A New Fruit of the Spirit

November 28, 2025November 13, 2025 / Mark Brady / Leave a comment

I have been open and honest about being grumpy and having a temper. Especially lately, when I wrote the blog post: “Meany Flowers.” I don’t like myself when I act out! When it happens, I probably should be told to go sit in the corner and think about my behavior. My mother was always “hands-on” if you know what I mean. As in, her hand on my bottom, so I don’t know if time-outs really work or not.

I know I am thankful that God is slow to wrath, or else I’m sure I would have been smitten down by now! (Exo. 34:6-7a) With all of that said, I try my best to work on how I react to people, especially April. I know some may categorize my suggestion for a new fruit of the Spirit under the “Self-Control” fruit. But somehow, what I am going to mention is different.

I don’t want to be like one of those annoying ads on Facebook that keep talking “around” something and never really get right to it. For instance, “Doing this every night before going to bed will help you lose 25 pounds in two weeks!” So, without further ado, I propose the new fruit of the Spirit, “Silence.”

With God’s help, I am learning to remain silent when I get upset. And if I think it will help, I will walk away as well. It’s difficult for me because I believe in communication. As in, they should know I don’t agree or I don’t like their behavior. Instead, it seems to be more powerful to look at them and say nothing. And if I walk away, then as soon as I can, go to God in prayer. For me as well as for them. Who knows? There could be some underlying reason why they said or did what they did.

In no way am I trying to admen the scriptures, but in the MBV (Mark Brady Version), I may have to include “Silence” as one of the fruits of the Spirit. I’ll put it in Gutlations 5:22-23 because it just feels right in my gut to respond that way. Thank you, God, for always being there to help me become more like Jesus, and for not taking me out as soon as I act out.

⁶The Lord passed in front of Moses and said, “I am the Lord. The Lord is a God who shows mercy and is kind. The Lord doesn’t become angry quickly. The Lord has great love and faithfulness. ⁷The Lord is kind to thousands of people. The Lord forgives people for wrong and sin and turning against him. Exo. 34:6-7a (ICB)

Post Note: I wrote this blog post in a quiet corner of a restaurant. At least it was until a young woman who looked to have several issues sat near me and proceeded to watch some video on her phone without using headphones. I was trying to write another blog post, but the noise was distracting. I looked over at her twice, but she acted as if she had no idea why I wasn’t happy with her behavior. I kind of laughed to myself as I thought, “Way to go, God. Make me practice what I write.” I packed up my stuff and walked away, and didn’t say anything.

I honestly feel as if I had said something, she would have vented her anger on me, and that would have made me feel worse! Perhaps her acting out was a way of saying, “Please talk to me.” I’m not sure, but in the moment, it was all I could do to operate in the fruit of the Spirit, “Silence.” I may have been able to help her, maybe not, but one thing I do know is I didn’t hurt her.

T.H.E. Eyes

November 25, 2025November 10, 2025 / Mark Brady / Leave a comment

Looking into someone’s eyes is a powerful act that can foster deep connections and understanding. It is a form of nonverbal communication that can reveal hidden truths and emotions, making it a crucial aspect of human interaction. Eye contact can enhance empathy, trust, and social connection, while the absence of eye contact can lead to discomfort and disconnection. By understanding the science behind eye contact, individuals can improve their communication skills and build stronger relationships.. (Source: Copilot search)

I frequent a place of business quite regularly. To the extent that I have gotten to know the three employees who work there. I will use the first letter of each one’s name, but then change the rest.

The first employee is Todd. He greets customers with a big smile, and when you look into his eyes, you see joy, hope, and care. I’ve never inquired, but it seems obvious that he knows and has accepted Jesus Christ into his heart because “love” shines when he assists you. Todd could be angry and bitter because he suffers from a debilitating disease that causes him to use arm crutches to simply walk.

The next one up is Holly. She always looks depressed. Her eyes say, “See me! Notice how smart I think I am.” She tends to lean on or over the counter, and she is highly defensive. Though they don’t say anything, a lot of the customers get frustrated with her. She will stand still and go on and on about stuff that she knows but has no connection with doing her job. Most customers want to run in, do business, and get out quickly.

The third employee is Evelyn. She is very nice and is the manager. It took her a while to open up to me. I think that is due to her race. Her eyes say that she has been disrespected and hurt. She doesn’t smile very often, but when she does, it is warm and genuine. Her eyes reveal that she is tired and would probably be at home knitting for her grandchildren. She has a big heart for people who need a break, like Todd.

