Category: Uncategorized

“Living the Dream”

There is more than enough room in my Father’s home. If this were not so, would I have told you that I am going to prepare a place for you? John 14:2 NLT

I was recently at an estate sale and overheard a conversation that began with “How are you?” In response, the person stated in an upbeat manner, “Living the dream.” It was as if time had stopped. We waited for further clarification of the dream; was it an abundance of money, a great job, good health? However, he never said another word as all eyes watched this stranger jubilantly walk away.

Living the dream is a subjective state of mind. No two individuals will replicate the meaning of what the dream is to them. My interpretation of living the dream may be tied to significant interaction with my family, enough money to pay the bills, the enjoyment of being retired, or experiencing a pain-free day.

From a spiritual perspective, Eternal Life should be our dream and every thought and action should reflect this desire. Even though we are told in John 14 and Revelation 21 that Christ is preparing a new home for us, many have lost hope in this promise. We are putting most of our time and energy in the pursuit of secular dreams–tangible things that will eventually be destroyed. Do we really understand God’s promise of “a new heaven and a new earth?” If yes, then we live for God and strive for Eternal life, which is through sanctification, wholly committing ourselves daily to God.

The thought-provoking statement of “living the dream” has me seriously thinking about the changes I need to make in my spiritual journey. Unlike working to obtain “the dream” from a worldly perspective, I am unable to do good works to receive Eternal Life. It was not a coincidence that I heard the stranger’s response. There are changes that I need to make in my life if I desire to hear Jesus say, “Well done.” Thank you, God, for getting my attention-my commitment to you needs major improvement.

© Sonya Johnson Ruiz 2020

Romans 12

Practical Messages for Impractical Times

We often think of ourselves as embracing diversity based on obvious characteristics; ethnicity, religious beliefs, culture, etc. However, are you really able to love those who express different opinions or subscribe to alternate morals or value systems? What about the individuals whose life experience surpasses your own? All of these scenarios invite the opportunity for conflict due to the opposition to our own beliefs.

Romans 12: 9-21 presents God’s instructions for embracing diversity. “Don’t just pretend to love others…”

Dear God, I am guilty of pretense. I have not embraced diversity according to your standards. I confess my sins and ask forgiveness. In Jesus’ name, I pray. Amen

Sonya Johnson Ruiz

God’s Original Plan

Have you ever looked at a beautiful picture which relects nature and wished you could live there?

When God created the earth, He did not intend for us to live in a cramped city environment. Our bodies were created to be in motion, and consume a plant based diet. Because we have not followed His plan, we suffer with many diseases of the mind and body.

When is the last time you heard the birds sing or enjoy a refreshing gentle breeze? When have your children or grandchildren been able to run on grass, pick flowers, or enjoy a camping trip?

It’s never too late for change. Many questions may come to your mind mostly involving finances. If pure country living is part of God’s original plan, won’t He provide for you to make the transition? I am praying for Divine Intervention for all of us. I prefer the melodious singing of birds as opposed to the sound of screeching police sirens.

Dear God, please give us the desire to live as you intended for us to live. Amen

Sonya Johnson Ruiz

All the Wrong Choices

Don’t you realize that your body is the temple of the Holy Spirit, who lives in you and was given to you by God? You do not belong to yourself. 1 Corinthians 6:19 NLT

The Epistle of John includes recognition of the importance of good health: “Beloved, I pray that in every way you may prosper and enjoy good health, as your soul also prospers. 3 John 1:2

As I reflected on my historical battle with food, my dilemma began in childhood. The maternal side of my genealogy included an acquired taste for fried foods, gravies, unclean meats, and rich desserts. As a result, our family history includes Heart disease, Hypertension, Diabetes, and Kidney problems. The majority of our family has one of the previously mentioned diagnoses, and is carrying the above recommended weight, even including a morbid obesity status.

The struggle is real. However, God promises us that He will provide a way out of temptation. Yesterday, I was invited to dine at Olive Garden. Although, this would never be my personal restaurant of choice; I acquiesced to please one of our elderly church Mothers. When I looked at the menu, my brain initiated the “get that food right now” process. My mouth watered as I looked at the enticing pictures of pastas ( heavily laden) with creamy sauces and mountains of cheese. Then God provided my way out. I began to look at the high calorie counts which included a high sodium and fat content(not listed on their menu-already prepared foods are high in fat and sodium) which would use up my weekly allocation. I ordered a vegetable flatbread which included unlimited salad. I strategized by heaping a large portion of salad on my plate and allowed myself only one of the scrumptious breadsticks. My downfall was the after dinner chocolate mints which I ate and enjoyed.

I am not fooling myself nor am I placing myself in a self-righteous mindset. My victory from making poor food choices is a daily struggle. I pray constantly to overcome the demon of appetite. However, I believe that I can do all things through Christ, who strengthens me. The journey to optimal health continues, but, it requires active and willful participation.

The benefits that I have received from sacrificing:

1. 40 lb weight loss

2. Energy to maintain an active lifestyle.

3. Change in my outlook on life: no more negativity.

4. Most importantly, I have the desire to study God’s Word, and pray for guidance before making any decision.

When I do what is expected, God will lead me to the path of victory. I am grateful that He will never fail.

Sonya Johnson Ruiz