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But Fear Not…

January 17, 2026 /

Matthew Botelho & MaryEllen Montville

“Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness’ sake, For theirs is the Kingdom of heaven. Blessed are you when they revile and persecute you, and say all evil against you falsely for My sake.” –Matthew 5:11-12.

Jesus assured us that in this life, we will have trouble. “I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” –John 16:33

 How we respond to that persecution is up to us.

We can let it hit us so hard that we fall and stay down, or we can persevere in the face of persecution and press forward, as King David and so many other brave soldiers in the faith have. Read Hebrews 11 for a full account of their faithfulness.

Jesus warned that there would come a time when His people would face intense persecution for their faith in Him. “A servant is not greater than his master. If they persecuted me, they will also persecute you”. –John 15:20

Even as this is being written, God placed those facing such persecution right now on our hearts. Brothers and sisters in countries like Egypt, Iraq, Somalia, China, and N. Korea. Countries where people are thrown into jail, beaten, or even killed for demonstrating their faith. As Americans, we have no real idea how truly blessed we are to have the freedom to express our faith and to worship Jesus openly. 

Ecclesiastes reminds us, “That which has been is what will be, That which is done is what will be done, And there is nothing new under the sun” –Ecclesiastes 1:9

Life has always and always will bring with it issues beyond your control.

Whether it be war, famine, or the enemy stirring up chaos, hatred, or confusion, as we see happening today. The Good News is, God is with us through it all. David reminds us of this Truth in his Psalm, “The eyes of the Lord are on the righteous, And His ears are open to their cry. The face of the Lord is against those who do evil, To cut off the remembrance of them from the earth” –Psalm 34:15-16. And talk about persecution: David wrote this Psalm as King Saul pursued him, a brother and man of God he loved and had served faithfully, who turned on him suddenly, wanting David dead. So David went into hiding in Gath, enemy territory.

If we read 1 Samuel 21:10-15, we’ll see why.

David hid because he feared for his life, and it showed. He was worried and fearful to the point that he literally started to act as if he were a madman to fake out those around him who sought to kill him, and he succeeded. The Bible says those who knew David said this of him: “And the servants of Achish said to him, ‘Is this not David the king of the land? Did they not sing of him to one another in dances, saying: ‘Saul has slain his thousands, And David his ten thousands?” Now David took these words to heart, and was very much afraid of Achish the king of Gath.” –1 Samuel 21:11-12

Yet David was indeed fearful and saddened because he had served King Saul faithfully, with love and loyalty, and now, that same man he once served was hunting him down to kill him, and all because God’s hand of favor was upon David. See, God had told the Prophet Samuel to go and anoint David as Israel’s new King, replacing Saul. “The Lord said to Samuel, “How long will you mourn for Saul, since I have rejected him as king over Israel? Fill your horn with oil and be on your way; I am sending you to Jesse of Bethlehem. I have chosen one of his sons to be king.” –1 Samuel 16:1

The apostle Peter reminds us: “Beloved, do not think it strange concerning the fiery trial which to try you, as though some strange things happened.” –1 Peter 4:12

Don’t be surprised when people recognize the call on your life, then try to kill your character by speaking against you. Sadly, a good portion of the time, it will come at the hands of someone close to you, someone you love, serve, or work with. “It is not an enemy who taunts me— I could bear that. It is not my foes who so arrogantly insult me— I could have hidden from them. Instead, it is you—my equal, my companion and close friend. What good fellowship we once enjoyed as we walked together to the house of God.” –Psalm 55:12-14.

Don’t let jealousy or envy stop you from pressing forward.

Regardless of his circumstances, and yours, brothers and sisters in Christ, God’s anointing remained on David. “For the gifts and the calling of God are irrevocable”—Romans 11:29

God called David for a purpose.

God did not leave him to face any trial or persecution alone; the same is true for you, friend.

If you belong to Jesus, God will never leave you nor forsake you, “even if” you face persecution for His name’s sake. “You did not choose Me, but I chose you and appointed you that you should remain, that whatever you ask the Father in My name He will give you.” –John 15:16

God will, however, allow you to experience things that feel uncomfortable to build our trust in Him and strengthen our faith, just as gold placed in fire melts, and its impurities float to the top. Be reminded, though, that your inheritance in the Kingdom of God outweighs any trouble or persecution you may face in this life.

The apostle Peter writes, “In this you greatly rejoice, though now for a little while, if need be, you have been grieved by various trials, the genuineness of your faith, being much more precious than gold that perishes, though it is tested by fire, may be found to praise, honor, and glory at the revelation of Jesus Christ.” –1 Peter 1:6-7

As Jesus said, “Can all your worries add a single moment to your life?” –Matthew 6:1

Worry will never grow your faith, friends.

Worry is the total opposite of faith. Worry is the impure dross that gets burned off us by Holy Spirit in the fire of affliction and persecution—in all our “fiery” trials, so that our faith in Jesus can remain and be made pure.

God wants you to grow in your faith, not carry the worries of the world. Jesus reminds us that when we seek Him, we are seeking the fullness of the Kingdom of heaven. And that He, being the Mediator between man and God, has already filled us with everything we need to overcome whatever will come. “For His divine power has bestowed on us [absolutely] everything necessary for [a dynamic spiritual] life and godliness, through true and personal knowledge of Him who called us by His own glory and excellence.” –2 Peter 1:3

When persecution comes, in any of its forms, I pray this single Truth rise in you and sustain you: “I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” –John 16:33.

Hey friends, Brother Matt speaking: I have dealt with fear and worry, as everyone has. But let me remind you, as I remind myself, to declare this Truth over worry: “The LORD is on my side; I will not fear. What can man do to me?” –Psalm 118:6

I pray this teaching stirred something in you, as it did me.

Take heart, child of God. Jesus has overcome this world, and because He did, so will you!

Friends, if you do not know Jesus, call on Him right now, and repent of your sins today. Be washed by His redeeming blood that takes away your every sin. He is so faithful to forgive. “For He says: “In an acceptable time I have heard you, And in the day of salvation I have helped you.” Behold, now is the accepted time; behold, now is the day of salvation.” –2 Corinthians 6:2

Amen

The New Year of Promise.

January 3, 2026 /

Matthew Botelho

“Oh, clap your hands, all you peoples! Shout to God with the voice of triumph! For the Lord Most High is awesome; He is a great King over all the earth.” –Psalm 47:1-2

After reflecting on everything that happened in 2025, no matter the issue, the truth is that God was in it all. I cannot stop praising Him for the amazing Father He is. When there was any negative thought, God was there. When the doctor’s report came in saying my dad had cancer, and as he went through chemo, God was there. When there was an injury to my ankle with a torn tendon that kept me out of work for 6 months as my amazing wife worked and took care of our family and me, God was there!

Men of God who are reading this, I encourage you to lead your families in holiness and in the peace of our Lord Jesus Christ.

I am reminded in scripture of when Moses led the Israelites through the wilderness, and having no water, they were thirsty. The people started to complain, yet God provided for them. Moses followed God’s instructions, and they were refreshed with fresh water from a rock. Scripture reads: “Behold, I will stand before you there on the rock of Horeb; and you shall strike the rock, and water will come out of it, that the people may drink. “And Moses did so in the sight of the elders of Israel. So he called the name of the place Massah and Meribah, because of the contention of the children of Israel, and because they tempted the Lord, saying, “Is the Lord among us or not?” –Exodus 17:6-7

If you have been walking with the Lord for any length of time, then you’ve likely had a “God was there moment.” A time or times when things looked miserable and bleak, but God! When you and your family felt dry and parched. Moments where you didn’t pray, didn’t seek God because you were, well, plain exhausted.

