Dear Faithful Friends,

The journey of a believer is not one of isolation, but of fellowship. We are called to walk beside one another—not ahead in pride, not behind in judgment—but shoulder to shoulder, in mercy and love.

This week’s message from Colossians reminds us of who we are and how we are to live. We are not to be cloaked in cold religiosity. We are to be clothed in Christ Himself—in His compassion, His kindness, His humility, His gentleness, and His patience.

Restoration is not a one-time act; it is a lifestyle of mercy. And that mercy is not stationary—it moves. It walks beside the fallen, it lifts up the weary, it rejoices with the restored. It is the kind of mercy that Jesus showed when He knelt beside the woman caught in adultery. He did not condemn her. He covered her. He restored her.

Let us resolve, then, to be people who walk with mercy beside those who struggle. Let our ministry not be one of distance, but of nearness. Let us never forget how close Christ drew to us when we were at our lowest.

May our footsteps echo grace. May our paths be paved with peace. And may every soul we meet feel the love of Christ radiating through us.

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

Thursday, August 7, 2025

📬 From Brother Jesse – Thursday, August 7, 2025 - “Let Us Be the Church That Gives”

Dear Beloved in Christ,

As I reflect on this week’s message and letters, I feel led to share this simple truth: We are never more like Christ than when we give. He gave everything—His time, His tears, His body, His life. And He calls us to do likewise.

SFIHG Ministries has no products, no advertisements, and no paywalls. We don’t charge for the Word of God because we believe it should flow freely into the hearts of all who hunger for truth and healing.

If this ministry has blessed you—or if you believe in the work of compassion, restoration, and biblical teaching—we humbly ask for your support. Your donation enables us to continue sharing the message of grace, week after week.

Clicking the “Donate” button on our website takes you to our Buy Me a Coffee page. It’s simple, secure, and impactful. For the price of a coffee, you help someone experience the compassion of Christ.

Let us be the Church that gives—not only words, but action. Not only prayers, but provision.

With a servant’s heart,
Brother Jesse
Co-founder & Sr. Chaplain
SFIHG Ministries

❤️ From the Heart of Brother Jesse – Thursday, August 7, 2025 - “Let Peace Be the Ruler”

Dear Family in Christ,

There is a holy stillness that comes when we let go of our need to control and allow the peace of Christ to truly reign within our hearts. Paul wrote, “And let the peace that comes from Christ rule in your hearts. For as members of one body you are called to live in peace. And always be thankful” (Colossians 3:15, NLT).

That word “rule” speaks volumes to me. Peace must not merely reside in us; it must govern us. It must be the guiding voice in moments of conflict, the calming hand in times of distress, and the decision-maker when pride would urge us toward division.

Too often, peace is sacrificed on the altar of self-importance. Harsh words are spoken. Relationships are severed. Bridges are burned. And over what? A bruised ego? A misunderstood word? A sin we once committed ourselves?

Peace cannot reign where thankfulness is absent. When we remember how much we’ve been forgiven—how far we’ve been brought by grace—we grow thankful. And that thankfulness ushers in peace.

Today, I encourage you to let Christ’s peace rule in your heart. Don’t fight it. Don’t stifle it. Let it guide you into unity with those around you. Be a peacemaker. Be thankful.

In the peace of Christ,
Brother Jesse
Co-founder & Sr. Chaplain
SFIHG Ministries

Wednesday, August 6, 2025

❤️ From the Heart of Brother Jesse – Wednesday, August 6, 2025 - “Wearing the Right Garments”

Dear Friends in Faith,

Every morning we make a decision about what to wear. We select our clothing, prepare ourselves to face the day, and present ourselves to the world. But how often do we consider what we are wearing spiritually?
Paul tells us, “Above all, clothe yourselves with love, which binds us all together in perfect harmony” (Colossians 3:14, NLT). Love is not just an added accessory—it is the central thread that holds together all the garments of mercy, humility, and patience.

It grieves me to see how many in the church dress in the garments of arrogance, superiority, and coldness. They judge from a distance and rarely extend a hand. But the love that Paul speaks of is not distant. It draws near. It binds. It heals.

We must be deliberate about the spiritual wardrobe we put on each day. Love is the only garment that never goes out of season. It’s what the world longs to see in us. It’s what brings harmony where there is division, unity where there is pride, and healing where there is hurt.

As you rise tomorrow, remember that what you wear spiritually will matter far more than what you wear physically. Wrap yourself in love—and let the world see Christ in you.

