Faith Love Trust Obedience – Page 18 – Steps 2 Success with Spiritual Solutions

Jesus Knows Your Name: We Are Loved!

“But even the hairs of your head are all counted. Do not fear; you are more valuable than a great number of sparrows” (Luke 12:7).

“Overcoming Fear and Anxiety: The parable of sparrows is used to remind us of two concepts: We are loved by God, and we are His priority.

“Jesus uses the example of sparrows to reassure His followers that God cares for us even more deeply than for sparrows. He points out that humans are of greater value, as evidenced by the fact that God even numbers the hairs on their heads.”

“I have loved you with an everlasting love, therefore I’ve drawn you with love and kindness” (Jeremiah 31:3).

The Bible is a love story. In Genesis, we learn of God and Jesus’ conversation: “Let us create humanity in our image,” which establishes our identity in Jesus Christ as created human beings. Genesis also reveals God’s Divine intervention when facing the impossible, as well as the many victories given to the faithful.

Revelation chapters 20-22 reveal Jesus’ return as the Triumphant King, give us the conclusive knowledge of how sin and death will be destroyed, and a magnificent overview of the New Heaven and New Earth prepared for the righteous.

When God, the Son, Jesus Christ, created humanity, He equipped us with spiritual gifts and the spiritual capacity for the indwelling of the Holy Spirit. We were given the highest intellect of all created beings, Free Will of choice, the ability to love, and the power to choose right over wrong.

The Omniscient [All-Knowing] Triune God knew that Adam and Eve would choose to disobey His command, “Do not eat from the Tree of the Knowledge of Good and Evil.” The Scriptures verify that Jesus’ vow to give His life, the Plan of Redemption, was established between God, Father, and God, the Son, before the world’s creation, and before sin entered the Earth.

“For this is how God loved the world: He gave his one and only Son, so that everyone who believes in him will not perish but have eternal life” (John 3:16).

God, the Father, approved Jesus, His only Son, to leave His Heavenly throne, come to Earth, live in poverty, suffer hatred, and die a gruesome death on Calvary’s Cross because we are loved.

How often do we think about and thank Jesus Christ, our Redeemer, for sacrificing His life for us? Yes, we are covered by Grace, yet if we choose Him as our personal Savior, then God expects us to learn and obey His Commandments and Righteous Principles.

The Book of Ruth is a love story of God’s Redemption. Often, we associate the story with God giving us the perfect husband or wife, yet there is a deeper spiritual meaning of Boaz redeeming Ruth.

In the Old Testament, God established a law that a person and his property could be redeemed by the closest relative. Boaz redeeming Ruth represents Christ, who redeemed us from the wages of sin, which is death.

God’s Promise to Provide for the Righteous

“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” (Matthew 6:31-32).

God Protects the Righteous

Psalm 91 tells us that we have angelic protection. God has assigned us guardian angels to protect us from unseen spiritual warfare and physical danger.

Our Royal Identity Is in Christ

“We love Him because He first loved us” (1 John 4:19).
“But you are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, His own special people, that you may proclaim the praises of Him who called you out of darkness into His marvelous light…” (1 Peter 2:9).
“For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind” (2 Timothy 1:17).
And God will wipe away every tear from their eyes; there shall be no more death, nor sorrow, nor crying. There shall be no more pain, for the former things have passed away. Then He who sat on the throne said, ‘Behold, I make all things new…’ ” (Revelation 21:4-5)

“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. 4 And where I go you know, and the way you know” (John 14:1-4).

Today’s Christian believers live with troubled minds, overwhelmed with anxiety, worries, and do not enjoy Jesus’ gifts of peace, joy, and happiness. How did we end up with the same troubles that unbelievers suffer from?

There are many reasons why we are as discontent, weary, and burdened as unbelievers. We are suffering because we are focused on fulfilling our desires to be wealthy, successful, and in love. Because we do not enjoy a strong relationship with Jesus Christ, the external opposition of temptations is the catalyst that results in continuous internal conflict. Righteous priorities result in peace of mind.