My brothers and sisters in Christ Jesus, I am here today to remind you that God is in it with you, for 2026. In what? In everything you do! So when He tells you to walk forward, follow Him in faith, knowing that He has your life in His hands. Obedience brings the blessing of God. The prophet Samuel said to Saul after he was disobedient to God, “Has the Lord as great delight in burnt offerings and sacrifices, As obeying the voice of the Lord? Behold, to obey is better than sacrifice, And to heed than the fat of rams.” –1 Samuel 15:22

Jesus wants you to follow and trust in Him in greater measure than ever before.

He wants to remind you that He will always be there for you.

Praise You Jesus!

In 2 Timothy 2:11-13, Paul writes, “This is a faithful saying: For if we died with Him, We shall also live with Him. If we endure, We shall also reign with Him. If we deny Him, He also will deny us. If we are faithless, He remains faithful; He cannot deny Himself.” Take your faith by the hand with an unyielding grip and run into 2026 knowing that if you serve Jesus, you have a great and Mighty God who will never fail you, even when you fail Him.

Be reminded too, that because you are in Christ, you are commanded to deny the desires of your flesh. Yes, you will get tempted, but that temptation does not have a hold on you. Why? Because God has given you a way out of such temptations.

We, believers in Christ Jesus, need only to cry out, “Jesus, help!” and our Mighty God who saved us will make a way out! Paul writes, “No temptation has overtaken you except such is common to man; but God is faithful, who will not allow you to be tempted beyond what you are able, but with temptation will also make a way of escape, that you may be able to bear it.” –1 Corinthians 10:13

Many have been plagued with adultery or porn addiction, men and women.

The book of Proverbs tells us, “Can a man take fire to his blossom and not get burned? Can one walk on hot coals And his feet not be seared? So is he who goes into His neighbor’s wife; Whoever touches her shall not be innocent.” –Proverbs 6:28-29.

Women, you are not exempt from this. Just because it says “man” does not mean you are in the clear. These same temptations come for you as well, and you bear the penalty of sin equally with men. Because no one is exempt, brothers and sisters in Christ, give what has been tempting you, plaguing you this past year, over to Jesus. Why would you want to revisit what Jesus has delivered you from? Remember in Proverbs it says, “As a dog returns to his own vomit, so a fool repeats his folly.” –Proverbs 26:11

There is no greater love than the love God has for all His children. Jesus said, “Greater love has no one than this, than to lay down one’s life for his friends.” –John 15:13

If you belong to Him, Jesus calls you friend, chosen, and heir to the kingdom of God.

In that same chapter of John 15, Jesus says, “No longer do I call you servants, for a servant does not know what his master is doing; but I have called you friends, for all things that I have heard from My Father I have made known to you. You did not choose Me, but I have chosen you and appointed you that you should go and bear fruit, and that fruit should remain, that whatever you ask the Father in My name He may give you.” –John 15:15-16

Jesus laid His life down for you to restore you to right standing with the Father. This divine exchange, His death in exchange for your new Life in Him, that took place 2000 years ago, has saved you from ever experiencing the pit of hell. The apostle Peter writes, “The Lord is not slack concerning His promise, as some count slackness, but long-suffering toward us, not willing that any should perish but that all should come to repentance.” –2 Peter 3:9

God is a God of love, but He is also holy and righteous, and so sin separates us from Him.

Our sin has separated us from going boldly into His presence. So praise Jesus because He, the innocent, died in our place, the guilty ones; we now have redemption and life eternal, and because of Jesus, life with the Father has been restored to us. As scripture says, “But now having been set free from sin, and having become slaves of God, you have your fruit to holiness, and the end, everlasting life. For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.” –Romans 7:22-23

People choose their own final judgement. If Jesus life, death, and resurrection have afforded you such a precious gift as eternal life with Him and the Father, why then would you toss it back at Him like you don’t need it?

This world needs an awakening. The days, hours, and minutes keep ticking past as we grow closer and closer to the glorious day of Christ Jesus’ return! The greatest gift humanity has ever received is the Son of God. So I pray that if you have not said yes to Jesus but have been stirred by God as you read this, you will say yes to Jesus today, right now.

Jesus said, “Repent and believe in the gospel” –Mark 1:15

I pray that as you walk boldly into 2026, you will “Seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness” – Matthew 6:33.

Seek Jesus in your everyday life.

Walk in obedience, serving others in humility.

Be stirred up and be available.

And welcome, new brother or sister, to this New Year of promise! Amen

New Year’s Eve Blessings!

December 31, 2025 /

From: All Of Us!

Greetings, Sonsofthesea family

On the Eve of this New Year, before you take that first-fruits step into God’s next, have you prayed? Have you asked His Holy Spirit to show you what ought not go with you into the “new thing” He’s doing? What must be left at the altar, far behind you, so that you might have the strength, peace, courage, clean hands, heart, and constancy you will need to face whatever is ahead boldly, fiercely, bravely, with fresh determination?

To help us succeed in doing this, I pray, above all, that God’s Holy Spirit strengthen, uphold, lead, and guide us. And I also encourage you, and all of us, to heed Paul’s instructions, all of them, using them as our tried-and-true guide. “…throw off every encumbrance and the sin that so easily entangles, and let us run with endurance the race set out for us. Fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy set before Him endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.”

How can we continue to hold out hope for what may feel impossible and daunting, hope that our yet-unanswered prayer, our heartfelt plea, will be answered by God? You know the one. That prayer you’ve been praying for years now for true and lasting change: of heart, habits, thought patterns, or lifestyle choices, for more of God, so much more, and far less of you. “This is what the Lord says to Zerubbabel: It is not by force nor by strength, but by my Spirit, says the Lord of Heaven’s Armies.”

As the days grow darker and the love of many grows cold, we must trust God now more than ever before, beloved, remembering that apart from Him, we can do nothing of eternal value.

Paul also reminds us that, tired as we may be, as weary and worn out as we may feel at times, we’re not there yet; we must press on, beloved! We are still in this spiritual fight, yet we do not fight alone, ever! Remember that the next time you feel as though you’re standing toe to toe, just you and the enemy of your soul.

Remember, the God of Heaven’s Armies fights for you! Jesus stands with you, always! Hold tight to His promise, wrap it tightly around yourself, shelter and strength, whenever you feel weak or afraid: “Do not fear, for I am with you; do not be afraid, for I am your God. I will strengthen you; I will surely help you; I will uphold you with My righteous right hand.” and “When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and when you go through the rivers, they will not overwhelm you. When you walk through the fire, you will not be scorched; the flames will not set you ablaze.”

And so you must, we must, take a fresh grip with hands made weak maybe and weary by the challenges we faced and fought throughout 2025 and press forward in the strength Christ affords those who belong to Him, encouraged and determined never to turn back or away, but to fight, taking new ground in this New Year, for the Kingdom of our God: “Not that I have already obtained all this, or have already been made perfect, but I press on to take hold of that for which Christ Jesus took hold of me. Brothers, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize of God’s heavenly calling in Christ Jesus.”

