Daily Devotional – Steps 2 Success with Spiritual Solutions

Surrender is Freedom!

Can you imagine a life without the chains of uncertainty, anxiety, worry, and fear of the future?

Every believer has the opportunity to live a life overflowing with Jesus’ gifts of peace, joy, and happiness. Brothers and sisters, I am finally living that life!

The Commitment to Live a Sacrificial Life Dedicated to Follow Christ Is Required to Receive Spiritual Freedom

“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. 2 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).

“Yes we are stained by sin, but the Supreme King of the universe says to come before His throne to receive help in our time of need. We are always in need of Jesus’ Divine Help.”

Through daily personal worship, we learn God’s plan for the new day. We pray the Prayer of Surrender: “God, what do you want me to do today?” Pray, Wait, and Obey.

When we commit to follow Jesus, the Holy Spirit speaks to us through our thoughts and the Holy Scriptures, leading and keeping us on the Path of Righteousness.

The willingness to surrender our self-reliance and totally depend on our Shepherd with faithful obedience is rewarded with Jesus’ Righteous Blessings.

Despite the uncertainties of life, the faithful have no worries. But most importantly, we do not have to wonder if we are going to receive our reward of Eternal Life.

The Fruit of the Spirit describes the attributes of Christ’s Righteous Character: His followers must also have the Fruit of the Spirit.

“But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, long suffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control. Against such there is no law. And those who are Christ’s have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires.” (Galatians 5:22-24).

Faithful obedience keeps us connected to Christ. In Philippians 1:6, Jesus promises to complete the work of spiritual growth and the transformation of our character, if we follow Him.

“Pray continuously!” (1 Thessalonians 5:17). Jesus Christ, our Savior, Shepherd, and Triumphant King invites us to come boldly before God’s Throne of Grace with our failures, weaknesses, sorrows, and cares.

Pray more! Perfect peace comes from letting go of our thoughts and inclinations to resolve life’s challenges. We were created us to have a dependent relationship with Christ.

“I will never leave you or forsake you.” Jesus desires us to know that we are never alone. Created in the image of God, all of Heaven is dedicated to helping us in this journey of life.

Yeshua, the Commander of Angel Armies Promise: “For He will command His angels concerning you to guard you in all your ways…” (Psalm 91:11, NIV).

Christ always protects the righteous! We have guardian angels who fight the unseen spiritual warfare of Satan’s evil angels. Whisper prayers throughout your day to express gratitude for Jesus’ Abundant Love, Faithfulness, and Protection.

“For the Lord gives wisdom; from His mouth come knowledge and understanding…” (Proverbs 2:6). God desires for us to have the spiritual wisdom necessary to perceive life through spiritual eyes.

Every day, ask for the free gift of wisdom. The Holy Spirit gives us the wisdom to discern truth from error, to understand the deepest meaning of the Holy Scriptures, and to understand the complexities of life.

Divine wisdom prevents us from becoming victims of scams, and being manipulated by Satan in matters of everyday life.

Divine wisdom and strength are required to recognize and overcome the internal conflict of following our hearts desires, and the external opposition of temptations.

Thank you Jesus for your Love! Yes, we have access to our Shepherd’s Divine Help 24/7. Yes and Amen!

Lord God, we come before Your Throne of Grace, yes, we are stained with sin, and have weaknesses, sorrows, cares, and failures. Still we accept Your invitation to help us, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. We ask for the forgiveness of our sins. Guide us and empower us with the strength to live as victorious overcomers. Lord, we acknowledge that You are the Supreme King of the universe, and the Sustainer of our lives. With faith and joyful expectancy, we believe that You have answered this prayer that we ask in the Holy Name of Jesus Christ, Amen.

Spiritual Red Flag: Do Not Trust Human Wisdom

“If you seek her [wisdom] as silver, And search for her as for hidden treasures; Then you will understand the fear of the Lord, And find the knowledge of God. For the Lord gives wisdom; From His mouth come knowledge and understanding.” (Proverbs 2:4-6).

