Lord knows, nothing can’t live without rain, and we need it. Although there’s moisture in the air this cloudy morning, no rain is forecast until maybe this weekend. But God knows our needs and provides in His way and in His time.
The word “without” in scripture highlights not only dependence but also completeness or the consequence of lacking something. And so, on this Easter Monday, I’m thinking about what my former atheist self has come to believe.
Without God
“All things came into being through Him, and without Him not even one thing came into being that has come into being.” John 1:3 NKJV
God is the sole creator of everything. The heavens and the earth, light from darkness, the waters, sky, land. Vegetation, everything in every season. Cranesbill, cranberry viburnum, and wild azaleas blooming here at Vanaprastha. The moon and the stars, living creatures in water and birds that fly, livestock and wild animals, and mankind to steward them.
What I have come to believe: without God there is nothing, we are nothing, and we depend on Him.
Without His Son
Last night, Keith and I watched The Passion of the Christ, a film that comes with multiple viewer-discretion warnings. Quite frankly, I think every single person should know this story if not watch the film. For without Jesus, we are lost in sin and can do nothing. Or as He stated:
“I am the vine, you are the branches. He who abides in Me, and I in him, bears much fruit; for without Me you can do nothing.” John 15:5 NKJV
Christ’s presence and guidance for spiritual fruitfulness is essential in all that we do, especially in times of trial. Without Him, we are incomplete; without Him, there is no redemption; without Him, we are dead.
Without the Holy Spirit
For my day-to-day life, the Spirit plays a huge role. I’m always asking for guidance: “Show me the path; guide me on Your way; Thy will not mine. Action accompanies faith, for as James wrote, for faith without works in not genuine:
For as the body without the spirit is dead, so faith without works is dead also. James 2:26 NKJV
Without the Spirit, we go our own selfish ways; without the Spirit, we fall into sin; without the Spirit, we lack discernment.
But with our Triune God, all things are possible. Everything. Amen.
Linkup with Five Minute Friday: https://fiveminutefriday.com/2025/04/17/fmf-writing-prompt-link-up-without/
Carole, I feel blessed to stop in today. God’s goodness can be found all around us through His creation’s masterpiece. I have seen “The Passion of the Christ.” It was several years ago in a small community’s theater. As the audience departed, there was absolute silence.
Always a blessing to hear from you, Richard! The Passion of the Christ is a stunning film, unforgettable. And we never, never should forget.
❤️🙏❤️
Carole, I can’t imagine my life without the Spirit. Living in the WAY requires me to die to myself daily. It’s not easy. I fail daily! To truly live for Jesus requires me to pick up my cross. When I watch the Passion of the Christ, as I did this past weekend, my heart ACHES for what Jesus endured. I believe everyone should see it. I’m a fan of The Chosen, too. Thank you for this beautiful article and reminder. God bless you, CD!
Ah dear Karla, a kindred sister.