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

Tuesday, August 5, 2025

📬 From Brother Jesse – Tuesday, August 5, 2025 - “Helping the Wounded Find Grace”

Dear Ministry Friends,

Each day, I receive messages from those who feel wounded—by the world, by the church, and sometimes even by fellow believers. They are searching for restoration, for belonging, for a place where they can be met with grace, not judgment.

That’s why SFIHG Ministries exists. We are here to remind the fallen that Christ is not done with them. We are here to be a gentle hand, not a pointed finger.

But we cannot continue this work alone. Your generosity allows us to reach thousands of readers each week with Bible-based teaching, daily prayers, and uplifting messages—all freely accessible to anyone, anywhere.

Will you prayerfully consider supporting us today? A one-time or recurring gift—no matter how small—helps us keep serving. Your kindness covers the cost of hosting, publishing, and growing our outreach to those who need the healing presence of Christ.

Simply use the “Donate” button to give through our Buy Me a Coffee link. Together, we are helping the wounded find grace.

With love and gratitude,
Brother Jesse
Co-founder & Sr. Chaplain
SFIHG Ministries

❤️ From the Heart of Brother Jesse – Tuesday, August 5, 2025 - “The Quiet Work of Restoration”

Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,

It is easy to forget that some of the most powerful ministry we do never takes place behind a pulpit or in front of a crowd—it takes place in quiet conversations, over tear-stained shoulders, and in whispered prayers shared between trembling hands.

The Apostle Paul wrote, “Make allowance for each other’s faults, and forgive anyone who offends you. Remember, the Lord forgave you, so you must forgive others” (Colossians 3:13, NLT). That verse humbles me. Not because I don’t know it by heart, but because living it out requires me to empty myself of pride every single day.

Forgiveness is not a moment. It is a movement of the heart. And restoration is not loud or showy—it is often quiet, private, and persistent. It may be a text message to someone who stopped coming to church. It might be a visit to someone who feels ashamed and unseen. It might even be a heartfelt apology to someone we’ve wronged.

We are not called to be spiritual inspectors, pointing out every flaw. We are called to be spiritual encouragers, guiding others gently toward the healing grace of our Savior. If we truly believe that Christ forgave us, then we must also become the ministers of that same forgiveness to those who have fallen.

May our lives be marked by quiet restoration—not judgmental declarations.

With grace and gentleness,
Brother Jesse
Co-founder & Sr. Chaplain

Monday, August 4, 2025

❤️ From the Heart of Brother Jesse – Monday, August 4, 2025 - “When Grace Wears Flesh”

Dear Beloved Friends,

As I sit and reflect upon yesterday’s message from Colossians 3:12–15, my heart is stirred with both conviction and gratitude. Conviction—because I know there have been moments when I have failed to clothe myself with compassion. Gratitude—because our Lord continues to wrap me in His grace and gently guides me back to the narrow path.

In that passage, Paul speaks with tender clarity: “Since God chose you to be the holy people he loves, you must clothe yourselves with tenderhearted mercy...” He does not say, “you should consider,” or “you might want to”—he says, “you must.” The command is as clear as it is beautiful.

We are the living garments of grace that others see. Our words, our responses, our actions—they either reflect the compassion of Christ or the condemnation of a world that knows not love. I cannot help but think of the many souls I’ve met who once believed, who once worshiped, but who now walk far from the fold because a judgmental word stung deeper than the sin they committed.

My friend, the church must never become a courtroom. It must remain a hospital. And we, the redeemed, must serve not as judges but as nurses—gently tending wounds, lovingly aiding recovery, humbly remembering that we were once wounded too.

Let us strive to be the evidence of God’s mercy that someone needs to see this week. Let your grace wear flesh. Let it speak in your tone, shine in your smile, and flow from your hands.

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

Sunday, August 3, 2025

📬 From Brother Jesse – Sunday, August 3, 2025 - “Restoring with Love, Sustaining with Faith”

Dear Friends and Faithful Supporters,

As today’s message, “Clothed in Compassion: Restoring, Not Condemning,” goes live, I am reminded of the sacred duty we all share: to restore, to encourage, and to love—just as Christ has done for each of us.

This ministry exists to shine the light of God’s mercy into the darkest corners of life. We offer hope without charge, encouragement without condition, and the Gospel without cost. We do not sell books. We do not require subscriptions. We simply give—and we do so because of your faithful giving.