Because we were created with limited understanding, 99.9% of the time, we usually perceive a situation incorrectly, which always leads to undesired chaos and consequences.

God Commands Us Not Replace Spiritual Wisdom and Discernment With Human 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).

Often a situation involving family or friends, directly impacts us. Do not presume that you know what is going on.

Whisper a prayer, asking God for spiritual discernment, and in a gentle tone lovingly ask, “Can you help me to understand what is happening?”

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

When facing conflict, always pray for God’s guidance. An Emotional Response always escalates the situation because emotional responses trigger emotional words of retaliation, and sometimes, acts of violence.

“Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes. For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities,against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms.” (Ephesians 6:11-12, NIV).

Everyday, every believer is facing unseen spiritual warfare on a personal level, in our homes, on our jobs, and in our neighborhoods.

One of Satan’s most effective strategies is to entice believers to participate in various discussions that always end in arguments.

Last week, I can recall sitting in the waiting area of the optician’s office, and the woman sitting next to me casually started a general conversation about hobbies, and we laughed at being yarn artists because we knit and crochet.

But then the conversation took a left turn, she said, “I love discussing politics, and usually can provoke others to get upset while I remain calm.” I never responded, and that was the end of our chat.

“But avoid foolish and ignorant disputes, knowing that they generate strife.” (2 Timothy 2:23).

There are topics that we must avoid because they always produce conflict: Religion, Politics, Economic Disparity, and Social Injustice.

Even among believers, God can never receive the glory and honor when we give into temptation, and discuss topics that are guaranteed to produce controversy.

“But each one is tempted when he is drawn away by his own desires and enticed.” (James 1:14).

Many Believers watch debates and programs that include controversy, immorality, profanity, and violence. Whatever we listen to is eventually reflected in our character, attitude, spoken words, and lifestyles.

“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).

If we are not witnessing then we must reflect on why we are involving ourselves in lengthy discussions with unbelievers. Our gift of time can be spent studying the Bible, praying, helping those in need, witnessing, and giving Bible studies.

Even when giving a Bible Study, if the individual is asking for clarification of a Scripture, our first response is to offer a spoken prayer asking for God’s guidance before we answer.

“Those who consider themselves religious and yet do not keep a tight rein on their tongues deceive themselves, and their religion is worthless.” (James 1:26, NIV).

Only God has the ability to always give perfect knowledge, wisdom, and understanding. Pray for spiritual wisdom and discernment in every aspect of life.

Lord God, we pray for the spiritual strength to overcome our desires to listen to and speak words designed to provoke controversy. We ask you to forgive us for the times that we have used our thoughts to discern a situation incorrectly, and initiated conflict with our words. Lord, bless us with the wisdom to know when to remain silent. We ask this prayer in faith and in the Righteous Name of Jesus Christ, Amen.

Wasted Years? Move Forward in Jesus’ Divine Strength!

“Do not remember the former things, Nor consider the things of old. Behold, I will do a new thing, Now it shall spring forth; Shall you not know it? I will even make a road in the wilderness And rivers in the desert.” (Isaiah 43:18-20).

From studying the Scriptures, we find that although we have wasted many years, and most likely suffered devastating consequences, God commands us to repent and move forward in His Divine Strength.

God’s forgiveness also includes the gift of Restoration. Not only are we commanded to stop looking behind us, but we must also let go of regret, remorse, and guilt.

God’s Promise: “To console those who mourn in Zion, To give them beauty for ashes, The oil of joy for mourning, The garment of praise for the spirit of heaviness; That they may be called trees of righteousness, The planting of the LORD, that He may be glorified.” (Isaiah 61:3)

Because God is Omniscient and perceives time as Eternal, He knows the number of days in our earthly lives, and is prepared to move us forward in our spiritual journey.

