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<figure id="figure-9nrjjxv5vfm1rq5dgk"><img id="9nrjjxv5vfm1rq5dgk" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/d2fA30mqeARXlFJXiDAtmgRtHKmGfm0D7qO7NHApEb9jcnPD9OARO9y28gwkaoHS.jpg" alt="people laughing and talking outside during daytime" title="people laughing and talking outside during daytime" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-sm md:rounded-md lg:rounded-lg" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/d2fA30mqeARXlFJXiDAtmgRtHKmGfm0D7qO7NHApEb9jcnPD9OARO9y28gwkaoHS.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure>Dear Reader,Today I've been diving deep into Romans 4:17, and I can't stop thinking about Abraham's incredible faith. The verse talks about "the God who calls things not being as being," and it's really challenging my understanding of who God is and what He's capable of.Let me break it down a bit. This verse is saying that the God Abraham believed in could speak things into existence that didn't even exist yet. It's mind-blowing when you really think about it. We're not talking about God rearranging existing matter or working within the laws of nature as we understand them. No, this is about God creating something out of absolutely nothing.I found myself imagining Abraham's situation. Here he was, well past the age when having children was possible, and God promises him a son. It wasn't just unlikely - it was impossible by human standards. Yet God looked at Abraham and Sarah's barren situation and essentially said, "Let there be Isaac!" And against all odds, Isaac came into being.This concept of calling things that are not as though they were is really hitting me hard today. How often do I look at situations in my life and declare them hopeless? How many times have I given up on dreams or promises because they seemed impossible? Abraham's story is challenging me to see things differently.I'm also struck by the second part of the verse, which describes God as the one "who gives life to the dead." This isn't just about physical death, I think. It's about all the "dead" situations in our lives - failed relationships, lost opportunities, unfulfilled dreams. God has the power to breathe life into all of these.The story gets even more intense when you consider what happened later with Isaac. God asked Abraham to sacrifice his son - the very son He had miraculously provided. And Abraham obeyed! The book of Hebrews tells us that Abraham believed God could even raise Isaac from the dead. That's a level of trust I can hardly fathom.As I sit here writing, I'm trying to apply this to my own life. Where am I limiting God? Where do I need to trust Him to bring life to seemingly dead situations? It's scary to be honest. Trusting God this much means letting go of control, and that's not easy for me.I'm thinking about my career goals that seem out of reach, that relationship that seems beyond repair, those habits I've tried and failed to change so many times. What if I approached these with Abraham-like faith? What if I truly believed that God could speak new realities into existence in these areas?It's not just about positive thinking or wishful dreaming. This is about aligning my beliefs with the true nature of God - a God who creates out of nothing and who has power over death itself.I'm reminded of other stories in the Bible that demonstrate this same principle. The creation account in Genesis, where God spoke the universe into existence. The valley of dry bones in Ezekiel, where God breathed life into a hopeless situation. The resurrection of Jesus, the ultimate defeat of death.As I go about my day, I want to keep this perspective at the forefront of my mind. I serve a God of impossible possibilities. How would my prayers change if I really believed this? How would my actions change? How would I approach challenges differently?I'm feeling both challenged and excited. It's a bit overwhelming to think about trusting God this much, but it's also incredibly freeing. If God can do the impossible, then I don't have to have all the answers. I don't have to rely solely on my own strength or wisdom.Tomorrow, I want to start my day by identifying areas where I've given up hope. I'm going to write them down and then pray over them, asking God to help me see them through His eyes - the eyes of the God who calls things not being as being.This journey of faith is ongoing, and I know I'll have moments of doubt. But I'm grateful for this reminder of who God really is. May I live like I truly believe in the God of Abraham - the God who creates out of nothing and gives life to the dead.Here's to embracing a bigger view of God and a bolder faith.Until next time,Chaplain Mark

