Faith Love Trust Obedience – Page 52 – Steps 2 Success with Spiritual Solutions

Becoming Aware of “What Defines You?”

Becoming Aware of What Defines You? Devotional Reading June 6, 2023

If you have ever been put on the spot to verbalize how you feel about a topic or situation, it may place you in a very uncomfortable situation. Without knowing “What defines you?”, we have to react spontaneously, [which usually results in compromise], and may not reflect our true beliefs.

Take some alone time away from the noise of electronic devices, social media, newscasts, and even family members to answer the question, Who Am I? What are the conflicts, injustices, and criminal activity that I would take a stand against? With the endless distractions in our lives, many individuals do not know their morals, values, or belief system.

Belief System: a set of principles that together form the basis of a religion, philosophy, or moral code. The Christian belief system is defined by God’s Righteous Principles and Laws.

Let’s take a look at butter. Yes, the butter that we cook with or just eat on a slice of bread. I read an article on “How Butter Works: why recipes call for it cold, soft or melted.” The three consistencies of butter produce different effects and outcomes, tenderness and lift [fluffiness], crisp, flaky layers, and soft, dense textures.

In the same manner, the consistency of butter produces different outcomes, as free moral agents, the different buttery worldviews impact the way we think. The acceptance of those worldviews along with our logical deduction and our emotional feelings defines our position on religious, political, social, and economic issues. Are we conservative, liberal, middle-of-the-road, or neutral?

The toughest battle in life is for Christian believers. Why? The world we live in is a dangerous place. Not just mentally, emotionally, and physically, but we also face Spiritual Warfare every day that unbelievers know nothing about. Satan has created worldviews that attempt to delude, deceive, dumb us down, and shape us according to his never-changing erroneous concepts.

If you are a follower of Christ and chose a position of conservative, liberal, middle-of-the-road, or neutral then the different buttery consistencies of the various worldviews have resulted in defining you as being a lukewarm Christian. Study Revelation chapter 3, verses 14-19.

Scenario: At lunchtime, a group of coworkers is laughing and having a good time when the question is asked “Doesn’t everyone have the right to be treated fairly and with respect?” Everyone verbalizes in agreement a resounding yes. But then the next question is directed at you, the only Christian in the group, “Can gay couples become members of your church?”

Unless you have a strong relationship with Jesus Christ and have a biblical view from praying, diligently studying the Scriptures, and relying on the Holy Spirit for wisdom every day, you will not know how to answer this question. This is not the time to express your personal beliefs. Quickly think of the silent prayer, Holy Spirit, Help!

Last year, one of my neighbors—a young man who lives an alternative lifestyle asked if he could talk to me. He asked me how did I feel about the fact that he was gay? During our conversation, he expressed that he was severely wounded by Church Hurt and rejected by his Christian family because of his choices. When I explained how much Jesus loved him and I expressed that I loved him too, his tears flowed like a river.

It was not my place to preach to him about his lifestyle. When we tell others that Jesus is love and that He commands us to love everyone, we have fulfilled our duty as disciples of Christ. Study Matthew chapter 28, verses 18-20. Let the Holy Spirit work on their hearts and cleanse them from their unrighteousness. We usually only have one opportunity to demonstrate Jesus’ love to those who are hurting.

In our earthly lives, we are constantly tested in our spiritual walk with Christ. This should help if you are ever confronted with the warfare of conflict. Best Answer: Put your entire focus on Jesus, His love for everyone, and that all are welcome in the Church in which Christ is the foundation. Be courageous and let others know that Jesus is love! Do not give any personal opinions. Just give the facts and do not engage in a lengthy conversation.

Christ has never-ending and unchanging love for us. “A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another: just as I have loved you, you also are to love one another.” (John 13:34).

The church belongs to Christ. “Now, therefore, you are no longer strangers and foreigners, but fellow citizens with the saints and members of the household of God, having been built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ Himself being the chief cornerstone…” (Ephesians 2:19-20).

Christ died for all. “He is the atoning sacrifice for our sins, and not only for ours but also for the sins of the whole world.” (1 John 2:1-2).

What defines us? Having the love of Christ! The Scriptures give us God’s Righteous principles. With prayer, we ask for the Divine Help of the Holy Spirit who transforms us into the Character of Christ and redefines us as Christ’s Disciples.

Jesus, Our Lord and Savior describes Himself to us, “Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me; for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls” (Matthew 11:29).

Scripture: “And do not be conformed to this world [any longer with its superficial values and customs], but be transformed and progressively changed [as you mature spiritually] by the renewing of your mind [focusing on godly values and ethical attitudes], so that you may prove [for yourselves] what the will of God is, that which is good and acceptable and perfect [in His plan and purpose for you].” —Romans 12:2, Amplified Bible

Prayer: God, we ask You to cleanse us from all unrighteousness and anoint us with the power and presence of the Holy Spirit. We pray for a spiritual makeover—that we love one another as You love us. In Jesus’ Holy Name, we pray. Amen.

