Steps 2 Success with Spiritual Solutions

As of 4/15/2020, the total number of coronavirus cases in the United States was 605,390, and the total deaths, 24,582.

As of 4/17/2020, the total number of coronavirus in the United States is 661,712 cases, and the total deaths, 33,049. cdc.gov

We are steadily progressing in our plight against COVID-19. Still, we must not despair. Preparation time is upon us. Jesus is coming soon!

As Believers in God, we should never experience the State of Panic and Desperation that the residents in Michigan display as they block streets and demand the retraction of the Stay at Home order. If you have never seen the power of Satan before the infiltration of COVID-19, then his power is visible for all to see. But understand this: In the last days, terrible times will come. For men will be lovers of themselves, lovers of money, boastful, arrogant, abusive, disobedient to their parents, ungrateful, unholy, unloving, unforgiving, slanderous, without self-control, brutal, without love of good, traitorous, reckless, conceited, lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God, having a form of godliness but denying its power. Turn away from such as these! 2 Timothy 3:1-4

Someone posted this morning, it is our right to stand up against injustice. Does our definition of injustice align with the spiritual interpretation of injustice? Yes, we can agree that death is a grievous punishment for disobedience; but sinning against the God who created us in His image and who showers us with grace and mercy is even more heinous than death. We are not compelled to sin, it is always a willful decision to fall into temptation and sin against God. For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus, our Lord. Romans 6:23.

It is only through God’s loving kindness, and mercy that we are not destroyed when we sin and break His commandments. We can approach His throne of grace with sorrow and repent, receiving His wonderful forgiveness as we move forward in our spiritual journey. Because of the loving devotion of the LORD, we are not consumed, for His mercies never fail. 23They are new every morning; Great is Your faithfulness! Lamentations 3:22-23

Isn’t death the end? For the living know that they will die, but the dead know nothing. They have no further reward because the memory of them is forgotten. Ecclesiastes 9:5. It isn’t that we forget our loved ones that pass away, the hard reality is that life continues as if the deceased never even existed. Even so, passing away from the present earth is not the final death.

As believers, if or when we fall asleep from death–because some individuals will be alive for the Second Coming of Jesus. We are promised Eternal life whether we die in Christ or if we remain alive. As we know, God’s promises require “active participation.” Based on the individual decision to follow God and to stay faithful to the end determines our destiny. God has done all that is possible for us to receive the reward of immortality. It is not a difficult choice to choose God. We have a Spiritual team ready to assist 24/7, and all we have to do is whisper a prayer and call for help.

God’s Promises:

For the Lord, himself shall descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the archangel, and with the trump of God: and the dead in Christ shall rise first: Then we which are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds, to meet the Lord in the air: and so shall we ever be with the Lord. 1 Thessalonians 4:16-17. It is not until the Second Coming of Jesus Christ that the enemy of death that Christ overcame will be abolished.

Read Revelation chapters 21 and 22 daily. We must never give up or give in to fear or uncertainty. Jesus is coming again! Hallelujah! The reward of Eternal life is real, God has prepared a perfect home for us, and we must never forget His promises of the New Heaven and New Earth that await us.

And I heard a loud voice from the throne saying: “”Behold, the dwelling place of God is with man, and He will dwell with them. They will be His people, and God Himself will be with them as their God. He will wipe away every tear from their eyes, and there will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain, for the former things have passed away.”” And the One seated on the throne said, “”Behold, I make all things new.”” Then He said, “”Write this down, for these words are faithful and true.” ” …Revelation 21:3-5

Stay in His Presence, Stay Prayerful, and Stay in the Word

© Sonya Johnson Ruiz 2020

Be still and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations; I will be exalted over the earth.” Psalm 46:10. 

There are many obstacles to achieving spiritual growth that is necessary for living a faith-based life. As I reflected on the various distractions, habits, and behaviors that are detrimental to our relationship with God, the Holy Spirit gave me the answer. For the resolution of spiritual dilemmas, pray and turn to the Bible for guidance and solutions, and the answer is found in Genesis chapter 1.

