Bible – Page 3 – Steps 2 Success with Spiritual Solutions

Do the Circumstances Demand a Goodbye?

Practical Solutions for Impractical Times – Devotional – November 17, 2025

“Do not be yoked together with unbelievers. For what do righteousness and wickedness have in common? Or what fellowship can light have with darkness? What harmony is there between Christ and Belial [the devil]? Or what does a believer have in common with an unbeliever?” (2 Corinthians 6:14-15, NIV).

My siblings and I were raised by Christian parents who obeyed God’s command “to separate ourselves from unbelievers.” Our friends were the children of Christian parents who also had a relationship with our parents. And yes, we attended Christian schools, where we were taught Biblical Principles, with emphasis on loving and obeying God.

“Not everyone who says to Me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ will enter the kingdom of heaven, but only he who does the will of My Father in heaven.” (Mathew 7:21).

Disobedience always demands payment! Sadly, as I matured, although I attended church, I did not continue to practice the godly principles that our parents, schools, and church taught us. I formed relationships with unbelievers, and gradually, I transitioned from striving to live righteously to living a compromised life of sin.

“Or do you not know that the unrighteous will not inherit the kingdom of God?”(1 Corinthians 6:9). “Therefore, come out from among unbelievers, and separate yourselves from them, says the LORD. Don’t touch their filthy things, and I will welcome you.” (2 Corinthians 6:17, NLT).

From Genesis to Revelation, God repeatedly commands us to separate ourselves from unbelievers, which includes romantic liaisons and socializing with family members and coworkers who have not accepted Christ as their personal Savior.

“…The LORD doesn’t see things the way you see them. People judge by outward appearance, but the LORD looks at the heart.” (1 Samuel 16:7, NLT).

Because we are living in the Last Days, many Christians feel lonely and often meet individuals [Satan’s temptation] who appear to be believers. The initial conversation captures their interest, and yes, they may attend church, [which is not an indicator of love and loyalty to God], so we assume the person is God-sent.

Satan’s schemes include placing people in our path who appear righteous, often verbalizing that God is good, but the Apostle Paul says, they are pretenders “having a form of godliness but denying its power.” (2 Timothy 3:5).

Without praying and asking God to reveal whether or not He sent the person, the only other choice is to follow our emotions. If we exchange numbers and quickly begin a relationship with an unbeliever who has no real relationship with Jesus Christ, then time will reveal their true nature. From excluding God, either we choose a life of compromise, or end up suffering from a broken heart.

Satan’s Playground: There is no need to elaborate on the Online Chat and Dating sites because a Holy and Righteous God would never condescend Himself to bless sites where sin is masked behind fake characters that are easily masterminded to deceive others.

Never Place the Familiar Over the Divine!

Satan knows the believers who worship God with dedication and obedience are usually tough as nails in their love and loyalty to God, so he uses another covert strategy, “the path of least resistance.” The roaring lion uses his strongest tactic: Satan uses our family members to entice us.

The Invitation: Yes, our unbelieving family members know we are Christians, but they cannot think on a spiritual level. The invite to the baby shower, birthday party, or a night out is genuine because it has been a long time since they have seen us. Without praying for Divine guidance, even the strongest Christian is subject to embracing temptations when family ties are part of the temptation.

The Compromise: You said yes, and it was wonderful being around your family. Yes, they served alcoholic drinks, and profanities filled the atmosphere, but we justify their behaviors because that is their lifestyle.

The Fall: We are excited; it feels good to be around our family. As we leave, with hugs and smiles, we decide to interact with our relatives by attending future get-togethers.

Satan Wins: Inclusion boosts our self-worth, so we tell ourselves, I need to be more involved with my family, and at that moment, our life of compromise begins. We follow our thoughts in every aspect of our lives instead of praying for Divine Wisdom.

The Spiritual Decline of Disobedience: When a believer forms relationships with unbelievers, the believer has denied loyalty to Christ by choosing wilful disobedience to God’s command to separate ourselves from those who are walking in spiritual darkness.

“Do not be deceived: ‘Bad company ruins good morals.’ ” (1 Corinthians 15:33, ESV). Disobedience to God is the spiritual indicator that the believer’s heart has already changed. The decision to compromise and socialize with “bad company,” without repentance, places the believer on equal ground with the unbeliever—from a spiritual perspective, the believer is also lost.

“He who conceals his sins will not prosper, but whoever confesses and renounces them will find mercy.” (Proverbs 28:13). Compromise requires that we begin a life of pretense, appearing godly to others, but God knows our hearts.

“The Narrow and Wide Gates: “Enter through the narrow gate. For wide is the gate and broad is the road that leads to destruction, and many enter through it. But small is the gate and narrow the road that leads to life, and only a few find it.” (Matthew 7:13-14, NIV).

Leaving the Path of Righteousness begins with the one disobedient choice that places us on the detour exit leading to the Path of Disobedience. Satan is happy; he feels that he has taken another believer away from Christ.

Disobedience is a Catalyst for a Domino Effect: From disobeying one of God’s Commands, we lose our spiritual connection to Christ, which predisposes us to committing multiple sins against God.