We are linking arms with you in the Spirit, joining our prayers to yours for the coming New Year.

Praying for your strength, courage, boldness, and constancy. For greater levels of humility, submission, surrender, and holiness. We pray, too, that the favor and blessings of God rest heavily upon you and your family.

Above all, we pray if you don’t know Jesus, personally, intimately, as Lord, Savior, Friend, the greatest miracle of all will be yours in 2026—your name will be found written in the Lamb’s book of Life! “Like them, he who overcomes will be dressed in white. And I will never blot out his name from the Book of Life, but I will confess his name before My Father and His angels.”

New Year’s Blessings from everyone here at Sonsofthesea!

We thank you for following us and pray you’ll continue to do so as we follow Jesus into 2026…

He Didn’t Stay In The Manger.

December 27, 2025 /

MaryEllen Montville

Then one of the elders said to me, “Do not weep! See, the Lion of the tribe of Judah, the Root of David, has triumphed. He is able to open the scroll and its seven seals.” –Revelation 5:5

In The Chronicles of Narnia, a brief conversation between Mr. Beaver and Susan concerns Aslan. Mr. Beaver states quite matter-of-factly, “Aslan is a lion: the Lion, the great Lion.’ Ooh,’ said Susan. ‘I’d thought he was a man. Is he quite safe? I shall feel rather nervous about meeting a lion.’ ‘Safe?’ said Mr. Beaver, ‘Who said anything about safe? ‘Course he isn’t safe. But he’s good. He’s the King, I tell you.”

Like Susan, many today don’t know King Jesus; they’re confused as to who He truly is. A fictional character who traversed the made-up land of Narnia, Susan questioned who Aslan is; she is not unlike those very real people in our so-called real world who still question Jesus.

Now, I don’t mean those like Susan, whose questions were sincere. Those searching for Truth, to know Jesus more intimately, learn more about Him, His character. All who follow Him have done that, and, hopefully, continue to do so.

No, by “questioning” I mean those who flat-out resist Truth.

Those who question anything and everything even remotely related to Jesus. Those whose motives are to call Jesus and anything associated with Him into question that they might disparage, cast a shadow over, or besmirch His holy name. “And no one puts new wine into old wineskins; otherwise the new [fermenting] wine will [expand and] burst the skins and it will be spilled out, and the skins will be ruined. But new wine must be put into fresh wineskins. And no one, after drinking old wine, wishes for new; for he says, ‘The old is fine.’” –Luke 5:37-39

Those who literally shake their fist in His face both hurt my heart and anger me.

That’s my Husband!

Still, I pray God sends someone, uses anything, perhaps even this teaching, to soften their hearts towards Him, that they may, soon and very soon, proclaim Him as their Lord and Savior. “Do not avenge yourselves, beloved, but leave room for God’s wrath. For it is written: “Vengeance is Mine; I will repay, says the Lord.” / On the contrary, “If your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him a drink. For in so doing, you will heap burning coals on his head.” / Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.” –Romans 12:19-21

Do they rail against Him because they can’t see past Him as the newborn babe, wrapped up and helpless—a baby like all the other babies they’ve seen in countless manger scenes? “How could such a wee, helpless thing possibly harm or ever save me?” they think.

Some of these same souls point out that Mouhammad was a baby once, as well, as were Buddha and Krishna—and that each of them grew up and claimed to offer the same path to eternal life as Jesus. “They have never harmed me. Maybe one of them will save me. Why not?”

No, blind soul! They cannot! They were counterfeits—all of them—mere men, dead and buried now. There is but One true and living King, the God-man whose miraculous birth we just celebrated, Jesus, the Christ.

He alone is the eternal One.

He alone is the only Way to the Father. “Jesus said to him, “I am the [only] Way [to God] and the [real] Truth and the [real] Life; no one comes to the Father but through Me.” –John 14:6

Across the globe, many have heard of Jesus. In fact, some use His name daily and rather loosely, perhaps after stubbing their toe or experiencing a sudden fright. It’s not Mouhammad’s name they’re crying out…

Heartbreaking, really, that so holy a name is used so often in the most unholy of ways.

But I digress…

Even those who act deaf, who deny Jesus’ existence, have heard of Him; God made sure of this. Those who run from Him out of fear, maybe, of letting go of the sins that so easily beset them, are left without excuse. Creation itself testifies of Jesus day after day, His Majesty, Intelligence, Power, of His nature. Even the blind are without excuse. They can hear the wind, sounds made by ocean waves, birds, and a baby’s cry, His creations, all.“For ever since the world was created, people have seen the earth and sky. Through everything God made, they can clearly see his invisible qualities—his eternal power and divine nature. So they have no excuse for not knowing God.” –Romans 1:20

Aside from hearing of Jesus, most have heard stories about Him, especially at Christmastime.

Stories of the baby born in a manger to a young virgin girl named Mary.

They’ve heard the story about the angel announcing His birth to the shepherds in a field.

They’ve heard of His star and the three wise men.

Some have even heard the Gospel preached, accounts of Jesus’ miracles, His healings, that He came to earth as God in the flesh, and that He raised a man named Lazarus from the dead. That He, too, was raised from the dead on the third day.

So maybe these same souls who cannot reconcile Jesus within themselves have only heard Jesus’ tiny cry—spiritually speaking. A babe’s voice only, making no demand on their lives, they turn a deaf ear. Still, having heard at all, they are without excuse. Jesus let loose a cry from His untried lungs into the night sky, proclaiming what can never be unheard: “The Savior of the world has been born.” 

And soI pray, somewhere in the depths of those fleshly hearts who deny Him still, Jesus’ cry will not go unheeded. Open their ears, Lord, to hear the roar of the Lion of the Tribe of Judah calling out to them, “I have called you by name, You are Mine!” “But now, this is what the Lord says—he who created you, Jacob, he who formed you, Israel: “Do not fear, for I have redeemed you; I have summoned you by name; you are mine. When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and when you pass through the rivers, they will not sweep over you. When you walk through the fire, you will not be burned; the flames will not set you ablaze.” –Isaiah 43:1-2

There have always been voices.

Announcing. Proclaiming! Whispering. Rebuking. Judging.

Roaring voices that spoke and speak still, of the failures of God’s people, yet of hope and restoration, too.

Jesus’ voice created our world; our Triune God spoke Words unheard by men over the face of the deep, and life came forth—and it comes forth still. And God will have the final Word, and His Word will not return to Him void. It cannot. “Behold, He is coming with the clouds, and every eye will see Him—even those who pierced Him. And all the tribes of the earth will mourn because of Him. So shall it be! Amen.” –Revelation 1:7

Do you know Jesus? Or, like Susan in Lewis’ story, are you unsure exactly of who Jesus really is to you?

Maybe you wonder, “Is He who He claims to be?

Should you ever read “The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe,” you’ll find Susan not only comes to know Aslan for herself, but she serves Him all the days of her life. Spoiler alert: In Lewis’s books, Aslan represents Jesus.

How wise Susan was. How I pray in all your wondering you’ll follow her example, all the days of your life.

There will always be voices, dear friend.

