Author: steps2successwithspiritualsolutions

Character Development Series

And we know that God causes everything to work together for the good of those who love God and are called according to his purpose for them. Romans 8:28

As time moves forward, the hope of receiving a second stimulus check is rapidly weakening. While an ongoing tug-of-war ensues, individuals continue to suffer from the devastation of the crash of the economy and the loss of family and friends from the COVID-19 virus. Broken promises, limited monies, unemployment, a global health crisis, escalation of hatred, grief, and hurricanes that destroyed homes filled with precious memories are just a few of the everyday hardships that bind us together into one race.

Remember, that Humanity has more likenesses than differences!

Psychologists are reaching out by providing online articles that teach coping skills for dealing with loss, broken promises, and understanding the bad behavior exhibited by those in leadership positions. There is a crisis that extends beyond the personal feelings of “Despair and Desperation.” We are in a dilemma that reveals the limitations of human capabilities. Strategies, recommendations, and enforcement by politicians and health-care professionals have resulted in further hostility and rebellion, and the proclamation of the violation of constitutional rights.

Most of us live under a state of Democracy, and are not willing to adhere to the dictates of those we elected, nor will we give in to the reality that we are powerless. And that is the mistake of embracing and harboring humanity’s second most outstanding enemy, Pride! Pride proliferates from a seed into a forest of twisted branches and dominates every thought, behavior, and action of its victims. Every intentional act that results in a negative outcome is fueled by Pride. Thinking only of oneself has resulted in homes where family members are forced to swim in a daily sea of unhappiness. The “I” concept produces the selfish and enduring love of oneself, which creates a toxic/unhealthy environment for all involved. 

Believer Alert: We are not exempt from possessing the Sin of Pride.

Everyone who is arrogant in heart is an abomination to the Lord; be assured, he will not go unpunished. Proverbs 16:5

Pride goes before destruction, and a haughty spirit before a fall. Proverbs 16:18

The Bible is God’s Voice to humanity. Throughout the scriptures, God warns us against Pride. The Sin of Pride eventually destroys those who love and nurture this unnecessary evil. Yes, many innocent victims suffer the consequences of decisions based on Pride. At some point, most of us have fallen prey to this sinister enemy. Have you ever insisted on having your way, even if it resulted in hurting your family and friends?

Pride always produces defiance! Pride is a powerful enemy that exhibits itself externally. Just look at the face and body posture of someone who is having a prideful moment. They possess a defensive stance as if preparing for battle. Pride has no boundaries or limitations, the mannerisms exhibited and the words expressed are always for the detriment of others.

Live in harmony with one another. Do not be haughty, but associate with the lowly. Never be wise in your own sight. Romans 12:16

We are not compelled to possess the character trait of Pride that even God despises. If you insist on having your way at the expense of others or always thinking of yourself as the ultimate authority based on your knowledge, social status, job position, etc., make an immediate change by letting go of this ungodly character trait that kills compassion, and the love for others.

God has promised to work with us when we decide to rid ourselves of our character defects. He tells us, “Blessed are the meek (humble), for they will inherit the earth. Matthew 5:5. Do not be concerned about the viewpoint that “kindness is a weakness.” God blesses us, and He honors those who bow to humility. It takes our most extraordinary efforts to resist the stronghold of Pride. Even so, we can and will overcome when Human Effort + Divine Intervention work together in harmony.

The struggle of Pride is real. But we can be assured that if God causes everything to work out for our good, He will give us the victory over the Sin of Pride. 

If my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and I will forgive their sin and will heal their land. 2 Chronicles 7:14

Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding; 6 in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight. 7 Do not be wise in your own eyes; fear the LORD and turn away from evil.…Proverbs 3:5-7

Bible Reading: Proverbs 16

God, we confess that we have embraced Pride’s sin and have hurt others and ourselves by doing so. We ask for forgiveness and ask you to teach us how to be humble. We desire to rid ourselves of all character defects as we prepare ourselves for your Second Coming. We ask this prayer in the Worthy Name of Jesus. Amen. 

