The Earth is the Lord’s, and everything in it, the world and all who live in it. Psalm 24:1
Good morning, I had to share this breathtaking picture. Although, the pandemic has curtailed many vacation plans, we can take virtual excursions that provide a much needed break from the busyness of our lives.
This picture was tweeted out by the US Department of the Interior, @Interior. It was taken at Mount Rainier State Park in Washington state. It is the result of rain falling on snow, giving it the appearance of whipped cream.
Photo credit: Scott Krantz Reposted from Rick Mitchell, Journalist, NBC5 News
Thank you God for a glimpse of the beauty that still exists in your world. God, you are awesome. Amen
The human heart naturally gravitates toward fear, anxiety, and worry when we cannot resolve our challenges. Although we verbalize that we fully trust in God, prolonged adversity can leave us with doubt. We become uneasy and focus on our circumstances. Even David, who killed bears, lions, and the giant, Goliath was honest when he expressed his fears, Whenever I am afraid, I will trust in you. Psalm 56:3. God is aware that our hearts are fragile and that we would cave into the hardships of life.
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 AMP
Diligent study of the Bible provides us with the knowledge of who God is and allows us to become familiar with humanity’s victories and defeats. Having a personal relationship with God is the only way to trust in Him when faced with tribulations.
When the servant of the man of God got up and went out early the next morning, an army with horses and chariots had surrounded the city. “Oh no, my lord! What shall we do?” the servant asked. “Don’t be afraid,” the prophet answered. “Those who are with us are more than those who are with them.” And Elisha prayed, “Open his eyes, LORD, so that he may see.” Then the LORD opened the servant’s eyes, and he looked and saw the hills full of horses and chariots of fire all around Elisha. 2 Kings 6:15-17.
We do not have to be a prophet for God to hear and answer our prayers. The theme of the Bible is the love of God. His love is endless for those that He created from the dust of the ground. We belong to God, and oh how He loves you and me. When we humble ourselves and pray, through His Divine intervention, God unleashes His power. I will answer them before they even call to me. While they are still talking about their needs, I will go ahead and answer their prayers! Isaiah 65:24
God is asking us, “Do you trust me?” The key to possessing total trust in God: And you must love the Lord your God with all your heart, all your soul, and all your strength. Deuteronomy 6:5. It is our love for God that produces faith–believing that if God said it, then He will do it.
We were created to depend on God. Children run to their parents when they are afraid.
Jesus invited a little child to stand among them. “Truly I tell you,” He said, “unless you change and become like little children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven. Therefore, whoever humbles himself like this little child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven.” Matthew 18:2-4
“Do you trust me?” Changing our mindset to become like children allows us to answer God’s question with a resounding “Yes, God, I trust you!”
“Be strong and courageous. Do not fear or be in dread of them, for it is the Lord your God who goes with you. He will not leave you or forsake you.” Deuteronomy 31:6.
Happy Sabbath!
Bible Study: 2 Kings 6
Heavenly Father, we admit that we have relied too much on ourselves. We ask forgiveness for overconfidence in our ability to solve challenges. We are feeling weary and pray for your Divine intervention. Thank you for reminding us that you are always here for us. As we honor you on this Sabbath day, we pray for the blessings of peace and joy. We ask this prayer in the Worthy Name of Jesus. Amen.