Would you consider making a small donation today? Even the cost of a premium coffee—just a few dollars—goes a long way toward helping us reach the hurting, the doubting, the wandering. When you give, you clothe someone in hope. You bind someone’s wounds. You become a living extension of God’s grace.

Please click the “Donate” button on our website, which links to our Buy Me a Coffee page. Let us continue this mission together—restoring souls with love, and sustaining this work through faith.

With deepest appreciation,
Brother Jesse
Co-founder & Sr. Chaplain
SFIHG Ministries

✟ Clothed in Compassion: Restoring, Not Condemning

As followers of Christ, we are not called to mimic the world’s harshness, bitterness, or divisiveness. We are called to something higher, something nobler. The Apostle Paul reminds us of our sacred identity when he writes, “Since God chose you to be the holy people he loves, you must clothe yourselves with tenderhearted mercy, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience” (Colossians 3:12, NLT). These words are not merely an invitation—they are a divine summons to a lifestyle that reflects the heart of our Savior.

Being chosen by God does not elevate us above others; rather, it binds us to a holy responsibility. We are not called to boast in our standing but to serve in humility. Yet in today’s world, it is a grievous truth that many who claim the name of Christ do not walk in the virtues Paul outlines. Instead of mercy, there is meanness. Instead of kindness, cold judgment. Instead of humility, pride. Instead of gentleness, harshness. Instead of patience, condemnation.

Too many wield religion as a sword to wound rather than as a balm to heal. Their actions drive the broken away from the church, when the church ought to be a sanctuary for the weary and a refuge for the fallen. But Paul’s exhortation is clear—we must clothe ourselves not in superiority, but in sanctified compassion.

Our lives, then, must be adorned daily with the spiritual garments of Christ. These are not optional accessories, but essential vestments for anyone who professes faith in Him. Let this verse be a mirror and a map—a reflection of who we are and a direction toward who we are called to be.

Let us take a moment to reflect more deeply on the attire of grace that Paul outlines in verse 12. These are not mere personality traits—they are manifestations of a transformed heart:
  • Tenderhearted mercy speaks of a compassionate soul moved by the sufferings of others. It compels us to lift up rather than tear down.
  • Kindness and humility walk hand in hand, reminding us that every person is made in the image of God and deserving of dignity—not condescension.
  • Gentleness and patience guide us to endure offenses with grace and to correct others without arrogance.
The Apostle Paul calls us to clothe ourselves with these virtues. Much like we dress our physical bodies each morning, we are to clothe our spirits with these divine qualities, presenting ourselves not as judges, but as servants of grace.

Romans 3:23 serves as a sobering reminder: “For everyone has sinned; we all fall short of God’s glorious standard.” If we all fall short, then who among us has the right to sit in judgment over another? We must cast off the garments of pride and self-righteousness, and instead wear the humility of Christ, who washed the feet of His disciples.

Paul continues, “Make allowance for each other’s faults, and forgive anyone who offends you. Remember, the Lord forgave you, so you must forgive others” (Colossians 3:13, NLT). These words are not a suggestion, but a command rooted in the example of our Savior.

The measure of a believer is not how well they speak of grace, but how generously they extend it. Forgiveness is the outflow of a heart touched by divine mercy. To withhold it is to forget what has been done for us on the cross.

I have witnessed individuals leave churches in tears, not because of the convicting power of the Word, but because of the condemning spirit of the congregation. Their faults were magnified, their struggles broadcast, and their hearts left wounded rather than restored. But Paul calls us to make allowance for one another—to recognize that spiritual growth is a process and that we are each on a journey.

Christ's forgiveness was not earned; it was given. And if we have received it so freely, then we are called to give it freely in return.

Paul elevates the conversation in verse 14: “Above all, clothe yourselves with love, which binds us all together in perfect harmony.” Love is the ultimate garment, the crowning piece of our spiritual wardrobe. Without it, all other virtues fall apart.

Love does not expose weaknesses—it covers them (1 Peter 4:8). Love does not puff itself up—it humbles itself. Love does not cast out—it draws near.

The Church should be known for its love—not for its legalism. When we look down on those who have stumbled, when we refuse to walk with them toward healing, we defy the very nature of the Gospel.

In John 13:35, Jesus said, “Your love for one another will prove to the world that you are my disciples.” Not our eloquent sermons. Not our theological knowledge. Not even our moral record. But our love.

