Faith Love Trust Obedience – Steps 2 Success with Spiritual Solutions

The Walk of Faith Is A Lifelong Journey

“Many are the plans in the mind of a man, but it is the purpose of the Lord that will stand.” (Proverbs 19:21).

Praying for God’s direction before making decisions reveals if our faith and trust is in God’s Faithfulness and His Promises.

Last week, I had a conversation with the maintenance supervisor in our complex and he shared with me that he is teaching his 9-year-old daughter to think carefully and slowly about the decisions that she makes.

Every decision, either produces good results or negative consequences. The consequences take away our happiness and peace, leaving in our minds a dark cloud of misery and regret. This is the surprising part, he is an unbeliever.

The Scriptures teach us to Always Rely On God! “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean [rely] on your own understanding.” (Proverbs 3:5).

Reflection: In John 3:16, God proclaims absolute proof of His love for humanity. Our love relationship with Jesus Christ requires reciprocity; Jesus loves us and we love Him by being faithful and obedient.

Unless we love God and practice our spiritual gift of self-control [2 Timothy 1:7], our desires will force us to compromise and disobey every directive that God has given us in the Holy Bible.

“Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect.” (Romans 12:2: ESV).

The Believer’s Walk of Faith is a lifelong journey of daily self-denial, surrender, and faithful obedience to God.

“This is what the LORD says: ‘Cursed are those who put their trust in mere humans, who rely on human strength and turn their hearts away from the LORD.'” (Jeremiah 17:5, NLT).

King Solomon learned from experience, “Do not be wise in your own eyes.” (Proverbs 3:7). From studying the Bible, we find that God is doing all He can to keep us from being lost.

We have a Heavenly Father, who cares about the smallest details in our lives, and expects us to pray for His guidance and obey, by doing exactly what He tells us to do.

Adam, Eve, Cain, and Samson’s decisions teach us that relying on human wisdom is always a deadly choice, producing unwanted consequences. All repented, except Cain, who embraced pagan customs.

We cannot know what is going to happen from one minute to the next minute, or guarantee the outcomes of our decisions. If we love God, then we Rely on God.

The Apostle Paul wrote this to Timothy, who he was training to become a Pastor: “Think over what I say, for the Lord will give you understanding in everything.” (2 Timothy 2:7).

“There is a way that seems right to a man, but its end is the way to death.” (Proverbs 14:12).

Self-Reliance reveals that the bitter fruit of Pride has taken root in our heart, preventing our Spiritual Teacher and Guide, the Holy Spirit, from giving us the wisdom to make the right decisions, according to God’s Higher Thoughts and Ways [Isaiah 55:8-9].

“Wait patiently for the LORD; be strong and courageous. Wait patiently for the LORD!” (Psalm 27:14, MTB).

We Pray, Wait for God’s Answer, and the Holy Spirit speaks to us through our thoughts, and the Holy Scriptures.

Not only do we receive God’s Answer, but the Holy Spirit also gives us clear and concise directions to do exactly what God has commanded.

When God emancipated the Israelites from Egyptian slavery, the journey to the Promised Land was only 11 days. Because of their continuous disobedience of doing as they pleased, they wandered aimlessly in the wilderness for 40 years.

The Final Outcome: “Your bodies will fall in this wilderness—all who were numbered in the census, everyone twenty years of age or older—because you have grumbled against Me.” (Numbers 14:29).

“God declared that everyone 20 years and older would perish in the wilderness—due to the people’s disobedience and lack of faith after the spies returned from Canaan.”

Joshua and Caleb were the only two faithful and obedient men from the generation freed from Egyptian slavery, who received their reward of entering the Promised Land.

Canaan, the Promised Land in the Old Testament symbolizes The New Heaven and New Earth in Revelation chapters 21-22.

“But why do you call Me ‘Lord, Lord,’ and not do the things which I say?” (Luke 6:46). On the Day of Judgment, what possible answer can we provide to Jesus’ question?