Satan continues to tempt us in other areas because distractions keep our focus on ourselves, which is required to keep us traveling on the Broad Road. Sin not only separates us from God, but it also impairs our judgment and desensitizes us to the point that we can no longer discern truth from error.

Christ Knocks On the Door of Our Hearts: Our Loving Shepherd attempts to bring His lost sheep back into His arms. The Holy Spirit begins speaking to our conscience, so we can never say that we didn’t know that we were living outside of the will of God.

Because we were created with the free will of choice, God will never coerce us to return to His safety. There is no middle road. Either we will continue in our rebellion against God, or, like the prodigal son, come to our senses and repent.

We Are the Generation of Believers Living In the Last Days: “…In the last times there will be scoffers who will follow their own ungodly desires. These are the people who divide you, who follow mere natural instincts and do not have the Spirit.” (Jude 1:18-19, NIV).

Satan does not care about the unrighteous or half-committed Christians; they are already serving him. Since Lucifer was cast out of Heaven, now known as Satan, he is in a spiritual battle with Jesus Christ, vying for the souls of believers who are striving to faithfully follow Christ.

Yes, that is you and me! Our enemy’s goal is to manipulate the righteous heirs of Christ into abandoning God by tempting us to engage in spiritually incompatible relationships. And many have fallen into his trap, exchanging their Crown of Life for short-lived pleasure.

God’s Character and Ways remain the same. Nowhere in the Bible do we find where a stranger suddenly enters someone’s life and they become romantically involved with each other.

God Requires That We Put Him First: To receive his promise, God instructed Abram to leave his family and relocate to the land that He promised him.

When Our Relationships Lead to Either Choosing Them or God, Then the Circumstances Demand An Immediate Goodbye!

Reflect on your relationships; if they do not lead you closer to God, then the people you have given access to your life are pulling you away from God. Let them go!

If you are thinking it’s too late, I have been in this relationship for a long time. Unless you are married, you have already crossed the line of living a pure and holy life. Living together or engaging in sexual immorality indicates you have chosen to relinquish your reward of Eternal Life [Revelation 22:15].

If children are involved, they must be taken care of emotionally and financially. Pray for God’s guidance. He has the answers to all of our dilemmas. But we cannot continue to live in sin and be saved.

The Road to Restoration: What does God require of us? Our Father is Love! “If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.’ (1 John 1:9).

Pray and repent, asking God to forgive you for the sins against Him. Establish a New Covenant with Christ by ceasing all relationships that do not honor God, whether romantic or with unbelieving family and friends.

“Let us then approach God’s Throne of Grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need.” (Hebrews 14:6, NIV).

Establish a time for morning and evening worship. We must honor God with Faithful Obedience, which is our highest worship. Pray and ask God to direct you in all of your decision-making, including future relationships.

The Road to Restoration Also Requires Spiritual and Emotional Healing: God knows that letting go of relationships causes deep heart wounds. We may feel as if our breath has ceased to exist. Expressing our sorrow is healthy as long as we are not embracing anger or bitterness.

New Beginnings require a lot of prayer. We can ask our Loving Savior a thousand times a day for comfort and strength. Christ experienced immense grief and sorrow at a level that no human could tolerate, and live.

Establish a time for morning and evening worship. Begin to study the Bible: Genesis 1-3; Psalm 23; John 14:1-3; 1 Corinthians 13; Romans 12; and Revelation 21-22 are good for starters.

Listen to Christian music that honors God. David tells us to praise God with our voice. Praise God with singing; Inspirational music reaches deep into the depths of our souls, soothing our emotional pain.

“Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord and in the power of His might. Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the wiles [schemes] of the devil.” (Ephesians 6:10-11).

Today’s believers face many challenges in our Christian Journey, but living righteously should not be one of our hardships. Through prayer, we have 24/7 unlimited access to Jesus Christ, our Heavenly Intercessor and Triumphant King, who promises to heal our broken hearts and strengthen us in times of weakness.

Keep Your Eyes Focused on Christ: Our Primary Goal Is To Experience the Daily Spiritual Growth and Transformation Required to Receive Our Reward of Eternal Life

Our relationship with Christ is a priority! We are the generation of believers who are living in the Last Days described in 2 Timothy 3. Considering the current conditions, we do not have time to waste being involved in meaningless relationships. There is an old spiritual song that says, “If you don’t want to go [to heaven], don’t hinder me.”

The King is Coming Sooner Than We Think: “Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship.” (Romans 12:1, NIV).

Lord God, we love You and desire to renew our covenant vow to worship You with faith, loyalty, and obedience. We ask the Holy Spirit to reveal all relationships in our lives that do not honor and glorify You. Lord, we ask for the strength to persevere through this journey of life as we prepare for eternity. We ask this prayer in faith and in the Righteous Name of Jesus Christ, Amen.

Created With the Free Will to Choose Christ

“And the Lord God commanded the man, saying, ‘Of every tree of the garden you may freely eat; but of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil you shall not eat, for in the day that you eat of it you shall surely die.” (Genesis 2:16-17).