The decision you’re faced with today is one all men have faced since that night in Bethlehem when Jesus let loose a cry from His untried lungs into the night sky, proclaiming what can never be unheard: “The Savior of the world has been born.” 

Do you believe Him?

In Him? Will you heed His voice and follow Him? “But to as many as did receive and welcome Him, He gave the right [the authority, the privilege] to become children of God, that is, to those who believe in (adhere to, trust in, and rely on) His name.” –John 1:2.

Having lived, died, and been resurrected, Jesus will return. But this time, it won’t be as a wee babe. “Behold, He is coming with the clouds, and every eye will see Him, even those who pierced Him; and all the tribes (nations) of the earth will mourn over Him [realizing their sin and guilt, and anticipating the coming wrath]. So it is to be. Amen.” –Revelation 1:7.

Jesus didn’t stay in that manger…

Humblest Of Beginnings.

December 20, 2025 /

Matthew Botelho

“Glory to God in the highest, And on earth peace, goodwill toward men!” –Luke 2:14

As we approach Christmas, we are reminded of what makes us a Christian: We are sinners who have been saved by grace, washed clean, made new in Christ Jesus. We believe Christ is who He says He is, the only begotten Son of the Father, God in the flesh. That He was born of a virgin, was crucified, died, was buried, and rose again on the third day, defeating sin, death, and the grave. All of this goes far beyond our being associated with Him in name alone. “For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God—not by works, so that no one can boast” –Ephesians 2:8-9

 Without our having this relationship with Jesus, who is the only Way to the Father, we cannot rightfully call ourselves anything but His sinful and lawless creations.

Jesus Christ is not only the reason for the season—He is so much more. Jesus is our salvation. “Salvation is found in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to mankind by which we must be saved.” –Acts 4:12

So we give glory and praise to God for the amazing Gift He has bestowed on men.

All of humanity was plunged into sin and darkness after the fall of man. Sin had entered the world, and death reigned over all creation. But God, in His mercy, made a way for all humanity to escape sin and death by bringing His Son, Jesus, the Savior, into the world. “And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we behold His glory as of the only begotten of the Father, full of grace and truth.” –John 1:14.

When it seemed there was no hope, God brought Light into this world, pushing back the darkness that overshadowed it. Jesus said, “I have come as a light unto the world, that whoever believes in Me should not abide in darkness. And if anyone hears my words and does not believe, I do not judge him; for I did not come to judge the world but to save the world.” –John 12:46-47

This babe grew into a man who wore the mantle of a King. A King who would defeat death and sin forever, and the prophet Isaiah foretold of Jesus’ Lordship: “For unto us a Child is born, Unto us a Son is given; And the government will be upon His shoulder. And His name will be called Wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.” –Isaiah 9:6

Seven hundred years after Isaiah prophesied, God set His plan in motion by sending the angel Gabriel to Mary in a little backwater town called Nazareth. Was there anything special about Nazareth? No. Was Mary a special girl? No. Yet God has a way of using the unlikeliest of persons and places to accomplish His will and plan.

Gabriel tells Mary, “Rejoice, highly favored one, the Lord is with you; blessed are you among women!” –John 2:28. The Bible tells us that Mary had found favor with God. “And behold, you will conceive in your womb and bring forth a Son, and shall call His name Jesus. He will be great, and will be called the Son of the Highest; and the Lord God will give Him the throne of His father David. And He will reign over the house of Jacob forever, and of His kingdom there will be no end.” –Luke 1:31-33

God’s perfect timing for the soon arrival of His only begotten Son was falling into place. Mary, betrothed to Joseph and pregnant with Jesus, journeyed toward Bethlehem.

Scripture reminds us that a decree from Caesar Augustus had gone out, requiring everyone to return to their hometowns to be registered. While in Bethlehem, Joseph’s hometown, the time came for Mary to give birth. “And everyone went to register for the census, each to his own city. So Joseph also went up from Galilee, from the city of Nazareth, to Judea, to the city of David which is called Bethlehem, because he was of the house and family of David, in order to register with Mary, who was betrothed to him, and was with child. While they were there [in Bethlehem], the time came for her to give birth, and she gave birth to her Son, her firstborn; and she wrapped Him in [swaddling] cloths and laid Him in a manger, because there was no [private] room for them in the inn.” –Luke 2:3-7

The fullness of God’s Divine timing had come; Jesus, the Light of the world, was born.

Right about this time, the Bible tells us of an encounter another group of people had. Those seen as nobody, the lowly shepherds, tending their flocks in the field.

Shepherds were considered the lowest of the low. Still, God intended them to be the first to witness this amazing miracle. “In the same region there were shepherds staying out in the fields, keeping watch over their flock by night. And an angel of the Lord suddenly stood before them, and the glory of the Lord flashed and shone around them, and they were terribly frightened. But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid; for behold, I bring you good news of great joy which will be for all the people. For this day in the city of David there has been born for you a Savior, who is Christ the Lord (the Messiah)” –Luke 2:8-11.

Brothers and sisters in Christ, you may be seen as insignificant by the world, but not by God. He loves you deeply.

You may feel like no one sees you, but God does.

You are a masterpiece in His eyes, and He has a purpose for you, just as He did for those shepherds who could hardly believe what they had just witnessed.

Yet how incredible it must have been for them to be witnesses of God’s heralds as they announced the Saviour had come into the world. There may be times when God extends us an invitation that seems unreal, too big, too impossible, as He did to those lowly shepherds. The Bible tells us, “When the angels had gone away from them into heaven, the shepherds began saying one to another, ‘Let us go straight to Bethlehem, and see this [wonderful] thing that has happened which the Lord has made known to us.” So they went in a hurry and found their way to Mary and Joseph, and the Baby as He lay in the manger. And when they had seen this, they made known what had been told them about this Child, and all who heard it were astounded and wondered at what the shepherds told them.” –Luke 2:15-18

It brings God joy when we tell others about Jesus. How can we keep this amazing gift of salvation to ourselves?

You may feel unnoticed, unqualified to share such an invitation. Still, you became a witness to God’s mercy the day Jesus came into your heart. “But as many as received Him, to them He gave the right to become children of God, to those who believe in His name” –John 1:12

God’s invitation to salvation through Jesus is real. In fact, it is the most real thing anyone will ever receive, and it’s been extended to anyone who will call on Jesus. If you sense Jesus is calling you, do not walk away; instead, accept His invitation, His free gift of salvation. Jesus said, “Behold, I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in to him and dine with him, and he with Me.” –Revelation 3:20

I pray your Christmas season be filled with the same joy and peace the angels proclaimed that night in Bethlehem. I pray that as you look at the lights on your tree, you remember the Light of the world who hung on the cross and took all your sins upon Himself. I pray you will share the invitation to know Jesus, and be a witness to all men; not every gift given this season will come wrapped and tied with a bow.

All of us at SonsoftheSea pray you experience the True gift of Christmas, the Joy of the Lord, and His salvation. Amen.

He Didn’t Stay In The Manger…

December 13, 2025 /

MaryEllen Montville

Then one of the elders said to me, “Do not weep! See, the Lion of the tribe of Judah, the Root of David, has triumphed. He is able to open the scroll and its seven seals.” –Revelation 5:5

In The Chronicles of Narnia, there is a brief conversation between Mr. Beaver and Susan regarding Aslan. Quite matter-of-factly, Mr. Beaver states, “Aslan is a lion: the Lion, the great Lion.’ Ooh,’ said Susan. ‘I’d thought he was a man. Is he quite safe? I shall feel rather nervous about meeting a lion.’

