Steps 2 Success with Spiritual Solutions

Letting Go of the DIY Mindset

Documentaries that tell the stories of the way of life outside of modern cities are fascinating. The villages in the most remote areas of a country portray the resilience of the human spirit and the unlimited capabilities of the mind. Although the people survive with minimal resources and life is harsh, one crucial factor stands out. They realize their dependency on each other.

When studying the Creation, we become aware that God never intended for us to be alone, functioning in isolation. “Then the Lord God said, it is not good for the man to be alone. I will make him a helper who is just right for him.” Genesis 2:18. The DIY, do-it-yourself mindset produces a lot of burdens and stress that are self-inflicted. God’s plan was not the current trend of looking out for number one. We were never meant to endure loneliness, which is the root of depression, anxiety, and worries that have escalated to pandemic levels.

Challenge the current trend of being self-contained, and totally independent of others. Isolating yourself or your family does not lead to a spiritual self-actualization (because that status is not achievable).

In other words, self-actualization can generally be thought of as the full realization of one’s creative, intellectual, and social potential through internal drive (versus for external rewards like money, status, or power). Since self-actualization is based on leveraging one’s abilities to reach their potential, it is a very individual process and will probably vary significantly from person to person. https://positivepsychology.com/self-actualization/

We defeat God’s purpose for our lives when we follow our thoughts and ways.“My thoughts are nothing like your thoughts,” says the LORD. “And my ways are far beyond anything you could imagine.” Isaiah 55:8. Please know that self-seeking behaviors and the pursuit of independence are not the keys to having a success story. Financial gain is useless when you are alone without human companionship, which should be limited to those who can have healthy relationships. Having a spirit of selfishness wreaks havoc on our happiness and peace of mind. But we can rid ourselves of the empty lives that result from the DIY Mindset.

We have many God-given gifts. The family extends beyond the biological barriers. Look for a food co-op, volunteer for churches and non-profits, attend virtual church services, or learn a new hobby or craft. People need each other. Recently, I located in a new city in Florida where everything is within walking distance. On my daily walk, I always get the chance to speak to someone. Although I have an outgoing personality, I do not have a social circle yet. So, technology is helping with that issue. Joining a couple of local FB pages keeps me informed of events and the needs of others in my community.

Jesus was human, yet, divine. His best friends were Mary, Martha, and Lazurus. When Jesus arrived at the home of his friends after Lazarus’ death, we are told, “Jesus wept.” John 11:35. This verse is profound because it provides us with biblical proof that Christ possessed human emotions. Despite the persecuting circumstances, He did not isolate from others. Jesus’ heart was tender and full of love for everyone. Still, Jesus did not stay in areas where rejection and hostility were prevalent. The scriptures tell us that He and the disciples left cities that refused to accept his ministry.

Know that the Lord, he is God! It is he who made us, and we are his; we are his people, and the sheep of his pasture Psalm 100:3

From a spiritual perspective, the scriptures compare us to sheep. Were you aware that sheep cannot live without the shepherd? They are entirely dependent on the shepherd for everything. They require constant care and watching over. I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep. John 10:11. Jesus paid a high price for us that we can live happy, healthy, and fulfilled lives.

I am the good shepherd. I know my own, and my own know me… John 10:14. Allow Jesus, our Shepherd, to lead your life. He knows what it feels like to be alone. Yes, when you dedicate your life to serve and please God, you may have to experience some “alone” times. And I will pray the Father, and he shall give you another Comforter, that he may abide with you for ever. John 14:16.

Pray for a change of your current DIY mindset. Allow God to provide you with a new life, which includes bonding with people who love Him, others, and themselves and, who help those in need.

Bible Study: John 11

God, you know our emotional needs. Yet, we come, asking for the fulfilling life that you created us to have. Please reveal your divine purpose, and open the doors for the opportunities to help others. In Jesus’ Worthy Name, we pray. Amen.

Stop! Do Not Cut the Cord!

In 1999, I was a student nurse preparing for a four-week clinical rotation in Labor and Delivery. The hospital recently incorporated two birthing rooms to which I was assigned under my nurse preceptor. My first patient was a young woman who was a runner and in peak condition. Her labor was under two hours, which caused expedited action from the nursing staff.

As I witnessed the birth of a baby, I felt like falling to my knees and praising God. But reality kept me from performing an action that would have expelled me from the nursing program. The infant cried loudly without any human assistance, and the umbilical cord was tied and cut. The life-line that provided oxygen, nutrients, and the removal of waste was no longer required. The baby’s internal organs immediately kick-started as she continued to exercise her lungs by crying loudly.