Making eye contact takes time and being intentional. I feel Jesus did this. Like when the woman who was caught in adultery was brought to him. When she looked at Jesus, she no doubt saw love, acceptance, concern, and her forgiveness. I’m convinced it was direct eye contact with Jesus that ministered to many.

I had a situation yesterday where, when I tried to speak to a lady and assist her in getting in and out of the sanctuary while the lights were dimmed for the worship, she only looked down. It bothered me, and I almost said something negative in nature to her, but thankfully, the Holy Spirit stopped me.

Later, I saw her while looking over the congregation. I got a sense she was tired, and her heart was heavy. I prayed for her, and that is when I sensed God say to me, “I see her.” After the service was over, I ran into her in the lobby. I asked her if she had a moment. This time, she looked at me and our eyes made contact. I told her what I had sensed, and then I said, “God wanted me to let you know He sees you.” She started crying, and I asked April to hug her, as I prayed over her.

See people, make eye contact, and let them know they are seen.

Matthew 19:26 Looking into their eyes, Jesus replied, “Humanly speaking, no one, because no one can save himself. But what seems impossible to you is never impossible to God!” | The Passion Translation (TPT)

Josephine

November 21, 2025November 8, 2025 / Mark Brady / Leave a comment

This is a true story, but the woman’s real name has been changed.

Josephine was born in a poor country. Her family struggled to make ends meet, especially after her father left them. That is when they moved in with her grandparents, but still, life was difficult.

Josephine’s grandmother was strict, and she demanded a lot out of her. Due to her grandmother’s fears, she was not allowed to leave the house except to attend school. When she heard that a local church handed out cookies and Kool-Aid after the service to the children, she and her sister started attending. She heard about God, his amazing love, and about his Son, Jesus. She accepted Jesus into her life and learned how to live God’s way. It was then that she committed herself to be his servant.

Her family looked down on her because she struggled mentally. They said she was stupid, dumb, and only good for serving them. This hurt her tremendously, but she continued to live with the knowledge that God loved her and that she was special to him.

As Josephine got older, she finished high school and then went to college and got her teaching degree. After teaching elementary students for a few years, she quit to be the full-time caretaker of her grandmother. She started getting up in age, and because she had not married, the neighbors were beginning to call her an “old maid.” She wanted to be married and dated a few men, but found their motives were not pure, and one broke up with her when she said she was committed to God and to doing life his way.

After beginning to think she would never find a man who believed in God the way she did, she gave up and turned it over to God. Three days later, an American man contacted her via a dating website. They began talking, and he soon married her, and they started the process so she could “legally” come to America. She found employment, started attending her husband’s church, and found a group of ladies from her home country that she could meet with regularly.

It didn’t take long for family members back in her country to start contacting her for financial help. Even the so-called “head of the family,” the one the others had considered the wealthiest and the most powerful. She even contacted Josephine and asked for financial assistance, promising to pay it back, but she never did. Even Josephine’s sister asked for money, and she, too, promised to pay it back, but never did.

God had promoted Josephine to a position of wealth and power. Because she had submitted all her ways to Him. She worked hard at her job to become a valued employee and always tithed on her income. She was faithful to God, and God was faithful to her. Several others in her family do not share her commitment, and they don’t submit to God. Who is dumb or stupid now? The one they once looked down on and thought would never amount to much is now using her income to help them with life’s expenses. She is there to provide and lovingly support them. Always giving God the credit for what she has and trying to point them to Him.

Josephine’s story reminds me a lot of the Biblical story of Joseph. God destined him for greatness, where people’s lives would depend on him. His brothers hated him, looked down on him, and wanted him dead. But even through one injustice after the other, he remained faithful to God and His ways. Then God promoted him, and his family eventually honored him.

14 Fools say to themselves, “There is no God.”
They sin and commit evil deeds;
none of them does what is right
²The Lord looks down from heaven^[f] at the human race,
to see if there is anyone who is wise^[h] and seeks God.
³Everyone rejects God;
they are all morally corrupt.
None of them does what is right,
not even one.
⁴All those who behave wickedly^[m] do not understand—
those who devour my people as if they were eating bread,
and do not call out to the Lord.
⁵They are absolutely terrified,
for God defends the godly.
⁶You want to humiliate the oppressed,
even though the Lord is their shelter. Psalms 14:1-6 (NET)

When God promotes you, it is a significant moment that reflects His trust in your abilities and character. Embrace the preparation process, remain faithful, and be open to the unexpected paths that may lead to your divine elevation. Trust in God’s timing and guidance, knowing that He has a purpose for your life that is greater than you can imagine.

