The 7th day Sabbath has always been controversial in the religious community. I have never found evidence in the Bible that God changed the Creation Sabbath to Sunday. Emperor Constantine was responsible for Sun worship–Sunday. Does the day matter? God says that the seventh day is Holy, so if it didn’t matter would He have blessed, made the seventh day holy, and rested from all His work?
Adam and Eve kept the Sabbath and they were not of Jewish descent. The only law abolished was the ceremonial law of sacrificing animals. When Jesus died on the cross, the veil between the Holy and the Holy of Holies ripped from top to bottom, indicating no need for earthly [human] priests any longer. Jesus is the sacrificial Lamb in heaven serving as humanity’s Intercessor.
I have been a Sabbath keeper for 50 years by choice. Why? Because I love God with all of my heart, soul, and mind. I believe that God never changed the holy day of worship. And because obedience to God is an absolute requirement to receive the reward of eternal life, I am siding with the Scriptures. My recommendation is to fast and pray about Saturday Sabbath observance. The Holy Spirit never fails to reveal the truth to those who are seeking it. Have a Happy and Blessed Sabbath!
“Thus the heavens and the earth, and all the host of them, were finished. And on the seventh day God ended His work which He had done, and He rested on the seventh day from all His work which He had done. Then God blessed the seventh day and sanctified it, because in it He rested from all His work which God had created and made.” (Genesis 2:1-3)
“Remember the Sabbath day, to keep it holy. Six days you shall labor and do all your work, but the seventh day is the Sabbath of the Lord your God. In it you shall do no work: you, nor your son, nor your daughter, nor your male servant, nor your female servant, nor your cattle, nor your stranger who is within your gates. For in six days the Lord made the heavens and the earth, the sea, and all that is in them, and rested the seventh day. Therefore the Lord blessed the Sabbath day and hallowed it.” (Exodus 20:8-11)
Preparing for Adversities in Advance Devotional Reading and Podcast
“This is the thing which I have spoken to Pharaoh. God has shown Pharaoh what He is about to do. Indeed seven years of great plenty will come throughout all the land of Egypt; but after them seven years of famine will arise, and all the plenty will be forgotten in the land of Egypt; and the famine will deplete the land.” (Genesis 41:28-30)
The story of Joseph includes two dreams given to Pharoah that his wise men could not interpret. In God’s divine plan for Joseph to rise to power, He gave Joseph the ability to discern Pharoah’s dreams. And he responded by promoting Joseph to second in command in Egypt.
At times, God will give a prior warning of the tribulation that will happen in our lives. Our relationship with Christ determines whether or not we recognize the voice of God, obey and make preparation, disregard the warning as a pessimistic thought or dismiss it as not applicable to us, and continue to function as normal.
“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)
We can agree that most adverse life events happen suddenly and take us by surprise. From sudden illness to loss of employment and many more, we cannot predict the future adversities that will impact our lives. But we can anticipate that unexpected hardships produce chaotic interruptions that require the strength of a rational mind and perseverance.
What is happening to our world? Biblical prophecies are rapidly being fulfilled.
Even the unbelievers realize that something is wrong and wholeheartedly agree that Earth is in a crisis. Natural disasters, famines, global warming, environmental waste, social issues, economic recession, increased violence, and COVID-19 are here to stay. As a result, some of the Gen Xers and many of the Millenials are seeking alternative housing. Homesteading, tiny homes, RV and Van life, and living in boat homes have become acceptable living options. The “New Rich” movement also focuses on minimalism and living debt-free.
Although relocation and living debt-free does not equate to having a relationship with Christ, at least the unbelievers are taking action. Believers, we have to awaken out of our spiritual sleep. Isn’t our goal eternal life? You and I are living in the last days of Earth’s history as we know it. Yet, many are distracted by the acquisition of material wealth, and studying the Bible is not a priority.
In Matthew chapter 24 and 2 Timothy, chapter 3, Jesus gives us prophetic signs and many have already come to fruition.
