It takes faith, trust, courage, and perseverance to serve God in today's unstable world. Yet, we are never alone. Pray every day and pray often. Study the Bible. The Scriptures are a Love Letter from God to those who accept Jesus as their personal Savior. You will receive comfort, knowledge, and wisdom from the Holy Spirit. "I have loved you with an everlasting love." Jeremiah 31:3. Be blessed in Jesus' name. Amen.
Why are we feeling depressed, worried, and anxious? As disciples of Jesus Christ, we are on the Who’s Who list with God. He knows our name, needs, the number of hairs on our head, and our strengths and weaknesses. And, never forget, we are the only created beings made in His image, not the angels or the animal and plant kingdoms. Jesus died for humanity. That is the greatest love we will ever know. No earthly status compares to our level of importance when we align ourselves with Jesus, our Lord, and Savior. The reward is eternal life living in a New Heaven and New Earth forever and ever. Amen.
In 2002, I relocated from Upstate NY to New Jersey following the layoff of my nursing position. Unemployment barely provided enough money to pay my monthly expenses. The process for obtaining my NJ RN license was close to $400, which left me with no options other than to work in New York City. As I sent out resumes, I was excited because of the 90% response. Red Flag! Deciding on the right fit was based on the highest salary. Since I had worked for Division of Parole and in Behavioral Health, I decided to take a position in an all-male inpatient Rehab facility. The job was excellent, with one exception: the location required on-street parking.
Before the first day of orientation, I received a call with instructions to call the facility on arrival, give the exact location of where I parked, and an escort would be sent to accompany me to the locked facility. Red Flag! Although my orientation schedule was from 7 am-3:30 pm, my schedule would be from 2pm-10pm. At 6:40 am, I called, the escort arrived at my car, and I began to wonder why I required a male staff. When I questioned the security guard escort, he responded that it was the facility’s policy. At the end of the shift, I received instructions that I could not make eye contact or speak to any “individual hanging out” by my vehicle.
When we arrived at my car, 10 or 15 gang members were strapped with guns in full view . Yes, it was only 3:45 pm. “Remember what I told you.” As I started my car, I decided that I would not return the next day. At 5pm, I received a call from the Administrator, “How was your first day? I realize what you have seen may have surprised you, but we have never had an incident with our nurses. There is a level of respect on the streets when you are doing good for their community. Give us a chance and see you tomorrow.” All when well the first week. But on Wednesday of the following week, at 10 pm, I looked, and three men were sitting on the hood of my car. The guard immediately told me to let him handle the situation. I said a prayer and responded, “No, it is my car. I will handle this.”
The conversation: “You know what guys, I’m tired, I have a long ride home to Jersey and you are sitting on my car.” They started smiling, “We are sitting on her car.” So I asked, “Do you know who I am?” which brought laughter. “Okay, I will tell you. I am the nurse at the Odyssey House.” Immediately, I received apologies from men with guns, tatted with gang symbols. I said a quick thank you and drove off. From that day forward, I was told to park on that street, and they would always provide protection for me and my car. After a couple of paychecks, I obtained my NJ nursing license, and I resigned.
Fear was not something that I felt because I knew that God would answer my prayer and heavenly angels were protecting me, not men with guns. I have never been exposed to that level of danger again. But I would definitely count that as one of my worst “Red Sea” experiences.
And when Pharaoh drew near, the children of Israel lifted their eyes, and behold, the Egyptians marched after them. So they were very afraid, and the children of Israel cried out to the Lord. 11 Then they said to Moses, “Because there were no graves in Egypt, have you taken us away to die in the wilderness? Why have you so dealt with us, to bring us up out of Egypt? Is this not the word that we told you in Egypt, saying, ‘Let us alone that we may serve the Egyptians’? For it would have been better for us to serve the Egyptians than that we should die in the wilderness.” Exodus 14:10-12
Although many individuals have never experienced the compromise of their physical safety to that extreme, we have another level of fear: the uncertainties of life. Mental illnesses among believers [in the Most-High God] are at an all-time high. The sermons have changed from preparing for Jesus to come again and having faith and trust in God to steps for relieving your anxiety and worries. The hymns, “Tis So Sweet to Trust In Jesus” and “Great is Thy Faithfulness” are songs of the old-time believers. Now lyrics include, “God, its me, not feeling like getting out of my bed this morning” and “God, where are you? Not feeling near to you, at all.”
This morning during worship, God reminded me of this gang-related incident. Our feelings [including mine] are out-of-control. We are not living faith-based lives, nor do we trust in God. When adversity and hard times hit, our first response is self-reliance. Instead of immediately asking God for help, like the Israelites, we feel that God has left us alone to fight our battles–Red Sea experiences.