Why Do You Go to Church?

November 18, 2025November 18, 2025 / Mark Brady / Leave a comment

“Because it’s Sunday.” “I was raised to.” “It makes my mother happy.” “To show off my latest outfit and Louis Vuitton purse.” “I think God takes attendance.” “So, I can talk to someone who accepts me. Otherwise, I’m lonely.” “To try to enlarge my client list.” “To show my spiritual knowledge.”

The truth is, people attend church for various reasons. And while there, their motives may take advantage of others. Sadly, some individuals will go to church to prey upon the weak, the poor, or the young.

Jesus had a few things to say about why we should attend church and what motivates us to do so. We see in Mark chapter 11 that Jesus went into the temple.

He entered Jerusalem, then entered the Temple. He looked around, taking it all in. But by now it was late, so he went back to Bethany with the Twelve. (Vs. 11) MSG

They arrived at Jerusalem. Immediately on entering the Temple, Jesus started throwing out everyone who had set up shop there, buying and selling. He kicked over the tables of the bankers and the stalls of the pigeon merchants. He didn’t let anyone even carry a basket through the Temple. And then he taught them, quoting this text:

My house was designated a house of prayer for the nations;
You’ve turned it into a hangout for thieves.

The high priests and religion scholars heard what was going on and plotted how they might get rid of him. They panicked, for the entire crowd was carried away by his teaching. (Vs. 15-18) MSG

Then, in chapter 12, Jesus continued teaching:

He continued teaching. “Watch out for the religion scholars. They love to walk around in academic gowns, preening in the radiance of public flattery, basking in prominent positions, sitting at the head table at every church function. And all the time they are exploiting the weak and helpless. The longer their prayers, the worse they get. But they’ll pay for it in the end.” (Vs. 28-40) MSG

I must admit I struggled with that last part, “But they’ll pay for it in the end.” Some versions of the Bible say, “they will receive greater damnation.” I spent some time researching the meaning of Mark 12:40. I came upon a very profound explanation via “Copilot”:

In Mark 12:40, Jesus refers to the greater punishment as a severe condemnation for the scribes who exploit widows’ houses and make long prayers for pretense. This punishment is a reflection of the severity of their actions, which were not only hypocritical but also harmful to the vulnerable. The term “greater damnation” suggests that God holds us accountable for our actions, especially when we misuse our power and influence over others.

To fully grasp the weight of Mark 12:40, we must consider the context in which Jesus spoke, which was during a series of confrontations with religious leaders. Just before this, Jesus had been teaching in the Temple, addressing issues of authority and challenging the hypocrisy he saw among those who thought they were righteous. The backdrop of these confrontations was the Temple itself, a place meant for worship, reverence, and connection with God. Yet, the behaviors displayed by the scribes indicated a deep disconnect from the Temple’s true purpose, which is to serve and care for the community.

Then, from Reverend Michael Johnson:

We can guard against spiritual pride by staying humble and recognizing that all our abilities and accomplishments come from God. We should not boast about our spiritual practices or look down on others who may not be as advanced in their faith journey. It is important to remember that true spiritual growth comes through humility and a servant heart, rather than through seeking recognition or praise from others.

To guard against hypocrisy, we must ensure that our actions align with our beliefs and teachings. We should strive to live out our faith in an authentic and genuine way, rather than putting on a facade for others to see. This involves seeking integrity in all areas of our lives and being honest with ourselves about our motivations and intentions. We can guard against the pitfalls of hypocrisy by constantly examining our hearts and striving for consistency between our words and actions.

Application

Think about the scribes from Mark 12:40—condemned for their hypocrisy. Like overloaded employees forgetting honesty, or parents failing to lead by example, they missed the mark. As followers of Christ, let’s be genuine in our service to God and others. Your every action, your every intention, should mirror Jesus’ values of love, compassion, and integrity. Will you step up and live your faith authentically with me?

Blind Trust

November 14, 2025November 1, 2025 / Mark Brady / Leave a comment

April and I visited a friend of mine today. A dear friend whom I hadn’t seen in several years. He’s now getting up in age, and it seems like he is ready to go home. Heaven, that is, as Earth is not home for those who believe in Jesus Christ. I was feeling that if I wanted to see him alive, then I had better go now.

We had to travel two hours away. In fact, to another state to reach his residence. I pulled out my old GPS from storage. I know my phone has it built in, but I don’t like to tie up my phone. One might say I was going “old school.”