According to religious surveys, less than 30% of global Christians study the Bible. Satan has deceived us into thinking that church attendance satisfies God’s requirements, “Be holy, For I Am Holy (1 Peter 1:16). Because we lack knowledge of God’s Holy Scripture, we cannot abide in Christ.

Reading the Scriptures versus Studying the Scriptures: We may not realize that many historians and atheists also do not believe in Darwin’s erroneous theory of evolution. They utilize the Bible for an accurate history of the planet Earth. But they are never transformed spiritually because salvation is not their goal.

Reading the Bible differs from studying the Bible under the teaching of the Holy Spirit, which transforms our mind and character. Unless our hearts are converted, the Spirit of Truth cannot give us the wisdom and discernment to fully understand God’s loving character.

If we accept Christ and do not know His earthly life of revealing and rebuking Satan’s deceptions, temptations, and His ministry of healing mental and emotional oppression, and physical illnesses, or study his parables and sermons, then Jesus is a stranger, and we feel no connection to Him.

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

For what will it profit a man if he gains the whole world [wealth, fame, success], but forfeits his soul? Or what will a man give in exchange for his soul [his blessed life in the kingdom of God]? (Matthew 16:26, AMPC).

Sadly, because our beliefs are a mixture of world views and little bits and pieces of the Scriptures that we hear in weekly sermons, we have convinced ourselves that we are living righteously.

“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).

For over 6,000 years, Satan’s deceptions have been effective. Believers, we have allowed Satan to abuse us by manipulating our minds, convincing us that, like Cain, we can give God the sacrifice we determine to give Him. We have accepted Compromised Religion as our standard for serving a Holy and Righteous God who reminds us in Malachi 3 that He does not change.

Our lifestyles reveal that we are in agreement with satanic concepts of redefining sin into categories of least to greatest. We believe that if we do not commit grievous sins according to our definition of sin, then we assume that all is well with our right standing in God.

Most of the Christian Community is suffering from internal conflict because we are not living consecrated and surrendered lives. The internal restlessness that we attempt to appease by seeking material wealth, success, and forming relationships with unbelievers is the Holy Spirit speaking to our hearts, warning us that we are no longer traveling on the Path of Righteousness.

“Why do you call me ‘Lord, Lord,’ and not do what I say?” (Luke 6:46). Our sin of disobedience and rebellion against God is demonstrated by our failure to bow before God every day through surrender, and seeking and obeying His will.

“Jesus said to him, ‘You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your mind. This is the first and great commandment. And the second is like it: You shall love your neighbor as yourself. On these two commandments hang all the Law and the Prophets’ ” (Matthew 22:36-40).

Not only must we love God more than ourselves, but we must also love our brothers and sisters, which God defines as everyone. Although we attempt to challenge the concept that hatred is in our hearts, Christ tells us that either we love or hate; there is no concept of disliking others, and unforgiveness reveals that we do not love God. We must possess Christ’s love, forgiveness, and character.

The Attributes of Christ’s Righteous Character are also defined by Galatians 5:22-23 and Ephesians 4:32.

The converted heart seeks to worship God with love, trust, faithful obedience, and surrender. Daily surrender, prayer, and studying the Bible are the only way that we can maintain our relationship with Christ. Worship is a lifestyle.

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

Who is Jesus Christ? The Four Gospels, Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John, were written by four writers inspired by the Holy Spirit who used great detail to reveal the Righteous and Loving character of Christ. Loving Jesus is Knowing Jesus.

The Holy Scriptures encourage believers to use our gift of faith to completely trust in God’s love, provision, and protection. God knew that we would face many false teachings and doctrines. Yes, God knew that Satan would constantly tempt us to follow our hearts and pursue the world’s empty promises and prosperity.

God has given us the Righteous Ammunition to fight the spiritual war with 66 Righteous Books that comprise the Holy Bible to guide us on the Path of Righteousness.

“But when He, the Spirit of truth, comes, he will guide you into all the truth. He will not speak on his own; he will speak only what he hears, and he will tell you what is yet to come ” (John 16:13).

Human effort alone is inadequate to live righteously. The Holy Spirit is also God. Jesus identifies the Holy Spirit as He. Yes, the Spirit of Truth is a mystery; we do not have to understand how the Holy Spirit works in our lives.