The Walk of Faith requires a sacrificial life of seeking God’s Guidance through continuous Prayer, Bible Study, Faith, Surrender, and Obedience.

Are we willing to faithfully obey God for the remainder of our lives, which is required to receive Jesus’ Promise in John 14:1-3?

Lord God, we ask You to forgive us for our sins of disobedience and self-reliance. We also ask You to give us wisdom and strength, and to guide us in our daily lives as we prepare for Jesus’ Second Advent. Thank You for hearing and answering our prayer that we ask in the Loving and Righteous Name of Jesus Christ, Amen.

We Are God’s Greatest Investment – Are We Yielding Spiritual Returns?

According to religious statistics, “Globally, there are approximately 2.3 to 2.6 billion Christians worldwide. And there are over 4.3 billion people who have never accepted Christ.”

“Jesus came up and said to them, ‘All authority (All Power of Absolute Rule) in heaven and on earth has been given to Me.'” (Matthew 28:18, Amplified Bible).

The remaining people have various religious beliefs, but do not believe that Jesus Christ is God, the Son and the Second Person of the Triune Godhead.

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

Let’s direct our focus to the 2.3 to 2.6 billion Christians, who may attend weekly church services, yet many do not follow Jesus with surrender and faithful obedience, nor do they pray and study the Bible daily; “in the USA, only 11 to 13% of Christians study the Bible.”

The number of individuals who proclaim to be Christians are actually not practicing and living according to God’s Biblical Truth, or obeying His Righteous Precepts.

To God, the Father, we are His “Spiritual Investment.” Jesus gave His life to redeem us from the only penalty of being born into sin: “The wages of sin is death…” (Romans 6:23).

“Or do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit within you, whom you have from God? You are not your own, for you were bought with a price. So glorify God in your body.” (1 Corinthians 6:19-20, ESV).

The Spiritual Returns That God Expects

Every day, our choices, thoughts, spoken words, and lifestyles reveal whether or not, we are living a sacrificial life of self- denial and faithful obedience.

Representing the Light of Christ to others is our greatest witness that following Christ makes a difference in one’s life. These Spiritual Returns are required to receive our reward of Eternal Life [Revelation 22:12].

“I the Lord search the heart and test the mind, to give every man according to his ways, according to the fruit of his deeds.” (Jeremiah 17:10).

Because we inherited sinful hearts, our minds and characters are easily influenced by the evil of this world. But the Holy Spirit convicts us when we are disconnected from Christ.

In Isaiah 55:8-9, God tells us that His thoughts and ways are much higher than our thoughts. Jesus tells us that we are on the Narrow Path of Righteousness, or the wide path leading to destruction [Matthew 7:13 – 14].

Many Believers are living compromised lives, never praying and studying the Bible, thinking that all is well. How is that possible?

Satan has spread a false teaching that has been readily accepted in the Christian Community: You can live as you please and still go to Heaven.

Jesus Says, “Blessed are the pure in heart, For they shall see God.” (Matthew 5:8). We cannot live as we please and expect to inherit the Crown of Life [Revelation 3:21].

As Biblical Prophecy is being fulfilled, Christian believers will either fall into the group of the consecrated, faithful and obedient followers of Jesus Christ, “His Remnant:”

“And Isaiah cries out concerning Israel: ‘Though the number of the sons of Israel be as the sand of the sea, only a remnant of them will be saved!” (Romans 9:27, ESV).

“The “remnant” in the Bible refers to a faithful minority of believers whom God preserves and protects during times of widespread rebellion, judgment, and hardship.”

Or as the Apostle Paul describes the majority of believers living in the Last Days, [In 2026, we are the Christians, who are living in the Last Days].

The Behaviors of Compromising Christians:

“But know this, that in the last days perilous times will come:

2 For men will be lovers of themselves, lovers of money, boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy,

3 unloving, unforgiving, slanderers, without self-control, brutal, despisers of good,

4 traitors, headstrong, haughty, lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God,

5 having a form of godliness but denying its power. And from such people turn away!” (2 Timothy 3:1-5).

