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.”
“Behold what manner of love the Father has bestowed on us, that we should be called children of God! Therefore the world does not know us, because it did not know Him.”
2 “Beloved, now we are children of God; and it is not yet been revealed what we shall be, but we know that when He is revealed, we shall be like Him, for we shall see Him as He is.
3 “And everyone who has this hope in Him purifies himself, just as He is pure.” (1 John 3:1-3).
God desires the best for us; He wants us to have a relationship with His Son, God, Jesus Christ; to know and do what is right; to live righteously, and to know and obey His One and Only Truth in the Holy Bible.
Because of the hardships in our spiritual journey with Jesus, we may become discouraged or disappointed, but if we feel that our life does not matter to God, then we are in a Spiritual Crisis.
To understand God, the Father, and God, Jesus, the Son’s phenomenal love requires that we maintain a heart-to-Heart relationship with Jesus Christ through daily personal worship.
“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).
“The Vine: Jesus represents the Source of Life, Strength, and Power.” “The Branches: Believers must stay attached to the Source.” “Bearing Fruit: Doing good works and living a faithful life happens naturally only when staying close to Jesus.”
“Staying Connected: To “abide” means to keep a close, daily relationship with Him through faith, trust, obedience, prayer, and Bible Study.”
To abide in Christ requires using our faith to follow Him and live a sacrificial life of self-denial. Study Romans 12:1-2.
Put God First: “Love the Lord your God with all your heart, soul, mind, and strength.” To stay connected to God, we must love God and dedicate ourselves to follow Jesus Christ, our Faithful Shepherd, with surrender and obedience.
“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. Do not be wise in your own eyes…It will be health to your flesh [mind and body], And strength to your bones.” (Proverbs 3:5-8).
Becoming weary and feeling as if we are carrying the weight of the world reveals that we have excluded God.
By attempting to use our thoughts and strategies to navigate through life, we have separated ourselves from the Divine Source of All Knowledge, Wisdom, and Strength.
Jesus tells us, “…you can do nothing without me.” Our spiritual journey of growth and transformation cannot be accomplished without Jesus Christ, our Redeemer.
“It shall come to pass That before they call, I will answer; And while they are still speaking, I will hear.” (Isaiah 65:24).
We desperately need to pray and ask the Holy Spirit to empower us with wisdom and strength. Because we must eat physical food every day, we must also pray daily, asking for wisdom and strength.
Nothing creates discouragement and despair like a decision that leads to facing unnecessary consequences. Yet we do not have to live the chaotic life of unbelievers, who will never enjoy Jesus’ Gifts of Peace and Contentment.
Resolution To Our Spiritual Crisis: We Make The Commitment to Redirect Our Faith and Focus Back To El Roi
El Roi (אֵל רֳאִי), translates to “The God Who sees me” or “The God Who sees.” Jesus knows every challenge and every adversity that will happen in our lifespan.
“I will never leave you or forsake you.” Jesus is committed to resolving life’s routine challenges and the unexpected hardships, but we must choose to include Him. Accepting Jesus as our Savior also means the commitment to follow Him; we pray, ask for help, and obey His instructions, waiting patiently for His resolution.
“Casting all your cares [all your anxieties, all your worries, and all your concerns, once and for all] on Him, for He cares about you” [with deepest affection, and watches over you very carefully]. (1 Peter 5:7, Amplified Bible).
The Prayer: ” Lord God, today guide me in my decision-making and give me the strength to keep moving forward.”
Faith, Trust, Courage, and Internal Joy and Peace are Spiritual gifts available to every dedicated follower of Christ. Imagine being in a one-sided relationship: you give your all, and the other person receives but never reciprocates.
“See what great love the Father has lavished on us, that we should be called children of God! And that is what we are! The reason the world does not know us is that it did not know Him.” (1 John 3:1, NIV).
Jesus has given us above and beyond what we deserve. It’s time for us to lavish our love on our Loving and Compassionate Shepherd, Savior, and Triumphant King.
By dedicating personal time with Jesus, we can whisper words expressing our love and gratitude to Him for sustaining our lives with the daily blessings that we take for granted. God is the Sustainer of all life: Our greatest blessing is God’s Ruach Breath that flows through our bodies.
“Give us this day our daily bread.” Each day brings its own obstacles. We were never created to figure things out. The answer to building our faith and escaping the Spiritual Crisis is to restore our relationship with Jesus Christ by maintaining constant communication with Him through prayer.
“My sheep listen to My voice; I know them, and they follow Me.” (John 10:27, NIV). Victorious faith requires that Jesus is actively involved in our lives, teaching and guiding us through the power of the Holy Spirit.
Worshiping the King of Kings with consistent prayer and diligent study of the Holy Scriptures invites the Holy Spirit to give us the ability to see life through spiritual eyes.
The Holy Spirit empowers us with the wisdom and strength to persevere, keeps us spiritually connected to Jesus, and guides us to move forward and stay on the Narrow Path of Righteousness.
