Devotional – Steps 2 Success with Spiritual Solutions

Christ Chose Us To Always Reflect His Light

“You are the light of the world. A city that is set on a hill cannot be hidden. Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven.” —Matthew 5:14, 16

Pastor G’s Testimony of His Life-Changing Experience

“It was a busy morning for Pastor G. He had awakened early to prepare for the Bible Class and the Sermon, and he was also leading an Evangelistic Series in the afternoon. He grabbed his keys, ran out the door, and sped away….

He drove through the city traffic, annoyed that so many people were out on that morning and could make him late for church. Where were they all going? Then, out of nowhere, one car cut in front of him. He slammed on the brakes and held up his fist in frustration and anger, yelling at the driver.

Finally, Pastor G arrived at the church. As he stood up to teach the lesson, his eyes scanned his class and came to rest on a familiar face: the driver of the car he was angry at just 20 minutes earlier was sitting on the church pew.” SSNet

Jesus’ disciple Peter was a fisherman who was prideful, aggressive, impatient, and usually the first one to express his feelings using harsh words.

In fact, at The Last Supper when Jesus told them that one of them would betray Him, Peter immediately stated, “Lord, I am ready to go with You, both to prison and to death.” (Luke 22:33).

As the disciples followed Jesus to the Mount of Olives and entered the Garden of Gethsemane before He separated Himself to pray, Jesus told them, “Pray that you may not enter into temptation.”

The Rest of Peter’s Story: After Jesus’ arrest, Peter viciously denied knowing Christ three times, swearing and cursing, and then the rooster crowed, just like Jesus prophesied.

Jesus Forgives and Restores Peter: After Jesus’ resurrection, He had breakfast with His disciples by the sea. “Jesus asked Peter three times, ‘Do you love me?’ as recorded in John 21:15–17.”

“By asking Peter, ‘Do you love Me?’ three times, Jesus was emphasizing the importance of Peter’s love and [unrelenting] obedience to his Lord as necessary for his future ministry.”

And from deciding that he desired to love like Jesus loved, Peter cooperated with the Holy Spirit, who changed his crude, unloving heart into a gentle heart that was tender and responsive, a heart overflowing with God’s Agape Love.

Yes, on the Day of Pentecost, the Holy Spirit gave Peter the wisdom and the words to witness Jesus’ Love and Saving Power: “Therefore let all the house of Israel know assuredly that God has made this Jesus, whom you crucified, both Lord and Christ.” (Acts 2:36).

When Peter spoke, the people who knew him as the rough fisherman listened closely to his words. Yes, Peter revealed that following Jesus, and surrendering to Him with faithful obedience, invites the Holy Spirit to transform us from roaring lions into gentle sheep.

The People’s Response: “And with many other words he testified and exhorted them, saying, ‘Be saved from this perverse generation.’ Then those who gladly received his word were baptized; and that day about three thousand souls were added to them.” (Acts 2:40-41).

Today, Jesus is asking His believers [you and me], “Do you love Me?” Yes? Then Feed My Lost Sheep!

Possessing the Love of Christ Is the Foundation of Our Relationship With Christ and Our Most Powerful Witness: “Though I speak with the languages of men and of angels, but have not love, I have become sounding brass or a clanging cymbal.” (1 Corinthians 13:1).

Like Peter, if we desire a spiritual transformation [total makeover] of our heart, mind, and character, we commit daily to following Christ with love, surrender, faith, and obedience, always praying for wisdom, guidance, and strength.

Spiritual Growth Requires Human Effort and Divine Help! We were not created with the ability to change ourselves. Behavior Modification is the attempt to change by using human strategies and effort, but Spiritual Transformation can only occur when we are empowered daily by the Holy Spirit.

Human Effort: To follow Jesus requires a life of self-denial, renouncing sin, and agreeing to live as clean vessels with pure hearts. Spiritual transformation is a lifelong, daily spiritual process, which requires us to be in total agreement with the Holy Spirit.

Yes, the spiritual journey is tough! Yet, we have hope; eleven of Jesus’ twelve apostles were transformed [Judas had his own agenda, including betraying Christ].

Through prayer, we commit to actively participating in our Salvation. We must maintain the continual desire to be one of Jesus’ faithful disciples. Using self-control, when we resist our heart’s desires and Satan’s temptations, the Holy Spirit gives us the Divine strength to overcome.

To Be a Light Requires a Daily Battle With Self and Satan!

Reflection: Are we ready to use our faith and self-control, praying to be empowered with Jesus’ Strength when facing challenges and temptations?

Jesus revealed in His earthly life that He relied on the Divine Power of the Holy Spirit for strength to accomplish His daily goals and to say, No to temptation.

The Character of Christ: “But the fruit of the Spirit [the result of His presence within us] is love [unselfish concern for others], joy, [inner] peace, patience [not the ability to wait, but how we act while waiting], kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control. Against such things there is no law.” (Galatians 5:22-23, Amplified Bible).

How do we know we are growing spiritually?

Spiritual Growth is gradual, but consistently progressing, from the invisible spiritual, mental, and emotional changes to the visible physical changes.

Jesus’ Promise: “And I will give you a new heart, and I will put a new spirit in you. I will take out your stony, stubborn heart and give you a tender, responsive heart.” (Ezekiel 36:26, NLT).

From the moment we wake up, we have peace and joy from being filled with the Light of Jesus’ Love and Compassion—our presence, facial expressions, attitude, thoughts, spoken words, and actions reflect that we are “lights” in darkness.

The Holy Spirit, through daily Sanctification, changes us from the inside; we let go of worldly habits, clothing, and lifestyles that we used to enjoy; and the things that used to annoy and upset us, instead, we whisper a prayer or sing a song, praising God for His Faithfulness.

“The reason the world does not know us is that it did not know Him.” (1 John 3:1, NIV). To be a “light” requires continuous self-denial and steadfast faith, courage, and prayer. You will lose friends and family.

“We live in a world that hates God’s Truth, but that reality should not prevent us from sharing [God’s Love] in thoughtful, loving ways.”

As empty vessels, if we allow ourselves to be filled with the Light of Jesus’ Love and Compassion, serving as witnesses of God’s Steadfast Love, Grace, and Mercies, Jesus has this promise for you and me:

“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). Yes and Amen!