© Sonya Johnson Ruiz 2020, No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted for commercial purposes without the written permission of the author.

Can both fresh water and salt water flow from the same spring? James 3:11

Recently, I read a quote by C.S. Lewis that prompted me to research and find out more about the individual who stated:

The moment you wake up each morning, all your wishes and hopes for the day rush at you like wild animals. And the first job each morning consists of shoving it all back, and listening to that other voice, taking that other point of view, letting that other, larger, stronger, quieter life come flowing in.

Although Clive Staples Lewis was a British writer who held academic positions in English literature at Oxford and Cambridge Universities, he was also a theologian who considered himself to be a Believer in God. When we reflect on the quote, certainly his words reflect life from a spiritual perspective, and point to the depth of our relationship with God.

Awakening to a new day proclaims that we have been given the priceless gift of God’s love, grace, and mercies: The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases; his mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning; great is your faithfulness. Lamentations 3:22-23. God’s mercies are unmerited favor, we can never do anything to deserve His gifts that are freely given nor should we take those gifts for granted.

How do we become the best that we can be? It is our duty to change and develop our character. But the Holy Spirit produces this kind of fruit in our lives: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, 23 gentleness, and self-control. There is no law against these things! Galatians 5:22-23

By presenting our wishes, hopes, and plans daily to God in prayer, and asking for His blessing and guidance, we achieve spiritual growth. No matter how organized our to-do list is, or the resolutions we make, only Divine Intervention combined with human effort can provide perfect peace, harmony, and maturation. God is the other voice that C.S. Lewis refers to, it is God that provides us with the other point of view. The “other, larger, stronger, and quieter life” is a benefit from serving God.

“For I know the plans I have for you,” says the LORD. “They are plans for good and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope.” Jeremiah 29:11

God has designed the road map for us to develop into our very best, spiritually, mentally, emotionally, and physically.  It is a freewill choice to follow His plans that require unwavering faith, trust, and commitment to serve and obey. Following God’s map leads us down the Road to Salvation that has dangerous curves, bumps, potholes, and detours. Even so, He has promised to never leave us or forsake us; it is only through God that we can change. Our characters must align with the Fruit of the Spirit. Stay on the road, God has developed customized journeys that are specific to our needs. Yes, it is rough, but we are never alone.

Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight. Do not be wise in your own eyes; fear the LORD and turn away from evil.…Proverbs 3:5-7

The quiet voice of the Holy Spirit speaks to us when we place ourselves in that quiet mode to hear with our spiritual ears, “Be still, and know that I am God!” Psalm 46:10. On the hierarchy of created beings, we were created a little lower than the angels who are God’s heavenly messengers, and protectors of all humanity. If the angels know their purpose is to obey and worship their Creator, how much more should we serve God in humility?

With God we can strive to achieve spiritual perfection in our life-long journey of Sanctification. Through prayer, diligent study of the Bible, and obedience, we stay connected to the vine, Jesus Christ. Strive to become the godly person who seeks after righteousness. Our willingness to change invites our Spiritual Team to unleash power and give us strength to be our very best.

Bible Reading: James 3

God, we ask you to help us to become the best person we can be. We acknowledge that we are in need of your Divine intervention and guidance in our lives. Please forgive us for the sin of self-reliance. We ask this prayer in the Worthy Name of Jesus. Amen.

© Sonya Johnson Ruiz 2020, No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted for commercial purposes without the written permission of the author.

