Baroma 5 - Kalanga Bible (KBTP)

Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come The old has gone, the new is here!

When Jesus rose from the dead, He didn’t just conquer sin and death. He also opened the door for us to live in a brand-new identity. We’re not who we used to be. We’ve been transformed, set apart, and empowered to live differently. Yet, in a world that constantly tries to define us, we need to be reminded of who God says we are.

Day 1: A New Creation

2 Corinthians 5:17 (NIV)
“Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!”

Reflection:
You are not your past. You are not your failures, your mistakes, or even your greatest accomplishments. In Christ, you’ve been made new. The resurrection means that your old life is buried, and what rises with Him is a redeemed you.

Day 2: Chosen and Royal

1 Peter 2:9 (NIV)
“But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God’s special possession…”

Reflection:
You’re not invisible. God chose you. You have access to His presence like a royal priest, and He calls you His own. This isn’t based on how good you are, but on how gracious He is.

Day 3: Child of God

John 1:12 (NIV)
“Yet to all who did receive him, to those who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God.”

Reflection:
The resurrection isn’t just an event, it’s the doorway to a relationship. You’re not just a believer, you’re a beloved child. You have a Father who delights in you.

Day 4: God’s Masterpiece

Ephesians 2:10 (NIV)
“For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works…”

Reflection:
You were handcrafted by God, not mass-produced by the world. You were created for purpose, unique, intentional, and beautifully equipped to reflect His glory.

Day 5: Free and Forgiven

Romans 8:1 (NIV)
“Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus.”

Reflection:
Shame is no longer your name. Condemnation no longer fits you. You’ve been forgiven, not because of your perfection, but because of His resurrection. Walk in freedom.

Day 6: Ambassador of Christ

2 Corinthians 5:20 (NIV)
“We are therefore Christ’s ambassadors, as though God were making his appeal through us.”

Reflection:
Your identity comes with a mission. You represent heaven on earth. In how you love, speak, and serve, you’re carrying His message to a world in need.

Day 7: Victorious in Christ

Romans 8:37 (NIV)
“No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us.”

Reflection:
Because He rose, you rise too, not just to survive, but to overcome. You’re not a victim of your circumstances. In Christ, you’re victorious. Always.

Conclusion

You may forget who you are at times. Life may try to define you by your lowest moments. But God sees you through the lens of His Son, risen, redeemed, and radiant. When we know who we are in Christ, we begin to live like it. And when we live like it, the world sees Him in us.

In the same way, the Spirit helps us in our weakness. We do not know what we ought to pray for, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us through wordless groans.

Prayer is a vital aspect of the Christian faith, serving as a direct line of communication with God. The Bible offers numerous verses that can guide and inspire us in our prayer life. Here are seven Bible verses that can help you to pray:

1. Matthew 6:9-13

“This, then, is how you should pray: ‘Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name, your kingdom come, your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Give us today our daily bread. And forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from the evil one.’”

The Lord’s Prayer, provides a perfect model for prayer. It includes elements of praise, submission to God’s will, requests for daily needs, forgiveness, and guidance. Using this structure can help us cover all aspects of our spiritual life in prayer.

2. Philippians 4:6

“Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.”

You are encouraged to turn your worries into prayers. This verse emphasizes importance of approaching God with your needs and anxieties, coupled with a heart of gratitude. This verse reminds you that prayer is a means to relieve anxiety and to trust in God’s provision.

3. 1 Thessalonians 5:16

“Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.”

Praying continually doesn’t mean being on our knees all day but maintaining a constant awareness of God’s presence and turning to Him throughout our day. It encourages an attitude of gratitude and joy in all circumstances.

4. James 5:16

“Therefore confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective.”

James 5:16 emphasizes the power of communal prayer and confession. It encourages us to support each other through prayer and to recognize the importance of a righteous person’s prayer. You are encouraged to seek out prayer partners and to be diligent in your intercessions for others.

