Despite our unexpected stormy trials, believers are never alone. “I have told you all this so that you may have peace in me. Here on earth, you will have many trials and sorrows. But take heart, because I have overcome the world” (John 16:33).
Trials, sorrows, and difficulties are designed to give us spiritual growth and increase our dependency on God. We were not created to live without God’s divine intervention. It’s normal for our emotions to intensify when we feel our hardships are drowning us. If we allow our emotions to control us, our faith diminishes and we risk losing our confidence in the love and strength that God provides.
Take the time to separate yourself and pray for help. Pray an honest prayer. “God, I am feeling overwhelmed and disappointed. I need your help. I know that you love me and will bring me victoriously through this situation. In Jesus’ name, Amen.” Praise God and thank Him in advance for His Divine Intervention. Prayer does not take away our trials. Consistent prayer allows us to receive strength and guidance from the Holy Spirit.
Study the Scriptures every day. Include time for quiet meditation. The Holy Spirit is our Comforter. As believers, we can hear God’s voice through different means such as our thoughts, reading scriptures, listening to sermons, or hearing another believer’s testimony of victory. Sometimes, God communicates through spiritual dreams or a fellow believer who may not even know our situation. However, it’s important to note that God’s answer always aligns with the Holy Scriptures. Through daily worship, we learn to recognize the voice of God.
When the disciples were in the boat, fearing for their lives, Jesus appeared to them by walking on the water. “Be of good cheer! It is I, do not be afraid” (Matthew 14:27). Remember, we are never alone. Jesus is with us in every stormy trial. The human effort of faith and trust along with Divine intervention always ends in victory! During the challenges of the raging storm, Jesus says, “Come to Me.” Take the giant leap of faith and “Go Ahead! Walk on the Water.”
“The LORD your God in your midst, The Mighty One, will save; He will rejoice over you with gladness, He will quiet you with His love, He will rejoice over you with singing.” (Zephaniah 3:17)
“The elect of God are dear to His heart. They are those whom He has called out of darkness into His marvelous light, to show forth His praise, to shine as lights amid the darkness of the world…. God loves His children with infinite love. To Him the dearest object on earth is His church.” Christ’s Object Lessons, 165.
The Decision To Follow Jesus Requires Total Surrender and Faithful Obedience
“My sheep hear My voice, and I know them, and they follow Me.” (John 10:27).
God, the Father has an elect people, who love Him, and follow and obey God, His Son, Jesus Christ. Yes, we are the sheep, who live a life of surrender and humility, involving Christ in every aspect of our lives, by continuously praying for His guidance, wisdom, and strength.
“Yes, I am the vine; you are the branches. Those who remain in me, and I in them, will produce much fruit. For apart from me you can do nothing.” (John 15:5, NLT).
The choices and lifestyle of true worshipers is based on obeying God’s command to live a life of sacrificial self-denial and separation from unbelievers [Romans 12:1-2].
True worshipers engage in personal worship every day, praising God with gratitude, praying, and studying the Holy Scriptures. Because we love Jesus, we seek His Divine guidance instead of thinking our thoughts, and following our inclinations.
Still, every day, we struggle with internal desires and fight against Satan’s external temptations, but we whisper prayers asking for the strength to overcome, and Jesus provides us with the strength to resist the devil.
No temptation [regardless of its source] has overtaken or enticed you that is not common to human experience [nor is any temptation unusual or beyond human resistance]; but God is faithful [to His word—He is compassionate and trustworthy], and He will not let you be tempted beyond your ability [to resist], but along with the temptation He [has in the past and is now and] will [always] provide the way out as well, so that you will be able to endure it [without yielding, and will overcome temptation with joy]. (1 Corinthians 10:13, Amplified Bible).
We live in a time filled with busyness, and the pursuit of personal desires and goals. Satan, the Ultimate Deceiver presents us with the temptations of seeking wealth, status, and relationships with unbelievers designed to distract and separate us from God.
Faith Triumphs in Trouble!
“In the Bible, Jesus acknowledges that His believers will face trials, teaching that suffering builds endurance, identifies followers with Christ, and is temporary compared to future eternal glory.”
“Therefore, having been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ, And not only that, but we also glory in tribulations, knowing that tribulation produces perseverance; and perseverance, character; and character, hope…”
“Now hope does not disappoint, because the love of God has been poured out in our hearts by the Holy Spirit who was given to us.” (Romans 5:1, 3-5)
Believers who are dedicated to following Jesus will suffer many trials, hardships, and adversities, designed to produce a spirit of humility, and keep our faith, focus, and total dependence on Christ.
“Blessed are those who do His commandments, that they may have the right to the tree of life, and may enter through the gates into the city.” (Revelation 22:14).