A few years ago, I watched a YouTube documentary on adopting a sustainable, zero-waste lifestyle. The Japanese professor shared her amazing story of changing her lifestyle, which included relocating to a rural setting and strictly practicing the concept of “Need Over Greed.”

Although the professor said she was not religious, she verbalized that her entire psyche changed, and she felt peace within. Because of her commitment to making positive lifestyle changes, including healthy boundaries, she indicated that she was caring for her mind and body with love and respect.

Yes, every living creature has basic physiological and psychological needs that must be fulfilled; if not, healthy growth and development cannot occur. Yet that is not our dilemma; many believers have excessive tangible goods and wealth beyond their basic needs, yet we still desire more.

Need Over Greed Is a Spiritual Concept

“Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy and where thieves break in and steal; but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” (Matthew 6:19-20).

Jesus is not teaching us the world’s concept of frugal living—Minimalism, which does not promote obedience to God, or give the principles to transform one’s character into the Righteousness of Christ.

“For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” (Matthew 6:21).

Jesus is teaching us to have our priorities straight, so we can actively participate in the transformation of our characters, minds, and personalities required to receive our reward of Eternal Life. It is impossible to pursue wealth and success and actively participate in the journey of spiritual growth and transformation.

The Current Plight of Christianity: We are too distracted by our desires to have the daily personal worship that keeps us anchored in Christ. Prayer and Bible Study invite the Holy Spirit to give us clarity, wisdom, discernment, and Jesus’ strength to fight against our internal desires.

“Trust in the Lord with all your heart, And lean not on your own understanding; In all your ways acknowledge Him, And He shall direct your paths.” (Proverbs 3:5-6).

Without setting aside daily time for personal worship, not only are we excluding ourselves from the presence of God, but we are also living a life of self-direction.

King David’s Prayer: “Search me, O God, and know my heart: try me, and know my thoughts: And see if there be any wicked way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting.” (Psalm 139:23-24, KJV). David admitted that we cannot judge ourselves; therefore, he continually asked God to search his heart.

Redirecting Our Faith and Focus to God: Every day, we have the opportunity to communicate with God in prayer to learn His perfect will for that day, obey, fulfill His plans, and receive the Divine wisdom, discernment, and strength to overcome our desires.

“There is a way that seems right to a man, but its end is the way to death.” (Proverbs 14:12, ESV). Without a heart-to-heart connection with Christ, we instinctively rely on our human wisdom, which never aligns with God’s Divine Will and Plans.

“Do not be wise in your own eyes.” (Proverbs 3:7). Not having Scriptural knowledge and the desire to obey God redirects our faith and focus from God to ourselves. From thinking our own thoughts, our lifestyle of self-gratification reveals that we are living in opposition to God’s Righteous Principles.

“And he said to them, ‘Take care, and be on your guard against all covetousness, for one’s life does not consist in the abundance of his possessions.'” (Luke 12:15, ESV).

God is not surprised that we have not obeyed His command to deny ourselves. Every human heart is driven to please self, which we cannot overcome without the Divine strength of Jesus Christ.

The Onset Begins After Birth: “Babies are naturally self-centered during early development, a stage often beginning around 18 months when they develop a sense of self and possessiveness.”

As we mature through the lifespan, the joy of self-gratification is reinforced through learned behavior, the media, and the assimilation of a materialistic mindset.

For a short time, we are happy, but happiness based on materialism is short-lived, so we must continue to participate in the cycle to maintain our contentment through the acquisition of wealth and possessions.

God’s Command: “Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—His good, pleasing, and perfect will. (Romans 12:2, NIV).

The Scriptures should not be viewed as unyielding restraints. God is a Loving and Protective Heavenly Father who has given us the Spiritual Boundaries [in the Bible] to keep us on the Path of Righteousness.

Chapter 2

Although the Apostle Paul [who was anointed by the Holy Spirit to write most of the New Testament] was a very spiritual and dedicated Christian man of God, he also experienced the battle within: “For I know that good itself does not dwell in me, that is, in my sinful nature. For I have the desire to do what is good, but I cannot carry it out.” (Romans 7:18, NIV).

We were not created to fight the good fight of faith alone. God’s perception of time is Eternal. God knew that in 2025, we would be inundated by the concept of “Pursue Your Desires, More Reveals Power and Prosperity.” The temptations of material acquisition appear overwhelming, but still, we were not created to be helpless.

“For God did not give us a spirit of timidity or cowardice or fear, but [He has given us a spirit] of power and of love and of sound judgment and personal discipline [abilities that result in a calm, well-balanced mind and self-control].” (2 Timothy 1:7, Amplified Bible).

The Christian Journey will always include the struggles of internal conflict that arise from the inheritance of a self-gratifying heart, and the external opposition of Satan’s personalized schemes and temptations.

But through the sacrificial offering of Jesus, the Lamb of God’s life, we are freed from the bondage of an insatiable, greedy heart. Divine Help is always a prayer away.