5. Romans 8:26

“In the same way, the Spirit helps us in our weakness. We do not know what we ought to pray for, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us through wordless groans.”

You can find comfort in knowing that the Holy Spirit assists you in your prayers, especially when you are uncertain about what to pray for. The Spirit’s intercession ensures that your prayers align with God’s will, providing a deeper connection in your communication with God.

6. Matthew 7:7-8

“Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you. For everyone who asks receives; the one who seeks finds; and to the one who knocks, the door will be opened.”

Jesus assures you that your earnest seeking and asking will not go unanswered. This promise can bolster your confidence in approaching God with your needs and desires, knowing that He listens and responds.

7. 1 John 5:14-15

“This is the confidence we have in approaching God: that if we ask anything according to his will, he hears us. And if we know that he hears us—whatever we ask—we know that we have what we asked of him.”

God is attentive to your prayers. It highlights the importance of aligning your requests with His will, giving you confidence that your prayers are heard and will be answered in accordance with His divine plan.

Conclusion

Prayer is a powerful and essential practice in the Christian life. These seven Bible verses offer guidance, encouragement, and assurance in our prayer journey. By meditating on and incorporating these scriptures into your prayer life, you can deepen your relationship with God, approach Him with confidence, and experience the transformative power of prayer.

Peace be with you! As the Father has sent me, I am sending you.

After the trauma of the crucifixion, the disciples were locked away, afraid, confused, and uncertain about what the future held. But on the evening of that first Easter Sunday, everything changed when Jesus stood among them and said:

“Peace be with you!” — John 20:19 (NIV)

These words were more than a greeting. They were a divine declaration: peace had triumphed over fear, and life had conquered death.

1. Peace That Calms Fear

The disciples were hiding behind locked doors, fearing for their lives. But the presence of Jesus shattered their fear.

“Then the disciples were glad when they saw the Lord.” — John 20:20 (NIV)

The Resurrection reminds us that no matter what we face—uncertainty, loss, danger—Jesus brings peace that surpasses our fear.

2. Peace That Comes from Reconciliation

The cross was not just about suffering; it was about reconciling humanity with God. Jesus’ resurrection is the seal of that reconciliation.

“Therefore, since we have been justified through faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ.” — Romans 5:1 (NIV)

We are no longer enemies of God. We are at peace with Him—fully forgiven and fully accepted.

3. Peace That Dwells Within

Jesus promised a peace that’s not dependent on circumstances but rooted in Him.

“Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.” — John 14:27 (NIV)

This was a promise He fulfilled after rising from the grave. His peace becomes a permanent presence in our hearts.

4. Peace That Guards Our Minds

We are often bombarded with anxious thoughts. But resurrection peace acts like a shield.

“And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” — Philippians 4:7 (NIV)

God’s peace doesn’t always change our situation, but it changes us in the midst of it.

5. Peace That Leads to Purpose

In John 20:21, Jesus repeats, “Peace be with you!” and then says:

“As the Father has sent me, I am sending you.”

Peace isn’t just for comfort—it’s preparation for mission. We are sent out as ambassadors of this peace to a world that desperately needs it.

6. Peace Through the Holy Spirit

Jesus breathed on them and said:

“Receive the Holy Spirit.” — John 20:22 (NIV)

The Holy Spirit becomes the continual source of peace, power, and presence in our lives. It is the Spirit that produces peace as fruit within us:

“But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace…” — Galatians 5:22 (NIV)

7. Peace in a Troubled World

We live in a world that is anything but peaceful. But the resurrection gives us hope beyond this life.

“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 (NIV)

The risen Christ gives us a durable peace—one that holds even in chaos, grief, or conflict.

Final Thoughts

Jesus didn’t wait for perfect conditions to bring peace. He entered a locked room, full of fear, and filled it with His presence. Today, He still does the same.

Resurrection peace is not passive, it’s powerful, purposeful, and personal.

Will you let His peace rule in your heart today?