“In the same way, those of you who do not give up everything you have cannot be My disciples.” (Luke 14:33).
As dedicated disciples of Jesus Christ, we intentionally choose to obey His Commandments, including the command to separate ourselves from worldly activities and unbelievers, who Satan uses to influence us to sin against God.
Seeking God’s Will Through Much Prayer
“When You said, ‘Seek My face,’ My heart said to You, ‘Your face, LORD, I will seek.” (Psalm 27: 8). Through consistent prayer and daily surrender, we receive the power of the Holy Spirit required to live a life of self-denial and faithful obedience.
We are Temporary Travelers living on a Temporary Earth intentionally preparing for the Second Coming of Jesus Christ.
“And behold, I am coming quickly, and My reward is with Me, to give to every one according to his work.” (Revelation 22:12).
Our focus is heavenly! Because we love Jesus, we choose to follow and obey our Shepherd, and look forward to seeing Jesus, our Triumphant King, who will reward us with our Eternal Crown of Life.
Every day, through our prayers, Jesus affirms “His Abundant and Always Present Love:” “I have loved you with an everlasting love.”
From using our faith to believe that God is Who He says He is, when studying the Holy Scriptures, we know that we can rely on God’s Promises, and the power of the Holy Spirit to comfort and empower us to keep moving forward.
“For YHWH your God is among you, the Mighty One who saves; He will rejoice over you with gladness; He will quiet you with His love; He will be joyous over you with singing.” (Zephaniah 3:17, BLB)
Lord God, as we travel on the Narrow Path of Righteousness, which requires much faith, trust, surrender, and total obedience, we thank You for comforting and encouraging us with Your promise in John 14:1-3. We believe and are preparing for that Great Day when You will come and take us to Heaven. Lord, we look forward to the day when we will sing many songs of gratitude, worshiping You for leading us victoriously through our spiritual journey from Earth to Heaven. In faith, we pray in the Loving and Righteous Name of our Triumphant King, Jesus Christ, Amen.
“Come to me, all you that are weary and are carrying heavy burdens, and I will give you rest.” (Matthew 11:28, NRSV).
Personal Testimony: Living on the East Coast of Florida is a wonderful place to live if you do not mind hot, humid weather, and love the ocean. However Florida has one drawback that almost every Floridian has experienced and that is the overgrowth of mold.
On August 10th, 2026, I looked under my bathroom vanity cabinet and could not believe what I was seeing, the wall was covered with black mold. So, I decided to look under the lower kitchen cabinet and that wall was also covered with mold.
At that point, I knew that my calm and peaceful life that God had blessed me with was interrupted. Yet, I did not know that this would be one of the toughest journeys of faith, I have experienced in many years.
What happened next was shocking, the property manager and maintenance supervisor insisted and agreed that it was only mildew.
The Property Manager refused to follow the company’s Mold and Mildew Policy, which required sending a licensed Mold Inspector to assess and perform testing of almost two hours duration.
At this point, I prayed and asked for God’s Divine guidance; “God, should I hire a Mold Inspector?” God revealed His answer of “Yes” in a Supernatural manner that you know that He is God.
Divine Intervention #1: On Wednesday, I called the Mold Inspection company that is located one hour from my home, explained the situation to the receptionist, who said they were booked, but she would speak to the owner. Within 30 minutes, she called telling me that my inspection was scheduled for Friday morning.
Divine Intervention #2: Instead of one of the company’s technicians performing the Mold Inspection, God sent Jared, the owner of the company, who performed extra testing at no charge.
Four days later, I received the Mold Inspection report along with the Lab results: The species of mold that was present is airborne, and from my nursing background, I know that it always attacks the Respiratory System, especially those with a diagnosis of Asthma, which I have.
“Surely He shall deliver you from the snare of the fowler And from the perilous pestilence. He shall cover you with His feathers…” (Psalm 91:3-4).
Divine Intervention #3: Although this mold species is airborne, the test for airborne spores was negative: “No airborne spores present” in my apartment.” Hallelujah!
Further inspection revealed that the bathroom and kitchen subfloors were damaged by the hidden leaky water pipe in the wall leading to the bathroom faucet, and contained a large amount of mold growth.
I emailed the property manager the report and the Management company responded immediately by scheduling three Mold Remediation companies to inspect the apartment, and submit their bids.
The approved company was scheduled to begin the Remediation process today, Friday, September 18th.
Ten days ago, I received the preparation instructions, which required the relocation of all of the bathroom and kitchen items to my living and sleeping areas. I prayed, asking God for the wisdom and strength, and finally, after ten days, the rigorous task was completed.
Every day, I prayed for Divine guidance during the entire process; God answered my prayer by giving me the wisdom and strength to relocate two rooms into the 50% of the remaining areas, like playing with Legos, everything was stacked perfectly.