“I appeal to you therefore, brothers [and sisters], by the mercies of God, to present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God, which is your spiritual worship.” (Romans 12:1).

Yes, our gift of Salvation is free because Jesus paid with His life. “But God shows His love for us in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us.” (Romans 5:8).

Yielding Spiritual Returns: And for Jesus’ great sacrifice when we love and appreciate that we are redeemed by the blood of the Lamb, it is not a burden or an inconvenience to dedicate ourselves to follow and obey Christ, our Savior, Shepherd, and Resurrected King. Yes and Amen!

Lord God, many are standing at the Spiritual Crossroads, because they are attempting to portray themselves as dedicated Christians, but possess divided hearts. Yet, You know the true status of the human heart, and whether our love and loyalty is to Christ, or for ourselves. Lord, we pray for those who are wavering between the choices of life and death that they will come to their spiritual senses, making the decision to follow Christ with love, humility, and obedience. We ask the Holy Spirit to teach every believer how to live righteously, so we can be transformed, and receive our inheritance of Eternal Life. In faith and with humility, we ask this prayer in the Loving and Righteous Name of Jesus Christ, Amen.

Christ, The Mighty Warrior Is Still Defending The Righteous!

“For nothing will be impossible with God.” (Luke 1:37)

“In 701 BC, King Sennacherib of Assyria swept through the region, conquering 46 fortified cities in Judah. He laid siege to Jerusalem, trapping King Hezekiah and his people inside ‘like a bird in a cage.'”

“The Assyrian King claimed the God of Israel was no match for the Assyrian Empire. King Hezekiah prayed, believing God is The Sovereign Power!”

“God sent Isaiah, the prophet to tell King Hezekiah, ‘You will not have to fight the Assyrian Army.'”

“That very night, the angel of the Lord went out into the Assyrian camp and struck down 185,000 warriors.” Study 2 Kings 18–19 and Isaiah 36–37.

“With man this is impossible, but with God all things are possible.” (Matthew 19:27, ESV).

Three habits are preventing most believers from having steadfast faith and trust in God: Practicing the unbeliever’s mindset of self-reliance; Following our own thoughts and strategies; And not knowing God’s Righteous Character and His Sovereign Power.

Self-reliance creates “unbelieving” believers. They acknowledge that God exists, but the faith building habits of daily Prayer, Bible Study, and asking for God’s guidance and spiritual wisdom are non-existent.

The absence of daily surrender and faithful obedience reveals that we have an issue of the heart: “Jesus said to him, ‘You shall love the LORD your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your mind.'” (Matthew 22:37).

“Would not God discover this? For He knows the secrets of the heart.” (Psalm 44:21, ESV). Loving God means that we have a God First mindset, serving and honoring Him with surrender and obedience.

King David expresses the love relationship that true believers have with Jesus Christ:

“Hear, O Lord, when I cry with my voice! Have mercy also upon me, and answer me. When You said, ‘Seek My face,’ My heart said to You, ‘Your face, Lord, I will seek.'” (Psalm 27:7-8).

Hebrews 11, the Faith Chapter, tells us, “Without faith it is impossible to please God.” Every Christian must have their faith tested with trials and hardships, because relying on God is the only way for our faith to strengthen.

“I have told you these things so that in me you may have peace. You will have suffering in this world. Be courageous! I have conquered the world.” (John 16:33, CSB).

At some point, God will allow us to face adversity that human effort cannot resolve. And because we have directed our focus and faith to ourselves, trusting in our human wisdom and abilities, we will feel that our Heavenly Father has abandoned us.

To clarify, God does not send adversity. It is Satan, the Destroyer who creates chaos and corruption, afflicts humanity with disease, and causes the natural disasters on this Earth.

