“Is that so? retorted Pharaoh. “And who is the Lord? Why should I listen to him and let Israel go?”…”I don’t know the Lord, and I will not let Israel go.” Exodus 5:2
As I read this verse, I focused on Pharaoh’s answer of “I don’t know the Lord.” Then I began to do some real soul-searching and asked myself, “Sonya, do you really know the Lord?” Because if you really knew God, then your faith would be rock-solid strong, and you would trust God to take you through the process of deliverance. In fact, Sonya, your eyes would never be fixated on your circumstances because you realize that God promises to always take care of you.
“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” Jeremiah 29:11
Yes, God’s perfect plans always bring victory to our lives. We say that we believe and know who God is, but we do not fully trust in Him with all of our heart. During our stormy struggles, many of us silently wonder, “God, did you forget about me?” Absolutely not! Wait patiently for the LORD. Be brave and courageous. Yes, wait patiently for the LORD. Psalm 27:14.
As most of the earth prepares for its wintry rest and the days become shorter, we can also use this time to our advantage. Buy a couple of starter plants or seed packets and use grow lights to start an inside garden. Watch the progress of the little seeds or plants. By the spring of the following year, they will be mature plants because of your loving care. Our faith and trust in God have the same flourishing capabilities. Like our starter plants, prayer, and study of the Bible are the water and sunshine we need for spiritual growth.
Never forget, God will always take care of us. The Bible is full of life stories that reflect His love and promises to take impossible situations and turn them into victory. If we only understood the value of prayer, we have the privilege of talking to God at any time of the day or night. Even in our deepest sorrows, we can pray, “God, I need your help.” Commit to building a faith-based relationship with God, and day-by-day, the Invisible God will become visible in your life like you never imagined. There is no end to Spiritual growth!
Bible Readings: Psalms 23 and 27
God, we admit that we do not know you as we should. We ask forgiveness for not having complete faith or trusting in you. We desire to have a deeper relationship with you. Thank you for hearing and answering our prayer that we ask in Jesus’ Holy Name. Amen.
Our Job Description, part 2 focuses on Our Relationship with Others.
Bible Reading: John 4, Acts 10
What has been will be again, and what has been done will be done again; there is nothing new under the sun. Ecclesiastes 1:9
Historically, since sin entered the earth, prejudice and biases based on hate have always existed between human beings. From Cain to modern society hatred has produced many sour fruits of exclusion based on physical, social, religious, and economic statuses. Satan continues to escalate the presence of evil by turning humanity against each other because we fail to acknowledge that everyone was created in the image of God, and therefore, we are equal in His sight.
Throughout, the Bible we learn of the animosity of nation against nation, along with the separation between persons of Jewish descent and Gentiles, persons who were not Jewish.
Gentiles mean nations, according to Smith’s Bible Dictionary. The term Gentile does not really describe who someone is but rather who they are, not – a Jew. A Gentile is one belonging to any nation or people group other than the Jewish people group. http://www.christianity.com
7 A woman of Samaria came to draw water. Jesus said to her, “Give Me a drink.” 8 For His disciples had gone away into the city to buy food. 9 Then the woman of Samaria said to Him, “How is it that You, being a Jew, ask a drink from me, a Samaritan woman?” For Jews have no dealings with Samaritans. John 4:7-9
Simon Peter’s Vision: Acts 10
Were you aware that Simon Peter mentioned in Acts is the same person that was Jesus’ disciple? Peter witnessed first-hand that Jesus did not abide or tolerate the Jewish laws of separation based on nationality or ethnicity. But out of loyalty to the Jewish tradition of segregation, Peter actively practiced the very biases and prejudices that Christ had shown His disciples that God does not condone. Regardless of customs and traditions, Jesus’ ministry was extended to everyone, and His life clearly portrays that God is no respecter of persons.
But like Peter who disregarded the Savior’s teachings, we readily embrace false concepts that are not in sync with the Word of God. How does one embrace hatred for other individuals? We begin to dislike people based on family values, cultural traditions, negative interaction with one person of a particular race or religion, economic wealth or poverty, or just because it is a freedom of choice. Even so, in His mercy, God always provides teaching moments that give us the opportunity to change.
Peter’s Vision
9 The next day, as they went on their journey and drew near the city, Peter went up on the housetop to pray, about the sixth hour. 10 Then he became very hungry and wanted to eat; but while they made ready, he fell into a trance 11 and saw heaven opened and an object like a great sheet bound at the four corners, descending to him and let down to the earth. 12 In it were all kinds of four-footed animals of the earth, wild beasts, creeping things, and birds of the air. 13 And a voice came to him, “Rise, Peter; kill and eat.” 14 But Peter said, “Not so, Lord! For I have never eaten anything common or unclean.” Acts 10:9-14
Many individuals use Peter’s dream to justify eating unclean animals, swine, crustaceans, and even rodents that God created to keep the earth and waters clean. So now, I will deviate to explain further the health laws given in Leviticus. In Genesis chapter 1, God tells us that He created humanity to eat a plant-based diet. And yes, because humanity is never content with what God has given to us, God gave in to the complainers and permitted the Israelites to eat clean meats and fish.