The Message of the Cross reveals the Plan of Redemption, which God, the Father, and Jesus Christ had in place before the world and before Adam and Eve were created. We have been rescued from the wages of sin [Romans 6:23]. Thank You, God!
“For God so [greatly] loved and dearly prized the world, that He [even] gave His [One and] only begotten Son, so that whoever believes and trusts in Him [as Savior] shall not perish, but have eternal life.” (John 3:16, Amplified Bible).
All of Heaven, the Triune Godhead [God, the Father, God, Jesus, the Son, and God, the Holy Spirit] and the host of angels are dedicated to guiding and giving us the spiritual wisdom and strength to persevere in our journey with Jesus from Earth to Heaven.
Does our life matter to God? The Cross answers with a resounding Yes! We are greatly loved! Through our faith, we are saved by God’s Grace, and we are alive because of Jesus’ Love and Mercies. “I will never leave you or forsake you.” (Hebrews 13:5).
God Validates Our Worth – The Spiritual Status of the Righteous: “But you are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, His own special people, that you may proclaim the praises of Him who called you out of darkness into His marvelous light…” (1 Peter 2:9).
The Holy Bible reveals God’s Love, His Righteous Character, and is filled with countless stories of His Divine Intervention, which always produces victorious outcomes!
Does our life matter to God? We have 24/7 angelic protection! “Are not all angels ministering spirits sent to serve those who will inherit salvation?” (Hebrews 1:14, NIV). The righteous have guardian angels assigned by their Commander, Jesus Christ, to protect and guide us 24/7. (Study Psalm 91).
Not only do our invisible angels fight Satan’s invisible evil angels, but they also help us to recognize covert temptations [spiritual warfare] that the human mind cannot discern. The dedicated believer, who prays and relies on Christ, will never be scammed or suffer from financial loss due to deception.
“Yes, I have loved you with an everlasting love; Therefore with lovingkindness I have drawn you.” (Jeremiah 31:3).
The Bible Is Our Spiritual Guide and Mirror
God has given us Commandments [His Moral Law] and Righteous Precepts that teach us the difference between His Truth and false doctrines, sin and righteousness, providing us with His never-changing expectations on how we are to think and live.
The righteous who remain faithful and persevere will be rewarded: “To the one who is victorious, I will give the right to sit with Me on My throne, just as I was victorious and sat down with my Father on His throne.” (Revelation 3:21, NIV). Yes and Amen!
“And behold, I am coming quickly, and My reward is with Me, to give to every one according to his work.” (Revelation 22:12). It is just a matter of time, and He that shall come will come. Jesus asks, “…Nevertheless, when the Son of Man comes, will He really find faith on the earth?”
In the Book of Revelation, the Apostle John gives us a limited description of the New Heaven and New Earth; Jesus reveals how sin and evil on this Earth will end; and His Ultimate and Definitive Plan to destroy the wicked and reward the righteous with our Eternal Crown of Life.
The Holy Scriptures reiterate that we are Sons and Daughters of the Sovereign God of this universe, who will inherit the Kingdom of God if we participate with the Holy Spirit by living righteously. Guarding our gift of time is crucial to progressing in our spiritual journey.
Busyness does not produce spiritual growth! “…making the very most of your time [on earth, recognizing and taking advantage of each opportunity and using it with wisdom and diligence], because the days are [filled with] evil.” (Ephesians 5:15, Amplified Bible).
There is only one reason why Christian believers become despondent in their Spiritual Journey, questioning if their life matters to God: They are spiritually disconnected from Jesus Christ.
Too busy to spend time with God? We are drawn away by our digital devices, ChatGPT, wealth-building, pleasure-seeking activities, insatiable desires, and unholy relationships. “And what do you benefit if you gain the whole world but lose your own soul? Is anything worth more than your soul?” (Matthew 16:26 NLT).
“Little children, let no one deceive you. He who practices righteousness is righteous, just as He [Jesus] is righteous. He who sins is of the devil for the devil has sinned from the beginning…” (1 John 3:7-8).
We cannot follow Christ with a divided heart. Without being anchored in Christ, Satan easily uses distractions to entice us. Many former Christians have drifted so far from God that they have lost their sense of direction.
“We love Him because He first loved us.” (1 John 4:19). Believers who spend time with God in Prayer and Study of the Holy Scriptures are anchored spiritually, mentally, and emotionally to Christ.
The Christian Community has changed—We cannot look for validation from those who do not have a relationship with Jesus Christ, which also includes many church members who only practice ritualistic worship. Attending church does not indicate that we are spiritually connected to Christ.
“Be holy, for I Am Holy.” God desires that we live a pure and holy life, made possible through the Power of the Holy Spirit. Spiritual Transformation and Maturity require a lifetime of steadfast determination to live holy, revealing our desire to cooperate with the Holy Spirit.
“I can come to Jesus just as I am, but I cannot stay just as I am.” Our earthly lives are a time of probation. We only have the here and now to actively participate in our spiritual journey. Make your relationship with Jesus your priority!
The Bible Is Our Guide to Eternal Life: We must study the Scriptures for ourselves. We cannot grow spiritually from listening to someone else’s Biblical knowledge. God never instructed us to only study part of the Bible—this false doctrine has pervaded today’s Christian Community.
