Steps 2 Success with Spiritual Solutions

Listen to Me, O house of Jacob, all the remnant of the house of Israel, who have been sustained from the womb, carried along since birth. Even to your old age, I will be the same, and I will bear you up when you turn gray. I have made you, and I will carry you; I will sustain you and deliver you. To whom will you liken Me or count Me equal? To whom will you compare Me, that we should be alike?… Isaiah 46:3-5

I can recall the exuberance and the optimism that I have possessed throughout my lifespan. When a physical disability abruptly ended my nursing career, I did not plummet into the abyss of despondency or depression. I prayed and asked God to fill me with the Holy Spirit and to reveal His purpose for my life. God answered and has blessed me with the ability to witness and to encourage others on a global level.

As a retiree, the daily challenges of life still exist, many unexpected events hit hard, problems, and obstacles that could shatter my peaceful existence. The cold winds of trials and tribulations continue to blow; still, I have decided to make God the center of my life. I believe that my little seed of faith continues to grow because God continues to bring the sunshine of His grace and mercy when I need it the most.

As we mature through the lifespan, we have a tendency to reflect on unfulfilled dreams, the failure to achieve, or we are overcome with regret for past decisions. Yes, we may even ask ourselves, “Why did I do it?” We made those mistakes and chose the wrong course of action based on the level of knowledge that we possessed at that moment in time. So be it, we must forgive ourselves, ask those who were impacted to forgive us, pray to God for forgiveness, and faithfully move forward.

God does not desire us to be filled with regret, sadness, or sorrow at any point in our lives. In Nehemiah 8:1-11, as the prophet, Ezra, and the Levites read and instructed the people from the Book of the Law of God, they began to weep. Then Nehemiah the governor, Ezra the priest and scribe, and the Levites who were interpreting for the people said to them, “Don’t mourn or weep on such a day as this! For today is a sacred day before the LORD, your God.” For the people had all been weeping as they listened to the words of the Law. Nehemiah 8:9

In every stage of life, the Word of God exposes our past and present transgressions and state of unrighteousness. Even so, God has not given us biblical instruction for condemnation. 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 we realize the true purpose of the Holy Scriptures, our lives will be filled with joy and hope.

We do not have to live as unbelievers, swimming in a sea of regret for ongoing mistakes. God’s Word teaches us what is holy and unholy and identifies the absolute truth. The lack of knowledge can never be our reason for making bad decisions, nor are we compelled to commit wrongdoing because we did not have spiritual guidance. It is up to us to believe and receive God’s plan to be filled with joy and not sorrow, to be filled with hope and not despair. Instead, you must worship Christ as Lord of your life. And if someone asks about your hope as a believer, always be ready to explain it. 1 Peter 3:15.

From birth to old age, God is here. In every life event, whether joyful or disappointing, we must include God by continually praying and studying the Bible. We serve a loving and powerful God who always keeps His promises, and that gives us a reason to forever possess inner joy.

Nehemiah said, “Go and enjoy choice food and sweet drinks, and send some to those who have nothing prepared. This day is holy to our Lord. Do not grieve, for the joy of the LORD is your strength.” Nehemiah 8:10

© Sonya Johnson Ruiz 2020

Those who listen to instruction will prosper; those who trust the LORD will be joyful. Proverbs 16:20

Have you ever pursued your own desires to the point that you start manipulating the situation to appear better than it actually is? It is human nature to seek what pleases us; in fact, we are encouraged to chase our dreams at any cost. But there is a common weakness that permeates our society, many individuals base their actions off of instinct or emotions. Desire produces determination, and there is nothing wrong with improving our lives. Nonetheless, successful outcomes rely on astute decision-making skills and a systematic process; steps based on rational thoughts, time for strategic planning, and the identification of viable goals.

It is my desire to relocate from the rural town that we live in, to a more peaceful country setting. When we began to develop the course of action that it would take to achieve this significant life event, we realized that the responsibilities would outweigh the benefits at this time in our lifespan as retirees. Because we made the choice to remain obedient to the perfect will of God, I realize that we already have the enjoyment of a peaceful life. But blessed is the man who trusts in the LORD, whose confidence is in Him. Jeremiah 17:7

In the beginning, God created the heavens and the earth. Genesis 1:1. God, who is Omnipotent, could have spoken the world into existence immediately, but He did not. Even God took the time to create the heavens and the earth on a day-by-day basis. Then God looked over all he had made, and he saw that it was very good! Genesis 1:31. The Creation was God’s strategic plan, carried out without haste, and with reflection before He continued.