Because there were no vacant apartments available on the property, I was told that I would have to find temporary housing, during the Remediation process, and Florida State laws do not require the Landlord to cover the expenses.
“But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.” (Matthew 6:33, ESV).
Divine Intervention #4: Jesus pays attention to the small details. He directed me to book an Airbnb that I thought was an apartment, but it is a separate house, on the owner’s property. I feel as if I am at a Spa; the host is friendly, and her flower garden is phenomenal, including beautiful orchids.
“And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose.” (Romans 8:28, ESV).
Jesus, our loving Shepherd is also “Yahweh Yireh), which translates to ‘The Lord will provide.'” God provided the finances for a two-week stay, allowing me to have a wonderful vacation while my apartment is remediated and renovated.
“Every word of God proves true; He is a shield to those who take refuge in Him.” (Proverbs 30:5, ESV). there was one major concern of the Remediation process that I immediately prayed about when I was informed of the start date of Friday, 9/18/2026.
Still, there was one major concern of the Remediation process that I immediately prayed about when I was informed of the start date of Friday, 9/18/2026.
“Remember the Sabbath day by keeping it holy. Six days you shall labor and do all your work, but the seventh day is the Sabbath of the Lord your God. On it you shall not do any work…” (Exodus 20:8-9, NIV).
The Remediation crew planned on performing and completing the demolition, working from early Friday morning until late into Friday night, after sunset, which would be the beginning of the Sabbath. God honors and blessed those who honor and obey His Commandments.
Divine Intervention #5: This morning, 9/18, I was notified via email by the Property Manager of the delay to begin Remediation; Their Corporate office was still processing the payment to the Remediation company, and the pending date for the initial Remediation is rescheduled for Monday, September 21st.
“The earth is the LORD’s, and everything in it. The world and all its people belong to Him.” (Psalm 24:1, NLT).
“Behold I am the God of all flesh, is there anything too difficult for Me? (Jeremiah 32:27).
In these Scriptures, God proclaims His Divine, Infinite Power and His Absolute Sovereignty over all creation. God has no limitations. And God will reveal His power to those who put their complete faith and trust in him.
“Humble yourselves, therefore, under the mighty hand of God so that at the proper time He may exalt you, casting all your anxieties on Him, because He cares for you.” (1 Peter 5:6-7, ESV).
The following are notes from a Sermon entitled “God Is On Your Side,” by Pastor Pavel Goia:
“Trust that God is Faithful! Do not look at your challenges, look to God. God has the necessary means; Pray and ask for His plans to be revealed instead of your own.”
“To know God is life eternal. We only worry when we do not know God’s Loving Character. God is always on our side and if God is for us, who can be against us?”
“When we focus on God, God will focus on us, and fight our battles. We are not supposed to fix our problems, we are supposed to give them to God.”
“Study and Believe in God’s Written Word (His promises in the Bible). Keep praying! God loves us more than we understand. Choose to believe and keep praying.”
“In faith, when we pray and ask Jesus for help, the prayer is answered. We may have to wait, which is a test of our faith. We may not see the answer, but trust God with all your heart.”
“Oh, taste and see that the Lord is good; Blessed is the man who trusts in Him! Oh, fear the Lord, you His saints! There is no want to those who fear Him. The young lions lack and suffer hunger; But those who seek the Lord shall not lack any good thing.” (Psalm 34:8-10).
The difference between Christian Believers and unbelievers is that our faith, trust, and focus are directed to God, Who loves us with an Everlasting Love, and promises to take care of us.
Brothers and Sisters, if we love God then why do we continue to distrust His love and countless promises to take care of us? The Sovereign God, who gave His only Son, Jesus to die for us deserves our love and loyalty.
We must let go of the self-reliance that unbelievers practice, revealing that they despise God’s Sovereign Authority.
“Search me, O God, and know my heart! Try me and know my thoughts!” (Psalm 139:23, ESV).
This overwhelming situation brought me to a Spiritual Crossroads, requiring me to make a choice: Would I make a covenant with Jesus to surrender myself completely to follow my Shepherd with faithful obedience, trust, and reverence?
When we face impossible situations, we cry out to God for help, but are we willing to live the sacrificial life of self-denial and faithful obedience required to follow Jesus?
“Would not God discover this? For He knows the secrets of the heart.” (Psalm 44:21, ESV). God reads human hearts, knowing whether or not our commitment is genuine.
Today, I enjoyed the beauty of Melbourne Beach. Although the warmth of the sun and the warm breeze felt great, as I looked at the ocean, the waves were raging with visible strength, and no one attempted to enter the water, yet the sky was absolutely beautiful.