“No temptation has overtaken you except such as is common to man; but God is faithful, who will not allow you to be tempted beyond what you are able, but with the temptation will also make the way of escape, that you may be able to bear it.” (1 Corinthians 10:13).

We have all of Heaven—The Triune God [God, the Father, God, Jesus, the Son, and God, the Holy Spirit], along with a countless number of angelic armies who are dedicated to protecting us from spiritual warfare, physical harm, scams, identity theft, and the rest of Satan’s schemes. Yet God’s promises and protection are conditional, and receiving His blessings depends on our willingness to obey our Heavenly Father.

Brothers and Sisters, consider the unbelieving Japanese professor who used discipline and self-control to change her life. Something is not right when unbelievers can successfully use their strength to exercise restraint, and we who accepted Christ as our personal Savior, who promises to give us Divine Help available 24/7, so easily give in to our desires.

Chapter 3

The Sacrificial Life Is the Only Way to Obey God’s Good, Pleasing, and Perfect Will

“Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship. Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.” (Romans 12:1-2, NIV)

By choosing to love God, we instinctively desire to obey Him. Personal worship expresses our gratitude to God, our Father, for His Love and the gift of His Only Son, Jesus Christ.

Our morning worship begins with the commitment to living a holy and acceptable life of self-denial. We surrender to God because He deserves our loyalty and faithful obedience; therefore, we use the discipline of self-control to renounce our desires.

“The name of the LORD is a strong tower; The righteous run to it and are safe.” (Proverbs 18:10). Yes, we approach God in prayer for help to resist temptation, still there are times when we give in to our weaknesses. Our Father is still gracious. Through prayer, we have total access to ask for His Divine Help and forgiveness.

God’s love and mercy are always extended when we repent. Thankfully, our Heavenly Father never changes. Not only does Christ promise to never leave or forsake us, He tells us to move forward and continue to fight against our internal desires and external temptations using His strength: “My strength is made perfect in your weakness.”

From engaging in consistent Bible Study, we learn God’s Loving Character and His history of intervening when the righteous run to Him for help, which strengthens our faith. We can never pray too much. Continuous Prayer connects us to Christ, who gives us His Spiritual strength to live day by day as Victorious Overcomers!

God knows that we cannot fight this Spiritual War alone! Heaven responds immediately to our cries for help. Still, we must put forth the human effort to choose to use our spiritual gifts of power and self-control to courageously renounce our desires by remaining steadfast to the conviction, “I will not sin against God!”

Throughout the Bible, we have examples of dedicated worshipers who did not sin against God. Their lifestyle reveals the habit of consistent communication with God. Daniel prayed three times a day, and for his faithfulness, he was chosen to receive prophetic visions of the future, which he did not understand.

“And he said to me, ‘O Daniel, man greatly beloved, understand the words that I speak to you, and stand upright, for I have now been sent to you.’ While he was speaking this word to me, I stood trembling.” (Daniel 10:11).

Because of Daniel’s love, faith, and loyalty, Jesus Christ, the Commander of Angel Armies, sent the angel Gabriel to give Daniel the interpretation of his visions. Yes, Daniel admits he was terrified, but Gabriel’s words, “Daniel, man greatly beloved…” were a message directly from Christ.

When we choose to live a sacrificial life, determined to faithfully obey God, dedicating ourselves to a life of prayer is easily accomplished. Prayer is our Spiritual Lifeline to Christ, our Heavenly Intercessor; there is no other way for us to receive spiritual nourishment and strength.

Prayer and studying the Holy Scriptures not only keep us anchored in Christ, but we also recognize our identity as royal heirs who will inherit our Eternal Crown of Life, which consistently reminds us of who our allegiance is to.

Sanctification is the gradual [daily] spiritual process of growth and transformation required for every believer to, yet character transformation depends on our willingness to obey God.

If we are participating with the Holy Spirit, then we will begin to notice changes in our behaviors. Not only do we stop desiring the things we used to pursue, but we also receive wisdom and the discernment to perceive life through the eyes of Christ.

“You will be blessed if you obey the commands of the LORD your God that I am giving you today.” (Deuteronomy 11:27, NLT).”

The Nation of Israel struggled to obey God because they were mesmerized by the practices of pagan worship. If we expect to be blessed, which includes receiving our Crown of Life, we must cease pursuing our desires.

“For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” (Matthew 6:21).

The continuous challenge for every believer is to remain loyal to God by staying connected to Christ; only then can we win the battle of Obedience versus Disobedience to God. Without surrendering ourselves in faith and humility to God, we are driven by our internal desires that we cannot control.

How do we win? We choose to have a “God First” mindset that only comes from loving the Lord, our God, with all of our heart, soul, mind, and strength. A spirit of humility invites the Holy Spirit to empower us with the Divine Strength to overcome and win the battles within and externally.

“But God proves His love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.” (Romans 5:8). All of Heaven is dedicated to helping us overcome our innate character traits of a selfish heart. Preparing for Eternal Life One Day At a Time.

