If your actions inspire others to dream more, learn more, do more, and become more, you are a leader. —John Quincy Adams
It is a widespread belief that based on our character traits, we are either leaders or followers. Leaders are seen as the strength of society; they are the movers and the shakers, always developing and embracing innovative ideas and motivating others to do their best. Followers rely on others to create, direct, and implement plans of action; they give their support by actively participating in bringing the plans to completion.
Are you a leader or a follower?
God requires the Believer to fulfill both roles: We are to become spiritual leaders and followers.
Then Jesus said to his disciples, “If any of you wants to be my follower, you must give up your own way, take up your cross, and follow me.” Matthew 16:24
Witnessing to others, And he said to them, “Go into all the world and proclaim the gospel to the whole creation. Mark 15:16
Pursuing righteousness and possessing godly character traits; When they see your respectful and pure conduct. 1 Peter 3:2. But the Holy Spirit produces this kind of fruit in our lives: love, joy, peace, patience, gentleness, goodness, faithfulness, and self-control. There is no law against these things. Galatians 5:22-23
Possessing love, compassion, and care for others; Learn to do good. Seek justice. Help the oppressed. Defend the cause of orphans. Fight for the rights of widows. Isaiah 1:17. O people, the Lord has told you what is good, and this is what he requires of you, to do what is right, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with your God. Micah 6:8
Active discipleship reveals that we have accepted both roles as spiritual leaders and followers. We can inspire others by sharing our testimony about the blessings that God has given to us. When our spiritual eyes are open, we can see the many opportunities to speak, encouraging words of comfort, greet others with a smile, offer to pray, use social media to post scriptures, etc.
Loving God, loving others, and loving ourselves equips us with the desire to serve. It takes humility, faith, and obedience to become a follower of Jesus Christ. Blessed are the meek (humble), for they will inherit the earth. Matthew 5:5. Our love relationship with God prepares us to be faithful followers. “Look, I am coming soon! My reward is with me, and I will give to each person according to what they have done.” Revelation 22:12
Life, as a believer, just became easier. Now that we know our purpose, we can fulfill the dual roles of being the leader and follower that God has determined for us to become.
Bible Reading: 1 Peter 3
God, we thank you defining our roles as spiritual leaders and followers of you. We pray that you show us how to actively fulfill our responsibilities to witness and care for others. We ask this prayer in the Worthy Name of Jesus. Amen.
Nothing tends more to promote the body and soul’s health than does a spirit of gratitude and praise. It is a positive duty to resist melancholy, discontented thoughts, and feelings–as much a duty as it is to pray–Ellen G. White, The Ministry of Healing, p 251
“… Don’t be dejected and sad, for the joy of the LORD is your strength!” Nehemiah 8:10
We have so much to be thankful for, even when we are experiencing severe hardships. The Bible instructs us to communicate with God daily through prayer, but do we include thanksgiving praises for suffering? It is easy to become sad and burdened by our trials and sorrows; even so, God desires that we develop a different approach when we pray, and that is to praise Him for allowing us to suffer.
Not only that, but we rejoice in our sufferings, knowing that suffering produces endurance, and endurance produces character, and character produces hope, and hope does not put us to shame because God’s love has been poured into our hearts through the Holy Spirit who has been given to us. Romans 5:3-5
We are in the fight of our lives against sin. God has developed a fail-proof method of keeping us from sin’s wages, which is death. Suffering is the path that all must walk down for us to achieve spiritual growth and maturity. God’s Word reveals that suffering produces endurance, a righteous character, and hope for a brighter future. Now that we know the purpose of suffering, we can change our perspective and embrace God’s perfect plan.
Suffering produces spiritual growth!
Reaping the benefits of a new and improved character and unwavering faith can only be obtained through hardships. It is not God’s purpose to punish us. It is His purpose to prepare us for a perfect life without sin in the New Heaven and New Earth (Revelation 21-22). Changing our perspective of suffering, and embracing God’s perfect plan with faith and obedience will prepare us to receive our heavenly reward.