Not for Sale: Peace of Mind

Not for Sale: Peace of Mind Devotional Reading June 4, 2023

“May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that by the power of the Holy Spirit you may abound in hope.” —Romans 15:13

The pressures of life from routine duties and unexpected events along with constant news regarding the economic decline and increasing social problems and crime on every level have many wishing for an escape from the vicissitudes of an out-of-control world. Van and RV Life has hundreds of individuals and families joining and promoting a lifestyle that promises freedom and peace. And one in five city dwellers is leaving to pursue a simpler life in rural [country] areas.

We can purchase acres of land with silky blades of grass, magnificent shade trees and a brook flowing with clear, cool water, still, peace of mind does not come from placing ourselves in an environment of quiet seclusion or joining the popular nomadic lifestyle. Nor is peace the concerted effort to just breathe or attempt to empty the mind using erroneous man-made techniques.

Yoga, CBD, alcoholic drinks, meditation [that does not include focusing on the Most-High and Holy God], chants, stress-relief gummies, New Age music, relaxation apps, and everything for sale promising peace of mind are feeble attempts to soothe the minds and souls that are disconnected from the Creator God.

New-age is a genre of music intended to create artistic inspiration, relaxation, and optimism. It is used by listeners for yoga, massage, meditation, and reading as a method of stress management to bring about a state of ecstasy rather than trance, or to create a peaceful atmosphere in homes or other environments. Wikipedia

Many Christians financially support the companies that promote these deceptive modalities as providing peace of mind. They are brainwashed because they have accepted the temporary and hypnotic effect on their minds to equal God’s, Divine Peace. A euphoric state of mind easily becomes something that we will desire every day. And they begin to tell others about the wonderful products that produce calming effects on one’s mind.

The Spiritual Warfare of viewing the company’s countless ads on Social Media convince us their peace of mind products will make a difference in our mental and emotional status. With the current social and economic problems we face, Satan knows that humanity is desperate for any semblance of peace. And the profit margins increase as society becomes addicted to anything legal that is promoted to take the edge off and provide “peace of mind”.

Fact Check: When life’s challenges produce stress, we are vulnerable and willing to purchase empty promises. Yet the reality is that peace of mind is not an item that can be bought with a credit card.

What Does it Mean to Have Peace of Mind?
Peace of mind, from a biblical perspective, involves more than just relieving anxiety or stress. It involves your entire soul being at rest (2 Corinthians 2:13) because you’re trusting God (Isaiah 26:3) and presenting your concerns in every situation to God in prayer (Philippians 4:6-7). True peace of mind comes from God, rather than from anyone or anything in the world (John 14:27). Not only does God give people peace, but “he himself is our peace” (Ephesians 2:14). That kind of peace of mind is completely reliable in any circumstances. https://www.crosswalk.com/faith/bible-study/scriptures-on-peace-of-mind.html

The History of Seeking Peace Outside of God: “Their land is full of idols; they bow down to the work of their hands, to what their fingers have made.” —Isaiah 2:8

The pursuit of peace of mind through other methodologies including idol worship is an ancient practice. Even in biblical times, the Israelites were stressed out because God required obedience. So, they embraced alternative lifestyles that enabled them to escape the pressures of living a godly life. The book of Isaiah contains many warnings from God to give up idol worship.

Pagan worship practices have always included the use of mind-altering substances. Many of the Israelites were involved in idol worship which included Child Sacrifice. God had to specifically address this horrible practice, “You shall not give any of your offspring to offer them to Molech…” (Leviticus 18:21). It is impossible for parents with sound and sober minds to sacrifice their children.

“Woe to those who are heroes at drinking wine, and valiant men in mixing strong drink…” Isaiah 5:22.

Why didn’t the Israelites have peace of mind? Most did not love God or desire to serve Him. When comparing God’s Righteous laws to the wicked and pleasurable pagan practices which included substances that produced a temporary state of euphoric peace, they followed their heart’s desires.

Jesus’ Promise: Peace I leave with you, My peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid. John 14:27

Peace is a Spiritual gift from Jesus Christ. The believer is nourished with a life-sustaining inner tranquil calmness despite their external circumstances. Unceasing prayer and diligent study of the Scriptures along with surrender and obedience allow us to receive Jesus’ peace.

Peace is a result of obedience–seeking and striving to live in the perfect will of God. The receiver has met the spiritual criteria of loving God and remaining loyal to Him by always putting God first. Prayers of daily surrender demonstrate our desire to faithfully trust and obey the Creator God. Sweet peace permeates our entire being [mind and soul] when we are aligned with God’s will.

Although obedience to God requires intentional human effort, we cannot achieve true obedience without the intervention of the Holy Spirit. We need Divine help 24/7 to stay on the Path of Righteousness.