Still, it is not enough. We disregard God-given health laws, and eat whatever makes us happy. Disobedience to God has resulted in the lifespan of humanity decreasing from Adam dying naturally of old age at 930 compared to our struggle to reach the average age of 78 in the United States, because many are so sickly due to diseases caused from malnutrition (poor eating habits as opposed to lack of food).
Dear friend, I hope all is well with you and that you are as healthy in body as you are strong in spirit. 3 John 1:2. This is the true definition of prosperity, great health!
Have you thought about reaching peak performance and an optimal level of health? Return to the original diet of eating a plant-based diet. Do an online search to observe how cows eat? They were created to eat a plant-based diet also, and that is why they chew, chew, chew, to receive the highest level of nutrients. Contrary to popular belief, we do not become malnourished from eating a plant-based diet–look how big cows become, but their size is not due to adipose, fat tissue storage.
Shopping for fruits, vegetables, nuts, legumes, and grains with their vast array of colors and shapes demonstrates God’s love of beauty and His desire for us to reach the optimal level of health that He created us to have. As a nurse, I have cared for individuals who were gravely ill, and with a change in diet, they were able to lose weight and receive healing from many of their diseases. Oh, yes, I have always used the opportunity to witness by encouraging my patients to eat a healthier diet.
Healthy eating is a lifestyle, not a quick-fix method of dieting. You will reap positive benefits from pampering your mind and body. I am a living witness of the benefits of serving God and eating a plant-based diet. At 62 years of age, even with a physical disability of not having cartilage in my knees, I live a pain-free life. I am wrinkle-free, joyful, and at peak performance intellectually and physically. But the most remarkable change is that I possess extra energy, which has given me the desire to grow closer to God. By diligently studying the Bible and praying heartfelt prayers as part of my healthy living regimen, my relationship with God is growing stronger. Yes, God does know what is best for us!
Please embrace the study of the Old Testament, which is full of real-life accounts of people who failed and succeeded. Thankfully, God tells us that His law, the Ten Commandments or the Health-laws will exist until we live in the New Heaven and New Earth (Revelation chapters 21-22) where we will not need laws to prevent sin. For truly I tell you until heaven and earth disappear, not the smallest letter, not the least stroke of a pen, will by any means disappear from the Law until everything is accomplished. Matthew 5:18
Peter’s Vision and its’ Interpretation
15 And a voice spoke to him again the second time, “What God has cleansed you must not call common.” 16 This was done three times. And the object was taken up into heaven again. Acts 10:15-16
Knowing that God’s dietary laws would never change, Peter was perplexed–completely baffled, and very puzzled. But this is the part that makes me so excited about serving God. He always reveals the truth to us. We are never left without an explanation that we can fully understand. God meets us exactly where we are in life, and then His miraculous power works to transform us into His standards of spiritual perfection.
Cornelius, a God-fearing Gentile obeyed the angel’s command to call for Simon Peter (Acts 10:1-8) to come to his home. When Peter traveled to Caesarea to see Cornelius, the Holy Spirit revealed the true meaning of the dream:
Peter told them, “You know it is against our laws for a Jewish man to enter a Gentile home like this or to associate with you. But God has shown me that I should no longer think of anyone as impure or unclean. Acts 10:28
Traditions or cultural guidelines that indicate and support segregation or distinguishing oneself as better than others are ungodly and unholy practices. Throughout the 33 years of Jesus’ interaction with others, He embraced the wealthy, poor, Jew, and Gentile. Read Joshua 2, which tells how God used Rahab the Harlot to fulfill His purpose.
God’s laws and commandments are based on love.
36 “Teacher, which commandment is the greatest in the Law?” 37, Jesus declared, “‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.’ 38 This is the first and greatest commandment. 39 And the second is like it: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’ 40 All the Law and the Prophets hang on these two commandments.”…Matthew 22:36-40
God has specifically cautioned us against breaking the second commandment involving love as the foundation in our relationships with others, Matthew 22:39. What does God consider as breaking His law on loving others? When we refuse to love and embrace all of humanity, first and foremost, we sin against God, the Creator. Hating individuals based on customs, traditions and differences, or possessing the mindset of “this is just the way it is, reveals that we support evil-doing.
The word, “hate” carries strength, and most will not admit that biases and prejudices are fruits from hatred. Have you ever admitted that the dislike you feel for others is hatred? The imaginary gray area was created by Satan to justify sin. I know your deeds, that you are neither cold nor hot. I wish you were either one or the other! 16 So, because you are lukewarm—neither hot nor cold—I am about to spit you out of my mouth.Revelation 3:15-16. Dislike is not a characteristic of the love of God. The fear of the Lord is hatred of evil. Pride and arrogance and the way of evil and perverted speech I hate. Proverbs 8:13.
God is love! And His unconditional love is to all and for all. When we are filled with pride and hatred or embrace traditional customs and prejudices, we are saying, “I do not believe in God nor do I wish to follow His commands.” God does not classify us with human standards such as lower, middle, or upper class. Neither does He have tolerance for biases based on social or economic status, caste systems that still maintain the undertone of exclusion because one is born into a certain level, prejudice, and discrimination of individuals based on their physical appearance.
26 And God said, Let us make man in our image, after our likeness: and let them have dominion over the fish of the sea, and over the fowl of the air, and over the cattle, and over all the earth, and over every creeping thing that creeps upon the earth. 27 So God created man in his own image, in the image of God created he him; male and female created he them. Genesis 1:26-27. God is the most excellent Master Designer that we will ever know. From the flowers to the fruits and vegetables to His most outstanding creation, human beings, we are His masterpiece, and His world is still, Simply Amazing!