Have you ever picked vegetables from a garden? They are quite different from the store purchased vegetables that have been cleaned and polished. It takes careful and dutiful washing of hand-picked vegetables to remove the dirt, debris, and bugs. For those of us who did not perform the cleansing task well, the veggies that looked great and had a pleasing aroma also contained grit’s residue.
Our characters contain the residue of sin that requires many thorough cleanings. God does not force us to accept His will for our lives. Each of us has been given a “free will of choice” to trust and obey God by following His plan or developing and pursuing our desires. However, if we pray as King David prayed, “Create in me a clean heart, O God, and renew a right spirit within me.” Psalm 51:10 then we can expect God to begin the cleansing process that will refine us according to Galatians 5:22-23: 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!
If we desire to serve God, we align our desires according to His plans, including a life with hardships, sorrows, tests, and trials. Endure hardship as discipline; God is treating you as his children. For what children are not disciplined by their father? Hebrews 12:7. God is love; therefore, His plans have the intent and purpose to remove the residue of sin as we pursue righteousness by faith.
“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
No, Spiritual cleansing and discipline will never feel good, but if we pray, praise, obey, and trust in God, we will receive blessings from having a pure heart. Blessed are the pure in heart, for they will see God. Matthew 5:8. God has promised us the blessing of Eternal life in the New Heaven and New Earth. Trust His process; approach life with a spirit of gratitude by praying, praising, and thanking a loving and patient God who desires that none are lost.
The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases; his mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning; great is your faithfulness. Lamentations 3:22-23
Bible Reading: Hebrews 12
God, we thank you for the discipline of hardships. We desire to have pure hearts and characters that are pleasing to you. We ask forgiveness of our sins. Thank you for your never-ending grace and mercies that you freely give to us, although we have done nothing to deserve them. Please give us the strength to endure as we prepare for Eternal life. We ask this prayer in the Worthy Name of Jesus. Amen.
Although we are in a pandemic, and social distancing curtails the transmission of the COVID-19, still, it does not feel good to practice separation and isolation. Genesis 2: 18 tells us, “The LORD God said, “It is not good for the man to be alone. I will make a helper suitable for him.”
Because of the death and devastation caused by sin’s consequences, we must develop and adapt to measures that enhance our physical safety. Achieving and maintaining optimal health is our way of thanking God for fearfully and wonderfully, making us in His image.
Believer Alert: Despite the circumstances, we have the responsibility to witness to others. “Am I my brother’s keeper?” Cain asked God after killing Abel, his brother. Yes, we are the keepers of humanity, and we are to do more than offer a prayer for those in need, whether it is financial or emotional support, God expects us to go above and beyond speaking words. Read Luke chapter 10 for the parable of The Good Samaritan.
Rethink your purpose for utilizing social media as a method of providing spiritual and emotional support. Sickness, death, and poverty have impacted many individuals and families facing overwhelming hardships. Today, I share a memory from my Facebook page that I posted on 9/6/2012. My prayer is that someone who reads this message of encouragement about Jesus will believe that He truly loves and cares for us unconditionally.
Weeping Hearts
There are so many people who sit by their fireplace all alone! They sit…and cannot restrain the tears that flow. They sit alone so much, not realizing there is someone who is unseen and just within their reach. There is, however, something even better than realizing, and even more blessed. It is this: recognizing that unseen presence, which is so wonderful, quieting, soothing, calming, and warming. So recognize the presence of the Master. He is here, close to you, and His presence is real.
Yes, there is immeasurably more–the truth is a presence, not a thing, a fact, or a statement. Some One is present, and He is a warmhearted Friend and the all-powerful Lord. This is a joyful truth for weeping hearts everywhere, no matter the reason for the tears. Samuel Dickey Gordon
Bible Reading: Luke 10
God, we pray for those with weeping hearts because of loss, and loneliness. You have promised to heal our broken hearts, and we ask you for comfort. We believe your promises to provide our needs, and we pray in faith as we wait for you to alleviate our suffering. Thank you for hearing and answering our prayer that we ask in the Worthy Name of Jesus. Amen.