Nothing to See Here: Just God's Cosmic 'Abracadabra

<figure id="figure-qloxhcddwm1rpyl8x" class=""><img id="qloxhcddwm1rpyl8x" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/21aGkcFNszpIaMlCRbL4SWwKWjtX1Z0Bq7z4VtRMB6b0XTjYZ4eyKcdwsbo1mThw.jpg" alt="a couple of people sitting at a table with cups of coffee" title="a couple of people sitting at a table with cups of coffee" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-sm md:rounded-md lg:rounded-lg" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/21aGkcFNszpIaMlCRbL4SWwKWjtX1Z0Bq7z4VtRMB6b0XTjYZ4eyKcdwsbo1mThw.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure>Dear Reader,Today has been a day of deep reflection. I found myself reading Romans 5:1-2, and I've spent an hour turning these verses over in my mind. It's amazing how a familiar passage can suddenly reveal new depths.The phrase that really caught my attention was "peace toward God." I've read it countless times before, but today it hit differently. It's not just about having "peace with God," as if everything is settled and done. Instead, it's this idea of moving towards God, like I'm on a journey with Him as my destination.This got me thinking about my own faith journey. Sometimes I get frustrated with myself, feeling like I should have it all figured out by now. But this perspective is so freeing. It's okay that I'm still on the way. I'm not perfect, and I don't have all the answers, but I'm moving in the right direction. That's what matters.I had this vivid image come to mind while meditating on these verses. I saw justification by faith as this beautiful, ornate gate. As I passed through it, I found myself standing at the edge of this vast, sunlit field. This field, I realized, represents God's grace. It's so much bigger and more beautiful than I ever imagined.But here's the thing - just walking through that gate isn't enough. Now I actually need to explore this field, to walk through it and experience it. And the way to do that, according to this passage, is through peace.This idea of peace as a guide for my journey is really challenging me. I started thinking about the decisions I've made recently. That job offer I accepted last month - did I really feel at peace about it, or did I just jump at the opportunity because it seemed good on paper? And what about that argument I had with Mom last week? Was I walking in peace then, or was I letting my frustration guide my words?I'm realizing that I often push forward with things even when I feel unsettled about them. Sometimes it's because I'm afraid of missing out, or because I think I know better. But what if that lack of peace is actually God's way of steering me? What if, by ignoring it, I'm missing out on the path He has for me?This passage presents grace and peace in such an interesting way. Grace is like this solid foundation I'm standing on. It's God's unearned favor, this constant reminder that I'm loved and accepted not because of what I do, but because of who God is. It's what keeps me secure even when I mess up.But peace - peace is different. Peace is like this internal compass, always pointing me in the right direction. When I'm about to make a decision, peace (or the lack of it) is there to guide me. It's not just about feeling good; it's about alignment with God's will.You know, this whole perspective is really transforming how I see my faith. It's not static. It's not just about that decision I made to follow Jesus when I was 15. It's this vibrant, daily walk with God. Every day, I need to check in - am I standing in grace? Am I walking in peace?Some questions I want to ponder more deeply:1. &nbsp; How can I be more attuned to God's peace in my daily decisions? I do spend time in his word and in prayer and meditation.2. &nbsp; What does it look like for me to "stand in grace" when facing challenges? When I messed up last week, did I allow myself to stand in God's grace, or did I let shame and self-criticism take over?3. &nbsp; Are there areas in my life where I'm moving forward without peace? I'm thinking particularly about my relationship with Becky. When things get tense, and I'm not sure I feel at peace about where we're heading. At that time it's time to have an honest conversation and reevaluate things and get on the same page.4. &nbsp; How can I cultivate a greater awareness of this "field of enjoyment" that God has given me access to? Am I taking time to really appreciate the blessings in my life, or am I too focused on the next goal, the next achievement?Before I close, I want to write out a prayer:Lord, thank You for Your amazing grace that gives me a secure place to stand. Help me to root myself deeply in that grace, never taking it for granted, but also never doubting its sufficiency. Guide my steps, Lord. Help me to be sensitive to Your peace, to recognize it as Your voice steering me in the right direction. When I'm tempted to rush ahead or make decisions based on fear or selfish ambition, remind me to pause and seek Your peace.Help me to see my faith journey as this beautiful exploration of the field of Your grace. Let me not be content with just standing inside the gate, but give me the courage to walk further, to discover more of You each day. In the challenges I face - at work, in my relationships, in my personal growth - help me to stand firm in Your grace and to consistently choose the path of peace.Thank You for Your patience with me as I learn and grow. Thank You for the assurance that even though I'm still on the journey, I'm moving in the right direction - toward You. In Jesus' name, Amen.I feel like I've only scratched the surface of what these verses have to offer. I think I'll come back to this passage again soon - there's so much here to unpack, and I have a feeling that God will reveal even more as I continue to meditate on it.Until next timeChaplain Mark