The Power of Redemption

Saul was not only responsible for Stephen’s death, but he also initiated the persecution and death of many of the early Christians.

“Then he fell to the ground, and heard a voice saying to him, ‘Saul, Saul, why are you persecuting Me?'” (Acts 9:4).

On the road to Damascus, Saul accepted Christ as His Savior, changed his name to Paul, and through the power of the Holy Spirit started the early churches.

Through Paul’s life, God reveals that His power is unlimited. From Saul, the Christian killer to Paul, a messenger of Truth, giving hope to the Gentiles, Jesus Christ saves!

Paul matured to become one of Jesus’ greatest disciples of Jesus Christ, writing the majority of the New Testament.

For his dedication to God, Paul was given the deepest spiritual meaning of Righteousness By Faith, Sanctification, and Christ’s Role as our Intercessor in the Heavenly Sanctuary.

Paul’s Epistles are spiritually challenging. We must pray for the Holy Spirit to give us the Divine wisdom and discernment before we can understand the depth of his writings.

“Not that I have already attained, or am already perfected; but I press on, that I may lay hold of that for which Christ Jesus has also laid hold of me…”

Brethren, I do not count myself to have apprehended; but one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind and reaching forward to those things which are ahead…” (Philippians 2:12-13).

The Apostle Paul speaks from personal experience; we are forgiven, and expected to fulfill our new spiritual assignment, which requires that we forget our past because God has great plans for us.

Reflection: What is your Spiritual Assignment that God has chosen for you to do?

Lord God, thank You for redeeming us and being a God who restores. We ask You to reveal the spiritual work that we are called to fulfill. Empower us with the Holy Spirit, and give us the wisdom to understand Your plans for our lives. We pray for the guidance and strength to keep moving forward, and ask this prayer in the Righteous Name of Jesus, Amen.

Gratitude is a Lifestyle – Developing A Grateful Heart

David’s Prayer of Praise and Gratitude: “Praise the Lord, my soul; all my inmost being, praise His holy name. 2 Praise the Lord, my soul, and forget not all His benefits—3 who forgives all your sins and heals all your diseases, 4 who redeems your life from the pit and crowns you with love and compassion, 5 who satisfies your desires with good things so that your youth is renewed like the eagle’s.” (Psalm 103:1-5, NIV).

God is the Source and Sustainer of Life, and the Giver of All Good Gifts: Yes, we love blessings! Yet when we think of God’s blessings, it usually produces thoughts of receiving money and tangible possessions.

But King David reminds us that the Spiritual blessings of God’s Love, Redemption, Forgiveness, Grace, Mercies, Patience, and Divine Strength are crucial to our spiritual walk with Christ because they empower us to live righteously.

“Be very careful, then, how you live—not as unwise but as wise, making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil.” (Ephesians 5:15-16). We value our daily gift of another day because the Scriptures remind us, “…For you are a mist that appears for a little time and then vanishes.”(James 4:14).

“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).

Every modality that is purchased with money, promising peace, is a counterfeit. Satan can mimic many things, but he will never be able to reproduce Jesus’ gift of Divine Peace.

To every believer, Jesus’ gift of peace is freely given, but only a few Christians actually experience the joy and happiness that come from having continuous spiritual peace.

“My people perish for lack of knowledge.” (Hosea 4:6).

A key obstacle to receiving Jesus’ peace is our failure to study the Bible, leaving us unaware of God’s expectations. The only alternative is to follow our thoughts and inclinations, which prevents the Holy Spirit from guiding us in our earthly journey.

No Peace From Traveling on the Highway of Self-Governance: Let’s face it, we live in an environment where the prevailing worldview is to rely on one’s thoughts and emotions.

Although the pursuit of happiness is the goal, traveling the world’s Expressway requires a lifestyle of self-reliance, which keeps the mind in overdrive. Relying on our thoughts to navigate this tumultuous journey comes at a high price; we have no time to commune with God in personal worship.