Lord God, we desperately need Your help. You know our hearts and the consequences of embracing and pursuing greed. Lord, we confess that we have followed our hearts instead of obeying Your command to not seek earthly treasures, and for this sin, we ask for forgiveness. We ask You for guidance and strength. Teach us how to hear Your Voice speaking to us instead of following our wayward thoughts leading to self-gratification. We look forward to the day when Your Son, Jesus, and our Triumphant King will come again. We ask this prayer in the Holy Name of Jesus Christ, Amen.

Relaxing Hymns: Peaceful Instrumental Music

The Name of the Lord Is a Strong Tower: Replacing Self-Reliance With Total Dependency On 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, NLT).

When facing challenges, the immediate response of praying reveals that our faith and trust is in the Sovereign Power of God. ‘The name of the LORD is a strong tower; The righteous run to it and are safe.’ ” (Proverbs 18:10).

Approaching the Throne of Grace not only reveals our willingness to surrender to God in total dependency, but demonstrates our cooperation with the Holy Spirit to actively participate in our journey of daily spiritual growth and transformation.

“But why do you call Me ‘Lord, Lord,’ and not do the things which I say?” (Luke 6:46).

If our challenges produce the immediate emotional response of “What am I going to do?” then God has revealed that our faith is redirected from God to ourselves.

“Do not be wise in your own eyes.” (Proverbs 3:7).

“This is what the LORD says: ‘Cursed is the person who trusts humans, who makes flesh and blood his strength and whose heart turns away from the LORD.’ ” (Jeremiah 17:5, GWT).

Trusting in human knowledge to resolve our problems also reveals that we are practicing self-reliance, which spiritually disconnects us from God.

As an employer expects employees to learn and adhere to the company’s policies and procedures, God also requires us to live by His Righteous Principles and Commandments found in His word, the Holy Scriptures.

“Trust in the Lord with all your heart, And lean not on your own understanding; In all your ways acknowledge Him, And He shall direct your paths. Do not be wise in your own eyes; Fear the Lord and depart from evil. (Proverbs 3:5-7).

The decision to use our faith to trust and obey God by totally relying on Him to direct our steps is the commitment that will be rewarded with a Crown of Life when Jesus comes again.

Lord God, we thank You for being a Loving Heavenly Father. We approach the Throne of Grace because we desperately need Your help to and stay on the Path of Righteousness. We ask for Your Divine Help to resolve our challenges. We are following Your command to use our faith to trust in You and not to use our limited wisdom. Lord, we thank You for giving us the victory, and ask this prayer in the Loving and Righteous Name of Jesus, Amen.

You Are Not Your Provider

At some point in our lives, we will reach the Red Sea that no amount of human effort can open or resolve. Through daily personal worship, we acknowledge God’s love and His faithfulness, trusting that He will give us our provisions.

Our Heavenly Father is not only Faithful, He is always true to His Character. If he said it, He will do it. Praises of gratitude increase our faith in God.

“Bless the LORD, oh my soul; and all that is within me, bless His Holy name! Bless the LORD, oh my soul, and forget not all His benefits.. ” (Psalm 103:1-2).

From living a sacrificial life of serving God with humility and daily prayers of gratitude for all His blessings, we immediately fall to our knees, whispering a prayer in faith knowing that God will provide in every season of life.

“I have told you these things, so that in Me you may have [perfect] peace. In the world you have tribulation and distress and suffering, but be courageous [be confident, be undaunted, be filled with joy]; I have overcome the world.” (John 16:33, Amplified Bible).

Our Response: “The righteous cry out, and the LORD hears, And delivers them out of all their troubles.” (Psalm 34:17).

So, when life events create lean times of financial deficit from job loss, or unexpected sickness, those who have developed a total dependency on God are confident they will receive God’s Divine Help.

“Let us therefore come boldly to the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy and find grace to help in time of need.” (Hebrews 4:16).

We were not created to figure it out, or use our thoughts to develop solutions that place us as players in the risky Game of Chance. In Matthew 6, Jesus reiterates that He will provide for us. Only trust Him! Peace and Blessings.

Lord God, we are thankful and grateful for Your love and continuous care. With all of our hearts, souls, and minds, we worship and praise your Holy Name because you are God. We ask this prayer in the Worthy Name of Jesus, our Triumphant King, Amen.

https://www.instagram.com/reel/DPlo9XOATqn/?igsh=MWdxcTc1NG9wYWdkaw==

“The Authority of Jesus Questioned”

Matthew 21:23-27…

23 “Jesus entered the temple courts, and, while He was teaching, the chief priests and the elders of the people came to him. ‘By what authority are you doing these things?’ they asked. ‘And who gave you this authority?’ “

24 Jesus replied, ‘I will also ask you one question. If you answer me, I will tell you by what authority I am doing these things. 25 “John’s baptism—where did it come from? Was it from heaven, or of human origin? ‘ “

“They discussed it among themselves and said, ‘If we say, From heaven, He will ask, ‘Then why didn’t you believe him?’ 26 But if we say, ‘Of human origin’—we are afraid of the people, for they all hold that John was a prophet.’ “

27 “So they answered Jesus, ‘We don’t know.’ Then he said, ‘Neither will I tell you by what authority I am doing these things.’ “

“But why do you call Me ‘Lord, Lord,’ and not do the things which I say?” (Luke 6:46).