The expectation from my preceptor was that I would ask many questions regarding the labor and delivery process. But I was quiet. I could not speak. Through intense study, I was fully aware of the theoretical knowledge of pregnancy, labor, and the birthing process. What I was not prepared for was the awe that I felt inside for the mighty power of God. The birth of a baby is still the most supernatural miracle that I have ever witnessed. The beginning of a new life touches humanity deep into the core of our souls. King David proclaimed, “I praise You, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made. Marvelous are Your works, and I know this very well.” Psalm 139:14.

Human effort is required to stay connected to God. Then God said, “Let us make human beings in our image, to be like us. …” Genesis 1:26. “To be like us” is often misunderstood. Our Heavenly Father never intended for us to feel alone or to live with a survival instinct. We have an example. Three persons of the Godhead, God, Jesus, and the Holy Spirit who are always unified and connected. The angels, heavenly messengers, know their purpose, and that is to serve God and humanity. It is unfortunate that humans created in the image of God readily cut the spiritual cord that connects us to our source of love, grace, mercies, and power.

How do we place ourselves in the predicament of being cut-off?

We cut off our spiritual source when we fail to pray, study the Bible, and spend time in praise and worship. We sever the cord by seeking to fulfill our selfish desires and ambitions. Without the strength and power from Jesus Christ, we easily fall into temptation. Because of sinful desires hidden deep within our hearts (the desires that we do not share with anyone) we disconnect from our Heavenly Father.

Unlike the infant, whose internal organs kick in to sustain life outside of the mother, our attempt to live outside of God brings anxiety, worry, depression, and hopelessness. Sin leads to complete separation from the Trinity Godhead. Jesus tells us the solution: Stay connected, or else we are empty and powerless!

Remain in Me, and I will remain in you. Just as no branch can bear fruit by itself unless it remains in the vine, neither can you bear fruit unless you remain in Me. I am the vine, and you are the branches. The one who remains in Me, and I in him, will bear much fruit. For apart from Me, you can do nothing.… John 15:4-5

Never forget: 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

God did not speak us into existence. If God, in all of His majesty, bent down and created Adam from the dust of the ground, then we should praise, worship, and never cut our spiritual cords to God, the source of life. Only God, Jesus Christ, and the Holy Spirit can provide us with the spiritual nutrients that flow continuously to keep us connected. Claim your victorious life by never cutting the cord!

Bible Study: John 15

God, we desire to connect to You, our source who loves and cares for us. Thank you for hearing and answering our prayer that we ask in Jesus’ name. Amen.

Watch “Oh My Soul – Rebekah Dawn Feat. Mary Monari (OFFICIAL MUSIC VIDEO) on YouTube

GOD will take care of you

Happy Sabbath!

What are the chances of a bee flying into the one flower that you chose to take a picture of? But much to our surprise, the unbelievable happened.

We read biblical stories of the many miracles performed by God. Yet, we doubt that He is still performing miracles. “I am the LORD, and I do not change.” Malachi 3:6. We have become so distracted that we miss seeing our daily blessings and miracles of God’s grace and mercies. Remember, when we have complete faith and trust in God, then our blessings are guaranteed.

The bee in the flower reminds me of the promise found in Matthew chapter 6.

“So don’t worry about these things, saying, ‘What will we eat? What will we drink? What will we wear? 32 These things dominate the thoughts of unbelievers, but your heavenly Father already knows all your needs. 33 Seek the Kingdom of God above all else, and live righteously, and he will give you everything you need. So don’t worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will bring its own worries. Today’s trouble is enough for today.” Matthew 6:31-34

The bee did his part by flying around to find the flower. God promises if we pray, study the Bible, and have faith and trust in Him, then He will give us “everything we need, including His perfect peace.” Perfect peace means no worries whether we are in the valley lows or the darkest storms of trials and sorrows. Seek God first! God’s promises include emotional healing, financial stability (not wealth), and most importantly spiritual growth.

Seek God first!

Bible Study: Isaiah 26

Prayer: God, we admit that we are not feeling our best. Please provide us with comfort from the Holy Spirit and give us the strength to endure our trials and sorrows. We thank you for the Sabbath and your never-ending grace and mercies. We ask this prayer in Jesus’ name. Amen.

Seeking New Opportunities?

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

Our desires and how we pursue those goals indicate our priorities and relationship with God. When we seek God first, He opens up doors of opportunities that we could never open for ourselves.