Without relying on Divine wisdom and discernment, the brain is overwhelmed by constant overthinking every day. Self-reliance demands payment that leads to spiritual and emotional bankruptcy. Self-gratification requires the continuous development of strategies that must be reevaluated and quickly restructured when failure occurs.

Enough is never enough! King Solomon tells us the human heart can never be satisfied: “Everything is wearisome beyond description. No matter how much we see, we are never satisfied. No matter how much we hear, we are not content.” (Ecclesiastes 1:8, NLT).

The decision to exclude God produces a state of “Emotional Exhaustion Leading to Spiritual Confusion that Separates Us From God.” Sadly, like the prodigal son, it usually takes a crisis to return to God on bended knees before we come to our senses.

The Spiritual Steps to Restoration and Receiving Jesus’ Peace

Changing Lanes: “I am the vine, you are the branches. He who abides in Me, and I in him, bears much fruit; for without Me you can do nothing.” (John 15:5).

God’s perspective is always spiritual. Jesus reminds us that we cannot save our souls. Staying on the Path of Righteousness has always required Divine Help. When Christ, our Shepherd, tells us that we were created without the ability to guide ourselves, we believe Him without question.

The Plan of Redemption includes the gift of Salvation, which is freely given to those who believe and accept Jesus as their Savior. But certainly it was not free for Jesus Christ, who was required to die a heinous death on Calvary’s Cross.

When we truly love God, we are grateful that through Christ, we have received the option of not paying the wages of sin. Loving God is demonstrated by seeking His will through daily personal worship, which should not be a burden.

Gratitude is Obedience: Daily personal worship [Prayer and Bible study] is a lifestyle that reveals a converted and sanctified heart willing to acquiesce to God’s Sovereign Authority.

The Standing Invitation: “So let us come boldly to the throne of our gracious God. There we will receive his mercy, and we will find grace to help us when we need it most.” (Hebrews 4:16, NLT).

Jesus is Still Interceding for the Righteous

Jesus Christ, Yeshua, our Heavenly Intercessor, receives our prayers, forgives our sins, covers us with His Righteousness, gives us our daily provisions, heals our minds and bodies, and sends angels to constantly protect us from unseen spiritual warfare and physical danger [Psalm 91].

We have a relentless enemy who desires our souls! Yes, believers, we are the target in The Great Controversy of Good and Evil! Our fight is not against flesh and blood.

Jesus’ Warning: “…He was a murderer from the beginning, not holding to the truth, for there is no truth in him. When he lies, he speaks his native language, for he is a liar and the father of lies.”(John 8:44, NIV).

Satan, our greatest enemy, has deceived many to believe that we can live as we please and still inherit our Crown of Life. “Be doers of the word, and not hearers only. Otherwise, you are deceiving yourselves.” (James 1:22).

Through daily Consecration, we realign ourselves with God’s Divine Purpose by choosing to exit from the Road of Self-Governance back to the Narrow Path of Righteousness.

The Sacrificial Life Is the Only Life Acceptable to God

A couple of years ago, I watched a documentary filmed in Japan on the reinvented life of a retired college professor who practiced the concept of “Need Over Greed.”

Although she developed a mindset of gratitude from the practice of “enough is enough and zero waste,” she denied any religious affiliation with her lifestyle.

Need Over Greed and Minimalism are lifestyle changes that require continuous discipline, practiced by unbelievers who never acknowledge God, which should raise a Red Flag for believers.

“For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind [self control].” (2 Timothy 1:7).

We have 24/7 access to Jesus, who promises to give us the Divine Strength to live a disciplined, righteous life. The Apostle Paul tells us that we were created with spiritual gifts, so when tempted, we pray for Jesus’ supernatural strength to overcome; still, God expects us to use self-control.