‘Safe?’ said Mr. Beaver, ‘Who said anything about safe? ‘Course he isn’t safe. But he’s good. He’s the King, I tell you.”

Like Susan, many today don’t know King Jesus.

Susan, a fictional character who traversed the made-up land of Narnia and questioned who Aslan was, is not unlike the very real people alive today in our real world, so-called. Those who question who Jesus really is still surprise me. Now, I don’t mean questioning in a sincere, searching-for-Truth way, to know Him or learn more about Him, we’ve all done that. No, I’m talking about those who flat out question anything and everything even remotely related to Jesus, just because it’s Jesus. I know, it shouldn’t bother me, I’ve read the Scriptures, about hearts that will be hardened toward Him, those who will literally shake their fist in His face! It all just hurts my heart. That’s my Husband, they’re belittling!

Is it because they can’t see past Him as a newborn, wrapped up and helpless—a baby like all the other babies they’ve seen in countless manger scenes, no different. “How could such a wee helpless thing possibly save me?” they think.

Some of these same souls point out that Mouhammad was a baby once, too, as were Buddha and Krishna—and each of them grew up and claimed to offer the same path to eternal life as Jesus. “Why does it have to be Jesus?” they think. “Maybe one of them will save me, why not?”

 No, blind soul! They cannot! They were counterfeits—all of them—mere men, all dead and buried now. There is but One True and Living King, Jesus, the Christ. He alone is eternal. He alone is the only Way to the Father. “Jesus said to him, “I am the [only] Way [to God] and the [real] Truth and the [real] Life; no one comes to the Father but through Me.” –John 14:6

Many have heard of Jesus, of course. In fact, they’ve used His name rather loosely after stubbing their toe or after experiencing some sudden fright. They don’t cry out, “Oh, Mouhammad!” Heartbreaking, really, that so holy a name as Jesus is so often used in the most unholy of ways. But I digress…

Even those who act deaf, deny Jesus’ existence, run from Him out of fear of letting go of the sins that so easily beset them, have all heard of Jesus. Of this, He’s made sure. Creation testifies to Him, His Majesty, Power, and nature, day after day. “For ever since the world was created, people have seen the earth and sky. Through everything God made, they can clearly see his invisible qualities—his eternal power and divine nature. So they have no excuse for not knowing God.” –Romans 1:20

Aside from hearing of Jesus, like Susan, most have heard stories about Him, especially at Christmastime.

Stories of a baby born in a manger to a young virgin girl named Mary. They’ve heard the story about the angel announcing His birth to the shepherds in the field. They’ve heard of the star and the wise men. Some have even heard the Gospel accounts of Jesus’ miracles, His healings, and of Him raising some guy named Lazarus from the dead.

Maybe these same souls who cannot reconcile Jesus within themselves have only heard Jesus’ tiny cry—spiritually speaking. A babe’s voice, making no demand on their lives, unlike the voice of the King we serve, the King who commands us, “Follow Me.”

There was a cry let loose from untried lungs, sending unformed Words out into that night long ago, a proclamation to all who had ears to hear. “The Savior of the world has been born.”  

That same cry echoes around the planet, still.

I pray, somewhere in the depths of their fleshly hearts, His Divine call will not, can not, go unheeded, and ears once able to hear only the sound of a wee babe in a manger will now hear the roar of the Lion of the Tribe of Judah calling out to them, “You are Mine!” “But now, this is what the Lord says—he who created you, Jacob, he who formed you, Israel: “Do not fear, for I have redeemed you; I have summoned you by name; you are mine. When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and when you pass through the rivers, they will not sweep over you. When you walk through the fire, you will not be burned; the flames will not set you ablaze.” –Isaiah 43:1-2

There have always been voices.

Announcing. Proclaiming! Whispering. Rebuking. Judging. Thundering. Roaring voices that spoke and speak still, of the failures of God’s people, yet of hope and restoration, too.

The world was created by voices; Words spoken over the face of the deep by our Triune God, unheard by men, they roar still. God will have the final Word, and it will not return to Him void. It cannot. “Behold, He is coming with the clouds, and every eye will see Him—even those who pierced Him. And all the tribes of the earth will mourn because of Him. So shall it be! Amen.” –Revelation 1:7

Do you know Jesus? Or, like Susan in C.S. Lewis’ story, have you only heard tell of Him, unsure exactly who He is? Maybe you wonder if He is who He claims to be? Should you ever read his book, “The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe”, you’ll find that Susan not only comes to know Aslan (Jesus) for herself, but she serves Him all the days of her life. How wise she was. How I pray in all your wondering you’ll follow Susan’s example, and follow Jesus all the days of your life.

There have and will always be voices, dear friend.

The decision you’re faced with is the same all men have faced since that night in Bethlehem when Jesus’ untried lungs bellowed His unformed Words into the night sky, announcing what can never be unheard: “The Savior of the world has been born.”  

And having lived and died and conquered death and the grave, having resurrected, He’s coming back again. But not as a wee babe this time.

Jesus didn’t stay in the manger…“And there is salvation in no one else; for there is no other name under heaven that has been given among people by which we must be saved [for God has provided the world no alternative for salvation].” –Acts 4:12

Spirit and Truth.

November 29, 2025 /

Pastor Maria Braga

“But the hour is coming, and is now here, when the true worshipers will worship the Father in Spirit and Truth, for the Father is seeking such people to worship him. God is Spirit, and those who worship him must worship in Spirit and Truth.” –John 4:23-24

When I first came to Jesus, I was paralyzed with fear in every area of my life. I felt like reading the Bible was just something every believer did, and I had to do it too, or else, but at the same time, I had such joy that I couldn’t wait to get to it daily. I read through those 66 books over and over. I couldn’t wait to finish so I could start over again. I would read the Scriptures whenever I had the chance. I even believed that if I didn’t read enough, God would be upset at me. Reading was a task I had to religiously complete in those days, maybe because of my background. All of this was great, and looking back, I realize that season was fantastic for enriching my knowledge of God’s history, His church history through Jesus and the Holy Spirit, and my spiritual nourishment.

As I grew in Christ and the Holy Spirit, I came to a different understanding and realized that, for that season, I did what I was supposed to do; that was what my lifeline was in that season of my life. I will read my Bible continually till the day my eyes are too old to see, but I read with excitement and faith, not out of fear like I had in those early days. I understand that there may be times when I am unable to read. Still, God is Spirit who lives in me, and He ministers to me not only through the reading of His Word but also through His Holy Spirit. I now have this freedom, a place where I know I can receive from the Father, Son, and the Holy Spirit wherever I am. When I seek my God in Word, prayer, worship, and fellowship, it brings my heart to a place of intimacy with God. I understand that my worship of Jesus is not dependent on a specific location or any other human demands, but comes from His word and the depths of my being where His Spirit abides.

Worshipping in Spirit and in Truth is my reality; it’s sincere from the depths of my heart, genuine, and like a river flowing from my depths into the heart of God. This happens when I read, I pray, worship to song, or sit at the feet of Jesus.