Let us then put on love as the belt that holds all the other garments of grace together, uniting us in harmony rather than dividing us with judgment.

Paul concludes this powerful exhortation with these words: “And let the peace that comes from Christ rule in your hearts. For as members of one body you are called to live in peace. And always be thankful” (Colossians 3:15, NLT).

Peace does not dwell in a heart consumed with superiority. It cannot coexist with spiritual pride. The peace of Christ rules only in hearts surrendered to His lordship and softened by His love.

We are called to live in peace—not merely coexist, but thrive together as a unified body. And this peace is nurtured by a spirit of thankfulness. When we remember what Christ has done for us, we are moved not to judge others, but to bless them.

Gratitude humbles the soul. It reminds us that every gift we possess—including salvation, wisdom, and righteousness—is from God. And from that wellspring of humility, peace flows like a river, washing away arrogance and replacing it with unity.

There was a time in my life when I had to confront my own tendency to judge. I had forgotten how deeply I once needed grace—how at twelve years old, I encountered the life-changing love of Christ Jesus and was baptized under Reverend Joe Broadway at Eastwood Baptist Church in Gatesville, Texas. That moment shaped my life. And yet, there came seasons when I was tempted to look down on others who were struggling.

But the Lord gently reminded me: “Were it not for My mercy, where would you be?” I have since ministered to many individuals who were ready to walk away from their faith, not because of God’s Word, but because of God’s people. They felt excluded, shamed, judged.

Let us never be the reason someone walks away from the Church. Let us instead be the reason they come back.

Paul’s exhortation in Colossians is echoed in Galatians 6:1 (NLT): “Dear brothers and sisters, if another believer is overcome by some sin, you who are godly should gently and humbly help that person back onto the right path.” Gently. Humbly. With the garments of compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience.

We are not spiritual law enforcement. We are spiritual caregivers. The church is not a courtroom; it is a hospital. Let us tend to the wounded, not interrogate them.

As you go about your week, ask yourself: Am I clothed in mercy, or covered in pride? Am I lifting others up, or tearing them down? Reach out to someone who may be struggling in their faith. Let them know they are not forgotten. Help them rise again in the strength of God’s grace. Be the one who restores, not the one who rejects.

Let us put aside the garments of judgment and adorn ourselves with compassion, humility, forgiveness, and love. For these are the true garments of Christ.

So, I say to you, “May the Lord strengthen your faith and use it for His glory, as you walk humbly in His presence.”

Saturday, August 2, 2025

📣 Sunday Message Announcement – August 3, 2025

Title: Clothed in Compassion: Restoring, Not Condemning
Scripture Focus: Colossians 3:12–15 (NLT)
Time of Publication: 12 PM ET on our ministry website

Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,

We invite you to join us this Sunday, August 3rd, at 12 PM ET for a powerful and timely message titled “Clothed in Compassion: Restoring, Not Condemning.” In a world where judgment too often replaces mercy—even within the church—this message will challenge and encourage us to live out the virtues of Christ as laid out in Colossians 3:12–15 (NLT).

As believers, we are not called to be judges over one another, but instead to be healers, restorers, and encouragers, clothed in mercy, kindness, humility, gentleness, patience, and above all, love. This message serves as a heartfelt reminder that we are all sinners saved by grace and must therefore forgive and walk with those who have stumbled, just as Christ has done for us.

Brother Jesse shares both Scriptural insights and personal testimony, offering a sobering yet grace-filled reflection on what it means to be a true follower of Jesus in our interactions with others.

🕊️ Please mark your calendars, set a reminder, and most importantly, share this message with family, friends, and fellow believers. It may be just the encouragement someone needs to find their way back to the arms of Christ.

Let us build up the Body of Christ, not with condemnation, but with compassion.

With every blessing in Christ,
SFIHG Ministries

Friday, August 1, 2025

❤️ From the Heart of Brother Jesse – Friday, August 1, 2025 - The Source of True Strength

Dear friends in Christ,

We admire strength—whether in athletes, leaders, or heroes. But the truest strength is not found in muscle or influence. It is found in surrender.

When we admit our need, when we bend low before the Lord and confess, “I cannot do this without You,” that is where divine strength flows.

If you are feeling weak, take heart. You are closer to God’s power than you realize. Do not measure your worth by how strong you feel, but by how deeply you trust.

Let your strength be found not in yourself, but in Him.

With renewed courage,
Brother Jesse
Co-founder & Sr. Chaplain
SFIHG Ministries