My Peaceful Stroll Through Romans 5:1-2

<figure id="figure-z2ux0u3xdm1rm5cdz"><img id="z2ux0u3xdm1rm5cdz" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/1aJkMiUNlBv07QMMUNYfJTcxQnIZWq0SSumsZfVkdpe2xPUfVGz2DqZuXbbj8xS6.jpg" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-sm md:rounded-md lg:rounded-lg" style="aspect-ratio: 1/1; object-position: 15% 15%;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="1:1" data-caption="Baptism" data-positionX="15%" data-positionY="15%" data-fullWidth="false"/><figcaption class="body-normal text-gray-500 mt-2">Baptism</figcaption></figure>Dear Reader,This week at my church (Frontline GR), We did baptism’s since then I've been reflecting on the concept of baptism and its profound meaning in my spiritual journey. Two Bible verses have been in my thoughts:"For just as in Adam all die, so also in Christ all will be made alive." - 1 Corinthians 15:22 "Or are you ignorant that all of us who have been baptized into Christ Jesus have been baptized into His death?" - Romans 6:3It struck me how significant baptism truly is. It's not just some religious ritual or tradition - it's a transformative experience that moves us from our old life in Adam to our new life in Christ.I feel a bit frustrated when I think about how often Christians argue over the external details of baptism - the type of water, the method used. It seems we're missing the point entirely. Baptism is about being put into Christ and identifying with His death. It's about a profound spiritual change.When I was baptized, did I fully grasp this? I'm not sure. But now I see it as the moment I was transferred from being part of Adam's fallen humanity to being part of Christ's redeemed community. It's mind-boggling to think about - through baptism, I've been identified with Christ in His death and resurrection.I wonder how this truth should impact my daily life. If I'm no longer in Adam but absolutely in Christ, how should that change the way I think, act, and relate to others? It's something I need to ponder more.I'm grateful for this realization about baptism. It's not about perpetuating a ritual, but about experiencing a genuine, life-altering connection with Christ. I hope I can hold onto this truth and let it shape my faith journey moving forward.Note to self: Maybe I should share these thoughts with my small group. It could lead to an interesting discussion about our baptism experiences and what they mean to us now.Until next timeChaplain Mark