Throughout the Bible, we learn that God is Love, and He has always fulfilled His promises to “never leave us.” We have Jesus Christ, the Mighty Warrior, who promises to fight our battles, giving us hope and peace: “No weapon formed against you will prosper.”

Gratitude for God goes beyond spoken words. Every day, our gratitude is reflected through a lifestyle of surrender and faithful obedience. We love Him because He first loved us. Yes and Amen!

The Pathway to Peace is Paved With Gratitude

“Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, in every situation [no matter what the circumstances] be thankful and continually give thanks to God; for this is the will of God for you in Christ Jesus.” (1 Thessalonians 5:16-18).

Bible Study: Galatians 5; Ephesians 6

Prayer: Thank You, Most Gracious, Heavenly Father, for Your Amazing and Continuous Love. Forgive us for nurturing a spirit of self-reliance. We acknowledge that we can do nothing without You. Lead us, guide us, correct us, and protect us as we navigate through our spiritual journey. We commit to living a life that reveals our desire to give You the honor, glory, and praise that You rightfully deserve. In Jesus’ Holy Name, we pray this prayer of gratitude, Amen.

Trust God With Your Life

Redirecting our faith and focus from our challenges to God’s Sovereign and Unlimited Power proves that we believe God is who He says He is, “I Am that I Am!”

Elisha Prays, “Lord, Open His Eyes”

“Now the king of Aram was at war with Israel. After conferring with his officers, he said, ‘I will set up my camp in such and such a place.'”

9 “The man of God sent word to the king of Israel: ‘Beware of passing that place, because the Arameans are going down there.’ 10 So the king of Israel checked on the place indicated by the man of God. Time and again Elisha warned the king, so that he was on his guard in such places.”

11 “This enraged the king of Aram. He summoned his officers and demanded of them, ‘Tell me! Which of us is on the side of the king of Israel?'”

12 “‘None of us, my lord the king,’ said one of his officers, ‘but Elisha, the prophet who is in Israel, tells the king of Israel the very words you speak in your bedroom.'”

13 “Go, find out where he is,’ the king ordered, ‘so I can send men and capture him.’ The report came back: ‘He is in Dothan.’ 14 Then he sent horses and chariots and a strong force there. They went by night and surrounded the city.”

15 “When the servant of the man of God got up and went out early the next morning, an army with horses and chariots had surrounded the city. ‘Oh no, my lord! What shall we do?’ the servant asked.”

16 “‘Don’t be afraid,’ the prophet answered. ‘Those who are with us are more than those who are with them.'”

17 “And Elisha prayed, ‘Open his eyes, Lord, so that he may see.’ Then the Lord opened the servant’s eyes, and he looked and saw the hills full of horses and chariots of fire all around Elisha.”

18 “As the enemy came down toward him, Elisha prayed to the Lord, ‘Strike this army with blindness.’ So he struck them with blindness, as Elisha had asked.” (2 Kings 6:8-18, NIV).

This morning at 3 am, God awakened me to speak to my heart, and reminded me, that He is the God of all flesh, and nothing is too hard for Him.

God’s primary method of speaking to us is through the Holy Scriptures. Sadly, we have become too comfortable with only attending church once a week, and hearing second hand knowledge of who God is from others who dedicate their time and effort to studying God’s Holy Word.

Elisha was a great prophet, and in Biblical times, servants lived with their masters. Servitude was not like the atrocious enslavement that the Israelites suffered in Egypt.

Although Elisha’s servant had witnessed God perform countless miracles through His faithful and dedicated prophet, Elisha’s servant remained faithless.

How is it possible for someone to witness the power of God and still not believe?

“And without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to Him must believe that He exists and that He rewards those who earnestly seek Him.” (Hebrews 11:6, NIV).

To believe in God requires that our hearts are converted and we place 100% of our faith in God.

When challenges arise, instead of us thinking, What am I going to do? We immediately fall to our knees and pray for Divine Help, and in the same prayer, thank God for giving us the victory.