“Do not turn aside after worthless things that cannot profit you or deliver you, for they are empty” (1 Samuel 12:21). God’s righteous principles will never change. We seek alternative modalities to give us peace because we do not have the desire to fully surrender and trust and obey God. Deep within our hearts, we know that God does not accept any form of compromise. So, we replace Spiritual peace with purchasing the empty promises of worthless things.

Despite our attempts to bypass God and redefine peace, we will never have true peace of mind without a steadfast relationship with Christ. Satan can manifest many things, but he cannot manifest God’s precious gift of peace. Nor does humanity have the ability to replicate any product that resembles the peace that passes all understanding. Spiritual peace flows from heaven to earth!

Without a relationship with Christ based on love, faith, trust, and obedience, we cannot and will never enjoy the Divine gift of everlasting peace. God’s peace is priceless!

Scripture: “Be anxious for nothing, 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 minds through Christ Jesus.” — Philippians 4:6-7

Jesus’ Prayer of Humility: “Not my will but Your will be done.”

“Jesus, If You Can”

Jesus, If You Can Devotional Reading June 2, 2023

“And often he has thrown him both into the fire and into the water to destroy him. But if You can do anything, have compassion on us and help us. Jesus said to him, ‘If you can believe, all things are possible to him who believes.'” —Mark 9:22-23

Our greatest battle in life is Faith versus Feelings! We have embraced and adopted the worldview of do-it-yourself. Because of self-reliance, our measure of faith has not grown or developed. Many Christians have stopped praying for God’s Divine guidance and help in their routine duties of life. It’s not until a life-changing event that we get on our knees and cry out for God’s help.

Words of Faith, Fear, and Doubt—”But if You can do anything”

Yes, the child’s father had heard of a man and His disciples who could heal. After the disciples failed to heal the young boy because of their faithlessness, the father used all the courage he had to approach Jesus. The disciples’ failure left the man feeling unsure of Jesus’ spiritual power to heal. Yet, he took the risk in front of a crowd of people to ask Jesus if He could heal his son.

In His earthly life, Jesus always exhibited His true love and compassion to those in need. Some biblical translations mislead us to believe that Jesus scolded the child’s father with the response “What do you mean, ‘If I can?’ Jesus asked.” Those condescending words would never be spoken by our Loving Savior!

Our faith in God is being attacked every day. The spiritual warfare that we face includes the misrepresentation of God as punitive—always ready to punish humanity. We know that the fallen angel, Lucifer who is now Satan is responsible for the lies regarding God. Our faith has diminished because we failed to learn of God’s character which is evident throughout the Bible.

Even so, do not let worldviews, your feelings, the opinions of others, the presenting circumstances, or the lack of Scriptural knowledge cause disbelief in the love and power of Jesus Christ!

“Come to Me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me; for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.…” — Matthew 11:28-29

Jesus knows the weaknesses of our hearts and characters. He is aware of the self-reliance and fears that prevent us from coming to Him immediately when we face overwhelming challenges. Yet, He tells us the only way His Divine power can provide absolute resolution to the trials and sorrows we face.

The story of the child with symptoms of epilepsy and his father who decided to courageously approach Jesus with the little faith he had teaches us that when we put our unbelief aside and approach God in prayer, supernatural results happen even though our faith is weak. Our prayers must be spoken in faith, “Jesus, I know You can.”

In Revelation, the Apostle John reveals to us the Character and Majestic Power of Christ: “And when I saw Him, I fell at His feet as dead. But He laid His right hand on me, saying to me, ‘Do not be afraid; I am the First and the Last. I am He who lives, and was dead, and behold, I am alive forevermore. Amen. And I have the keys of Hell and of Death.'” —Revelation 1:18-19

Who else but Jesus can reassure us that His power is so great that He overcame death? And who else but Jesus would die for all of humanity including those who despise, disobey, and have no faith in Him?

“I have loved you with an everlasting love.” With finite understanding, we will never fully comprehend the POWER and Love that Christ has for us. Still, every day we can make the intentional commitment to embrace and verbalize Jesus’ love, be intentional with our faith, and believe His Holy Words.

Prayer: God, we are distracted by the many worldviews that are diminishing our faith in Your power and love for us. We commit to faithfully believing in Your loving character and Your unlimited power. Jesus, we love You. Thank You for Your love, grace, and mercies. In Jesus’ Loving Name, Amen.

Living Beyond Our Expectations

Living Beyond Our Expectations Devotional Reading June 1, 2023

A nomadic movement is sweeping through the United States that is portrayed by Van and RV Life. Many individuals are selling their brick-and-mortar homes to enjoy freedom. Although this lifestyle is appealing because of the ability to live debt-free, major drawbacks include self-centeredness, isolation, and finding a place to safely live off the grid every day.