Fully aware that Genesis 1 gives the account of Creation, I still pondered on what God was revealing to me. God created the world using a systematic and orderly manner. He laid the foundation by creating light and separating it from the darkness. Finally, on the sixth day, animals and humans were created, only after all conditions would support and sustain their lives. God requires that our lives reflect order, structure, and discipline.

Many individuals agree that their time-management and organizational skills could use significant improvement. There are never enough hours in the day to manage our usual responsibilities, and then we have to deal with the unexpected events and distractions that keep us busy from morning until night. Is it really our fault that our lives are so chaotic? After all, God does understand that we are doing the best that we can under the present circumstances. Doesn’t He?

You must worship no other gods, for the LORD, whose very name is Jealous, is a God who is jealous about his relationship with you. Exodus 34:14

Unless we practice paganism, then we may overlook our idols–our habits of disorganization and spontaneity, or wasted hours spent watching television, playing online games, etc. If we do not monitor the time we use to fulfill our desires before we realize it, we are just too tired to spend quality time with God.

So when do we have time for God? How can we incorporate worshipping Him by singing, praying, and studying the Bible in our hectic lives?

Since the Stay at Home was implemented, most of us have been provided with a breath of fresh air. We have extra time on our hands and can do a spring cleaning or complete our to-do list or just relax. On the other hand, not every home is comprised of single persons or couples without dependents. Many parents have become aware that their children possess undesirable behaviors, and they are in the process of retraining and enforcing structured schedules for the completion of school assignments.

Despite the obstacles, our relationship with God should be first and foremost in our lives. The answer to living a faith-based life is to live a life that is decent and in order. The habit of awakening to a new day and not have any idea of what you will accomplish or the failure to prioritize your to-do list results in time wasted and is an underlying cause of stunted spiritual growth. Every aspect of the Believer’s life has spiritual meaning. Because of God, we are to think, act, and behave differently from those who are self-reliant.

Does the Word of God address the issues of structure and order or maintaining a Balance in Life?

Ecclesiastes 3:1-8 reads:

There is an appointed time for everything. And there is a time for every event under heaven— A time to give birth and a time to die;
A time to plant and a time to uproot what is planted.
A time to kill and a time to heal;
A time to tear down and a time to build up.
Read more.
A time to weep and a time to laugh;
A time to mourn and a time to dance.
A time to throw stones and a time to gather stones;
A time to embrace and a time to shun embracing.
A time to search and a time to give up as lost;
A time to keep and a time to throw away.
A time to tear apart and a time to sew together;
A time to be silent and a time to speak.
A time to love and a time to hate;
A time for war and a time for peace.

You already know these things, dear friends. So be on guard; then, you will not be carried away by the errors of these wicked people and lose your own secure footing. 2 Peter 3:17

Living by faith requires that we know what God expects of us. Without prayer and diligent study of the Bible, and waiting patiently until God intervenes on our behalf–then we follow trends or end up as the Laodecians described in Revelation 3:14-22. The same Holy Spirit that was present on the Day of Pentecost (Acts 2) is the same Holy Spirit that will lead us and guide us into a life of Righteousness by Faith.

It was never God’s plan for us to live a scurrying lifestyle; in fact, we have written evidence of his plan for humanity. So the creation of the heavens and the earth and everything in them was completed. On the seventh day, God had finished his work of creation, so he rested from all his work. And God blessed the seventh day and declared it holy because it was the day when he rested from all his work of creation. Genesis 2:1-3

Saturday, the 7th day is the day that God rested from all of his work. “And evening passed and morning came, marking the first day. Genesis 1:5, last part. The seventh-day Sabbath is from Friday sunset to Saturday sunset. The Sabbath is God-ordained, and He has never changed any aspect of His commandments. The fourth commandment admonishes us to remember the Sabbath, and because God rested on the seventh day, He has deemed Saturday-Sabbath Holy.

The minds of humans are at enmity against God and righteousness. Behold, I was brought forth in iniquity, And in sin, my mother conceived me. Psalm 51:5. Obedience to God is the only answer to applying his commands to our practical lifestyles. We must live according to his will. Most of us have tried many options to produce a change in our lives, and we have failed.

