Amazing Facts Daily Devotional

Excerpt from Things New and Old Part #10
This is life eternal,’ Christ said, ‘that they might know Thee the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom Thou hast sent.’ John 17:3.

Further thought: Why is it that we do not realize the value of this knowledge? Why are not these glorious truths glowing in our hearts, trembling upon our lips, and pervading our whole being?

I was unable to answer the above thought-provoking questions. At least, I have become more aware of Christ’s purpose for my life.

Sonya Johnson Ruiz

Follow God’s Plan for your Life

Meet Me in the Meadow by Roy Lessin

Even Though

Take His hand, even though it means letting go of what you are holding on to.

Please His heart, even though it may not please others.

Wait for His time, even though your desire is to get it done now.

Obey His Word, even though you hear something different that is popular.

Follow His path, even though you see a valley ahead.

Trust His wisdom, even though you want to do it differently.

Give Him praise, even though you are going through something unpleasant.

Be at rest, even though you have every reason to worry or fear.

Many plans are in a man’s heart, But the counsel of the LORD will stand. Proverbs 19:21 NASB

If you have ever been in the valley of decision and felt uncertain, God has allowed for you to arrive at this crossroads in your life, so you can turn to Him.

Dear God when I am feeling desperate and uncertain, help me to redirect my focus to you. I know that you will quiet the storm in my life. Amen.

Sonya Johnson Ruiz

“Living the Dream”

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? John 14:2 NLT

I was recently at an estate sale and overheard a conversation that began with “How are you?” In response, the person stated in an upbeat manner, “Living the dream.” It was as if time had stopped. We waited for further clarification of the dream; was it an abundance of money, a great job, good health? However, he never said another word as all eyes watched this stranger jubilantly walk away.

Living the dream is a subjective state of mind. No two individuals will replicate the meaning of what the dream is to them. My interpretation of living the dream may be tied to significant interaction with my family, enough money to pay the bills, the enjoyment of being retired, or experiencing a pain-free day.

From a spiritual perspective, Eternal Life should be our dream and every thought and action should reflect this desire. Even though we are told in John 14 and Revelation 21 that Christ is preparing a new home for us, many have lost hope in this promise. We are putting most of our time and energy in the pursuit of secular dreams–tangible things that will eventually be destroyed. Do we really understand God’s promise of “a new heaven and a new earth?” If yes, then we live for God and strive for Eternal life, which is through sanctification, wholly committing ourselves daily to God.

The thought-provoking statement of “living the dream” has me seriously thinking about the changes I need to make in my spiritual journey. Unlike working to obtain “the dream” from a worldly perspective, I am unable to do good works to receive Eternal Life. It was not a coincidence that I heard the stranger’s response. There are changes that I need to make in my life if I desire to hear Jesus say, “Well done.” Thank you, God, for getting my attention-my commitment to you needs major improvement.

© Sonya Johnson Ruiz 2020

Romans 12

Practical Messages for Impractical Times

We often think of ourselves as embracing diversity based on obvious characteristics; ethnicity, religious beliefs, culture, etc. However, are you really able to love those who express different opinions or subscribe to alternate morals or value systems? What about the individuals whose life experience surpasses your own? All of these scenarios invite the opportunity for conflict due to the opposition to our own beliefs.

Romans 12: 9-21 presents God’s instructions for embracing diversity. “Don’t just pretend to love others…”

Dear God, I am guilty of pretense. I have not embraced diversity according to your standards. I confess my sins and ask forgiveness. In Jesus’ name, I pray. Amen

Sonya Johnson Ruiz

God’s Original Plan

Have you ever looked at a beautiful picture which relects nature and wished you could live there?

When God created the earth, He did not intend for us to live in a cramped city environment. Our bodies were created to be in motion, and consume a plant based diet. Because we have not followed His plan, we suffer with many diseases of the mind and body.

When is the last time you heard the birds sing or enjoy a refreshing gentle breeze? When have your children or grandchildren been able to run on grass, pick flowers, or enjoy a camping trip?

It’s never too late for change. Many questions may come to your mind mostly involving finances. If pure country living is part of God’s original plan, won’t He provide for you to make the transition? I am praying for Divine Intervention for all of us. I prefer the melodious singing of birds as opposed to the sound of screeching police sirens.

Dear God, please give us the desire to live as you intended for us to live. Amen

Sonya Johnson Ruiz