The Apostle Peter’s Guidance:

“Finally, all of you be of one mind, having compassion for one another; love as brothers [and sisters], be tenderhearted, be courteous;

not returning evil for evil or reviling for reviling, but on the contrary blessing, knowing that you were called to this, that you may inherit a blessing.

For the eyes of the Lord are on the righteous, And His ears are open to their prayers; But the face of the Lord is against those who do evil.” (1 Peter 3:8-9, 12).

Lord God, we thank You for choosing us to follow and represent Jesus Christ, who is the Light of the world. We pray for a spiritual makeover, one that represents a heart filled with Christ’s love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faith, and self-control. We desire for our minds and characters to be transformed into the likeness of Christ, revealing to the world that loving and following Jesus makes a difference in one’s life. We ask the Holy Spirit to guide us to those who desperately need to know that Jesus loves them. We also pray for wisdom, guidance, and the power and presence of the Holy Spirit. In faith, we ask this prayer in the Loving and Righteous Name of Jesus Christ. Amen.

Are You Growing In Spiritual Knowledge And Wisdom?

“‘Call to Me and I will answer you, and tell you [and even show you] great and mighty things, [things which have been hidden], which you do not know and understand and cannot distinguish.'” (Jeremiah 33:3, Amplified Bible)

Through daily surrender, prayer, and studying the Holy Bible, we invite the Holy Spirit to give us knowledge, wisdom, guidance, and the One and Only interpretation of God’s Truth in the Scriptures.

“See how very much our Father loves us, for He calls us His children, and that is what we are! But the people who belong to this world don’t recognize that we are God’s children because they don’t know Him.” (1 John 3:1, NLT).

The Bible is God’s Love Letters, written for every Christian believer. Because we inherited sinful hearts [Jeremiah 17:9], it is easier for us to follow our desires, leading us into disobedience against God.

Every day, we must choose to do what is right according to God’s Righteous Principles. The test of our love and loyalty for Jesus is one that we cannot pass without being empowered with our Shepherd’s Divine Wisdom and Strength.

“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).

God gifted us with the Spiritual Fruit of self-control, but we must pray, asking for the spiritual wisdom and discernment to recognize sin, and the strength to say, No.

In Ephesians chapter 6, we learn that we are in a spiritual battle, requiring us to continuously overcome our heart’s desires and Satan’s temptations.

Still, we are not helpless! Satan can never force us to sin against God. We decide to embrace or to renounce sin. We have the power to be loyal to God by proclaiming, “No, I will not sin against God.”

“For my thoughts are not your thoughts,
neither are your ways My ways,’ declares the Lord. As the heavens are higher than the earth, so are My ways higher than your ways
and My thoughts than your thoughts.” (Isaiah 55:8-9).

The Bible also serves as our Spiritual Map. We were created with limitations, including the inability to see beyond the moment, we are living in.

God’s Words of Warning: “Do not be wise in your own eyes.” In Proverbs 3: 5-7, God tells us not to trust our own thoughts or follow human wisdom.

We are blessed to have the Holy Spirit who convicts us through our conscience when we are considering choices that separate us from God.

Recently, I had a “Come to Jesus” experience. While preparing for personal worship, the Holy Spirit convicted me of only sporadically praying for God’s Guidance. I quickly came to my spiritual senses, asking myself, What were you thinking? How can I know more than God?

When we separate ourselves to pray and meditate on God’s Love, Saving Grace, Mercies, and His Sovereign Authority and Power, the Holy Spirit opens our minds to understand the magnitude of our disobedience against God.

“Therefore see that you walk carefully [living life with honor, purpose, and courage; shunning those who tolerate and enable evil], not as the unwise, but as wise [sensible, intelligent, discerning people]…”

16 “making the very most of your time [on earth, recognizing and taking advantage of each opportunity and using it with wisdom and diligence], because the days are [filled with] evil.” (Ephesians 5:15-16).

Do not trust your salvation to anyone else! Do not believe the enemy’s lie that you do not have to pray and study the Bible!

Praying, Studying the Scriptures, and Obeying God is the way Jesus intentionally lived. Christ always prayed for spiritual wisdom, discernment, and the strength to overcome temptations.

The Apostle Paul was given the Spiritual Assignment of starting the early churches.

Since most of the converts were from pagan backgrounds, they required the knowledge to let go of former hatred for others, lustful desires, and idol worshipping practices.

The Holy Spirit empowered Paul with the knowledge to teach and guide the new believers in letting go of their sinful habits and lifestyles.

The Epistles [Books] of the Bible that Paul wrote are not only letters to the members of the Early Churches, his writings are still relevant for today’s Christian believers, who have the same unrighteous behaviors and temptations to overcome.

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

The Holy Spirit is our Teacher. Through daily personal worship [Prayer and Bible Study], with faithful obedience, we surrender to Christ, inviting the Holy Spirit to give us the Spiritual Knowledge and Wisdom that we need to navigate in this sinful and evil environment that we live in.

“All Scripture is God-breathed [given by Divine inspiration] and is profitable for instruction, for conviction [of sin], for correction [of error and restoration to obedience], for training in righteousness [learning to live in conformity to God’s will, both publicly and privately—behaving honorably with personal integrity and moral courage]” (2 Timothy 3:16, Amplified Bible).

God teaches us His expectations and how to live holy through the Scriptures.

The Bible teaches us about God’s Loving Character, the Creation, the history of God’s Divine Help, and the life of suffering that our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, endured to complete the Plan of Redemption, required to save us from the wages of sin [Romans 6:23].

God’s Holy Word has separated the Christian Community into two groups of believers:

Those who study and obey the Scriptures will remain faithful and steadfast, because they invite the Holy Spirit to empower them with the highest level of Spiritual Knowledge and Wisdom; And those who refuse to study the Bible, who will continue to live a life of compromise, following their thoughts and living as they please.

God’s Grace and Mercy: “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).

Everyday, we have the opportunity to choose Eternal Life by renouncing sin, and dedicating ourselves to follow and obey Jesus through continuous prayer, and the study of the Word of God.