Baptism: The Ultimate Adam-to-Christ Makeover

<figure id="figure-3xezxnvksm1qio509"><img id="3xezxnvksm1qio509" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/170DWEPZty6peL9aKXZNc8VcD7ChiMfm21DisHZ7qyT7rYQZvdULT3RcVL66fAfx.jpg" alt="photo of brown church" title="photo of brown church" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-sm md:rounded-md lg:rounded-lg" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/170DWEPZty6peL9aKXZNc8VcD7ChiMfm21DisHZ7qyT7rYQZvdULT3RcVL66fAfx.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure>Dear reader, &nbsp; Had a mind-bending Bible study session today. Dove into Romans 5:19 and 1 Corinthians 15:45, 47. These passages paint a picture I've never seen before - it's like all of humanity is divided into just two camps. &nbsp; On one side, there's Adam. Not just the guy from Eden, but he represents all of us in our natural state. Created by God, sure, but missing that divine spark. It's like we're all born into "Team Adam" by default. &nbsp; Then there's Christ. The game-changer. He's called the "last Adam," which is wild to think about. It's not just that He's better than Adam; He's a whole new prototype of humanity. God and man fused together in a way that rewrites the rules. &nbsp; This idea is messing with my head in the best way possible. It's making me rethink everything I thought I knew about human nature and potential. Where do I fit in this cosmic drama? Am I still playing for Team Adam, or have I switched jerseys to Team Christ? &nbsp; The verse that's really sticking with me is Romans 5:19. It's like Adam and Christ are these cosmic representatives, and their actions ripple out to affect all of us. Adam's misstep made us all sinners, but Christ's obedience offers us a shot at true righteousness. It's not about trying harder to be good; it's about tapping into a whole new source of life. &nbsp; I'm seeing my daily interactions differently now. When I get annoyed at the slow cashier or feel the urge to gossip, is that my "Adam nature" showing? And those moments when I feel a surge of compassion or find the strength to forgive - is that a glimpse of the "Christ nature"? &nbsp; This isn't just theological navel-gazing. It's a whole new lens to view life through. I want to dig deeper into this. Maybe I'll start a study group at church to unpack this idea. Or keep a "Two Adams" journal to track moments when I feel pulled between these two natures. &nbsp; For now, I'm sitting with this quote: "The first man is out of the earth, earthy; the second man is out of heaven." It's like we have the potential to be more than just advanced animals. We could be walking, talking connections between heaven and earth. &nbsp; Tomorrow's challenge: Try to approach each interaction as if I'm representing "Team Christ" rather than "Team Adam." This could change everything. &nbsp; Until next time &nbsp; Chaplain Mark

Adam 2.0: Upgrading My Spiritual Operating System

<figure id="figure-5lyargemerm1qie5q7"><img id="5lyargemerm1qie5q7" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/1nfCLoec6BNz9BZiMaqlBkBAwln0WMUXrNCd0eOqXX01x6hfSeBFXIZeMlMbKolY.jpg" alt="sliced of bread beside goblet" title="sliced of bread beside goblet" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-sm md:rounded-md lg:rounded-lg" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionX="undefined" data-positionY="undefined" data-fullWidth="false"/></figure>Dear reader –&nbsp; &nbsp; Scribbling thoughts on Romans 5:21 today. Wild how Paul frames it - sin used to wear the crown, ruling through death. But now? Grace is the new monarch, reigning through righteousness. All because of Jesus. &nbsp; It's like we've crossed a border into a whole new country. Used to live in the land of death, sin calling all the shots. Now we're citizens of life, with grace running the show. &nbsp; Christ's death flipped the script. His blood - our get-out-of-jail-free card. God's righteousness? Our golden ticket to claim Him as our own. &nbsp; This grace thing - it's not something we've earned. Can't buy it, can't work for it. The price tag's too high. God just... gives Himself to us. Freely. Through righteousness. &nbsp; And this "eternal life" Paul mentions? It's not just some far-off promise. It's here, now. Not talking about living forever in happy-land. It's about tapping into God's own life - divine, eternal, uncreated. Today. &nbsp; Feels like I'm just scratching the surface here. But man, what a trip - from sin's puppet to grace's heir. New king, new kingdom, new me. &nbsp; Gotta let this sink in more... &nbsp; Until next time &nbsp; Chaplain Mark

