Steps 2 Success with Spiritual Solutions

“And let us not grow weary while doing good, for in due season we shall reap if we do not lose heart.” (Galatians 6:9)

For the past 3-to 4 weeks, I have browsed social media to research the consensus of the Christian community regarding our gratitude for God’s love, grace, and mercies. 95% of the comments revealed anxiety, depression, and anger against God. Although it was disheartening to read and listen to their true heartfelt feelings, those who do not desire to suffer expressed their perception of God–He gives us a life of hardship.

Four generations have expressed in various ways that it is just too hard to be a Christian.

Here are the birth years for each generation:

• Gen Z, iGen, or Centennials: Born 1996 – 2015.
• Millennials or Gen Y: Born 1977 – 1995.
• Generation X: Born 1965 – 1976.
• Baby Boomers: Born 1946 – 1964.

Why do we feel that God does not care?

With the never-ending pandemic and its variants and the senseless killing of innocent war victims, we have reached the highest level of death and suffering throughout our world. God has given human beings the intellect and courage to adapt to the most extreme adversity. How did we reach the point that four generations are fed up with the suffering that Jesus warned us about? “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).

We feel that God is asking too much of us: “Then Jesus said to His disciples, ‘If anyone desires to come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow Me. For whoever desires to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for My sake will find it.'” (Matthew 16:24-25)

The Forgotten Promise: “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).

We lack the desire to study the Scriptures and learn God’s Character: “Jesus answered, ‘You are mistaken because you do not know the Scriptures or the power of God.'” (Matthew 22:29).

Does God Care?

From studying Genesis chapters 1-3, it is evident that God cares. Eve was deceived by Satan, which led to her disobedience, but Adam’s disobedience was intentional. Like many of us, Adam and Eve refused to accept accountability for their sins against God. Instead of confessing, repenting, and asking for forgiveness, they taught us how to play the blame game.

God’s Tolerance for Disobedience Supersedes Humanity’s Tolerance

Consider an employer’s Disciplinary policies. Usually, there are three levels of discipline for employee infractions. Verbal warnings, two write-ups, and suspension pending investigation are the typical outcomes for breaking rules and codes. Still, there is always a list of infractions that result in immediate termination.

The sins of our first parents had a never-ending domino effect that has impacted everyone who has lived from the Creation to the present [approximately 6,000 years]. We can agree that immediate termination would be the penalty deserved for their transgression.

God Had An Option that He Did Not Take

When Adam and Eve disobeyed, God had the option to destroy them and create another man and woman who would have obeyed. Yet, Jesus agreed [before the creation of humanity] that He would die on the cross for us.

God’s Character: “The Lord passed before him and proclaimed, “The Lord, the Lord, a God merciful and gracious, slow to anger, and abounding in steadfast love and faithfulness…” (Exodus 34:6).

A diligent study of the Old Testament reveals a history of humanity’s abject disobedience. Yet, many focus on the punishment that God meted out to the Israelites who never entered the Promised Land, the Flood in Noah’s time, and the destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah. Reflecting on the level of wickedness that exists presently, we should thank God every day for His grace and mercies.

Historical Scriptural Documentation of Suffering

Study the life of the Apostle Paul who tells us, “Three times I was beaten with rods, once I was stoned, three times I was shipwrecked. I spent a night and a day in the open sea. In my frequent journeys, I have been in danger from rivers and from bandits, in danger from my countrymen and from the Gentiles, in danger in the city and in the country, in danger on the sea and among false brothers,…” (2 Corinthians 11:25).

Others were tortured, not accepting deliverance, that they might obtain a better resurrection. Still, others had trials of mockings and scourgings, yes, and of chains and imprisonment. They were stoned, they were sawn in two, were tempted, were slain with the sword. They wandered about in sheepskins and goatskins, being destitute, afflicted, tormented—of whom the world was not worthy. They wandered in deserts and mountains, in dens and caves of the earth. (Hebrews 11:35-38).

Thankfully, none of us have the heavy burdens of the Early Christians. The Apostle Paul who experienced much suffering tells us, “Our suffering is light and temporary and is producing for us an eternal glory that is greater than anything we can imagine.” (2 Corinthians 4:17).

Never Doubt that God Cares For Us

God’s Sacrifice for Humanity: “For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.” (John 3:16).

Because of Jesus, all of our trials, sorrows, and burdens will cease to exist one day. We must take up our cross and remain faithful and steadfast until then.

Yes! Our God Cares!