We reached our destination without any problems. In fact, we made it without my GPS screaming at me, “Recalculating!” Not once! We had a very nice visit. My friend is a man of God, and I have always admired him and how he lives his life. He talked about how God has always been there with him, guiding and directing him. The way he talked made me think he had blindly trusted God every day after he accepted Him.. We can’t see God, but at times we can feel his presence.

On the drive home, I asked April if she knew where we were. She said, “No. Not at all.” “Is that scary?” I asked. “No. I trust you.” It made me feel good to be trusted.

I have a sense that “blindly trusting” God makes him feel good as well. He wants us to trust him and to believe that He is taking us to the right destination. It shows that we are confident in our God. Remembering He is strong and mighty if we face any battles. If we live consistently according to God’s commands, then we can be sure we will reach our final destination, heaven

Look, God is my deliverer! I will trust in him and not fear. For the Lord gives me strength and protects me; he has become my deliverer.”Is. 12:2 (NET)

You keep completely safe the people who maintain their faith,
for they trust in you. Is. 26:3 (NET)

Meany Flowers

November 11, 2025November 10, 2025 / Mark Brady / Leave a comment

I’ve mentioned it before, but getting old is hard, and life can be, too. Not being a morning person doesn’t help either. Like the great philosopher once said, “I would like mornings better if they started later!” – Garfield. Then, there are my pet peeves. So, the other day, while driving April to work, the perfect storm happened. All three issues came together.

I hadn’t gotten a good night’s sleep, and when the alarm went off at 4:20 AM, I wasn’t done yet. So, morning came way too early, and I was feeling grumpy. On the way to the car, I saw two lists on the kitchen counter. While driving, April didn’t say a word about them, so I had to ask. Lack of communication is one of my top pet peeves. See where this is going?

I got mad. Really mad! I didn’t understand why I had to ask what the lists were for, and when April’s reply made it seem as if I should have been able to figure it all out. Well, that was like throwing gasoline on a campfire. (Kids, never throw gas on any open flame. Let your father look like an idiot.)

Yep, words came out that should have never been spoken. My behavior and my words were awful. April certainly didn’t deserve that kind of reaction, no matter what. Especially at the beginning of her day. “Hi, I’m Mark, and I’m a Meany.” The crowd responded, “Hi, Mark.”

On the drive back home, I felt horrible. I didn’t want those words to be with April all day. So, before I went back to bed, I texted her an apology and owned up to being a “Meany.” I apologized to God, too, and asked for forgiveness.

Later in the day, while shopping, I bought April some flowers. Pretty ones in her favorite colors. I called them “Meany Flowers.” I know they didn’t make up for my poor, ungodly behavior, but they might help heal the emotional wound I created in her. April can forgive easily, and of course, God is faithful to forgive us of our sins. (1 John 1:9)

Do we, or I, act out more easily knowing that God will forgive us? I think I do at times. I know it’s wrong. It’s as if I trample on His grace and mercy and take it too lightly. Perhaps I am saying to Jesus, “Hey, buddy, thanks for that suffering on the cross stuff, but after all, I deserved it.” The truth is, I don’t deserve his forgiveness, but God so loved the world.

God forgives those who ask for it because He doesn’t want to see anyone die in a sinful state and go to hell. Of course, because He gives us free will, where we spend eternity is up to us.

So, April forgave me, and yes, God forgave me. God knows our hearts, and He knew I was ashamed of what I did and said. I try to be aware of my weaknesses and ask God for help quickly when I start to feel my temper rising. And besides, flowers are expensive!

“Glad You’re Doing Okay”

November 7, 2025October 17, 2025 / Mark Brady / 2 Comments

I received an email the other night from an old friend. I had not seen them in several years. They said they had been thinking about me and wanted to know if I was okay. We exchanged emails and got caught up, somewhat.

I learned a little bit about their life since I last saw them. It was basic information. Their spouse is okay, their child is now nine, they aren’t working, and why. Stuff like that. Sadly, I got the overwhelming impression that they weren’t happy. In fact, they made the statement that their life was boring.

I shared how much I was enjoying my retirement years, that April liked her job, about the new church we started attending this year, and our involvement there. I also shared that I had finished remodeling the house and that we had new furniture that April had picked out, and how she had done a great job. I did mention how I didn’t like getting old, though.

I wasn’t exaggerating or embellishing, but just telling the truth, the whole truth, and nothing but the truth, so help me God. In their final reply, they wrote, “I’m glad you’re doing okay.”

Their comment got me thinking. Was I bragging? Was I trying to impress them? Why was my life doing okay?

