Steps 2 Success with Spiritual Solutions

Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you. 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 NLT

Our lives have changed drastically from the time of the initial diagnosis of the coronavirus in January to the current status of a National Emergency. Within two months, school closures, job layoffs, restricted buying of certain items, curfews, and the temporary closures of many retailers, have impacted our lives as never before.

Even most healthcare providers have been caught off guard by the vast spread of the coronavirus to the level of a pandemic disease. The statistics only represent the diagnosed cases of this infectious disease. It is unfortunate that individuals exist who remain undiagnosed and untreated due to common fears of isolation, job loss, lack of citizenship status, and other reasons. Because we must consider the possibility of this hidden population, and the noncompliant patients, it is a necessity for Federal and State agencies to intervene and implement shutdowns to contain further disease transmission.

Believer Alert: Don’t worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank him for all he has done. Philippians 4:6. Do you believe that God was fully aware of our current status prior to its occurrence?

Now is the time for us to improve our relationship with God by living a faith-based life. Communication with God through prayer and the diligent study of the Bible must dominate the majority of our free moments. Without a strong connection to God, our faith weakens and we give in to worry and fear. God is here and is waiting for us to ask for our necessities and His protection during this world crisis. And this same God who takes care of me will supply all your needs from his glorious riches, which have been given to us in Christ Jesus. Philippians 4:19

When we maintain our connection to God, we possess a tender heart, full of compassion and we fervently pray on behalf of those who are diagnosed with the COVID-19 virus, those who are isolated and unable to perform their normal routines. We must also consider the Healthcare workers, First Responders, those in Law Enforcement, the City and County employees, and the military who continue to deliver care, protect and serve our communities, and our nation.

There are no options for shutting down the acute care facilities, nursing homes, healthcare agencies, medical offices, clinics, fire stations, and law enforcement agencies. Most retailers, supermarkets, post offices, and express delivery companies are open and serving their communities; please remember the employees who face the risk of this disease because they are providing necessary services to the public.

Intercessory prayers should be sent up on a daily basis for the healing of those diagnosed with the coronavirus and for the protection of the men and women who are at risk. Can we count on each other to pray for the resolution of this pandemic disease? This is the confidence we have in approaching God: that if we ask anything according to his will, he hears us. 1 John 5:14

Has God supplied your basic needs? Then it is time to move forward and think of those in need. The seniors, the disabled, and underserved populations may have limited access to water, food, hand sanitizer, and personal toiletries. We can assist with financial donations to churches and other non-profit organizations, including shelters that provide services to the community. Remember annual budgets did not include funding to meet the needs of our current national emergency status.

Some additional guidelines from the CDC:

The CDC-Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has identified those who are at a higher risk of contracting the coronavirus:

• Older Adults
• Persons with serious health conditions such as heart disease, lung disease, and Diabetes

These individuals should take steps such as stocking up on supplies, avoiding crowds and staying home as much as possible. http://www.cdc.gov

Yes, it is necessary during this crisis to take steps to protect ourselves from contracting this airborne virus, including proper handwashing. These precautions do not contradict our faith and trust in God. In fact, we have a godly responsibility to care for our bodies which are the “temples of the Holy Spirit.” Dear friend, I pray that you may enjoy good health and that all may go well with you, even as your soul is getting along well. 3 John 1:2

Stay informed, and Stay close to God.

And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him. Colossians 3:17 NIV

© Sonya Johnson Ruiz RN 2020

https://www.businessinsider.com/cdc-guidelines-cancel-events-50-people-over-due-to-coronavirus-2020-3

Do not be afraid of the terrors of the night, nor the arrow that flies in the day. Do not dread the disease that stalks in darkness, nor the disaster that strikes at midday. Psalm 91:5-6

Yesterday we went to the supermarket to purchase a few replacement items. The parking lot was filled to capacity, with drivers anxiously waiting for any available space just so they could get inside of the store. The only time that have I witnessed so many shoppers in a store was during the Black Friday Sales. We were among the many individuals who were standing in the long lines with at least a 30-minute to 1-hour wait before checkout.

The strained expressions on most of the customer’s faces competed with the emptiness of the section of the store where normally shelves would be stocked with toilet tissue. As we waited in the express line, I overheard the cashier say, ” I don’t understand, this is not the end of the world.” Our turn for checkout came quickly, and I probed for information by asking the young cashier how her day was going. She informed me that all available staff had been called into work to assist with the 2 hour wait time for checkout that existed since 7 am that morning.

The words, “This is not the end of the world” have resonated in my mind over and over again. With the current pandemic of the coronavirus, we must be responsible and practice the necessary health precautions. Even so, we are living in the last days of earth’s history. Now is the time for us to heighten our spiritual awareness and deepen our relationship with God. In order to prepare, we must diligently study the Word of God and pray without ceasing. There will be great earthquakes, and there will be famines and plagues in many lands, and there will be terrifying things and great miraculous signs from heaven. Luke 21:11

Luke 21 warns us of the events that will occur before the Second Coming of Jesus and the end of the world. Moving forward, this is the time to face the fact that something serious is happening, and we need to decide if we will serve God and live by faith.