You cannot spend day after day in the world without its affecting your mind and will and heart. It doesn’t take long to become disoriented to the ways of God. The world has a dulling effect on your spiritual sensibilities. God established the Sabbath, so His people could take an entire day to refocus on Him and His will for them after spending six days in the world. Today’s Devotional-Experiencing God Day-by-Day
Have we reached this conclusion? God desires that humanity receive the fruits of His love: grace, mercy, provisions, and protection. Have we allowed ourselves to become so distracted this week that we failed to praise and worship God? It is with intent and purpose that we continuously thank God because; Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows. James 1:17
Bountiful blessings gifted without merit! Behold what manner of love the Father has given to us, that we should be called children of God. And that is what we are! The reason the world does not know us is that it did not know Him. 1 John 3:1
We receive above and beyond what we rightfully deserve. What about the sacrifice that Jesus, our Precious Savior, gave? He laid down His life for us! The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy. I have come that they may have life and have it in all its fullness. I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down His life for the sheep. John 10:10-11
What will it take for us to improve our memory? We should keep a daily log of the blessings that we receive? Every day, morning, and evening offer prayers of thanksgiving to gain a greater appreciation for our Father, who loves us unconditionally. This Sabbath, make a new commitment: Increasing our time in prayer, praises, and thankfulness to God: I will bless the LORD at all times; his praise shall continually be in my mouth. Psalm 34:1. Amen.
Bible Study: 1 John 3:1
God, we want to say thank you for the Sabbath, your love, and your bountiful blessings. In Jesus’ Name, we pray. Amen.
The desire to have relationships is innate. When we read the Creation story in Genesis, even God said, “Then the LORD God said, “It is not good for the man to be alone. I will make a helper who is just right for him.” Genesis 2:18. In our pursuit to find the one who is just right for us, we often compromise. Yes, we are selective in our choice. Still, the person is not suitable for us according to God’s standards.
Do not be yoked together with unbelievers. For what do righteousness and wickedness have in common? Or what fellowship can light have with darkness? 2 Corinthians 6:14
Being unequally yoked extends well beyond our desire to have a romantic relationship. Our social circle of friends, along with family members, are also included in God’s command to separate from, if they are unbelievers. You may think, but how is it possible to exclude my biological family? The separation may not occur as in the physical location. You may live in the same home. The separation from unbelievers occurs on a much deeper level, spiritually.
Reflect on the unbeliever’s mindset, morals, values, conversation, habits, and the places they visit. Their lifestyle and choices have nothing to do with serving God.
What harmony can there be between Christ and the devil? How can a believer be a partner with an unbeliever? 2 Corinthians 6:15
The other day, I was involved in a conversation with a family member who shared a situation with me. She confesses that God has changed her life, yet, the words that flowed from her mouth did not convey righteousness. Many are intimidated, or we ignore when our family and friends share their wrongdoings with us because:
We accept them as “thats just the way they are.”
We have no interest in witnessing to others.
We have not studied the Bible, so what we say is only our opinion.
To complete the story, she became angry and stated, “Don’t preach to me!” And that is when God allowed me to face a crossroads, “And if it is evil in your eyes to serve the LORD, choose this day whom you will serve, whether the gods your fathers served in the region beyond the River, or the gods of the Amorites in whose land you dwell. But as for me and my house, we will serve the LORD.” Joshua 24:15.
As much sorrow as my human heart could bear, I was saddened by her outburst of not accepting God’s truth. But when praying for comfort, the Holy Spirit spoke to me and told me not to take this personally. Her declaration was against God. “The one who hears you hears me, and the one who rejects you rejects me, and the one who rejects me rejects him who sent me.” Luke 10:16. Remember, when witnessing to others, if they are not willing to accept God’s truth, we continue to pray for them and move forward in the Name of Jesus.
It is painful to separate ourselves from those that we love. Even so, our spiritual walk with God is a tough journey, and we need to have a close association with believers who can pray with us and share God’s love and precious promises. Satan will attempt to distract us from having an up-close and personal relationship with God. We know how the story ends, read Revelation the 20th chapter.
Some of you may wonder why I choose to share my personal experiences with temptations and trials. Each of us who has committed to serving God will have a life full of suffering and sorrows. Sharing our real-life experiences enables us to spread hope. God loves us, and He will always bring us through no matter what we are facing if we just faithfully believe and always trust in Him. What is our goal? To receive our reward of Eternal life in the New Heaven and New Earth!
To remind us that we are not alone in our struggles, God allowed me to read this scripture found in 2 Corinthians today.