In John 16:33, Jesus tells us that our Christian Journey will be one that includes many hardships and adversities, but to remain faithful and courageous because He has overcome. Hallelujah! Yes, Jesus loves us!
“The righteous cry out, and the Lord hears, And delivers them out of all their troubles.” (Psalm 34:17).
Lord Jesus, we cry out to You, because we cannot live without Your Divine Help. Jesus, we thank You for being our Shepherd, Redeemer, Provider, Protector, Healer, and Risen King. We love You, Lamb of God, and with gratitude, we worship You for relinquishing Your Divinity to come to this earth to live in poverty, and suffer, bleed, and die a criminal’s death on Calvary’s Cross to save our souls. In Victory, from the grave You arose, proclaiming that You have the keys to hell and death, which will be destroyed when you come again as our Triumphant King. Hallelujah! This Sabbath, we honor You, King Yeshua with love, faith, obedience, and loyalty. This Sabbath, we worship You on the day that You made Holy. Jesus, we thank You, for loving us with an Everlasting Love. In faith and with reverence, we ask this prayer in Your Loving and Righteous Name, Amen.
Reflecting on this week reveals that when we invite Christ into our lives through personal worship, Jesus’ Divine Presence provides comfort, peace, and the miraculous proof that His promises are Yes and Amen!
If you haven’t let go of self-reliance then you are missing out on the abundant spiritual blessings and benefits that the righteous receive when they honor God, worshiping Him with love, surrender, and faithful obedience.
Lord Jesus, we thank You for bringing us safely through another week. As we prepare our hearts and minds to worship You for the next 24 hours, we ask for a double portion of the anointing of the Holy Spirit.
Thank You for loving us so much, that You designated 1/7th of our week for the restoration of our mind, body, and soul. Every week, we look forward to being healed mentally, emotionally, physically, and most importantly spiritually.
As we worship You, Lord, we pray for those who are attempting to restart their lives without their loved ones. We ask You to provide healing, comfort, and strength to the mother at my doctor’s office, who is grieving the loss of her son.
Jesus, we look forward to the day when You will fulfill Your promise to come again, taking us to Heaven, where there will be no more tears, pain, or sorrow. Because of Your sacrificial gift on Calvary’s Cross, we have the opportunity for Eternal Life, and with gratitude and praise, we thank You, Beautiful Triumphant King. In faith, we ask this prayer in the Worthy and Righteous Name of Jesus Christ, Amen.
“If you then, who are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father who is in heaven give good things to those who ask Him!” (Matthew 7:11, ESV)
For several years, I worked full-time, studying one academic course per semester. Finally, my goal of completing the academic courses required for the Registered Nursing program came to fruition.
With much excitement, I began to apply for Nursing programs, only to discover the programs within a 50 mile radius of where I lived in New Jersey, had a two to three year waiting list. Although I was extremely disappointed, God revealed His Divine Providence and Plans for my future.
One day, while sharing my dilemma with one of my closest friends, who was a Registered Nurse in Upstate New York, advised me to apply to the school, in which he completed his nursing education.
I whispered a prayer for God’s guidance, took a giant leap of faith, and God responded by revealing His Supernatural Power; within 5 days, I received my acceptance letter. As I whispered a prayer of gratitude, I immediately recognized this was God’s Divine Providence.
Then ambivalent feelings began to cause an internal war within my heart; relocation to Upstate New York would require walking away from a serious and loving relationship that I was involved in.
Again my nurse friend gave me sound advice, “Nursing is not only what you love to do, you must also consider that the future brings many unexpected hardships, becoming a Registered Nurse and teaching patients how to manage their illnesses and achieve optimal health provides job satisfaction and ensures a secure future.”
“Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us in Christ with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly places, even as He chose us in Him before the foundation of the world…In love He predestined us for adoption to Himself as sons through Jesus Christ, according to the purpose of his will,” (Ephesians 1:3-5, ESV).
At the age of 40, I was accepted into a rigorous nursing program that was scheduled to start within 3 months. Whether or not my excitement boosted my faith, with God’s Help, and Tee, the love of my life, we drove a UHaul and my car to Upstate New York.
When we arrived at my new home, Tee spoke these words, “Dee, I have thought about it and I just can’t do a long distance relationship.” I quickly replied that I understood, expressed my love for him, but felt no grief, because I knew this was God’s Plan for my life.
Yahweh Yireh, Our Provider Reveals His Love
“Now to Him who is able to do exceedingly abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that works in us…” (Ephesians 3:20).
While unpacking, the school’s financial aid officer notified me of another God-given blessing; I received a scholarship that covered tuition, books, and uniforms for the duration of the program.
God’s Expectation: To keep our faith and focus on His Power and Promises, not our circumstances.