Throughout 40 plus years of nursing, I have experienced prejudice and racism from patients, co-workers, and physicians. Even unto a hospice patient saying, “Get away from me, don’t touch me!” before he took his last breath. Yes, Satan attempted to make me a victim and feel less than who God says I am. Even so, I have always known that I am a child of the Most-High God. If you are experiencing discrimination or any of the “isms,” first, affirm your status by telling yourself, “they can say what they want or mistreat me, but I know who created me and I know that I am a child of God.” An appropriate response of “God bless you” to others that Satan uses to belittle you will soon cause them to avoid you. Believe me, God’s name is the last thing that individuals who possess hatred desire to hear.
I want to leave you with Jesus’ encouraging words, “I have told you all this so that you may have peace in me. Here on earth you will have many trials and sorrows. But take heart, because I have overcome the world.” John 16:33. Believe and Receive His promises!
Now is the time to come to Jesus through prayer and ask for forgiveness if we have mistreated others based on religious, physical, gender, social, and economic statuses. Maybe you are or have been the victim of bias and prejudice, ask God to heal your wounded heart, and reaffirm who you belong to, the Most-High God. Our Heavenly Father loves us with a never-ending love!
Love God, Love Others, Love Yourself
God, we ask forgiveness for using our words or actions as swords to wound others. We failed to remember that you created all of humanity in your image and that your array of colors are perfect. We pray for the healing of all wounded hearts who continue to suffer from the “isms” of this world. God, please give us the strength to endure until your Son, Jesus Christ, comes for us. We look forward to living in the New Heaven and the New Earth, where we never have to experience any emotional pain or sorrows from this life. Thank you for creating the Sabbath, a Holy day that we can receive spiritual, mental, emotional, and physical rest from this world’s cares. We love you, God, and we ask this prayer in the Worthy Name of your Son, Jesus Christ. Amen!
If you love Me, you will keep My commandments. John 14:15
37 Jesus declared, “Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.” 38 This is the first and greatest commandment. 39 And the second is like it: “Love your neighbor as yourself.” Matthew 22:37-39
Our Job Description is a four-part Devotional series that addresses our duties to God and humanity.
When I interviewed for the position of Quality Nurse with a major insurance company, I noticed that the interview was conducted very differently from my former interviews for Clinical Nursing positions. After I successfully answered the initial list of questions, the interviewer gave me a copy of the job description to review and the opportunity to ask clarification questions. I was provided with a thorough understanding of the expectations of the position, which led to the deal-breaking question. The interviewer smiled as she asked, “Are you still interested in working for our company as a Quality Nurse? to which I responded affirmatively.
Are you aware that when you accepted Jesus as your personal Lord and Savior that you agreed to fulfill the requirements of a Believer? Although we cannot work our way to Heaven or receive Eternal life by doing good deeds, God has strict commands that do not allow for exceptions to the rules. Even so, our job description is not complex: Love the LORD your God and keep his requirements, his decrees, his laws, and his commands always. Deuteronomy 11:1
The Bible, which is the Voice of God, reveals God’s expectations of those who serve Him. If you obey and do your part, then you can count on God to fulfill His promises. The qualifications for Believers are love, faith, trust, and obedience. No prior experience or degree is required.
What does God require of us?
Believe: that if you confess with your mouth, “Jesus is Lord,” and believe in your heart that God raised Him from the dead, you will be saved. Romans 10:9
Love God: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 22:37-38.
It is impossible to serve God if you do not possess intense love for Him. Loving God means that we put God first, every time and at all times. Lord, I place my life in your hands. What will you have me to do? Amen. This prayer is an indication that we are ready to put all of our desires aside. Our commitment to obey and faithfully trust in God is a covenant vow that we strive to keep despite our circumstances.
I like to think of loving God with all of my heart, soul, and mind as feeling so desperate that I cannot live without Him.
Thought for today: The next time you are faced with the temptation to sin, remind yourself out loud, God, I love you more than the desire to sin.
Bible verse: And this is love: that we walk in obedience to his commands. As you have heard from the beginning, his command is that you walk in love. 2 John 1:6
God, thank you for loving us unconditionally and for giving us the ability to love. We commit to loving you with all of our hearts, souls, and minds. From today forward, we will faithfully serve and trust in you for as long as we live. Please give us strength in the times when we are weak, and may we have the desire to live with you forever in the New Heaven and New Earth. We pray this prayer in the Worthy Name of your Son, Jesus Christ. Amen.
Our Job Description, part 2, will focus on our relationship with others.
I just watched an amazing video about babies and children, ages six months to 4 years of age, born with a visual impairment. As the tiny glasses were placed on their faces, the reaction to seeing clearly the faces of their parents for the first time brought smiles and jubilant laughter. Through my tears, I thanked God for giving humanity the knowledge and wisdom to make ongoing healthcare advances.
The World Health Organization (WHO) defines Health Innovation: Health innovation is to develop new or improved health policies, systems, products and technologies, and services and delivery methods that improve people’s health, with a special focus on the needs of vulnerable populations. And although the WHO has received criticism, I wholeheartedly support their devoted efforts to promote efficiency, effectiveness, quality, safety, and affordability in healthcare.