No, animal sacrifice in the Old Testament does not apply to today’s Christians, but learning the Sanctuary Service helps us understand the magnitude of the Plan of Redemption and the Sacredness of the Sacrificial Offering of Jesus, the Lamb of God.
The perfect lambs that were brought to the temple and sacrificed pointed to Jesus, whose death was required on Calvary’s Cross. Yes, only Jesus, the perfect Lamb’s blood had the Power to wash away our sins and to save our souls.
According to Bible Scholars, the New Testament contains 70% of the Old Testament. We live in extremely evil times; believers are confused [My people perish for the lack of knowledge. Hosea 4:6] and desperately need the power of God that comes from knowing and obeying the entire Bible [Genesis to Revelation].
The Bible identifies and teaches us how to differentiate between what is Holy and what is “filthy unrighteousness.” Always ask yourself before speaking, watching, or participating in an activity: Does this honor a Holy and Righteous God?
Studying the Bible teaches us God’s Higher Thoughts and Ways, and invites the Holy Spirit to empower us with the wisdom to understand the Message of the Cross, and God’s Love, Grace, and Mercies.
The Bible teaches us how we should honor and worship God. While on earth, Jesus lived a sacrificial life of self-denial, and He gave us instructions on how to live righteously and renounce sin in every form. The Holy Scriptures build our faith and trust in God, and teach us how to surrender, obey, and follow Jesus.
When God matters to us, we will stay connected to Jesus through prayer; we will abide in Christ by diligently studying the Bible; we will ask the Holy Spirit to teach us how to live a righteous life that honors, reveres, and glorifies God.
When our love for God is genuine, and our worship is revealed by a lifestyle of consecration, only then will the Holy Spirit begin and continue the Spiritual Process of Sanctifying and preparing us for Eternity.
Sanctification: Through the Holy Spirit, day by day, we will experience continuous spiritual growth and transformation, becoming more and more like the Righteous Character of our Triumphant King. Yes and Amen!
“And I am sure of this, that He who began a good work in you will bring it to completion at the day of Jesus Christ.” (Philippians 1:6).
Lord God, with humble hearts, we approach Your Throne of Grace, surrendering ourselves to follow Jesus with love and loyalty. We ask for forgiveness for the sins of self-reliance and following our thoughts, instead of asking for Your perfect plans for our lives. Lord, we have hit the wall and can go no further without Your Divine Help. We ask for the anointing, power, and presence of the Holy Spirit. Jesus, we are Your sheep, teach us how to recognize Your Voice. Today we renew our covenant to follow and obey our Shepherd. Lord God, we look forward to the day when we will see Jesus and receive our Eternal Crown of Life. In faith, we ask this prayer in the Loving and Righteous Name of Jesus, Amen.
Lord God, we thank You for the blessing of the Sabbath;The Day You designated as Holy, and as a Memorial of Creation, reminding us that You are the Creator and Sustainer of our lives and this universe. We praise You for the 24-hour period of Friday sunset to Saturday sunset that gives us a weekly break from the world’s stress and chaos. Lord, we look forward to the time when we will receive Your gifts of ultimate peace and spiritual rest in Your Eternal Kingdom. We pray this prayer of gratitude, also asking for spiritual renewal and restoration. In faith, we ask for these blessings in the Loving and Righteous Name of Jesus Christ, Amen.
“For we have no power against this great multitude that is coming against us; nor do we know what to do, but our eyes are upon You.” (2 Chronicles 20:12)
When three armies came against King Jehoshaphat, his immediate response was to declare a fast in the Kingdom of Judah. and using his faith, he prayed, asking for God’s Help.
“Lord, the God of our ancestors, are You not the God who is in heaven? You rule over all the kingdoms of the nations. Power and Might are in Your hand, and no one can withstand You.” (2 Chronicles 7:20, NIV).
King Jehoshaphat Prayer Focuses On God
If we look carefully at the King’s prayer, he honors and revere’s God by acknowledging God’s Sovereign Omnipotence: “You rule…Power and Might are in Your hand, and no one can withstand You.”
We were created to depend on Christ. Loving Christ is revealed by using our faith to follow and depend on our Shepherd with a spirit of humility, surrendering daily to follow and obey His will and plans.
Throughout the Bible, we find that God never focuses on human ability or weaknesses. God always redirects our focus to Himself: The Scriptures reveal His Love, Power, and Sovereign Authority.
“Behold I am the God of all flesh, is there anything too difficult for Me?” (Jeremiah 32:27).
“God reminded the Prophet Jeremiah that He holds Absolute Power over all humanity and creation, affirming that nothing is too hard for the Sovereign God.
Reflection: Do we really believe that nothing is impossible for God to resolve? “Would not God search this out? For He knows the secrets of the heart.” (Psalm 44:21).
Joshua, Israel’s New Leader: Although Moses mentored Joshua to lead the people, when Moses died, because of the Israelites history of stubbornness and disobedience, Joshua not only feared the people, but he also doubted his ability to lead them.