Nomadic life in its truest sense is usually composed of a family of three generations who are part of a community that views life collectively. Families share and barter and trade with each other. But most importantly, one is never alone! And the movement of relocation is not a spontaneous decision but involves the development of definitive plans to ensure a successful continuity of life.

“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

We can agree that whatever lifestyle we choose has its challenges. Yet many cannot cope with the everyday ups and downs in their lives. They have a constant level of internal chaos that produces feeling overwhelmed even when minor issues arise. Since God has given us certain innate qualities, what has led to our inability to cope and enjoy optimal mental, emotional, and spiritual health?

In highly developed countries the “I” concept—to always put oneself first has negative long-term effects. The unrighteous character traits of selfishness and greed quickly overpower and erase the character trait of love we were created with. Through learned behaviors, we think the normal standard for life is to focus on ourselves without ever thinking of others. The do-it-yourself lifestyle has created subsequent generations who are angry, depressed, anxious, worried, and always discontented with their lives.

The suicide rate increases because the prevailing standards of “No one is coming to help you,” and “just do it” promote unrealistic expectations along with isolation, and a spirit of selfishness. The worldview of pursuing financial success leaves many with abject hopelessness when they are unable to obtain an abundance of money and material things.

God’s plan for the family and Christian community is to love each other and work together in harmony. It takes much effort to live against God’s perfect plans. Attempting to serve God when unrighteous character traits are taking over produces spiritual emptiness. We lose our love and compassion along with the desire to consider the misfortunes of others.

Since God did not create us with a spirit of selfishness our self-focus places undue stress on our mental and emotional health. Drifting away from godly principles leaves us physically weary and we enter a state of spiritual bankruptcy!

“If someone has enough money to live well and sees a brother or sister in need but shows no compassion—how can God’s love be in that person?” —1 John 3:17

To live beyond one’s expectations does not include the pursuit of wealth and prosperity. God created us with the “We” concept to think of the needs of others. Until the Christian community embraces our duty to help others, we will never receive God’s blessings or have the character of Christ which is a must to receive the reward of eternal life. Our desire to live beyond our expectations happens when we embrace and practice God’s righteous principles of loving and helping others!

Scripture: We didn’t bring anything into this world, and we won’t take anything with us when we leave. So we should be satisfied just to have food and clothes. People who want to be rich fall into all sorts of temptations and traps. They are caught by foolish and harmful desires that drag them down and destroy them. The love of money causes all kinds of trouble. Some people want money so much they have given up their faith and caused themselves a lot of pain. —1 Timothy 6:7-10, CEV

Prayer: God, we pray for the change of our selfish hearts into one that portrays the character and righteousness of Christ. In Jesus’ Worthy name, we pray, Amen.

Our Identity in Christ is Priceless!

Our Identity in Christ is Priceless! Devotional Reading

Many adopted children desire to meet their biological parents, yet the need to meet or know their biological mother is usually overwhelming. Although our opinions may differ regarding the need to meet a stranger who did not raise their child, we often forget that we were created to have a natural attachment based on the foundation of love and to have a codependent relationship with our biological parents.

“Everyone who is called by My name, Whom I have created for my glory, I have formed him, yes, I have made him.” —Isaiah 43:7

We were also created to have a strong and loving bond with Jesus our Heavenly Father who created us to have a forever relationship with Him. Our prayers, Bible study, and praise and worship activities allow us to form an unbreakable bond with Christ. Through the Scriptures, we learn that we are supposed to totally rely on God for guidance through this journey of life.

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

With steadfast faith and experiential knowledge of the Bible, we acquiesce to God and come to enjoy our relationship with Christ based on total dependency. Through the Scriptures, we learn the role of Christ and our role in the Plan of Salvation. The immense value that God places on humanity is evident in John 3:16, “For God so loved the world that He gave His only Son…”

Every believer should possess high self-esteem based on whom God says we are. Sadly, we have a very low value on ourselves because of a scriptural lack of knowledge.

The LORD [Jesus Christ] told young Jeremiah, “Before I formed you in the womb I knew you; Before you were born I sanctified you; I ordained you a prophet to the nations.” —Jeremiah 1:5

Our spiritual status, spiritual gifts, and natural talents are predetermined by God even before we are conceived. “Fear not, for I have redeemed you; I have called you by your name; You are Mine” (Isaiah 43:1, last part). We are sons and daughters of the King—a royal priesthood. If we truly believe in our status with God then why do we perceive ourselves as worthless?

The compromising choices we make reflect our lack of faith in God and our internal low self-value. Because we have little to no knowledge of our Spiritual Father we focus on worldviews instead of biblical promises. The question “Who Am I?” is answered throughout the Bible. King David proclaimed, “I will praise You, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made; Marvelous are Your works, And that my soul knows very well” (Psalm 139:14).