From a spiritual perspective, many of us are also visually impaired. We cannot see how much God really loves us, nor are we happy or content with our present circumstances. My prayer this morning focused on gratitude. As I reflected on the past 24 hours, I thanked God for a new day and a comfortable bed with soft pillows. My day was productive: three meaningful worship sessions with God, wrote a Devotional and ate two power-packed nutritional meals. Downtime included repotting a couple of plants, playing my favorite online game, and listening to various artists’ inspirational music videos. Yes, I enjoyed another worry-free day.
Continue earnestly in prayer, being vigilant in it with thanksgiving; Colossians 4:2
My journey to a peaceful existence involved an emergency plea to God for help. A few days ago, I was blinded by self-reliance. My spirit was crushed because my focus was diverted from God to the presenting circumstances. After a couple of sleepless nights, I became sick and tired of my visual impairment. After reading, Jeremiah 31:3, 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,” I had a real-talk with God. Me: God, I know that you love me. But I feel so distant from you, my insomnia has returned, and I feel anxious. Please tell me what I need to do to feel your love and to calm my worries. God answered me through the lyrics in a song: Place your life in God’s hands, and you will experience complete peace.
Immediately, I recognized that God was speaking to me. I stopped what I was doing and prayed a simple prayer: God, I place my life in your hands. What will you have me to do? Amen. Every day, I commit to placing my life in God’s hands and pray that He opens my eyes that I may see His loving plans for me. Throughout the day, I make a conscious effort to express my gratitude by just saying, Thank you, God. I love you. Like the babies, I am smiling and laughing because, for the first time, I am really seeing my Heavenly Father.
Our Heavenly Father’s arms are long enough to wrap around each of us. He patiently waits for us to commit our lives to Him. Go ahead! Seeing God clearly is a life-changing experience.
I will give thanks to the LORD because of his righteousness; I will sing the praises of the name of the LORD Most High. Psalm 7:17
Bible Reading: Psalm 34
God, we commit our lives to you. Please reveal your plans, and help us to realize that you love us with an everlasting love. In Jesus’ Name, we pray. Amen.
When I attended college, purchasing used textbooks was the best option for those on a financial budget. It was an excellent way to save and also a source of income for those who were sellers. The trend was to use the previous editions even if a newer, more costly edition had been published. Hopefully, being part of a study group where at least one person had the latest edition kept the rest of us up-to-date. Times were rough, so before my start date, I purchased used books at a low price. I was thrilled to approach my academic year with preparedness and have a little money left-over.
However, my joy was short-lived. I received the email with the syllabus for my science course that contained a warning. Within one year, new and updated theories were proven and introduced. The professor’s letter stated: To successfully pass this course, you must use the new 12th edition. Not only did I have to purchase the new book, but I was also the proud owner of an outdated book that decorated my bookshelf. From that experience, I learned the valuable lesson of not making premature decisions based on presumption or saving a few dollars.
At least we have one Book that will never change. We can be thankful that the Word of God, the Holy Bible, which includes the Old Testament and the New Testament, will never require updates. For truly I tell you, until heaven and earth disappear, not the smallest letter, not the least stroke of a pen, will by any means disappear from the Law until everything is accomplished. Matthew 5:18. Have you thought about why Jesus emphasized that not one aspect of the Law, God’s Holy Word, would ever change?
Do you believe that God is Omniscient? Yes, God knows everything from the beginning to the end. God was fully aware that Satan would use his cunning deception to create the concept of an “Old Covenant vs New Covenant” controversy to disallow the Old Testament. Regrettably, many 21st century Believers have fallen for the false teaching that the Old Testament is obsolete.
1 Joyful are people of integrity, who follow the instructions of the Lord.
2 Joyful are those who obey his laws and search for him with all their hearts.
3 They do not compromise with evil, and they walk only in his paths.
4 You have charged us to keep your commandments carefully. Psalm 119:1-4
Dear friends, do not believe everyone who claims to speak by the Spirit. You must test them to see if the spirit they have comes from God. For there are many false prophets in the world. 1 John 4:1
Staying close to God by praying and studying the Bible along with the guidance of the Holy Spirit keeps us in His presence, and prevents us from being deceived. The earth is the LORD’s, and everything in it. The world and all its people belong to him. Psalm 24:1. Satan counts on those who use self-interpretation to add or delete from the Bible. If you hear concepts that are not biblically supported, pray for the Holy Spirit to provide you with knowledge, wisdom, and spiritual discernment. Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved, a worker who does not need to be ashamed and who correctly handles the word of truth. God is and always will be in control of this world! 2 Timothy 2:15
Modern society has suffered from the prevalence of misinformation, deception, embezzlements, scams, and ever-increasing crime for so long that many of us have become desensitized and have gradually embraced the concept of “this is just the way it is.” Because we have failed to obey God’s command: Therefore, come out from among unbelievers, and separate yourselves from them, says the LORD. Don’t touch their filthy things, and I will welcome you. 2 Corinthians 6:17, we have compromised God’s standards by applying worldly concepts to the Word of God.
False Teaching: The New Testament is not an updated version of the Bible intended to replace an outdated, Old Testament.