The commitment to follow Christ has always required surrender and faithful obedience to His authority, which was given to Him by God, the Father.

When we fail to consecrate and commit ourselves to God through daily personal worship, our thoughts and actions supersede our spoken words.

But what we do not understand is that we are questioning God’s Authority, which places us in wilful rebellion against God’s Sovereignty.

“And being found in appearance as a man, He humbled himself by becoming obedient to death— even death on a cross!” (Philippians 2:8, NIV). Jesus’s earthly life reveals that obedience to God is non-negotiable.

Remain Faithful to God

“Let love and faithfulness never leave you; Then you will win favor and a good name in the sight of God and man.” (Proverbs 3:3-4).

Never Trust Your Own Thoughts

“Trust in the Lord with all your heart, And lean not on your own understanding; In all your ways acknowledge Him And He shall direct your paths. (Proverbs 3:5-6).

Reverence God Through a Spirit of Humility

“Do not be wise in your own eyes; Fear the Lord and depart from evil. It will be health to your flesh, And strength to your bones” (Proverbs 3:7).

Embrace God’s Promise of His Faithfulness

“For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, says the LORD, thoughts of peace and not of evil, to give you a future and a hope.” (Jeremiah 29:11).

Honor God’s Sovereignty, Because He Is God

“My thoughts are nothing like your thoughts,’ says the LORD. ‘And my ways are far beyond anything you could imagine. For just as the heavens are higher than the earth, so my ways are higher than your ways and my thoughts higher than your thoughts.’ ” (Isaiah 55:8-9).

Our Allegiance and Loyalty Is To God, or To Ourselves

Reflection: By whose authority are you living your life? Every day, we choose our destiny, our choices and lifestyles reveal if we are obeying God, or not.

If we live according to our thoughts and desires, then we choose to forfeit our reward of The Crown of Life. Our only reward will be whatever we pursued and accomplished in our earthly lives.

Jesus’ Promise To the Faithful

“To the one who is victorious, I will give the right to sit with Me on my throne, just as I was victorious and sat down with my Father on His throne.” (Revelation 3:21, NIV).

Bible Study: Revelation 19, 21-22

Lord God, we ask forgiveness for the sins of self-reliance and disobedience. Cleanse us from all unrighteousness, and remove the stubbornness in our hearts. We desperately need Your Holy Spirit to baptize our hearts, and minds, so we can see life through spiritual eyes, and live a sacrificial life of obedience. Lord, we consecrate our lives to follow Jesus Christ, our Shepherd, and ask for the daily Spiritual strength, wisdom, and discernment required to live as overcomers. God, we acknowledge that You are the Kingdom, the Power, and the Glory, and ask this prayer in the Worthy Name of our Triumphant King, Jesus, Amen.

Should a Christian Celebrate Halloween?

“Be holy, for I Am Holy” (1 Peter 1:16). “Take no part in the worthless deeds of evil and darkness; instead, expose them.” (Ephesians 5:11, NLT).

As a child, we received God’s blessing of growing up in a Christian home. My mother gave us the simple, but profound explanation that Halloween did not honor God, and we live to honor and obey God.

From a spiritual perspective, there is no reason to offer an alternative to Halloween, in the attempt to pacify children. God expects parents to teach their children the difference between what is Holy and unholy.

The Steadfast Decision is ours to Choose: Compromised Christianity, or Receiving Our Crown of Life.

“Therefore, come out from among unbelievers, and separate yourselves from them, says the LORD. Don’t touch their filthy things, and I will welcome you.” (2 Corinthians 6:17, NLT).

The Assurance We Receive from Trusting Christ, Our Shepherd

“I have told you these things so that in Me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation. But take courage; I have overcome the world!” (John 16:33)

Jesus tells us that the life we desire filled with only love, joy, happiness, peace, and without hardships will not happen on this present Earth.

In fact, the life of a believer is the toughest journey, we will ever face. In the Great Controversy of Good and Evil, believers are the target!

Not only do we face the external opposition of Satan’s temptations, and animosity for following Christ, we must also overcome our internal desires, which are always in rebellion against God.

“Remain in Me, and I [will remain] in you. Just as no branch can bear fruit by itself without remaining in the vine, neither can you [bear fruit, producing evidence of your faith] unless you remain in Me.” (John 15:4, Amplified Bible).

The King James version of this Scripture states, “Abide in Me.” To abide in Christ means that we become totally dependent on Him.

“For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, says the LORD, thoughts of peace and not of evil, to give you a future and a hope.” (Jeremiah 29:11).

We choose to follow Christ by using our faith to surrender in obedience. By seeking God’s will and plans through daily prayer, we receive wisdom and strength to fulfill His Perfect Plans.

“Even before they call, I will answer; while they are still speaking, I will hear.” (Isaiah 65:24).

Because we were created with a free will to choose, we must ask God for help. Whispering prayers throughout our day eliminates self-reliance and builds our faith and trust in God.