27 All things have been entrusted to Me by My Father… 28 Come to Me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. 29 Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. Matthew 11:27-29
In Nehemiah 8, the Israelites asked Ezra, the priest, and scribe, to read the Law of Moses, which the Lord had given Israel to obey. The Levites…then instructed the people in the Law while everyone remained in their places. They read from the Book of the Law of God and clearly explained the meaning of what was being read, helping the people understand each passage. Nehemiah 8:7-8
As we read the first verse of Nehemiah 8, we find that the people asked for the Law of Moses to be read to them. Why would they gather as a whole community and ask for God’s Law to be read to them? Because of their love for God, they possessed the desire to live righteously and in unity as Believers. Without the scriptures, we would be left to our imaginations to define right vs. wrong, good vs. evil, and holiness. God forbid!
Our profession of faith extends beyond words. Our commitment to God is based on our love for Him. It is love that produces obedience and the desire to develop a character aligned with Galatians 5:22-23. What else would motivate us to attend church, the mosque, the synagogue, the temple, etc.? We gather to worship our Creator and be around fellow believers. (With the current health risks, we can certainly appreciate and be thankful that we had the experience of worshiping together and hearing the Word of God.)
The Bible is our spiritual mirror. God has given us the Bible not only to define and clarify His standards but also to provide us with a historical overview of humanity’s falls and triumphs when they relied on his Divine Intervention. The scriptures reveal that God’s character is based on love; the Bible is the Voice of God. For us to attain spiritual growth, we have the responsibility of studying the Word of God daily.
Do we have the desire to have an up-close and personal relationship with God? Reflecting on the people, places, and things that we pursue answers this important question, “Am I living to please God or myself?” It is our priorities that reveal where we stand in our relationship with God. Sanctification requires that we set ourselves apart from all worldly sins and strive to live a holy and consecrated life. Our spiritual journey is a life-long pursuit. The Plan of Salvation requires turning away from all sin in any form.
It is through faith that we accept the invisible God, and obey his precepts as found in the Bible. God has provided a road-map that reveals the only way that we can be saved, and that is to believe in Jesus Christ who died for our sins, and was resurrected. It is the faithful who obediently place their lives in God’s hands, and seek to live a righteous and holy life.
Do not let sin control the way you live; do not give in to sinful desires. Romans 6:12
We do not live by the concept of “once saved, always saved.” Our struggle against sin is daily. We must confess, repent, and live holy and acceptable lives according to God’s standards of righteousness. Searching the scriptures reinforces God’s love and His promises to humanity. The Bible also identifies and reminds us of our responsibilities when we make a covenant to serve God.
And Nehemiah, who was the governor, and Ezra the priest and scribe, and the Levites who taught the people said to all the people, “This day is holy to the LORD your God; do not mourn or weep.” For all the people wept as they heard the words of the Law. Nehemiah 8:9
It comes as no surprise that the people cried as they listened to the scriptures. We cannot hide from the exposure of our transgressions and sinful desires when we read and hear God’s Word. True conversion reveals itself through remorse, confession, and repentance; the pleasures of sin produces sorrow and painful consequences. Yes, our hearts should be saddened by our iniquities, but God through His grace and mercies never leaves or forsake us.
God was aware that human beings would be disobedient and possess selfish desires. Because of love, He created us, and Jesus made a covenant with His Father to die for us. The Plan of Salvation included Redemption, which necessitated the death of God’s perfect, never-sinning Son, Jesus Christ. We should always live with a spirit of gratitude by focusing on God’s love and Jesus’ commitment to providing us with an option to avoid the final death.
God is love! He never leaves us feeling hopeless or destitute. Forgiveness allows us to start over at any time when we fall, and that is reason to rejoice!