“As it was in the days of Noah, so will it be at the coming of the Son of Man. For in the days before the flood, people were eating and drinking, marrying and giving in marriage, up to the day Noah entered the ark. And they were oblivious until the flood came and swept them all away. So will it be at the coming of the Son of Man…” (Matthew 24:37-39)
“But know this, that in the last days, perilous times will come: For men will be lovers of themselves, lovers of money, boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy, unloving, unforgiving, slanderers, without self-control, brutal, despisers of good, traitors, headstrong, haughty, lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God, having a form of godliness but denying its power. And from such people turn away!” (2 Timothy 3:1-5)
“Not only that, but we rejoice in our sufferings, knowing that suffering produces endurance, and endurance produces character, and character produces hope, and hope does not put us to shame, because God’s love has been poured into our hearts through the Holy Spirit who has been given to us.” (Romans 5:3-5).
Remember that God is aware of every trial and sorrow we will face. God’s priority is to save our souls. The trials in our lives test the genuineness of our faith. Every wilderness experience serves to build our faith and trust in God and to produce a righteous character. Nothing happens by chance to believers, God only allows what is needed for spiritual growth. Hard times are part of God’s plan.
Living in the last days calls for a plan of action! Although we cannot prevent the adversities that come as a surprise, we can prepare in advance to maintain our faith in God and persevere during the hard times, especially the trials that seem to never end. Now is the time to commit yourself to God and worship Him every day through praise and worship, studying the Scriptures, and praying as you have never prayed before.
Jesus promises to give us strength in our weaknesses and the ability to perform our activities of daily living. Set aside some uninterrupted time daily for praise and worship. Ask the Holy Spirit to reveal mismanagement in your current lifestyle. Make your financial status a priority. Get out of debt and stop spending! Changing our mindset to reflect that “enough is enough” shows that we are actively practicing the stewardship principles of financial management over the resources given by God.
“Some trust in chariots, and some in horses; But we will remember the name of the LORD our God” (Psalm 20:7). Now is the time for an “I’m all in” commitment with Jesus Christ. Our adversities will not escalate to a crisis level when we have a thriving relationship with our Heavenly Father.
Reflection: What actions am I taking to ensure readiness for Jesus’ Second Coming?
Prayer: God, we pray for those who are in a spiritual state of lukewarmness in their relationship with Christ. We realize now is the time to prepare for Jesus’ Coming through the study of the Scriptures and praying without ceasing. We ask for the strength, presence, and power of the Holy Spirit upon every believer who is facing adversity. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
It’s All About the Details Devotional Reading and Podcast
At 12, I became aware of my creative sewing ability. I told my mother that I knew how to sew and asked her for a sewing machine. My mother did not question or verbalize doubt in my confidence to sew. She knew I had never worked with patterns, cut fabric, or touched a sewing machine.
Sewing was my niche, and I loved it. Yet, one thing bothered me about my finished garments, the inside seams appeared ragged. In that era, most clothing had seams cut with Pinking shears–scissors with saw-toothed blades that produced a zigzag finish. I started experimenting with different sewing techniques to give the inside of clothing a finished look. To this day, before purchasing any item, I carefully scrutinize the inside for a finished look. It’s all in the details.
Throughout the Bible, we have evidence that God’s primary concern is the condition of our hearts which is reflected by our character.
“Love suffers long and is kind; love does not envy; love does not parade itself, is not puffed up; does not behave rudely, does not seek its own, is not provoked, thinks no evil; does not rejoice in iniquity, but rejoices in the truth; bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things” (1 Corinthians 13:4-7).
“But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control. Against such, there is no law (Galatians 5:22-23).
“For there will never cease to be poor in the land. Therefore I command you, ‘You shall open wide your hand to your brother, to the needy and to the poor, in your land'” (Deuteronomy 15:11).
It’s All in the [Spiritual] Details
“…For the Lord does not see as man sees; for man looks at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart” (1 Samuel 16:7).