Bible Study: The Book of Philippians

Lord God, we come to You with humility, asking for the forgiveness of wilful disobedience. We have come to our senses, realizing that You demonstrated Your Love for us, by giving Your Only Son, Jesus Christ, who suffered, bled, and died on Calvary’s Cross. We know that the next time Jesus comes, He will come as the Triumphant KING OF KINGS and LORD OF LORDS. Today, we commit ourselves with faith and surrender to follow Jesus Christ, our Savior and Shepherd. And we also ask for the Holy Spirit to empower us with wisdom and understanding, as we seek knowledge in Your Holy Word. In faith, we ask this prayer in the Loving and Righteous Name of Jesus Christ, Amen.

Follow Jesus – Your Life Will End In Triumph!

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

A pastor shared this testimony: When I was 15 years old, my church hosted a mountain hike for the community and it was a great turnout. The guides reviewed the rules with everyone, and we agreed to follow our guides and the rules.

But as we walked along the trail, everyone was excited, except for me. I had hiked this mountain with my dad, and knew the trail, so I became bored. I listened to my feelings, and decided to deviate from the trail.

The thought of exploring new territory made me excited, but as the group kept walking, I waited by a tree for five minutes to see if anyone missed me, but no one called my name, so I decided to keep moving forward.

Yes, I knew the rules, if you’re navigating an unknown path, you mark the trees, which will guide you on the return trip. But with overconfidence, I told myself, you don’t need to do that, you have an excellent memory.

After walking for about 10 minutes, I decided to return to the group. Being alone, and no one knowing where you are did not bring the excitement that I anticipated, but when I turned around, I became disoriented.

All the trees were identical and I knew there weren’t any straight paths on a mountain. Still, I reassured myself that I could get back, so I just started walking forward, hoping to see the familiar trail. But after walking for what seemed to be forever, I realized that I was lost.

Immediately I reached for my cell phone, but there was no signal. I can still remember the fear and panic consuming my mind, and my body reacted. My heart began to beat faster and I started hyperventilating, at that point, I knew that if someone didn’t find me, I would die.

Because my heart was filled with pride, I thought, If I call out for help, others will laugh at me, knowing that I was raised in this area, and still got lost, so I suppressed the desire to call out.

But as my vision became blurred from the tears of fear, I realized that I needed God’s help. I prayed, confessing that I had been disobedient, and I begged God to show me how to get back to the trail.

My legs felt weak, but the Holy Spirit reminded me of Jesus’ Promise: “I will never leave you or forsake you;” peace replaced the fear in my mind, and step by step, I slowly moved forward.

The Holy Spirit gave me the courage and wisdom to walk through the unknown. God revealed His Never-Changing Love, Mercy, and Faithfulness: Although at least 20 minutes had passed, when I returned to the trail, I was right behind the crowd of hikers.

No one knew that I was missing, except for my Shepherd, Jesus Christ. I never shared this experience until I became an adult because it was only then that I fully understood the love of Jesus Christ.

The Decision To Follow Jesus Christ

Jesus had just performed the miracle of healing the paralytic: “Now when the multitude saw it, they marveled and glorified God, who had given such power to men.” (Matthew 9:8)

Matthew’s Decision To Follow Jesus: “As Jesus went on from there, He saw a man named Matthew sitting at the tax collector’s booth. ‘Follow me,’ He told him, and Matthew got up and followed him.” (Matthew 9:9, NIV).

Can you remember the joy and excitement that was in your heart when you said, “Yes, I repent of my sins and accept Jesus as my Savior?”

Do you still have the joy, happiness, and peace that comes from following Jesus?

“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).

If you are navigating through life following your own thoughts and strategies, repent and renew your commitment with Jesus Christ to be His Forever Follower.

“I am the good shepherd; I know my sheep and my sheep know me—My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, and they follow me. I give them eternal life, and they shall never perish; no one will snatch them out of my hand.” (John 10:14, 27-28).

To Follow Jesus, Surrender, Repent, Forget the Past, and Keep Moving Forward

Every day, use your faith to pray and ask for God’s guidance before making plans and decisions. Make the commitment to following Jesus on the Narrow Path, wherever He leads you. No, it will not be easy, but Jesus promises:

“I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will counsel you with my loving eye on you.” (Psalm 32:8, NIV). Yes and Amen!

Lord God, we are following the prideful thoughts of our hearts. And today, we come to You in humility, with repentance, asking for the forgiveness for the sin of disobedience. Although we have been like sheep, who stopped listening to their Shepherd’s Voice, following the Wide Path, You continued to search for us. Thank You for loving and protecting us. Jesus, You are our Shepherd, we love You, and commit to following You with faithful obedience. In faith, we ask this prayer in the Loving and Righteous Name of Jesus Christ, Amen.

Practical Messages For Impractical Times

The Narrow Path Is Difficult, But Eternal Life Is the Reward

“Enter by the narrow gate; for wide is the gate and broad is the way that leads to destruction, and there are many who go in by it. Because narrow is the gate and difficult is the way which leads to life, and there are few who find it.” (Matthew 7:13-14).

The Wide Gate: “This path is easy and popular. It’s the path of least resistance—living for worldly pleasures, self-promotion, and following the crowd. But it leads to destruction.”

The Narrow Gate: “This Path is difficult. It requires faith and trusting God’s Plans, daily personal sacrifice, humility, and obedience to God’s Will. It demands commitment and denying our desires, Jesus tells us that only a few choose it.”

As I reflected on the daily struggle required to stay on the Narrow Path, the Holy Spirit reminded me of John 3:16 and John 14:1-3.

“For God so loved the world that He gave His One and Only Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life.” (John 3:16, NIV).

God, the Father and God, Jesus, the Son are Omniscient, so they knew that Adam and Eve would disobey before Jesus created them. Still, Jesus said, Father, I will give my life to redeem humanity from certain death, the consequence of sin [Romans 6:23].

“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).

Yes, the Narrow Path requires us to say, No when our family and friends are inviting us to have fun and fulfill our desires, because you only live once.

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

But deep within our hearts, we love our Shepherd, and we will continue our faith journey of being led and guided by the Holy Spirit, who tells us, “Whether you turn to the right or to the left, your ears will hear a voice behind you, saying, ‘This is the way; walk in it.'” (Isaiah 40:31, NIV).