Why? Because we believe that God loves us, and we have a Heavenly Father Who is Sovereign and Omnipotent.

To have the faith and courage that God requires us to completely trust Him with our life. We relinquish self-reliance through daily surrender.

Whether we are facing dilemmas, or the routine duties of life, when we include God, we reveal that our love, loyalty, and trust is completely in Him.

“The joy of the Lord is my strength.” (Nehemiah 6:8).

It is wonderful to awaken with a mind filled with peace, joy, and happiness. Involving God in every aspect of our lives is a faith-building activity that removes all doubts, fears, anxieties, and worries.

From our willingness to trust and obey God, Christ promises to shower us with His greatest spiritual blessings of steadfast faith, courage, wisdom, discernment, endurance, and perseverance, which is required to run the Christian race and win.

Steadfast faith in God redirects our focus to God’s power instead of the circumstances. We can only live as Victorious Overcomers, if we stop trusting in our limited abilities.

How important is faith in God? Faith in God is the foundation of our relationship with Jesus Christ. Faith, or the lack of faith also determines our destiny.

Reflection: If we did not honor and revere God with steadfast faith in our earthly lives, can we expect to spend eternity with God?

If we did not trust God on Earth, it would also be impossible to trust Him in Heaven.

The character that we develop on Earth must reveal steadfast Faith and the attributes of the Character of Christ, written in Galatians 5:22-23 to receive Eternal Life.

Yes, we were given a mustard seed size faith, but God expects our faith to strengthen and experience growth based on our belief in His Sovereign Power, which requires knowledge of His Divine Character.

Our daily personal worship should consist of prayer and studying the Bible. The Scriptures feed our faith. The same God who parted the Red Sea and the Jordan River says, “I do not change! Trust Me.”

Those who trust in God are empowered with the Divine Strength of Jesus Christ, through the Holy Spirit.

Trusting God with your life produces spiritual growth and development. Not only will you begin to perceive life through spiritual eyes, but your character will also change to reflect the Righteousness of Christ.

David’s prayer reveals that humility, surrender, and obedience is worship: “I sought the Lord, and He heard me, And delivered me from all my fears. This poor man cried out, and the Lord heard him,
And saved him out of all his troubles.” (Psalm 34:4, 6).

Preparing for Eternal Life One Day At a Time

Lord God, we come to You on bended knees, seeking Your forgiveness for redirecting our faith and trust from You to ourselves, and for not studying your Holy Scriptures. Lord, we confess that our faith is weak because we have failed to worship you in Spirit and Truth. We ask you for strength, wisdom, and discernment. And we thank You for hearing and answering our prayer that we ask in the Righteous Name of Jesus Christ, Amen.

The Believer’s Priority: A Relationship With Christ

“The LORD our God, the LORD is one. Love the LORD your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength” (Deuteronomy 6:4-5).

In the Four Gospels of the New Testament, we find that Jesus reiterates the command for us to love God, the Father with all that we have.

Loving God is a personal desire and requires a daily commitment to put Him first. Heartfelt love for God is the catalyst required to serve Him with honor and reverence.

How is this accomplished when we face countless distractions, crammed schedules, and great responsibilities?

Loving God motivates us to modify our lifestyle by establishing boundaries. We do not let people, or pleasure seeking activities interfere with obeying God, which is our highest worship.

Christian Believers Are Followers of Christ

“Jesus said to him, ‘I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me.’ ” (John 14:6).

Jesus Christ, God, the Son is not only our Savior and Redeemer, but He is also our Intercessor receiving every prayer, and our Mediator bridging the spiritual chasm between God, the Father and ourselves.

The commitment to follow Christ requires living a sacrificial life. Since God’s goal is to give us Eternal Life, we do not waste our daily gift of time to pursue wealth, success, and material possessions [Study Matthew 6].

Separating ourselves to reflect on our daily blessings and our lives reveals that God has faithfully kept His promises to sustain us.