God’s Response: (Joshua 1:5-6, 9):
“No man will be able to stand before you all the days of your life; as I was with Moses, so I will be with you. I will not leave you nor forsake you.”
“Only be strong and very courageous… Observe to do according to all the Law…Do not turn from it to the right hand or to the left, that you may prosper wherever you go.”
“Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous; do not be afraid do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.”
Reflection: Recently I listened to a discussion by a panel of pastors, who stated the reason that most believers are having a difficult time in their spiritual Journey, and their routine duties of life: “We are always focusing on ourselves instead of God.”
Whether we are facing the routine obstacles of life, or overwhelming challenges and hardships, our initial thought should not be, “What am I going to do?”
With humility, King Jehoshaphat acknowledged our human limitations and the fact that we must depend on God: “For we have no power against this great multitude that is coming against us; nor do we know what to do, but our eyes are on You.”
Love and loyalty to God is revealed by our willingness to surrender to His Authority. In faith, we pray for guidance, with the commitment to trust and obey Jesus Christ, our Savior and Shepherd.
“Jesus answered, ‘I am the Way and the Truth and the Life. No one comes to the Father except through Me.'” (John 14:6).
The Message of The Cross reveals that Jesus Christ has Redeemed us with His Life: “You are not your own, for you were bought with a price. So glorify God with your body.” (1 Corinthians 6:19-20, ESV).
“From accepting Christ as our Savior, we acknowledge that His blood washes away our sins, which signifies, “New Ownership: Believers belong to God rather than to themselves or the ways of the world.”
God, the Father’s expectation is that we follow, trust, and obey God, Jesus Christ, His Son and our Shepherd by honoring Him with love, loyalty, surrender, faith, and obedience.
“For we walk by faith, not by sight.” (2 Corinthians 5:7). “And without faith it is impossible to please Him…” (Hebrews 11:6).
Do our thoughts and decisions reveal that our faith is in Jesus or in our abilities?
If we live from day to day relying on our thoughts and strategies then we have redirected our faith and focus to ourselves, which proves that we do not believe in the Power of God, nor do we trust Him.
A lifestyle of surrender and obedience is demonstrated through daily worship of Prayer, Bible Study, and asking God to reveal His will and plans for our lives.
Faith, trust, and obedience are the keys that prompt God to open the Windows of Heaven, and pour out His Abundant Blessings, especially when we need His Divine Help.
Great is His Faithfulness! God sustains our lives; it is His Ruach breath that flows through our lungs and His mercies that keep us alive.
The Failure to Reverence God is prevalent in today’s Christian Community: Sadly, because we have embraced self-reliance, rarely studying the Bible, we pray with a focus on ourselves, approaching God as if He is our equal. God will not acknowledge prayers that do not honor Him.
Our prayers should always begin with honoring and reverencing God’s Sovereign Authority: Jesus teaches us in the Lord’s Prayer to always acknowledge God, the Father’s Holy Name : “Our Father in Heaven, hallowed be Your Name.”
King David prayed: “Yours, O Lord, is the greatness and the power and the glory and the victory and the majesty, for all that is in the heavens and in the earth is yours. Yours is the kingdom, O Lord, and you are exalted as head above all.” (1 Chronicles 29:11).
“Do not be wise in your own eyes.” (Proverbs 3:7).
We have embraced the worldview of self-governance. Something is not right when Christians use their limited perception, and prior experience to evaluate a challenge, trust their feelings, and with a spirit of overconfidence, develop a strategy, believing that it will work.
Self-Reliance is the intentional decision to exclude God, revealing that we believe our mind is greater than God’s Omniscience, and His Higher Thoughts and Ways.
Not only does self-reliance dishonor God, but it also redirects our faith to trust in misguided human thoughts. “…Do not lean on your own understanding.” (Proverbs 3:5).
“Not everyone who says to Me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ will enter the kingdom of heaven, but only he who does the will of My Father in heaven.” (Matthew 7:21).
Trusting in ourselves builds an impenetrable wall of resistance against depending on God, placing us in a state of disobedience, which immediately separates us from God.
Trusting in human wisdom compares to driving on a familiar road covered with a thick fog. Because we know every curve in the road, instead of driving with caution, we drive at our normal speed, because we do not anticipate encountering any hazards.
From Genesis to Revelation, the Scriptures reveal that God always redirects our faith and focus to His unlimited Power. Jesus created us to depend on His Wisdom, Strength, and Guidance: “Without Me, you can do nothing.”
“We know that God does not listen to sinners, but if anyone is a worshiper of God and does His will, God listens to him.” (John 9:31, ESV).
The Holy Spirit alerts every believer when they have detoured from the Narrow Path of Righteousness. Every day, we decide if we are interested in surrendering and following Jesus Christ.
“I the Lord search the heart and test the mind, to give every man according to his ways, according to the fruit of his deeds.” (Jeremiah 17:10, ESV).
When we live to please ourselves, we have an issue of the heart. God knows who loves Him, and although He knows we are attempting to serve Him with a divided heart, He will never coerce us to love Him.