Making the decision to keep the Sabbath is a significant commitment to God. It is a significant life event, reaping many benefits, including a deeper relationship with God and a structured and orderly mindset and lifestyle.

What difference does a day make?

The Saturday-Sabbath allows us to place all secular activities and problems aside for 24 hours. During those 24 hours, we thank God for victoriously bringing us through the week, and we focus on our spiritual relationship with God. Our bodies and minds are refreshed, leading to renewed vigor and a positive, peaceful outlook because we fully trust in God.

At the age of 5 years old, I learned of the seventh-day Sabbath. I have come to appreciate that God ordered my steps throughout a tumultuous and stormy life. Even when I lost my way, I always remembered the blessing of the Sabbath. Fast forward 61 years, and I could never imagine living my life without the special day that God has gifted humanity to commune with Him, nor can I express the peace that comes from living a faith-based life.

Be anxious for nothing, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think on these things.… Philippians 4:6-8

Make a timeline, and journal your time on an hourly basis. You may be surprised at the time that can be utilized in a more productive manner.

“Oh friend, do you love Jesus? Yes, I love Jesus. Why do you love Jesus? Here’s why I love Jesus because he first loved me. Oh, how I love Jesus!” If we love, then we obey. Without holiness, no individual can be with God. Eternal life is coming very soon.

Stay in His Presence! Stay Home and Stay Alive!

“So you, too, must keep watch! For you do not know the day or hour of my return.” Mathew 25:13

© Sonya Johnson Ruiz 2020

 

 

 

Taking a stand for what is right and what is truth appears that you have lost the battle. You have not, God always rewards those for standing against injustices. Sonya Johnson Ruiz RN

https://www.msn.com/en-us/news/us/coronavirus-santa-monica-nurses-suspended-for-refusing-covid-19-care-without-n95-mask/ar-BB12Jb6s

Let no one deceive you with empty words, for because of such things God’s wrath comes on those who are disobedient. Ephesians 5:6

Before becoming a Registered Professional Nurse, I was an LVN for many years. My scope of practice was limited to direct patient care, collecting patient data, subjective and objective, and reporting all abnormal symptoms and patient reports to the RN in charge or to the Physician.

Progressing up the career ladder significantly changed my responsibilities. Patient safety was first and foremost, not just physical safety but also ensuring that the physician orders for medications and treatments were accurate, well-tolerated, and effectively producing results. For example, if a patient is taking an antibiotic for an infectious disease, then improvement should be noted within 24-48 hours without visible or reported adverse reactions.

As my scope of nursing practiced expanded, my focus was no longer limited to provide hands-on patient care. I was responsible for performing nursing assessments while using astute nursing judgment, critical thinking skills, and the nursing process to manage patient care, and to document and report said findings to the patient’s healthcare provider. As a Registered Nurse, I had the responsibility of managing my patient’s disease and educating the patient to self-manage under the direction of their physician. And above all, I was licensed to determine and carry out prudent actions under all circumstances and for every patient.

What is prudent behavior? An action is prudent if it is the wise thing to do under the existing circumstances. … It is possessing excellent and careful judgment when handling all patient matters. Being prudent is to carry out a wise and well-thought-through decision or action.

Depending on the patient’s condition, the process of using sound judgment, critical thinking based on theoretical knowledge, and developing a prudent plan of action must be executed in a matter of seconds. Healthcare providers have no room for error when we are dealing with human beings, our patient’s lives are in our hands. We adhere to ethical standards and possess a commitment to the preservation of life, based on nonmaleficence–that nurses must do no harm intentionally.

Now add in my status of being a Believer in God, my mindset does not contain a gray or unknown area. My outlook on life is based on truth and error, right and wrong, and to live without compromise. Since January, I have monitored the progression of the COVID-19 virus, and as one nurse boldly expressed, “the recommendations and actions that we are being forced to take, go against everything that we have been taught and licensed to perform.”