“But without faith it is impossible to [walk with God and] please Him, for whoever comes [near] to God must [necessarily] believe that God exists and that He rewards those who [earnestly and diligently] seek Him.” (Hebrews 11:6, Amplified Bible).
The Faith Test: Nursing Clinicals required two years of intense study, and included summer rotations, My scholarship did not cover my living expenses; and the curriculum’s schedule was definitely not one that would allow the student nurse to work Monday through Friday.
Loyalty to God’s Commandments: Because I honor God by obeying the Fourth Commandment to keep the Seventh Day Sabbath holy, I could not work on Sabbath, and studying required 8-12 hours on Sundays.
As a student nurse, I had to totally rely on God for my provisions, placing me on a spiritual journey that required 100% of my faith and trust in God’s Love and Promises. And Yahweh Yireh proved that nothing is too hard for God!
The Reward: As I gave the valedictorian remarks at graduation, with a humble and grateful heart, I thanked God for giving me the courage to trust Him with my life, and the strength and wisdom to maintain a 4.0 GPA.
“Therefore do not be anxious, saying, ‘What shall we eat?’ or ‘What shall we drink?’ or ‘What shall we wear?’ For the Gentiles seek after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them all.” (Matthew 6:31-32, ESV).
“Trust in the Lord with all your heart, And lean not on your own understanding; In all your ways acknowledge Him, And He shall direct your paths.” (Proverbs 3:5-6).
The Journey of Faith Requires Total Trust and Obedience To God
“For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, says the LORD, thoughts of peace and not of evil, to give you a future and a hope.” (Jeremiah 29:11).
Reflection: Are you following God’s Plan for your life? The majority of today’s Christian Community fail to live a Christ-Centered, Faith-based life, which requires daily self-denial and obedience to God.
Every day, we plan and fulfill our personal agendas, without praying and asking God to reveal His Perfect Will and Plans for our lives. God’s Warning: “Do not be wise in your own eyes…” (Proverbs 3:7).
“But why do you call Me ‘Lord, Lord,’ and not do the things which I say?” (Luke 6:46). Self-Reliance is an unrighteous character trait that demonstrates a heart filled with pride and willful disobedience against God.
The Christian believer, who fails to pray for God’s Guidance has the same mindset as unbelievers, who value human thoughts over God’s Sovereign Thoughts and Ways.
“Do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit who is within you, whom you have [received as a gift] from God, and that you are not your own [property]?” (1 Corinthians 6:19, Amplified Bible).
We can believe in God and attend church, but the Holy Spirit cannot dwell within an “unbelieving believer,” who intentionally refuses to surrender and acquiesce to God’s Sovereign Authority.
Pursuing our desires and plans reveals that we place our faith and trust in human thoughts and strategies, instead of God’s Promises, but spiritual defiance results in spiritual death.
Self-governance invites Satan to tempt us continuously with the desires of our hearts, which distract us from our relationship with Christ, ultimately giving Satan the power to control our lives.
“But He said, ‘Blessed rather are those who hear the word of God and keep it!'” (Luke 11:28, ESV).
God lovingly tells us that using our faith to obey His Plans has always been required. When we love God, the Holy Spirit converts our hearts, and obeying our Heavenly Father is never a burden.
“Every good thing given and every perfect gift is from above; it comes down from the Father of lights [the Creator and Sustainer of the heavens], in whom there is no variation [no rising or setting] or shadow cast by His turning” [for He is perfect and never changes]. (James 1:17, Amplified Bible).
God always rewards His faithful and obedient sons and daughters with spiritual blessings. We may focus on receiving material blessings, yet receiving God’s gifts of an alert and oriented mind, spiritual wisdom, and optimal physical health are examples of the spiritual blessings that money can never provide.
Prayer Connects Us To El Roi, The God Who Sees
“And rising very early in the morning, while it was still dark, He departed and went out to a desolate place, and there He prayed.” (Mark 1:35, ESV). In Jesus’ earthly life, through continuous prayer, He asked God, His Father for wisdom and guidance.
Jesus revealed humility and the willingness to always surrender and faithfully obey His Father, and God, the Father has not changed, to receive the reward of Eternal Life, we must obey God.
“My sheep hear My voice, and I know them, and they follow Me.” (John 10:27). As Sons and Daughters of God, follow and obey Jesus, our Shepherd by seeking His will, plans, and guidance through daily prayer.
The true condition of the human heart is revealed by one’s thoughts, spoken words, habits, and lifestyle. Daily surrender and faithful obedience reveal love, loyalty, and reverence for God’s Sovereign Authority and Divine Providence.
In the Bible, God reveals His Righteous Character; therefore, if we are diligently studying the Holy Scriptures, we learn Who God is: “I Am That I Am!”