Jesus’ Promises to His Faithful Sheep

“Let not your heart be troubled; you believe in God, believe also in Me. 2 In My Father’s house are many mansions; if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. 3 And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and receive you to Myself; that where I am, there you may be also.” (John 14:1-3).

“To him who overcomes I will grant to sit with Me on My throne, as I also overcame and sat down with My Father on His throne.” (Revelation 3:21). Yes and Amen!

Lord God, we love You and we are grateful for the Love Gift of Jesus Christ, Your Only Son. And Jesus, we love You, and appreciate the Love Gift of Your Life, which gives us Redemption, Grace, and Mercy. In faith, we will continue to follow You on the Narrow Path. Jesus, we know that we cannot follow You, using our thoughts and strength, so, we humbly ask You to please be our Strength. As we celebrate Your Holy Sabbath, we pray for all believers that they will decide to follow You with total surrender and faithful obedience. In faith, we ask this prayer in the Loving and Righteous Name of Jesus Christ, Amen.

Still Waiting On God To Answer Your Prayers?

“You have not because you do not ask” is a Scripture that many of us have memorized. With expectation that God will say, Yes, we eagerly pray, asking God for the things that will make us happy.

“And whatever you ask in My name, that I will do, that the Father may be glorified in the Son.” (John 14:13).

The Condition: We will only receive a “Yes” from Jesus, [our Heavenly Intercessor, who receives all prayers], if we ask for things that glorify God, the Father.

God, the Father’s Priorities For Every Believer

Our necessities of life; a relationship with Jesus; renouncing sin; daily spiritual growth; and the transformation of our character into the likeness of Christ’s Righteous Character, required to receive Eternal Life are God, the Father’s Plans for every faithful believer.

In Matthew chapter 6, Jesus promises to give us all of our necessities of life:

“Therefore I say to you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or what you will drink; nor about your body, what you will put on. Is not life more than food and the body more than clothing?” (Verse 25).

“Therefore do not worry, saying, ‘What shall we eat?’ or ‘What shall we drink?’ or ‘What shall we wear?’ For after all these things the Gentiles [unbelievers] seek. For your heavenly Father knows that you need all these things.” (Verses 31-32).

God Is Yahweh Yireh: “Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows.” (James 1:17).

Spiritual Healing: “He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds.” (Psalm 147:3).

God promises to heal us from mental disorders and emotional trauma because those conditions prevent spiritual growth and transformation.

“The book of James contains a lot of practical instruction for how Christians should live their lives. The Apostle wrote to believers who seemed to have quite a few problems with their [desires] and behavior.”

Reflection: How are we spending our money and our time? Do our habits reflect that we recognize that time and money are blessings and gracious gifts from God?

Stewardship is properly managing our resources that God has given to us. Conservative management reveals that our heart is filled with gratitude and we use our ability to practice the discipline of self-control.

God Answers Our Question: “Why hasn’t God answered my prayer?”

God’s Reasons For Unanswered Prayers

#1: “You ask [God for something] and do not receive it, because you ask with wrong motives [out of selfishness or with an unrighteous agenda], so that [when you get what you want] you may spend it on your desires.” (James 4:3, Amplified Bible).

In this Scripture, James specifies selfish desires as one of God’s reasons for denying our requests.

#2: “Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth…For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” (Matthew 6:19, 21).

Although, not every prayer is a request for money, our focus is on material possessions; a car, house, or a better job, a husband or wife, and many other specific desires.

#3: “But I, the LORD, search all hearts and examine secret motives. I give all people their due rewards, according to what their actions deserve.” (Jeremiah 17:10, NLT).

God knows the hidden secrets of our hearts that reveal our true characters and personalities. Will we value the gift instead of The Giver?

#4: Self-reliance Instead of Faithful Obedience: “Why do you call me ‘Lord, Lord,’ and not do what I tell you?” (Luke 6:46).

Reflection: Ask yourself, What is my relationship like with Jesus Christ? Do I use my faith to surrender and let go of my desires, asking God to reveal His plans for the new day?

Recap of God’s Priorities: Revealing His Plans For Your Life, Meeting Our Spiritual and Physical Needs, and Rewarding Faithful Believers With Eternal Life

“For My thoughts are not your thoughts, Nor are your ways My ways,’ says the Lord. ‘For as the heavens are higher than the earth,
So are My ways higher than your ways,
And My thoughts than your thoughts.'” (Isaiah 55:8-9, NKJV).

“So is My word that goes out from My mouth: It will not return to Me empty, but will accomplish what I desire and achieve the purpose for which I sent it.” (Isaiah 55:11, NIV).

God gifted His only Son, Jesus to redeem us from the consequences of sin and to reward the faithful with Eternal Life in the New Heaven and New Earth.

Have we aligned our desires with God’s desire to save our soul? Yes, we were created with free will of choice, yet, we are required to acquiesce to God’s Sovereign Authority.

“Your life should be free from the love of money. Be satisfied with what you have, for He Himself has said, I will never leave you or forsake you.” (Hebrews 13:5).

Every day, our desires, decisions, and lifestyles reveal whether or not, we are faithfully following Christ, Our Savior and Shepherd on the Narrow Path of Righteousness.

In John 16:33, Jesus tells us that our Spiritual Journey will be a tough journey, but for us to be courageous, because He will give us the strength to overcome our challenges.

“Then Jesus said, ‘Come to me, all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest.'” (Matthew 11:28, NLT).

To establish and maintain our relationship with Jesus, the focus of our daily prayers should be spiritual, asking God to increase our faith, teach us humility, and to empower us with wisdom, courage, and strength.

“Ask, then; ask, and you shall receive. To every sincere prayer an answer will come. It may not come just as you desire, or at the time you look for it; but it will come in the way and at the time that will best meet your needs.”

“The prayers you offer…God answers, not always according to your expectations, but always for your good.”

“One day Jesus was praying in a certain place. When He finished, one of His disciples said to Him, ‘Lord, teach us to pray, just as John taught his disciples.'” (Luke 11:1, NIV).

Lord God, we thank you for life, health, strength, and our daily provisions. Lord, teach us how to pray. We struggle with prioritizing our spiritual needs over our desires. We know that Your ways are perfect. And we ask You to teach us how to live a life of self-denial, which is necessary to prepare for Eternal Life. In faith, we ask this prayer in the Loving and Righteous Name of Jesus Christ, Amen.