When our response to John 3:16 is to love God with all of our heart, mind, soul, and strength then faithful obedience and surrender is not a burden or an inconvenience.
Receiving Forgiveness and Spiritual Restoration: “If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.” (1 John 1:9).
First, we acknowledge that we have sinned against God by not revering and trusting His Love, Faithfulness, and Sovereign Power.
“Create in me a clean heart, O God, and renew a steadfast spirit within me.” (Psalm 51:10).
God requires a prayer of confession and asking for forgiveness because we have rebelled against His Sovereign Authority by embracing and practicing self-reliance.
“I will answer them before they even call to me. While they are still talking about their needs, I will go ahead and answer their prayers!” (Isaiah 65:24, NLT).
When we repent for our wrongdoing and in humility, admit our helplessness, we serve a Loving and Faithful God, who will give us His Divine Help.
We do not have to live a life of hoping for the best to happen. Jesus’ Invitation:
“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).
“For the eyes of the Lord are on the righteous, and His ears are open to their prayer. But the face of the Lord is against those who do evil.” (1 Peter 3:12, ESV).
Lord God, You are the Kingdom, the Power, and the Glory. We confess that we have trusted in our thoughts and strategies instead of placing our faith and trust in You. And we ask You to forgive us for dishonoring Your Holy Name and Your Sovereignty. We admit that we have reached a dead end in our spiritual journey, and are facing obstacles that we cannot overcome without You. Lord, we ask You to restore us spiritually. We confess that we desperately need Your Help, and we thank You for Your Divine Intervention. In faith, we ask this prayer in the Loving and Righteous Name of Jesus Christ, Amen.
“Whether you turn to the right or to the left, your ears will hear a voice behind you, saying, ‘This is the way; walk in it.'” (Isaiah 30:21, NIV).
When Jesus approached Matthew, the corrupt tax collector, Jesus extended the invitation: “Follow Me’ He told him, and Matthew got up and followed him…”
Matthew did not have to respond with spoken words; Jesus had the Divine Power to read what is in every human mind and heart, so He knew that Matthew was tired of his journey of walking down a dead end road.
Every day, Matthew heard the people in the marketplace telling others about Jesus’ Teachings of God’s Love for all people, regardless of their social or economic status.
Although Matthew had never personally listened to Jesus’ Teachings, as he sat at the tax collection table, the people constantly talked about a Powerful Man, named Jesus.
And this Jesus, who was from Nazareth healed lepers, opened blind eyes, gave hearing to the deaf, those who were unable to speak, talked, the crippled got up and walked, and He also have the power to cast out demons.
“Mark 7:36-37: Even though Jesus told them not to tell anyone, the people kept talking about it more and more, saying, ‘He does everything well. He even makes the deaf hear and the mute speak.'”
Yes, Jesus’ Love, Teachings, and His Ministry of Healing was known throughout Syria. “Yet, Dr. Luke records that when Jesus raised the widow’s son—His reputation of healing power spread throughout Judea and the surrounding country.”
The Truth is, Matthew knew that he was traveling on a wide path when he learned that Jesus taught one’s status, wealth, and material possessions were worthless in the kingdom of God.
Jesus refuted the Pharisees’ false doctrines that only wealthy individuals would enter heaven. Deep within his heart, Matthew realized that his lifestyle placed him on the broad road, leading to death and destruction.
“The thief does not come except to steal, and to kill, and to destroy. I have come that they may have life, and that they may have it more abundantly.” (John 10:10).
Today, Jesus is asking you and me to stop giving Him the ritualistic worship of weekly church attendance, and to “Follow Him” with a commitment of total surrender and faithful obedience.
“But why do you call Me ‘Lord, Lord,’ and not do the things which I say?” (Luke 6:46).
We must be willing to stop nurturing our habits of self-reliance and disobedience against God; cease following our thoughts and strategies; and stop chasing our desires for this Earth’s temporary treasures, pleasures, and meaningless relationships.
“I the LORD search the heart and examine the mind, to reward each person according to their conduct, according to what their deeds deserve.” (Jeremiah 17:10, NIV). Jesus knows the true status of every human heart.
Who is sitting on the throne of our heart?
From reflecting on our thoughts, desires, habits, and lifestyle, the truth is revealed; without loving God, and honoring Him with daily surrender and faithful obedience, we are sitting on the throne of our heart.
For Jesus to sit on the throne of our hearts, the Apostle Paul tells us:
“Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship.”
2 “Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—His good, pleasing and perfect will.” (Romans 12:1-2, NIV).
To follow Jesus requires a spirit of humility and a lifelong commitment of daily surrender and obedience.
Through daily personal worship [Prayer, Studying and Obeying the Holy Scriptures], we abide in Christ. Asking for God’s Will to be done in our lives, reveals that we honor and reverence our King’s Sovereign Authority.
When we use our faith to implicitly trust and obey jesus, our Shepherd, the Holy Spirit leads us [day by day] on the Narrow Path of Righteousness.
