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But now you must be holy in everything you do, just as God who chose you is Holy. For the Scriptures say, “You must be holy because I am Holy.” 1 Peter 1:15-16 NLT

I can remember riding the roller coasters at the amusement park; looking at the curves and the height of the tracks, feeling butterflies in my stomach as I stood in line, anticipating the excitement of the fast speed of the car. During the ride, I vowed to never ride again, only to get back in line for a second experience as soon as the ride ended.

There are many of us who are vascillating between living for God and enjoying the pleasures of the world. We love God, we study the Bible, pray daily, attend church, and yet our spiritual lives compare to a roller coaster ride.

When we commit sins, we ask for forgiveness, even so, we still desire the excitement of doing things outside of the realm of holiness.

There is “A Call to Holy Living”:

So prepare your minds for action and exercise self-control…So you must live as God’s obedient children. Don’t slip back into your old ways of living to satisfy your own desires. You didn’t know any better then. But now you must be holy in everything you do, just as God who chose you is Holy. For the Scriptures say, You must be holy because I am Holy. 1 Peter 1:13,14-16

For you know that God paid a ransom to save you from the empty life you inherited from your ancestors…It was the precious blood of Christ, the sinless, Spotless Lamb of God. 1 Peter 1:18-19

It is time for us to get off of the roller coaster. It is time to cast all of our worldly desires and behaviors aside.

What more can God do for us? There is no greater price paid than the blood of Jesus that was shed for the remission of our sins. We cannot forget the shame, the suffering, and the spilling of His most precious blood; His blood was for us; His blood prevents the second and final death; His blood offers us Eternal life, if we choose so through faith and obedience.

All that He asks of us, is to Live Holy. It takes Faith, Self-control and definitive Action on our part to live as obedient children. Whatever we need to cast aside to stop the highs and lows of an unstable spiritual life, we must commit to Holiness, because Jesus Christ will return again as King of King and Lord of Lords.

And Jesus said to him, “If you can? All things are possible to him who believes.” Mark 9:23 ESV

It is possible to live holy; yes, we will fail in our human state, even so the Holy Spirit makes us aware when we are getting ready to plummet into a spiritual low. It is our choice to serve God and there is only one way: Do not get on the Roller Coaster!

Challenge for today: Ask God to reveal the behaviors and desires that are preventing you from living Holy.

Prayer for today: Dear God, I have not been obedient to you for so long that I am unable to to get off of the roller coaster. I know that I am sinning against you by seeking after the things that I desire. Please forgive me for not using my time and my talents for your honor and your glory. I commit my life to you right now. I want to live Holy and I want Eternal Life. Thank you for giving your Son for me. Please allow me to have the faith that is necessary to get off of the roller coaster. In Jesus’ name, I pray. Amen!

Sonya Johnson Ruiz

Then Nebuchadnezzar was filled with Fury, and the expression of his face was changed against Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego. He ordered the furnace heated seven times more than it was usually heated. Daniel 3:19 ESV

As a believer, we usually have less than the world’s standards for material possessions. We have our share of mountain highs and valley lows. It appears to others that we are always experiencing some type of trial and tribulation, although we serve God. And yes, there are plenty of biblical accounts which reflect the sufferings and hardships of those who are faithful to God.

From experience, if the journey involves a rugged path, why do we continue to travel on this path? Surely there is an easier road that leads to a less tedious journey and a brighter future.

There are certain changes that occur in our lives when we travel the path paved with hardships:

1. We experience change; our character must align with Galatians 5:22-23, “But the fruit of the spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control; against such there is no law.”

2. We live with hope. We believe that our current earthly journey is temporary, and that Jesus will come again to give us a new home and eternal life.