I could not find a clinical program in New Jersey without a two-year waiting list when pursuing my nursing degree. I presented the problem to God, and He provided above and beyond my expectations. Acceptance into a nursing program in Upstate NY included a scholarship along with full-time status as a student. I did not work for two years. God provided scholarships and money for all of my necessities of rent, utilities, food, and car maintenance.

As I share this testimony of what happens when we seek God first, I have to ask myself, why isn’t my faith in God stronger? God has supernatural power that we are unaware of because we fail to seek Him first. Align your desires and plans with God’s plans for your life by praying and asking Him to reveal his plans for your life.

Seeking God includes loving and obeying Him with all of our hearts.

1. He has shown you, O mortal, what is good. And what does the Lord require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God. Micah 6:8
2. Pure and genuine religion in the sight of God the Father means caring for orphans and widows in their distress and refusing to let the world corrupt you. James 1:27
3. Bring all the tithes (10% of all income or increase) into the storehouse so there will be enough food in my Temple. “If you do,” says the Lord of Heaven’s Armies, “I will open the windows of heaven for you. I will pour out a blessing so great you won’t have enough room to take it in. Try it! Put me to the test!” Malachi 3:10

Jesus declared, “Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.” This is the first and greatest commandment.… Matthew 22:37

Seeking God means loving Him with all of our hearts, soul, and mind. Giving of our love, time, and money are tremendous opportunities that we may have on the bottom of our to-do lists. When we put God first, the blessings of peace, contentment, and inner joy will change our lives immensely. Please know that our finite minds can never imagine what God is ready to do to transform our lives.

Bible Study: Malachi 3

God, we admit that we are chasing our desires. We acknowledge that we can do nothing compared to the blessings you are ready to give to us. We desire to seek you first and wait for the plans you have for our lives. Thank you for hearing and answering this prayer that we ask in Jesus’ name. Amen.

Will you give your best?

Sharing this morning’s daily devotional from another author. Pray that you will be blessed.

He went a little farther, and fell on the ground, and prayed. MARK 14:35

Some Christians are satisfied to have only a surface relationship with Christ. Others desire to share the holiest moments with Him. On the night Jesus spent in sacred prayer in the Garden of Gethsemane, the people responded to Him in various ways. There were those who were so indifferent to Jesus that they were unaware He was even in the garden. Then there was Judas, who knew where Jesus was but was too busy with his own schemes to join Him. The rest of the disciples joined Jesus in the garden, but they were distracted by sleep.

Jesus told them the urgency of the hour, but they did not comprehend it. There was the inner circle of disciples, Peter, James and John. They initially prayed with Jesus, yet even they could not grasp the significance of the moment. Ultimately, Jesus prayed alone. He went father than His disciples and prayed longer. At the greatest moment of intercession in human history, there was no one willing to go with Jesus and watch with Him.

God is calling you to go deeper in your prayer life with Him. If you are willing to be that person Jesus can take with Him into the most sacred moments, you will experience things only the angels shared with Jesus in the garden that night.

From Today’s Devotional-Experiencing God Day-by-Day

Bible Reading: Mark 14

God, we pray for a deeper relationship with you. We commit to increasing our communication with you through prayer. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.

Running in Times of Distress?

Living Victoriously!

So all the elders of Israel gathered together and came to Samuel at Ramah. They said to him, “You are old, and your sons do not follow your ways; now appoint a king to lead us, such as all the other nations have. 1 Samuel 8:4-5

Samuel presented the demands of the people to God and prayed for guidance. In verses 10-18, God spoke through Samuel to tell the Nation of Israel the consequences of having a king. They still insisted on doing things their way. But the people refused to listen to Samuel. “No!” they said. “We want a king over us. Then we will be like all the other nations, with a king to lead us and to go out before us and fight our battles.” 1 Samuel 8:19-20

We know how the story ends. Saul was a ruthless, disobedient, and jealous king. He desired to kill David even after God used him to kill Goliath, their worst enemy.

As the troops were returning home after David had killed the Philistine, the women came out of all the cities of Israel to meet King Saul with singing and dancing, with joyful songs, and with tambourines and other instruments. And as the women danced, they sang out: “Saul has slain his thousands, and David his tens of thousands.” And Saul was furious and resented this song. “They have ascribed tens of thousands to David,” he said, “but only thousands to me. What more can he have but the kingdom?”…1 Samuel 18:6-8

Then David got up and ran that day from Saul. 1 Samuel 21:10. David, the young shepherd boy that God gave strength to kill lions and bears to protect his sheep and kill Goliath, forgot that God was powerful enough to save him from King Saul.

