Tag: Faith Love Trust Obedience

Being a Christian Is Tough!!!

Historically, the United States Marine Corps had a catchphrase, The Few, The Proud, Always Faithful. The Corps has always boasted that only those who achieve excellence [which requires going beyond human strength] become Marines.

As an outsider looking in, I am challenging their proclamation that becoming a Marine is the highest victory that one can achieve in life. Yes, they withstood the grueling environments, but once they have completed their enlistment or retirement from the Corps, they can live according to their dictates.

The Toughest Journey in Life: Christianity Requires Human Effort Plus Divine Intervention to Succeed Because Our Spiritual Journey lasts a Lifetime. Once we become soldiers in the Army of God, we are always soldiers [if we remain faithful].

Accepting Jesus as our personal Savior with earnest conviction is Conversion. And then the grueling journey begins! Endurance and perseverance through the hard times of suffering that may last for months or years is God’s spiritual process of Sanctification which takes a lifetime.

Jesus forewarned what would happen when we decided to become a soldier in God’s Army: “I have told you these things, so that in Me you may have [perfect] peace. In the world, you have tribulation and distress and suffering, but be courageous [be confident, be undaunted, be filled with joy]; I have overcome the world.” [My conquest is accomplished, My victory abiding.] –John 16:33, Amplified Bible.

Military soldiers complete their enlistment unless they receive an early honorable [based on medical diagnoses] or a dishonorable discharge. AWOL–Not completing one’s enlistment time is a criminal act.

Becoming a Christian does not mean one will stay a Christian. The Apostle Paul tells us there will be a great apostasy–falling away from God before Jesus comes.

Now, brethren, concerning the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ and our gathering together to Him, we ask you not to be soon shaken in mind or troubled …Let no one deceive you by any means; for that Day will not come unless the falling away comes first, and the man of sin is revealed, the son of perdition…(2 Thessalonians 2:1-3).

The continuous cycle of unexpected harsh trials or chasing carnal desires causes many to fall away. We do not understand that our characters are being changed for a perfect and holy life for eternity. Suffering is the way we can become righteous. Those who fail to endure trials and tribulations will not receive their heavenly reward of eternal life.

But the cowardly, unbelieving, abominable, murderers, sexually immoral, sorcerers, idolaters, and all liars shall have their part in the lake which burns with fire and brimstone, which is the second death. –Revelation 21:8

Yet the Apostle John says there is another group of Christians who made it first on the long list of sinners–the cowards—those who are fearful will also miss out on eternal life. Those who deny Christ, as evidenced by their cowardly actions–take the side of the opposers by verbal agreement or remain silent when controversial subjects such as pro-choice arise. Cowardly Christians do not stand for the truth around their friends because they fear rejection.

An example of falling away: Living a double life by attending church weekly but sinning on demand because you love pleasure. God will not interfere in our decision not to serve Him.

Some situations call for immediate spiritual intervention. Christians who become overwhelmed with their trials and those who are confused about the Biblical truth because they do not understand the role of the Holy Spirit are the first to fall away from God. Praying for yourself must be done first, but additional spiritual counseling from a pastor or a fellow believer who is a steadfast prayer warrior is also needed.

When fear overpowers our minds, it indicates a loss of faith in God. Christians who fear persecution from unbelievers, rejection from family members and friends, do not believe angels keep us safe by fighting spiritual warfare, are afraid of spontaneous demon possession, and fear the Second Coming of Jesus are just a few examples of cowardice.

Because fear is based on our mental perception, not even therapeutic counseling can eliminate our fear. Sadly, fearful Christians are at the highest risk for apostasy. Only faith can erase fear!

“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.

The Apostle Paul mentored young Timothy as Pastor of the Early Church. When Paul was imprisoned, Timothy was afraid that he would also have to endure persecution. Paul’s spiritual reminder to Timothy was a loving but stern rebuke reminding him of our spiritual gifts and responsibilities to Christ.

