Author: steps2successwithspiritualsolutions

I will tell everyone about your righteousness. All day long I will proclaim your saving power, though I am not skilled with words. Psalm 71:15 NLT

I can recall my 1st semester Nursing Professor in her introductory speech, warning us that becoming a nurse involved continuous and never-ending learning. She eagerly attempted to weed out the students that did not have a passion for the profession by encouraging us to withdraw from the program before it was too late. As students, we thought that she was a cruel and heartless individual; however, reflecting on my career, I came to realize that she was preparing us for our future responsibilities.

David was aged in years when he wrote Psalm 71; the psalmist reflects on his life as he views himself as being vulnerable and in a state of helplessness against his enemies. Remember that this is the same David who as a shepherd boy was responsible for taking care of his father’s sheep and goats, and relayed to King Saul that the same God who rescued him from the lions and bears would also allow him to overtake Goliath. 1 Samuel 17:32-37

Ecclesiastes 12:1 admonishes us to: Remember your Creator in the days of your youth, before the days of trouble comes and the years approach, when you will say, “I find no pleasure in them.”

Yes it is a definite advantage to have served God from a young child and have God order your steps through the progressive stages of life. Even so, we are able to begin at any stage in our lives to faithfully serve God.

It takes dutiful preparation on our part to deepen our relationship with God. Although we have natural tendencies to focus on our circumstances instead of focusing on God our Deliverer, we must not succumb to feelings of helplessness based on our stage in life, social or financial status. We must utilize each day to prepare for eternal life by continually studying the Word of God and praying to deepen our relationship with God.

Spiritually, we will always be on a continuous learning curve; the pursuit of knowledge and wisdom is required to prepare us for the greatest event of the future: The Second Coming of our Lord and Savior–Jesus Christ.

Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up. Galatians 6:9 NIV

Chapter for today: 1 Samuel 17

Prayer for today: Dear God, We ask you to give us strength as we prepare everyday to build a stronger and deeper relationship with you. We thank you for your love, your mercy, and your grace. We ask you for wisdom to make the right decisions in our lives as we prepare for your Second Coming. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.

Sonya Johnson Ruiz

Practical Messages for Impractical Times

As Jesus was sitting on the Mount of Olives, the disciples came to him privately. “Tell us,” they said, “when will this happen, and what will be the sign of your coming and of the end of the age?”

For many will come in my name, claiming, ‘I am the Messiah,’ and will deceive many. Jesus answered: “Watch out that no one deceives you.” Matthew 24:3-5 NIV

Then if anyone tells you, “Look, here is the Messiah,” or “There he is,” do not believe it. For False messiahs and false prophets will appear and perform great signs and wonders to deceive, if possible even the elect.
Matthew 24:23-24 NIV

The time has come for us to search the scriptures by diligently studying the Bible. We must utilize our time to educate our minds with God’s Word so that we are able to recognize false teachings.

Chapter for today: Matthew 24

Prayer for today: Dear God, We thank you for the Bible–your Holy Word. We ask you to forgive us of our sins and to fill us with your Holy Spirit. Lord, we ask for wisdom and we ask for understanding, as we study your Word, that we may not be deceived by false teachings and false prophets. Thank you for hearing and answering our prayer. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.

Sonya Johnson Ruiz

News Article from Huff Post

Then the Lord said to Elijah, Go to the east and hide by Kerith Brook, near where it enters the Jordan River. Drink from the brook and eat what the ravens bring you, for I have commanded them to bring you food. But after a while the brook dried up, for there was no rainfall anywhere in the land. 1 Kings 17:2-4, 7 NLT

Read 1 Kings 17

There are times when we will have an abundance and times when we will have little resources; even so, God has promised to always provide when we place our faith and trust in him. Yes, it is disappointing when our plans fail or when change occurs and we are faced with insurmountable problems. We may experience fear and even feel that God is not aware of what we are going through.

Just know that you are never forgotten! God is still the same God that sent birds to bring food for the prophet Elijah.

Our heartfelt prayers to God must be honest. God is already aware of your wavering faith, your fears, and your level of trust in Him. If you are afraid, then confess your fears to God in prayer. When we approach God with our brokenness, it is then that He unleashes his power and proves that He is faithful and just.

Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you. I will uphold you with my righteous right hand. Isaiah 41:10 ESV

In the midst of constant change, we can be assured that Jehovah-jireh, our provider, is steadfast in His promises to always take care of us.

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 Saviour…Isaiah 43:2-3 NLT

Prayer for today: Dear God, I know that you are aware of the challenges that I am facing in my life. I realize that I never should have relied on myself. I come to you confessing that I am afraid. Please forgive me for my doubt and unbelief. I desire for my faith and trust in you to grow and reach the level of steadfast and immovable. Thank you for hearing and answering my prayer. In Jesus’ name, I pray. Amen.

Sonya Johnson Ruiz

And my God will supply every need of yours according to his riches in glory in Christ Jesus. Philippians 4:19 ESV

So often we focus on the disappointments of yesterday or the uncertainties of tomorrow and miss God’s matchless gift to us: TODAY !!!!