If the tug of war did not exist among healthcare experts and politicians, the general public would have immediately received the necessary health education for protective measures against the coronavirus. Moving forward, it is senseless to place the blame on an entity or person, our focus must be on the safety of humanity. My heart breaks as I read the comments posted on Facebook, demanding that we resume our normal way of living, and it is due to a lack of knowledge.

For the many individuals who are infected or the families that have lost loved ones without the opportunity to say good-bye, I cannot imagine that their thoughts are on the economy. Believers, where do you stand? Is your faith in God wavering based on the economy?

If yes, then Jesus has this answer:

So do not worry, saying, ‘What shall we eat?’ or ‘What shall we drink?’ or ‘What shall we wear?’ 32 For the pagans run after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them. 33 But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. 34 Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own. Matthew 6:31-34

Our prayer must be as David prayed: Search me, O God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts. Point out anything in me that offends you, and lead me along the path of everlasting life. Psalm 139:23-24

There are many areas in our lives that the Stay at Home ordinance allows us to accomplish:

1. Spiritual growth–By praying and studying the Word of God, our faith grows, and we act and think prudently because we ask for wisdom and place our lives in God’s hands. …God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in times of trouble. Therefore we will not fear, though the earth is transformed, and the mountains are toppled into the depths of the seas… Psalm 46:1-2. If any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to him. James 1:5
2. Lifestyle changes–Learning to cook and selecting foods that promote health in the body and the mind. Indoor exercising. Bonding with family through daily worship, becoming a part of your children’s educational growth, discovering creativity skills, and having fun. Most importantly, incorporating structure and discipline to create a peaceful and loving home. Beloved, I pray that in every way, you may prosper and enjoy good health, as your soul also prospers. 3 John 1:2. Make every effort to live in peace with everyone and to be holy; without holiness, no one will see the Lord. Hebrews 12:14
3. Helping others–Many parents struggle to assist their children with school assignments. Teachers are desperately needed to guide and instruct, calls to seniors who are isolated and lonely would be appreciated. We can use Messenger, Skype, Facetime, etc., and our cell phones to stay in contact with each other. God is not unjust; he will not forget your work and the love you have shown him as you have helped his people and continue to help them. Hebrews 6:10
4. Increasing our knowledge–Stay up-to-date with credible sources: cdc.gov, fda.gov, WHO.int. Beware of sensationalism and fake news. For the LORD gives wisdom; from his mouth come knowledge and understanding. Proverbs 2:6

Our spiritual journey on this earth, as we know, is coming to an end. Even so, Jesus has given us this promise: “Don’t let your hearts be troubled. Trust in God and trust also in me. 2 There is more than enough room in my Father’s home.  If this were not so, would I have told you that I am going to prepare a place for you? 3 When everything is ready, I will come and get you, so that you will always be with me where I am. 4 And you know the way to where I am going.” John 14:1-4

© Sonya Johnson Ruiz 2020

The progression of the coronavirus in the United States from January 2020 through yesterday, April 15, 2020. Reference: cdc.gov. Please note that these are only the reported cases and deaths, the CDC acknowledges that the actual numbers remain unknown.

• January 2020      Cases:4,226      Deaths:75
• April 15, 2020     Cases:605,390  Deaths: 24, 582

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Then Saul, still breathing threats and murder against the disciples of the Lord, went to the high priest and asked letters from him to the synagogues of Damascus, so that if he found any who were of the Way, whether men or women, he might bring them bound to Jerusalem. Acts 9:1-2

The metamorphosis of a caterpillar to a butterfly is a fantastic process. For a caterpillar to become a butterfly, it must endure the time necessary to change from a crawler to a flyer. And so it is with our salvation, sanctification is a life-long process. We must never think that salvation is a passive process.

The life of a Believer is full of suffering, trials, and tribulations. With God, our storms are abated through His grace and mercies. We receive the blessing of “Peace be Still” or we would not have the strength to endure. Actively seeking God today ensures us of His guidance and protection. Yesterday is a passing memory, and we are not promised tomorrow. Just as the world is dynamic, and constantly changing, Believers strive for spiritual growth every day.