Did you know that we have been blessed with a gift that deepens our relationship with God?Happy Sabbath!The 7th day Sabbath was instituted by God. I learned about the Sabbath when I was 6 years old at school and that was 55 years ago. I have been told that I look like I am in my 40s. Not sure of that…but I do know that the 24 hours that God has blessed and designated holy has made it possible for me to live a faith-based life, eat a plant based diet, and has allowed me to achieve optimal health.God knew that we would need one day, from Friday sunset to Saturday sunset for spiritual, mental, and physical renewal. Thank you, God. Amen.© Sonya Johnson Ruiz 2020

If you miss the live stream, the recorded service will be available later tonight or on Sunday morning.

Have a blessed and happy Sabbath!

Instructions for Spiritual Growth

Rejoice that we serve a Risen Savior! Remember that we are never, ever alone in our struggles. Amen.

Our Good And His Glory • Devotional
https://bible.com/reading-plans/13878/day/2?segment=0

This is a phenomenal Devotional…please enjoy. It gives us a clearer perspective of God. Have a blessed day!

“Beware of false prophets who come disguised as harmless sheep but are really vicious wolves.” Matthew 7:15

But understand this: In the last days, terrible times will come. For men will be lovers of themselves, lovers of money, boastful, arrogant, abusive, disobedient to their parents, ungrateful, unholy, unloving, unforgiving, slanderous, without self-control, brutal, without the love of good, treacherous, reckless, conceited, lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God, having a form of godliness but denying its power. Turn away from such as these!…2 Timothy 3:1-4

Forewarned that troublesome times would come has often been viewed with great skepticism. Yes, the Bible tells us of a period of change, but wasn’t that supposed to happen in the distant future? According to our current events, we are living in the last days of earth’s history. It is not by chance that we are experiencing a pandemic, acts of nature, escalation of racism, child abuse, human trafficking, political dissent, and many other factors that have most living on the edge. 

For me, the most prevalent enemy that we face is deception. If we think about a magicians’ illusions, then we are aware that magic is effective because of the “Trick of the Eyes.” Being fooled by make-believe is easily accomplished; a positive outcome is possible because the audience desires to see the trick and also has the desire for the trick to end successfully. We are excited that the illusionist has performed an excellent feat, and we applaud for a job well done.

When we embrace fantasy, misinformation, and unproven theories, we experience a metamorphosis. Eventually, our brain becomes confused, we are unable to perceive truth, and the dividing line between illusion and reality disappears. After all, even in the innocence of having fun, magic is based on deception and lies. The realm of the unknown entices us, and the things that promise to enhance our quality of life we readily embrace.

Advertisements for products are carefully developed to captivate the target audience that will become customers. The individuals are identified by a team of marketing experts who possess the powers of persuasion. Do we benefit from most of the products that are presented to enhance our lives? The article by Forbes is quite interesting: https://www.forbes.com/sites/karagoldin/2018/11/06/3-reasons-why-the-benefit-of-your-product-isnt-always-its-selling-point/#56e7e2732f41

Yes, we face deception every day. Not all manipulative tactics are developed for our detriment, but it is always the recipient who takes risks when they “Just Believe.” As the illusionist, Teller of Penn and Teller states, “Lying respectfully is a terribly delicate art.” Our environment includes individuals who are experts at lying respectfully. There are times when we are confused because we desire to hear sugar-coated words or seek unproven ideologies to cope with adversity.

With so much misinformation flooding our lives, how do we determine if what we see and what we hear is true or false? I believe in the power of prayer and that the Bible is the Voice of God. Have you ever had a life-changing thought that has prevented you from making a mistake? That is the third person of the Godhead, the Holy Spirit.

I will instruct you and teach you in the way which you should go; I will counsel you with My eye upon you. Psalm 32:8

For the Lord gives wisdom; From His mouth come knowledge and understanding. Proverbs 2:6

In all your ways acknowledge Him, And He will make your paths straight. Proverbs 3:6

God has established a standard for truth. Through prayer and diligent study of the Bible, He has promised to protect us from deception.