“The righteous cry out, and the LORD hears; He delivers them from all their troubles. The LORD is near to the brokenhearted; He saves the contrite in spirit.” (Psalm 34:17-18)

Prayer: God, we offer You praises of thanksgiving for Your love, grace, and mercies. By the very breath in our bodies, we acknowledge in gratitude that You are the Giver of life. We ask forgiveness for the times that our minds are filled with doubt. Jesus, thank you for Your great sacrifice. We ask this prayer in the Worthy Name of Jesus. Amen.

We pursue academic degrees, career goals, healthy and happy relationships, establish families, and strive for financial stability. Who doesn’t enjoy a stable, peaceful, and productive life? Life is not perfect. We know that difficulties will arise. Yet, our emotions may escalate when challenged by stormy trials and changing circumstances. Many have anxiety about the unknown future. By relying on our limited abilities or other people, which may prove ineffective, we can become fearful, anxious, or angry with God.

Our daily schedule usually includes the known tasks. It is the unknown challenges that arise [causing chaos] that need to be resolved. A flat tire, unexpected expenses, pending job layoffs, decline in health, and family issues are just some of the many things that can wreck our peace.

Changing our Response to Difficulties

The first response is to pray. Including God in our day-to-day activities provides us with the faith and strength to overcome. “Casting all your cares [all your anxieties, all your worries, and all your concerns, once and for all] on Him, for He cares about you [with deepest affection, and watches over you very carefully].” (1 Peter 5:7, Amplified Bible).

Establish daily spiritual goals. When God is number one on our to-do list, we are not annoyed by the unknown or disturbed by our stormy trials. Praying and studying the Scriptures gives us unwavering faith and the confidence that God will take care of the obstacles. Remember, No Prayer–No Power! No Scriptures–No Strength!

Whether in peaceful times or facing trials, sorrows, and the anxieties of the unknown future, we can have faith and trust in our most excellent Resource, the known God. Live as an Overcomer! We are never alone! Trust God! Wait on God!

The Struggle is Real–Yet, the Apostle Paul says, “I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength.” Philippians 4:13

Prayer: God, we admit that we desperately need You and cannot resolve our battles alone. We ask for guidance and comfort from the Holy Spirit. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.

Part 1 of 2–The Separation of Abraham, Jesus, John the Beloved, and the Apostle Paul

The question “Are you alone?” is trending on social media. Sorrowful or angry responses reflecting despondency are rapidly growing in the Christian community. Depending on one’s life experience, the answer varies, “No, I live with family, roommates, spouse and children, but still feel alone,” “I have family and friends, but I live alone,” and ” Yes, I am alone without friends or nearby family.” We usually associate being alone with persons who are single, widowed, divorced, and without friends or family.

Although we frequently interpret alone as feeling lonely, it is not the same. Loneliness is a feeling that creates internal distress and sorrow. Have you experienced the sudden dissolution of relationships with familiar associates, family, and friends for no apparent reason? If you answered yes, God has separated you to fulfill His plans and purpose for your life–God has placed you in the “Spiritual Wilderness.”

The Separation Into the Wilderness

Since God said, “It is not good for man to be alone,” why would He separate us from the familiar people, places, and activities that bring joy to our lives? Consider the definition of “Alone” from another perspective. Alone is isolation. Isolation would negatively impact our mental, emotional, and spiritual health. As Christians, we are never alone! We have our Spiritual Team, God, Jesus, the Holy Spirit, and guardian angels.

God does not isolate us or take any good thing away from us. “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 NIV).

The Act of Spiritual Separation

Did you recently commit to love and serve God by surrendering your will and desires? God takes us seriously when we renew our covenant with Him. Then God has placed you in spiritual separation. He has removed the obstacles that prevent your daily spiritual growth and development–Sanctification. God is ready to take you to a higher level in your relationship with Jesus Christ. He is preparing you for Eternal life.

God gave Jesus His earthly assignment. And Jesus has given every believer an earthly assignment. As disciples, our lives are pre-destined to receive eternal life. “Not my will, buy Your will be done. Amen.” Most are familiar with the Great Commission as defined by Jesus–to make disciples.

“Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all things that I have commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age.” Amen. (Matthew 28:19‭-‬20 NKJV)

For us to accomplish our spiritual destiny, we have received Spiritual Gifts.

The Apostle Paul tells us the Holy Spirit gives Spiritual Gifts to every believer: “There are different kinds of gifts, but the same Spirit distributes them. There are different kinds of service, but the same Lord. Now to each one the manifestation of the Spirit is given for the common good..” (1 Corinthians 12:4-5, 7, 11)

We understand that the Holy Spirit has given us pre-destined gifts, talents, and purpose. Yet, do the Scriptures identify spiritual separation as necessary to fulfill God’s purpose? Whatever God determines is required for each believer, we receive direction from the Holy Spirit to bring His purpose to fruition.