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 (ceased) 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

When we place confidence in our abilities without God’s guidance, we engage in risky behaviors and ventures. So, if you think you are standing firm, be careful that you don’t fall! 1 Corinthians 10:12. We are not compelled to live a life full of regrets or mistakes. God is here! When we completely trust in Him, we will not forge full speed ahead with plans that are made in haste and without His blessings.

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

© Sonya Johnson Ruiz 2020

 

 

 

“Please test your servants for ten days. Let us be given only vegetables to eat and water to drink. Then compare our appearances with those of the young men who are eating the royal food, and deal with your servants according to what you see.”…Daniel 1: 12-13

With the Coronavirus Disease 2019–COVID-19 spreading rapidly to epidemic proportions, I am sharing professional level links that distinguish the facts about the said disease and negate the prevailing opinions of untrained individuals.

Centers for Disease Control, https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html

Our best defense against the transmission of diseases has always been proper handwashing; https://www.cdc.gov/handwashing/

Nevertheless, we can cleanse the outer body with soap and water, yet, without a strong and healthy immune system, we still remain defenseless against all diseases. We can protect ourselves by boosting our immune system with proper nutrition and a healthy lifestyle. The definition of a healthy lifestyle is subjective; most individuals will define health according to their level of knowledge and their personal food preferences.

Biblical scriptures support humanity’s original diet along with the rewards of following a plant-based diet, which was implemented by God.

Then God said, “I give you every seed-bearing plant on the face of the whole earth and every tree that has fruit with seed in it. They will be yours for food. Genesis 1:29

Daniel 1:8-20 provides an account of Daniel, Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah, and their refusal to eat the king’s royal food. At the end of the ten days, Daniel and his three friends looked healthier and better nourished than the young men who had been eating the food assigned by the king. Daniel 1:15

The human body, which is created in the image of God, is complex, and still contains mysteries that science has not been able to decipher. Even so, the general consensus among health care providers is that nutrition and a healthy Immune system are interdependent.

Changing our personal preferences is possible. With structure, discipline, and Divine intervention, we can develop healthy eating habits that strengthen our bodies and minds, along with boosting our Immune system. Take the 10-day challenge to retrain your mindset and your tastebuds. Even if it takes much longer to give up chronic disease-producing foods, make an effort to start a healthy lifestyle.

1. Pray daily for the desire and the strength to discard foods that contain high sodium, high calorie, high sugar content, dairy, and unknown ingredients.
2. Purchase a journal, develop a weekly menu, and purchase the foods that you will cook. Prepare and freeze if your time is limited.
3.  Explore the plant-based recipes on pinterest.com. You may be pleasantly surprised at the unlimited options.
4. Buy fresh herbs to season your recipes and focus on adding color to your diet; red, green, yellow, orange, purple by purchasing fruits and vegetables.
5. If weight loss is your goal, avoid simple carbohydrates. Brown basmati rice, sweet potatoes, and whole-grain bread provide options that are low in fat and taste delicious.
6. Research the variety of legumes, nuts, and recipes that utilize these foods to make nut-based vegan patties and loaves.

If we can repurpose furniture and other inanimate objects, we can repurpose our bodies by following God’s original plan. Do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own; you were bought at a price. Therefore glorify God with your body.…1 Corinthians 6:19-20

Pecan Nutloaf Recipe by Sonya Johnson Ruiz

4 cups pecans ground into pecan meal (use a food processor for best results) Alternate: 3 cups of pecan meal and 1 cup of chopped pecans

8 cups of vegan bread crumbs

2 cups of diced organic red onion and 1-2 tablespoons of garlic clove

Spices: Organic Italian herbs, parsley, add personal preferences

Organic tomatoes–enough to make 4-5 cups of tomato juice, add 1/2 cup of water and blend. Use 1 cup of tomatoes and seasonings to make a thicker paste to brush a ketchup paste on the top of the loaf.

Option: Add 4 tablespoons of organic extra virgin olive oil to liquid ingredients. Grated celery, carrots, cayenne pepper, curry powder are delicious ingredients that provide other flavors to the loaf.