The New Testament is a fulfillment of the Old Testament; therefore, the entire Bible is complete and stands as God’s Word forever and ever. Amen. All Scripture is inspired by God and is useful to teach us what is true and to make us realize what is wrong in our lives. It corrects us when we are wrong and teaches us to do what is right. 2 Timothy 3:16
The Change: During the Old Testament times, God required the killing of a perfect Lamb to forgive sins (read Leviticus 5:7 for exceptions). These laws were known as the Ceremonial laws. In the Old Testament, the death of the lamb pointed to Jesus, the perfect Lamb of God who shed His blood to die for the Redemption of our sins. For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life. John 3:16. Jesus’ death was required, or humanity would cease to exist.
The Plan of Salvation was fulfilled and guaranteed by Jesus’ death and resurrection. When Jesus comes again, those who are faithful will receive the reward of immortality in the New Heaven and the New Earth. In whom we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, according to the riches of his grace; Ephesians 1:7.
From Genesis to Revelation, the Bible was written by holy men inspired by God and provides us with all we need to know about God. Never would our God change, delete, or rearrange the scriptures. Only humanity under the influence of Satan would be so bold as to challenge the Word of God! Even so, remember that our Omniscient God always has the answer even before the problem or situation arises.
Fact check: God was fully aware that Satan would seek to change the 7th day, Saturday-Sabbath by proclaiming that it was only for the Jewish religion.
And on the seventh day God finished his work that he had done, and he rested on the seventh day from all his work that he had done. 3 So God blessed the seventh day and made it holy, because on it God rested from all his work that he had done in creation. Genesis 2:2-3
I have not found any disclaimers or exceptions to Genesis 2:2-3 that support keeping 9 of the 10 commandments. Personally, I am not willing to take the chance of challenging the 7th-day Sabbath, because I desperately want my reward of Eternal life. Nothing is ever an after-thought with God. God has not abolished the Old Testament nor has He made updates to His commandments.
Fact check: The Ten Commandments are still valid today, including the specific command to “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, but he rested on the seventh day. Therefore the LORD blessed the Sabbath day and made it holy. Exodus 20:8-11
Fact check: God has given us the knowledge and wisdom to evolve into a modern-day society that could not include animal sacrifice to forgive sins. Hence, that is the only aspect of the forgiveness of sins that changed from the Old Testament biblical times to the 21st century. Jesus Christ is our High-Priest, who is in Heaven, acting on our behalf as our Intercessor. Just as we approach God through prayer, song, and praise with reverence, faith, and trust, those who lived in Old Testament times also enjoyed the privilege of worshiping God and being in His presence spiritually.
Before the Fall of Adam and Eve, they enjoyed face-to-face communion with God in their state of sinlessness and immortality. Genesis tells us that God created humanity to be in His presence. Disobedience to God, which is a grievous sin, changed the privilege of us physically being in the presence of God.
But the LORD God called out to the man, “Where are you?” “I heard Your voice in the garden,” he replied, “and I was afraid because I was naked; so I hid myself.” Genesis 3:9-10. As a Heavenly Father, the Lord God visited Adam and Eve every day. Remember, they were the only two human beings in the Garden of Eden. Adam would have been very fearful if this was the first time God visited them. Adam expressed that his fear was because He knew that He was naked and did not want God to see his nakedness. God did not tell Adam and Eve that they would become naked if they ate from the forbidden tree. He said to them that they would die.
Did Adam and Eve understand that their nakedness was the result of their disobedience? The Lord God already was aware that Adam and Eve had sinned. The Omniscient God knew their exact location, 11 “Who told you that you were naked?” asked the LORD God. “Have you eaten from the tree of which I commanded you not to eat?”…but asked the question so Adam would confess that He had disobeyed and sinned by eating from the Tree of the Knowledge of Good and Evil. Because of our sinfulness, many questions will remain unanswered. But one thing is for certain, from the beginning of the creation of human life, all have been given the privilege of being in the presence of God spiritually.
A trait that we are born with is curiosity. We always seek after the unknown. Now from a spiritual perspective, this is an excellent way to live, always seeking righteousness. The Nation of Israel was no different than we are. Recall that they lived in Egypt, a land filled with false idols that could be seen. Some things are consistent in the human race. The people in the Old Testament also had the desire to see God. I will cause all My goodness to pass before you,” the LORD replied, “and I will proclaim My name—the LORD—in your presence. I will have mercy on whom I have mercy, and I will have compassion on whom I have compassion.” But He added, “You cannot see My face, for no one can see Me and live.” Exodus 33:19-20
In our current state of sinfulness, we would suffer an immediate death from God’s Shekinah glory. “God is spirit, and his worshipers must worship in the Spirit and in truth.” John 4:24. Even so, please know that it does not take a church building for us to experience the presence of God. In our vehicles, prayer closets, outdoors in nature, anywhere and everywhere, we can worship and enjoy the presence of God. We are not required to have an earthly priest, minister, or pastor approach the throne of God on our behalf. As children of the Most-High God, we have the privilege to seek God for ourselves.
Have you ever prayed a silent prayer? God does not place physical stipulations or restrictions on worshiping Him. As long as we are truthful and possess a humble and contrite heart, we can enjoy God’s spiritual presence. Every person from Genesis to Revelation has received the opportunity to be in God’s presence, and I can assure you that being in His presence gives unspeakable joy.