Let not your heart be troubled, you believe in God, believe also in me. In my Father’s house are many mansions, if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you I will come again and receive you to myself, that where I am, there you may be also. John 14:1-3

3. We believe that we are never alone.

For he will command his angels concerning you to guard you in all your ways. Psalms 91:11

The Lord himself goes before you, he will be with you. He will never leave you or forsake you. Do not be afraid or discouraged. Deuteronomy 31:8

When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and when you go through the rivers, they will not overwhelm you. When you walk through the fire, you will not be scorched, and the flames will not set you ablaze. Isaiah 43:2

4. We accept that God’s standards for happiness are very different from the worldly standards for happiness.

Beloved, I pray that you may prosper in all things and be healthy, even as your soul prospers. 3 John 1:2

…Do not grieve, for the joy of the Lord is your strength. Nehemiah 8:10

And thou shalt rejoice in every good thing which the Lord thy God has given unto thee…Deuteronomy 26:11

Even so, we must distinguish the difference between sufferings for God and sufferings due to a continuous pattern of making the wrong choices, backsliding into the same situation once we have been delivered, or simply because we did not wait for God’s answers and solutions.

How can we avoid self-inflicted suffering? By staying rooted and grounded in a closer relationship with God through continuous prayer, and study of His Word.

God is with us…our challenge is to stay with God.

Challenge for today: Only suffer for God! Pray for guidance if you are unable to discern the difference.

Prayer for today: Dear God, We have endured many hardships in our lives. We ask you for the spiritual discernment to know the difference between self-inflicted suffering and suffering for you. We believe that you will give us strength to keep moving forward. In your Holy name, we pray. Amen.

Sonya Johnson Ruiz

Pray without ceasing!

Never stop praying!

Pray constantly!

1 Thessalonians 5:17

I listened to a song this morning that included the words, “I live life walking on my knees.” What a powerful way to express an ongoing relationship with God! What a powerful way to live!

In December, I committed to making changes in my life for the new year; not resolutions that would change based on my feelings or situations but developing achievable goals within set time frames.

There are Christians who believe that we should never set goals, or make plans for our lives. However, that mindset is not supported by biblical teaching. We are not to wander through life aimlessly.

Yes, ask me for anything in my name, and I will do it. John 14:14 NLT

Seek the kingdom of God above all else, and live righteously, and he will give you everything you need. Matthew 6:33 NLT

Because God tells us in Isaiah 55:8 (NLT):

“My thoughts are nothing like your thoughts,” says the Lord. “And my ways are far beyond anything you could imagine.”

First, we must present our desires, plans, and goals to God in prayer for approval; even so, our prayer must include the question: God what would you have me to do in my life?

I am happy to say that although God approved my goals, He rearranged and prioritized them according to His will. In our walk with God, we must pray for the abilities to recognize and correctly discern when the Holy Spirit speaks to us in that “quiet and still voice.”

It was only after I prayed a heartfelt prayer that God revealed His priority for my life: To walk on my knees.”

I share God’s answer because it is applicable to all believers. God requires us to maintain a humble spirit and a contrite heart to serve and honor Him. We are unable to perform good deeds to achieve the changes that are pleasing to God. We must walk through life on our knees!

Challenge for today: Make known to God the changes that you desire in your life and wait for His answer.

Prayer for today: Dear God, We thank you for always hearing and answering our prayers. Please help us to walk through life on our knees by constantly communicating with you through prayer over every aspect of our lives. We desire a closer relationship with you; we desire you to prioritize what really matters in our day-to-day lives; and we desire most of all to be able to hear the still and quiet voice of the Holy Spirit. We ask these blessings upon our lives in your Son’s name, Jesus. Amen!

Sonya Johnson Ruiz

Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says. James 1:22

The fellowship of believers is vital for spiritual growth. It is so important for the love of Christ to be displayed by speaking encouraging words, sharing testimonies, and praying for one another when we are experiencing the stressors of life events.

Although we are living in a time, of an ongoing demise of godly morals and values, an increase of violence, and government shutdowns, we cannot let those who do not believe shake our faith nor divert our focus from the Lord.

Surround yourself with individuals who are close to God and possess the ability to love others. You may have to rethink who is in your social circle. Christian belivers are strengthened when we are able to form a bond with others who share commonalities.We need the prayers and the emotional support of believers of the most High God.

Many times we simply reiterate that God has promised to never leave us nor forsake us. Even so, we are admonished to place the needs of others above our own needs. Our Christian duties extend beyond attending church services. True love displays itself by caring about others; by compassionately listening via a phone call, and face-to-face contact.

