If We Consider God a Capitalist

 

Visakhapatnam June 17, 2025

God values honesty, hard work, and wise investment. That’s what the first half of the Fourth Commandment teaches us.

When we read the Fourth Commandment, we often remember the Sabbath Day, but the first part says: “Six days you shall labor and do all your work…” (Exodus 20:9)

Work is part of God’s design. He Himself worked for six days to create the world. And just as He labored with purpose and care, He expects us to do the same. God has given each of us talents—skills, time, and opportunities—and He expects us to use them wisely for His glory.

In Matthew 25:14–30, Jesus tells the parable of the talents. A master entrusts his servants with different amounts of money—five, two, and one talent—each according to their ability. The first two invest and double their portions. But the third, out of fear, buries his talent in the ground.

When the master returns, he rewards the first two for their diligence and calls them "good and faithful servants." But the third is rebuked for his laziness and fear, and his talent is taken from him.

The message is clear: God expects us to make the most of what He has given us. If we work faithfully, He will bless us. If we hide our gifts or waste our time, we risk losing even what we have.

However, there’s a warning too. Some people twist honest work and investment into something evil. They lie, cheat, steal, and covet. They break God’s Commandments in their pursuit of wealth. They treat money as their god.

Jesus warned us plainly:
“You cannot serve both God and money.” (Matthew 6:24)

Those who worship the “Almighty Buck” are in great spiritual danger. Money is a tool—but it must never become our master.

So let us be people who:

·         Work hard and with integrity

·         Speak the truth

·         Treat others fairly and with kindness

·         And above all, worship God—not money

Let’s remember: God comes first. Always.

Shalom!!

A Chosen Generation

 By Ezekiel Polinati

Chosen Out of the World

Jesus Said  "I have chosen you!" — John 15:16

These powerful words carry a deep and special meaning for every child of God. Each day, our heartfelt prayer should be, “Lord, help me to live this truth — not just today, but every day.”

If God has truly chosen us, then no matter what struggles or challenges we face, we can trust that He will provide a way through them. Everyone faces problems — whether saved or unsaved, spiritually mature or still growing in faith. Until our final breath, life will have its share of troubles. Following Christ doesn’t mean a trouble-free life. In fact, sometimes our problems may even increase.

But here is our great comfort: Jesus says, “I have chosen you.” This brings peace and assurance. Despite knowing everything about us — even the things hidden from others, our weaknesses, failures, and sins — He still chose us. He sees our inner struggles, our moments of falling short, and yet, He assures us: “You have been bought, redeemed, and cleansed by My blood. I have chosen you out of the world.”

In the book of Ephesians, the Apostle Paul describes God’s people in seven beautiful ways:

1.      The Church

2.      His Body

3.      The New Man

4.      God’s Family or Household

5.      God’s Masterpiece

6.      His Holy Temple

7.      The Bride of Christ

What incredible love! What amazing grace! What a glorious salvation!

Shalom!!

Don’t Let Dirty Water Stop You from Growing

Ezekiel, Visakhapatnam June 11, 2025
 
Personal, Spiritual ro Professional growth is a lot like how plants grow. A plant doesn’t stop growing just because the water is dirty—it keeps reaching for the sunlight. In the same way, we shouldn’t let negative words, criticism, or hurtful actions stop our growth. That’s why the saying goes: "Don’t let negative words stop your progress."

We see a great example of this in the life of Joseph. He was rejected by his brothers, sold as a slave, and wrongly put in prison. But Joseph didn’t let anger or bitterness take over. He stayed faithful to God, and God stayed with him through all his struggles.

Later, Joseph became a great leader in Egypt and helped save many lives during a famine. When he finally met his brothers again, he said something powerful: "You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good." (Genesis 50:20). His story shows us that even the worst situations can lead to something good when we trust God.

Life is not always easy. People may hurt us or try to bring us down. But just like a plant grows in tough soil, we can grow too. Not by our own strength, but by staying close to God and trusting His plan.

The Bible reminds us in Romans 12:21, "Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good." This verse encourages us to stay strong. When people treat us badly or say hurtful things, we have a choice—we can feel defeated, or we can choose to keep doing good and trust that God sees everything we’re going through.

So, keep growing. Keep moving forward. Don’t let the "dirty water" of life stop you. God has a beautiful plan for you, and He will help you reach it.

Shalom!!

STRONGEST - True Strength in Serving Others

 

“The strongest people make time to help others, even if they are struggling with their own problems.” This simple yet profound truth echoes deeply with the spirit of selfless love found in the Bible. True strength is not just measured by physical ability or outward success, but by the willingness to serve others even when one is hurting or burdened.

One of the most powerful examples is Jesus Christ Himself. While enduring the agony of the cross, He noticed the repentant thief beside Him and offered him hope and salvation. Despite His own suffering, Jesus said, “Assuredly, I say to you, today you will be with Me in Paradise” (Luke 23:43, NKJV). Even in His darkest hour, Jesus cared more about the thief seeking help -  than His own pain. This is divine strength in action.