There are a group of Christians who do not participate in worldly activities, yet, their hearts do not possess the love of Christ. They attempt to disguise their flawed characters by clothing themselves in the finest garments, having perfect church attendance, and giving tithe and offerings. They have a form of godliness but serving God has evolved only into a weekly ritual.
Living comfortably, they smile and proclaim that God is good. Even so, they will not participate in the outreach activities of witnessing to others or community programs that focus on helping those in need. We only fool ourselves. God has a perfect knowledge of our hearts. Yes, we may impress others, but our hidden thoughts reveal to God there is no indication of a spiritual transformation.
Our works are evidence of our faith in God. The decision to become a Christian is a covenant vow. We commit ourselves through surrender and obedience. Jesus defines our earthly duty when he gave The Great Commission in Matthew 28:18-20 to His disciples.
John chapter 17 reveals Christians are modern-day disciples. Witnessing and helping others is every believer’s spiritual assignment. The world we live in does not care about the details of the lives of those who are in need. Disciples follow in Jesus’ path because He is our Role-Model.
We strive daily for a closer relationship with Christ through obedience, prayer, Bible study, faith, and trust. From doing our part, the Holy Spirit anoints us with His presence and power, and our character is slowly transformed into the likeness of Christ. Not only do we begin to think and behave differently, but the goodness of God is revealed by our love, joy, and peace.
Praise to our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, we are never alone in the struggle to live righteously. Sanctification is the lifelong transformation of our characters. And Jesus promises to finish our spiritual transformation until the day of His Second Coming. “…being confident of this very thing, that He who has begun a good work in you will complete it until the day of Jesus Christ…” (Philippians 1:6).
Our Heavenly Father is all about the details, always helping us by purging our hearts and characters.
King David’s Prayer: “Search me, O God, and know my heart: try me, and know my thoughts: And see if there be any wicked way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting.” (Psalm 139:23-24)
Changing Your Mind is the Solution Devotional Reading and Podcast
When you surrendered your heart to Jesus Christ were you aware that the Christian journey is the toughest challenge you would face? Becoming a follower of Jesus Christ requires a life of obedience to God, servitude to others, and suffering hardships. We require God’s love, grace, and mercies to sustain, protect, and give us joy, peace, and guidance to fulfill His plan for us: to live happy and healthy lives on earth and receive our reward of eternal life.
Just like our parents, Adam and Eve, who desired to be like God, we desire more than God’s plans to transform our characters in preparation for living righteously forevermore. Are we obeying God by doing His will? Do our mindset and lifestyles reflect that we are preparing for the second coming of Christ?
From the Old Testament to the New Testament, God is definitive in His requirements for Believers.
“Consecrate yourselves, therefore, and be holy, for I am the LORD your God.” Leviticus 20:7, “…but as He who called you is holy, you also be holy in all your conduct, because it is written, ‘Be holy, for I am holy.'” (1 Peter 1:15-16)
From the acceptance of worldly standards, we attempt to redefine holiness according to our desires. Like actors, we depict the appearance of godliness, but spiritually we are in a state of confusion. Compromise of godly standards has resulted in the loss of our joy and peace. To console ourselves that we are still Christians, we use our intellect to create a mythical gray area that allows us to select only some of God’s righteous principles. We trust in our judgment and see ourselves as living righteously. Because of our decision to only accept part of God’s truth, we are spiritually blinded to our sinful state.
Presumption: Behavior perceived as arrogant, disrespectful, and transgressing the limits of what is permitted or appropriate.
Despite the Apostle Paul’s description of perilous times in the last days [Refer to 2 Timothy 3, verses 1-5], our lifestyles reflect that we are committing the sin of presumption. We think that we have the time to fulfill our desires by pursuing our plans, and careers, having close relationships with unbelievers, accumulating earthly treasures, and living comfortable lifestyles. Our thoughts are not in alignment with God’s thoughts or biblical prophecies because we are living in the last days.