Understanding The Purpose of Faith-Builders: Trials, Hardships, and Adversity
In Job chapter 38, Job questioned God; yes, Job felt that he did not deserve the extreme suffering that the Lord God allowed to enter His life.
God’s Response: “Then the Lord answered Job out of the whirlwind and said, ‘Who is this that darkens counsel [questioning my authority and wisdom] By words without knowledge? Where were you when I laid the foundation of the earth? Tell Me, if you know and have understanding?'” (Job 38:1-2, 4 Amplified Bible).
Throughout the Bible, God Proclaims His Sovereignty
“So will My word be which goes out of My mouth; It will not return to Me void (useless, without result), Without accomplishing what I desire, And without succeeding in the matter for which I sent it.” (Isaiah 55:11, Amplified Bible).
As Followers of Jesus Christ, Who sacrificed His Life on Calvary’s Cross, when we appreciate Jesus’ Life-Giving and Life-Saving Sacrifice, we will use our faith to love, trust, and obey God.
Believers use their faith to believe. Faith does not have a gray area, nor does faith depend on the presenting circumstances; Steadfast Faith proclaims, God said it! I believe it! It is done!
“The Lord is good to those who wait for Him, To the soul who seeks Him. It is good that one should hope and wait quietly…” (Lamentations 3: 25-26).
Faith praises God, even though the answer to our prayers have not come to fruition. King David tells us to wait on the Lord with courage and prayers of gratitude. In the wait, we thank God for the victory, asking Jesus to give us the strength to persevere. Faith believes that God is Faithful!
Loving God Is The Catalyst For Steadfast Faith
“So He [Jesus] answered and said, ‘You shall love the LORD your God with all your heart, with all your soul, with all your strength, and with all your mind…'” (Luke 10:27).
Jesus tells us that “God’s Love” is the spiritual foundation of our salvation. We must use our gift of faith to establish and maintain a spiritual love connection to God’s Agape Love, which is manifested through our Savior, God, Jesus Christ, His Son.
“We love because He first loved us.” When we understand that the Message of The Cross reveals God, the Father’s overwhelming love for humanity, gifting us with His Precious Son, God, Jesus Christ, with humility and gratitude, we will reciprocate our love through faithful obedience to our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.
“I will bless the Lord, O my soul and all that is within me, bless Your Holy Name!”
Faithful obedience and trust are spiritual fruits, revealing that the believer’s heart overflows with love and adoration for God’s Faithfulness, Grace, and continuous Mercies.
Why is our faith strong and anchored in The Rock, Jesus Christ?
From searching and studying the Holy Scriptures, we learn the Loving and Righteous Attributes of God’s Sovereign Character: He is Immanuel, God With Us in the peaceful times and in the raging storms.
God Proclaims: “I will never leave you or forsake you.” Like a young child, we use our faith to steadfastly believe that God is: El Roi, “The God, Who Sees me;” and El Ne’eman, “The God, Who is Trustworthy and Reliable.”
In faith, we wait on Yahweh Yireh, our Provider, because His Promises to always take care of us are Yes and Amen [It is so!].
“Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.” (Isaiah 41:10).
Lord Jesus, with humility and surrender, we approach Your Throne of Grace, asking for the forgiveness of our grievous sins of disobedience, doubt, and unbelief in Your Faithfulness and Your Promises. Jesus, we ask for the anointing of Your Power, and to reveal Your Presence, given to us through God, the Holy Spirit. Lord, we ask You to strengthen our faith and to guide us on the Narrow Path of Righteousness that leads from earth to Heaven. In faith, we humbly ask this prayer in the Loving and Righteous Name of Jesus Christ, our Savior, Shepherd, and Triumphant King, Amen.
“Now to Him who is able to do far more abundantly than all that we ask or think…” (Ephesians 3:20 ESV).
Today, God performed such an awesome miracle in my life that I have been in deep spiritual reflection, thanking Yahweh Yireh for at least 6 hours. Witnessing God’s Divine Providence in action is a life-changing experience!
Satan may use people and situations to disrupt our lives, but we can be confident that we serve a Heavenly Father, who sees, cares, and desires to perform miracles, so we will acknowledge and appreciate His infinite Love for those created in His image.
“Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and comes down from the Father of lights, with whom there is no variation or shadow of turning.” (James 1:17).
When we strive to faithfully obey God through daily surrender, we learn that He is a Loving Heavenly Father, who desires to give us the very best.
From not studying the Holy Scriptures, we cannot learn and know who God is; in fact, we will measure God’s Love and His Character by the world’s materialistic standards.
The majority of our prayers will be, “Lord bless me with…” instead of asking God to fulfill His Perfect Plans for our lives, which includes living an abundant and peaceful life, now and eternally.