God does not expect us to do the impossible. He never created us to bear our earthly burdens without Jesus’ Divine Intervention. When we are at our limits, trapped by out-of-control emotions, and ready to give up, pray, Jesus, I cannot stay on this journey without Your help.

Something happens when we call on the name of Jesus for help—the Holy Spirit arrives immediately, and extra angels are sent from heaven to fight the spiritual warfare we are going through. Study Daniel chapter 9.

When you are ready to throw your Christianity–relationship with Jesus away, go to a quiet place to be alone and take a bottle of water with you. Drink the water. And then pray and cry out to Jesus, our Lord and Savior. His promise, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness” (2 Corinthians 12:8). Close your eyes and believe that your prayer has been sent faster than the speed of light to Jesus, Our Heavenly Intercessor.

If you quietly wait, you will feel the rush of a Mighty Wind–the Holy Spirit imparting spiritual, mental, emotional, and physical strength to your mind and body. And then make certain that you pray a prayer of gratitude.

To my brothers and sisters, I am not writing a fictional story or referencing biblical history. This is my testimony of a meltdown experience today. I felt that the vicissitudes in my life were too overwhelming. And I reacted first instead of praying immediately. Still, through my tears, I began to ask Jesus for His help. The power of God brought spiritual strength to my mind and body. I started singing, grabbed my laptop, and started writing these words of encouragement.

We do not have to be ashamed of our weaknesses. Yet, we must present ourselves to Jesus through prayer.

Yes, the struggle is real, but Victory through Jesus is guaranteed! We have come too far to give up. Praying several times a day during peaceful times enables us to develop a lifestyle of prayer and reliance on God. Even when the overwhelming trials come, our first response will be to pray. Jesus never fails!

Bible Study: John chapter 17

Prayer: God, we thank You for your Love and Divine Intervention. We bring our burdens to You in faith. We know that You will take them and will deliver us. We pray for the patience to wait on Your timing. Anoint us with the power of the Holy Spirit so we can view life through spiritual eyes. For Yours is the Kingdom, the Power, and the Glory. In Jesus’ name, we have victory. Hallelujah! Amen!

Great is God’s Faithfulness!

Let us search out and examine our ways, and turn back to the LORD. Lamentations 3:40.

Every day, we receive great mercies, which we often take for granted. Bless the LORD when you awaken. Like the blind beggar who was told to be quiet, Cry louder, Son of David, have mercy on me. Praise our loving, Heavenly Father for He deserves something in return for His gifts of daily mercies to us. Amen.

Praise God for His Faithfulness

No Bible Study Equals the Practice of False Teachings

Devotional Reading–No Bible Study Equals the Practice of False Teachings

There has always been a dividing line among Christians–those who believe in God and obey Him and those who believe in God, yet do not obey Him. But in the past five years, something extraordinary has developed and escalated to disproportionate numbers–we now have Christians who do not believe studying the Bible is necessary for Salvation and Sanctification.

Fact: “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

The entire Bible–Old and New Testament was given to holy men by God.

False Teachings: We do not have to study the Old Testament. The Ten Commandments are no longer valid including the Creation seventh-day Sabbath. Immortality is given when humans die. All people except the extremely wicked will go to heaven. Attending church once a week indicates that we are doing our part in the plan of Salvation.

Fact: “Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path.” –Psalm 119:105

We require daily spiritual guidance from God. Without instruction, we slip into darkness because we no longer need to be led by the Voice of God.

Fact: “Sanctify them by Your truth. Your word is truth” (John 17:17).

Sanctification is daily spiritual growth–conversion and transformation into the likeness of Christ [His Character]. The human effort of worshipping God through prayer, diligent Bible study, and surrender and obedience to the will of God is a lifetime spiritual journey.

False Beliefs: Since our bodies are the temple of the Holy Spirit, we do not have to do anything additional to be led by God. If I memorize the Scriptures, then I do not have to keep studying–Head knowledge is placed as a priority over a heart-to-heart relationship with Christ.