And Moses said to the people, “Do not be afraid. Stand still, and see the salvation of the Lord, which He will accomplish for you today. For the Egyptians whom you see today, you shall see again no more forever.” Exodus 14:12-13
“The Lord will fight for you, and you shall hold your peace.” Exodus 14:14
Jesus told us that our lives will be full of hardships: “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.” [My conquest is accomplished, My victory abiding.] John 16:33, Amplified Bible
God, is aware of every sorrow, trial, and hardship in our lives. We are not abandoned or left alone to figure out the answer. He is waiting for us to ask Him to fight our battles. If you do not memorize any other verse in the Bible, please remember this one: “Behold, I am the LORD, the God of all flesh. Is anything too difficult for Me?” Jeremiah 32:27
Prayer: God, we need your help. We have forgotten how to pray, our faith is weak, and we trust in our own abilities. Please forgive our doubt and unbelief, and for neglecting you through prayer and study of the Bible. We desire a relationship with you built on faith, trust, and obedience. Thank you for hearing and answering our prayer that we ask in the mighty name of Jesus. Amen.
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
Have you ever considered the growth and development of a human being from conception to baby to adulthood? With the proper mental, emotional, physical, and spiritual nutrients there are no limits to the development of the mind. Although hereditary factors influence our outward appearance, with a positive mindset we can train our minds and bodies to excel beyond our imaginations.
So why do we limit God on fulfilling His plans for us? Certainly, we cannot think that our plans would exceed God’s plans. This is the perplexing thought that I am wrestling with right now. Is it pride, lack of knowledge, or a combination of both? Or even worse, is it FEAR? For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind. 2 Timothy 1:7.
Faith over Fear! We are familiar with this quote. Even so, God tells us that we are going no where fast without having an abundance of faith in Him.
But without faith it is impossible to please Him, for he who comes to God must believe that He is, and that He is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him. Hebrews 11:6
Truthfully, I know that I cannot provide a better life for myself. I confess that my prayer life is not where it should be. If I communicated with God [Pray without ceasing. Thessalonians 5:17] diligently seeking Him for answers, then I would know the plans that He has for me. I would also be fully aware that He gives the strength to fulfill His personalized plans for me. I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me. Philippians 4:13
God’s love, grace, and mercies are always extended to the weak, wavering ones with fragile hearts. Yes, He is aware that His creation would consistently need reminders that He is “I AM.” “Behold, I am the LORD, the God of all flesh. Is there anything too hard for Me?” Jeremiah 32:27
Our Heavenly Father never tires of us. Biblical stories make us aware that the question, “God, are those really your plans for me?” did not begin with us. Jeremiah was the prophet who required constant reassurance from God.
God’s Plans for Jeremiah: “Before I formed you in the womb I knew you; Before you were born I sanctified you; I ordained you a prophet to the nations.” Jeremiah 1:5
Jeremiah’s response: Then said I: “Ah, Lord God! Behold, I cannot speak, for I am a youth.”
God’s response: But the Lord said to me: “Do not say, ‘I am a youth,’ For you shall go to all to whom I send you, And whatever I command you, you shall speak. Do not be afraid of their faces, For I am with you to deliver you,” says the Lord. Jeremiah 1:6-8
There is no record of Jeremiah ever asking God, “What will you have me to do?” Just because we do not ask, does not mean that God will never reveal His plans to us. If your life is at a standstill and nothing is working out, then it is time to pray, “God, your will be done in my life.” Despite our failures, faithlessness, and fears, God is with us. He never leaves or forsakes us. Make the commitment that you will ask, listen, and respond with obedience when God reveals His plans for making you become the best you can be.
The writings [letters] of the apostle Paul in the New Testament to the churches and young Timothy reveal his fatherly character. Paul was loving, kind, nurturing, promoted harmony and the appropriate conduct for believers. Yet, he was a disciplinarian who believed in self-control, structure, discipline, and strict obedience to God. The apostle encouraged the early Christians to strive for the mark because eternal life would be the reward for the faithful. And yes, they needed strong and consistent spiritual support because the Roman Empire persecuted and killed many of the early church Christians.
The emphasis is not a historical overview of the suffering of those who follow Christ but a reminder of our religious liberty and the freedom to accept Jesus as our Lord and Savior. The selection of churches and the decision to join a body of believers is a choice that we take for granted as modern-day Christians. Yet, in 2021, there are individuals who are forced to worship secretly. And how many are experiencing persecution from families and governments because of their commitment to serve Jesus?
“I am writing to Timothy, my true son in the faith…” 1 Timothy 1:2
Young Timothy had proven himself with the zeal and energy to witness. He was a faithful disciple who had a passion to make disciples. Timothy witnessed to many individuals who accepted Jesus as Lord. The Apostle Paul became his spiritual mentor, writing two letters–1st and 2nd Timothy to provide guidance on the practical matters of the church. Even so, it was Paul’s intent to teach Timothy that he was a spiritual role model who must have strong faith, a godly conscience, to remain above reproach, and utilize the spiritual gifts that God had given him (1 Timothy 4:12–16). Mentoring still remains a vital component of Christian believers: Those who are strong in faith and spiritually mature are admonished to provide mentoring to the babes in Christ.