When our desires and plans exclude God we reveal the free will choice to reject Christ and our royal status. Our choice of self-reliance causes us to create a life of pretense—that everything is going well—to fool others. Even the proud and haughty unbelievers redefine themselves to appear as having a perfect life. Yet, their hearts are saturated with negativity and low self-esteem because they do not know who God is and the value He places on them.

Who Am I?

“Then God said, ‘Let Us make man in Our image, according to Our likeness; let them have dominion over the fish of the sea, over the birds of the air, and over the cattle, over all the earth and over every creeping thing that creeps on the earth. So God created man in His own image; in the image of God He created him; male and female He created them. Then God blessed them, and God said to them, Be fruitful and multiply; fill the earth and subdue it; have dominion over the fish of the sea, over the birds of the air, and over every living thing that moves on the earth.” —Genesis 1:26-28

Created with the cognitive power to reason, the ability to love, express emotions, a unique set of fingerprints and footprints, with heart and lungs that need no human intervention to function, to dream, set goals, but most importantly to have a relationship with the Most-High God. As if that is more than we deserve, we will also receive immortality and live in a perfect world when Jesus comes again.

Through prayer and studying the Holy Scriptures, our awareness of “Who am I’ increases. We learn our immense value because we know that we know Jesus sacrificed His life for our redemption. God has given humanity a life with perks, angels that fight and provide protection from Satan and his evil angels along with the ability to call on God 24 hours a day, seven days a week through prayer.

We have a spiritual blueprint and a treasure map—the Holy Bible where we learn of God’s loving character and His reward for the faithful and obedient righteous. The Holy Spirit is our Teacher and Comforter imparting spiritual strength, wisdom, and guidance from a whispering prayer asking for Divine Help.

Surrendering our will is the only way to have a solid foundation built on Christ. Through surrender our spiritual eyes are opened, and we no longer seek second-hand choices for our lives. Having a loving relationship with Christ ensures that we know our value—Sons and Daughters of King Jesus! Never again will we have to compromise by attempting to choose the best options that bring adverse consequences.

Prayer: God, we pray for those who are suffering the consequences of self-reliance. Our prayer is for the brokenhearted who have a low self-value because they have excluded You from their lives. We admit that humanity can do nothing without Your Divine Intervention. We also pray for the humility to surrender to Your will and plans. In Jesus’s name, we pray, Amen.

Moral Courage Required

Moral Courage is Required Devotional Reading May 30, 2023

“If you do not stand for something then you will fall for anything.” Yes, that sounds reasonable but what qualifies “something”? The statement is a reference to our moral character which is influenced by learned behaviors, life experience, people, theories, and opinions. Still, most importantly the concepts of right and wrong, the standards of truth and error, and the value system that we embrace define our moral character.

“We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness.” Declaration of Independence, Excerpt, July 4, 1776

Everyone’s moral character varies because human-made standards are imperfect. The right to pursue happiness, which is inherent to every individual, differs from person to person. Although it may not make rational sense, some individuals claim that having extramarital affairs or remaining in an unhealthy relationship brings them happiness. The downside of pursuing happiness is that our hearts are never satisfied!

Interestingly, when asked what would bring happiness to their lives, most people answered that having more money would provide the ultimate level of happiness. “No one can serve two masters; for either he will hate the one and love the other, or else he will be loyal to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve God and mammon [material wealth]” (Matthew 6:24).

Humanity’s overall moral character has bottomed out. And sadly, we keep falling deeper into the abyss of corruption. Our desire for happiness and the actions that we are willing to do for the pursuit of happiness are shocking. Unfortunately, some have compromised their values and engaged in illegal activities such as dealing drugs, scams, hacking, embezzlement, and other crimes in the pursuit of happiness.

We may not be a criminal from a legal perspective, but there is a more serious issue if we are wilfully sinning against the Most-High God. Although Jesus promised us joy and peace, and He desires that we have happy and healthy lives, we were never told to pursue our definitions of individual happiness.

“But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you” (Matthew 6:33). Our crime of disobedience originates from the innate condition of a deceitful heart [read Jeremiah 17:9].

Reflection: “What am I willing to do to satisfy my desire for happiness?”

“Now the serpent was more crafty than any of the wild animals the Lord God had made. He said to the woman, Did God really say, ‘You must not eat from any tree in the garden’?” —Genesis 3:1, NIV

The worldview of living according to our desires and feelings has also pervaded the Christian community. We think, “Did God really say? ” or we self-interpret the Scriptures with compromising minds. Our inner conflict gradually becomes overwhelming. We desire eternal life but not at the price that God’s righteous standards require—total obedience. So, we live to pursue our definition of happiness.

Take Up Your Cross and Follow Jesus—”Then Jesus told his disciples, ‘If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross and follow me. For whoever would save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for my sake will find it. For what will it profit a man if he gains the whole world and forfeits his soul? Or what shall a man give in return for his soul?” —Matthew 16:24-26

It takes Moral Courage to Surrender Our Will! It takes Moral Courage to Follow Jesus! It takes Moral Courage to Overcome and Receive the Reward of Eternal Life!