One day soon, we will behold our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ face-to-face in all of His glory. Father, I want those You have given Me to be with Me where I am, that they may see the glory You gave Me because You loved Me before the foundation of the world. John 17:24
Preparing for Eternal life, one day at a time.
Bible Reading: Exodus 40:34-38
God, we thank you for the privilege of being in your presence any time we choose. You are our firm foundation in a world full of chaos. Thank you for loving and caring so much for us that you gave your only Son, Jesus, to die for us. Please guard us against the deceptions and the spiritual wickedness in high places. We will be careful to give you the praise, the honor, and the glory that you rightfully deserve. We ask this prayer in the Name of the Worthy Lamb, Jesus Christ. Amen.
Hurdling is the act of running and jumping over an obstacle at speed. Hurdling forms the basis of a number of track and field events, which are a highly specialized form of obstacle racing. In these events, a series of barriers known as hurdles are set at precisely measured heights and distances, which each athlete must pass by running over. Failure to pass over, by passing under or intentionally knocking over hurdles, will result in disqualification. https://athleticscoaching.weebly.com/hurdles.html
What does it take to run and jump over obstacles physically? Training, speed, and agility are required for a runner to become successful as a hurdle jumper. There are many concepts that the runner must know, but one of the most interesting is to:
Drive with the knee. Don’t drive with the toe. If you drive with the toe, you’re going to hit the hurdle, and force your body up, go slow and probably fall down. Make sure that the knee is up and powerful. https://youtu.be/T97kkzRMEAY
Although the runner can learn the theoretical concepts of jumping hurdles, they will not be successful in the sport if they are unable to master the physical skills. It would appear that training the body to glide over waist-high hurdles effortlessly would be the most challenging task that a runner can face. But are you aware that runners use mini-hurdles to get faster and become more agile? Commitment to a regimen of never-ending physical training, along with the proper nutritional intake, and 8-10 hours of rest is required to stay healthy for peak performance.
I have told you all this so that you may have peace in me. Here on earth, you will have many trials and sorrows. But take heart, because I have overcome the world. John 16:33
The life of a Believer in the Most-High God requires jumping many spiritual hurdles. The sorrows, trials, tribulations, and challenges we face are the mini-hurdles that should produce peak spiritual performance. But usually, when we face the storms in life, we feel incapacitated because our perception is limited. We see the hurdles as waist-high obstacles that are impossible to jump over. Then discouragement sets in, all because we forget to place our faith and trust in God. Just as the runner makes the commitment to train, we must put forth the effort to build our faith. Let us hold fast the confession of our hope without wavering, for He who promised is faithful. Hebrews 10:23
Do not focus on the obstacles in your life! With a humble heart, immediately pray and ask God for 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. God knows the spiritual growth and development we require, and He will continue to allow us to face hurdles until our character reflects the Character of Christ. Remember, Sanctification is a life-long process that we must go through until the Second Coming of Jesus Christ.
Therefore, since such a huge crowd of witnesses surrounds us to the life of faith, let us strip off every weight that slows us down, especially the sin that so easily trips us up. And let us run with endurance the race God has set before us. Hebrew 12:1
What do we need to do to run with endurance? Just as the athlete needs to train for agility, strength, and speed, we need to diligently study the Bible, increase our prayer life, and possess unwavering faith and trust in God. There is a significant difference between an accomplished athlete and a Believer. Even with a coach, training to reach peak physical performance is based on the runner’s abilities. Self-reliance is the athlete’s means to achieving success; hence, the reason behind the arrogance of “I did this based on my own abilities.”
Thankfully, God does not require us to resolve our challenges based on our limited abilities. In fact, God desires just the opposite of self-based achievements, and self-reliance, Create in me a clean heart, O God, and renew a right (humble) spirit within me. Psalm 51:10. Without humility and faith we can not please God. Spiritual growth thrives off of trust in God. Pray and wait. Seek the LORD while he may be found; call on him while he is near. Isaiah 55:6.
Live with the mindset that your life will include hurdles. There is no other path that will produce spiritual perfection. Do you not know that in a race all the runners run, but only one receives the prize? Run in such a way as to take the prize! 1 Corinthians 9:24. So go ahead, when the obstacles are placed in front, behind, and on both sides: Call on the name of the Lord! “Then call on me when you are in trouble, and I will rescue you, and you will give me glory.” Psalm 50:15
Bible Reading: Psalm 27
God, we thank you for the Sabbath day, 24 hours, to focus on our spiritual growth and development. You knew that we could not reach peak spiritual performance without a day of rest from all the cares of this world. Please forgive us for not faithfully trusting in you. As we strive to reach peak spiritual performance, we ask for the strength to endure. We ask this prayer in the Worthy Name of Jesus. Amen.
As a nurse, it is imperative that we remain level-headed and in control under all circumstances. My definition of control probably differs from your description: Possessing the knowledge and skills to take the appropriate action to resolve the presenting situation. Like military organizations, the nursing profession molds and retrains our minds. The expectation is to use critical thinking, astute judgment, and follow the regulations and standards to ensure that safe, quality care is delivered to our patients. Naturally, the shaping of my thought processes has spilled over into my personal life. And because of my professional traits, I have faced a spiritual conflict for quite a long time. The sin of self-reliance keeps resurfacing.