Worshipping in Spirit and in Truth draws me closer to my Lord through this intimacy, and my Lord draws closer to me. Oftentimes, when I have no words, my own Spirit within me cries out with groans as it says in Romans 8:26, “And the Holy Spirit helps us in our weakness. For example, we don’t know what God wants us to pray for. But the Holy Spirit prays for us with groanings that cannot be expressed in words.”

Forty years later, I live free and believe God’s Word is a lamp unto my feet. I follow a daily step-by-step plan, along with my prayer life, fellowship, and intimate times with my Abba Father.

Now, when I read God’s Word, worship, pray, or engage in any other Christian activity, my head and my heart are both involved; it feels like my whole being is enthralled in the moment.

Those who worship Him worship in Spirit and in Truth, because He is “The Truth” we are desperate for. We might not see Him in person, but our Spirit knows how magnificent He is, how gentle and caring He is, and how kind He is to us.

Worshipping in Spirit and in Truth must be vital and genuine in our hearts, resting in an accurate perception of who God is to us personally. Spirit and Truth are inseparable in the life of the believer. Truth is associated with emotion, and Truth without emotion results in dead religion and artificial admirers. Equally, emotion without Truth produces empty frenzy, shallow people who don’t take discipline or reverence for God and His commands. This true worship comes from a deep, sound place within us, a deep love and sound doctrine. Our strong affection for our God when we worship in Spirit and in Truth is the bone and marrow of biblical worship.

We must encourage one another in the most holy faith as we move forward, serving the King of Kings and the Lord of Lords.

Each minute is a celebration of life. Each Sunday, around the world, we, who make up His Body, gather to host spiritual, family events called “Church.” How wonderful it is to journey from the day we are born-again, through our water baptism, through the baptism of the Holy Spirit, and on to grow through His Word, and fellowship with other saints, celebrating the grace and spiritual life Jesus gave us. We are blessed and highly favored by the One who calls us his children and heirs of His kingdom, forever living in His Kingdom with Him.

Worshipping in Spirit and in Truth is the essence of our connection to Jesus.

We must be intentional in our daily walk and diligently seek this connection with God’s Holy Spirit in the depths of our Spirit!

Father, help me to dive deeper into the waters of your Holy Spirit, teach me your Ways, and create in me a pure heart to seek after intimacy with you, be my strength when I am weak, and my stronghold when I need a hiding place. Deepen my understanding of your depth, and rescue me from the areas I need to recover in Jesus’ name, Amen.

Father, draw near to the one who needs you, the one who is seeking Truth, fill them with your Spirit, that they might be one with you even as you and I are one, I pray, in Jesus’ name.

“For I know the plans and thoughts that I have for you,’ says the Lord, ‘plans for peace and well-being and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope. Then you will call on Me and you will come and pray to Me, and I will hear [your voice] and I will listen to you. Then [with a deep longing] you will seek Me and require Me [as a vital necessity] and [you will] find Me when you search for Me with all your heart.” –Jeremiah 29:11-13

Amen.

He Is For You.

November 22, 2025 /

MaryEllen Montville

“[What, what would have become of me] had I not believed that I would see the Lord’s goodness in the land of the living! “Wait and hope for and expect the Lord; be brave and of good courage and let your heart be stout and enduring. Yes, wait for and hope for and expect the Lord.” –Psalm 27:13-14

From Genesis through Revelation, we see Jesus—God’s Love for you and me. Having once wrapped Himself in human flesh, out of obedience and love for the Father, Jesus chose to leave behind the fullness of His Deity —to understand, empirically, our plight and pain; to partake in our elementary human experiences, and, ultimately, to fulfill the Father’s plan for our redemption. “For we do not have a High Priest who is unable to sympathize and understand our weaknesses and temptations, but One who has been tempted [knowing exactly how it feels to be human] in every respect as we are, yet without [committing any] sin.” –Hebrews 4:15

Have you ever faced a test or trial, a loss so devastating it left you feeling dismantled? Hollow? Cavernous or afraid perhaps, to move too quickly, lest you collapse in on yourself? Have you ever felt as though just one slight misstep could cause the proverbial dominoes that have suddenly become your life to fall, ushering in the end of things? What things, you weren’t quite sure of—but of their end, you were certain.

I have.

After having walked through the back-to-back deaths of four inimitable people in my life in just a few short years: husband, mother, brother, and my “other” mother, I felt gutted, hollow, a mere shell of myself; utterly alone in my pain. Able to relate, in some watered-down way, to my Savior who had also cried out, “My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?” –Matthew 27:46.

I had temporarily forgotten that none of those who passed away, loved as they were, was my Due North, my Guide or moral compass. Still, I felt as though I no longer knew which way was up or what I was doing.

For a long period of time, of which I’d lost complete track, my life consisted of tiny breaths and even smaller steps—feeling as though the mere weight of a feather landing on me would, without exaggeration, topple me.

There were moments when it felt as though my toes had touched the line of “If just one more thing happens, my cheese is going to slip right off my cracker.” Looking back on those days today, I, too, sometimes wonder: “What, what would have become of me had I not believed that I would see the Lord’s goodness in the land of the living!”

How I thank God that not one more thing did happen.

Equally, I thank Him that I didn’t have to bear any of what had happened, on my own, alone. “Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for You are with me. Your rod and Your staff, they comfort me.” –Psalm 23:4

How I thanked Him then and still today, for hemming me in. “You hem me in behind and before, and you lay your hand upon me.” –Psalm 139:5

For binding up my gaping wounds, ensuring I would not ever, even on the worst of days and those dark, long nights, be left alone to collapse in on myself. “He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds [healing their pain and comforting their sorrow]”. –Psalm 147:3

So to answer the question David poses to us, flesh and blood men, we bruised and life-battered reeds: “Surely, minus the God who never left nor forsook me, the God who came and sat and held and strengthened and brought to my remembrance every Word of His I’d ever read; His every promise to me, a life line throw at just the right time. I would have sunk into dark despair.”

“Your word is a lamp to guide my feet and a light for my path. I’ve promised it once, and I’ll promise it again: I will obey your righteous regulations. I have suffered much, O Lord; restore my life again as you promised.” –Psalm 119:105-107

How I thank God for Jesus, who would not let me slip away into the deep abyss of sorrow and despair that threatened to pull me under. Without Jesus and His Holy Spirit at work in me, I would have wished for death to release me from so much life-exacting pain. Truth be told, even with Him, and, like Him, there were moments when I cried out, “Take this from me, Lord! It’s too much! It’s killing me!” “My soul is overwhelmed with sorrow to the point of death” –Matthew 26:38.

And He did.

In His unplumbed, unfathomable, undeserved mercy—He did. Knowing firsthand the exacting weight of crosses, Jesus lifted the weight of my cross from my weak-as-water shoulder.

Oh, how I bless Him. I bow before Him in complete acknowledgement of my absolute need for Him, my utter dependence on Him. His strength and kindness. His full awareness of my weakness, of this dirt and molecules form. Because of Jesus’ strength in my hour of weakness, I learned this Life-affirming Truth, yet again. is strength in my eweakness, I learned, theHIs”So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.” –Isaiah 41:10

This same Jesus had me pour out my heart here, to you. Sharing some small slice of my testimony just for you, beloved of God. Because He knew you’d need to hear these words right now. To be reminded of His faithfulness and promises to you. To remind you, you are no more alone than I was—and you will, you will, because He lives, you will come through your storm. “And they overcame and conquered him because of the blood of the Lamb and because of the word of their testimony, for they did not love their life and renounce their faith even when faced with death.” –Revelation 12:11.