We Are Proof That Jesus Makes A Difference In Our Lives

Jesus Christ Is The Foundation of Christianity and Our Faith: “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).

When Jesus knocked at the door of our hearts, we accepted Him as Lord and Savior, and we were adopted into the family of God as His Sons and Daughters.

“Beloved, if God so loved us, we also ought to love one another.” (1 John 4:11).

Our spiritual responsibilities include loving God; loving others, including our enemies; and witnessing to the world that accepting Jesus makes a difference in our lives.

Yes, every believer has the responsibility to represent God’s Love and Jesus’ Saving Grace to the world.

A smile, kind words, being patient, helping others, and telling someone, Jesus, loves you reveals our heart to heart connection with Jesus, giving hope to those who are blind from living in a spiritually dark world.

“You are the light of the world. Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven.” (Matthew 5:14, 16).

“The Meaning: We are commanded to live an active, visible faith through love, compassion, and kindness so that our actions represent Christ’s love.”

“As lights of the world, we live this out by practicing daily acts of generosity, patience, forgiveness, and helping those in need.”

Being Lights of the World Requires Courage

“For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind.” (2 Timothy 1:7). Every human being is gifted with the ability to love God, love others, and to love themselves.

God Is Love: Love Is The Greatest Gift

“And though I have the gift of prophecy, and understand all mysteries and all knowledge, and though I have all faith, so that I could remove mountains, but have not love, I am nothing.” (1 Corinthians 13:2).

“When love fills the heart, it will flow out to others…Love modifies the character, governs the impulses, subdues enmity, and ennobles the affections. This love is as broad as the universe, and is in harmony with that of the angels.”

“[God’s Love] cherished in the heart, sweetens the entire life and sheds its blessing upon all around.” It is His love, and only His love that can make us the lights who reflect His Divine Light.

When our hearts are converted by the Holy Spirit, we easily manifest God’s Love, Grace, and Mercy, because Christ’s Love and Righteousness spiritually transforms our hearts [minds], characters, and personalities.

The Challenge: “Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind… .” (Romans 12:2).

Because we inherited sinful hearts, Pride naturally exists within us. Without the transforming and sustaining Power of the Holy Spirit, we will manifest:

Self-Reliance, Individualism, selfishness, the lack of love and compassion, and diminished ethics, morals, and values. Human effort alone cannot stop these sinful behaviors from easily taking root and growing in our hearts.

“For what will a man give in exchange for his soul and eternal life [in God’s kingdom]?” (Mark 8:37, Amplified Bible).

The Challenge: Overcoming the temptations of the acquisition of wealth, success, secular pleasure, and relationships with unbelievers, who the enemy uses to weaken our faith and self-control.

Embracing and Relying on Jesus’ Powerful Strength: “Finally, be strong in the Lord and in His mighty power. Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes.” (Ephesians 6:10-11, NIV).

Overcoming Through Separation, Solitude, and Silence

Daily Personal Worship [Prayer and Bible Study] Keeps Us Connected to Christ: Every morning and evening, we set uninterrupted time [eliminating all distractions] to “Armor Up.”

“Remain in me, as I also remain in you. No branch can bear fruit by itself; it must remain in the vine. Neither can you bear fruit unless you remain in Me.” (John 15:4, NIV).

Loving God motivates us to stay connected to Jesus Christ. Daily Surrender, Prayer and Bible Study invites the Holy Spirit to give us the Spiritual Reinforcements of wisdom, discernment, and strength.

“Pray continuously.” (1 Thessalonians 5:17).

Throughout our day, if we mentally whisper silent prayers for Divine Guidance and Strength, the Holy Spirit pours Christ’s Wisdom and Strength into our minds and bodies.

It is impossible for Satan to deceive us into embracing his temptations when we stay connected to Christ.

Consistent worship invites the Holy Spirit to transform our minds, characters, and personalities into the likeness of Christ’s Righteous Character and empower us with Jesus’ Divine Strength to mature into loving, peaceful Sons and Daughters of God.

“I will give you a new heart and put a new spirit within you; I will take the heart of stone out of your flesh and give you a heart of flesh.” (Ezekiel 36:26).

Despite the impact that sin has on our hearts, from accepting Christ as our personal Savior, He cleanses our hearts, and gives us compassionate hearts that are responsive to His Voice and the needs of others.

“The object of God in choosing a people before all the world was not only that He might adopt them as His Sons and Daughters, but that through them the world might receive the Grace that brings salvation.”

“But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law.” (Galatians 5:22-23).

When life is busy and things are chaotic, our calm facial expression and undisturbed demeanor speaks louder than spoken words, revealing that we are connected to a Higher Power.

Yes, representing the Character of Christ invites the Holy Spirit to touch the hearts of those who watch us. Some will assume that we are practicing the learned behavior of military discipline, but there may be one or two, who wish deep within their hearts they could have our peace.

How do they know we are Christians? When we are connected to Christ, His Light shines through us. Even those who have not accepted Christ, also received the same spiritual gifts [2 Timothy 1:7] that we have.

The Mysterious Power of the Holy Spirit [Acts 2]

The individuals who paid attention, desiring peace, invite the Holy Spirit to speak to their hearts. Whether it is at that point, or later, they will receive the invitation to accept Jesus, who is the Only One that gives the joy, peace, and patience, we manifested.

Prayer Is Our Spiritual Lifeline to Jesus Christ, Our Heavenly Intercessor: Every day, we must fight the good fight of faith on our knees.

We always need to take the time to pray, meditate, and reflect deeply on the Life of Christ and His sacrificial gift on Calvary’s Cross. Only Jesus’ strength can empower us to rise above life’s continuous stressors and daily challenges.

Alone, in secret prayer, we talk to Christ as if He is our Best Friend, with honor, respect, and genuine words that express our consistent need for Him, and His spiritual blessings.

“Lord, today, keep me anchored by revealing Your plans for my life. Guide my words, actions, and decisions and give me the opportunity to reveal Your Love to others… .”

The foundation of this prayer reveals our willingness to surrender in faith to God’s Will and Plans and our desire to witness Jesus’ Everlasting Love.

