Time To Shine Orisel Jiménez

Matthew 6:1-34; 2 Corinthians 9:7; 1 Thessalonians 5:17; Ecclesiates 5:2; 1 Kings 18:26; Luke 17:3-4.

In this chapter, I would say that God wants us to apply seven principles or Christian core values: giving, prayer, forgiveness, fasting, sight, service, and not worrying.

They can each be applied correctly, and in this chapter, Jesus instructs us on how to do it. Giving silently, in another scripture says ungrudgingly; Pray in a quiet place and another scripture says without ceasing; Forgive so that we may be forgiven and later in the scriptures seven times seven; Fast not with a gloomy face; Sight is the lamp of your body; Serve only one Master, God; Worry not about tomorrow, for he supplies.

So, today I encourage you to seek the Lord in all these values. When we do, they will not only enrich our lives, but also bring us closer to the abundant life that God has promised us.

Matthew 5:1-48

In this chapter, Jesus explains the beatitudes, which mean blessings and a series of other norms that benefit everyone.

He talks about how we ought to live as Christians so that others may see Him in us, how to treat others, our enemies and opponents in a law case, how to love our enemies, and how we can be adulterous by just looking lustfully at someone and many other norms that help us grow, mature, and live like Christ in this world.

I encourage you to adhere closely to these norms, for in the end, when we face the Lord, we will be rewarded greatly. Our adherence will not only benefit us but also inspire others to follow in our footsteps and be rewarded, too.

Matthew 4:1-25; James 4:7; Hebrews 2:18 & 4:15; 1 Corinthians 10:13


In the book of Matthew, we learn that Jesus was tempted, just like we are, but He did not sin.

Every day, we face the enemy's temptations, feeling cornered and without escape. But let's remember, we worship the Creator, not the created. The word of our Creator holds immense power, a power that can effectively combat the temptations we face.

Today, I encourage you to learn a verse you can use when tempted. The enemy tempts us time after time with the same sin or thing, but the word of God has the power to battle him.

Matthew 3:1-17; 2 Kings 1:8; Isaiah 40:3; 1 John 1:9

We are tested and tempted every day, and sometimes, this pulls us to sin, but if we confess, as the verse in 1 John says, we will be forgiven and cleansed from all unrighteousness.

John the Baptist, a significant figure in our faith, came to the Jews with a powerful message. He urged them to seek forgiveness and confess their sins, essentially, to redirect their lives. The act of baptism, a tangible symbol of this forgiveness, was a powerful representation of this transformative journey.

As humans, we are tried and tested every day, but Jesus's sacrifice at the cross opened up the upward route to the Father. So, today, I encourage you to ask for forgiveness and repent so that you can be redeemed by the Savior, our Lord Jesus.

Matthew 1:1-23; Micah 5:2; John 1:46; Jeremiah 31:15

Here, God's protection for his son is vividly seen. God tells us to follow his voice and obey, just like Joseph and many other people in the Bible.

When God speaks, it is crucial for us to act. This is not only for our own benefit but also for those whom God has spoken about. Often, God does not immediately reveal the reasons behind his instructions, as he did with Joseph on his command to go to Egypt. However, in due time, we may come to understand the wisdom in his commands.

Just like Abraham and Joseph, in this case, we ought to listen to and follow God's instructions, for we will reap the benefits later on.

Matthew 1:1-25; Mark 2:14; Luke 5:27; Isaiah 7:14

Matthew, also known as Levi in Hebrew, was a tax collector. This chapter details Joseph's lineage, which ultimately leads to Jesus's genealogy. The individuals listed in this genealogy were Jews or followed Jewish teachings, which is why I believe they are included here. The word of God is not merely a collection of teachings, but the very foundation of our existence. It is through His word that we find guidance, and He desires that we align our decisions with His divine wisdom. Nations should adhere to what is effective and beneficial for all citizens. In His word, there are values that can save a country and its citizens.