From a whisper of Prayer, we have access to Jesus Christ, our Mediator and Intercessor, who gives us His Divine guidance and the supernatural strength we need to overcome sinful desires. It is the Holy Spirit who imparts Jesus’ Righteous Attributes to believers who commit to following Him.

What more could Jesus have done for us?

Brothers and sisters, we must fight the good fight of faith and persevere until the Second Advent of Jesus’ Coming. Reflect deeply on why you accepted Jesus Christ as your personal Savior.

With holy conviction, we must use our faith to love God and pledge our loyalty to King Jesus. With humility and unwavering faith, we strive to live righteously because we appreciate His Agape love and great sacrifice to save our souls. Only then can we enjoy God’s peace, joy, and happiness.

“I have loved you with an everlasting love; Therefore I have drawn you with lovingkindness. (Jeremiah 31:3).

We are loved! Therefore, we prepare ourselves every day, and with joyful anticipation, live as the righteous heirs of our Triumphant King who is coming sooner than we think! Yes and Amen!

Lord God, as we worship You in spirit and truth on the Holy Sabbath, we ask for a revival of our hearts and the baptism of the Holy Spirit. We are overwhelmed by the many false teachings and ask for spiritual clarity. Please reveal Your One and Only Truth. We repent of our sins and ask You to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. We desire to receive our Crown of Life. Thank You for Your great sacrifice, and Your love, grace, and mercies. In Jesus’ righteous Name, we ask these things in faith, Amen.

How Does God Define Worship?

“But the hour is coming, and is now here, when the true worshipers will worship the Father in spirit and truth, for the Father is seeking such people to worship Him” (John 4:23).

Personal worship is a lifestyle of total surrender and faithful obedience to God. True heart conversion is manifested by seeking God’s will every day, we desire to please God because we love Him.

“He [Abraham] said to his servants, ‘Stay here with the donkey while I and the boy go over there. We will worship and then we will come back to you’ ” (Genesis 22:5).

Abraham demonstrated an obedient response to God’s command to sacrifice, Isaac, his only son because he trusted God. Yes, it was the greatest test of Abraham’s faith, but Abraham believed that God would fulfill the promise He had given to him before Isaac was born.

From our devout love for God, the Father, and Jesus Christ, our Savior and Redeemer, we acquiesce to His Authority because He is God, the Sovereign Ruler of this universe who sustains our lives.

Through prayer, we ask for God’s plans to be revealed for our lives, and then we fulfill His plans through obedience and perseverance. God honors consistent worship, yet, the rejection of Cain’s sacrifice teaches us that we cannot offer God what we think He deserves.

From our willingness to surrender and obey, the Holy Spirit speaks to us through our thoughts, and the Scriptures, giving us the wisdom and guidance required to follow God’s plans, and to live righteously.

“But when you pray, go into your most private room, close the door and pray to your Father who is in secret, and your Father who sees [what is done] in secret will reward you” (Matthew 6:6, Amplified Bible).

For personal worship, Jesus tells us to separate ourselves from everyone else. Personal worship should not include our cellular devices, or other people. Distractions prevent us from experiencing one-to-one communion in the presence of God.

God is Holy, and we reverence Him with the utmost respect. The power of God manifests itself through the Holy Spirit. We receive spiritual discernment, strength, and renewed endurance to run the Christian race, despite our obstacles.

Daniel prayed three times a day. When thrown into the lion’s den, Daniel’s faith remained strong because he believed that God is who He says He is, our Faithful, and Powerful Deliverer who promises us victory when we depend on Him.

“Yes, I am the vine; you are the branches. Those who remain in me, and I in them, will produce much fruit. For apart from me you can do nothing” (John 15:5, NLT).

Personal worship is the only way to maintain our relationship with Jesus Christ who covers us with His Righteousness. Worship begins in our hearts. From spending time with God, the Believers who consecrate themselves daily receive a life-changing experience from the Holy Spirit.

Eternal life will include worshiping God every day. Our earthly lives are the only opportunity that we have to establish the habit of honoring God through personal worship.