Moral Courage: Possessing virtue [high righteous standards] and having the desire to act according to God’s Truth by striving to pursue a life of Righteousness by Faith which requires standing for what is right against all opposition and every adversity.

Moral Courage is Required

To Love God and Put Him First
To Love God, Others, and Yourself
To Surrender to God’s Will
To Remain Faithful and Obedient
To Trust God in Adversity
To Hear and Recognize God’s Voice
To Pray for the Holy Spirit’s Guidance
To Receive Wisdom and Understanding
To Stay in His Presence
To Pray Continuously
To Study the Holy Scriptures Every Day
To Remain Loyal to God
To Renounce Sin and its Pleasures
To Give Up Worldviews
To Leave Family and Friends
To Face the Opposition of Spiritual Warfare
To Ask for the Presence and Power of the Holy Spirit
To be Victorious Against All Odds
To Prepare Daily for that Great Day

Moral Courage is Required to Persevere in the Spiritual Journey

Scripture: “Be faithful until death, and I will give you the crown of life.” —Revelation 2:10 [last part]. “He who overcomes shall be clothed in white garments, and I will not blot out his name from the Book of Life, but I will confess his name before My Father and before His angels.” —Revelation 3:5

Prayer: God, we pray for the strength to possess the moral courage to serve You until our last breath. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Through Broken Hearts, God Fulfills His Plans and Promises

We listen to many sermons, but we must agree that some sermons immediately penetrate our hearts [which represents our minds]. Not only do these spoken words change our perception, but they also allow us to see beyond our present circumstances.

“Through a broken heart, God brings His Purposes and Plans to pass in our lives. Pray and Thank God for His Divine Intervention. And look forward to healing and moving forward.” Pastor Wintley Phipps

We serve an Omniscient God who knows every situation that will cause pain and sorrow. Although the Holy Spirit always gives us warnings not to make that certain decision, our Heavenly Father is aware that we were born with a carnal nature that compels us to chase the desires of our hearts. Sadly, we choose to do things our way never thinking that the results will produce a negative outcome including a broken heart.

“For a righteous person falls seven times and rises again, But the wicked stumble in time of disaster.” —Proverbs 24:16

Whether we reflect on the disobedient choices we made in our lives which produced devastating consequences or we were rescued by God’s divine intervention [due to lack of knowledge or someone intentionally deceived us] and did not suffer the catastrophic results that should have happened, we can thank God that He never leaves us or forsakes us in our time of remorse and sorrows.

“The LORD is near to the brokenhearted; He saves the contrite in spirit.” —Psalm 34:18. “He heals the brokenhearted And binds up their wounds [healing their pain and comforting their sorrow].” —Psalm 147:3, Amplified Bible

With confession and repentance—godly sorrow with a covenant vow not to repeat the same behaviors and actions—God moves us forward in our healing journey. Our Gracious and Merciful Heavenly Father promises to bring restoration when we have the faith and desire to obey.

“Forget the former things; do not dwell on the past. See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it? I am making a way in the wilderness and streams in the wasteland.” —Isaiah 43:18-19

We can believe in the power of God to heal the pain and sorrow in our broken hearts. God’s Word is unfailing. His promises will come to fruition in your life. I have experienced this firsthand – when God intervenes, not only does He heal your heart, but He also performs supernatural miracles and brings about a victorious outcome. Trust in Him always!

Prayer: God, we confess and repent that we made choices that excluded Your blessings. Right now, we are suffering overwhelming consequences including pain and sorrow. We ask You to heal our broken hearts and to make us well as only You can. We pray for the restoration of our mental and emotional health and to repair our mistakes. We give You honor, glory, and praise. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Moving Forward Always Requires Transitions

Moving Forward Always Requires Transitions Devotional Reading

Many of us aspire to grow both professionally and personally, but often, we become discouraged when faced with the difficulties that come with growth. To progress, one must surpass their usual limits to successfully adapt to the various phases of transition. Whether we agree with the process [which may be short or lengthy] embracing continuous change is always required to achieve a victorious outcome.

Except for spiritual growth, the areas in which we require growth differ for each person. Yes, we must stretch ourselves beyond the ordinary routine of life by expanding our knowledge base to achieve optimal growth and development. Learning credible information, pursuing academic degrees, developing creative skills, embracing a healthy lifestyle, starting a garden, and reflecting on current relationships to assess if they are healthy are some of the ways that we indicate the desire to live our best lives.

Embracing the need for growth and development and taking the steps to achieve said goals results in the joy and happiness of possessing optimal mental, emotional, and physical health. However, it is important to acknowledge that creating strategies to accomplish both short-term and long-term objectives provides us with the confidence that we are progressing intentionally and at our preferred speed.