Fact: “Be doers of the word, and not hearers only. Otherwise, you are deceiving yourselves. For anyone who hears the word but does not carry it out is like a man who looks at his face in a mirror, and after observing himself goes away and immediately forgets what he looks like.…” James 1:22-24, BSB

Fact: “The heart is deceitful above all things, And desperately wicked; Who can know it?” (Jeremiah 17:9). We cannot rely on self-rule.

Fact: “And then he added, “It is what comes from inside that defiles you. For from within, out of a person’s heart, come evil thoughts, sexual immorality, theft, murder, adultery, greed, wickedness, deceit, lustful desires, envy, slander, pride, and foolishness. All these vile things come from within; they are what defile you” (Mark 7:20-23).

False Beliefs: God understands that we cannot live holy. Since we are covered by God’s grace, just repent for your sins that you can’t stop doing.

Fact: “Then God said, ‘Let Us make man in Our image, according to Our likeness…'” (Genesis 1:26).

Yes, we were created in the image of God. Still, we are not demigods. Our minds are finite with great limitations. We require daily guidance, wisdom, and discernment that only comes from the Holy Spirit–we ask for these things through prayer. The spiritual warfare that we face every day is fought by our guardian angels [Read Psalm chapter 91].

Fact: “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)

To know God’s thoughts and ways, we rely on our Teacher’s daily anointing and guidance–the Holy Spirit who discerns the Scriptures and instructs us in our daily lives to do our Heavenly Father’s will.

Fact: “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).

The issue of our spiritual standing with God is serious. Jesus says that we must depend on Him to bear fruit–righteous thoughts, actions, and living.

Obedience is humanity’s greatest obstacle. We cannot live according to our desires and expect to receive the reward that Jesus promised. Christ explains that our dependency on Him is like becoming a little child with faith and trust in their parents. Having a thriving relationship with Jesus is easy when it flows from the love in our hearts.

Fact: I Am Coming Quickly! “He who testifies to these things says, ‘Surely I am coming quickly. Amen. Even so, come, Lord Jesus!'” (Revelation 22:20).

The times we live in are perilous. Evaluate your priorities. God must be first! Our time of 24 hours is sufficient to perform our activities of daily living and to have time to worship God every day.

Daily Worship is not an option for Christian believers. We must have a steadfast relationship with Jesus Christ. Make a covenant promise to fully surrender and obey God. Pray for the anointing of the Holy Spirit–Our Teacher to possess wisdom and discernment of the Holy Scriptures. Study to learn the character of God, His promises, and His expectations for us to live righteously.

Prayer: God, we confess that we have not studied the Scriptures. We ask for forgiveness of our stubborn hearts. Anoint us with Your Holy Spirit. We thank You and give You the honor and glory that You deserve. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.

The Worship Hierarchy–Bless the Lord

Devotional Reading—The Worship Hierarchy—Bless the Lord

Bless the LORD, O my soul, And all that is within me, Bless His holy name! –Psalm 103:1

When we look at God’s Hierarchy, God, the Father, Jesus Christ, His Son, the Holy Spirit, the angels, humanity, and animals, it is evident that God created His Kingdom based upon a “We” [collective] standard. We were created from love and to have healthy interdependent relationships with the Trinity Godhead and with each other.

The individualistic mindset of “I” was not a concept of God’s original plan and will never exist in the spiritual realm. Placing oneself as a priority produces a selfish heart and distorts our outlook on life. Striving to place himself as one of the Trinity Godhead, Lucifer’s prideful heart brought chaos into heaven.

Now war arose in heaven, Michael and his angels fighting against the dragon. And the dragon and his angels fought back, but he was defeated, and there was no longer any place for them in heaven. And the great dragon was thrown down, that ancient serpent, who is called the devil and Satan, the deceiver of the whole world—he was thrown down to the earth, and his angels were thrown down with him (Revelation 12:7-9, ESV)

The repercussions of Lucifer’s sins of pride and disobedience have infiltrated humanity, resulting in an internal conflict between God’s hierarchy and Satan’s hierarchy for thousands of years. As a result of our acceptance of the worldview of individualism, we are plagued with mental and emotional issues of low self-value, anxiety, worries, discontentment, and discouragement.