Every day, Satan unleashes his anger on those who follow him. Sadly, self-reliance places us on the same spiritual level as unbelievers.

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

Self-reliance produces a disobedient spirit that dishonors God’s Sovereignty, resulting in a spiritual disconnection from Elohim Shomri: “God is my Protector.”

Unless we remain faithful in our relationship with Christ, instead of enjoying Jesus’ Spiritual gifts of peace, joy, happiness, and angelic protection, we invite Satan to bring additional chaos into our lives.

The Sacrificial Life of Self-Denial and Obedience Is Required to Follow Christ

“…in view of God’s mercy…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.” (Romans 12:1-2, NIV).

Every day, we must choose who we will follow, God or ourselves. If we consecrate ourselves to follow Jesus Christ then we have His Absolute Promise of continuous protection against Spiritual Warfare and Satan’s diabolical attacks. Yes and Amen!

From Genesis to Revelation, the Bible gives us countless examples of God’s Love and Faithfulness, and His Commitment to protect the righteous.

Because of King Saul’s jealousy, David lived as a fugitive in the wilderness and mountains for 15 years. Once David became King of Judea, he faced many enemies, including two of his sons.

During David’s reign, Prince Absalom schemed to kill his father and take the throne, but David had Jesus’ heavenly angels protecting “the man after God’s own heart” and Absalom died an unusual death because he dishonored God’s Anointed King.

“No weapon formed against us will prosper…” (Isaiah 54:17).

Jesus Christ is still sending His angels to protect the righteous. We can only see the visible, but behind the scenes, there is an ongoing invisible spiritual war, and every believer is Satan’s target [Study Ephesians 6].

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

Lord God, we ask You to forgive us for our sins of self-reliance and disobedience. We have decided to follow Jesus with love and loyalty. Lord, we need You to be our Source of Strength and our Protector against Satan’s schemes to harm us. Thank You for Your continuous Love, Grace, and Mercies. We ask for the power and presence of the Holy Spirit to teach us how to redirect our faith and focus back to You. In faith, we ask this prayer in the Loving and Mighty 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

Stories of Triumph: Body, Mind, and Heart

“Blessed are the pure in heart, For they shall see God.” (Matthew 5:8).

“Therefore ‘Come out from among them And be separate, says the Lord. Do not touch what is unclean, And I will receive you.'” (2 Corinthians 6:7).

“Does your heart really belong to God?”

If you were asked to define success, would your answer include money, material possessions, and an elite social status?

“And what do you benefit if you gain the whole world but lose your own soul? Is anything worth more than your soul?” (Matthew 16:26, NLT).

Spiritual Fact: Wealth builders will not receive the reward of Eternal Life.

It is impossible to focus on pursuing temporary treasures on a temporary earth and have a faithful and obedient heart to heart relationship with Jesus Christ.

“Those whom I love, I rebuke and discipline. So be earnest and repent.” (Revelation 3:19, NIV).

“Keep your lives free from the love of money and be content with what you have, because God has said, ‘Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you.'” (Hebrews 13:5, NIV).

We are Temporary Travelers living on a Temporary Earth and everything we own is Temporary.

“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).

Persevering in faith with perfect trust and obedience to God will ensure spiritual success [spiritual growth and character transformation] and receiving your reward of the Crown of Life.

Every day, Prepare for Eternity – Put God First!

“And he showed me a pure river of water of life, clear as crystal, proceeding from the throne of God and of the Lamb.”

“There shall be no night there: They need no lamp nor light of the sun, for the Lord God gives them light. And they shall reign forever and ever.” (Revelation 22:1, 5).

Bible Study: John 14:1-3; Revelation 21-22

Lord God, we repent for chasing earthly treasures and pleasures, and ask You to give us the wisdom to see life through spiritual eyes, and the strength to overcome Satan’s distractions and temptations. Jesus, in faith, we dedicate our hearts to You, and thank You for the sacrificial gift of Your life on Calvary’s Cross. Lord, give us a heart filled with love and humility. We ask You to guide us in our journey on the Narrow Path of Righteousness as we prepare for Your Coming. In faith, we ask this prayer in the Loving and Righteous Name of Jesus, Amen.