Saute garlic and onions in water, let cool. Mix dry ingredients together. Combine tomato juice and olive oil. Gradually add liquid ingredients to the dry mix, it should have the consistency to stick together without being too dry.

Use a pastry brush to spread the homemade ketchup on the top of the loaf.

Bake in an oiled or non-stick baking dish or large loaf pan (non-aluminum) at 300 for 45-60 minutes. Test by inserting a knife in the center of the loaf, which should come out clean. Do not overbake.

© Sonya Johnson Ruiz 2020

Stock photo of nut loaf

We do not have peace because we do not pray.

You can identify them by their fruit, that is, by the way, they act. Can you pick grapes from thornbushes or figs from thistles? Matthew 7:16

“It takes the right situation to reveal a person’s real character.” Sonya Johnson Ruiz

When we refuse to fully embrace God’s commandments or the principles that He established for righteous living, including healthy relationships built from love (1 Corinthians 13), then we set ourselves up to fail. Through the Holy Scriptures, God has made sure that we know how to live righteously and without compromise.

Remember Cain? He was angry at his brother Abel because God rejected his sacrifice. In a sinful fit of rage, he killed his innocent brother, who obeyed God by sacrificing a lamb as instructed. Many angry believers give to God exactly what they desire to bring to him. Living every day by their definition of sacrifice, they justify their actions by boldly stating, “God knows where we are in our Christian walk with Him.”

What exactly does that statement mean? Some will proudly claim, ‘I belong to the LORD.’…Isaiah 44:5, yet, they live as if God is making allowances for their choice to compromise. When we compromise, we commit sin against God. The question is often asked, “Hasn’t God changed? The God of the Old Testament appears to be very different from the God in the New Testament.” For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus, our Lord. Romans 6:23

…Let the wicked man forsake his own way and the unrighteous man his own thoughts; let him return to the LORD, that He may have compassion, and to our God, for He will freely pardon. “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 55:7-9

The Scriptures reveal the shortcomings of humanity. Because of the LORD’s loving devotion, we are not consumed, for His compassions never fail. Lamentations 3:22. It is only by His grace and mercy that God is giving us time to develop a close relationship with him. It is not beyond our capabilities to be faithful and obedient.

Cain, because of his desire to please himself, lived a disobedient, and miserable life. It was just too much for him to offer an unblemished lamb as a sacrifice. From his story, we become aware of his true character and the sinful nature of our own characters.

Spiritual growth requires total dependence on God, His plan for us is perfect. When we forget, God allows the right situation to arise and expose our real character. The secret traits, and sins that no one knows about, but God, will be revealed as a plot in a brilliantly written book. So, if you think you are standing firm, be careful that you don’t fall! 1 Corinthians 10:12

Stand firm on God’s Word and maintain a mindset of “No compromise.” Your decision will determine your destiny–Choose Eternal Life!

© Sonya Johnson Ruiz 2020

But when you ask him, be sure that your faith is in God alone… James 1:6

Spontaneity allows for the freedom to make decisions based on whims or desires. One does not waste energy or time thinking about possible consequences; in fact, nix the long thought processes and just do it. This is not referring to a lighthearted decision, such as making a U-turn to eat at the restaurant that you just passed, using creative skills, or brainstorming to develop strategies. Spontaneous decisions are usually careless, leading to reckless behaviors that are addictive and counterproductive, and if utilized too often, the result is a dysfunctional lifestyle.

Self-reliance is another habit that places us into a dilemma resulting in adverse outcomes. Many individuals verbalize their belief in God and His power, but when the going gets tough, they demonstrate anxieties, worries, and an overall state of discontent. Everyone has been given a measure of faith, and it is up to us to do what is necessary for our faith to experience growth and maturity. It is the hard trials that enable us to wholly rely on God. Without faith, we burden ourselves with overwhelming responsibilities that God has not given us. Worry cancels out faith and brings dishonor to God!

If you kneel down to pray or to pick up something, even with closed eyes, you can change positions from kneeling to standing. Faith shows the reality of what we hope for; it is the evidence of things we cannot see. Hebrews 11:1. We must pray the prayer of a believer by presenting the problem, and completely trusting in God to provide the resolution. But he must ask in faith, without doubting, because he who doubts is like a wave of the sea, blown and tossed by the wind. That man should not expect to receive anything from the Lord.… James 1: 6-7.