God does not view sin on our level. We have a tendency to categorize sin in numerical importance as a ladder with many steps to climb or descend. He is able to cleanse all from unrighteousness. Based on our prior behaviors and lifestyles, the spiritual journey is never the same for any one individual. Trust God, regardless of our background, habits, or dysfunctional lives; God will convert and transform us if we only confess and repent (active participation).

When we look at the prior history of the Apostle Paul, as Saul, he was so ruthless in his pursuit to persecute Christians that God had to physically blind him to get his attention. Saul picked himself up off the ground, but when he opened his eyes, he was blind. So his companions led him by the hand to Damascus. He remained there blind for three days and did not eat or drink. Acts 9:8-9

Many of us are still asking the same question as Saul asked, “Who are you, Lord?” We can only receive our answer when we pray and study the Bible (active participation). God never disappoints those who are willing to do their part in the Plan of Salvation. We can be transformed into the likeness of Jesus Christ only by our willingness to give up self-reliance and disobedience and to learn who God really is (active participation).

If God can take a vigilante with murderous thoughts and convert him into a godly servant and a noble Apostle, then He is ready to do anything that we ask in His name (active participation). The Lord is not slow in keeping his promise, as some understand slowness. Instead, he is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance. 2 Peter 3:9

We are slowly progressing toward the cessation of the Stay-at-Home and Shelter-in-Place ordinances. However, we cannot, nor should we resume our prior way of life? God has given us time to align our priorities with His will and direction for our lives. Constant prayer and studying the Word of God are necessary to renew our covenant daily with God.

COVID-19 is a wake-up for every individual who desires Eternal life. God has shown us that this is still His world, and He will forever be in control. We have been crippled and shut down on a global level in every aspect of our lives; physical health, economic disaster, mental and emotional collapse, and rational thought processes abolished by indecision and foolishness.

For those who question God’s presence or power, refer to Job 38:4, “Where were you when I laid the foundations of the earth? Tell me if you know so much.” Dear God, we admit that we know nothing. Thank you. It is only because of your grace and your mercies that you chose to spare many of us who know the way but are still disobedient. We ask you to continue to give us a hedge of protection from the coronavirus. Please reveal to us your plans as to how we should move forward. We ask this prayer in the Worthy Name of Jesus. Amen.

© Sonya Johnson Ruiz 2020

 

There is a way that appears to be right, but in the end, it leads to death. Proverbs 14:12

This morning I prayed a Prayer of Confession and Repentance before praying a Prayer of Intercession for my brothers and sisters in Christ. I asked God to reveal to each of us how to live faith-based lives. There is an enormous gap between believing in God and applying spiritual principles to our lives, as evidenced by worry, fretting, and confusion.

“Be still, and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations. I will be exalted in the earth.” Psalm 46:10. We acknowledge that the Bible is the Voice of God. When we receive instruction, it is a command, not a suggestion or recommendation. When God tells us to be still, it means that we are to pray and wait for His Divine intervention.

Yes, we do have a choice, as Adam and Eve made their decision to doubt and disobey God with deathly consequences. Satan used a beautiful serpent, visual imagery, to speak the deathly words; “You will not die. In fact, you will have the knowledge of a god.” We have a modern take on disobedience to God, it is impatience, and our desire to help God resolve the problems that diminish our faith and continue to lead us astray.

Pray and listen carefully to the quiet voice of the Holy Spirit.

You see and recognize what is right but refuse to act on it. You hear with your ears, but you do not really listen. Isaiah 42:20

Are you rushing through your prayers? Have you allowed God to speak victory into your life? Make the commitment to obey God, do not look at the bleak circumstances with your finite mind. Disbelief and wavering faith place limitations on the power of God in your life. He promised that he would never leave us or forsake us. His promises extend to every circumstance, stand firm on the Word of God. Live as if you know that God has you in His loving arms.

Satan accused God of protecting Job because he faithfully served him.