Worshiping God in Spirit and Truth

When our hearts are converted, we are loyal to God, continuously fighting against the spiritual warfare of distractions and the internal drive of self-seeking gratification.

Loving God requires our time. We should not try to squeeze God into a busy schedule, but from the moment we awaken, God receives the first fruits of our time.

Worship Is a Lifestyle: Recently, I did a big chop eliminating activities that contributed nothing to my spiritual and personal growth.

In Ephesians 6, the Apostle Paul tells us that we face many unseen dangers and the Great Controversy of Good and Evil.

“Pray without ceasing.” (1 Thessalonians 5:17).

Whisper short prayers silently, or audibly throughout the day. Prayer keeps us connected to Christ whose guidance, wisdom, and strength, we desperately need.

Active participation in our journey of spiritual transformation requires at least one hour every day in personal worship.

The ideal way to stay close to Christ is through morning and evening worship.

In the morning, we come to the Throne of Grace to pray for God’s plans to be revealed and to receive the Divine strength to fulfill His plans.

Evening worship gives us the opportunity to reflect on the given day, and express gratitude for the many victories, including the safe-keeping of ourselves and our family.

We should not limit expressing gratitude for God’s never-ending love, faithfulness, and the blessing of keeping us safe from spiritual and physical harm to only twice-a-day.

To live as Overcomers, we must stay connected to Christ. We ask God for the wisdom to distinguish His voice from the countless voices including our thoughts that would deter us from fulfilling His will.

The Holy Spirit keeps us on the Path of Righteousness by speaking to us through our thoughts, conscience, and the Holy Scriptures.

By any means necessary, put God first! Preparation for worshiping God eternally requires forming a lifestyle of worship in our earthly lives.

We serve a Loving, Protective, and Faithful Heavenly Father who deserves our honor, glory, and praise.

In the Book of Psalms, King David teaches us to praise God continuously for His many blessings. Our praise keeps us connected to Christ who gives us the strength to persevere.

Lord God, for guiding, protecting, and correcting us, we thank You. For giving us Your Son, Jesus Christ who redeemed and rescued us from sin’s outcome, we thank You. And for revealing your Ultimate Plan in Revelation to give us Eternal Life, we thank You. With praise and gratitude, we ask this prayer in the Worthy Name of Jesus Christ, Amen.

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.

We Overcome Through Christ’s Strength

“Be holy, for I Am Holy. (1 Peter 1:16).

Living Holy Is to Be Set Apart from Worldly Habits and Pursuits

The Holy Spirit will teach us how to be holy. Since Satan knows his time is short, he is doubling his efforts to distract us from our commitment to God.

What does God require of us?

“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).

We intentionally renounce sinful habits, behaviors, and separate ourselves from unbelievers, which includes family and friends who Satan uses to easily persuade us to sin against God.

Our responsibility is to spend time with God. Prayer is our highest form of worship to God. Pray consistently, and much more than once or twice a day, and study the Bible, which gives us Spiritual Nourishment.

If you have never studied the Bible, begin with Genesis, which teaches us God’s Righteous and Loving Character, His overwhelming love for those created in His image, the attributes of a Christian character, and His faithful commitment to helping the righteous to overcome temptation and adversity.

Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path…I have hidden Your word in my heart that I might not sin against You.” (Psalm 119:105, 111).

We should never rush through the Bible. The Book of Genesis contains 52 chapters. Set aside 60 days to study. Our goal is to become Forever Learners of God’s word, which transforms our character, and teaches us how to live righteously, and to depend on God.

Worship Is Placing Ourselves In God’s Holy Presence

Separate yourself from all distractions and people. Place your phone on do not disturb, pray, and ask the Holy Spirit to give you wisdom and discernment of God’s Truth, and the strength to live by His words.

The purpose of studying the Bible is to learn and practice God’s expectations of His sons and daughters, to receive His instructions not only when facing dilemmas, but also before making decisions that affect our daily routine of life.