Doubt leads to a spiritual fall. Our prayers are heard by a faithful God who never forgets. We do not have to offer repetitious murmurings to remind God of our situation, nor should we ask for a sign to know that He is working it out. He says, “Be still, and know that I am God.” Psalm 46:10.

“I brought you from the ends of the earth and called you from its farthest corners. I said, ”You are My servant.” I have chosen and not rejected you. 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 41:9-10

Take the opportunity to build your faith by giving God your problems, your praise, your confidence, and your total belief in Him. They are new every morning; great is your faithfulness. Lamentations 3:23

Now unto him, that is able to keep you from falling and to present you faultless before the presence of his glory with exceeding joy, to the only wise God our Saviour, be glory and majesty, dominion and power, both now and forever. Amen. Jude 1:24-25

© Sonya Johnson Ruiz 2020

 

For the pagans strive after all these things, and your Heavenly Father knows that you need them. Matthew 6:32

I recently heard a description of someone describing his best friend, “After all this time, he is still chasing rainbows.”

The life of a believer is tough. But we do have a distinct advantage, we do not have to chase blessings. The gift of Grace–God giving us what we don’t deserve along with the gift of Mercy–God preventing us from receiving what we rightfully deserve is lovingly provided every day.

God created us with the ability to achieve, to pursue goals, and to use and develop our spiritual gifts and natural talents. All we have to do is ask in prayer, and if our request is in His will, then God has promised that he would bless us. And my God will supply every need of yours according to his riches in glory in Christ Jesus. Philippians 4:19

God knows everything about us. Many times we receive blessings and fail to recognize or appreciate our gifts because we are chasing selfish desires or financial gain. It is time for us to learn everything there is to know about Him. For I know the plans I have for you, declares the LORD, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, to give you a future and a hope. Then you will call upon Me and come and pray to Me, and I will listen to you.… Jeremiah 29:11-12. 

There is much confusion regarding the phrase “to prosper.” If we immediately think of money, then we possess the mindset of unbelievers. Imagine the individual with a terminal illness, to prosper would be defined as regaining good physical health. For the family dealing with brokenness and disunity, to prosper would be defined as a loving reconciliation. So, God meets us where we are in life and blesses us and prospers us according to our individual needs.

Growing spiritually enables us to understand God’s definition of “plans to prosper.” In His grace and mercy, God waits for us to stop chasing rainbows and to fully rely upon Him.

God, we ask you to help us to stop chasing after the meaningless things of this life. Please bless us according to our individual needs. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.

© Sonya Johnson Ruiz 2020

 

 

But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God’s special possession, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light. 1 Peter 2:9

The young royal couple, Prince Harry and Meghan, are nearing their final event as Duke and Duchess of Sussex. For those who view their decision to step aside as a tough but positive move realize that Prince Harry possesses inner strength and the admirable quality of total commitment to his wife and their son. Ongoing speculation remains amid the media hype as to why one would choose to give up a royal status to live an ordinary civilian life. For intimate reasons known only to the young couple who love and honor one another, they willingly chose their happiness as a priority over birthright and status. As long as they remain faithful, the cords of love will bond them together, and they will adapt and live successfully because of their resiliency and their values.

Are we aware of the change in our status when we accepted God? 1 Peter 2:9 uses very descriptive words to define who we are and who we belong to; yet, we fail to embrace our royalty.

1. So God created human beings in his own image. In the image of God, he created them; male and female, he created them. Genesis 1:27. We have not evolved from organisms or mutated from an animal form into human beings. God says that He created us in His image. Humanity who was created to walk upright, to experience maturation–physical and mental growth and development. Throughout the life cycle, from the infant stage of helplessness to adulthood, we were given the innate ability to recognize what is dangerous and the power of choice to care for ourselves.
2. Don’t you realize that your body is the temple of the Holy Spirit, who lives in you and was given to you by God? You do not belong to yourself, for God bought you with a high price. So you must honor God with your body. 1 Corinthians 6:19-20. We belong to God, which means we praise Him in the way we dress, the music we listen to, the programs that we watch, our temperament, and our morals and values.
3. Get rid of all bitterness, rage, and anger, outcry, and slander, along with every form of malice. Be kind and tender-hearted to one another, forgiving each other just as in Christ God forgave you. Ephesians 4:31-32. WE are God’s special possessions; therefore, the unconditional love that is freely given to us, in turn, we provide that unconditional love to others as reflected in our interpersonal relationships and without exclusivity.
4. But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. Against such things, there is no law.…Galatians 5:22-23. As a chosen people, the character traits that are acceptable to God are pre-determined by God. Our thoughts, behaviors, and actions are to reflect our love and obedience to God’s holy standards for our lives.
5. The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit; a broken and a contrite heart, O God, You will not despise. Psalm 51:17. The common factor of the royal priesthood is not pride, we are bound to God and to one another through humility and brokenness.
6. If you need wisdom, ask our generous God, and he will give it to you. He will not rebuke you for the asking. James 1:5. Because we are part of a holy nation, we do not live our lives according to whims, nor seek after pleasurable desires. Our lives are not chaotic or based on unhealthy and unproductive choices because we serve a loving God who gives us wisdom if we only pray and ask for it.