Yes, my belief in God’s promises is strong; however, I had to acknowledge my sins of doubt and self-reliance during worship this morning. It was time that I faced the fear of completely placing my life in God’s hands. After I confessed to God that I have been trying to help Him out with his plans for me, our Heavenly Father did not scold me. He directed me to read a very comforting Devotional entitled, “Fear Not…I Am With Thee.”
Through prayer, I made a covenant with God to go all the way and place my life in His hands. Proverbs 3:5-6 has become a personal goal: Sonya, Trust in the LORD with all your heart; do not depend on your limited understanding. God, I make the vow to seek your will in all that I do because I know that you will show me which path to take. Amen. The little nagging worries of wondering how everything will come together and be resolved has left. I received a breakthrough today when I committed to living a faith-based life. The burden of trying to make plans for the unknown future is no longer my concern.
Our world is in a crisis, but God is not! Of David. A psalm. The earth is the LORD’s, and everything in it, the world, and all who live in it; Psalm 24:1.
Our Omniscient God is waiting for us to believe His promise: Do not fear, for I am with you; do not be afraid, for I am your God. I will strengthen you; I will surely help you; I will uphold you with My right hand of righteousness. Isaiah 41:10
Instructions for total dependence on God:
A final word: Be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. 11 Put on all of God’s armor so that you will be able to stand firm against all strategies of the devil. 12 For we are not fighting against flesh-and-blood enemies, but against evil rulers and authorities of the unseen world, against mighty powers in this dark world, and against evil spirits in the heavenly places. 13 Therefore, put on every piece of God’s armor so you will be able to resist the enemy in the time of evil. Then after the battle, you will still be standing firm. Ephesians 6:10-13
Bible Reading: Ephesians 6:10-20
God, we are tired of carrying the burden of not fully believing in your promises. We ask forgiveness for the sins of doubt and self-reliance. Thank you for loving us and giving us peace. We promise to wait and trust for your plans to be revealed. Thank you for hearing and answering our prayer that we ask in the Worthy Name of Jesus. Amen.
Have you ever had the opportunity to stay in a 5-star hotel? The outward appearance is not only exquisite, but it is also breath-taking and appeals to all of the five senses. Four years ago, my employer, United Healthcare, conducted a 2-day seminar in the Gaylord Texas Resort & Convention Center located in Grapevine, Texas. The Atrium immediately transports you into a tropical paradise that makes you forget all of your worries.
Although the hotel is a visual paradise, it’s outward appearance is not enough. A 5-star hotel has personality and character traits. Coyle Hospitality reports, Consistent, exceptional service is arguably, the single most important distinguishing factor between a five-star hotel and other hotels. Outward beauty without exceptional customer service would place the Gaylord Texan Resort in the category of just another nice place to stay.
Believers, what about us? Are we living a 5-star life that testifies to the world that we followers of Jesus Christ? When we interact with others including our family, can they see and hear that we are different?
Yesterday, on social media, I read a religious article that concentrated on the biblical knowledge required for us to know who God is and the impact that the scriptures have on living a righteous and holy life. What may or may not be surprising to you are the arguments that occurred between Believers. How can we represent God to others when we post remarks that are open for every eye to see? Disunity is very disturbing, and is always ungodly behavior. There should be no debates regarding the Word of God. All Scripture is inspired by God and is useful to teach us what is true and to make us realize what is wrong in our lives. It corrects us when we are wrong and teaches us to do what is right. 2 Timothy 3:16.
When Jesus stood trial before Pilate, the Roman Governor, the Jewish people hoped that He would be condemned (Read Luke 23). What I love about Jesus is that He never argued, and unless He was teaching, His demeanor was quiet and He was a man of few words. So Pilate asked him, “Are you the king of the Jews?” Jesus replied, “You have said it.” But, Then said Pilate to the chief priests and to the people, I find no fault in this man. Luke 23:3-4. Jesus’ answers were always thought-provoking, and required the person asking the question to perform an in-depth self-evaluation.
Jesus lived a perfect and sinless life. Yes, Jesus Christ lived a 5-star life. You may think, “Well, He is the Son of God.” Think about the Baby Jesus being born to human parents, Mary and Joseph. They had the responsibility of raising Jesus just like our parents raised us. The same spiritual, mental, emotional, and physical growth and development that occurred in us from birth through adulthood, Jesus, the Son of Mary, and Joseph also experienced.
The advantage that Jesus had was that He stayed close to God through constant studying and prayer. He desired to please God. What attribute did Coyle Hospitality rank as number 1 for a 5-star hotel? Exceptional service! For us to be 5-star Believers, we must give outstanding service to God and others.
Jesus replied, “You must love the Lord your God with all your heart, all your soul, and all your mind.” 38 “This is the first and greatest commandment.” 39″ A second is equally important: Love your neighbor as yourself.” Matthew 22:37-39.