I know in my heart that despite body aches and pains, some hiccups in life, some frustrations in our marriage, and working hard to pay off the bills, our life isn’t bad. Why? Because April and I have accepted Jesus Christ and have had our sins forgiven, and know that he is still forgiving us of our new ones. We both read God’s word, the Bible, regularly, and we tithe faithfully. We are committed to our local church and do what we can to help there, which has allowed us to develop relationships with real people who believe like we do. We also do what we can to share God and His amazing love with others as the Holy Spirit leads and gives us boldness to speak up. That is why we are doing okay!

I do realize some may say, “I do all those things and yet my life isn’t okay.” I honestly don’t have an answer as to why that is for some. But I know that April and I both invited God into our lives at a young age and have tried our best to surrender our free will to him. Perhaps that has something to do with it as well. God tends to bless obedience, and I know that faith pleases him.

But without faith it is impossible to please and be satisfactory to Him. For whoever would come near to God must [necessarily] believe that God exists and that He is the rewarder of those who earnestly and diligently seek Him [out]. Heb. 11:6 (AMPC)

For I know the thoughts and plans that I have for you, says the Lord, thoughts and plans for welfare and peace and not for evil, to give you hope in your final outcome. Jer. 29:11 (AMPC)

⁵Lean on, trust in, and be confident in the Lord with all your heart and mind and do not rely on your own insight or understanding. ⁶In all your ways know, recognize, and acknowledge Him, and He will direct and make straight and plain your paths. Prov. 3:5-6 (AMPC)

If there were such a thing as a “recipe” for living a life pleasing to God, then this may be it. April and I enjoy our lives. We feel blessed because we are. It’s like living in a garden, and after all, in the beginning, isn’t that what God intended?

Paying Attention?

November 4, 2025October 3, 2025 / Mark Brady / Leave a comment

It was the trial of the century. A man was being prosecuted and persecuted for violating the Sabbath law by healing on the Sabbath, threatening to destroy the Jewish Temple, practicing sorcery and exorcising people by the power of demons, blasphemy, specifically claiming to be the Son of God, and claiming to be the Messiah.

The trial was taking place at the same time as the Passover holiday, so Jerusalem was at capacity and buzzing. By that time, most had heard of Jesus. They had probably heard his teachings and perhaps even witnessed some of the miracles he performed. They were no doubt moved by his message of love and acceptance. Who knows? Some may have even been fed by him as part of the 5000 men who ate the fish and loaves of bread until they were full.

So, when Jesus was arrested by the rulers of the day, they got scared. A week earlier, they were praising his name, but now they denied they knew him or, at the very least, kept their belief to themselves.

“Those who scream the most and the loudest are usually the ones on the wrong side of Truth!“

Well, as you may know, Jesus was found guilty and sentenced to be crucified on a cross immediately. The rulers of the day, the ones most threatened by the message He shared and lived, wanted him gone, dead, and buried.

Three days later, two men were walking down the road to Emmaus, no doubt discussing the recent events that had taken place concerning Jesus. Perhaps they were trying to see where the other stood on the issues, when out of nowhere, a man they didn’t recognize appeared. It was Jesus. “What are you discussing?” Asked Jesus. “Man! Where have you been the last three days? Stoned? Under a rock?” They were amazed he allegedly didn’t know what was going on. Jesus no doubt wanted to see if they recognized him, and they eventually did.

Would you recognize Jesus if he came alongside you? If you believe in him and who He is, then He is right there next to you. Are you paying attention to what is going on in America right now? At the time of this writing, earlier in the week, we witnessed a man killed for simply, lovingly expressing his opinion. I’m sure he had been threatened or even warned to be quiet, but God had no doubt asked him to be his spokesperson. What happened to “Freedom of Speech?”

As we go forward, we may see more and more persecution in America and around the world against those who stand up and speak Truth. Unfortunately, just like in Jesus’ day, people don’t want to hear the truth. They want to ignore their conscience and live however they want to; that pleases them.

If God asked you to stand up and be noticed for speaking about Him, would you do it? My main character in my novel, “Kill the Preacher Man,” had his life threatened and his family’s if he didn’t stop preaching and being used by God to heal people. He had to face that difficult decision.

I have no idea what the end times will look like exactly, but we need to pay attention, stay in prayer, and have no fear. Like the apostle Paul famously said, “To live is Christ, and to die is gain.” (Phi. 1:21)

If you would like to read about the interaction of Jesus and the two on the road, turn to Luke 24:13-35. I liked the version by J.B. Phillips.