God, the Holy Spirit is responsible for sanctifying and transforming our mind, character, and personality into the likeness of Christ’s Righteous and Divine Character.
When we cooperate with the Holy Spirit, our Teacher and Guide gives us knowledge, spiritual wisdom, discernment, and strength.
When tempted, it is the Holy Spirit who opens our eyes to recognize Satan’s covert temptations, and the Holy Spirit convicts our conscience if we try to hide secret sins.
“Love must be sincere. Hate what is evil; cling to what is good. Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord. Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer.”(Romans 12:9, 11-12, NIV).
Walking on the Narrow Path of Righteousness Requires the Human Effort of Total Surrender, Faithful Obedience, and The Divine Intervention of The Holy Spirit
Everyday, we will face the internal conflict of our hearts, driving us to pursue its desires and the external conflict of Satan’s continuous temptations.
“But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, [g]gentleness, self-control. Against such there is no law. And those who are Christ’s have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires.” (Galatians 5:22-24).
Although we practice self-control, our willpower can never keep us on the Path of Righteousness. We must walk through life on bended knees, asking the Holy Spirit several times a day to give us Divine Strength.
Following Jesus requires faith, courage, and the desire to live righteously. Prayer keeps us connected to Jesus, and we put on our armor, by studying the Scriptures, our Spiritual Sword.
Because of the Cross, we have Total Access to the Saving Power of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ: “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” (Philippians 4:13). Yes and Amen!
“Live in harmony with one another. Do not be proud, but be willing to associate with people of low position. Do not be conceited….”
“Do not repay anyone evil for evil. Be careful to do what is right in the eyes of everyone. If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone.” (Romans 12:16-18, NIV).
Lord, we come to You with our stubborn hearts and clenched hands of self-reliance. Yet, we have come to our spiritual senses. Jesus, we love You and desire to follow You. We ask You to forgive us for sitting on the throne of our heart, and excluding You from our lives, by only giving you recognition once a week.
Lord, we are willing to take the leap of faith to trust and obey You. And with trembling hands, we release our character deficits and burdens into Your Holy Hands. As we walk on this New Path of Total Surrender, we ask You to please be our Strength, and to anoint us with the Power and Presence of the Holy Spirit. In faith, we ask this prayer in Jesus’ Holy Name, Amen.
“Do nothing from selfishness or empty conceit [through factional motives, or strife], but with [an attitude of] humility [being neither arrogant nor self-righteous], regard others as more important than yourselves.” (Philippians 2:3, Amplified Bible).
True Agape Love is the heart and spirit of religion. We know that our heart is filled with God’s Love when we love and pray for others, despite the way they treat us.
God is Love! God Gives Us The Characteristics of Agape Love
“Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. 5 It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. 6 Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. 7 It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.” (1 Corinthians 13: 4-7, NIV).
“But the end of all things is at hand; therefore be serious and watchful in your prayers.” (1 Peter 4:7).
Although our hearts are filled with God’s love, the Apostle James tells us to always pray for wisdom.
Our initial morning prayer should include asking God to give us spiritual wisdom. Without wisdom, it is impossible to discern life’s dilemmas through spiritual eyes, resulting in the inappropriate use of our emotions.
2 Corinthians 5:14: “The love of Christ constrains us…” God’s Love acts as a powerful, overwhelming force that directs a believer’s responses.”
Satan is busy, always looking for ways to disturb our peace of mind. But even when offended, we remain silent. Our first response to any given situation is to whisper a prayer for Divine Strength and Guidance.
Praying redirects our carnal mind to the heavenly realm. Praying prevents us from committing the grievous sin of bringing dishonor to God’s Holy Name and His Loving Character.
We may see ourselves as good people, but it takes the right situation to reveal the true spiritual condition of our heart and character. We are not who we think we are!
God reveals that every human heart is filled with the corruption of sin: “The heart is deceitful above all things, And desperately wicked; Who can know it?” (Jeremiah 17:9).
Harboring Past Grievances and Unforgiveness
For those who do not study the Bible, Satan easily manipulates their minds to accept his false teachings. The word dislike is not found in the Holy Scriptures. Jesus tells us, either we love or hate others.
We may say, “But you have no idea the trauma, pain, and mistreatment this individual has inflicted on me.” Pray for yourself and for those who mistreat others, because they are eternally lost.
If the person [or people] who harmed you is deceased, then pray a prayer of repentance for the hatred in your heart; and verbally express to Jesus that you forgive the person [people] who harmed you.
“‘Come out from them and be separate,’ says the Lord.” (2 Corinthians 6:17, NIV).
Because Christ created us and loves us, we reveal our love for Christ by loving ourselves. Consequently, we do not stay in abusive, toxic, and demeaning relationships and marriages.
“But if you do not forgive others their sins, your Father will not forgive your sins.” (Matthew 7:15, NIV).
Unforgiveness produces a dark cloud of sin into our minds, gives us an impure heart, prevents the Holy Spirit from residing within, and we lose our inheritance of receiving the Crown of Eternal Life.
“Whoever claims to love God yet hates a brother or sister is a liar. For whoever does not love their brother and sister, whom they have seen, cannot love God, whom they have not seen.” (1 John 4:20, NIV).