We are pressed on every side by troubles, but we are not crushed. We are perplexed but not driven to despair. We are hunted down but never abandoned by God. We get knocked down, but we are not destroyed. Through suffering, our bodies continue to share in the death of Jesus so that the life of Jesus may also be seen in our bodies. 2 Corinthians 4:8-10
Please begin to study the Bible. Oh, how He loves you and me. Hallelujah! Praise God!
Bible Study: 2 Corinthians 4
Prayer: O Lord our God, we are asking you to reveal your love to us. We desire to witness and tell others that there is another way to live. Thank you for your great sacrifice and the plan of redemption. Please heal our brokenness and give us the strength and courage to continue through life’s journey. We ask for an increase in faith and trust in you. In Jesus’ Name, we pray. Amen.
In everything give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you. 1 Thessalonians 5:18
As I reflected on the adversities throughout my lifespan, I realize that I have a lot to thank God for. After hearing a few virtual sermons on praise and thanksgiving, I have concluded that God has an extraordinary love for humanity. The LORD appeared to us in the past, saying: “I have loved you with an everlasting love; therefore I have drawn you with loving devotion.” Jeremiah 31:3
Our challenging journey should not be a surprise because we were forewarned: “These things I have spoken to you, that in Me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation; but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world.” John 16:33
If you interviewed for a job where the interviewer said, “this will be the hardest job that you will have ever worked on,” would you accept the position? Jesus told us that our spiritual walk with Him would be a tumultuous journey. Even so, He promises us peace and inner joy when we fully rely on Him as our Lord and Savior.
Remember, God is Omniscient—all knowing! He allows tough times for our benefit. Character refinement and spiritual growth are necessary to prepare us for Eternal life. We are usually caught off-guard by the change in our circumstances, but nothing comes as a surprise to our Heavenly Father, who consistently reminds us to depend on Him. I will answer them before they even call to me. While they are still talking about their needs, I will go ahead and answer their prayers! Isaiah 65:24
At times, we may wonder, “Where is God?” Throughout our lives, God has always been available to deliver us from our trials and tribulations. Our path to victory must include prayer, diligent Bible study, praise, listening to inspirational music, patience, along with unquestioning faith, trust, and obedience.
So what is the purpose of our adversities? There is no other way to grow strong spiritually than to go through trials.
We can rejoice, too, when we run into problems and trials, for we know that they help us develop endurance. And endurance develops strength of character, and character strengthens our confident hope of salvation.And this hope will not lead to disappointment. For we know how dearly God loves us because he has given us the Holy Spirit to fill our hearts with his love. Romans 3:3-5
Now we can look inwardly and question ourselves, “Why am I not rejoicing if I will reap the benefits of a character that is pleasing to God, and unwavering faith?” There is something that I really love about the Godhead, God the Father, Jesus our Savior, and the Holy Spirit, our Guide, and Comforter. They are always available to comfort and strengthen us when we are weary. God does not allow trials and sorrows to batter us to the point that we feel like we are shipwrecked on a deserted island.
“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
Commitment to God requires walking on the narrow path. A believer’s journey is preplanned. Becoming a follower equates to strict obedience to God’s way because He does not compromise. It is worth it to give our earthly burdens over to the Creator. We are promised a bright future filled with hope, peace, and joy when we trust and obey. Yes, the trials are tough, even so, we have the love, grace, and mercy from our Heavenly Father who knows and cares.
And the God of all grace, who called you to his eternal glory in Christ, after you have suffered a little while, will himself restore you and make you strong, firm, and steadfast. 1 Peter 5:10
Bible Study: 1 Peter 5
God, we thank you for always being available when we are going through tough times. Please help us to remember that you will never leave or forsake us. We pray for an increase in our faith and to always trust in your perfect plan. We ask this prayer in the Worthy Name of Jesus. Amen.