Because we live in perilous times, we desperately need the guidance of the Holy Spirit to overcome temptations, recognize false teachings, and to keep us the Path of Righteousness. We cannot fight spiritual warfare without angelic protection and intervention.

Many believers attend weekly church services, but never grow spiritually because they fail to maintain a heart-to-heart relationship with Jesus through the daily commitment of personal worship.

Ritualistic worship accomplishes nothing, we feel no remorse for our sinful lifestyles. One cannot experience spiritual growth from attending church once a week, which explains why many can live a double life of committing sin, but still attend church without feeling guilty.

Sanctification is the lifelong spiritual process of being transformed into the image of Christ. Daily worship invites the Holy Spirit to give us a deeper understanding of the Scriptures, and strengthen our faith in God.

Faithful obedience and surrender are the requisites for worshiping God in spirit and truth. Spiritual growth and maturity is the work of the Holy Spirit that requires our cooperation of humility, faith, and abiding in Christ through prayer and Bible study.

Praise and worship for God is manifested beyond external expression. We must love God more than ourselves. Love is the catalyst that propels us to present ourselves as a Living Sacrifice to God by exchanging our desires for His Perfect Plans.

“I appeal to you, 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. 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 12:1-2, ESV me).

Lord God, we come to you in humility and surrender ready to fulfill your will and plans for our lives. We pray for guidance, wisdom, discernment, and the strength to persevere in our spiritual journey. We ask this prayer in the Holy Name of Jesus, Amen.

© 2025 STEPS 2 Success with Spiritual Solutions Ministry

Never Alone, You Are Loved

“Through all our trials, we have a never-failing Helper who says, ‘Yes, I have loved you with an everlasting love; Therefore with loving kindness I have drawn you.I love you with an everlasting love…'” (Jeremiah 31:3).

“He [Jesus] does not leave us alone to struggle with temptation, to battle with evil, and be finally crushed with burdens and sorrow.”

“The griefs that lie too deep to be breathed into any human ear, I know. Think not that you are desolate and forsaken.”

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

Lord God, we desperately need Your strength as we travel through this journey of life. There are many believers who feel that You don’t love us, yet, You are who You say You are, a Righteous Refuge that we can run too, and receive help. Thank You for Your Abiding Love. We ask this prayer for help in the Worthy Name of Jesus Christ, Amen.

Victoriously Overcoming Life’s Challenges

“Oh, love the Lord, all you His saints! For the Lord preserves the faithful, And fully repays the proud person. Be of good courage, And He shall strengthen your heart, All you who hope in the Lord” (Psalm 31:23-24).

The psalmist exclaims, “Love the Lord all you His saints.” Loving Christ is to live a life of daily consecration.

What is consecration? Consecration is the surrender of ourselves [our desires and plans] to God whose desire is for us to totally depend on Him by obeying His will and plans.

Consecration is not a one time decision, we must dedicate ourselves every day to God by asking the Holy Spirit to reveal God’s plans to us. Obedience reveals our love and gratitude to God for each new day of abundant mercies.

Time with God in His presence through personal worship is the intentional decision to put God first, which requires a spirit of humility. Daily, we face the internal conflict of fulfilling our desires or following Christ.

Pride always separates us from God. It is the proud heart that demonstrates a lifestyle of self-seeking pleasures. Ritualistic worship of attending church, and even praying, and studying the Bible does not eliminate the sin of pride.

Surrender, humility, and faithful obedience reveals that we are ready to follow Christ who leads us on the Path of Righteousness when we cease pursuing our our thoughts and desires.

Following Christ as His disciple frees us from the bondage of sin. The Holy Spirit gives us comfort, spiritual wisdom, and discernment. From living a life of total reliance on God, our first response is a prayer of faith asking for Divine help when facing challenges.

“But I trust in the Lord, I will be glad and rejoice in Your mercy, For You have considered my trouble; You have known my soul in adversities…” (Psalm 31:6-7).

The righteous can rejoice! Trusting in God is rewarded with the gift of peace that permeates our mind, body, and soul. To be in right standing with God allows us to live with courage.

Yes, we have the assurance that Jesus, our Mighty Warrior will defend us when facing spiritual warfare, and resolve all adversity with His Miraculous Power. Yes, the faithful place their faith, trust, and hope in Jesus Christ.