A narrow focus is required for our journey of spiritual growth. God will remove all distractions that would prevent us from achieving His plans. The prophet Jeremiah admits, “LORD, I know that people’s lives are not their own, it is not for them to direct their steps” (Jeremiah 10:23 NIV).

Biblical Evidence of Spiritual Separation–Abraham, Jesus, John the Beloved, and the Apostle Paul

Abraham Instructed to Go–A Condition of God’s Covenant

Consider Abraham who was instructed to go: “Then the LORD said to Abram, “Leave your country, your kindred, and your father’s household, and go to the land I will show you. I will make you into a great nation, and I will bless you; I will make your name great so that you will be a blessing.… (Genesis 12:1-2).

God’s covenant with Abram required that he separate from his kindred and friends, who would influence him to question God’s plans. Abram’s name was changed to Abraham as a sign of God’s promise. Separation prepared him to fulfill God’s promise of a Son in their advanced age who would produce a blessed lineage of people who represented God. Without leaving the familiar, Abraham would have never passed his ultimate test of faith–sacrificing Isaac, his only Son.

Jesus’ Separation into the Wilderness–Alone and Fasting for 40 days

“Then Jesus was led up by the Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted by the devil. And when He had fasted forty days and forty nights, afterward He was hungry. Now when the tempter came to Him, he said, ‘If You are the Son of God, command that these stones become bread.'” (Matthew 4:1-3).

Through His obedience, Jesus prayed in confidence, “I have glorified You on the earth. I have finished the work which You have given Me to do. And now, O Father, glorify Me together with Yourself, with the glory which I had with You before the world was.” (John 17:4-5).

Jesus’ separation was necessary to prepare Him spiritually, emotionally, mentally, and physically for His rigorous suffering and death by crucifixion. Yet, in His mercy, God had limitations on the extent of Jesus’ suffering [As they were going out, they met a man from Cyrene named Simon, and they forced him to carry the cross. Matthew 27:32]. When Jesus cried out, “It is finished,” the battle was won for our salvation from sin. Hallelujah! Amen!

The Apostle John’s Exile to Patmos

Believers who find themselves distressed from their spiritual separation should consider the disciple John who was exiled to the Isle of Patmos. Jesus revealed all that is in Revelation to the disciple that He loved. For John to receive the visions, wisdom, and an elevated level of understanding, God determined that he needed to be physically isolated for the remainder of his life.

Satan did not gain victory when John was boiled in oil. “Tertullian in A.D. 200 wrote, ‘at Rome, the Apostle John, having been immersed in hot oil, suffered no harm at all from it'” (The Prescription against Heretics, chapter 36). Yes, this is John the Beloved disciple. Why was John loved by Jesus? Because he desired to have the character of Christ and allowed his heart to be completely transformed from a “Son of Thunder” who had a bad temper to a loving, faithful, and obedient disciple. Note: John was the only disciple who was not killed.

The Suffering, Separation, and Imprisonment of the Apostle Paul

Before His final imprisonment, Paul writes, “Five times I received from the Jews the forty lashes minus one. Three times I was beaten with rods, once I was stoned, three times I was shipwrecked. I spent a night and a day in the open sea…” (2 Corinthians 11:24-25)

The Apostle Paul was approximately 60 years old when he was beheaded. No other apostle who suffered for serving God was imprisoned for many years. Yet, Under Divine Inspiration, he wrote The “Prison Epistles” — Ephesians, Philippians, Colossians, and Philemon. Paul never complained about His circumstances. He was grateful for suffering for Jesus Christ. “Now this I do for the gospel’s sake, that I may be partaker of it with you.” (1 Corinthians 9:23). 

We may wonder how Abraham, Jesus, Paul, and John the Beloved possessed the strength and endurance to obey God under stringent requirements. They faithfully believed and had the assurance from God that “Suffering never ends in defeat. Suffering always leads to Victory!”

“I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. 8 Finally, there is laid up for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will give to me on that Day, and not to me only but also to all who have loved His appearing.” (2 Timothy 4:7-8).

Part 2 will focus on “When Separation is Required for Our Spiritual Growth and to Save Our Souls.”

Prayer: God, we thank You for Your love and guidance in our lives. Please give us the strength to obey Your will. We ask for the anointing of the Holy Spirit and to remain faithful and obedient during our wilderness separation. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.