Wouldn’t life be wonderful if we had the opportunity to live as projected and prevent unexpected setbacks?

“I have told you all this so that you may have peace in me. Here on earth, you will have many trials and sorrows. But take heart, because I have overcome the world.” —John 16:33

Reflection: What steps have I taken to ensure that I could move forward from an unplanned life-changing event? Even with emergency-preparedness plans, when the storm hits the area, modifications are required. Except for God, our future is unknown. Yet, we have received God-given qualities along with the ability to pray for Divine Help to endure and persevere through life’s trials and tribulations.

“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

In the course of our lives, we will face unexpected changes that may lead us in a different direction, often impeding our ability to accomplish set plans and goals. Unless we regroup and face the necessary challenges to push us forward, resulting in progress, we will view the life change as negative and impossible to overcome. Holding on to bitter, angry, fearful, and sorrowful thoughts produces roadblocks that cancel our God-given resilience to move forward.

Without determination, our thoughts will become counterproductive and result in a mindset that dwells on the past. It is often easier to reminisce about memories [perceived or real] of better times and become stagnant, rather than persevering with the courage to develop new strategies and forge ahead on a different path.

When studying Genesis, we learn of the Fall of Man. Yes, it was a choice for Adam and Eve to sin, but God never left them alone to make the painful transition from their perfect garden home to a new life that included suffering the unexpected. “Also for Adam and his wife the Lord God made tunics of skin, and clothed them” (Genesis 3:21). Even in our disobedience, God’s love never changes.

The Promise: “It is the Lord who goes before you. He will be with you; he will not leave you or forsake you. Do not fear or be dismayed.” —Deuteronomy 31:8

We need the rock-solid spiritual foundation that diligent Bible study and much praying provide to endure the struggle of transitioning—planned or unexpected. Knowing God’s promises and praying for the anointing, power, and presence of the Holy Spirit gives us Divine strength and provides us with the spiritual reinforcement necessary to face our challenges for the growth that moving forward requires.

Christians have a life that includes continuous transitions on a spiritual level. Sanctification is the lifelong spiritual process of our character being molded into the character of Christ. To grow spiritually, we must pray for the help of the Holy Spirit every day!

It is crucial to understand that the Scriptures about love, forgiveness, and the Fruit of the Spirit are not optional. Moving forward requires spiritual growth and development that prepares us to transition from our earthly lives to our heavenly reward of eternal life. Christ’s life on earth exemplified His faithfulness and obedience to God, His Father, as He constantly prayed for God’s will to be done.

Whether by necessity [spiritual growth], choice [personal growth], or facing the unexpected, our lives will always be victorious if we choose to include God’s divine intervention while transitioning. The creation of humanity included a Divine blueprint for continuous growth. It is the will of God that we possess the highest level of spiritual, mental, and emotional development, and optimal physical health.

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

Prayer: God, we pray for Your Divine Help as we face the many transitions in our lives. We admit that we cannot go through this journey of life without You. Thank You for hearing and answering our prayer that we ask in the Worthy Name of Jesus, Amen.

Choosing Jesus Places Us in Spiritual Warfare—Preparing for Battle

Choosing Jesus Places Us in Spiritual Warfare Devotional Reading

“Having a form of godliness but denying its power. And from such people turn away…always learning and never able to come to the knowledge of the truth”…2 Timothy 3:5, 7

From the many generations that have lived since humanity was created a little over 6,000 years ago, the 21st century Christians are living in the most critical spiritual period of earth’s history. Every condition the apostle Paul describes in 2nd Timothy chapter 3, verses one to seven exists for today’s believers. Additionally, Paul tells us that we will have trouble discerning who is really a faithful follower of Christ.

Why are we so easily deceived? To be a follower of Christ requires much prayer, diligent Bible study, faith, obedience, courage, and a listening spiritual ear to hear God’s plans and will for our lives. Truthfully, most of us fall short of the requirements to armor up for our spiritual battles. “Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord and in the power of His might. Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the wiles [tricks, deceptions] of the devil” (Ephesians 6:10-11).

The desire to be a middle-of-the-road Christian [which will never exist] causes us to fulfill our heart’s desires and to serve God according to our whims. Without biblical knowledge and guidance from the Holy Spirit, Satan easily deceives us into compromising God’s righteous standards resulting in the loss of receiving God’s perfect blessings and eternal life.

“For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, saith the Lord, thoughts of peace, and not of evil, to give you an expected end.” —Jeremiah 29:11

Misaligned with the Will of God Through Disobedience

Two roadblocks cause us to detour from the Path of Righteousness: Seeking earthly desires [money, success, houses, vehicles, luxury items, etc.], and desiring relationships and marriage with partners that are either unbelievers or those who believe in God, attend church, but their lifestyles reveal they are worldly.