When our prayers focus on our desires, not only do we prevent God from giving us supernatural miracles, which reveal nothing is too difficult for God, but the Holy Spirit is unable to convert our hearts and our faith in God becomes non-existent.
“Therefore let us [with privilege] approach the throne of grace [that is, the throne of God’s gracious favor] with confidence and without fear, so that we may receive mercy [for our failures] and find [His amazing] grace to help in time of need [an appropriate blessing, coming just at the right moment].” (Hebrews 4:16, Amplified Bible).
My initial prayer was an honest prayer: “God, I am afraid to let You have complete control of my life, but this situation that I am facing is impossible for human effort to resolve. I want to embrace Your love, and trust You like I never have before. Jesus, teach me how to trust You with my life, because I’m certain that I do not know how to trust You.”
The frailty of the human heart is to perceive life as filled with impossibilities, but we serve the Sovereign God who tells us, “For My thoughts are not your thoughts, Nor are your ways My ways,’ says the Lord. ‘For as the heavens are higher than the earth, So are My ways higher than your ways, And My thoughts than your thoughts.'” (Isaiah 55:8-9).
“But Jesus looked at them and said, ‘With man this is impossible, but with God all things are possible.'” (Matthew 19:26, ESV).
From redirecting my faith back to God and making the commitment to trust Him, our Loving and Faithful Heavenly Father opened the Windows of Heaven, providing the miraculous, as only the Sovereign God of this universe can do.
“Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.” (Isaiah 41:10, ESV).
Lord God, so many of us do not know that You desire to bless us exceedingly and abundantly above all we could ever ask for. We have failed to realize that we need to commit to love and worship You as our First Love. Holy Spirit, please teach us how to redirect our faith and focus to Jesus instead of ourselves. We pray for a clean heart that desires to live a sacrificial life of self-denial as demonstrated by a change in what we pray and ask for. Lord, shower us with the spiritual blessings that will empower us to see life through spiritual eyes. We thank You for Your continual Love and Faithfulness. In faith and with gratitude, we ask this prayer in the Loving and Righteous Name of Jesus Christ, Our Faithful Shepherd and Triumphant King. Amen.
“A Free, Undeserved Gift: Grace cannot be earned through human merit, good works, or costly offerings. Our deep need and unworthiness qualify us to receive it simply by asking.”
“God’s Grace is defined as an unearned, free gift of Divine favor and power given to undeserving human beings to save, transform, and empower them to obey God’s Moral Law [Exodus 20] out of love.
“If you love me, you will keep My commandments.” (John 14:15, ESV).
“Harmony with the Law: Grace does not replace or nullify God’s Moral law. Instead, Grace and the Law work in perfect harmony, with Grace giving believers the spiritual power to align their lives with God’s Commandments.”
For it is written, Be holy, for I Am Holy. (1 Peter 1:16). “God’s Grace Is A Catalyst for Transformation: Sanctifying Grace actively works within a believer to renew the heart, quicken the conscience, and purify thoughts.”
The converted heart perceives Jesus as a Loving Savior, who redeemed humanity from the second and final death [the price of sin], with His death on Calvary’s Cross.
The mind and commitment of Jesus’ dedicated followers is to honor and worship Him with daily surrender and faithful obedience, always acknowledging Christ as their Resurrected and Triumphant King!
Yeshua is our Loving and Faithful Shepherd, who is steadfastly committed to protecting and providing for His sheep.
Jesus Christ is Heaven’s Mighty Warrior and Commander of Angel Armies, who are commissioned to protect the righteous from Satan, our greatest enemy.
“My sheep hear My voice, and I know them, and they follow Me.” (John 10:27). To follow Jesus, we must love Him, learn His Righteous Character and Attributes, and study to learn how He lived in His earthly life.
To know Jesus requires knowing His Life and the Truth of His Righteous Principles. The Four Gospels: Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John document The Life of Christ in the Holy Bible.
God’s Grace is freely given to those who actively desire to receive its Life-Giving Power.
Every day, our gratitude for the gift of God’s Grace is revealed by spending time in personal worship, expressing gratitude for His Steadfast Love and Faithfulness, and asking God to reveal His Will and Plans.
Loving God is the spiritual catalyst that produces humility and the willingness to surrender to God’s Higher Thoughts and Ways [Isaiah 55:8-9].
Faithful obedience invites the Holy Spirit to speak to us through the Holy Scriptures and our thoughts. God, the Holy Spirit communicates God’s Divine Plan to every believer, who uses their faith to surrender with the commitment to follow Jesus.
Active participation in our Salvation includes learning to hear Jesus’ Voice. When facing challenges, it is best not to involve other people, which facilitates the astute recognition of Divine Guidance.