“And behold, I am coming quickly, and My reward is with Me, to give to everyone according to his work” (Revelation 22:12). Satan has further deceived us by using distractions [which are personalized to reflect our true desires] to not only compromise our relationship with Christ but to also disregard preparation for Jesus’ Second Coming.
Our Spiritual State: “And to the angel of the church of the Laodiceans write, ‘These things says the Amen, the Faithful and True Witness, the Beginning of the creation of God: ‘I know your works, that you are neither cold nor hot. I could wish you were cold or hot.'” (Revelation 3:14-15).
Yes, we are in a spiritual crisis! Self-reliance [a byproduct of pride] has produced a population of “believers” who feel they can achieve holiness through their efforts. Our definition of holiness will never be equal to God’s standard of holiness. Jesus tells us, “I am the vine, you are the branches. He who abides in Me, and I in him, bears much fruit; for without Me you can do nothing.” (John 15:5).
Without Divine Intervention, it is impossible to judge our lukewarm spiritual condition. We need the anointing and presence of the Holy Spirit to discern the truth of the Holy Scriptures, to reveal our sins, and guide us in our daily lives as we strive to stay on the Path of Righteousness.
The only solution to our spiritual dilemma is the human effort of Changing our Minds! to reflect total surrender and obedience to our Heavenly Father.
“‘For My thoughts are not your thoughts, Nor are your ways My ways,’ says the Lord. ‘For as the heavens are higher than the earth, So are My ways higher than your ways, And My thoughts than your thoughts.'” (Isaiah 55:8-9)
“Reverent fear refers to humble, respectful awe of God, which motivates us to live obedient, holy lives.” Author unknown
It is with a contrite spirit that we acknowledge, confess, and repent of our sins before God. Salvation does not have a gray area. There is no time left to continually deceive ourselves that we have time to repent just in case Jesus is coming soon. None can determine their time on earth. Without the Holy Spirit, our interpretation of our spiritual condition will always lead us astray.
Do not think or live as if you determine the days of your life. Making decisions that are in opposition to God’s will and plans for your life is disobedience which can only end in destruction. Everything that we are familiar with on this earth is temporary and definitely not worth dying for. Jesus gave His life so that we can live righteously now and eternally with Him in the New Heaven and New Earth.
Every step that we need to take to return to right standing with God requires the simple act of “Changing our Minds.”
Prayer: God, we confess that our minds and lifestyles are in opposition to Your will and plans for our lives. We are involved in the game of chance with our salvation. We ask forgiveness for redefining holiness according to our mindsets. God, let Your will be done in my life. We pray for the anointing, presence, and power of the Holy Spirit. We ask this prayer in the Worthy Name of Jesus. Amen.
The Brokenness of Valuing Wealth Devotional Reading and Podcast
Every aspect of our lives is based on uniform standards of measurement. Body and atmospheric temperatures, height, weight, clothing, shoe, human growth, development, weigh stations, diamonds, and other gemstones are weighed in metric carats. Still, the most critical measurement is in the air we breathe which is a mixture of different gases. The air in Earth’s atmosphere is made up of approximately 78 percent nitrogen and 21 percent oxygen which is essential to sustain human life.
According to the experts, standards of measurement ensure that measurements are uniform all over the world. Uniformity in measurements makes it possible for scientists to present their data in a way that is understood and accepted by all scientific communities irrespective of the location and language barrier.
One would think that we have enough standards, but we have added one more–Financial Wealth. We measure people by their family background, ethnicity, their careers, how high their position is on the corporate ladder, economic and social status, the communities they reside in, the homes and vehicles they own, the clothing they wear, and the influential people they know. All of these metrics have been created from humanity’s misconception of success, your value is determined by the wealth and prosperity you own.