No temptation has overtaken you that is not common to man. God is faithful, and he will not let you be tempted beyond your ability, but with the temptation, he will also provide the way of escape, that you may be able to endure it. 1 Corinthians 10:13

King Solomon prayed and asked God for wisdom. God was so pleased with his unselfish request that Solomon received above and beyond the wisdom that he asked from God. He received the unique gift of being the wisest man to ever live.

11 And God said unto him, Because thou hast asked this thing, and hast not asked for thyself long life; neither hast asked riches for thyself, nor hast asked the life of thine enemies; but hast asked for thyself understanding to discern judgment;

12 Behold, I have done according to thy words: lo, I have given thee a wise and an understanding heart; so that there was none like thee before thee, neither after thee shall any arise like unto thee. 1 Kings 3:11-12

We have the same opportunity to pray for wisdom and the gift of discernment, which is necessary to avoid deceptive tactics. As we seek knowledge, we learn of God and His promises of grace and mercy to protect us. If we continue in faithfulness and obedience, God will allow us to receive all of His bountiful blessings. I look forward to better days in a New Heaven and New Earth. Revelation 21-22

Bible Reading: 1 Kings 3

God, we are surrounded by deception, tricks, and respectful lies. We ask that you give us wisdom and the discernment to know the difference between truth and misinformation. We commit to trust in your promises and ask for your guidance. Please fill us with your Holy Spirit that we may live righteously. We ask this prayer in the Worthy Name of Jesus. Amen

© Sonya Johnson Ruiz 2020, No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted for commercial purposes without the author’s written permission. 

“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

It is almost impossible for a majority to agree on any given point; even so, most of us would wholeheartedly agree that our world is in a crisis. The COVID-19 virus escapes and defeats all of humanity’s efforts to curtail its global impact. The surging, declining, and resurgence cycle is evident by the increase of cases and deaths in most countries.

The dilemma intensifies as nature takes a turn and becomes a disturbing force, displacing individuals from their safe harbor, causing them to seek shelter in unfamiliar places. With little time to prepare, those living in the path of hurricane activity are forcefully removed from their comfort zones. The warning of refusing to comply with mandatory evacuation was reinforced by officials stating, “We will not attempt physical removal from your home, if you choose not to evacuate.”

Emergency preparedness is a concept that I have practiced for many decades on the job, but never developed a personal emergency plan until recently. Although my husband and I are not close to the storms, we have decided to pack a couple of bags with essential clothing, if we would need to evacuate our home. Our necessary documents are also in a small strongbox in a central location that enables us to grab and go.

Preparation is a powerful concept that eliminates emotional responses when adversity arises. It is not fear that drives us to be ready, just in case. With so many natural and health disasters posing threats, rational thinking causes one to preserve their safety. Yes, taking the necessary steps to protect one’s physical safety is a priority. Still, I can think of another aspect of maintaining one’s protection: to remain safe from a spiritual perspective.

Placing our lives in God’s hands while remaining faithful, trusting, and obedient is what God requires. Do not be concerned about the details of God’s plan, just wait, and He will reveal His perfect plan. God always fulfills His promises. If God said, “I will take care of you,” believe and receive. God is still faithful!

Psalm 91
1 Those who live in the shelter of the Most High
will find rest in the shadow of the Almighty.
2 This I declare about the Lord:
He alone is my refuge, my place of safety;
he is my God, and I trust him.
3 For he will rescue you from every trap
and protect you from deadly disease.
4 He will cover you with his feathers.
He will shelter you with his wings.
His faithful promises are your armor and protection.
5 Do not be afraid of the terrors of the night,
nor the arrow that flies in the day.
6 Do not dread the disease that stalks in darkness,
nor the disaster that strikes at midday.
7 Though a thousand fall at your side,
though ten thousand are dying around you,
these evils will not touch you.
8 Just open your eyes,
and see how the wicked are punished.