Despite our circumstances, if we rely on Christ, the Holy Spirit gives us unlimited Spiritual comfort, peace, joy, and guidance.

“Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.” (Matthew 11:29, NIV).

Throughout the Scriptures, Jesus reiterates His love for us, still, due to busyness and distractions, we often do not engage in consistent personal worship [prayer, and Bible study].

But when facing challenges, if we exclude God, we easily become discouraged. Using human wisdom and effort has many limitations, we can develop strategies, but we can never predict a definitive outcome.

Prayer and studying the Holy Scriptures keeps us grounded in Christ and builds our faith. The Bible is the only way, we can learn Christ’s Loving Character, His promises, and the history of His Divine intervention in the lives of the righteous.

“My sheep hear My voice, and I know them, and they follow Me.” (John 10:27).

Truthfully, we cannot trust a stranger. When our knowledge of God is limited, we instinctively place our faith and trust in ourselves. But at some point, we will experience life-changing events that only Divine Intervention can resolve.

“The name of the LORD is a strong tower; The righteous run to it and are safe.” (Proverbs 18:10).

From staying connected to Christ, we receive an internal assurance of peace and safety in knowing that we are loved by God, He is Faithful, and Committed to taking care of us.

“Then God said, ‘Let Us make man in Our image, according to Our likeness…’ ” (Genesis 1:26).

To learn the Righteous Character of Christ and His love for us requires that we start with studying the Book of Genesis, the Beginning. Biblical knowledge increases our faith in God.

The Foundation: Study the Book of Genesis and the Four Gospels [Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John], which records the Life of Christ. Before studying, always pray for The Teacher, God, the Holy Spirit to give you spiritual wisdom and discernment.

Our Heavenly Father Cares

“The LORD your God is among you; He is mighty to save. He will rejoice over you with gladness; He will quiet you with His love; He will rejoice over you with singing.” (Zephaniah 3:17, BSB).

Words cannot describe the inner peace that comes from learning who God is, and His Amazing Love for those created in His Divine Image.

“Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.” (John 14:27, NIV).

Despite our challenges and hardships, our Heavenly Father also allows us to enjoy peaceful times. Even when experiencing hardships, we are not grapes, God never crushes us, which would also crush our hope in His Agape love.

“Therefore the Lord waits to be gracious to you, and therefore He exalts himself to show mercy to you. For the Lord is a God of justice; blessed are all those who wait for Him.” (Isaiah 30:18).

We are sons and daughters of the Most-High God who loves us unconditionally! God desires to lead us from Earth to Heaven. We cannot change ourselves or stay on the Path of Righteousness without Divine Directions.

We often mistake suffering the consequences of disobedient choices for God-Allowed trials. Thinking our own thoughts and planning our lives without God always has repercussions.

Praying for God’s Divine Guidance before making decisions gives us the assurance that we are aligned with God’s plans, which is the only way we can enjoy His peace, and receive guaranteed Victorious Outcomes.

By accepting Christ as our personal Savior, we committed to following Him as sheep who follow their shepherd. We are never alone! Pray, Obey, and Persevere through life in Jesus’ strength.

“Let us then approach God’s throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need.” (Hebrews 4:16, NIV).

Daily personal worship [prayer and Bible study] is the outward sign of possessing a heart filled with love, loyalty, adoration, and reverence for our Loving Heavenly Father.

Staying connected to Christ has definitive advantages: In times of adversity and lingering hardships, only true worshipers can remain courageous, enjoying Jesus’ gift of peace.

From establishing a life of prayer, we establish our dependency on Christ. When facing the stormy seasons, our first response is a faith-based prayer asking for Divine Help.

“Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.” (Isaiah 41:10).

No other book, but the Bible gives us the spiritual nourishment needed to grow in Christ. Studying and meditating on the Scriptures invites the Holy Spirit to give us a deeper understanding.

Our commitment to worship God is rewarded. The Holy Spirit empowers us to perceive life through spiritual eyes. Our dependency on God is not weakness, it is the only way that we can remain steadfast in our Christian Journey.

“Trials never feel good, yet, trials are faith builders.”

From possessing Scriptural knowledge, in difficult times, the Holy Spirit reminds us of God’s promises, giving us the assurance of our Heavenly Father’s Love and Faithfulness.

Whether in peaceful, or stormy times, we should separate ourselves, and deeply reflect on God’s love and our many blessings. We did not achieve a lifetime of victories by using human effort.

“I have loved you with an everlasting love; therefore, I have continued to extend faithful love to you.” (Jeremiah 31:3, HCSB).

Our Sovereign God is always Faithful! Every day, we are recipients of His overwhelming Love, Grace, and Abundant mercies. Yes, God deserves our prayers of praise and worship.

The storm cannot last! Eventually, the Sun will shine! We know that Christ, our Loving Shepherd will say, “Peace be still” and give us a spiritual calm that cannot be reproduced by human ability.