And Nehemiah continued, “Go and celebrate with a feast of rich foods and sweet drinks, and share gifts of food with people who have nothing prepared. This is a sacred day before our Lord. Don’t be dejected and sad, for the joy of the LORD is your strength!” Nehemiah 8:10
We have this hope that Jesus is coming again to gather those who have made the commitment to serve him. By dedicating our whole hearts, souls, and minds to God, we prepare ourselves for Eternal life. “Behold, I am coming quickly. Blessed is the one who keeps the words of prophecy in this book.” Revelation 22:7. The Bible reveals the ungodly sins and characteristics that we possess, but Redemption covers us through forgiveness when we approach God with humble hearts.
Rejoice that we have the Word of God! Rejoice for the Plan of Salvation! Rejoice that we have God the Father, Jesus Christ, His Son, and the Holy Spirit as our spiritual team, always promoting hope! Rejoice that our Burden-bearer has promised to give us rest, which is peace despite our circumstances!
Bible Reading: Nehemiah 8
God, we praise you for creating us in your image. We thank you for approving the sacrifice of your Son, Jesus, who died to give us Redemption. Please forgive our sins and shortcomings. We love you and commit to living holy and acceptable lives as we wait for the Second Coming of Jesus Christ. We ask for your Divine Intervention in our lives. Thank you for hearing and answering our prayer that we ask in the Worthy Name of Jesus. Amen.
Give all your worries and cares to God, for he cares about you. Stay alert! Watch out for your great enemy, the devil. He prowls around like a roaring lion, looking for someone to devour. Stand firm against him, and be strong in your faith. Remember that your family of believers all over the world is going through the same kind of suffering you are. 1 Peter 5:7-9
The benefits of being a Believer in the Most High God, Jesus Christ, His Son, and the Holy Spirit, which comprise the Trinity, are numerous. But I must confess that the best part of serving an invisible God is that He is visible in my life. I have learned who God is by studying the Bible and believing that if He said it, then it is truth. So, I share this reality with you: I know that God has heard and answered all of my prayers. Many times His answer did not match the answer that I desired; nevertheless, I fully trust in Him and faithfully committed to placing my life in His hands.
God speaks to us in various ways, through sermons, inspirational writings, uplifting music, fellow believers, and righteous thoughts. There are times when we find ourselves in a state of confusion: Is this God’s answer? Is this what He wants me to do? When we seek solutions for our tests and trials, use this concept as your standard, “God Does Everything for His Glory.” I am the LORD; that is My name! I will not give My glory to another or My praise to idols. Isaiah 42:8. If the answer to your circumstances does not glorify God, then the answer is not from God!
It may be challenging to understand the concept of God-glorifying himself; even so, acceptance of this fact provides us with the standard to differentiate between righteousness and unrighteousness.
God Does Everything for His Own Glory Because He is God
God made people out of a desire to glorify himself. If it didn’t glorify God to make us, to save us, to love us, he wouldn’t have done it. God never ever puts anything above himself. The fact that God made and commands all living creatures to worship him is the very evidence he alone is God. God putting himself first is the greatest testament to God truly being God. If he were not absolutely committed to his own adoration, this would point to the fallacy of his claims that he alone deserves worship. If he placed anything above himself he would be breaking his own first commandment, “You shall have no other gods before me” (Exodus 20:3). Mark Ballenger https://applygodsword.com/god-does-everything-for-his-own-glory-verses/
We serve a God who is loving and compassionate. God cares about you and me. So why do we choose to worry and take on the responsibilities that God promised to take care of?
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
For I know the plans I have for you,” says the LORD. “They are plans for good and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope. Jeremiah 29:11
And it is impossible to please God without faith. Anyone who wants to come to him must believe that God exists and He rewards those who sincerely seek him. Hebrews 11:6
Yes, God is fully aware of our challenges, still, we must humble ourselves and ask through prayer for His help. Human effort + Divine Intervention = Victorious Outcomes. Do not get caught in the trap of trying to understand the process; ask, believe, wait, and trust in God. Know that most Believers are suffering. It is a sign that we are following in the footsteps of Jesus, who lived a life of enduring constant hardships.