“I have loved you with an everlasting love; Therefore with lovingkindness I have drawn you and continued My faithfulness to you.” (Jeremiah 31:3, Amplified Bible).

“Lord God, today, we ask for forgiveness of our sins. Thank you for sustaining our lives with spiritual and material blessings that we often take for granted. We surrender to follow and obey our Shepherd, Jesus Christ. Lord, keep us anchored by revealing Your Will for our lives, giving us the wisdom and strength to complete Your perfect plans. Guide us in our decisions and provide us with the opportunity to reveal Your Love to others. Lord, as your Sons and Daughters, we love You and bow to Your Sovereign Authority because You are our Holy Father. In faith, we ask this prayer in the Loving and Righteous Name of Jesus, Amen.

Praying For A Blessing?

The Blessing Is Jesus: “Come to Me, all who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.” (Matthew 11:28).

Often when we are facing challenges, obstacles, and adversity, we pray, asking God for the blessing of resolving our hardships. Yet what we usually mean is, “God, can You fix and remove this situation from my life right now?

In Matthew chapter 6, Jesus promises to provide us with the necessities of life: “So why do you worry about clothing? Therefore do not worry, saying, ‘What shall we eat?’ or ‘What shall we drink?’ or ‘What shall we wear?’ For after all these things the Gentiles seek. For your heavenly Father knows that you need all these things. But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you.” (Verses 28, 31-33).

Our prayer for the provisions of life is a simple prayer of faith and gratitude: Lord God, in Matthew 6, You promised to provide food and clothes for us and we thank You for hearing, answering, and providing for our family. In Jesus’ Holy Name, Amen.

“Wait on the LORD; Be of good courage, And He shall strengthen your heart; Wait, I say, on the LORD!” (Psalm 27:14).

I am a living witness that God always provides and He is always on time. We do not have to beg God for our necessities. Remain faithful, He is Yahweh Yireh. Yes and Amen!

Trials Build Our Faith and Trust in God and Develop Our Characters

“And after you have suffered a little while, the God of all grace, who has called you to His eternal glory in Christ, will Himself restore, confirm, strengthen, and establish you.” (1 Peter 5:10, ESV).

A pastor stated, “When experiencing tough times, God is more interested in changing your character than in your comfort.”

“Yahweh Ezer, meaning ‘The LORD Our Help’ or ‘The LORD My Helper.’ Psalm 33:20, identifies God as our strength and shield.”

When we are experiencing trials, our prayers should reflect faith and trust in Jesus’ promise to help us. Although we cannot ask God how to help us, we can ask Jesus for the blessing of specific spiritual gifts.

God’s first priority with gifting blessings was to give us Jesus, His only Son. Yes, God, the Father has given us our greatest Spiritual Blessing, Jesus, Who is our Savior, Redeemer, Intercessor, Helper, and Mediator between God and humanity.

“Every good thing given and every perfect gift is from above; it comes down from the Father of lights [the Creator and Sustainer of the heavens], in whom there is no variation or shadow cast…”[for He is perfect and never changes]. (James 1:17, Amplified Bible).

And from Jesus, The Giver of all Good Gifts, we receive [without limits] His supernatural strength, which empowers us to persevere and keep moving forward. Jesus also gives us the additional blessings of comfort, peace, joy, and contentment, which reveal His immense love for us.

“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).

Jesus has given us an open invitation to pray, ask, wait, and we will receive, with the condition that are requests bring honor and glory to God, the Father’s Holy Name. Pray, Wait, and Obey.

And to prevent us from feeling hopeless and helpless, we use our faith to stay connected to Jesus through much prayer [Pray continuously. 1 Thessalonians 5:17].

Our prayers should always include loving words of gratitude for God’s loving kindness and faithfulness. In the struggle, our faith is tested during the wait. Do not give up, and do not follow your thoughts.

“Rejoice in hope, be patient in tribulation, be constant in prayer.” (Romans 12:12). Believing that we are forever loved by God and He will deliver us, gives us courage, and keeps us anchored in Jesus Christ.

From embracing Jesus, God, the Son as our greatest blessing from God, the Father invites the Holy Spirit to strengthen our faith, and we can witness to others the Love, Faithfulness, and Power of Jesus Christ.

“Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 4:6-7, ESV).

Lord God, we offer this prayer of gratitude, thanking You for Your love, faithfulness, and the gift of your Precious Son, Jesus Christ, who is humanity’s Greatest Blessing. We also ask this prayer as an Intercessory prayer. Lord, we ask You to supply food, housing, and clothing to those who are striving to serve You, but cannot provide for themselves for reasons that You are aware of, and we, Thank You for those provisions. As we enter the Holy hours of the Sabbath, we pray for the Spiritual blessings of Your Living Water, and ask You to feed us with the Bread of Life. Lord, we also ask You for knowledge, wisdom, and the strength to persevere in our walk with Jesus. In faith, and with gratitude, we ask this prayer in the Loving and Holy Name of Jesus Christ, Amen.

The Believer’s Identity: We Are Sons and Daughters, Heirs of The Living God

“And God said, Let us make man in our image, according to our likeness…” (Genesis 1:26). This conversation between God, the Father, and God, Jesus, His Son, reveals the Christian believer’s identity.

In John chapter 17, Jesus prays for Himself, His twelve disciples, and His future disciples, which included everyone who accepts Christ as their personal Savior.

“As Jesus went on from there, He saw a man called Matthew, sitting in the tax collector’s booth; and He said to him, ‘Follow Me!’ And he got up and followed Him.” (Matthew 9:9, NASB).

Matthew’s silence and his decision to abandon his corrupt job and lifestyle revealed that deep within his heart, he desired to give up sinful habits and follow Jesus Christ on an unknown spiritual journey.

Reflection: Do we perceive ourselves as committed disciples who desire to follow Christ with love, loyalty, and obedience?”

“Do you not know that you are the temple of God, and that the Spirit of God lives in you?” (1 Corinthians 3:16). Yet for the Holy Spirit to live in us, we must fulfill God’s Spiritual Qualifier: “Be holy, for I AM Holy.” (1 Peter 1:16). How does holiness affect the minds and lives of true believers?