Many people are wandering through life without a sense of spiritual purpose so they attempt to calm their inner fears and turmoil by chasing after material possessions and engaging in unhealthy relationships. Despite the negative consequences of placing oneself as a priority, many accept the worldview of individualism as evidence of strength and empowerment.

Collectivist: relating to the practice or principle of giving a group priority over each individual in it.

The Biblical Worldview: “Now the LORD God said, “It is not good (beneficial) for the man to be alone; I will make him a helper [one who balances him—a counterpart who is] suitable and complementary for him” (Genesis 2:18).

Throughout the Bible, we have evidence [God’s numerous promises] that God did not create us to be alone nor has He ever left us to fend for ourselves.

“The Lord himself goes before you and will be with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged” (Deuteronomy 31:8).

“I will never leave you or forsake you “I will send you the Helper from the Father” (John 15:26).

“Keep your life free from love of money, and be content with what you have, for he has said, ‘I will never leave you nor forsake you.” “So we can confidently say, ‘The Lord is my helper, I will not fear, what can man do to me?’” (Hebrews 13:5-6).

God’s original plan is for us to live in harmony with His precepts. In the book of Malachi, God says that He never changes.

Have the Attitude of Christ

“Don’t be selfish; don’t try to impress others. Be humble, thinking of others as better than yourselves. Don’t look out only for your own interests, but take an interest in others, too. You must have the same attitude that Christ Jesus had.” –Philippians 2:3-5, NLT

Jesus’ life of blessing others revealed His love and the desire to bless God by always giving His Father glory and honor. Jesus created us to love God, love others, and love ourselves—which is the only hierarchy that God approves of. Our Savior’s life was one of self-sacrifice. Jesus lived to help others by teaching them the love of God and providing the necessity of food along with spiritual, mental, emotional, and physical healing. Remember that Jesus, the Son of Man always put God, His Father first, and then the needs of others. Never once, did Christ place Himself above others.

Perform a self-evaluation of your mindset and values. Are they in alignment with the Biblical Worldview of collectivism? Yes, God has given us free will of choice. We can live according to our worldviews and interpretation of God’s Truth, yet, our individual choice will impact our destiny of receiving the reward of eternal life. The world as we know it, with the conflicting worldview of individualism, “Looking out for number one” will not have a place in the Kingdom of God in the New Heaven and New Earth.

Changing our mindset from I to We requires humility and obedience. With God, all things are possible. Jesus has promised to finish the work in us [Philippians 1:6] if we do our part in striving after righteousness. Live to serve! Placing the needs of others as a priority is an outward sign of the internal condition of our hearts. Our love for God is evidenced by blessing others. God is truly blessed by our desire to bring honor and glory to Him. “Bless the LORD, O my soul, And forget not all His benefits…” (Psalm 103:2).

Bible Study: Matthew chapter 5, verses 1-12

Prayer: God, we have lost our way by accepting worldviews that conflict with Your precepts to live righteously. And for this sin, we ask forgiveness. We pray for a change of heart that we will live to bless others as You did. Thank You for loving us. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.

The Cry: Lord Save Me!

Devotional Reading: The Cry: Lord Save Me!

Most of us have reached a crossroads in our lives when we faced a health or financial crisis impacting ourselves or a family member. At that point, we realize that the situation is critical and that only Christ can resolve the dilemma. We cry out in prayer, “Lord, help me! Yet, a major barrier still exists–our faithlessness in God. Most likely, we are asking for the crisis to be resolved not for God to save our souls.

Three men in the Scriptures demonstrated that they faithfully believed in Jesus Christ.