In times of distress, due to disobedience, trials, or facing our enemies, where or who do we run to? God is our only Deliverer! We easily forget when we face our worst situations that God says, “I am the Lord, and I do not change. That is why you descendants of Jacob are not already destroyed.” Malachi 3:6. Our gratitude for God’s infinite grace and mercies is not expressed enough through our prayers, praise, and worship. Run to God!

For the choir director: A psalm of David, the servant of the Lord. He sang this song to the Lord on the day the Lord rescued him from all his enemies and Saul. He sang: I love you, Lord; you are my strength. The Lord is my rock, my fortress, and my savior; my God is my rock, in whom I find protection. He is my shield, the power that saves me, and my place of safety. I called on the Lord, who is worthy of praise, and he saved me from my enemies. Psalm 18:1-3

Having complete faith and trust in God enables us to run to God. Never run from the enemy! Have you been confronted by a person who is ready to argue? Are you being victimized in a seemingly hopeless situation? Begin to pray out loud and ask God to reign down His mighty power and take care of your problems. “The LORD will fight for you, and you have only to be silent.” Exodus 14:14. Stop running from your enemies, and start running to God!

Bible Study: Psalm 18

God, we ask forgiveness for not running to you. We realize that you are the only ones who can fight our battles. Please rescue us from our enemies who desire to harm us. Thank you for fighting for us. We ask this prayer in Jesus’ name. Amen.

The Guaranteed Mood Stabilizer

Pray without ceasing. 1 Thessalonians 5:17

Our minds are distracted by our circumstances and events that are happening around us. Many of us have forgotten about the reward of eternal life and the Second Coming of Jesus.

The Contemporary English Version says “and think the same way that Christ Jesus thought:” Philippians 2:5. Jesus always thought of pleasing God, and He knew how to please God because He loved God. He made it his purpose to worship His Father and to think, speak, and act to please God.

We can have complete peace whether we are in the valley lows or mountain highs. But we have to choose God and think about life from a spiritual perspective. Our moods and emotions should represent that we serve a loving and merciful God who provides for our every need.

I continue to travel throughout the world virtually. A documentary featured a country where there is great wealth. The narrator asked the wealthy stockbroker, “If you have accomplished everything that life could provide why do you worship an unseen God?” His response, “All of these things can disappear at any time. I cannot imagine my life without doing my part to have peace, which is only available on a spiritual level.”

Do not get caught up in thinking about what you do not have! When our thoughts are in sync with God, we praise and thank Him for all the things that God has blessed us with.

Other people know how to respond to their God. So it’s what you know that makes you worship. Sometimes you’re not feeling anything. So it’s what you know about the One Who bought you back from sin that governs your behavior. So worship is knowing Who God is, learning about God. And the more you learn Him and obey Him is the more you yield to Him. You want to respond to Him a certain way, in singing, in praying and in clapping, in meditating, in dancing, in having devotion. Those are the types of things you do unto your God. Every religion has some form of worship. So when we say lift your hands, we mean to give God what He desires and deserves. – Bishop Jackie McCullough

And now, dear brothers and sisters, one final thing. Fix your thoughts on what is true, and honorable, and right, and pure, and lovely, and admirable. Think about things that are excellent and worthy of praise. Philippians 4:8

Bible Study: Philippians 4

God, we have lost our focus and purpose for serving you. We have allowed ourselves to become fixated on the circumstances surrounding us. Please help us to redirect our focus on you as we prepare for Jesus’ Second Coming. We ask this prayer in Jesus’ name. Amen.

You Should Do It!

In the summer of 2001, I lived in the Catskill mountains for three months, working as a camp nurse. One day, I had some extra time and went to the Arts and Crafts lodge to look at the girls’ projects. It was then that I met a fascinating person, Matt, the Art Counselor. The young man shared his background and how he pursued a dream that left him estranged from his wealthy family. Matt was from California, a self-proclaimed hippie who was vegan, an activist, and did not use drugs or alcohol. Because of his long, sun-bleached blond hair, most people thought of him as a beach bum and avoided contact with someone they perceived as looking for a handout.

