Loving God with All Your Heart

Daily Devotion: Loving God with All Your Heart

Scripture: Deuteronomy 6:4-9 (ESV)

“Hear, O Israel: The LORD our God, the LORD is one. You shall love the LORD your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your might. And these words that I command you today shall be on your heart. You shall teach them diligently to your children, and shall talk of them when you sit in your house, and when you walk by the way, and when you lie down, and when you rise. You shall bind them as a sign on your hand, and they shall be as frontlets between your eyes. You shall write them on the doorposts of your house and on your gates.”

Reflection: A Call to Total Devotion

This passage, known as the Shema, is one of the most foundational declarations of faith in the Bible. It reminds us that our relationship with God is not meant to be compartmentalized—it should touch every area of our lives.

1. God’s Oneness and Sovereignty – The LORD is one, meaning He alone is God. There is no rival to His authority, and He calls for our exclusive devotion.

2. Loving God with Everything – The command to love God with all our heart, soul, and might is a call to complete surrender. It’s not just about feelings but about action—living in obedience and worship in every aspect of life.

3. Teaching and Living the Word – The passage emphasizes that God’s commands should be taught diligently to the next generation. Faith is not just personal; it is meant to be passed down, woven into our daily conversations, and displayed in our homes.

Application: Living Out the Shema

• Keep God at the Center – Start each day by acknowledging God’s presence and sovereignty. Let Him guide your thoughts and actions.

• Integrate Faith into Everyday Life – Talk about God’s Word with your family, in casual conversations, and in your decision-making.

• Pass the Faith On – Whether through teaching children, mentoring others, or simply living by example, let your life be a testimony of God’s truth.

• Mark Your Home with Faith – The Jewish practice of placing mezuzahs on doorposts reflects this verse. While we may not all do that, we can ensure our homes reflect God’s presence through Scripture, prayer, and a Christ-centered atmosphere.

Prayer:

Heavenly Father, You alone are God, and I commit to loving You with all my heart, soul, and strength. Help me to live out my faith daily, to teach and encourage others in Your truth, and to keep Your Word close to my heart. May my home and life be a testimony of Your goodness. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

The Fall: How Authority Was Lost

Lesson Overview

Key Focus:

Understanding how sin caused humanity to forfeit their God-given authority and how Christ restores it.

Lesson Objectives:

By the end of this lesson, participants will:
✅ Understand how Adam and Eve’s sin led to the loss of dominion.
✅ Recognize the immediate and long-term effects of sin on human authority.
✅ Identify how Satan deceives believers into relinquishing their authority today.
✅ Learn how to reclaim their authority in Christ through faith.

Lesson Outline

I. Introduction: The Authority Given to Humanity

Genesis 1:26-28 – God’s original plan was for humanity to have dominion over the earth.
Definition of Authority: The right to exercise power or rule over something.
Adam and Eve’s Role:
- Rulers under God’s sovereignty.
- Given dominion over creation, including the power to subdue the earth.

Discussion Prompt:

What do you think authority looked like before the Fall?
How did Adam and Eve express dominion over creation?

Eighteen with 49 Years of Experience: Its been a Wild Ride

John Hargrove January 2025

Eighteen with 49 Years of Experience: Its been a Wild Ride

I have never felt completely sure of myself. But that never stopped me from trying things anyway. Life has been a mix of near-disasters, small victories, and the occasional moment of brilliance—sometimes all in the same day..

Looking back, I’ve built things, broken things (intentionally and otherwise), raised a family, started companies, rejoined companies, and somehow managed to survive a quarter horse with a mean streak. I’ve designed nuclear security systems, climbed radio towers, and watched Star Trek recover from its worst movie (looking at you, 1979). Through it all, I’ve realized that work was never just work—it was always fun. And somehow, I’m still here, still learning, still trying.

Along the way, I’ve designed electrical control systems for substations and regional grids, implemented one of the first utility fiber control systems (1982), and developed leading-edge cybersecurity systems for power plants and grid transmission.

All that said, I still feel like an 18-year-old with 49 years of experience.

The Best Times of My Life

(In Chronological Order, Because That’s How Time Works)

The Early Years: Learning, Surviving, Horses That Bite, and Learning Things the Hard Way

Age 11

Age 12 – Survived the mile swim. Earned a merit badge for not drowning.

• Age 13 – Earned Eagle Scout rank, proving I could navigate the woods, tie knots, and not set the camp on fire.

• Age 14 – Discovered Newton’s Laws the hard way by losing control of my quarter horse while riding bareback. As I rotated around to her neck, she decided to bite me while at full gallop—which seems like an unfair move in hindsight.