9 Don’t just pretend to love others. Really love them. Hate what is wrong. Hold tightly to what is good.

10 Love each other with genuine affection, and take delight in honoring each other.

13 When God’s people are in need, be ready to help them. Always be eager to practice hospitality.

Romans 12:9-10,13 NLT

Challenge for today: Someone needs for you to reach out to them.

Prayers for today: Dear God, We have been concerned about our own agendas. Please help us to reach out to our fellow believers who need to hear our voice, a prayer, and laughter. We ask you to show us how to love and care for our brothers and sisters in Christ. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen!

Sonya Johnson Ruiz

“Forget the former things; do not dwell on the past. See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it? I am making a way in the wilderness and streams in the wasteland” Isaiah 43:18-19

It’s Time for an Upgrade
How will your life change in 2019?

The Agony of CHOICE fuels the FEAR to CHANGE.

Refusal to upgrade leaves you stagnating in the past. We must crave what can be! Even God tells us to forget the past and Move Forward. It’s time for change.

Setbacks can become opportunities when we include God in our plans. Human effort combined with Divine power allows us to accomplish all things.

Where there is no vision, the people perish…Proverbs 29:18

God wants to give you something new in your life.

See it!
Say it!
Seize it!

2019 is the time for your personal upgrade.

Challenge for today: Present your fears to God in prayer.

Prayer for today: Dear God, I desire to do something new in my life for 2019. I want to upgrade my lifestyle by having a better character, the right attitude and the right mindset. I am ready to work for you by committing my life to hasten your Second Coming. Please help me to develop goals for my life. I am ready for something new! In Jesus’ name, I pray. Amen!

Chapter for today: Isaiah 43

Sonya Johnson Ruiz

Trust in the LORD with all your heart; do not depend on your own understanding. Seek his will in all you do, and He will show you which path to take. Proverbs 3:5-6 NLT

Recently I watched an impromptu skit on trusting in the Lord. The Pastor asked for a volunteer and a young man came forward whose name was Rick. The pastor explained to Rick that the four individuals who were on the stage would catch him when he fell. The participants assumed their positions with the four individuals standing behind Rick. They eagerly awaited with outstretched arms to catch their falling victim. Much to everyone’s surprise, Rick fell forward instead of backwards into the waiting arms of the human safety net.

I must admit when I watched Rick fall forward, I began to laugh, and stated aloud, “Who would be so stupid as to fall forward when the people are behind you?” Unfortunately Rick’s understanding of what he was supposed to do led him to fall forward.

As absurd as the young man falling forward appears, how many of us are in the same position as Rick?

We live in a time where self-help and making accomplishments based on our own thoughts and actions are viewed as having courage and strength. Do you remember the cliche, “Self-made millionaire?”

However, when we rely on our own understanding, we begin to Trust in our own knowledge and discernment to support us through life. Jeremiah 17:9 tells us, “The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked: who can know it?” Our own sinful nature cannot be relied on.

We must make the decision to completely have a bold confidence in God. We must acknowledge that His perfect will leads to victory or face the consequences of falling forward.
“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

When we place our aspirations, our problems, and our complete trust in God; He is our Safety Net. We can live day-to-day with a “No Worries Ever” mindset.

Challenge for today: Boldly place your confidence in God’s hands and watch for the miraculous changes in your life.

Prayer for today: Dear God, I have been relying on my own understanding instead of trusting in you. I desire for my weak faith and trust to change into a bold confidence. I am tired of falling forward. Please fogive me for not trusting in your promises to never leave me or forsake me. As of right now, I make the decision to totally rely on you. Thank you for being my Safety Net. In Jesus’ name, I pray. Amen!

Chapter for today: Proverbs 3 NLT

Sonya Johnson Ruiz

Rejoice in the LORD always. I say it again: Rejoice! Philippians 4:4 NIV

Don’t love money; be satisfied with what you have. For God has said, “I will never fail you. I will never abandon you.” Hebrews 13:5 NLT

Yesterday, I had the most wonderful conversation with my cousin, who also is my spiritual sister. We spoke about the goodness of God and how our lives should reflect our faithful relationship with Him.