We can differentiate Jesus’ Voice from our thoughts because Divine Thoughts and Instructions always reveal that God is Holy; and God always gives Glory and Honor to Himself, because He is The Sovereign Authority of this universe.
Obedience To God Is True Worship: Remaining Covered By God’s Grace
God’s Grace: We were Justified [forgiven of our sins and cleansed from all unrighteousness] when we accepted Jesus as our personal Savior.
“But why do you call Me ‘Lord, Lord,’ and not do the things which I say?” (Luke 6:46). From obeying Jesus’ Voice [His plans for our lives], we remain covered by His Righteousness, which is required for our Salvation and Sanctification.
Sanctification is the lifelong spiritual process of our mind, character, and personality being changed from carnal unholiness into Christ’s Righteous Character.
“The Lord is good to those who wait for Him, To the soul who seeks Him.” (Lamentations 3:25). Prayer keeps us connected to Christ.
Through daily surrender, we proclaim that Jesus is the Lord of our life; yet, it is continuous faithful obedience that reveals if Jesus is sitting on the throne of our heart as our Lord, Shepherd, and King.
Remaining Under The Spiritual Umbrella of God’s Grace
“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).
Spiritual growth and character transformation require the human effort of daily total surrender and cooperation with God. To remain anchored In Christ, we cease making decisions without spiritual guidance.
Surrender is revealed by letting go of our desires and plans in exchange for seeking the guidance of the Holy Spirit through prayer and studying the Holy Scriptures.
“Wait on the Lord; Be of good courage, And He shall strengthen your heart; Wait, I say, on the Lord!” (Psalm 27:14).
To remain covered by Grace, our lifestyle is one of continuous worship; Praying, Waiting for God’s answer, and Obeying His instructions, keeps us in Right Standing with God.
Through God’s Grace, the Journey of Spiritual Transformation is performed by the Holy Spirit, yet, we must actively participate in our Salvation.
The Fruit of The Spirit Describes Christ’s Righteous Character
“But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control. Against such there is no law.” (Galatians 5:22-23).
We cannot change ourselves. The Fruit of the Spirit are Divine Attributes, which require the intervention of the Holy Spirit and our commitment to follow and obey God, and to live righteously.
To remain covered by God’s Grace, we let go of all behaviors, habits, lifestyle choices, and relationships that do not represent the Pure Righteousness of Jesus Christ.
“And those who are Christ’s have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires. If we live in the Spirit, let us also walk in the Spirit.” (Galatians 5:24-25).
From our commitment to put our faith and trust in the Strength of Christ, the Holy Spirit gives us the power to live a sacrificial life of self-denial. Every day, we will be tempted and our faith will be tested, Prayer is our Spiritual Weapon!
Through prayer, we have immediate access to Divine Help. Whisper prayers continuously throughout your day, always asking for the Spiritual Wisdom to recognize temptation and the Spiritual Strength to renounce sin in all of its devious forms.
Our Christian Journey requires faith, trust, courage, obedience, perseverance, and endurance. The psalmist, King David assures us, “When the righteous cry out for help, the Lord delivers them.” Yes and Amen!
Like the great Niagara Falls, God’s Grace, Mercies, and Power flows continuously to the heart of every surrendered believer; Jesus, our Loving Shepherd is always ready to give us Divine Help.
“Give us our daily bread” has a physical and spiritual meaning: To remain connected to Christ, we must receive the spiritual food of supernatural wisdom, strength, and power from the Holy Spirit to navigate in our spiritual journey.
Reflection: God’s Grace is the undeserving, free gift of His Divine Love, Favor and Power.
Jesus, our Shepherd leads us on the Narrow Path of Righteousness; and the Holy Spirit gives us the instructions and wisdom to live righteously, preparing us for an eternity in the presence of a Holy and Righteous God.
As time rapidly progresses toward the Second Coming of Jesus, we cannot afford to be separated spiritually from our Shepherd. A steadfast relationship with Jesus is required to be covered by His Grace.
To navigate through this tumultuous spiritual journey, we must stay under the Cover of Jesus’ Divine Grace, which invites the Holy Spirit to empower us with the supernatural wisdom and strength to “fight the good fight of faith.” Yes and Amen.
Lord God, we approach the Throne of Grace, realizing that we are powerless without Your Divine Presence, Guidance, and Power. We ask You to cleanse our hearts from all unrighteousness, and to give us the strength to keep persevering through our earthly spiritual journey. In faith, we commit to following Jesus, to establishing a life of worship filled with prayer, gratitude, and praise for Your continual faithfulness. We ask this prayer in the Loving and Righteous Name of Jesus Christ, Amen.
Steps 2 Success with Spiritual Solutions 
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