God is our refuge and strength, always ready to help in times of trouble. Psalm 46:1
Submission to God is not a guarantee that we will not suffer, total surrender to God displays our willingness to say, “Yes, God, we believe that you will work out everything for your glory and my good.”
And we know that God causes everything to work together for the good of those who love God and are called according to his purpose for them. Romans 8:28
Bible Readings: Psalm 27, Romans 8
Make your prayer a personal one by filling in your circumstances:
Prayer: God, we submit our will and our lives to you. We need your help. We do not have: _______________________________________________ We ask for your intervention to alleviate our suffering. We believe in your promises to provide in our times of need. Thank you for hearing and answering our prayer that we ask in the Worthy Name of Jesus. Amen.
And we know that God causes everything to work together for the good of those who love God and are called according to his purpose for them. Romans 8:28
As time moves forward, the hope of receiving a second stimulus check is rapidly weakening. While an ongoing tug-of-war ensues, individuals continue to suffer from the devastation of the crash of the economy and the loss of family and friends from the COVID-19 virus. Broken promises, limited monies, unemployment, a global health crisis, escalation of hatred, grief, and hurricanes that destroyed homes filled with precious memories are just a few of the everyday hardships that bind us together into one race.
Remember, that Humanity has more likenesses than differences!
Psychologists are reaching out by providing online articles that teach coping skills for dealing with loss, broken promises, and understanding the bad behavior exhibited by those in leadership positions. There is a crisis that extends beyond the personal feelings of “Despair and Desperation.” We are in a dilemma that reveals the limitations of human capabilities. Strategies, recommendations, and enforcement by politicians and health-care professionals have resulted in further hostility and rebellion, and the proclamation of the violation of constitutional rights.
Most of us live under a state of Democracy, and are not willing to adhere to the dictates of those we elected, nor will we give in to the reality that we are powerless. And that is the mistake of embracing and harboring humanity’s second most outstanding enemy, Pride! Pride proliferates from a seed into a forest of twisted branches and dominates every thought, behavior, and action of its victims. Every intentional act that results in a negative outcome is fueled by Pride. Thinking only of oneself has resulted in homes where family members are forced to swim in a daily sea of unhappiness. The “I” concept produces the selfish and enduring love of oneself, which creates a toxic/unhealthy environment for all involved.
Believer Alert: We are not exempt from possessing the Sin of Pride.
Everyone who is arrogant in heart is an abomination to the Lord; be assured, he will not go unpunished. Proverbs 16:5
Pride goes before destruction, and a haughty spirit before a fall. Proverbs 16:18
The Bible is God’s Voice to humanity. Throughout the scriptures, God warns us against Pride. The Sin of Pride eventually destroys those who love and nurture this unnecessary evil. Yes, many innocent victims suffer the consequences of decisions based on Pride. At some point, most of us have fallen prey to this sinister enemy. Have you ever insisted on having your way, even if it resulted in hurting your family and friends?
Pride always produces defiance! Pride is a powerful enemy that exhibits itself externally. Just look at the face and body posture of someone who is having a prideful moment. They possess a defensive stance as if preparing for battle. Pride has no boundaries or limitations, the mannerisms exhibited and the words expressed are always for the detriment of others.
Live in harmony with one another. Do not be haughty, but associate with the lowly. Never be wise in your own sight. Romans 12:16
We are not compelled to possess the character trait of Pride that even God despises. If you insist on having your way at the expense of others or always thinking of yourself as the ultimate authority based on your knowledge, social status, job position, etc., make an immediate change by letting go of this ungodly character trait that kills compassion, and the love for others.
God has promised to work with us when we decide to rid ourselves of our character defects. He tells us, “Blessed are the meek (humble), for they will inherit the earth. Matthew 5:5. Do not be concerned about the viewpoint that “kindness is a weakness.” God blesses us, and He honors those who bow to humility. It takes our most extraordinary efforts to resist the stronghold of Pride. Even so, we can and will overcome when Human Effort + Divine Intervention work together in harmony.