• Learned drafting from my grandfather, setting the stage for a lifelong appreciation of good engineering (and good erasers).

• Spent summers on the Neches River at my dad’s camp, developing a deep love for nature and mosquito repellant.

Graduated Buna ISD

The Family Years: Running From Kids, Finding Purpose, and Speaking in Public

• Pretended to run from my 3-year-old son, because making toddlers think they are faster than you is part of the Dad Code.

• Thirty-nine years later, repeated this with my grand-nephews and niece (ages 4 and up). Kids never get tired. I do.

• Got my BSEE from Lamar University (1981)—a degree that would later justify many of my wildest projects.

• Became a telecommunications engineer because my boss discovered I knew Morse code.

• Married Leisa, a moment of sheer brilliance on my part.

We had a Son – Joshua Blake Hargrove – a gift from God. 1984-2002

• Age 42 – Had the life-changing realization that Jesus loves me, this I know. That moment when you TRULY know it, and realize you were ignorant before. This alone saved me from what was to come in less than two years.

• 1994 – My wife twisted my arm into attending Toastmasters to learn public speaking. I physically got sick before my first talk. Turns out, you don’t actually die from it.

The Career Years: Work Was Never Just Work

• Started an internet company—because apparently, I like a challenge. During a pandemic…

• 1993-1995 Redesigned and oversaw a replacement and rebuild of a transcontinental microwave system from Houston to NYC, proving that yes, sometimes the right people DO get put in charge.

• 2010-2019 Designed cybersecurity systems for power plants and the grid—because keeping the lights on is kind of important.

• Put in one of the first utility fiber control systems in 1982, back when fiber optics were considered risky and cutting-edge.

• 2002 onward – Led Bible studies, where I saw the Word come alive in me and others.

The “Geezer Paradox” Years: Dancing, Trek, and Perspective

• Age 64 – Learned that I can dance like no one is watching and, more importantly, not care if anyone is. Look up the “Geezer Paradox”—it’s real.

• The Worst Times of My Life (Because Life Isn’t Always Fun and Star Trek)

• 2002 – The death of our son, Joshua. Until then, I did not know pain. Afterward, grief became a constant companion—one that never leaves, but you learn to live with.

• 1983 – The passing of my maternal grandfather at age 26. The first close relative I lost. I didn’t know how to process it.

• 2013 – The passing of my father at 85. He had a full life, but I wasn’t ready to let him go.

Final Thoughts: What I’ve Learned

No one ever feels truly complete. I’ve done a lot—some impressive, some just weird—but in the end, I’m just a guy who tried his best and constantly fell short in his own eyes. I’ve been a legal adult since 1976, but some days I still feel like a kid. Some days I act like one.

Sometimes I’m proud of what I do, sometimes I’m not.

But whether good or not-so-good, I rinse and repeat. Adjust. Keep going.

Looking back, I’ve been privileged to lead in both professional and personal areas. And yet, I still feel like I have so much left to do.

Family is huge, they made me who I am.

Each day, I try to be better and not be a burden to others.

I think I may finally be succeeding at life.

Final Words of Wisdom:

Have a great life. If I can, you can too.

Joshua painted this for me in 1999 The signature says from Paco to Dad.

My Maternal Grandfather when he was in his 20’s

Joshua Blake Hargrove

The Creation Mandate – Dominion and Stewardship

Lesson 1: The Creation Mandate – Dominion and Stewardship

Key Focus: God’s original design for humanity to rule and reign in His authority.

Scripture References:

Genesis 1:26-28 – God’s mandate for humanity to have dominion.
Psalm 8:4-6 – Humanity’s honored position in God’s creation.
Luke 10:19 – Authority given to believers over the enemy.

Discussion Points:

What does it mean to be created in God’s image regarding authority?
How was dominion entrusted to humanity as stewards of creation?
How does this authority apply to believers today?

Application:

Reflect on areas where you are called to exercise godly dominion (family, workplace, ministry).
Pray for wisdom in stewarding the authority God has given you.

The Scripture Way of Salvation by John Wesley

Sermon Number Sermon 43

Sermon Title The Scripture Way of Salvation

Sermon Scripture “Ye are saved through faith.” Ephesians 2:8.

Many have described religion as intricate and hard to understand, whether among heathens or even some Christians of great repute. However, the true religion of Jesus Christ is plain and simple when taken in its original form as described in Scripture. It is suited to the limited understanding of humanity in its current state.
The goal of true religion is salvation, and the means to attain it is faith. These two words encapsulate the essence of the Bible.