We must have Scriptural knowledge before our minds, characters, and personalities are transformed by the Holy Spirit, which is a lifelong spiritual journey.

“Look, I will come as unexpectedly as a thief! Blessed are all who are watching for me, who keep their clothing ready so they will not have to walk around naked and ashamed.” (Revelation 16:15, NLT).

What does it mean to keep our clothing ready, and not be naked and ashamed?

“Being ‘clothed’ spiritually means to be covered with the Robe of Christ’s Righteousness, while being ‘naked’ spiritually means to be exposed in one’s own sins and self-righteousness.”

“It takes the right situation to reveal a person’s true character.”

God tells us that every secret within our hearts will be exposed. When we harbor secret sins, which are never a secret to God, He allows a situation to happen, which exposes the true status of our hearts, and we learn who we really are.

We can never change ourselves, or stay on the Narrow Path of Righteousness without asking for Divine Help every day.

Christ did not create us to use our thoughts, and limited human wisdom and strength to overcome the conflict of our internal desires and the external opposition of Satan’s temptations.

Whisper prayers throughout your waking hours asking God for strength. Your prayers will be answered. The Holy Spirit will empower you with Jesus’ Strength, Wisdom, and Discernment, this is the only way, we can live as Overcomers.

“I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” (Philippians 4:13).

Personal Testimony

This is how I changed my relationship with Christ. Every day as soon as I awaken, I consecrate my mind, body, and soul to God. I have personal worship twice-a-day, spending time studying the Scriptures and praying throughout my day for strength.

I stopped making decisions without praying, waiting, listening for God’s voice, and then obeying His instructions. Truthfully, this is still my struggle to not impulsively follow my thoughts.

Before making a decision always, Pause, Pray, and Wait on the Lord to answer your prayer. God perceives time as Eternal, so He is never in a hurry.

Spiritual Growth and Character Development Occurs In Small Steps

The Holy Spirit changes us daily, but gradually. And you will recognize that you are changing spiritually because you will start feeling differently about “Sin.”

There are things you won’t be able to talk about, programs you will cease watching, and listening to, and you will spend less time on social media, and let go of other habits that caused you to waste your time instead of worshiping God.

Sanctification is the progressive transformation of our minds, characters, and personalities, and we must cooperate fully with the Holy Spirit to be changed.

Jesus placed great emphasis on loving God, the Father. Because our hearts are filled with self-love, we must possess genuine love for God to put Him first.

“You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your strength.” (Deuteronomy 6:4-7, Matthew 22:37-40, Mark 12:30-31, Luke 10:27).

Loving God with everything we have, is written in four different Chapters of the Bible. Our relationship with Christ is only possible when we love and are loyal to God, the Father.

To be a Christian requires that we possess a teachable spirit of humility, and the willingness to surrender daily, and faithfully obey God.

God gave us the spiritual gifts of love, power, a sound mind, and self-control (2 Timothy 1:7).

“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).

Daily worship enables us to recognize who we are in Christ Jesus. When our identity is anchored in Christ, we will not engage in sinful practices.

“And behold, I am coming quickly, and My reward is with Me, to give to every one according to his work.” (Revelation 22:12).

The King is coming sooner than we think. We can never overcome temptations and adversity using our thoughts, strategies, and strength. Several times a day, pray for Jesus to give you His strength, wisdom, and discernment.

Let go of everything that does not please God! Nothing on this Earth is worth exchanging your Crown of Life for. Peace and Blessings.

Lord God, we need you. We ask You to cleanse us from all unrighteousness, to give us a pure heart, and baptize our hearts with an outpouring of the Holy Spirit. We thank You for Your Love, Grace, and Mercies, and ask this prayer in Jesus’ Holy Name, Amen.

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.

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

“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.” [My conquest is accomplished, My victory abiding]. (John 16:33, Amplified Bible)

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.