Hear me now. You won’t come out of such a storm the same, so don’t expect that; it’s okay, you weren’t supposed to.

Such powerful winds are meant to uproot and carry some things away. What God will do and bring next will be far greater, stronger, and better than you can hope for. “In this you greatly rejoice, though now for a little while you may have had to suffer grief in various trials / so that the proven character of your faith—more precious than gold, which perishes even though refined by fire—may result in praise, glory, and honor at the revelation of Jesus Christ.” –1 Peter 1:6-7

But, if you’ll just trust Him, His plan, trust that, contrary to how it may feel right now, God is not trying to kill you but to refine, strengthen, and build you into something so deeply rooted in Him you’re unshakable, then I promise, you will come out the other side of your trial or loss better, stronger, made more perfect, more like Jesus. As one who survived the storm, I can attest to the validity of this Truth. “Now this expression, “Yet once more,” indicates the removing of those things which can be shaken, as of created things, so that those things which cannot be shaken may remain.” –Hebrews 12:27

He is for you, Beloved of the Lord. Hang on, not in your strength, that’s impossible, but in His. Knowing that your roots are growing deeper as a result of the storm. “God, your God, will restore everything you lost; he’ll have compassion on you”. –Deuteronomy 30:3

Friend, times of trial, loss, and testing fall upon us all, the saved and yet saved alike. You must decide for yourself how you will endure such testing: in your own strength, or will you rely on the strength of the One who created you? Jesus, the One who knows your end from your beginning. He is for you, friend. The question is: will you give yourself to Him? “Then you will call upon Me and come and pray to Me, and I will listen to you. / You will seek Me and find Me when you search for Me with all your heart.” –Jeremiah 29:12-13.

Heeding the Shepherds Voice.

November 15, 2025 /

Matthew Botelho

“My sheep hear My voice, and I know them, and they follow Me.” –John 10:27

I watched this amazing video of a shepherd giving a tour of his land to some tourists, and in the distance, you could see his sheep grazing. He told the tourists it was time for his sheep to come home and asked one of them to call them in. He told them that his sheep responded to the word “come”. A young woman stepped out and yelled the word “come,” but not one sheep showed up.

The shepherd looked at her with a smile, then asked the gentleman next to her if he would try to call his sheep in. The shepherd told the man to really yell this time, and as the young man stepped up, he called loudly, “COME!!” “Surely, all those sheep must have heard me,” he thought. “I’m certain they’ll come running now.” Yet not one came.

“Why did they not come when we called them?” they asked.

You said to yell “come,” and we both did, “but not one of them came to either of us,” the young man said.

The shepherd answered by smiling, looking towards his flock, and yelling, “Come.”

No sooner did the shepherd call than the first few sheep came, baahing and making happy sheep noises. Then the rest of the flock followed. All in attendance were amazed and excited to see the sheep come to their shepherd. He looks at the crowd of people with a smile and says jokingly, “I guess they know me.”

From an early age, the shepherd is with his sheep.

He tends to them, paying special attention and care to the rejected baby lambs, known as bummer lambs. After a while, these sheep learn their shepherd’s voice, and, when hearing the voice of the one who cares for them, they answer only to his call. Jesus says, “And when he brings out his own sheep, he goes before them; and the sheep follow him, for they know his voice.” –John 10:4

It was so beautiful to see how the sheep responded to their shepherd in that video, how they recognized his voice—the one who protects and cares for them —and how they ran to him when he called them to himself.

This is what Jesus did for all of His lambs: He died so we can live for all eternity with the Good Shepherd.

Jesus said, “Most assuredly, I say to you, I am the door to the sheep. All who ever came before Me are thieves and robbers, but the sheep did not hear them. I am the door. If anyone enters by Me, he will be saved, and will go in and out and find pasture.” –John 10:7-9

What I found interesting was that when the first two people tried to call the sheep in but weren’t able to, not one sheep responded. It reminded me of the people who claim that all religions lead to God when Jesus clearly declares, “I am the way, the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me.” –John 14:6

The sheep trust the shepherd to bring them to safe places to graze and to keep them out of harm’s way; there are many dangers out in the pastures.

There are wild animals, like wolves, who try —notice I said try —to come and snatch any sheep that has strayed, is alone, exposed. Others, known as thieves, try to steal a few sheep away for themselves. “My Father, who has given them to Me, is greater than all; and no one is able to snatch them out of My Father’s hand.” –John 10:29

Jesus warns us to be careful of false teachers and false prophets.

When you are rooted in Christ and know His word, listening only to your Shepherd’s voice, nothing can snatch you out of His hand. Your salvation is secure in Christ Jesus. In Psalm 23, the psalmist writes, “The Lord is my Shepherd; I shall not want. He makes me lie down in green pastures; He leads me beside the still waters. He restores my soul; He leads me in paths of righteousness For His name sake.” –Psalm 23:1-3

Brothers and sisters in Christ Jesus, be careful about what you watch on television and scroll through on social media. With the introduction of AI, many false teachers have been set loose, and deception is running rampant. Jesus said, “Beware of false prophets, who come to you in sheep’s clothing, inwardly are ravenous wolves.” –Matthew 7:15

They may look like shepherds, but when they speak, they only mimic what they’ve heard their father speak: lies and deception. “Why do you not understand what I am saying? It is because you are unable to accept My message. You belong to your father, the devil, and you want to carry out his desires. He was a murderer from the beginning, refusing to uphold the truth, because there is no truth in him. When he lies, he speaks his native language, because he is a liar and the father of lies.” –John 8:43-44.

The same kind of lies the serpent in the Garden of Eden told Adam and Eve: “You will not surely die.” –Genesis 3:4.

That one lie led to the fall of all mankind.

All those who follow wolves-in-sheep’s-clothing —those who claim their path is the right way —will sadly find out in the end that what they were told, believed, and followed was a lie. There is salvation in none other than Jesus Christ, not Buddha nor Mohammad, or Allah—only Jesus. “And there is salvation in no one else; for there is no other name under heaven that has been given among people by which we must be saved [for God has provided the world no alternative for salvation].” –Acts 4:12.

Follow the thief, that counterfeiter, and you will remain unsaved, in your sin, because he cannot lead you to only One who can redeem you. Jesus promised that you will live for all eternity with the Father if you follow Him, the Good Shepherd who laid down His life for His sheep. “The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy. I have come that they may have life, and have it in all its fullness. I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down His life for the sheep.” –John 10:10-11

Stay in the Word of God, my dear brothers in Christ. Stay close to the Shepherd, stay alert, and by the power of His Spirit at work in you, you’ll be able to distinguish lies from His Truth.

God’s Holy Spirit will expose those who teach lies and deceit. Jesus declared, “However, when He, the Spirit of truth has come, He will guide you into all truth; for He will not speak on His own authority, but whatever He hears He will speak; and He will tell you things to come.” –John 16:13

Jesus has sealed all who believe in the same Holy Spirit, He promised us. “In Him, you also, when you heard the word of truth, the good news of your salvation, and [as a result] believed in Him, were stamped with the seal of the promised Holy Spirit [the One promised by Christ] as owned and protected [by God].” –Ephesians 1:13

My dear friends in Christ, I urge you to stay close to your Shepherd. I know I have said this many times in this teaching, but for your sake, I’ll repeat it: stay close to the shepherd.