Only by knowing God here can we prepare to meet Him at His coming…But many of those who profess to believe in Christ do not know God. They have only a surface religion. They do not love God; they do not study His character; therefore, they do not know how to trust, how to look and live. They do not know what restful love is or what it means to walk by faith…Ellen G. White (1903)

But thanks be to God! He gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ. 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 15:57-58

We must prepare spiritually for troublesome times because trials and tribulations will increase. Remember, God is here, and He has always been and always will be in control of this world. Don’t be afraid, for I am with you. Don’t be discouraged, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you. I will hold you up with my victorious right hand. Isaiah 41:10

For in it the righteousness of God is revealed from faith to faith; as it is written, “The just shall live by faith.” Romans 1:17

© Sonya Johnson Ruiz 2020

 

 

…Do not be afraid… Deuteronomy 31:8

Sonya Johnson Ruiz

So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand. Isaiah 41:10

As a Registered Nurse, we learned that proper handwashing breaks the chain of disease transmission. Hand sanitizer is to be utilized as a secondary resource for cleaning hands.

Use paper towels as a barrier when opening doors and turning on/off faucets when in public. Take the hand sanitizer with you along with folded paper towels.

I just read a blog post from a man who worked with abnormal Upper Respiratory symptoms and didn’t seek medical treatment until he had severe chest congestion. He had a runny nose for 4 days, which is not normal. And yes, he tested positive for the Coronavirus. Please seek immediate medical treatment for any flu-like symptoms.

The Immune System requires adequate nutrition to function. Eat healthy…plenty of fruits and vegetables.

Cook your own food…fast food has little to no nutrients. If you can eat a plant-based diet with fresh fruits and veggies, nuts, and legumes, it boosts the ability of the body to fight off or to contend with diseases. Ditch the dairy products. Forget about sugary, high-fat, and high caloric foods. If ice cream is your weakness, buy your favorite fresh fruit and So Delicious Non-dairy whip, chop the fruit and freeze, or purchase frozen fruit, blend together with the non-dairy whip, freeze until firm but not rock solid, and blend again. Use light Agave Nectar if you need a sweetener.

We can also do our part in self-care by seeking the facts from professional sources. Many unqualified people are posting their opinions on the internet.

cdc.gov is the link that gives up-to-date statistics and information on every disease.

Stay healthy…by praying, trusting in God, and doing your part to take care of your body, which is the temple of the Holy Spirit…fear and anxiety harm the Mind/Body and diminish our faith and trust in God.

God hears and always answers our prayers. Stay in His presence by praying without ceasing.

© Sonya Johnson Ruiz RN 2020

Trust in the LORD with all your heart; do not depend on your own understanding. Seek his will in all you do, and he will show you which path to take. Proverbs 3:5-6

WE are currently experiencing a pandemic from a virus that cannot be contained or treated with antibiotics. There is a state of frenzy and panic not only from the mortality levels of this disease but also from the realization of the helplessness of humanity. Even the most brilliant scientists and physicians must admit their limitations as they can only advise on preventive measures for containment.

As a Registered Nurse, I considered providing links to professional articles on boosting your immune system. After reading several articles, it was challenging to find just one that incorporated the spiritual aspect of caring for one’s health. To possess peace in times of adversity may seem impossible. Still, the effect that fear, worry, and anxiety have on the mind and body is one of slow destruction and poses a severe threat to the individual and to our societies. “Anxiety disorders are a major worldwide health problem with sizeable psychological, social, and economic costs” (Beddington et al., 2008).

We are unable to purchase items that will alleviate the disturbance of an unsettled mind. Peace of mind is not achieved by burning candles in a dimly lit room, nor can confidence come from praying to or believing in inanimate objects. True Peace is a gift and only available through God. The most significant change that I can recommend is to rely on God in every aspect of your life.

Believing in God’s promises allows us to exercise our faith and to focus on His power. Faith causes us to see through blind eyes and realize the impossible is only possible through God’s Divine intervention. When we admit our dependence on God, He takes our fragile weaknesses and provides us with a mind free of all anxieties. You keep him in perfect peace whose mind is stayed on you because he trusts in you. Trust in the LORD forever, for the LORD GOD is an everlasting rock. Isaiah 26:3-4.

At any point, we can reach out and establish a relationship with God. Believing in God is a simple action. Our Heavenly Father is not complex or complicated. We have been given a measure of faith that produces an innate desire to seek a spiritual connection with God. Many individuals realize that there is a higher power than themselves, but their attention is diverted by the tangible things that can be seen or touched. But a time is coming and has now come when the true worshipers will worship the Father in spirit and in truth, for the Father is seeking such as these to worship Him. God is Spirit, and His worshipers must worship Him in spirit and in truth. John 4:24

1. Acknowledging and believing that God the Father, God the Son, and God the Holy Spirit exists is the first step to forming a relationship.
2. Salvation is ours just by repenting of our sins and accepting Christ’s death for the redemption of sin, which gives us the right to Eternal life.
3. We must live a faith-based and righteous life by giving up worldly pleasures and harmful habits. There is a way that appears to be right, but in the end, it leads to death. Proverbs 14:12