“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
Anxious, depressed, or worried? Align yourself with the will of God by changing your desires and prayers. The name of the LORD is a strong tower; the righteous run to it and are safe. Proverbs 18:10. Being in the perfect will of God always ends in victory!
Are you familiar with this quip? “Nothing beats a failure, but a try” The problem with witty sayings or one-liners is they promote self-reliance. And then, when we fail, we become downtrodden and discouraged.
In studying the Bible, we cannot find scriptures that resemble the witty, one-liners that we frequently hear and attempt to incorporate into our daily lives. One of the most significant proclamations of defeat is, “I’m trying to change.” Yes, human effort is required along with God’s Divine Intervention. Even so, it is not choosing either human effort or divine intervention. We must decide, pray, and make a covenant with God to be faithful and obey by following all of His commandments. Our relationship with God is one of total dependency on God.
So let’s say that you have a habit that you have “been trying to stop.” Let’s use anger as our example. You have attended Anger Management classes or read self-help books, and watched many videos on curtailing anger, yet, you still have a vicious anger management problem.
The root of the problem is your spiritual relationship with God, and no other book but the Bible will instruct you to live holy and righteously. So you may think, but God gave us anger as an emotion. Yes, He did! Imagine that we did not have anger, then we would have complete tolerance for human trafficking, child molestation, rape, scams, embezzlement, social injustices, and other heinous crimes. God did not give us anger to lash out at other individuals. We were given anger, so we will feel like rubbing alcohol is being poured on an open wound when evil manifests itself without boundaries.
I encourage you to think very seriously about the habits and character traits that you are “trying to get rid of.” Many modern sermons include “inclusivity,” if we just believe that God exists, we are guaranteed eternal life. But we know the scriptures do not support this false teaching. Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship. Romans 12:1
The Word of God is definitive in the habits and traits that will exclude us from our heavenly reward:
You should know this, Timothy, that in the last days there will be very difficult times. 2 For people will love only themselves and their money. They will be boastful and proud, scoffing at God, disobedient to their parents, and ungrateful. They will consider nothing sacred. They will be unloving and unforgiving; they will slander others and have no self-control. They will be cruel and hate what is right. They will betray their friends, be reckless, be puffed up with pride, and love pleasure rather than God. They will act religious, but they will reject the power that could make them godly. Stay away from people like that! 2 Timothy 3:1-5
“But cowards, unbelievers, the corrupt, murderers, the immoral, those who practice witchcraft, idol worshipers, and all liars—their fate is in the fiery lake of burning sulfur. This is the second death.” Revelation 21:8
God is aware of humanity’s limitation to try but fail without His help. Do your part by confessing and repenting of the sinful habits and traits that will keep you from being an “Overcomer.” It is possible to live holy:
Do you not know that your bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own; you were bought at a price. Therefore honor God with your bodies. 1 Corinthians 6:19-20
Then if my people who are called by my name will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, I will hear from heaven and will forgive their sins and restore their land. 2 Chronicles 7:14
Commit everything you do to the Lord. Trust him, and he will help you. Psalm 37:5
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
I can (and will) do all things through Christ, who strengthens me. Philippians 4:13
Saints of the Most-High God, rely on God for the spiritual transformation required to change your undesirable habits/traits. When tempted, begin to pray out loud, remove yourself from the temptation, and continue to pray for strength. The temptations in your life are no different from what others experience. And God is faithful. He will not allow the temptation to be more than you can stand. When you are tempted, he will show you a way out so that you can endure. 1 Corinthians 10:13
Bible Study: Psalm 37, Revelation 21 and 22
God, thank you for creating the Sabbath to enjoy physical, mental, emotional rest and spiritual renewal. You have given us 24 hours to shut out all secular activities and time to focus on growing closer to you. We admit that we need spiritual refreshment every day in our earthly journey. Please forgive us for our sins. We ask to be filled with the Holy Spirit and to seek you above all else. We pray for your strength and power to rid ourselves of ungodly habits and to live holy and acceptable lives. We ask this prayer in the Worthy Name of Jesus. Amen.