“And he awoke and rebuked the wind and said to the sea, ‘Peace! Be still!’ And the wind ceased, and there was a great calm” (Mark 4:39).

When facing storms, the righteous cry out, Jesus, help me! From placing our faith and trust in our Shepherd, Jesus Christ, He leads us to peaceful pastures, and restores our joy.

“I will answer them before they even call to me. While they are still talking about their needs, I will go ahead and answer their prayers!” (Isaiah 65:24, NLT).

Living a Most Wonderful Life without fear, anxieties, or worries is God’s Divine plan for every believer.

Placing our confidence in God’s steadfast love goes beyond our earthly challenges, Jesus promises the faithful, To those who overcome will receive the Crown of Life when He comes again. Hallelujah! Yes and Amen.

Lord God, Great is your faithfulness! We give you the honor, glory, and praise that You rightfully deserve. Lord, we thank You for loving and caring for us. Thank you for giving us victory over our challenges. All that we need, You have provided. Thank you, Heavenly Father. With gratitude, we ask this prayer, in the Loving Name of Jesus Christ, Amen.

The Essence of Salvation Is God’s Love

One of my favorite chapters is Romans 12, in which the Apostle Paul explains to the members of the church in Rome how to live righteously.

The Christian Journey is tough! We must renounce sin, let go of our desires, and cooperate with the Holy Spirit who produces daily spiritual transformation when we are in agreement with God’s will.

Active Participation Is Required for Spiritual Growth and Transformation! Many believers think because we are covered by God’s Grace, all we need to do is to attend church once a week.

But passivity is dangerous to our spiritual journey. It is the intentional decision to follow Christ that keeps us in right standing with God. Using our faith to obey God results in experiential spiritual growth and character transformation.

Active participation reveals our love for God, and the desire to receive our inheritance of Eternal Life.

“Therefore, my dear friends, as you have always obeyed—not only in my presence, but now much more in my absence—continue to work out your salvation with fear and trembling” (Philippians 2:12, NIV),

To “work out your salvation with fear and trembling” does not mean we attempt to earn salvation or to be afraid. “Instead, it encourages believers to live out their salvation with reverence and awe, recognizing God’s work within them.”

Participating in our salvation: “It is a call to live in obedience, and possess gratitude for the gift of salvation with the understanding that God empowers us to do so.”

What does active participation look like in the converted believer’s life?

Our love for God is revealed by surrender to God’s Sovereignty. We seek His will and plans daily through prayer, and studying the Bible.
Worshiping God with faithful obedience invites the Holy Spirit to give us strength, wisdom, and discernment.
Maintaining a clean and pure heart invites the Holy Spirit to guide us, and to give us the wisdom to perceive life through spiritual eyes.
Asking God for His Divine help when facing small obstacles creates a spirit of dependency, so when the raging storms of trials and tribulations come, our First Response is to pray in faith with the confidence that God will help us.
Eliminating distractions, not listening to the many voices, and managing our time wisely are behaviors that indicate God is first in our lives.
Before making decisions based on following our thoughts, we pray for Divine guidance. Whether God tells us to wait and be still, or to follow His directives, in faith, we obey.
Finally, we renounce our heart’s desires in exchange for God’s plans. Our lifestyle including relationships represent that we serve a Righteous and Holy God, and we are striving to live a consecrated and obedient life.

“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).

The bottom line is that God loves us. God, the Father has revealed His Perfect Love by giving His only Son, Jesus Christ to save our souls.

With unfailing love, Jesus, God, the Son fulfilled The Plan of Redemption on Calvary’s Cross revealing that it is possible to live a faithful, holy, and obedient life.

“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).

Lord God, we ask You for guidance, wisdom, and the strength and courage to obey Your Divine will. Teach us how to live righteously. We ask for the Holy Spirit to permeate our minds that we may hear Your voice and faithfully obey Your will. In Jesus’ Righteous Name, we pray, Amen.