Reflecting on your lifestyle and the choices that you have made do not compare to the promises that God has for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and take you to be with me that you also may be where I am. John 14:3

We have the faith that it takes to trust in God. How far can we get in life through self-reliance? At some point, we become troubled from within and realize that we are powerless. Surely, there has to be another way. And it is another way, living by entirely relying on God. Peace I leave with you; My peace I give to you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled; do not be afraid. John 14:27

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

Prayer: LORD God, we are at a time in our lives that we realize our limitations as human beings. We admit that we are fearful, anxious, and worried. We ask you to forgive us for our sins and to give us peace. We pray for protection from disease, but we also pray that we will learn to trust your will and your way for our lives. In Jesus’ name, we ask this prayer. Amen.

© Sonya Johnson Ruiz 2020

 

 

 

“Have I not commanded you to be strong and courageous? Do not be afraid or discouraged, for the LORD, your God is with you wherever you go.” Joshua 1:9

World Health Organization declares that Coronavirus is now a Pandemic

Amid the pandemic spread of the Coronavirus is a wave of rampant fear. We must face the fact that many Believers are just as fearful as those who do not believe in God. Do you really know who God is?

And God said to Moses, “I am Yahweh–the Lord. I appeared to Abraham, to Isaac, and to Jacob as El-Shaddai–God Almighty…Therefore, say to the people of Israel: I am the Lord. I will free you from your oppression and will rescue you from your slavery in Egypt. I will redeem you with a powerful arm and great acts of judgment. I will claim you as my own people, and I will be your God, then you will know that I am the Lord your God who has freed you from your oppression in Egypt. Exodus 6:2-3, 6-7

In Exodus chapters 8-11, we read of the plagues that God inflicted on the Egyptians because Pharoah refused to free the enslaved Israelites. Even after the death of the firstborn son and the firstborn male animal in the land of Egypt, including Pharoah’s son, he changed his mind after freeing the Nation of Israel. …” What have we done, letting all those Israelite slaves get away?” they asked. Exodus 14:5.

God intentionally led Moses and the people through the wilderness where the Red Sea presented as the impossible watery obstacle that caused the faithless Israelites to regret their freedom and blame Moses for leading them to their death. But it was the “I AM” who placed them in front of the sea to reveal that He is the Power and the Glory.

Pharoah, full of wicked arrogance, chose his best chariots, and commanders to chase after the people of Israel. As Pharoah approached, the people of Israel looked up and panicked when they saw the Egyptians overtaking them. They cried out to the Lord, and they said to Moses, “Why did you bring us out here to die in the wilderness?… Exodus 14:10. As foolish as this seems, many of us are in the same spiritual predicament as the Israelites. Despite the miracles and blessings that God has showered down upon our lives, many Believers are still afraid of the current viral epidemic. Read Exodus 14:15-31.

Our knowledge of God must extend far beyond just believing that God exists. We must establish a covenant relationship between ourselves and El-Shaddai–God Almighty. The measure of faith that all have received is unable to grow without doing what is necessary to establish a strong bond with God. Our relationship remains superficial, and our spiritual growth is stunted when we possess an unread Bible that collects dust on the shelf. The Holy Scriptures were gifted to us to reveal who God really is: Loving, Compassionate, full of Grace and Mercy, Powerful, a Provider, Savior, Redeemer, All-knowing, the Beginning, and the End.

Prayer is the only viable source of communication with God. Through prayer, we receive the Holy Spirit, our Comforter, Instructor, and our Protector, who always reveals the will of God. I will answer them before they even call to me. While they are still talking about their needs, I will go ahead and answer their prayers! Isaiah 65:24. The Holy Spirit is able to readily communicate with us by revealing God’s plan when we pray. Have you ever prayed with a confused mind and a spirit of unrest, and following your prayer, you felt peaceful, and the unknown answer was revealed, as you wondered where are these thoughts originating from?

But the Advocate, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in My name, will teach you all things and will remind you of everything I have told you. Peace I leave with you; My peace I give to you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled; do not be afraid. John 14:26-27

Dear friend, I hope all is well with you and that you are as healthy in body as you are strong in spirit. 3 John 1:2. We must take the necessary precautions to sustain a healthy mind and body during this pandemic. Even so, let go of all fear and discontent; fear destroys the mind and our faith and trust in God. So you have not received a spirit that makes you fearful slaves. Instead, you received God’s Spirit when he adopted you as his own children. Now we call him, “Abba, Father.” Romans 8:15

Certainly, it is not our desire to contract this virus; our best defense is to learn who God is by praying and trusting in His power. Pray for protection over your life, and pray an intercessory prayer for the protection of others. Faithfully trusting and believing that God will hear and answer our prayers should leave us with comfort and peace. Remember, He is the Almighty. When we do our part, all fear will leave our minds, and we will have the same confidence in El-Shaddai that the young Hebrew men had when they were facing the fiery furnace.

“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

Oh friend, do you know Him?

Preparing for Eternal life.

© Sonya Johnson Ruiz 2020

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