Sadly, we do not see the need for spiritual support, and many new believers become overwhelmed. Feeling alone, they eventually give up and return to their former way of life.
By the time, Paul wrote the letter of 2nd Timothy, he was a prisoner waiting for execution. The natural and expected emotional reaction from Timothy occurred [being mindful of your tears…2 Timothy 1:4]. Paul acknowledged his grief but reminded him that he possessed faith. “when I call to remembrance the genuine faith that is in you, which dwelt first in your grandmother Lois and your mother Eunice, and I am persuaded is in you also.” 2 Timothy 1:5. But there was a greater problem, Timothy feared for his own life.
For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind. 2 Timothy 1:7
Not only did Paul confront Timothy regarding his fear of suffering and death, in reading the remainder of the letter [chapter] Paul reminded him that there is no shame in suffering, and to remain loyal to the Faith despite the outcome.
The letters of 1 and 2 Timothy are for us–today’s Christian believers. Many have little to no faith when faced with stormy trials, seasons of darkness, and daily hardships. Is lack of faith and possessing fear the characteristics of believers? Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the Lord your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you. Deuteronomy 31:6.
Be strong and courageous! We serve a powerful and loving God who promises to take care of us. Acknowledge and accept your God-given character: Fearless, powerful, loving, possessing mental, emotional, and spiritual strength–a rational mind knowing and believing in faith God will deliver us and bring victory to our situation.
When you go through deep waters, I will be with you. When you go through rivers of difficulty, you will not drown. When you walk through the fire of oppression, you will not be burned up; the flames will not consume you. Isaiah 43:2
If any one should have anxieties, and worries, it should only occur in the unbelievers who do not acknowledge or serve God.
Believers in the Most-High God begin to study the Bible, pray without ceasing, and ask to be guided and directed by the Holy Spirit. We cannot be prepared for the revocation of religious freedom and the persecution that “we the free” will experience one day without the knowledge of God’s Word and the indwelling of the Holy Spirit. Nor can we remain faithful in trying times. Proclaim your heritage–God is our Heavenly Father, Jesus Christ redeemed us from sin, and the Holy Spirit is our Teacher and Comforter!
Is there anything you feel is standing between you and God?
Many have created a spiritual comfort zone that includes certain behaviors and habits that compromise their relationship with Jesus Christ. Holding on to stuff, emotional scars, unforgiveness, relationships with unbelievers, wayward habits, and secret sins prevent us from having a serious relationship with God. Although our secret sins are unknown to others, God is fully aware of the self-seeking desires that keep us distanced from Him. Can you imagine being in a committed relationship with a significant other involved with you and someone else?
The above question contains two words, “you feel” which immediately places us in the realm of compromise. The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked: who can know it?Jeremiah 17:9. God leaves no stone unturned when He says that we cannot evaluate ourselves according to our standards. No one is exempt. It is easy to say, “Oh no, I would never do that” or ask “How could they have done something so terrible?” Yet, we neglect God by placing more importance on the demands of people, places of entertainment, and things that make us feel good.
How do we know if we are obedient and following God’s commandments? The Bible is our guidebook to living faith-based righteous lives. The Bible is not a self-help book. Yes, we study the Bible for knowledge. Even so, God never expected us to travel this journey without His help. Our connection with God is vital because He is the source of our strength. “I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing.If anyone does not remain in Me, he is like a branch that is thrown away and withers. Such branches are gathered up, thrown into the fire, and burned.… ” John 15:5-6
It is our faith that causes us to have a totally dependent relationship with God. When we finally decide to serve God wholeheartedly, we can have trials of fire, seasons of darkness, and continually thirsty souls. Still, we also will have the confidence and courage to wait on the Lord our God who promises to deliver us.
The Lord will guide you continually, And satisfy your soul in drought, And strengthen your bones; You shall be like a watered garden, And like a spring of water, whose waters do not fail. Isaiah 58:11
Then Jesus said to his disciples, “If any of you wants to be my follower, you must give up your own way, take up your cross, and follow me.” Matthew 16:24
Surrender, Faith, Trust, Obedience and Suffering is the cost of discipleship. It means that my desires must align with God’s perfect plans. Following Christ sets boundaries on the things that I ask for, “God, let your will be done.” And then, I wait [for as long as God determines] for His answer: “Wait on the LORD; Be of good courage, And He shall strengthen your heart; Wait, I say, on the LORD!” Psalm 27:14.
Total commitment places me in perfect alignment [agreement] with God. Discipleship will never be easy. The last thing that my heart wants to do is to realize that denial of self stands at the center of being a genuine Christian.
Steps 2 Success with Spiritual Solutions 
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