Sabbath Peace and Blessings – June 14, 2025

“If you keep your feet from breaking the Sabbath and from doing as you please on my holy day, if you call the Sabbath a delight and the LORD’s holy day honorable, and if you honor it by not going your own way and not doing as you please or speaking idle words, Then the LORD will be your delight. I will give you great honor…” (Isaiah 58:13-14, NLT).

LORD, You Are Worthy to Be Praised!

“I will bless the LORD at all times; His praise shall continually be in my mouth” (Psalm 34:1). Praise and Worship is a daily personal experience magnifying the Lord and rejoicing in His goodness.

Separating ourselves from the noise of distractions is the only way we can enter the presence of a Holy God, and receive a blessing of wisdom, discernment, and strength.

Lord God, we worship Your Holy Name, and honor You through surrender and faithful obedience. In Jesus’ Holy Name, Hallelujah and Amen!

Stand Still! Yahweh Nissi Will Fight For You

King Jehoshaphat’s Prayer

“Then Jehoshaphat stood in the assembly of Judah and Jerusalem, in the house of the Lord…and said: ‘O Lord God of our fathers, are You not God in heaven, and do You not rule over all the kingdoms of the nations, and in Your hand is there not power and might, so that no one is able to withstand You? ‘” (2 Chronicles 20:5-6).

God’s Answer: “And he said, ‘Listen, all you of Judah and you inhabitants of Jerusalem, and you, King Jehoshaphat! Thus says the Lord to you: ‘Do not be afraid nor dismayed because of this great multitude, for the battle is not yours, but God’s'” (2 Chronicles 20:15).

“You will not need to fight in this battle. Position yourselves, stand still and see the salvation of the Lord, who is with you, O Judah and Jerusalem! Do not fear or be dismayed; tomorrow go out against them, for the Lord is with you” (2 Chronicles 20:17).

Yesterday, God revealed that He is Faithful, Sovereign, Powerful, and His promise to resolve, and bring completion to impossible situations is exactly what He does for the righteous who put their faith in Him.

God resolved a complex situation yesterday that brought me to my knees in awe and reverence of His Love and Power! When we place our faith and trust in our Heavenly Father and Warrior God, He gives us victory!

God brought me to a Spiritual Crossroads in which I had to decide whether or not, I would place my life, faith, and trust in His hands. I chose God by renewing my covenant of consecration to faithfully obey and trust Him.

Only trust Him! His Banner Over Us Is Love!

Yahweh Nissi “This name…signifies God’s presence and guidance as a banner, ensuring protection and victory in times of conflict.”

Lord God, Great is your Faithfulness. Thank you for being the Warrior God of today, tomorrow, and forever, who promises to protect and fight for us when we place our faith in You. Thank you for revealing your love and protection for those who run to You for help. With love and surrender, we bow our knees to your Sovereign Authority. In Jesus’ Righteous and Powerful Name, we pray, Amen.

Preparing to Receive Our Eternal Reward

From the moment that we accept Christ as our personal Savior, we are enlisted in God’s Army which requires unwavering love, steadfast faith, commitment, and much courage. Every believer is in a Spiritual War that we cannot win unless we rely on the Power of God.

The daily face-off between choosing right over wrong requires us to make adjustments in our lives.

Manage your time by eliminating all unnecessary distractions. Replace excessive screen time with prayer and Bible study.
Do not let people’s petty pursuits become your problems. Satan’s most effective strategy is to use people to prevent us from completing our daily activities and spiritual goals.
Everyday consecrate your life to Christ through total surrender and faithful obedience. Prayer: LORD, fill my life with your Holy Spirit.
Twice a day separate yourself for personal worship. We are living in the Last Days [2 Timothy 3], and require the Holy Spirit to empower us with spiritual wisdom and strength to live as Victorious Overcomers.
“Pray without ceasing” (1 Thessalonians 5:17). Prayer is our spiritual lifeline and connection to Jesus Christ, our Heavenly Intercessor.

Prayer acknowledges that God is Sovereign. Our lifestyle should reflect that we honor God as the Supreme Authority and Ruler over this universe, and in our lives.

“Reverence, is not just a feeling, but a deep respect and honor for God’s greatness and holiness, demonstrated in both our actions and attitudes. Reverence is a Response to God’s Majesty.”