Can you imagine being invited to an event requiring formal evening wear, only to hear in the closing remarks an invitation to play volleyball in your finest clothing? As absurd as this sounds, many believers accept Christ as their personal Savior, but engage in the world’s sinful, filthy habits.

“Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God.” (Matthew 5:8). To be clothed with Christ’s Righteousness, we must renounce sinful thoughts, habits, behaviors, and spoken words, and live a Christ-centered, Faith-based life of daily surrender and obedience.

Since we cannot live holy without Divine Power, through daily personal worship, we establish a heart-to-heart relationship with Jesus Christ, and the Holy Spirit begins the lifelong process of Spiritual growth and transformation. “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” (Philippians 4:13).

Every day, our priority is to renew our spiritual commitment to follow Christ, which connects us to our Shepherd and reinforces our status as Sons and Daughters of God. We ask God to reveal His plans for the new day, and the Holy Spirit instructs and gives us guidance on fulfilling God’s Will.

Yes, God knows that we have jobs and the routine duties of life to take care of, yet we are commanded to put God first. Time Management is God’s Specialty. With His guidance, we can accomplish our daily tasks and still have time and energy to fulfill our spiritual assignments.

The Challenge of Remaining Faithful and Obedient to God, Our Father

“But why do you call Me ‘Lord, Lord,’ and not do the things which I say?” (Luke 6:46). As Sons and Daughters of God, we have a spiritual requirement to always obey God. We honor God’s Sovereign Authority through faithful obedience because He is God, our Father, who loves us, and we love Him because we are His heirs.

“LORD, I know that people’s lives are not their own; it is not for them to direct their steps.” (Jeremiah 10:23, NIV). Always pray for Divine guidance before making decisions. Although the challenge can appear insignificant, following our thoughts and solutions is disobedience to God, “I say, ‘My purpose will stand.'” (Isaiah 46:10).

When we love and honor God, how can we justify playing the Game of Chance by trying to resolve our challenges, which can result in escalation and consequences that we can avoid by asking God for the answers?

“For as the heavens are higher than the earth, So are My ways higher than your ways, And My thoughts than your thoughts.” (Isaiah 55:9). God is always faithful! Each new day brings unknown obstacles, temptations, and dangers that only our Protective Heavenly Father knows and can resolve.

Pray, Wait for God’s Answer, and Obey: Dependency on God is not a burden when we desire to follow Christ with love, loyalty, and faithful obedience. Obedience is the worship that keeps us aligned with God’s Will because God’s Intervention always ends in Victory!

“Be alert and of sober mind. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour.” (1 Peter 5:8, NIV). Without Christ, we are no match for Satan. Praying for Spiritual Guidance keeps us aligned with God’s plans and invites Jesus, our Mighty Warrior, to send angels to intervene when we face daily unknown obstacles, temptations, and dangers.

“See what great love the Father has lavished on us, that we should be called children of God! And that is what we are!” (1 John 3:1, NIV).

As children of God, we maintain our spiritual connection with Christ through Prayer and Bible Study. Every day, we pray for God’s Will to be revealed, relying on the Holy Spirit to instruct us in our Heavenly Father’s plans for each new day.

In John chapter 10, Jesus tells a parable of the loving and tender relationship between a shepherd and his sheep: “My sheep hear My voice, and I know them, and they follow Me.” (John 10:27). “But they will never follow a stranger; in fact, they will run away from him because they do not recognize a stranger’s voice.” (John 10:5, NIV).

Not only are we bombarded by the world’s voices, promising that if we follow their suggestions, our lives will improve and we will live peaceful and contented lives, but we must also fight against thinking our own thoughts [Proverbs 3:5-7] and Satan’s temptations.

Let go of self-reliance! To avoid embracing Satan’s schemes, we must do as Jesus did in His earthly life; Jesus prayed continuously. Whisper prayers at work and throughout the day and night. Always pray for Spiritual Wisdom and Discernment, and the Holy Spirit will empower you with spiritual insight and guide your steps.

Loving God and Following Christ With Surrender Is A Daily Choice

In Matthew 22:37, Jesus reiterates the command given in the Old Testament to love God with immense love: “And you shall love the LORD your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength.” (Deuteronomy 6:5).

When we love God with our all, we will not hesitate to pray and obey our Heavenly Father, who loves us and desires to give us our best lives, including the reward of Eternal Life. Yet, we were created with free will, and we must choose to obey God, which reveals the true condition of our hearts.

Many believers have their own agendas, plans, and goals, never considering that we must love and obey God by following Christ, our Shepherd. Sadly, if we refuse to surrender, then we have chosen to disinherit ourselves as Sons and Daughters of God, for which there is no reward, except the life we are living now.

“I the Lord search the heart and test the mind.” (Jeremiah 17:9, ESV). “For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” (Matthew 6:21, ESV). Since it is impossible to hide secrets from God, He knows who genuinely loves Him and desires to surrender and obey His Will and Perfect Plans.

“Jesus answered, ‘I am the Way and the Truth and the Life. No one comes to the Father except through me.'” (John 14:6, NIV). When we love God, we strive to follow our Shepherd, Jesus Christ, with faithful obedience. Jesus tells us that He is the Living Water and the Bread of Life, and that we should seek Him daily through Prayer and Bible Study.

“We love Him because He first loved us.” (1 John 4:19). As Sons and Daughters of God, accepting our spiritual identity is the catalyst for making definitive changes. We no longer participate in worldly habits and behaviors, and our thoughts and spoken words reveal God’s Love.

Using our faith to trust and obey our Heavenly Father, we cooperate with the Holy Spirit, who performs the lifelong, daily spiritual process of Sanctification—Spiritual growth and transformation into the Righteousness of Christ.

By studying the Holy Scriptures, we learn Christ’s Character and how to live righteously. Prayer invites God, the Holy Spirit, who is the Spirit of Truth and our Teacher, to give us spiritual wisdom and discernment of God’s One and Only Truth, instructs us on how to recognize Jesus’ Guiding Voice, and empowers us to stay on the Narrow Path of Righteousness.

God Speaks With a Quiet and Peaceful Voice: The Holy Spirit conveys God’s messages through our thoughts and the Holy Scriptures. God meets us where we are spiritually; His instructions are clear and concise, so that even a child can understand.