Are you familiar with this quip? “Nothing beats a failure, but a try” The problem with witty sayings or one-liners is they promote self-reliance. And then, when we fail, we become downtrodden and discouraged.
In studying the Bible, we cannot find scriptures that resemble the witty, one-liners that we frequently hear and attempt to incorporate into our daily lives. One of the most significant proclamations of defeat is, “I’m trying to change.” Yes, human effort is required along with God’s Divine Intervention. Even so, it is not choosing either human effort or divine intervention. We must decide, pray, and make a covenant with God to be faithful and obey by following all of His commandments. Our relationship with God is one of total dependency on God.
So let’s say that you have a habit that you have “been trying to stop.” Let’s use anger as our example. You have attended Anger Management classes or read self-help books, and watched many videos on curtailing anger, yet, you still have a vicious anger management problem.
The root of the problem is your spiritual relationship with God, and no other book but the Bible will instruct you to live holy and righteously. So you may think, but God gave us anger as an emotion. Yes, He did! Imagine that we did not have anger, then we would have complete tolerance for human trafficking, child molestation, rape, scams, embezzlement, social injustices, and other heinous crimes. God did not give us anger to lash out at other individuals. We were given anger, so we will feel like rubbing alcohol is being poured on an open wound when evil manifests itself without boundaries.
I encourage you to think very seriously about the habits and character traits that you are “trying to get rid of.” Many modern sermons include “inclusivity,” if we just believe that God exists, we are guaranteed eternal life. But we know the scriptures do not support this false teaching. Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship. Romans 12:1
The Word of God is definitive in the habits and traits that will exclude us from our heavenly reward:
You should know this, Timothy, that in the last days there will be very difficult times. 2 For people will love only themselves and their money. They will be boastful and proud, scoffing at God, disobedient to their parents, and ungrateful. They will consider nothing sacred. They will be unloving and unforgiving; they will slander others and have no self-control. They will be cruel and hate what is right. They will betray their friends, be reckless, be puffed up with pride, and love pleasure rather than God. They will act religious, but they will reject the power that could make them godly. Stay away from people like that! 2 Timothy 3:1-5
“But cowards, unbelievers, the corrupt, murderers, the immoral, those who practice witchcraft, idol worshipers, and all liars—their fate is in the fiery lake of burning sulfur. This is the second death.” Revelation 21:8
God is aware of humanity’s limitation to try but fail without His help. Do your part by confessing and repenting of the sinful habits and traits that will keep you from being an “Overcomer.” It is possible to live holy:
Do you not know that your bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own; you were bought at a price. Therefore honor God with your bodies. 1 Corinthians 6:19-20
Then if my people who are called by my name will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, I will hear from heaven and will forgive their sins and restore their land. 2 Chronicles 7:14
Commit everything you do to the Lord. Trust him, and he will help you. Psalm 37:5
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
I can (and will) do all things through Christ, who strengthens me. Philippians 4:13
Saints of the Most-High God, rely on God for the spiritual transformation required to change your undesirable habits/traits. When tempted, begin to pray out loud, remove yourself from the temptation, and continue to pray for strength. The temptations in your life are no different from what others experience. And God is faithful. He will not allow the temptation to be more than you can stand. When you are tempted, he will show you a way out so that you can endure. 1 Corinthians 10:13
Bible Study: Psalm 37, Revelation 21 and 22
God, thank you for creating the Sabbath to enjoy physical, mental, emotional rest and spiritual renewal. You have given us 24 hours to shut out all secular activities and time to focus on growing closer to you. We admit that we need spiritual refreshment every day in our earthly journey. Please forgive us for our sins. We ask to be filled with the Holy Spirit and to seek you above all else. We pray for your strength and power to rid ourselves of ungodly habits and to live holy and acceptable lives. We ask this prayer in the Worthy Name of Jesus. Amen.
Steps 2 Success with Spiritual Solutions 
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