From Sin's Shackles to Grace's Gravy Train

<figure id="figure-fgy1rl32fm1robcv6"><img id="fgy1rl32fm1robcv6" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/20xYLjHKExdY8VOrBF2u8knf64RX37zfxOgkkb6gERUoUnvlKAVYRIvXbdkUtDnh.jpg" alt="two person's arms" title="two person's arms" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-sm md:rounded-md lg:rounded-lg" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/20xYLjHKExdY8VOrBF2u8knf64RX37zfxOgkkb6gERUoUnvlKAVYRIvXbdkUtDnh.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure>Dear Reader,Today my mind kept circling back to the resurrection of Christ. It's funny how something so familiar can suddenly hit you in a new way. I've heard the Easter story a thousand times, but today it felt different.I found myself imagining what it must have been like in that tomb. The cold stone, the darkness, the finality of it all. And then... life. It's almost too much to wrap my head around.What really got me thinking was how this one event changed everything. It wasn't just about Jesus coming back to life (which is crazy enough on its own), but it was like a reset button for all of creation.I wonder how the disciples felt when they saw Him. Shocked? Scared? Overjoyed? Probably all of the above. I try to put myself in their shoes, but it's hard to even imagine.This idea that we're part of a "new creation" because of the resurrection is rattling around in my brain. What does that even mean for me, right here and now? Am I living like someone who's part of this new reality? Honestly, most days it doesn't feel like it.And then there's the church. I've always thought of it as just a place we go on Sundays, but the idea that we're somehow the "body" of the resurrected Christ... that's heavy. Are we living up to that? Am I?I've got so many questions now, and I'm not sure where to find the answers. Maybe I need to dust off my Bible and really dig into this. There's clearly a lot more to the resurrection than I've been thinking about.I hope I can hold onto this feeling of awe and wonder. It's easy to let the familiar become mundane, but there's nothing mundane about conquering death.Note to self: Look up some of Paul's writings about the resurrection tomorrow. I've got a feeling he'll have a lot to say about this.Until next timeChaplain Mark

Tomb Raiders: My Mind-Blowing Adventure with the Original Escape Artist

Diggin-deeper Christian Counseling

Welcome to Diggin-deeper Christian Counseling
Our Ministry
Located in Sparta, Michigan, Diggin-deeper Christian Counseling stands as a sanctuary for those seeking spiritual renewal and personal transformation.
 Our ministry is built on the foundation of faith-based guidance, offering a haven where individuals can freely explore their relationship with God while addressing life's challenges.

We believe that true healing and growth happen when spiritual wisdom meets professional counseling. Through our Christ-centered approach, we help clients:

Discover deeper meaning in their faith journey
Build stronger relationships
Navigate life's challenges with Biblical wisdom
Foster emotional and spiritual well-being
Find practical solutions to personal struggles
Meet Chaplain Mark

As the founder of Diggin-deeper Christian Counseling, Chaplain Mark brings both professional expertise and heartfelt dedication to his role as your Community Chaplain. With a Master's degree in Christian counseling, he combines academic knowledge with genuine compassion to provide comprehensive spiritual support.

His Approach

Compassionate listening
Biblical wisdom
Professional expertise
Practical guidance
Spiritual encouragement
He specializes in helping individuals through:

Relationship challenges
Anxiety and depression
Faith exploration and growth
Personal development
Life transitions
His Mission
Chaplain Mark is dedicated to creating a welcoming space where you can:

Share your struggles without judgment
Explore your faith journey openly
Receive professional guidance
Develop practical coping tools
Strengthen your relationship with God
Discover your divine purpose
Our Promise to You
At Diggin-deeper, we understand that seeking counseling is a significant step. We promise to provide:

A safe, confidential environment
Christ-centered guidance
Professional expertise
Practical solutions
Ongoing support
Genuine compassion
Your journey toward healing and wholeness begins here. Let us walk alongside you as you discover God's purpose for your life and experience the transformative power of faith-based counseling.
 
Located in Sparta, Michigan, Diggin-deeper Christian Counseling welcomes all who seek spiritual guidance and personal growth through Christ-centered counseling.

Contact us today to begin your journey toward spiritual and emotional well-being.