Job suffered severe trials and tribulations. He was unaware that God had placed a hedge of protection on his life when he was experiencing the greatest trials documented in the Bible. His children perished, and his wife openly demonstrated that she did not trust in “Job’s God.” Job’s close friends said: “Oh, you had to do something for God to bring this curse upon your life.”

Are we unable to hear God’s voice because we are listening to everyone else? The current pandemic is revealing who we really trust in, is it God or man? We are not alone! Our spiritual team, who never sleeps, is always ready to guide us out of harm’s way. For He will put his angels in charge of you, to guard you in all your ways. Psalm 91:11. There is no guarantee that we will survive this pandemic. Even so, we should have the perfect peace that comes from the Father above. Very soon we will have Eternal life if we so choose.

God’s Promise:

When you go through deep waters, I will be with you. When you go through rivers of difficulty, you will not drown. When you walk through the fire of oppression, you will not be burned up; the flames will not consume you. Isaiah 43:2

Our proclamation of faith and trust in God:

If the God whom we serve exists, then He is able to deliver us from the blazing fiery furnace and from your hand, O king. But even if He does not, let it be known to you, O king, that we will not serve your gods or worship the golden statue you have set up.”” Daniel 3:17-18

Stay at home ordinance has allowed us to learn who God really is. Our part is to exercise our faith and trust in God by knowing what His promises are and waiting for His Divine guidance.

Pray, Study, Believe, Wait and Listen:

When you go through deep waters, I will be with you. When you go through rivers of difficulty, you will not drown. When you walk through the fire of oppression, you will not be burned up; the flames will not consume you. Isaiah 43:2

Dear Brothers and Sisters believe as Job: But I know that my Redeemer lives, and in the end, He will stand upon the earth. Job 19:25

Pray for wisdom, do not be led astray by unbelievers, and do not be presumptuous. Remember that it is impossible for God to make a mistake. “For My thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways My ways,” declares the LORD. “For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so My ways are higher than your ways and My thoughts than your thoughts. Isaiah 55:8-9

Bible reading: Isaiah 43, 55

© Sonya Johnson Ruiz 2020

https://www.cnn.com/2020/04/14/us/bishop-gerald-glenn-god-larger-coronavirus-dies/index.html

Jesus answered: “Watch out that no one deceives you.” “Therefore keep watch, because you do not know on what day your Lord will come.” Matthew 24:4,42

As I stay up-to-date on the current situation with the coronavirus, our nation, the United States of America is in a time of panic. We have traveled through several phases: Blame, Disbelief, Fear, Demand for the tangible, Rebellion, Demand to return to work, Compromise, and Negotiation, and now many are caught up in this repetitive cycle. We are listening to many “Self-proclaimed Saviors” who are prideful and full of arrogance, under the influence of Satan, they have incited hatred, and civil unrest yet, they have many followers, including those who acknowledge God.

Now the Spirit expressly states that in later times some will abandon the faith to follow deceitful spirits and the teachings of demons, influenced by the hypocrisy of liars, whose consciences are seared with a hot iron–their consciences are dead. 1 Timothy 4:1-2

Are you experiencing the phases of the mass anxiety and hysteria that keeps recurring over and over again? No matter how many miles you cycle, a stationary bike will never move from its position. Many who call on the name of God are also caught up in this vicious cycle of emotional responses to our current adversity. Despite their efforts, they are unable to break away from the influences of this world.

Technology is excellent, and we have accomplished witnessing the gospel of Jesus Christ through online church services, sermons, and uplifting music. Even so, many Believers are fixated sitting in front of their televisions or laptops daily, hearing so many conflicting reports that they are in a state of self-destruction. There is a critical adverse reaction of technological advancements, and that is the over-saturation of stimuli.

Believers, what is the importance of the media in your life? How are you being influenced by what you see and hear? Is your mind just as confused as the unbelievers? Therefore, my dear brothers and sisters, stand firm. Let nothing move you. Always give yourselves fully to the work of the Lord, because you know that your labor in the Lord is not in vain. 1 Corinthians 15:58

We must be cautious of what we expose our minds to; the senses of vision and hearing will cause many to be led astray. One of the most effective methods of visual imagery is with the use of lights. The gambling industry even goes as far as employing psychologists to create a perfect ambiance and level of comfort for their customers. Lighting is manipulated to provide a comfort zone, the ideal balance between brightness and dimness is achieved to facilitate the wasting of financial resources.