Truthfully, without possessing a heart filled with Agape Love, we are in the same spiritual predicament as unbelievers. Are we willing to be lost along with the person/people who mistreated us?
Because God is Omniscient, He knows our entire lifespan and every negative, hurtful situation, we will experience. Yet, there are two promises that God is still fulfilling:
“He heals the brokenhearted and bandages their wounds.” (Psalm 147:3).
“Do not remember the former things, Nor consider the things of old. Behold, I will do a new thing, Now it shall spring forth; Shall you not know it? I will even make a road in the wilderness And rivers in the desert.” (Isaiah 43:18-19).
Healing is a spiritual journey that requires our active participation: We must love God, love others, including our enemies, quickly forgive, and let go of our past.
The Evolution of the Present Loveless State of Christianity
Ritualistic Loveless Religion: “The Pharisees kept the Sabbath, went to church, ate clean foods, gave their tithe and offerings, but they still crucified Jesus.”
Jesus’ Last Days Prophecy: Matthew 24:12
“And because iniquity shall abound, the love of many will wax cold.” Jesus told His disciples that in the Last Days [which is right now], many Believer’s hearts would be void of love.
King Solomon tells us that there is nothing new under the Sun; eventually, the negative aspects of history always repeats itself.
“In 2026, We are living in a time when human beings in this world and in the church are becoming cold, unfeeling, and insensitive. Christian believers are quietly nurturing the selfishness in their heart, which has overpowered God’s Love. We simply do not care about our brothers and sisters in Christ.” Pastor Dr. W. Phipps
Reflection: What is the present condition of your heart? Be honest in your self-evaluation! “Would not God discover this? For He knows the secrets of the heart.” (Psalm 44:21, ESV).
Because Jesus could read their hearts, He knew that His twelve disciples did not love each other. Jesus’ Command to His disciples is still valid for His followers today:
“A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another: just as I have loved you, you also are to love one another.” (John 13:34).
God’s Agape Love Keeps Us On The Narrow Path
“If we practice self-denial, and manifest kindness, courtesy, and Christian sympathy, [God’s] love will be kept warm in the heart.”
When our hearts are filled with God’s Love, we are not easily annoyed. Yes, the line at the store is filled with anxious, angry, complaining people, yet, we have a calm spirit, because our hearts are filled with Jesus’ Love and Peace.
“Agape Love can endure evil and provocation, without being filled with resentment and revenge. God’s Love gives us power over anger, a quiet spirit, and persevering patience” [The Fruit of the Spirit – Galatians 5:22-23].
Without retaliation, we can overlook a stranger’s rude words, and have an unbothered mind when a resounding car horn is used to curse us.
“For the love of Christ controls and compels us, because we have concluded this, that One died for all, therefore all died; and He died for all, so that all those who live would no longer live for themselves, but for Him who died and was raised for their sake.” (2 Corinthians 5:14-15, Amplified Bible).
“True love will give us an esteem of our brethren, and raise our value for them; and this will limit our esteem of ourselves, and prevent the [unrighteousness] of self-conceit and arrogance.”
God’s Agape Love Is Transforming
“God’s Love corrects a sharpness of temper, sweetens and softens the mind, It can endure evil, injury, and provocation, without being filled with resentment, indignation, or revenge.”
God’s Love makes the mind steadfast, gives us power over our angry passions, and furnishes it with a persevering patience…”
Our time on this Earth is slipping fast into eternity. We must kneel before the Throne of Grace, asking the Holy Spirit to reveal any hidden sins in our heart.
“We need to understand the Biblical teaching that we were created to sense and feel the presence of God.”
“Our heart can only stay saturated with God’s Love by the continual and consistent sense of God’s Presence in our life.”
“Draw near to God, and He will draw near to you.” (James 4:8). In these Last Days, we desperately need to be in the presence of God. Evaluate and Rearrange your daily schedule, so you can have personal worship at least twice a day.
Consistent worship invites the Holy Spirit to spiritually transform our mind, character, and personality into the likeness of Christ’s Righteous Character, and to permeate our hearts with Agape Love.
“I will never leave you or forsake you.” (Hebrews 13:5). With God’s Love overflowing in our hearts, even when the tests and trials come, we remain faithful, never losing hope, because we believe in Jesus’ Abiding Love and His Promises.
Heaven’s Divine Spiritual Team is dedicated to our spiritual growth and preparing us for an eternity of worshiping our Lord, Savior, and Triumphant King, Jesus Christ. Yes and Amen!
Lord God, we come to You in total surrender, seeking to be in Your Holy Presence. We ask You to cleanse our hearts from all unrighteousness, and to fill us with Your Agape Love. Lord, teach us how to love You and to love others. We also ask for wisdom, discernment, and the strength to persevere in our spiritual journey. In faith we ask this prayer in the Loving and Righteous Name of Jesus Christ, Amen.