Like Job who suffered the most devastating adversity recorded in the Bible, if we stay connected to Christ, we will be able to proclaim:

“I know that my redeemer lives, and that in the end He will stand on the earth. “Even after my [mortal] skin is destroyed [by death], Yet from my [immortal] flesh I will see God…” (Job 17:25-26, NIV, Amplified Bible).

Only God can guide us through the storms that produce spiritual growth and transformation necessary to prepare us to receive our Crown of Life. Yes and Amen!

“I pray that God, the source of hope, will fill you completely with joy and peace because you trust in him. Then you will overflow with confident hope through the power of the Holy Spirit.” (Romans 15:13, NLT).

Bible Study: Genesis, and The Four Gospels [Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John].

Lord God, we thank You for Your Divine Love and for taking care of us, even when we failed to acknowledge Your Faithfulness. Jesus, our Shepherd and Triumphant King, we choose You. We ask You to lead us, correct us, and protect us from spiritual warfare, and give us the strength to overcome external opposition and internal conflict. We thank You, and promise to give You the honor, the glory and the praise that you deserve. In Jesus’ Holy Name, we pray, Amen.

Sabbath Peace and Blessings

For the next 24 hours, immerse yourself in the Holy Scriptures, asking the Holy Spirit to empower you with wisdom, discernment, and the strength to apply God’s Righteous Principles to your life.

In 2 Timothy 3, the Apostle Paul described the time we are living in, The Last Days. To keep moving forward in our spiritual journey with Christ, we must be anchored to Christ through the study of the Bible, and much prayer.

Lord God, we pray and ask for the wisdom to see life through spiritual eyes. We know that You are coming soon, and Lord, we ask You to give us direction, so we stay on the Path of Righteousness. We ask for a double blessing on this Holy Sabbath. Thank You for hearing and answering our prayer that we ask in the Righteous Name of Jesus, Amen.

Every Believer Must Fight Two Battles: External and Internal, Pray for Help!

The External Opposition

“Today you are on the verge of battle with your enemies. Do not let your heart faint, do not be afraid, and do not tremble or be terrified because of them; for the Lord your God is He who goes with you, to fight for you against your enemies, to save you.” (Deuteronomy 20:3-4).

God’s Answer: “Submit yourselves, then, to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.” (James 4:7, NIV).

Spiritual Warfare is invisible to the human eye, still every believer is targeted. In the Great Controversy of Good and Evil, we are the focus. Satan uses people and temptations to fulfill His schemes in the attempt to separate us from God.

Internal Conflict: Our Minds [Hearts] Are the Battlefield

Internal: “The heart is deceitful above all things, And desperately wicked; Who can know it?” (Jeremiah 17:9). Since it is easier to choose wrong, we must pray to overcome our heart’s desires, which are never satisfied.

“Temptation comes from our own desires, which entice us and drag us away.” (James 1:14 NLT)

Though we can never be coerced to sin against God, every temptation is customized according to our desires and habits. Satan is not Omniscient, therefore he cannot read our minds, but he observes our habits and hears our spoken words.

The battles of Spiritual Warfare and the Desires of our Hearts are lifelong battles for which we desperately need Divine Strength to overcome!

The Struggle Is Real, but Victory Is Sure Through Jesus Christ

“For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this age, against spiritual hosts of wickedness in the heavenly places.” (Ephesians 6:12).

Although Satan has not changed his deceptive strategies since the Garden of Eden, his knowledge and wisdom supersedes human knowledge.

Yes, we were created in the Image of God, still, we were created lower than the angels. We cannot fight Satan, formerly known as Lucifer, the highest ranking angel, without the strength of Jesus, the Commander of Angel Armies.

True heart conversion reveals itself by acknowledging, “I was created to depend on God.”

Without involving God in our battles, we place ourselves in a spiritual dilemma, because we cannot win the war within, or the invisible warfare, without asking Jesus Christ, our Mighty Warrior for His Divine Help.

We Must Live As Prayer Warriors

“To pray without ceasing” means to pray continuously throughout our day for Spiritual wisdom, discernment, guidance, and strength. Prayer keeps us connected to Christ.

“The LORD will fight for you, and you shall hold your peace.” (Exodus 14:14).

The key to Victory is to possess a spirit of humility, always realizing your limitations. Before responding, or making decisions, always hesitate, and pray.

“Do not be wise in your own eyes.” (Proverbs 3:7). To build our faith, and test our obedience, there is always a waiting period when we pray for Divine Help. Resist the urge to help God.

“Wait patiently for the LORD. Be brave and courageous. Yes, wait patiently for the LORD.” (Psalm 27:14, NLT).

Who can fight against Christ, our Mighty Warrior and win?

God’s Promise: “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, NLT).

Bible Study: Exodus 14, 2 Chronicles 20, Psalm 37

Lord God, in these continuous Battles of Life, we desperately need Your Divine Help. We ask for the wisdom to use self-control when facing external opposition and internal conflict by persevering and waiting until you provide resolution. Lord, we thank You for Your Amazing Love and Divine protection. We ask this prayer in faith, and with joyful anticipation, we know that You will give us the victory. In Jesus’ Powerful Name, we pray, Amen.