Clubs also use lights and sound to influence those who are intoxicated from alcohol and illicit drugs, and yet they are not held responsible for the many lives lost to DUI and DWIs. And who is not mesmerized by photos that display a nighttime view of a city of lights? Do you love fireworks? It is not a critical point that I emphasize regarding lights and the display of lights (except for gambling and clubs where lights are utilized for deceptive purposes). It is to increase our awareness that visual and auditory stimuli impact the way we believe.

Many are familiar with the phrase, “We are what we eat.” However, the audible sounds have a phenomenal influence on our lives. We are greatly influenced by what we listen to. The rhythmic beat of a drum which is in sync with the rhythm of the heart has the power to create a hypnotic or passionate state of mind often utilized in Satanic rituals, or the beat of the drum can be used positively to encourage a synchronized march of individuals or to enhance a musical selection. Music is being used for every purpose imaginable, for good and evil, facilitating peace or destruction.

Do we turn our heads to avoid the worldly temptations that are pleasing to the eyes? “The eye is the lamp of the body. If your eyes are healthy, your whole body will be full of light.  But if your eyes are unhealthy, your whole body will be full of darkness. If then the light within you is darkness, how great is that darkness! Matthew 6:22-23

How often do you read a hard copy of positive information that nourishes the mind? The newspaper, a book, or your Bible? Even if you have the habit of only using electronic gadgets, incorporate reading materials that require the turning of pages. Touch is one of the most powerful senses that we have. Physical contact enables us to develop attachments.

When we utilize all of our given senses, we are less likely to possess a tumbleweed mindset. Reading a good book requires an intent focus, we can contemplate on the information presented, and we gain the knowledge to incorporate the necessary lifestyle changes to make us a better person. The guideline for choosing a book is that it should honor God. We should not read materials that are written by unbelieving authors that focus on worldly pleasures. Make sure the articles you read are by a credible author. Check out the credentials of the author before reading and absorbing their view of life.

Humanity possesses many commonalities, and the most powerful factor is that we are influenced by what we allow our senses to be exposed to. No one is exempt. It is challenging to discard bogus information once we have processed it in our frontal lobe. Watch and pray so that you will not fall into temptation. The Spirit is willing, but the flesh is weak. Matthew 26:41

The Bible, written under the inspiration of God by holy men is the book where all that is written, can fully be trusted. There are no errors or conflictual statements contained in the Word of God; therefore, we will never have a confused state of mind. When we pray before studying the Bible, we are nourished spiritually, and our mind is opened to receive knowledge, wisdom, correction, and guidance from our Jehovah Jireh.

Picking up the Bible confirms that we have the intent to take our time and study without the distractions from notifications or phone calls. The Bible, in our hands, signifies that we are ready to spend time with our Heavenly Father. With time devoted to God’s Word, we can establish excellent study habits, and most importantly, we are prevented from diminishing the “Voice of God” down to an ordinary level. The Bible enables us to distinguish the carnal, worldly things from that which is Holy and Divine and prompts us to recognize that we are fearfully and wonderfully made in the image of God, and should think and act accordingly.

What are your most significant concerns during this pandemic? Write a list and present your concerns to God. Change your habits and choose credible sources such as CNN, cdc.gov, WHO-int for daily updates. Trusting in God is our only option!

My testimony is that during my Stay-at-home, and following my spiritual fast, I am experiencing changes in the way that I think, the words that I speak, and the importance of seeking God daily. I have eliminated all distractions that facilitate conflict and have purposed in my heart to live a faith-based life, serving God until death. To possess complete peace and joy is God’s gift to all who faithfully believe in Him.