“For I, the Lord your God, hold your right hand; it is I who say to you, ‘Fear not, I am the one who helps you.'” (Isaiah 41:13, ESV)
Throughout the Bible, we find God’s Abundant Promises to always take care of us. The Scriptures reveal our Heavenly Father’s never-changing love for us, and His desire for us to completely depend on Him, in every aspect of our lives.
“Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 4:6-7, ESV).
But the truth is, until we face dilemmas that are impossible for us to resolve, we may think or say, “My faith and trust is in God,” but our exclusion of God when making daily decisions reveals that we really trust our human thoughts.
Self-Reliance diminishes our faith in God’s Love and Sovereign Authority. Trusting God in life’s routine duties may appear insignificant, but placing our faith in God, in the small matters demonstrates obedience, and invites the Holy Spirit to strengthen and build our faith.
God’s Command: “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. Do not be wise in your own eyes…” (Proverbs 3:5-7).
Relying on our thoughts, strategies, and abilities redirects our focus from God to ourselves, weakens our faith, and places us in a spiritual state of disobedience.
Every day, We Stand At The Spiritual Crossroads: Will we choose to follow Jesus?
At some point in our lives, God will allow us to face overwhelming changes and challenges that are impossible for human effort to resolve. If our daily choices reveal a history of trusting our thoughts and plans then we will unjustly blame God for not caring about us.
“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. Then you will call upon Me and go and pray to Me, and I will listen to you.” (Jeremiah 29: 11-12).
We were created to obey God, depend on His Perfect Plans, and then we are rewarded by receiving His Guidance, Strength, and Protection.
“Why do you call Me ‘Lord, Lord,’ but not do what I say?” (Luke 6:46). By calling Jesus “Lord,” we acknowledge His Supreme Authority, not only with spoken words, but with daily surrender and faithful obedience.
Throughout the Bible, we find that God’s Promises have always been conditional; receiving God’s blessings is only possible when we follow and obey our Shepherd, Jesus Christ.
Following Jesus Requires A Life of Self-Denial
Jesus’ Warning and Promise: “I have told you these things, so that in Me you may have [perfect] peace. In the world you have tribulation and distress and suffering, but be courageous [be confident, be undaunted, be filled with joy]; I have overcome the world.” (John 16:33, Amplified Bible).
Jesus warns us in advance that our spiritual journey with Him will require suffering, but from relying on His Strength and Power, we are filled with His peace, and with courage and hope, we keep moving forward: “I will never leave you or abandon you.” (Hebrews 13:5).
If you have never depended on God, begin today by letting go of the unbeliever’s mindset and lifestyle of Self-Reliance, which produces the consequences of mental and emotional distress.
“Let us then with confidence draw near to the throne of grace, that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need.” (Hebrews 4:16, ESV).
We should never suffer from the distress of uncertainty, anxiety, worry, and consequences that overwhelms unbelievers, who will never enjoy Jesus’ beautiful gift of Abundant Peace.
Following Jesus with faithful obedience results in receiving His greatest benefits: “The Lord is good, a stronghold in the day of trouble; He knows those who take refuge in Him.” (Nahum 1:7).
Our faith must be living and active! “Trust in Him at all times, O people; pour out your heart before Him; God is a refuge for us. Selah” (Psalm 62:8). Yes and Amen!
Our mind’s default setting is, “What am I going to do?” But God desires for us to use our faith and reset our default: “God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.” (Psalm 46:1, ESV).
Reflection: Are we spending time with God? Worshiping God includes separating ourselves for the consistent daily personal worship of Consecration, Prayer, and Studying the Holy Scriptures.
“Behold, I am Yahweh, the God of all flesh; is anything too difficult for Me?” (Jeremiah 32:27, Legacy Standard Bible). In this Scripture, Yahweh reminded the Prophet Jeremiah that the “I AM” has no limitations!
Using our faith to trust and obey God is a life-changing decision that invites the Holy Spirit to guide us, and bless us Jesus’ Spiritual Wisdom, Strength, Joy, Peace, and Happiness.
To receive God’s Help, with humility and surrender, we must repent for the sins of self-reliance and living in opposition to God’s Divine Will and Plans for our lives.
“If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.” (1 John 1:9).
Faithful obedience acknowledges that we worship Jesus, our Lord and Savior with surrender and reverence. True Love for God produces a heart filled with humility, and the willingness to readily acquiesce to God’s Sovereign Authority over our lives.
The most important relationship is the one that requires us to totally depend on God, using our faith to believe, trust, and obey Jesus, Yahweh Yireh, our Provider, Who is always Faithful.
“Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows.” (James 1:17).
Lord God, we confess and repent for our sins of self-reliance and excluding you from our lives. We desire to live a life of faithful obedience, trusting in Yahweh, our Provider. We realize that we need Your Divine Help in our journey of spiritual growth and transformation. We ask for the Holy Spirit’s guidance, wisdom, and the strength to keep moving forward. We realize now that following Jesus includes taking up our cross and obeying Him. Lord, teach us how to recognize Your Voice above our thoughts. In faith, we ask this prayer in Jesus’ Loving and Righteous Name, Amen.
Steps 2 Success with Spiritual Solutions 
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