  1. King David: “In Your righteousness deliver me and rescue me; Incline Your ear to me and save me” (Psalm 71:2).
  2. The blind beggar: “So he called out, ‘Jesus, Son of David, have mercy on me!’ Those who led the way admonished him to be silent, but he cried out all the louder, ‘Son of David, have mercy on me!’” (Luke 18:38-39)
  3. The thief on the cross: “Then he said to Jesus, ‘Lord, remember me when You come into Your kingdom’” (Luke 23:42).

Faith is active. Faith is intentional. Faith is a lifestyle of acknowledging the power of God every day. Faith places us in a posture of worship. Faith proclaims that my heart and life are committed to Jesus Christ. Faith causes us to surrender in humility to the power of God as demonstrated by our desire to obey God in all circumstances. Faith causes us to cry out, “Lord save me!” even when our lives are peaceful and all is well.

In these last days, where do many believers stand in their relationship with Christ?

Jesus answers the question: “Because you say, ‘I am rich, have become wealthy, and have need of nothing and do not know that you are wretched, miserable, poor, blind, and naked…’” (Revelation 3:17)

Sadly, in these perilous times, many Christians are empty lamps—they do not have the oil of the Holy Spirit in their hearts. Their light no longer shines because they are content with their lifestyles. Gone are the days when they had the zeal to witness to others or to use their spiritual gifts and financial blessings to help others.

Faith requires human effort to grow!

The reward of eternal life will only be given to the righteous who strived through the good times and hardships to remain faithful to God through daily surrender, humility, and obedience. Commit to meaningful worship through fervent prayer and study of the Scriptures in your secret closet every day.

Bible Study: Luke chapter 18

Prayer: Jesus, Son of David, have mercy on us! Search our hearts and reveal the stumbling blocks that keep us from surrendering to You. We pray for forgiveness for the sin of being lukewarm in our relationship with You. We love You and surrender our hearts in total obedience. We ask this prayer in the Worthy name of Jesus, Amen.

Our Willingness to Learn Determines Our Destiny

Devotional Reading—Our Willingness to Learn Determines Our Destiny By Sonya Johnson

In the 1990s, the nursing staff at the facility where I worked were scheduled for a mandatory meeting. Many anticipated the news that we would receive a hefty raise in salary or that the company was purchased by another organization. No, our educated guesses were wrong. We were signing up for a mandatory one-week educational seminar to learn electronic medical records software.

I was among the younger group of nurses who were elated that the tedious job of handwritten patient documentation was ending. Yet, I remember looking at many faces portraying disgust and anger. In anticipation of refusal to learn the software, the Administrator emphasized that our jobs were reliant on making the transition from handwritten documentation to electronic documentation within 30 days.

The nurses who were resistant attempted to stifle progress by filing a grievance–which they lost. The facility lost 50-60% of its nursing staff [either by resignation or termination] who were not willing to learn electronic health record documentation.

Resistance to learning is a forever problem that impedes the progression of one’s 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

God anticipated that we would need divine intervention. We were created with the innate traits and abilities to travel the journey on the Path of Righteousness. Our lives revolve around a continuous cycle of learning, falling down, and repentance. Yet, if we surrender daily to God, we change from fulfilling the desires of our carnal hearts to one of righteous living.

For the Christian believer, resistance to learning prevents us from achieving the daily spiritual growth of becoming like Christ, Sanctification. For our destiny to be the New Heaven and New Earth, we must endure the change necessary to have the Character of Christ. It’s a tough journey. Even so, we are never alone!

“But when you pray, go away by yourself, shut the door behind you, and pray to your Father in private. Then your Father, who sees everything, will reward you.” –Matthew 6:6

The Learning Curve: With the noise of world news, social media, and life events, we are challenged to recognize the quiet voice of God. Develop the habit of isolation when worshipping God. Forget about the cell phone and the cares of life in your communion with God. Taking the time to allow the Holy Spirit to provide spiritual renewal and restoration is of utmost importance. Break the habit of saying a prayer on the go. Many times we pray, say Amen, and never receive God’s answers because we failed to heed His command, “Be still and know that I am God…” (Psalm 46:10, first part).