The level of financial inequality around the world is staggering. According to a new Credit Suisse report, 47.8 percent of global household wealth is in the hands of just 1.2 percent of the world’s population. Those 62.5 million individuals control a staggering $221.7 trillion… https://www.statista.com/chart/11857/the-global-pyramid-of-wealth/
Using Financial Status to measure a person’s value is a globally accepted standard and supersedes governmental laws, moral codes, ethical standards, and religious laws. We will never truly know the people who have used their money to escape the consequences of wrongdoing.
Sadly, most of the world’s adult population has embraced this skewed standard: “A person’s financial wealth determines their value.” And how has this worldview impacted Christian believers? We have six generations of people who are emotionally broken and spiritually bankrupt. Our worries, anxieties, and insecurities are usually associated with our financial status.
Even young children are impacted by this satanic worldview of wealth. Those who do not have designer clothing and shoes are devalued by their peers. Recently I listened to a young boy around 10 years old sharing an experience of his classmates bullying him for his choice of generic sneakers. His answer was phenomenal, My parents and I use our extra money to help those who are poor and in need. His answer immediately stopped their harassment.
Jesus said, “Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy, and where thieves break in and steal.” –Matthew 6:19
The origin of our brokenness is that we were born into sin. Satan is aware of our innate weakness to never be content with the blessings that we have. And that’s how Mother Eve was deceived.
Our carnal desires will always gravitate toward earthly treasures. Those five senses encourage us to chase the things that exemplify financial worth. Truthfully, many individuals desire for others to praise and exalt them based on their external appearance of possessing great financial wealth.
“No one can serve two masters. Either you will hate the one and love the other, or you will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve both God and money.” (Matthew 6:24)
There is something about chasing wealth that is kept quiet, enough is never enough. And because of the insatiable desire for more, we become fragmented. Our priorities change. We lose our relationship with Christ and our spiritual foundation changes from standing on Jesus, the solid Rock to sinking in the sand.
When our identity is attached to tangible items, the result is emotional insecurity and spiritual separation, we are distracted and lose sight of whom God says we are. “But you are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, His own special people, that you may proclaim the praises of Him who called you out of darkness into His marvelous light…” (1 Peter 2:9).
When Jesus asked the man at the pool of Bethesda, “Do you want to be made well?” (John 5:6), He not only healed the man’s physical blindness, the man was made whole spiritually, mentally, and emotionally.
God does not desire that we exist in a state of brokenness. God created us to have happy, joyous, and healthy lives. To be made whole is based on the condition of obedience. We have to decide whether we will give up the worldview of accepting wealth as a measurement of humanity’s value along with our love and dedication to money.
When we understand Jesus’s love for us, we begin a spiritual journey of healing and transformation. The first thing that you notice is a change in the way you think. Through the study of the Scriptures, we find evidence that God loves us. Your value is based on whom God says you are. Are you valued by God? “For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life” (John 3:16).
The sacrificial offering of Jesus, God’s only Son for our redemption supersedes every worldview that threatens to diminish our worth. Amen!
Prayer: God, we pray for those who have lost their true identity and value which comes from You. We were created in Your image because You love us. We pray for the strength to overcome materialism and to let go of the worldviews that conflict with whom you say we are. We ask this prayer in the Worthy name of Jesus. Amen.
We Serve a God Who is Long-Suffering Devotional Reading and Podcast
“But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control. Against such, there is no law.” –Galatians 5:22-23
Whether one is familiar or not with the characteristics of the Fruit of the Holy Spirit, we are accountable for the human effort of doing our part to receive a spiritual transformation of our characters. We cannot change ourselves without the Divine intervention of the Holy Spirit.
Working for many years in Behavioral Health proved that clients who learned psychological theories and how to use rational thinking in their therapy sessions when faced with a challenging situation resorted to their usual unhealthy behaviors.
We are living in perilous times and have lost the desire to make positive changes. Our decision has led us to become a product of our environment. The unbelievers have convinced us that we do not have to change, it’s the other person’s fault if they cannot accept who you are. Many Christians agree with the worldview of accepting me for who I am, but we add a qualifier, “I am a work in progress.” Truthfully, their mindset is “I have been like this my entire life and I am just fine the way that I am.”