He canceled the unfavorable record of our debts with its binding rules and did away with it completely by nailing it to the cross. – Colossians 214 (GNT)

Easter is a time of deep reflection and celebration. It reminds us of Jesus’ sacrifice and the incredible gift of salvation we have through His death and resurrection. The cross is more than a symbol—it is the turning point of history, where love overcame sin and life triumphed over death. Let’s explore seven key Bible verses that reveal the power and meaning of the cross.

1. The Cross Shows God’s Love

“But God has shown us how much he loves us—it was while we were still sinners that Christ died for us!” – Romans 5:8 (GNT)

The cross is the greatest proof of God’s love. Jesus didn’t wait for us to be perfect; He gave His life while we were still lost in sin. His love is unconditional, reaching out to everyone, no matter their past.

2. The Cross Brings Forgiveness

“He canceled the unfavorable record of our debts with its binding rules and did away with it completely by nailing it to the cross.” – Colossians 2:14 (GNT)

Because of Jesus, our sins are wiped clean. The cross is where our burdens are lifted, where guilt is removed, and where we receive complete forgiveness. No sin is too great for God’s mercy!

3. The Cross Brings Peace

“And God was pleased for him to make peace by sacrificing his blood on the cross, so that all beings in heaven and on earth would be brought back to God.” – Colossians 1:20 (GNT)

Sin separated us from God, but the cross restored our relationship with Him. Through Jesus’ sacrifice, we are no longer enemies of God but His beloved children.

4. The Cross Gives Us New Life

“Anyone who is joined to Christ is a new being; the old is gone, the new has come.” – 2 Corinthians 5:17 (GNT)

The cross is not the end—it is the beginning of new life. Jesus’ death and resurrection open the door for us to be transformed, leaving behind our past and stepping into a new identity in Christ.

5. The Cross Gives Us Victory

“And on the cross Christ freed himself from the power of the spiritual rulers and authorities; he made a public spectacle of them by leading them as captives in his victory procession.” – Colossians 2:15 (GNT)

What seemed like a defeat was actually a victory! On the cross, Jesus overcame sin, death, and the powers of darkness. Because of Him, we can walk in freedom, knowing that no force of evil can separate us from God.

6. The Cross is a Call to Follow

“Then Jesus said to his disciples, ‘If any of you want to come with me, you must forget yourself, carry your cross, and follow me.'” – Matthew 16:24 (GNT)

Jesus invites us to take up our cross—not to suffer as He did, but to surrender fully to God’s will. True discipleship means letting go of selfish desires and living a life that honors Him.

7. The Cross Gives Us Eternal Life

“For God loved the world so much that he gave his only Son, so that everyone who believes in him may not die but have eternal life.” – John 3:16 (GNT)

The cross is the bridge to eternal life. Jesus’ sacrifice was not just for this world, but for eternity. Through Him, we have the promise of life that never ends—a life in the presence of God forever.

Conclusion: Embracing the Power of the Cross

As we celebrate Easter, let’s not just remember the cross—let’s live in the power of what Jesus accomplished. The cross brings love, forgiveness, peace, new life, victory, and the hope of eternity.

This Easter, may we draw closer to Christ, embracing the fullness of His sacrifice and the joy of His resurrection. He is risen! Hallelujah!

But the angel said to them, ‘Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people

The story of Jesus is the ultimate glow-up, from a newborn in a manger to the Savior of the world. His journey isn’t just inspiring; it’s transformative for everyone who believes. Let’s unpack how Jesus’ humble beginnings and divine mission changed history forever, all rooted in Scripture.

1. A Humble Start

“And she gave birth to her firstborn, a son. She wrapped him in cloths and placed him in a manger, because there was no guest room available for them” (Luke 2:7).

Jesus’ story begins in the most unassuming way imaginable. Born in a small town and placed in a manger because there was no room for His family in the inn, His birth reflected humility and simplicity. The King of Kings arrived without the fanfare one might expect for royalty. Yet, this humble start sets the stage for a life that would redefine greatness, teaching us that our worth isn’t tied to our circumstances but to God’s purpose for our lives.