Ask Jesus to Restart Your Life – Receiving the Gift of Spiritual Restoration

“And this righteousness from God comes through faith in Jesus Christ to all who believe. There is no distinction, for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.” (Romans 3:22-23).

Jesus tells us that every human being has sinned by disobeying God. Peter messed up and denied Jesus three times, still Jesus did not condemn him, Jesus restored him by asking Peter three times, “Do you love Me?”

We give Praises to God, the Father and God, Jesus the Son Jesus, who completed the Plan of Redemption on Calvary’s Cross, which includes confession, repentance, and God’s forgiveness for our sins.

“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).

Do not hold onto and grieve over your past experiences and mistakes. Refusing to forgive, nurturing anger, sadness, and despair over the past reveal unbelief [not using our faith to actively believe] in God’s Gift: “…the blood of Jesus Christ His Son cleanses us from all sin.”

“Through Christ’s atoning sacrifice, we are adopted into the family of God, and we proclaim, ‘Abba, Father!'”

Even God cannot change our past, but if we are willing to use our faith and believe in His promise of “making something new,” He will reset our lives and make beauty from the ashes of our past.

“For I am about to do something new. See, I have already begun! Do you not see it? I will make a pathway through the wilderness. I will create rivers in the dry wasteland.” (Isaiah 43:19, NLT).

The Gift: Through faith in Jesus Christ, we are declared righteous. The Apostle Paul tells us that from accepting Christ as our personal Savior, we become “new creations,” who are covered by Christ’s Righteousness, and as Sons and Daughters of God, we can expect to receive God’s greatest blessings.

Spiritual Restoration is a gift from God that requires us to live holy: “Be holy, for I Am Holy.” (1 Peter 1:16).

We connect to Christ and stay anchored in Him through daily surrender, faithful obedience, and personal worship [Prayer and Bible Study].

Yes, we use our faith to love, honor, and revere God by implicitly trusting and obeying Him. To receive God’s promises of Spiritual Renewal and Restoration, we cannot have a divided heart.

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

Our inherited Hearts naturally gravitate toward fulfilling our desires, but Self-Reliance is willful disobedience against God. The heart filled with love for God easily embraces and practices a “God First” mindset and lifestyle.

The Lifestyle of Daily Surrender: We let go of our thoughts and strategies by always praying for God’s Guidance before making decisions. “Do not be wise in your own eyes.” (Proverbs 3:7).

Even when we fall, with Agape Love and Mercy, Jesus extends His hand, which is an invitation for us to get up and try again. But this time, we use our faith to trust and obey our Shepherd by relying on His Divine Guidance and Strength. Yes and Amen!

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

Lord God, we confess that by living to fulfill our desires, we have redirected our faith and focus to ourselves. Our decisions are based on our thoughts and emotions, and for these sins of disobedience, we ask You for forgiveness. Our past experiences and mistakes have produced many consequences, but most importantly, we have forgotten that loving You requires us to put You First and to obey Your Will. In faith, we ask You to teach us how to love, to heal us from our past, and to restore our relationship with You. With gratitude and joy, we look forward to receiving Your promise of doing something new in our lives. With humility, we ask for these spiritual blessings in the Loving and Righteous Name of Jesus Christ, Amen.

Bible Study: 1 Corinthians 13

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.

Responding to Christ’s Love

“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 [tender and responsive].” (Ezekiel 36:26).

“Those who love Jesus and appreciate His great sacrifice receive from the Savior the most precious of all gifts—a clean heart.”

Spiritually, the heart represents our mind: “Let this mind be in you which was also in Christ Jesus…” (Philippians 2:5).