We can look into the life of Joseph, who was betrayed, enslaved, and imprisoned. Yet, in his hardship, he interpreted dreams for Pharaoh’s officials, which eventually led to saving Egypt, his own family and many other nations from famine. Likewise, Apostle Paul, while in prison, wrote letters filled with encouragement and wisdom. His trials did not stop him from building up others' faith.

These men didn’t wait for their problems to end before serving—they served in the midst of them.  So, “Let each of you look out not only for his own interests, but also for the interests of others.” Philippians 2:4 (NKJV)

This is Godly strength. It doesn’t mean to avoid problems, but choosing to care for others instead of feeling sorry for ourselves. Even when we are feeling down, we can still help others. By this, we show the love of Jesus and encourage others to do the same. “Bear one another’s burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ.” — Galatians 6:2 (NKJV)

Shalom!!

From Hair-Tied Focus to Gadget Distractions: How Students Have Changed Over 100 Years

By Ezekiel Polinati

Visakhapanam, AP June 4, 2025

In 1905, a student at the University of Madras was so serious about studying that he would tie his hair to a nail on the wall. This way, if he felt sleepy, the pull on his hair would wake him up. Students worked hard because education was rare and very important. It was their only way to improve their lives and earn respect.

As one old saying goes, “Where there is no struggle, there is no strength.” These students were willing to struggle for every bit of knowledge. They had no time for distractions.

Today in 2025, things are very different. Thanks to technology, students have easy access to information, online classes, smart learning tools, and global study groups. These tools make learning easier and more flexible. But at the same time, there are many distractions.

Students now face constant alerts, social media posts, and short videos that steal their attention. Apps like Snapchat, Instagram, YouTube Shorts, and TikTok are made to keep people watching for hours. Because of this, it’s hard for students to focus deeply on their studies.

As one student said, “I open my phone to check a formula, and suddenly I’ve wasted an hour watching reels.” Many students delay their work—not because they’re lazy, but because their devices are always tempting them with quick entertainment.

Still, not everything is bad. Many students understand this problem and try to fix it. They use apps to block distractions, study in groups, or take breaks from technology. Some even go back to writing by hand and using notebooks to stay focused.

“Sometimes the only way forward is to unplug,” says a college tutor who encourages tech-free study sessions.

The desire to learn hasn’t disappeared—it’s just harder to hold on to. In 1905, students had to fight sleep. In 2025, students must fight their gadgets.

“The tools have changed, but the goal is still the same—keep learning, no matter what.”

Times have changed, but the spirit to succeed still lives on—even if it’s harder to see.

“Whatever your hand finds to do, do it with your might; for there is no work or device or knowledge or wisdom in the grave where you are going.”

— Ecclesiastes 9:10 (NKJV)

This verse reminds us that we should give our best effort now, while we still have the time and opportunity.

Jemima’s Eventful Return to College After Summer Break

By Ezekiel Polinati

Visakhapatnam dated June 3, 2025
 
Jemima, my eldest daughter studying at CMC Vellore, came home for her summer vacation from May 4 to June 1, 2025. Her time at home was a mix of fun, study reviews, and visits with family and friends. The days flew by quickly, and soon it was time to prepare for her return—final travel purchases, packing, and last-minute arrangements.

Her return coincided with the Day of Pentecost, which we observed with reverence through prayer, worship, and fellowship. After sunset, we dropped her off at the airport to catch her Vizag–Chennai flight. On the way, Jemima was excited—especially about seeing her little niece in Chennai, and she picked up some snacks and chocolates to bring along..

With God’s help, she had a safe flight to Chennai. But in the rush of retrieving her luggage, she mistakenly picked up another passenger’s bag. Without realizing it, she boarded the metro to Anna Nagar East. While resting on the train, she received a call: “Madam, you’ve taken someone else’s baggage. Yours is at Terminal 3. Please return the bag immediately.”

The news was a shock. She panicked and tried to return, but metro staff initially refused. With persistent pleading and help from staff, she was finally allowed back to the airline counter. The passenger whose bag she had taken was stranded with her 10-year-old son. After sincere apologies and grateful exchanges, the situation was resolved by around 9:30 p.m.

Now came the next hurdle—getting to Anna Nagar East. The cab couldn’t enter the terminal area, and being new to this, Jemima didn’t know how to get past the barricades. Thankfully, a kind cab driver parked outside the zone, helped her with her luggage, and safely got her to her sister’s house by 10:30 p.m.

After a short rest, she left at 6:00 a.m. for Vellore. However, the rickshaw drivers at Katpadi Railway Station were, as usual, aggressive and exploitative—demanding Rs. 600 for a trip worth Rs. 150. With no authorities to regulate them and auto unions blocking other services, travelers have little choice.

Despite all the chaos, Jemima reached her hostel by 9:30 a.m. and settled back into her routine. We look forward to seeing her again during the winter break. Until then, we continue to pray for God’s wisdom and protection over her.

"Life’s best lessons are often hidden in the chaos—we learn, grow, and find God’s hand guiding us through every unexpected turn."