2. Announced to the Underdogs

“But the angel said to them, ‘Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people’” (Luke 2:10).

Imagine being a shepherd on a quiet night, and suddenly, the sky lights up with angels announcing the birth of the Savior. The first people to hear about Jesus’ birth weren’t rulers or religious leaders but shepherds, ordinary, overlooked individuals. This choice reflects God’s heart for the marginalized and forgotten. By starting with the underdogs, God showed that His kingdom is for everyone, regardless of status or position.

3. Prophesied to Change the World

“For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace” (Isaiah 9:6).

Centuries before Jesus’ birth, the prophet Isaiah foretold His arrival. This verse captures His divine mission: to bring peace, guidance, and hope to a broken world. Jesus wasn’t just another leader; He was the fulfillment of a promise, the embodiment of God’s love, and the answer to humanity’s deepest needs. His glow-up was written in the stars long before He took His first breath.

4. Growing in Wisdom and Favor

“And Jesus grew in wisdom and stature, and in favor with God and man” (Luke 2:52).

Jesus’ childhood wasn’t skipped over in His story. He grew up like us, experiencing the challenges and joys of life. From His time in the temple as a young boy, astounding scholars with His understanding, to His later years preparing for His ministry, Jesus’ growth shows that even the Savior embraced the process of learning and maturing. This reminds us that growth, both spiritual and personal, is a vital part of God’s plan for our lives.

5. The Moment of Revelation

“Then a voice came from heaven, ‘You are my Son, whom I love; with you I am well pleased’” (Mark 1:11).

At His baptism, Jesus’ identity was publicly affirmed by God Himself. The heavens opened, and God declared His love for His Son, marking the beginning of Jesus’ public ministry. This moment wasn’t just about Jesus, it was a revelation for the world, a confirmation that the Messiah had come to fulfill His divine mission. It was a turning point, transitioning Him from preparation to action.

6. Sacrificial Love for All

“But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us” (Romans 5:8).

Jesus’ glow-up wasn’t about personal gain or recognition. It was about love, sacrificial, selfless, and unconditional. His journey led to the cross, where He paid the ultimate price for our sins. This act of love redefined what it means to give, showing that true greatness lies in serving and sacrificing for others. Jesus’ death and resurrection opened the door for everyone to experience God’s grace.

7. Risen and Reigning

“He is not here; he has risen, just as he said. Come and see the place where he lay” (Matthew 28:6).

The ultimate glow-up: Jesus conquered death. His resurrection wasn’t just a miracle; it was the fulfillment of His promise and the foundation of our faith. By rising from the grave, Jesus proved that He has power over sin and death, offering eternal life to all who believe. His reign as the risen Savior continues to transform lives today.

The Bottom Line

Jesus’ journey from the manger to the cross and beyond is a story of transformation, humility, and redemption. His life redefined greatness and brought hope to the world. As we reflect on His glow-up, let’s remember that His story isn’t just history, it’s an invitation to experience a glow-up of our own through faith in Him.

Kunyalala ne shatho

Locked Doors, Open Hearts: 7 Bible Verses on Peace in the Resurrection

1 Ndizo se takalulwamisiwa nge kugalamoyo tina kunyalala ne Ndzimu ndi Jesu Kirisiti, She wedu. 2 Ngekukwe takawana zila ye kungina mu ngoni dze Ndzimu, dzatili mudzili, ngono nge kugalamoyo toshatha nge kugalabgwe kuti towobe ne gobe mu gudzo le Ndzimu! 3 Tjikulu toshatha mu kudziyila kwedu, ngobe toziba kuti kudziyila kozhisa kusimisila. 4 Kusimisila kozhisa mbumbiko yakasima inozhisa kugalabgwe. 5 Ngono kugalabgwe akutotibhatisa shoni ngoti ludo gwe Ndzimu gwakadigwa mu mimoyo yedu nge Meya yakayengemala iyo yatakapiwa.