We require daily prayer to receive the anointing of the Holy Spirit. Learning to remain in a posture [mindset] of waiting for God to reveal His will and plans along with the diligent study of the Holy Bible is vital for knowing who the Trinity Godhead—God, Jesus, and the Holy Spirit are and their purpose in our spiritual journey.

“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

“Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me [following Me as My disciple], for I am gentle and humble in heart, and YOU WILL FIND REST (renewal, blessed quiet) FOR YOUR SOULS.” –Matthew 11:29, Amplified Bible

What does it mean to take Jesus’ yoke?

“Wearing the yoke with Christ means to…to be a copartner with Him in His sufferings and toils for lost humanity. In accepting Christ’s yoke of restraint and obedience, you will find that it is of the greatest help to you. Wearing this yoke keeps you near the side of Christ, and He bears the heaviest part of the load.” Ellen G.White

“…to those who have no might He increases strength” (Isaiah 40:29). God comes and takes us out of our emotionalism, and then our complaining turns into a hymn of praise. The only way to know the strength of God is to take the yoke [burden] of Jesus upon us and to learn from Him.” Oswald Chambers

The reward of Eternal life requires us to give up all hindrances and worldly pleasures. To consecrate our all to Jesus Christ [which requires sacrificial giving] goes against our carnal heart’s desires. “Because you say, ‘I am rich, have become wealthy, and have need of nothing’—and do not know that you are wretched, miserable, poor, blind, and naked…’” —Revelation 3:17.

Continuous spiritual learning is the foundation for our lifelong journey of Sanctification. Obedience and restraint [temperance, self-control] mandate that our hearts are filled with humility and we have a mindset of perseverance. To be a disciple of Christ, we must learn to endure suffering. Yet, the Apostle Paul who lived the remainder of His life in prison and became a martyr for Christ gives us words of hope.

“We are hard-pressed on every side, yet not crushed; we are perplexed, but not in despair; persecuted, but not forsaken; struck down, but not destroyed—always carrying about in the body the dying of the Lord Jesus, that the life of Jesus also may be manifested in our body.” –2 Corinthians 4:8-10

Yes, as Christians we are on a forever learning curve. Never forget that Jesus gave us the priceless gift of Redemption. Every test, trial, and hardship prepares us for eternal life in the New Heaven and New Earth. Just as an athlete learns to eat the balanced meals that provide them with the energy to sustain their daily training for competitive events, we must learn to feed daily on the Word of God to receive the spiritual strength to endure the Christian race.

Bible Study: 2 Corinthians chapter 4

Prayer: God, we pray for the strength to endure the race. Help us to understand that we must have the Character of Christ to receive the reward of eternal life. With humility, we ask You to empower us with the Holy Spirit so that we can learn to live obediently and righteously in preparation for our forever lives in Your Kingdom. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.

Devotional–The Power of Self-Governance

Devotional Reading—The Power of Self-Governance

Self-governance, self-government, or self-rule is the ability of a person or group to exercise all necessary functions of regulation without intervention from an external authority.

Many decades ago, a well-known singer wrote a very popular song entitled, “I Did It My Way.” Using a timeline of approximately 6,000 years from Creation to now proves that humanity has always done it our way. From Adam and Eve to Cain and the Nation of Israel whom God freed from Egyptian enslavement—we have challenged the precepts and commands of God.

This morning I had an interesting conversation about the decline of the moral fiber and value system of today’s society. Although we would like to believe that this level of wickedness has escalated for the first time–in the 21st century, human beings have always strived for self-governance. In the time of Noah, except for eight people, everyone lived according to their mindset. So the modern concept of “Truth is whatever I believe it to be,” is not new.