Matt invited me to sit down and continued sharing his story. As a young child, he began to draw landscapes and animals. Years later, one day at the beach, a beautiful young woman sat looking at the water with a sad expression, which prompted him to sketch the contrast of beauty and grief. Although hesitant, he walked over and handed her the picture. Because the drawing reflected the sadness of her soul, she encouraged him to pursue his talent. Matt shared that hearing her positive words was the catalyst to starting his own business.

Then the focus turned to me, “If I had money to start a business what would it be?” I laughed, stating that would not be possible. But Matt was persistent. He told me to think about something that I was very good at and develop my talent into a business. It took me a minute to look beyond my creative abilities, and finally, I mentioned that I had tutored several of my classmates while in nursing school. And that was the motivation to begin my educational tutoring business for nursing students and nursing program graduates struggling with their classes and those who failed the licensure exam.

God has given each of us spiritual and natural gifts that remain unexplored for various reasons. Meeting Matt was an eye-opening experience. He insisted that discovering my purpose would add a new dimension to my life. All of us have dreams because God gave us the ability to dream. One of the significant obstacles in pursuing our goals is that we share them with the wrong people who discourage us with toxic words.

Yes, it was hard work to learn how to develop a business and marketing plan. The research revealed many tutoring competitors. How could I compete with the established tutors? That question almost stopped me from moving forward. But I prayed for guidance, and God answered my prayer. All of the tutoring companies were in brick-and-mortar locations. My niche was that I would travel to the clients at the closest bookstore or library and include the mileage in the contractual fee. I also tutored virtually via the Messenger app. After twelve years of successfully helping others to become Registered Nurses, I fulfilled my goal to give back to the nursing profession. Did I mention that I was in my mid-forties when I pursued my dream as an entrepreneur? I started my business with $500 and God’s blessing of approval. He said yes!

Our relationship with God has the potential for unlimited growth. The Lord says, “I was ready to respond, but no one asked for help. I was ready to be found, but no one was looking for me. I said, “Here I am, here I am!’ to a nation that did not call on my name. Isaiah 65:1. God is available to us at any time of the day or night. We spend our time getting to know people for possible relationships, which may or may not work out. Please remember, we have a guaranteed relationship with God when we do our part because He can never fail us.

Whoever said, “Life is hard, and then you die” did not have a relationship with the Trinity Godhead, God, Jesus, and the Holy Spirit. God did not create us to live empty, meaningless lives, nor is He the “Punisher” that Satan portrays Him to be. God created a beautiful world complete with vibrant colors, oceans, and natural wonders that should bring us to our knees in praise and worship. So, if we are created in God’s image, then He has blessed us with spiritual gifts and creative talents. Our lives will always involve struggle. But as long as we have breath, we can move forward, to build and to rebuild.

For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, says the LORD, thoughts of peace and not of evil, to give you a future and a hope. Jeremiah 29:11

Present your plans to God in prayer. When our desires align with His plans, we see miracles unfold, and our dreams come to fruition. Talk to God first, and ask Him to direct you to the right people who will offer positive feedback and realistic direction to pursue your goals. You should do it!

Bible Study: Acts 16 tells us about Lydia, a wealthy woman from selling purple cloth. Remember that most women did not have the opportunity to become entrepreneurs in biblical times.

God, we admit that we are sharing our dreams and goals with everyone except you. Please reveal the path for our lives and bring the right people into our lives that we may achieve the plans you have for us. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.

The Challenge

We are 15 months into the pandemic that has impacted our lives like a passing storm or a devastating tsunami. Yet, God has always been here. He never left us alone nor did we have to guess or figure out how to move forward.

If you do not feel that God was there for you, then it’s time to give Him more of you. Studying the Bible provides us with a complete bio of God. We learn of His love, character, and most importantly, God reveals his promises to humanity.

Prayer is our most powerful resource!

God always answers our prayers for forgiveness, grace, to love others, and the strength to make it through the day. But most importantly, God listens intently to our prayers for help! Whether the enemy is attacking us or our basic needs are running out, God is alert! His eyes see all, and his ears are especially tuned-in to the cries, “God, I need your help.”

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

The Challenge

“Be still (cease striving) and know (recognize, understand) that I am God. I will be exalted among the nations! I will be exalted in the earth.” Psalm 46:10

We have to make sure that we understand the true meaning of “To be still.” Love, faith, trust, obedience, knowledge, and wisdom are the requisites to have a strong bond and loving relationship with God.

Bible Study: 1 Kings 17:7-16

God, we are in the struggle of our lives spiritually and financially. We desperately need your help. We ask for your divine intervention and blessings in our lives. We ask this prayer in the Worthy Name of Jesus. Amen.