If we think that our character doesn’t matter, Human Resources will verify that companies hire individuals because of their skill set and the majority of terminations are due to poor character traits.
Impatience–The Consequences of this Bitter Characteristic
Impatience is a bitter fruit that has escalated into a global standard of strength. Just do it now is promoted as a characteristic that leads to success. We value fast tracks, microwaves, quick starts, impossible productivity standards, buy it today or lose out on this good deal, and living in a fast-paced environment where waiting will not be tolerated. Truthfully, many of us are guilty of impatience if standing in line and traffic gridlocks produce anger and wreck our entire day.
Our world was not created to be static. Still, the rapid pace of fast-forward has resulted in corporations and societies easily terminating long-term CEOs and employees for individuals who can rapidly produce innovative ideas that will take them into the future with the speed of light.
Sadly, we have a global population who are struggling to keep up with the swift pace of impatience. Our acceptance of this norm has led to a marked decline in healthy character traits and coping skills. The increase in mental and emotional disorders, anxiety, worry, depression, and suicidal ideations have escalated to pandemic proportions. Violent crimes caused by those who have suffered emotional breakdowns have created a wave of fear and helplessness. Yes, we are living in a world that is out of control.
“…Do not think of yourself more highly than you ought, but rather think of yourself with sober judgment… (Romans 12:3).
Perform an honest self-assessment. Are you part of the problem? Is impatience your motivator? Reflect on your lifestyle and home environment. Is it one of think fast, hurry up, and let’s go? Is tomorrow clouding your thoughts and preventing you from enjoying today? The reality that we are participating in the hurry-up culture requires immediate change.
One of the most destructive character traits to overcome is the bitter fruit of impatience. An impatient person’s heart has a garden filled with the weeds of self-importance, and disregard for others as evidenced by a spirit of annoyance, irrational thoughts, anger, rude behavior, and harsh, cutting words.
Believer alert! If your character includes impatience, you have an issue that is life-threatening to your relationship with Christ. The decision to make a positive change for yourself and your family is one that only you can make. Change requires self-awareness and humility, which is why spiritual growth does not occur in most people. Impatient people will lose out on receiving the reward of eternal life.
What is patience aka long-suffering? Patience or long-suffering is the ability and capacity to accept or tolerate delay without resentment, rancor, or complaints. Patience is a Fruit of the Spirit also known as long-suffering.
Throughout the Bible, we have examples of God’s trait of long-suffering with disobedient humanity. The Israelites wandered in the wilderness for 40 years. They were impatient, ungrateful, and had stubborn hearts. As a result, only two of the generation freed from enslavement, Joshua and Caleb were allowed to enter the Promised Land, and those under the age of 20.
We also have examples of men and women who possessed the trait of long-suffering, Noah, Daniel, Shadrach, Meshach, Abednego, Hannah, Ruth, and Job. To live a life of patience is one of the greatest testimonies that the spirit of God dwells in us and we are being transformed into the character of Christ.
We are blessed and highly favored that we serve a God who is long-suffering. Can you imagine the innumerable prayers from believers that the Holy Spirit receives and then acts as an Intercessor [Romans 8:26] presenting them to Jesus, our High Priest?
Although our focus was on patience, we must understand that God expects every believer to have all of the characteristics of the Fruit of the Spirit. God provides us with His Divine intervention to achieve spiritual growth. From the human effort of praying daily for the anointing, presence, and power of the Holy Spirit, we are empowered with spiritual strength to become transformed into the likeness of Christ who possesses every righteous characteristic.
Prayer: God, we ask forgiveness for the sin of impatience. We desire to be transformed into the likeness of Christ. Help us to realize that through our spiritual growth, we can serve as a living testimony that Jesus saves and changes us. We pray for the anointing, power, and presence of the Holy Spirit as we continue our earthly journey to prepare for Jesus’ soon coming. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.
Steps 2 Success with Spiritual Solutions 
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