“Reverence in Daily Life: Reverence should extend beyond formal worship and be integrated into our daily lives through obedience to God’s commandments, honoring His name, and treating sacred things with respect.”

“Reverence for God’s Word: We approach the Bible with reverence, recognizing it as God’s voice speaking to us. The Holy Scriptures provide a rich resource for understanding and cultivating a deeper sense of respect and honor for God in our lives.”

Our thoughts regarding God’s Omnipotence and Sovereign Authority are demonstrated by our lifestyle and pursuits. As believers, if we persist in following our thoughts and desires then we will receive only the temporary rewards this earth provides.

“I call to you, LORD, come quickly to me; here me when I call to you. May my prayer be set before you like incense; May the lifting up of my hands be like the evening sacrifice. (Psalm 141:2).

“David’s prayer in Psalm 141 is a heartfelt plea for God’s guidance and protection, acknowledging his own need for Divine intervention. He wants his prayers to be genuine and pleasing to God, seeking to live a life that reflects his devotion.”

Our love, honor, and reverence for God’s Supremacy is demonstrated by a surrendered, and sacrificial life of humility and obedience. The converted heart is one that is filled with the Oil of Grace, which is the power of the Holy Spirit.

Seeking God’s will and plans every day through prayer is the sweet incense that ascends to Christ, our Heavenly Intercessor, demonstrating our love and loyalty to God.

Sanctification is the daily spiritual transformation of our minds, characters, and personalities into the likeness of Christ performed by the Holy Spirit when we cooperate by serving God with love, loyalty, and faithful obedience.

Praise God, that Jesus suffered, bled, and died for us. Yes, this earthly journey is like traveling on a rocky road, and at times we will stumble and fall, but if we look up, and pray for help, our Savior, and Triumphant King, Jesus Christ is extending His Hand of Mercy to pick us up.

Lord God, we pray for Your guidance, protection, correction, and redirection when we are tempted to follow our thoughts. We realize that we cannot stay on the Path of Righteousness without Your Divine help. We ask you to reveal all obstacles that would prevent us from receiving our reward of Eternal Life, and ask this prayer in the Worthy Name of Jesus, Amen.

The Plot

Have you ever read a great book, and the plot begins to evolve? You pause for a few moments as you perform a mental sweep, after assuring yourself that all tasks are completed, you place yourself on a “Do Not Disturb” status. Eagerly, you continue your journey prepared to transition into the exciting depths of the unknown.

The Holy Bible is the Greatest Book of All! Never can we exhaust our acquisition of spiritual knowledge and wisdom when the Holy Spirit is our Teacher.

The Plot we will explore explains the sacrificial life of suffering that our Protagonist, King Jesus, endured to free us from the chains of sin.

The Place: The Synagogue, The Day: The Holy Sabbath.

Mark tells us of Jesus’ practice of attending the weekly Sabbath Service, where one would expect to receive God’s blessings of spiritual renewal and transformation. But as soon as Jesus entered the synagogue after a busy week of teaching and healing the multitudes, He faced controversy initiated by the Jewish leaders.

“Another time Jesus went into the synagogue, and a man with a shriveled hand was there. Some of them were looking for a reason to accuse Jesus, so they watched him closely to see if he would heal him on the Sabbath” (Mark 3:1-2).

For the believers who attend church [in-person services], verses 1-2 should immediately raise a Spiritual Red Flag. Can you imagine, after a mentally, emotionally, and physically draining week, you look forward to attending church only to face controversy as soon as you enter?

Opening the Door of Controversy: Jesus Heals On the Sabbath

The Command: “Jesus said to the man with the shriveled hand, ‘Stand up in front of everyone’ ” (Mark 3:3, NIV).

The Unanswered Question: “Then Jesus asked them, ‘Which is lawful on the Sabbath: to do good or to do evil, to save life or to kill?’ But they remained silent” (Mark 3:4, NIV).

Jesus’ Righteous Anger: “He looked around at them in anger and, deeply distressed at their stubborn hearts, said to the man, ‘Stretch out your hand.’ He stretched it out, and his hand was completely restored (Mark 3:5, NIV).