As Christians, we have everything that we need to keep our spirit in a perpetual state of rejoicing. So why are we fluctuating between joy and despair, vascillating between belief and unbelief, and acquiring more character defects than growing with the “Fruit of the Spirit”?

The answer is simply that we are unaware of God’s commands which keep us steadfast and immovable.

If we are building a house in an area that is known for high wind gusts and seasonal tornados then we would expect for the foundation to be made with poured concrete as opposed to using concrete blocks for the house to sit on top of. The blocks would not provide the stability required for safe housing.

The Foundation for our relationship with God is built by consistently Studying the Bible; Praying without Ceasing; Possessing unwavering Faith, and actively Practicing dutiful Obedience.

God’s Word is complete: The Bible contains His commands and promises along with real-life accounts of human victories and defeats, miracles, Jesus’ autobiography from birth to death to resurrection to His Ascension, the Creation story and a beautiful nonfiction description of the New Heaven.

This is a new year, and an opportunity to give thanks to God for His Faithfulness everyday that we have the breath of life.

Rejoice Saints of the Most High God!

Pray heartfelt Prayers, Sing melodious Songs, Proclaim words of Thanksgiving, Clap praises with your Hands, Move your feet in a spiritual Dance and Rejoice…Rejoice…Rejoice!

Let us give our Utmost to our Highest!

Challenge for today: Restart your day by honoring God with praise and worship right now.

Prayer for today: Dear God, I am so grateful for your love, your grace, and your mercy. You are the greatest Father, the best Mood stabilizer, the Giver of all things, and the only true Peace maker. I commit to learning your commands and promises daily by studying your Holy Word. Please forgive me for my unbelief. In Jesus’ name, I pray. Amen!

Chapter for today: Hebrews 13

Sonya Johnson Ruiz

Restore to me the joy of your salvation, and make me willing to obey you. Psalm 51:12 NLT

I love estate sales, especially those that run from Thursday-Sunday. When I was a novice, I would always be at the location on Thursday morning for the opening, because it thrilled me to have the opportunity to be one of the first to select the best items.

Imagine my surprise, when I just happened to attend a sale on a Sunday, and was informed that all items were being sold for 50% off or best offer. In fact, discounted prices and negotiations are the standard for Sunday’s on the estate sale circuit. At the sale, I purchased two solid wood pieces of accessory furniture; an oak corner cabinet and a mahogany side table for $20 total. I left the sale feeling great; I gained the knowledge that I could purchase quality items for pennies on the dollar just due to a change of day from Thursday to Sunday.

One of my hobbies is doing makeovers on furniture by using minor restoration techniques. I decided to purchase an expensive burgundy stain-varnish to change the colors to match the decor of my living room. It was not an easy task. It was a hot summer working on my porch surrounded by tarp, sandpaper, rags, brushes, cans of varnish, and sweat cloths. The makeover was more complex than I had anticipated: Hand sanding with two different grits of sandpaper for several days; wiping and cleaning with a prep solution; using the right pressure to avoid brush marks and waiting three days for the smell of the varnish to dissipate before the furniture could be brought inside. All the effort was worth it when I saw the final result!

When we think of the expensive price that Jesus paid with his life to redeem and restore us by providing the pathway to Salvation; there should be no limits on what we are willing to do by totally surrendering ourselves to have the inperfections of our character sanded away and varnished with His precious blood.

When we submit through faith and obedience and place ourselves in the Master’s hands, He will perform a complete Restoration in our lives. Oh yes, there are no shortcuts, we must submit ourselves to the lifelong process of Sanctification. We must endure the sanding from the fine grit along with the coarse grit of the sandpaper in order for us to be restored to God’s standards.

The consistent covering of Jesus’ blood combined with our faith, obedience, and trust that He is able to give us complete Restoration, enables us to look forward to the final result-Eternal Life.

Hallelujah, thine the glory! Hallelujah, Amen!

Challenge for today: Ask God to give you a makeover that will bring complete Restoration in your life.

PRAYER for today: Dear God, I need the imperfections of my character sanded away. I desire a major makeover from you that will provide a complete Restoration for my life. I love you and I want the blessings that come from serving you, including Eternal Life. In Jesus’ name, I pray. Amen!

Sonya Johnson Ruiz