What makes the difference is that people no longer hide their mindsets and lifestyles. The facade of pretense is no more. We are boldly proclaiming our freedom of choice to speak, act, and live according to our preferences. Even so, there is a quote, “You can do as you like, but not for as long as you like.”

The deception of self-governance is the supposed freedom and empowerment that it gives. Many corporations are bankrupt, and embezzlement, financial scams, and identity theft have risen to an all-time high. The marriage of husband and wife is no longer sacred and gender assignment is touted as if human beings can change their chromosomes.

The result of self-governance has created a destructive path of political chaos, unresolved social issues, famine, extinction of animals, hatred, and climate change on our earth. Yet, we choose to blame others while we have secretly joined the revolution. You may experience a self-righteous moment by telling yourself I certainly do not support the lifestyle of the pro-choicers.

Sadly, you are likely a significant part of the rebellion against the external authority of God. Christians have a different standard by which they judge themselves. We look at certain sins of degradation and pride ourselves that we would never do those things. Yet, there are only two options available to humanity: Obedience to God or Obedience to Satan.

If your life decisions [insignificant daily choices or significant life events] do not include praying for God’s will to be done in your life first, then you do not submit to the external authority of God. You are functioning in the mode of self-rule.

“…The way of the transgressor [unfaithful] is hard.” Proverbs 13:15

Truthfully, self-governance feels great. Chasing our heart’s desires and fulfilling our dreams and goals gives us a great sense of satisfaction. When we purchase homes or vehicles, start a business, change jobs, or enter a relationship or marriage without praying and seeking God’s approval and blessings, we have to struggle to keep it.

“LORD, I know that people’s lives are not their own; it is not for them to direct their steps.” Jeremiah 10:23

Whether we like it or not, God did not create humanity to function without His loving guidance. When believers refuse to submit to the authority of God, we suffer the consequences. It may take weeks, months, or years, but the impact of self-governance will eventually bring us to our knees. We will either repent or end up with bitterness and animosity toward God for the negative outcome of the decisions that we chose to make without Divine guidance.

God will never take away our free will of choice. Yet, we must decide between surrendering to the perfect will of God or not. Believers of the Most High God, please realize there is no middle ground!

Many people think that Jesus was a radical rebel. When Jesus was on this earth, He learned obedience—His obedience extended to the external authority of God, His earthly parents, and the Roman government. Jesus was in total opposition to the oppression from the hypocritical Pharisees. Yet, His every decision was in alignment with God, His Father, even to the death required for our redemption on the Cross of Calvary.

“The heart is deceitful above all things, And desperately wicked; Who can know it?” –Jeremiah 17:9

God has forewarned us—we cannot judge the condition of our hearts. Do not become entrapped in Satan’s snare of self-governance. Knowledge of the scriptures and the spiritual insight [given to us by the Holy Spirit] tell us we are living in the last days of earth’s history. Surrender to the external authority of God, our Father, and have a blessed life complete with joy and peace.

Bible Verse: “The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom; all who follow His precepts gain a rich understanding. His praise endures forever!” –Psalm 111:10

Prayer: God, we desperately need Your help! We are thinking and living according to our love of self-rule and for this sin, we ask forgiveness. We ask You to reveal your will for our lives. We pray for the anointing of the Holy Spirit to direct us and give us wisdom. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.

My Wish List—A Yurt

Walking On the Water–Did Peter Fail?

Devotional Reading—Walking On the Water—Did Peter Fail? From The Struggle of Sanctification by Sonya Johnson

The points for consideration about the Apostle Peter are from a sermon preached by Pastor D. Snell of Oakwood University SDA Church.

From reading the Scriptures, Peter was impulsive, impatient, and impetuous. Whether Jesus was telling a parable or teaching the disciples, Peter never listened with the intent to learn. The disciple who could not control his mouth was always ready to correct others and to express his opinions which impeded his ability to gain knowledge, wisdom, and an in-depth understanding of spiritual matters.