It is comforting to know that God’s righteous standards never change. With His omniscience, God will not grant us a new home or vehicle if our job is soon to end, nor will He provide us with a half-hearted, uncommitted spouse who would bring turmoil into our lives. Without complete surrender to His will, we cannot attain the wisdom to be wholeheartedly devoted and find refuge in God’s protection.

Sooner or later our disobedience will bring heartache. Living outside of God’s plans always results in negative consequences.

The Second Roadblock: True Worship versus False Worship

“Then a herald cried aloud: ‘To you, it is commanded, O peoples, nations, and languages, that at the time you hear the sound of the horn, flute, harp, lyre, and psaltery, in symphony with all kinds of music, you shall fall down and worship the gold image that King Nebuchadnezzar has set up; and whoever does not fall down and worship shall be cast immediately into the midst of a burning fiery furnace.'” —Daniel 3:4-6

Their Response: Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-Nego answered and said to the king, O Nebuchadnezzar, we have no need to answer you in this matter. If that is the case, our God whom we serve is able to deliver us from the burning fiery furnace, and He will deliver us from your hand, O king. But if not, let it be known to you, O king, that we do not serve your gods, nor will we worship the gold image which you have set up. —Daniel 3:16-18

Personal Testimony: Although I was raised in a Christian home, the church we belonged to taught their members a mixture of easily understood Scriptures along with a lot of self-interpreted erroneous false teachings. Please know that I am not criticizing the Pastor or my parents. Because the Bible is God’s Truth, complete with righteous thoughts, spiritual precepts, and symbolism the reader must pray for the Holy Spirit to give them wisdom and discernment.

“But the Helper, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in My name, He will teach you all things, and bring to your remembrance all things that I said to you” (John 14:26).

Satan knows that his time is short on this earth, so he has increased widespread false teachings through individuals that love God but have not prayed for the anointing power, and presence of the Holy Spirit to give them correct discernment of God’s Truth. Membership is highest at the churches that conduct services that only involve singing without any Scriptural teachings. We cannot believe every reel, message, or post on social media. Pray before you listen to any religious content.

Sadly, the chaos within the Christian community is impacting our ability to witness to others. Those who are interested in serving God are verbalizing that Christians are always in constant disagreement with each other. Prosperity, Politics, and Prejudice are promoted and tolerated in many loveless churches whose duty is to proclaim Christ’s love. Most denominations are in opposition with each other over the Scriptures. Yet, we do not have to be deceived. God has provided us with Divine Help!

“Beloved, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits, whether they are of God; because many false prophets have gone out into the world.” —1 John 4:1

Our mass confusion stems from the many false teachings spread throughout Christianity, such as messages of prosperity [God desires for us to be wealthy] and all-inclusive theories—because of grace a person is guaranteed eternal life in heaven [whether they sin or not]. Additionally, without biblical proof, most churches are teaching that God changed the seventh-day creation Sabbath from Saturday to Sunday.

“For I am the Lord, I do not change…” —Malachi 3:6, the first part

These teachings focus on the human heart’s desires rather than salvation in Christ and Scriptural proof. Satan will continue to spread these false teachings until the end of time. Yet, the book of Revelation proclaims that Jesus Wins and Satan Loses. We will not receive our reward of eternal life collectively. Every person has to answer before God in Judgment for their wrongdoings. Either we will be Sealed by Christ’s Righteousness or accept the Mark of the Beast which is false worship.

We can be on the winning side in this spiritual battle! Put on your Spiritual Armor! Increase praying. Devote study time to the Scriptures. Take the time to have quiet meditation. The Holy Spirit is waiting for us to ask for His help!

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

Prayer: God, we pray for those who are in the valley of decision to take a stand to become steadfast Soldiers in Your Army. We pray for the outpouring of the Holy Spirit in our lives. Give us wisdom and discernment as we seek knowledge. Jesus, we thank You for Your love, grace, mercy, and salvation. And ask this prayer in Your Most Holy Name, Amen.

Trusting God’s Divine Love and Wisdom

Daily Devotional Reading—May 24, 2023

“When the time is right, I the Lord will make it happen.” —Isaiah 60:22

Our hearts always demand immediate gratification. Although God provides our daily necessities, the majority of God’s blessings are placed on hold to be given at the right time. “Wait on the Lord; Be of good courage, And He shall strengthen your heart; Wait, I say, on the Lord!” (Psalm 27:14). Our test of faith and obedience is demonstrated by waiting on the Lord.

When we love, honor, and reverence God as the Sovereign Ruler of our lives, we naturally exhibit qualities such as faith, trust, patience, and obedience. It’s important to resist the temptation to prioritize our own instincts and desires over God’s divine wisdom. Instead, we should embrace humility and surrender to God’s plans and His Omniscience, which demonstrate the highest level of trust in our devoted Heavenly Father who always wants what’s best for us.

Prayer: God, we trust Your perfect plans for our lives. Thank You for Your great love, grace, and mercies. In Jesus’ Name, we pray, Amen.