Amidst the temptations of life, still, we must strive every day to live for God. Validate your royal status through daily prayer and study of the Bible, speak into existence, “I belong to God.” Praise God that we do not have to relinquish our titles to have God’s peace, love, and joy. Continue to walk in the light, in a little while, we will receive our heavenly crowns from the King of Kings and the Lord of Lords.

© Sonya Johnson Ruiz 2020

You will hear of wars and rumors of wars. See that you are not troubled; for all these things must come to pass, but the end is not yet. For nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom. And there will be famines, pestilences, and earthquakes in various places. All these are the beginning of sorrows.–Matthew 24:6-8

When I graduated from nursing school, I was recommended by our Director for a pilot program in the town’s only hospital; two graduate nurses would receive a career offer in the Neonatal Intensive Care Nursery- NICU. The plan was developed to provide entry into a specialized area of nursing that was closed to nurses without years of experience. For those who have been in the health profession, since yesteryears are aware that the legal liabilities and ethical dilemmas that could arise from such a venture placed the program into a high-risk category.

Nevertheless, the hospital’s legal team and executive board, including tenured nursing administration, developed a fail-proof program that was approved by the NY State Education Department, which regulates the practice of the nursing profession. Criteria to remain in the mentoring program were stringent:

1. All nursing care would be rendered under the guidance of a nurse-proctor.
2. Within two months, the candidate would successfully pass the State Registered Professional Nurse licensure exam.
3. A weekly evaluation reflecting the professional growth of nursing knowledge, judgment, critical-thinking skills, and observational skills along with excellent clinical practice.

Although the program was highly successful, a factor arose that was not considered by the team of experts or the Board of Nursing: The human heart of a newbie nurse! The acuity level of a newborn infant in the NICU is often hanging between the balances of life and death. Indeed, these are not infants who are born healthy and thriving. These are the infants who have arrived with emergent needs who, despite the best efforts, may fail to respond to even the most advanced medical treatment and nursing interventions.

For the hospital, I was a $20,000 investment–excluding my salary. I desperately tried to focus on the infant population that thrived, leading to their hospital discharge. Even so, I could not reach the comfort level to cope with the many infants who failed to respond. My heart was grieved, but I realized that I could not fight with death daily and maintain a positive outlook for my future nursing career.

For in the days before the flood, people were eating and drinking, marrying and giving in marriage, up to the day Noah entered the ark; and they knew nothing about what would happen until the flood came and took them all away. That is how it will be at the coming of the Son of Man. Matthew 24: 38-39. 

Unfortunately, most of us are repeating the historical lifestyle choices of our antediluvian predecessors. We have failed to respond to God’s love, grace, and mercies. Biblical prophecies indicate that God’s forbearance and tolerance for humanity’s disobedience are ending.

The global diseases, calamities of nature, social issues, false teachings by false prophets, hatred, and those who possess the mindset of Pharoah have reached epidemic levels. But Pharaoh replied, “Who is the LORD that I should obey His voice and let Israel go? I do not know the LORD, and I will not let Israel go.” Exodus 5:2

The decision is ours, we possess the freedom to respond to God, who has better plans for us, or we can continue to please ourselves. We cannot change the fact that we are created in His image and are loved as only a Heavenly Father can love. The Lord is not slow to fulfill His promise as some understand slowness, but is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish but everyone to come to repentance. 2 Peter 3:9.

God’s promises are being fulfilled. Jesus Christ is soon to return. Look forward to a perfect and Eternal life in the New Heaven and New Earth.

© Sonya Johnson Ruiz 2020