The struggle of Pride is real. But we can be assured that if God causes everything to work out for our good, He will give us the victory over the Sin of Pride.
If my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and I will forgive their sin and will heal their land. 2 Chronicles 7:14
Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding; 6 in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight. 7 Do not be wise in your own eyes; fear the LORD and turn away from evil.…Proverbs 3:5-7
Bible Reading: Proverbs 16
God, we confess that we have embraced Pride’s sin and have hurt others and ourselves by doing so. We ask for forgiveness and ask you to teach us how to be humble. We desire to rid ourselves of all character defects as we prepare ourselves for your Second Coming. We ask this prayer in the Worthy Name of Jesus. Amen.
Can both fresh water and salt water flow from the same spring? James 3:11
Recently, I read a quote by C.S. Lewis that prompted me to research and find out more about the individual who stated:
The moment you wake up each morning, all your wishes and hopes for the day rush at you like wild animals. And the first job each morning consists of shoving it all back, and listening to that other voice, taking that other point of view, letting that other, larger, stronger, quieter life come flowing in.
Although Clive Staples Lewis was a British writer who held academic positions in English literature at Oxford and Cambridge Universities, he was also a theologian who considered himself to be a Believer in God. When we reflect on the quote, certainly his words reflect life from a spiritual perspective, and point to the depth of our relationship with God.
Awakening to a new day proclaims that we have been given the priceless gift of God’s love, grace, and mercies: The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases; his mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning; great is your faithfulness. Lamentations 3:22-23. God’s mercies are unmerited favor, we can never do anything to deserve His gifts that are freely given nor should we take those gifts for granted.
How do we become the best that we can be? It is our duty to change and develop our character. 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
By presenting our wishes, hopes, and plans daily to God in prayer, and asking for His blessing and guidance, we achieve spiritual growth. No matter how organized our to-do list is, or the resolutions we make, only Divine Intervention combined with human effort can provide perfect peace, harmony, and maturation. God is the other voice that C.S. Lewis refers to, it is God that provides us with the other point of view. The “other, larger, stronger, and quieter life” is a benefit from serving God.
“For I know the plans I have for you,” says the LORD. “They are plans for good and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope.” Jeremiah 29:11
God has designed the road map for us to develop into our very best, spiritually, mentally, emotionally, and physically. It is a freewill choice to follow His plans that require unwavering faith, trust, and commitment to serve and obey. Following God’s map leads us down the Road to Salvation that has dangerous curves, bumps, potholes, and detours. Even so, He has promised to never leave us or forsake us; it is only through God that we can change. Our characters must align with the Fruit of the Spirit. Stay on the road, God has developed customized journeys that are specific to our needs. Yes, it is rough, but we are never alone.
Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight. Do not be wise in your own eyes; fear the LORD and turn away from evil.…Proverbs 3:5-7
The quiet voice of the Holy Spirit speaks to us when we place ourselves in that quiet mode to hear with our spiritual ears, “Be still, and know that I am God!” Psalm 46:10. On the hierarchy of created beings, we were created a little lower than the angels who are God’s heavenly messengers, and protectors of all humanity. If the angels know their purpose is to obey and worship their Creator, how much more should we serve God in humility?
With God we can strive to achieve spiritual perfection in our life-long journey of Sanctification. Through prayer, diligent study of the Bible, and obedience, we stay connected to the vine, Jesus Christ. Strive to become the godly person who seeks after righteousness. Our willingness to change invites our Spiritual Team to unleash power and give us strength to be our very best.
Bible Reading: James 3
God, we ask you to help us to become the best person we can be. We acknowledge that we are in need of your Divine intervention and guidance in our lives. Please forgive us for the sin of self-reliance. We ask this prayer in the Worthy Name of Jesus. Amen.
Steps 2 Success with Spiritual Solutions 
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