7 Bible Verses On The Power of The Cross

Easter is a time of deep reflection and celebration. It reminds us of Jesus' sacrifice and the incredible gift of salvation we have through His death and resurrection. The cross is more than a symbol—it is the turning point of history, where love overcame sin and life triumphed over death. Let’s explore seven key Bible verses that reveal the power and meaning of the cross.

From Manger Baby to World Savior: Glow-Up of the Century

6 Takati tisina sekwa tingazwibhatsha, Kirisiti kafila babi nge tjibaka tjakalingisana. 7 Kwakasima kuti nthu afile nlulwami, nenguba pamwe kungathamika kuti mmwe afile nthu una nzhazho. 8

Koga Ndzimu unolakidza ludo gwawo mutili nge kuti takati titji batjinyi Kirisiti katifila! 9 Ndizo se ngwenu takalulwamisiwa nge malopa a Jesu, kukulu kwazo towotjidziwa mu bushongola gwe Ndzimu! 10 Ha kuli kuti takati tili zwita zwe Ndzimu, tikagadzanyiwa ne Ndzimu nge lufu gwe Nkololo wawo, kutjidziwa kwedu ndiye kukulu. 11 Kusi ikoko koga, iswi toshatha mu Ndzimu ndi She Jesu Kirisiti, iye wakatigadzanya nge Ndzimu.

Adamu na Kirisiti

12 Ndizoke, se tjibi tjakazha mu shango nge nthu nng'ompela, lufu gukazhisiwa nge tjibi, lufu gwakaandama nge bathu, ngobe bose bakathama tjibi. 13 Tjibi tjakabe yapo mu shango nlayo usathu ukabigwa, koga pasina nlayo tjibi atjitobagwa. 14 Koga lufu gwakabusa kudwa mu nsi wa Adamu kunoti muna wa Mushe ne muna ibabo bakabe basatjinya sa Adamu, iye wakabe ali ifano tje wakabe ewozha, iye Jesu. 15 Koga tjipo tje Ndzimu atjitonga tjibi. Ha bathu banjinji bakafa nge tjibi tje nthu nng'ompela. Ngoni dze Ndzimu iwulu seni dzinodelukila banji dzinozha nge nthu nng'ompela Jesu Kirisiti. 16 Tjipo tjoleyana ne tjibi tje nthu iwoyo nng'ompela: Ngobe kusumikilisiwa kwakazha nge jinyo ling'ompela, kwakazwala kubong'wa nlandu, koga tjipo tjinozha shule kwe matjinyo manji, tjozhisa kushayiwa nlandu. 17 Ha ngekwe jinyo le nthu nng'ompela lufu gwakabusa nge nthu iwoyo, ibabo banoamutjila ngoni dzakawanda ne tjipo tje ndulamo, banowobusa kukulu seni mu butjilo nge nthu nng'ompela iye Jesu Kirisiti.

18 Ngono se jinyo le nthu nng'ompela lakazhisa kubong'wa nlandu kwe bathu bose, kwakajalobo nshingo we ndulamo we nthu nng'ompela wakazhisila bathu bose kusabong'wa nlandu nenge kubapa bose butjilo. 19 Ngobe se bathu banji bakabe batjinyi nge kusahwa kwe nthu nng'ompela, sa ikokobo, nge kuhwa kwe nthu nng'ompela, bathu bose banowolulwamisiwa.

20 Nlayo wakazha kuwandisa jinyo, koga tjibi pa tjakawanda, ngoni dze Ndzimu dzakawanda kupinda. 21 Ndizo se tjibi tjakabusa mu lufu, ngoni dze Ndzimu dzobusa nge ndulamo dzititungamilila ku butjilo gusingapele ndi Jesu Kirisiti She wedu.