Salvation, as referred to in this text, is not merely eternal happiness or entrance into heaven. It is not something that happens solely after death. The Apostle Paul’s words, “Ye are saved,” indicate a present reality—a blessing that believers already possess.
Salvation extends from the first dawning of God’s grace to its ultimate fulfillment in glory. It includes all that is wrought in the soul by God’s prevenient grace:
- The convictions and desires for God that prepare the heart.
- The enlightenment provided by the Spirit to all, urging humanity toward justice, mercy, and humility.

Cleaning

Daily Devotion: A Clean Heart, Mind, and Soul

Scripture Reading:

2 Corinthians 3:18

“But we all, with unveiled face, beholding as in a mirror the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into the same image from glory to glory, just as from the Lord, the Spirit.”

1 Peter 4:14

“If you are reviled for the name of Christ, you are blessed, because the Spirit of glory and of God rests on you.”

Reflection:

God’s desire for His children is transformation—a journey of being made into His image from glory to glory. This transformation requires more than outward behavior; it demands a clean heart, a renewed mind, and a soul wholly surrendered to Him.

In 2 Corinthians 3:18, Paul speaks of this transformation as a work of the Spirit. Like a mirror reflecting God’s glory, our lives are to shine with His purity and light. This process is ongoing and requires intentional effort: daily reflection, repentance, and submission to God’s refining work.

Peter reminds us in 1 Peter 4:14 that the Spirit of glory rests on us, even in trials. When we face challenges, criticisms, or temptations, we are blessed if we endure them with Christ at the center. Keeping our hearts, minds, and souls clean allows the Spirit to dwell fully in us, empowering us to shine His light even in difficult times.

Maintaining a clean heart is not about perfection but about surrender. It means asking daily for forgiveness where we fall short, meditating on His Word to renew our minds, and guarding our souls against anything that distracts or defiles us.

Steps for Today:

1. Examine Your Heart: Take a moment in prayer to ask God to search your heart (Psalm 139:23-24). Confess any sin, bitterness, or distractions that may cloud your reflection of His glory.

2. Renew Your Mind: Meditate on Scripture, allowing God’s Word to shape your thoughts and actions. Choose to focus on what is true, honorable, and pure (Philippians 4:8).

3. Guard Your Soul: Protect your time with God. Be intentional in eliminating distractions or influences that lead you away from His presence.

4. Be Encouraged in Trials: When you face challenges or criticism, remember Peter’s encouragement—God’s Spirit of glory rests on you. He is transforming you, even in hardship, to reflect His image.

Prayer:

Heavenly Father, I come to You today with an open and humble heart. Search me and know me, Lord. Cleanse my heart of anything that is not pleasing to You. Renew my mind with Your truth and guard my soul from the distractions of this world. May I reflect Your glory in all I do and be transformed into Your image day by day. Help me to find joy and strength even in trials, knowing that Your Spirit of glory rests on me. Thank You for the privilege of being Your child. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Challenge:

Throughout the day, practice being mindful of God’s presence. Take moments to pause, reflect, and invite Him to cleanse your heart, renew your mind, and strengthen your soul. Keep your focus on the truth that you are being transformed into His image, moment by moment.

Be still

Be Still and Know I Am God

Scripture Focus: “Be still, and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth.” – Psalm 46:10 (NIV)

Reflection

In a world filled with noise, busyness, and the constant demand for our attention, the call to “be still” can feel like an impossible task. Yet, this is God’s gentle command to us. To “be still” does not simply mean to cease physical activity but to quiet our hearts and minds, surrendering to God’s presence and sovereignty.

Psalm 46 paints a picture of chaos—nations in uproar, mountains falling into the sea, and the earth trembling. Yet in the midst of it, God invites us to stop striving and trust in Him. He reminds us of who He is: the Creator, the Sustainer, the one who holds all things together.

Being still is an act of faith. It’s choosing to pause and acknowledge that God is in control, even when life feels out of control. It’s trusting that His power is greater than our problems, His wisdom is greater than our confusion, and His peace surpasses all understanding.

Application

1. Pause and Reflect

Take a moment today to intentionally be still before God. Turn off distractions and sit in silence, meditating on His power and presence.

2. Surrender Your Struggles

Identify areas in your life where you are striving in your own strength. Offer these burdens to God in prayer, trusting Him to work on your behalf.

3. Remember His Promises

Reflect on how God has been faithful in the past. Let these reminders strengthen your confidence in His ability to handle the present and the future.

Prayer

Lord, help me to quiet my heart and focus on You. In the midst of life’s storms, remind me of Your sovereignty and peace. Teach me to trust You fully and to rest in the assurance that You are God. Be exalted in my life, Lord, and in all the earth. Amen.