John 16:13: “When the Spirit of Truth comes, He will guide you into all the truth…” (The Holy Spirit reveals truth and direction). We recognize the difference between human thoughts and God’s higher thoughts and ways, because His instructions always glorify and honor His Holy Name.

From eliminating distractions and putting God First, we will see ourselves through spiritual eyes as Sons and Daughters of the Most-High God. Jesus, our Savior and Triumphant King, is preparing us [through the Holy Spirit] to receive the Eternal Reward of our Forever Home in the New Heaven and New Earth with Abba, God, our Father, and Jesus, our Triumphant King. Hallelujah! Yes and Amen!

“I say then: Walk in the Spirit, and you shall not fulfill the lust of the flesh…those who practice such things will not inherit the kingdom of God. But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, 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. If we live in the Spirit, let us also walk in the Spirit.” (Galatians 5:16, 21-25).

Lord God, with surrender, we acknowledge that we are the temple of the Living God, in which the Holy Spirit resides. Today, we accept our identity as Your Sons and Daughters, with the commitment to strive every day for righteousness by not embracing the darkness of worldviews or following the path of self-gratification. Lord, it is only through your strength that we can remain faithful, and today, we ask for Your Strength. In faith, we ask this prayer in the Powerful Name of Jesus Christ, Amen.

Let Your Words Be Seasoned With Salt, Representing Christ

We live in tense times, where emotions easily escalate. Yet as followers of Christ, every thought and every spoken word must reflect God’s Love and Grace.

The following Devotional Video is Bible-based and encouraging.

Growing Closer to Christ – Striving For The Best Spiritual Health

“Beloved, I pray that you may prosper in all things and be in health, just as your soul prospers.” (3 John 1:2)

Strive For The Best Spiritual Health: Christ created us to live in harmony with God’s Laws of Health. Our mental, emotional, and physical health impacts our spiritual relationship with Jesus Christ.

“And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God.” (Romans 12:2).

The concept “We are what we eat” is a reality, yet healthy intake extends beyond nutrients [food]. Every day, we use our Five Senses [sight, hearing, smell, taste, and touch] to either build or tear down our Spiritual Health.

Satan entices us by appealing to our Senses; still, it is our hearts’ desires that propel us to say yes to temptation. “The mind influences the body and the body influences the mind.” We are shaped by what we watch, listen to, the habits we practice, and the people in our inner circle of family and friends.

God’s Standard for Believers: “Be holy, for I am Holy.” (1 Peter 1:16).

Because we live in a time when Satan has used digital and virtual platforms to covertly present compromising entertainment, many Christians are being deceived and engaging in sinful activities.

For example, I prefer playing logic games, so I chose one that had good reviews. All was well until it wasn’t. As I advanced to higher levels, I noticed an unusual number of words related to the occult, mythology, and criminal activity. And the Ads progressed from family appropriate to covert but suggestive immorality.

Although I diligently pray and study the Bible every day, I was focused on the game, which was challenging, and I had achieved a high score; I gradually became desensitized to the content. I thought, “It’s only a game, I don’t believe in those false teachings.”

Yahweh Nissi—Jesus Christ, Our Mighty Warrior Against Satan’s Deceptions

“I will instruct you and teach you the way you should go; I will give you counsel and watch over you.” (Psalm 32:8, BSB).

Jesus loves and protects those who love Him. On the day I dismissed the game’s promotion of false teachings, during evening worship, the Holy Spirit spoke to me, “Do not love the things of this world.” And yes, I knew that I had a decision to make: Obey God and let go of the game, or continue in disobedience.

“Do not love this world nor the things it offers you, for when you love the world, you do not have the love of the Father in you.” (1 John 2:15, NLT).

In 2026, Blended Christianity, the integration of “soft” worldly activities, has been accepted and is being practiced by many believers:

Hanging out with people who acknowledge that God exists, but do not serve Him, watching programming and playing games with violence, sexual content, or gambling, listening to secular music [Rock, Jazz, R&B, etc.], taking sleep gummies, recreational drugs, alcoholic drinks, using profanity, and the list is endless.

“Moral perfection is required of all believers. We should never lower the standard of Righteousness in order to satisfy our desires. We need to understand that nurturing character imperfections is wilfully sinning against God.”

Christ Is Our Righteous Standard and Role Model

“I say then: Walk in the Spirit, and you shall not fulfill the lust of the flesh. For the flesh lusts against the Spirit, and the Spirit against the flesh; and these are contrary to one another, so that you do not do the things that you wish.” (Galatians 5:16-17).

If unbelievers love and promote the activities, then we know they are not of God. Aggressive sports [hands-on contact], animal fights, parties with secular music, alcoholic beverages, and recreational use of marijuana, legal or not, are activities that will prevent us from receiving Eternal Life.

“For what will it profit a man if he gains the whole world, and loses his own soul?” (Mark 8:36). We may not agree, but Jesus loved us unconditionally, paying with His life to save our souls. We cannot afford to let this Earth’s temporary trinkets corrupt our minds, making us apathetic toward receiving our Crown of Life.

The habits and lifestyles that we practice now either allow the Holy Spirit to transform us [Sanctification] to live righteously forever in a loving and peaceful New Heaven and New Earth with God, or they do not.

Every aspect of our being, our thoughts, choices, activities, and friends must reflect God’s Holiness. And yes, it is a tough decision, but we cannot justify socializing with unbelieving family members. It is always the Christian who must compromise when they choose friends who do not follow Christ.

We must ask ourselves, Does this activity or individual represent the Righteousness of Christ? Pray before embracing fun and relaxing activities, and let God choose your friends.

Reflection: We cannot judge ourselves. Our lifestyle reveals if we are following Christ on the Narrow Path of Righteousness. Still, we should pray and ask God, “Does my heart and lifestyle represent the Righteousness of Christ?

“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 ask You to reveal the habits, activities, friends, and family members who are preventing us from living holy and receiving our reward of Eternal Life. We ask You to cleanse us from all unrighteousness and to create a pure heart within us. As we honor Your Holy Sabbath, Lord, we ask for Your guidance, wisdom, and strength as we strive to live righteously. In faith, we ask this prayer in Jesus’ Loving and Righteous Name, Amen.