It’s growing darker, brothers and sisters, and we need to be empowered by God’s Holy Spirit daily. But be encouraged: God is for you, my dear brothers, and as it says in scripture, “If God be for us then who can be against us?” –Romans 8:31

In closing, I’ll say we at Sons of the Sea are praying for each of you. So, to those of you who may be reading this blog for the very first time and want to know more about our Good Shepherd, Jesus, He desires to walk with you and so longs to have a relationship with you. Call on Jesus today and repent of your sins. Receive the free gift of salvation and believe that He is the only Way, the Truth, and the Life. “Truly, truly, I tell you, whoever hears My word and believes Him who sent Me has eternal life and will not come under judgment. Indeed, he has crossed over from death to life.” –John 5:24

Amen.

The Grace To Let Go.

November 8, 2025 /

MaryEllen Montville

“There is a season (a time appointed) for everything and a time for every delight and event or purpose under heaven—A time to be born and a time to die; A time to plant and a time to uproot what is planted.” –Ecclesiastes 3:1-2

Seasons are appointed by God, in nature, and in the lives of His children. If you’ve walked through a few of your own, you know seasons change, and that letting go of a season can be a challenge. Painful—at first, laden with goodbyes. Our natural eyes focus on what we’ve been asked to release, move on from. Our fleshly desire is to cling, to remain the same, to foster what’s become comfortable—consciously or not. Initially, we don’t see — maybe can’t see — what’s actually happening. Growth! God tapping into gifts and talents we didn’t even know we possessed.

Gideon can attest.

In Judges 6:11-40, read how God tapped into Gideon’s gifts, how He used them for His glory.

Beloved, as with Gideon, a new season is now upon us. God is tapping into us, desiring that we now produce new or different fruits.

Even the absolute best of seasons end.

Summer must give way to Spring, who steps aside for Fall, who shelters itself from Winter’s frozen grip before each will come around, yet again: “What has been will be again, what has been done will be done again; there is nothing new under the sun.” –Ecclesiastes 1:9

The question facing us then becomes: will we have the grace to let go?

For me, this season changed suddenly—at least, that’s how it felt. I’ll admit it took me a second to get my bearings and take my feelings of loss, my desire to hang on, and my admitted questioning, before the Lord. The Lord, whom I know, from experience, gives and takes away.

I’ve walked with Him, through the valley of the shadow of death, several times, with both parents, my brother, and my husband. He’s asked me to sell the “treasures” I’ve accumulated and give the money to the church. To leave behind a cushy job, an apartment, and my beloved church family in Waikiki, Hawaii, and then move to the frozen Mainland of Massachusetts. Where, specifically? He didn’t say.

“Go back to Massachusetts.” I had a clue as to where, but that’s it.

I had to trust He’d show me exactly where when I got there. So, I and what I could fit into my two suitcases, a carry-on, and two cardboard boxes boarded the plane by faith.

I share this only to emphasize God’s faithfulness.

To help you and me remain faithful and steadfast when our season shifts again, suddenly, because it will. To encourage us both to be intentional about keeping a very loose grip on anything in this world—our loved ones, ministry, our finances, etc.

We never know when God may ask us to return His gift; we know, or should, that they are never ours, not for keeps. “I came naked from my mother’s womb, and I will be naked when I leave. The LORD gave me what I had, and the LORD has taken it away. Praise the name of the LORD!” –Job 1:21

Lastly, to remind you, it’s solely by God’s Holy Spirit at work in us that we’ll ever accomplish such a feat. “Not by might nor by power but by My Spirit” –Zechariah 4:6.

My true character—that is, the Godly character He has been faithfully, painstakingly cultivating within me over my 18-year walk with Him—was quickly revealed during this most recent “season.”

Truth be told, I’m thankful it was.

I learned a few things about myself—starting with the condition of my heart. Areas that need much more submission, obedience, and surrender.

Still, God, in His mercy, allowed me to see I’ve grown, and am growing, still. Learning just how low my King is willing to bow to maintain a relationship with the likes of me.

Spiritual growth is imperative to our faith walk—if we’re not growing and changing, something’s wrong; we’re likely regressing—or, God forbid, dying. “Any branch in Me that does not bear fruit [that stops bearing] He cuts away (trims off, takes away); and He cleanses and repeatedly prunes every branch that continues to bear fruit, to make it bear more and richer and more excellent fruit.” –John 15:2.

And yes, it is biblical to check ourselves. We’re supposed to. “So then, my dear ones, just as you have always obeyed [my instructions with enthusiasm], not only in my presence, but now much more in my absence, continue to work out your salvation [that is, cultivate it, bring it to full effect, actively pursue spiritual maturity] with awe-inspired fear and trembling [using serious caution and critical self-evaluation to avoid anything that might offend God or discredit the name of Christ].” –Philippians 2:12

Thus far, beloved, this season is definitely putting my growth and maturity in Christ to the test!

Yet, what guides me, no, Who it is that guides me, my Lord, assures me, change is of Him, it’s part of His plan.

He’s preparing me — preparing us, beloved — for His next.

The Holy Spirit is cultivating our environment, perhaps transplanting us, so that we might continue to grow. He’s nurturing our vineyard, pruning, and tilling our soil.

Keeping it agricultural, God is readying us to bear our next “crop.”

Anyone who has experienced this knows that, though necessary for continued growth, being pruned, prepared, and transplanted can be painful—even when “we know that we know God is at work in us. “For God is working in you, giving you the desire and the power to do what pleases him.” –Philippians 2:13

I choose Jesus. To follow Him. Hands down. Again today, and forever, I pray.

This peace I have, to release what He first placed in my hands, and trust Him with this new season: the changes, the yet unexplored territory, the new ground to be taken, the next mountain to be climbed, the valley I will walk through—is happening according to Jesus’ Perfect will for my life and all He’s entrusted to my care. And, though I know moving forward things are going to look and work differently, Peace whispers, “This is the Way, walk in it.”  –Isaiah 30:21

So I follow Him. And I encourage you to do the same, beloved of God.

I’m praying over your new season as if it were my own. If you belong to my Father, we’re family, and I want only God’s perfect will for your life—God knows my heart. And if we’re not yet family, we can be, if you want to be. Ask my Father to be yours, and mean it. He’s waiting for your return with open arms. “So he returned home to his father. And while he was still a long way off, his father saw him coming. Filled with love and compassion, he ran to his son, embraced him, and kissed him.” –Luke 15:20

One day, screens will no longer separate us, and how I long to one day hear you say, “God heard my prayer, and He came, just as He said He would. And though it was painful to let go, because I knew it was of Him, I did!”

Beloved, we must choose to follow God’s path, even when it narrows or becomes difficult to navigate. It’s the only sure Way to thrive in any season. “Enter through the narrow gate. For wide is the gate and broad is the road that leads to destruction, and many enter through it. 14 But small is the gate and narrow the road that leads to life, and only a few find it.” Matthew 7:13-14

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