9 If you make the Lord your refuge,
if you make the Most High your shelter,
10 no evil will conquer you;
no plague will come near your home.
11 For he will order his angels
to protect you wherever you go.
12 They will hold you up with their hands
so you won’t even hurt your foot on a stone.
13 You will trample upon lions and cobras;
you will crush fierce lions and serpents under your feet!

14 The Lord says, “I will rescue those who love me.
I will protect those who trust in my name.
15 When they call on me, I will answer;
I will be with them in trouble.
I will rescue and honor them.
16 I will reward them with a long life
and give them my salvation.

God, we ask you to forgive us for our sins.  You have promised to take care of us and we believe that you will keep your promises. We place our lives in your hands. Please give us the courage to serve you with all of our heart, soul, and mind. Thank you for your never-ending grace and mercies. We ask this prayer in the Worthy Name of Jesus. Amen.

© Sonya Johnson Ruiz 2020, No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted for commercial purposes without the written permission of the author.

When they were safely out of the city, one of the angels ordered, “Run for your lives! And don’t look back or stop anywhere in the valley! Escape to the mountains, or you will be swept away! Genesis 19:17

Our lives provide a historical overview of our experiences, good or bad, and the responses to those situations. Whether we have embraced and enjoyed the good times, or created strategies and resolved severe issues, or maybe worsened our circumstances by poor decision-making or ignoring the problems, we have been shaped by those events and their outcomes.

It is the adversities that hit hard and leave us feeling like a deflated balloon. Hard times can leave us with weakened mindsets. But it is the trials and sorrows that reveal our limitations and direct us toward God, our Refuge. We can’t believe and know that God is our Jehovah Jireh when our goal is self-reliance. When God created us in His image, it was not his desire that we take on the burdens of life without His help.

So, if the answer is that easy, how do we end up feeling overwhelmed, fearful, and full of anxieties and worries?

If you begin a new job and the offer letter states your salary, you work without having real monies for at least 2-3 weeks. And why? Even though the employer is bound legally to provide compensation, you work without receiving pay because you have faith that the employer will come through on their promises. The employer-employee agreement extends beyond a binding legal contract. Both parties establish a relationship based on immediate faith and trust in each other.

And without faith, it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who earnestly seek him. Hebrews 11:6

Some of the possible reasons for our lack of faith in God:

1. We do know who God is. We acknowledge that He exists, yet we fail to establish and maintain a relationship with him.
2. We believe in our expertise and abilities. Our past may indicate that we made it through adversity, and we will pull through again.
3. We possess the sinful characteristics of pride, arrogance, impatience, and self-reliance. We lack an understanding of humility, nor do we know Christ’s character. “For even the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve others and to give his life as a ransom for many.” Matthew 28:20
4. We keep looking back, always reflecting on past hardships, and possess a great sense of hopelessness. We view our glass as half-empty. “Well, you don’t know what I have been through.”
5. Perhaps we do not understand what faith is or we have trust issues. We hear and read of faith, trust, hope; but we do not know how to apply the spiritual principles to our lives.

Faith is a 100% belief in God! Faith says that I have presented this situation to God through prayer, and I believe and trust that He will resolve the challenges in my life, and I will patiently wait for Him to fulfill His promises. 

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. For I am the LORD your God, the Holy One of Israel, your Savior… Isaiah 43:2-3

Faith looks forward! Keep your mind focused on the here and now.

Faith does not believe in our limited abilities. Faith believes that God is taking care of every situation, great or small. Faith believes that only He can make the impossible possible.

Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight.… Proverbs 3:5-6

Wait patiently for the LORD. Be brave and courageous. Yes, wait patiently for the LORD. Psalm 27:14

Bible Readings: Psalm 27, Proverbs 3

God, please give us the strength to endure the hardships in our lives. Although our faith is weak, we believe that you will help us to overcome when we trust in you. Thank you for hearing and answering our prayer that we ask in Jesus’ Name. Amen.

© Sonya Johnson Ruiz 2020, No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted for commercial purposes without the written permission of the author.