But we who live by the Spirit eagerly wait to receive by faith the righteousness God has promised to us. Galatians 5:5
So I say, let the Holy Spirit guide your lives. Then you won’t be doing what your sinful nature craves. Galatians 5:16
But the Holy Spirit produces this kind of fruit in our lives: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, 23 gentleness, and self-control. There is no law against these things! Galatians 5:22-23
And it is impossible to please God without faith. Anyone who wants to come to him must believe that God exists and that he rewards those who sincerely seek him. Hebrews 11:6
Work at living in peace with everyone, and work at living a holy life, for those who are not holy will not see the Lord. Hebrews 12:1
We can only achieve a 5-star life when we have the mindset and commitment to be a servant of the Most-High God. “For even the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve others and to give his life as a ransom for many.” Matthew 20:28. Jesus, our Role-Model, lived a 5-star life, not based on the pursuit of comfort or wealth. While on this earth, as a human being, Jesus gave God all of the honor, praise, and glory for His infinite love, grace, and mercies. The Son of God was obedient to God even unto the death required to fulfill the Plan of Salvation. So, go-ahead, develop the mindset and continue striving to live a 5-star life.
Pressing Toward the Goal-Written by the Apostle Paul I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize of God’s heavenly calling in Christ Jesus. Philippians 3:13-14
Bible Reading: Luke 23
God, we thank you for the gift of your Son, Jesus Christ who willingly died on the cross that we may live a 5-Star life, now and for eternity. We ask you to give us the strength to put all foolishness aside and to faithfully serve you. Thank you for hearing and answering our prayer that we ask in the Worthy Name of Jesus. Amen.
It is Satan’s work to discourage the soul; it is Christ’s work to inspire with faith and hope. Desire of Ages 249. Ellen G. White
Moments ago, I watched an ad on youtube.com for a nonprofit organization that provides clean water to underserved persons. Who would think that a vital substance that most take for granted is in short supply and impacting over 785 million people globally? The organization’s founder sold all of his possessions and volunteered for Mercy Ships, a charity foundation whose mission is: To provide free healthcare and improve healthcare delivery systems in the poorest nations. During the ship’s travels to many developing countries, he realized that a phenomenal amount of individuals, especially children, were dying from drinking dirty water. And he did something about it! charitywater.org
It is impressive that this charity is one of the few where donations are divided into two categories: Wells for clean water receives 100% of monies donated, and the Overhead costs are funded by socially responsible companies and philanthropists. Because of his integrity, and love for God, over 1 million people are now actively involved in providing clean water by their social and financial commitments to make this world a better place.
I immediately began to pray and thank God for supplying all of my needs and having good people with loving hearts that care about others’ welfare. The earth is the LORD’s, and everything in it. The world and all its people belong to him. Psalm 24:1. God is still in control of the world that He created. Planet Earth will always have a Nation of people doing their part to alleviate humanity’s suffering. Although oceans apart, our hearts are bound together by our love for God and each other.
It is a fact that the challenges in our lives can leave us feeling defeated. But that is only one way of looking at our circumstances. We can connect with the invisible God during our trials and tribulations and allow Him to become visible in our lives. Give all your worries and cares to God, for he cares about you. 1 Peter 5:7. After watching the story of charitywater.org, I began to question my relationship with God. If I believe in God’s promises, why am I feeling crushed when the storms of life are raging? So this morning, I prayed and asked God to give me the answer to increasing my faith and trust in Him. God, please tell me how to have a deeper relationship with you. God’s response: “Make it Personal.”
Let’s think about the time and effort we put into our friendships, or meeting that special one that you hope is your soul-mate. When we engage in healthy relationships, we give our best, and we offer 100% of ourselves. We are loving, compassionate, and seek to make others happy and content. Even so, relationships are reciprocal–give and take, both individuals must desire to build a foundation based on commitment, trust, and transparency (honesty). To have friends, family, and significant others who say I love you through words and actions just makes our lives complete.
…the LORD appeared to him from far away. I have loved you with an everlasting love; therefore, I have continued my faithfulness to you. Jeremiah 31:3
Dear friends, let us love one another, for love comes from God. Everyone who loves has been born of God and knows God. 8 Whoever does not love does not know God because God is love. 1 John 4:7-8
Throughout the Bible, we can read stories of God’s love, grace, and mercy. In fact, the character of God is continuously revealed from Genesis to Revelation. Because He knows that our intentions are good, but our faith wavers, God tells us to entirely rely on His love, and power. Matthew 6:19-34 provides us with the solution to feeling defeated when our tank of Faith (and bank account) is empty. Psalm 27 dispels every fear and emphasizes faith and trust in God.
For I am the Lord, I change not…Malachi 3:6 first part. Loving relationships are based on commitment and produce enthusiasm and excitement. For the solution to making our relationship personal with God, ask yourself: Am I giving my best to God? For each of us, this question is up-close and personal.
After some serious self-evaluation, I have come to the conclusion that I can do better. Yes, I am the one who keeps changing by allowing doubt and unbelief, based on my circumstances, to interrupt my love relationship with God. Now that I have identified the wayward behaviors that prevent me from obtaining spiritual growth, I can focus on building a deeper relationship with God based on commitment, trust, and transparency (honesty). God, I am ready to make it personal.
Bible Readings: Psalm 23, and 1 Peter 5
God, we often lose sight of your love, grace, and mercies that you freely give to us everyday. It is our desire to have a personal, and committed love relationship with you. God, we love you. Thank you for loving us. We pray this prayer in the Worthy Name of Jesus. Amen.
Steps 2 Success with Spiritual Solutions 
You must be logged in to post a comment.