How did Jesus Christ think? “And He who sent Me is with Me. The Father has not left Me alone, for I always do those things that please Him.” (John 8:29).

When we love Jesus, our Shepherd, we follow Him with total surrender and faithful obedience. Our hearts respond to His Agape Love with love, tenderness, and the desire to have the Character of Christ [Galatians 5:22-24].

Every day, we must strive to be loyal to God. Instead of chasing earthly treasures, success, pleasures, and relationships that pull us away from Christ, we refuse to participate in the sinful habits and lifestyles that unbelievers easily practice.

“For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power, love, and self-control.”(2 Timothy 1:7, BSB). When Christ created us, He gave us the spiritual gift of Self-Control, which gives us the ability to practice spiritual discipline, saying, No, to sin.

But, we were not created to fight against the natural desires of our hearts and overcome Satan’s temptations without Jesus’ Divine Intervention; every day, we must ask for His Strength.

When facing challenges, our first response should be a prayer asking for Heavenly Help. Jesus Christ, our Intercessor receives our prayers, answering through the Holy Spirit.

“Pray continuously!” (1 Thessalonians 5:17). Although we have daily personal worship of Prayer and Bible Study, praying 1-2 times a day is never enough to live righteously and to fight against spiritual warfare.

The Commitment To Live As a Prayer Warrior

“Therefore let us [with privilege] approach the Throne of Grace [that is, the throne of God’s gracious favor] with confidence and without fear, so that we may receive Mercy and find [His amazing] Grace to help in time of need” [an appropriate blessing, coming just at the right moment]. (Hebrews 4:16, Amplified Bible).

The Life of a Prayer Warrior: Before making decisions, facing difficulties, and even in the routine duties of life, always pray, and ask the Holy Spirit for guidance.

At work, school, social activities, and even while driving or walking, we should whisper silent prayers. “I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go…” (Psalm 32:8, ESV).

With humility, we ask the Holy Spirit to guide our steps, protect us [and our family and friends] against physical danger, and to give us the discernment to recognize the spiritual warfare of deception, and the strength to overcome temptations.

Every day, we face unknown circumstances that we should not attempt to resolve. To strengthen our faith, we desperately need to stay close to Christ. Always pray to be empowered with Jesus’ Wisdom and Strength.

The Responsive Heart: “Wait on the LORD; Be of good courage, And He shall strengthen your heart; Wait, I say, on the LORD!” (Psalm 27:14). Pray and wait for God’s answer.

Whatever the circumstances, never feel pressured into making immediate decisions. God is Omniscient, All-Knowing; God knows every detail of our lives and He is never in a hurry.

“Be still and now that I am God.” (Psalm 46:1).

God’s timing is never our timing. Do not follow your thoughts or emotions. God never needs our help, He requires our steadfast faith, trust, patience, courage, and obedience.

“I will guide you.” How do we know that it is God’s answer and not our thoughts? God’s Answers reveal His Truth, Righteous Character, Honor Him, and always end with Perfect Outcomes.

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

Through personal worship, day by day, the Holy Spirit transforms our mind, character, and personality into the likeness of Christ.

Prayer keeps us connected to Christ, resulting in a responsive heart that is spiritually aligned with the heart of Christ.

With a tender and responsive heart, we receive the blessings of Christ’s Wisdom to perceive life through spiritual eyes, and His Life-Sustaining Power to think, speak, and live as the righteous Sons and Daughters of God. Yes and Amen!

“Show me your ways, Lord, teach me your paths. Guide me in your truth and teach me,
for you are God my Savior, and my hope is in you all day long.” (Psalm 25:4-5, NIV).

Lord God, we thank You for this new day of life and we ask You for a pure heart, a heart that loves You, a heart that is responsive, teachable, loyal, and always willing to trust and obey Your plans for our lives. Thank You for your Amazing Love, Grace, and Mercy. In faith, we ask this prayer in the Loving and Righteous Name of Jesus Christ, Amen.