Challenge for the Day

Find a quiet place where you can spend 10 minutes meditating on this verse. Journal what God speaks to your heart during this time of stillness.

Critical Perspectives on Governance, Media, and Policy: A 2025 Briefing”

1. Current Political Landscape and Criticism

“As Joe & Co. Leave”: President Biden’s administration is criticized for actions in its closing days, including drilling bans, clemency orders, and high expenditures such as student loan relief and funding under the CHIPS Act. The piece portrays the administration as prioritizing political gains over national interests.
“Biden Senior Moments in Review”: Highlights media skepticism and public concerns about Biden’s cognitive abilities, showcasing incidents as part of a broader critique of his leadership.

2. Law Enforcement and Criminal Justice

“Broken Windows Policing”: Advocates for the continued use of Broken Windows theory, arguing that maintaining order reduces crime. Critics suggest it heightens tensions in minority communities, but proponents highlight its historical effectiveness in NYC.
“Trump Sentencing Update”: Judge Juan Merchan scheduled Trump’s sentencing on the “hush money” case, asserting legal grounds despite political implications. The sentencing underscores tensions in judicial processes involving prominent figures.

3. Media Trust and Accountability

“New Year Offers Media Redemption”: Calls for legacy media to address its role in downplaying President Biden’s alleged cognitive decline and other issues. The commentary urges transparency and accountability to restore public trust.

4. Cultural and Ideological Dynamics

“Say Goodbye to the ‘Islamophobia’ Hoax”: Argues against dismissing threats tied to extremist ideologies under the guise of Islamophobia, citing global and domestic incidents as examples. The piece calls for a more critical examination of related policies and narratives.
“How Group Quotas Transformed the CIA”: Discusses how diversity initiatives within the CIA impacted its operational focus and efficiency. The critique questions whether such policies compromise effectiveness in national security

Contrast: Rule of Law and Legal Pursuit of Trump vs. Biden Family

Donald Trump

Legal Pursuit: Trump faces a high-profile legal case involving “hush money” payments. Judge Merchan’s sentencing, though politically charged, emphasizes adherence to judicial protocols. Despite criticisms of judicial bias, the legal process has been transparent, with detailed court proceedings and public awareness.
Implications: Trump’s legal challenges underscore tensions between the judiciary’s independence and perceptions of partisan motivations. Critics argue the cases reflect the weaponization of legal mechanisms for political purposes.

Biden Family

Hunter Biden: Allegations of influence-peddling and financial improprieties involving Hunter Biden have raised questions about accountability. Despite evidence from whistleblowers and released documents, investigations have been marked by delays and claims of political interference.
Joe Biden’s Role: Photos and emails suggest Joe Biden’s involvement in Hunter’s business dealings, contradicting his public denials. A last-minute presidential pardon for Hunter added to perceptions of shielding family interests.
Judicial Process: Critics argue that investigations into the Biden family have lacked transparency and urgency, with media and institutional actors accused of suppressing evidence to protect political interests.

Key Contrasts

Transparency:
- Trump’s legal cases have been conducted publicly, with rulings and processes scrutinized by the media.
- Biden family investigations have faced accusations of concealment, delayed releases of evidence, and lack of accountability.
Judicial Independence:
- Trump’s cases have highlighted the judiciary’s independence but also exposed vulnerabilities to perceptions of partisanship.
- Biden-related cases reflect concerns over political influence undermining the rule of law.
Media Coverage:
- Trump: Extensive media focus has amplified the visibility of legal proceedings.
- Biden: Media and institutional reluctance to investigate allegations fully has led to accusations of bias and selective reporting.
Public Perception:
- Trump’s legal battles reinforce narratives of a polarized judicial system, with supporters viewing him as a victim of political prosecution.
- Biden family controversies fuel skepticism about equal application of the law, with critics highlighting double standards.

Conclusion

The contrasting legal approaches toward Trump and the Biden family reflect broader challenges in balancing the rule of law with political and institutional pressures. Transparency and consistent application of justice are essential to maintain public trust in the legal system.