Welcome each day as a gift from God.

*Dana Johnson Puller

Prayer for today: Dear God, I have been thinking about the challenges in my life instead of your wonderful blessings. I want to thank you for the breath in my body and allowing me to be alive, yet another day. You are great and I thank you for loving me, just as I am. In Jesus’ name, I pray. Amen.

Sonya Johnson Ruiz

*Introducing our newest Contributing Writer: Dana Johnson Puller, a Prayer Warrior, and devout Woman of God who faithfully studies the Word of God. She is not ashamed of the gospel of Jesus Christ, as she witnesses to others about God’s love and the plan of salvation. Dana loves to laugh; her hobbies include photography, crocheting, embroidery, and traveling.

Harper’s Ferry, West Va. Rail Station

Have mercy on me, Lord, for I am in distress. Tears blur my eyes. My body and soul are withering away. But I am trusting You, O Lord, saying, “You are my God! My future is in your hands. Psalm 31:9,14-15 NLT

At some point, we reach a crossroads in our lives where we are faced with a life-changing event. Whatever the challenge, we have the same opportunity as King David had; we are able to connect with God through our tears and heartfelt prayers.

At any point, we can begin to build a trusting relationship with our loving God. It is usually at the time of struggle that we finally realize that we are unable to solve our challenges without God. Even so, God patiently and lovingly waits for us to come to him.

Hear me as I pray, O Lord. Be merciful and answer me! My heart has heard you say, “Come and talk with me.” And my heart responds, “Lord I am coming.” Psalm 27:7-8 NLT

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

Challenge for today: Take a moment to reflect on the victories in your life. Acknowledge God’s favor on your life even though you may have failed to thank him for his grace and mercy.

Prayer for today: Dear God, we have reached the crossroads and must make the decision to trust in you or to continue to trust in our efforts. It is our desire to begin a steadfast and trusting relationship with you. We need you in the good times as well as the challenging times. Please hear our prayers and extend your mercies. We will obediently wait for your divine intervention. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.

Sonya Johnson Ruiz

Do not forsake wisdom, and she will protect you; love her, and she will watch over you. Wisdom is supreme; therefore get wisdom. Though it cost all you have, get understanding. Proverbs 4:6-7 NIV

The price of cocoa in making products has rapidly increased in the past few years. Candy makers were forced to make a decision in order to maintain their profit margin. The dilemma remained: What could they do to prevent the many consumer complaints that candy bars were getting smaller?

1. They could charge more for the same size candy bar.

2. They could reduce the size of the present candy bar and increase the price.

But wait, there are third and fourth options that have increased the profits of the candy makers:

3. Use less product and add air as a filler under the guise of “less calories,” which translates into a smaller candy bar; previous size: 2.07 oz; current size: 1.65 oz that represents a 26% price increase. Also utilize the marketing tactic to promote a healthier bar that only contains “250 calories and 11 grams of saturated fat.”

4. Produce “fun size or snack size” candy sold in bags which are usually 5 times the price of the original size bar.

The third and fourth options which involve the art of deception appear to benefit the consumer; however, we are paying the highest prices in the history of the candy bar which have less product and we are content to do so for the enjoyment of empty calories.

For most individuals, our daily lives involve a rapid and stressful pace. We crave the convenience of someone else already figuring out the problem so we can just move on to the next issue, and we are willing to pay for that convenience.

Last week, I used two store coupons, 40% and 50% off for two separate products. Because I was in a hurry, at checkout, I used the option to email the receipt. When I started my car, I had the nagging feeling to check the receipt. When I reviewed the receipt via my cellphone, I realized the 40% coupon was not applied to my purchase. As I sat in my car, I had a decision to make: either turn the car off, re-enter the store, question the transaction, and obtain my refund or forget about it and leave to perform my next errand.

I am still unable to comprehend why I had an internal conflict over a situation which involved seeking a refund for overpayment because the register failed to apply the discount that I was entitled to. I have come to realize that I am unable to pursue a life of convenience where the expectation is that someone else has already resolved the problem, or I simply choose to ignore my responsibilities.

God instructs us to seek wisdom and understanding as we face our daily challenges. When we ask for wisdom and to be filled with the Holy Spirit, the feeling that things are not what they appear to be, is actually the leading and guidance from God.

Our relationship with God is strengthened when we apply His instructions to every aspect of our daily lives.

Work hard so you can present yourself to God and receive his approval. Be a good worker, one who does not need to be ashamed and who correctly explains the word of Truth. 2 Timothy 2:15 NLT

Challenge for today: Study the Word of God; Pray for wisdom; and change your mindset and behaviors to reflect alignment with truth.

Prayer for today: Dear God, Please grant us wisdom and understanding as we approach the challenges of our daily lives. Help us to always be motivated to choose and do what is right, even if it means taking additional steps to achieve resolution. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.

Sonya Johnson Ruiz

Natural occurrence of a rock sculpted by nature…Camel Rock…in the desert of New Mexico.