No one can serve two masters: Either he will hate the one and love the other, or he will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve both God and money. Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more than food and the body more than clothes?…Matthew 6:24-25

Bible Study: Matthew 6

Stay in His presence. Love God, Love Others, and Love yourself.

© Sonya Johnson Ruiz 2020

 

 

 

 

 

 

I have hidden your Word in my heart that I might not sin against you. Psalm 119:11

Today is the final day of my shut-in period of fasting and praying. The deficits in my character that pull me further away from God have been revealed to me through “God’s Voice.” The Holy Bible, written by men who were inspired by God, the scriptures that contain all instruction for humanity, is God’s voice to us. All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for instruction, for conviction, for correction, and for training in righteousness, so that the man of God may be complete, fully equipped for every good work. 2 Timothy 3:16-17

Even before they call, I will answer, and while they are still speaking, I will hear. Isaiah 65:24. God was fully aware of my desire for change and to deepen my relationship with Him. The Holy Spirit directed me to the scriptures that I required for the knowledge and instruction for a transformation of my character. I cannot begin to explain the difference that I feel in my life. A heavy burden has been lifted from my mind, and I can finally testify that I know what it feels like to have perfect peace through Jesus Christ, our Savior.

For anyone who desires to experience a life-changing relationship with God, all you have to do is your part, and God will fulfill his promises.

Behold, the days are coming,” declares the Lord GOD, “when I will send a famine on the land–not a famine of bread or a thirst for water, but a famine of hearing the words of the LORD. Amos 8:11. The time is here, we can no longer congregate in a church building, collectively sitting in the house of God to receive the Word and the outpouring of the Holy Spirit.

Yes, we have become accustomed to worshipping in a church building, and some Believers are angry that the church doors have been closed. Enter the master deceiver, Satan, who distracts many to focus on a required mandate rather than establishing daily prayer and study with God in their homes. If we are fixated on the mindset that worshipping God is not possible outside of a church building then we do not have an accurate understanding of the Plan of Salvation. Our personal relationship with God is not contingent on location, whether we are in our homes, our vehicles, or outside in nature, we can worship God anywhere and at any time.

Of course, we will feel a void, it is wonderful to be able to walk into the house of God. In fact, we are admonished not to forsake the assembling of ourselves because the assembling of Believers provides strength. When we are in a company of individuals who love God, it gives us a glimpse of what heaven will be like; in God’s presence with reverence, holiness, and righteousness. Our spiritual team, God the Father, God the Son, and God the Holy Spirit will always be with us. The angels are ordered to protect us from all hurt, harm, and danger. Listen carefully for the Voice of God.

Dear friends, do not be surprised at the fiery ordeal that has come on you to test you, as though something strange were happening to you. But rejoice inasmuch as you participate in the sufferings of Christ, so that you may be overjoyed when his glory is revealed. 1 Peter 4:12-13

We must redirect our focus. Set aside a place where you can commune with God, alone in the stillness of your home. Teach your family to respect your time with God, there should be no disturbances unless it is an emergent need. Even with just my husband and myself, the disruptions of the usual routine of life challenged my four-day fast. With that in mind, I prayed, realizing that the distractions were not emergencies, I placed my focus on God, and God alone.

Keeping our minds focused on our salvation, and our relationship with God will always remain a challenge. Still, we are not helpless in managing our lifestyles. Until we make a conscious decision to put God first and “just say no” to our distractions, then we are unable to reach the level of spiritual maturity that God desires for each of us to possess. During this earthly struggle, stay in tune with God. This is the time for us to choose who we will serve. God is calling us to prepare for Eternal life. He has designated this time for all Believers to place their complete faith and trust in Him.

A Call to Prayer

First of all, then, I urge that petitions, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgiving be offered on behalf of all men, for kings and all those in authority, so that we may lead tranquil and quiet lives in all godliness and dignity. This is good and pleasing in the sight of God, our Savior, who desires all men to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth. For there is one God, and there is one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus, who gave Himself as a ransom for all—the testimony that was given at just the right time. 1 Timothy 2:1-6

Can you hear God’s voice?

© Sonya Johnson Ruiz 2020