Evidence suggests that the CIA, FBI, and DOJ have faced allegations of withholding or delaying evidence that, if applied to an average U.S. citizen, could have led to significant legal jeopardy. These allegations revolve primarily around high-profile cases such as those involving the Biden family, Hunter Biden’s laptop, and other politically sensitive matters. Here’s a breakdown of the issues:

Instances of Alleged Evidence Withholding or Delays

Hunter Biden Laptop:
- The FBI reportedly had possession of Hunter Biden’s laptop as early as 2019 but delayed acting on its contents, which included evidence of potential influence-peddling, tax evasion, and other crimes.
- Whistleblowers from the IRS alleged that political interference obstructed investigations into Hunter Biden’s financial dealings.
- Evidence that could implicate Joe Biden in influence-peddling, such as emails and photos, was withheld until after the 2024 election, reducing its potential political impact.
Russian Disinformation Allegations:
- The Hunter Biden laptop story was labeled as Russian disinformation by former intelligence officials during the 2020 presidential election, despite the absence of evidence to substantiate these claims. This move suppressed the story’s credibility and limited public scrutiny.
Delay in Releasing Key Evidence:
- The National Archives delayed the release of photos showing Joe Biden meeting with Hunter Biden’s foreign business partners, allegedly due to legal and bureaucratic delays orchestrated by Biden’s and Obama’s legal teams.
General Perception of Preferential Treatment:
- Allegations persist that the FBI and DOJ acted cautiously to avoid legal jeopardy for politically powerful individuals, particularly in the Biden family case. For example, whistleblower testimonies suggest evidence that could have expedited charges was deliberately overlooked.

Legal Jeopardy for Ordinary Citizens

If the same evidence of financial misconduct, influence-peddling, or tax evasion had been uncovered in cases involving ordinary U.S. citizens:

Immediate Legal Action: Agencies would likely have acted swiftly, leading to indictments, asset seizures, and potential incarceration.
Lack of Institutional Protection: Ordinary citizens lack the political influence, resources, and legal protections available to high-profile individuals, making them more vulnerable to aggressive legal enforcement.
Transparency and Accountability: Public pressure and media attention often result in different standards of accountability, where ordinary citizens face a more rigid application of the law.

Conclusion

The allegations that the CIA, FBI, and DOJ withheld or delayed evidence to shield politically influential individuals highlight a troubling disparity in the application of justice. If such evidence involved an ordinary citizen, it is likely that legal consequences would have been far swifter and harsher. These incidents raise concerns about institutional impartiality and the principle of equal justice under the law. Ensuring transparency and accountability in these institutions is critical to maintaining public trust.

Prayer of Repentance

Father, I humbly confess that I have neglected my relationship with You and allowed sin to take root in my life. I repent of my ways and ask for Your forgiveness. Create in me a clean heart and renew a steadfast spirit within me. Help me turn away from all that separates me from You, and guide me to live in obedience and humility.

The Promise of His Coming

As we celebrate Christmas, we often focus on the beauty of Christ’s first coming—the baby born in a manger, the angels announcing peace, and the shepherds marveling at the Savior’s birth. Yet, Scripture reminds us that Christmas is not just about remembering His arrival in Bethlehem; it is also a time to anticipate His glorious return.

The Question of His Coming

In 2 Peter 3:4, scoffers mockingly ask, “Where is the promise of His coming?” They observe the apparent constancy of the world and doubt that God will intervene. This doubt is not new. Humanity has always struggled to trust in God’s timing. Yet, Peter encourages us to remember that God’s promises are sure, even if they seem delayed from our perspective. Just as the prophets foretold Christ’s first coming, His second coming is just as certain.

The Prophecy of His Judgment

In Jude 1:14-15, we see a prophecy from Enoch about the Lord returning with “many thousands of His holy ones” to execute judgment on the ungodly. This passage is a sobering reminder of the dual reality of Christ’s return: for the faithful, it is a day of vindication and joy, but for the ungodly, it will be a day of reckoning. The baby who came to bring peace and salvation will one day come as the righteous Judge, fulfilling every promise of justice.

The Glory of His Return

Revelation 1:7 paints a majestic picture: “Behold, He is coming with the clouds, and every eye will see Him.” Unlike His first coming, which was humble and hidden from the world, His second coming will be unmistakable. Every tribe and nation will witness His glory, and even those who rejected Him will mourn as they see the fulfillment of what they had denied.

Living in Expectation

The promise of Christ’s return transforms how we live now. Christmas is not only a celebration of what God has done but also a call to live in preparation for what He will do. Just as the faithful waited centuries for the Messiah’s birth, we now wait for His return. But this waiting is not passive; it is active, marked by faith, obedience, and hope.

A Christmas Call

This Christmas, let us not forget the full story of Christ. He came as a child to save us, but He will return as a King to reign forever. Let the joy of His first coming stir within us a longing for His return. May we prepare our hearts, share His gospel, and live in such a way that we are found ready when He comes again.

Prayer:

Heavenly Father, as we celebrate the birth of Your Son, we also look forward to His glorious return. Thank You for the promises of Scripture that remind us of Your faithfulness. Help us to live with expectant hope, preparing our hearts for the day when Christ will return in glory. May our lives reflect Your light and truth until that day. In Jesus’ name, Amen.