The Plot Twist: Evil Hearts Revealed: “Then the Pharisees went out and began to plot with the Herodians how they might kill Jesus” (Mark 3:6).

“In Jesus’ time, Jewish leaders were primarily priests, scribes, and Pharisees, holding positions of religious authority and influence. They oversaw the temple, interpreted and applied the law, and played a role in the legal and political spheres.”

“These leaders, particularly the Sadducees and Pharisees, were often in conflict with Jesus, challenging His teachings and authority.” The leaders manipulated the religious practices to include extreme burdens and unreasonable goals that were humanly impossible to achieve. Yet, they did not adhere to their rules, which were only for the common people.

The Jews Reject Jesus: John 10
“The Festival of the Dedication of the Temple took place in Jerusalem during the winter. Jesus was walking on Solomon’s porch in the temple courtyard…”

“The Jews surrounded Him. They asked Him, ‘How long will you keep us in suspense? If you are the Messiah, tell us plainly…'”

“Jesus answered them, ‘I have told you, but you do not believe me. The things that I do in my Father’s name testify on my behalf…”

“However, you do not believe because you are not my sheep. My sheep respond to my voice, and I know who they are. They follow me, and I give them eternal life. They will never be lost, and no one will tear them away from me…”

“My Father, who gave them to me, is greater than everyone else, and no one can tear them away from my Father. The Father and I are one…'”

The Plot Twist: “The Jews had again brought some rocks to stone Jesus to death. Jesus replied to them, ‘I have shown you many good things that come from the Father. For which of these good things do you want to stone me to death?…'”

“The Jews answered Jesus, ‘We are going to stone you to death, not for any good things you have done, but for dishonoring God. You claim to be God, although you are only a man'” (John 10:22-33, GW Translation).

As we immerse ourselves in reading just one of the diabolical situations in the Scriptures, which document the continuous hatred and rejection that Jesus faced, we should deeply reflect on the extreme suffering that our Savior was willing to endure to save our souls.

The Reveal of the Religious Antagonist’s True Condition of Their Hearts: “‘You claim to be God, although you are only a man.'”

“But why do you call Me ‘Lord, Lord,’ and not do the things which I say?” (Luke 6:46). In our Book of Life, the only way that we can receive the Crown of Life is if Jesus Christ, the Triumphant King, is the Righteous Protagonist, and we are covered with His Righteousness.

“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).

Unless we surrender daily with a spirit of humility by seeking God’s Sovereign Will and Plans for our lives, then just like the Jewish leaders, Pharisees, and Sadducees, we are antagonists who demonstrate by following our own thoughts that Jesus is only a man.

Our cooperation with God’s Divine Plan is revealed by a life of sacrificial surrender. Only from receiving Jesus’ Divine strength and wisdom can the Holy Spirit lead us daily on the Path of Righteousness.

The lifelong Spiritual Transformation of our Character, Sanctification, requires daily teamwork between the Holy Spirit and ourselves.

“Who may ascend the hill of the LORD? Who may stand in His holy place? He who has clean hands and a pure heart, who does not lift up his soul to an idol or swear deceitfully” (Psalm 24:3-4).

The Holy Spirit does not enter unclean bodies—our hearts must be pure to mature spiritually. Through faithful obedience, we worship God with love and in spirit and in truth.

Yes, we have received God’s Grace, still God requires total surrender and obedience as demonstrated by Jesus in His life. Our earthly lives are the only opportunity we have to surrender and let go of all unrighteousness.

Without compromise, God requires us to exchange our desires for His will. And sadly, this stringent requirement causes many believers to abandon God’s Personal Plan Book for their lives. But rewriting our story has devastating consequences.

Obedience is the character trait that paves the road of the Christian’s Spiritual Journey. Our priorities and lifestyles must align with the Holy Scriptures, which Jesus will use to judge everyone.

By fulfilling the sacrificial role of obeying God, we proclaim that Jesus Christ is truly the Righteous Protagonist, King, Lord, and Savior in the books of our lives.

Lord God, we ask You to search our hearts and reveal everything that prevents us from receiving Eternal Life. In Jesus’ Righteous Name, we pray, Amen.