After feeding the 5,000, “Immediately Jesus made His disciples get into the boat and go before Him to the other side, while He sent the multitudes away. And when He had sent the multitudes away, He went up on the mountain by Himself to pray. Now when evening came, He was there alone” (Matthew 14:22-23).

While Jesus was in solitude communing with God, His Father, the disciples were fearful and anxious because of the stormy sea. They attempted to maneuver the boat to safety, “But the boat was now in the middle of the sea, tossed by the waves, for the wind was contrary” (Matthew 14:24).

“Now in the fourth watch of the night [between 3 am and 6 am before sunrise], Jesus went to them, walking on the sea. And when the disciples saw Him walking on the sea, they were troubled, saying, ‘It is a ghost!’ And they cried out for fear. But immediately Jesus spoke to them, saying, ‘Be of good cheer! It is I; do not be afraid.'” (Matthew 14:25-27).

Although Jesus identified himself and spoke words of comfort, Peter verbalized the fearful thought in all of the disciple’s minds, “Is it really Jesus?” “And Peter answered Him and said, ‘Lord, if it is You, command me to come to You on the water'” Matthew 14:28.

In His loving nature, Jesus did not rebuke Peter: “…He said, ‘Come.’ And when Peter had come down out of the boat, he walked on the water to go to Jesus” (Matthew 14:29).

Peter’s Failure? “But when he saw that the wind was boisterous, he was afraid; and beginning to sink he cried out, saying, ‘Lord, save me!'” (Matthew 14:30).

Jesus was aware the disciples were in a fishing boat tossing back and forth in a tumultuous storm that should have made the boat sink and caused death from drowning. But these were not normal circumstances. Although Jesus was alone on the mountain, His watchful eyes were covering and protecting His beloved disciples from the catastrophic effects of the raging storm.

Back to the disciples! We understand the disciple’s minds were crippled by fear. Twelve men in a boat using their expertise, but were helpless in preventing a near-death experience. Yet, not one disciple prayed and called on the name of Jesus for help during the storm. We know this because there would have been recorded scriptures indicating they prayed for Jesus to help and save them. And if they prayed for Jesus’ help, when they saw a man walking on the water, all of the disciples would have known that it was Jesus.

Sadly, Jesus knew that His disciples did not believe that He was the Son of God–the Messiah.

When Jesus spoke the words of comfort, “Be of good cheer! It is I, do not be afraid,” the storm was in full effect. Only Peter, the reckless disciple possessed a tiny bit of faith–still, it was enough for him to get out of the boat and walk toward Jesus.

“Many are the afflictions of the righteous, But the LORD delivers him out of them all.” (Psalm 34:19)

Like many of us when facing storms, in his humanness, Peter lost his focus by looking away from Jesus. We know that Jesus promised to deliver us from our troubles, but we fixate on the situation instead of faithfully believing and waiting for deliverance.

Jesus saves Peter: “And immediately Jesus stretched out His hand and caught him, and said to him, ‘O you of little faith, why did you doubt?'” (Matthew 14:31).

“Pastor Snell’s commentary: ‘When Jesus saved Peter, the storm was still raging. Jesus did not bring the boat to Himself and Peter, they walked back to the boat. The disciples in the boat never asked Jesus if they could come to them, they just sat and watched Jesus and Peter walk on the water and enter the boat. Peter had enough faith to walk side-by-side with Jesus.'”

“And when they got into the boat, the wind ceased. Then those who were in the boat came and worshiped Him, saying, ‘Truly You are the Son of God'” (Matthew 32-33).

On the same day, the disciples had just witnessed one of Jesus’ greatest miracles—feeding a multitude of 5,000 plus. They were overtaken by fear when they saw a man walking on the water because of two reasons. They [secretly] held on to their former pagan belief of ghosts. And before the storm, the disciples did not believe that Jesus was the Son of God.

The reckless, impulsive disciple who could not control his emotions or his spoken words had little faith [as pointed out by Jesus]. Still, Peter had enough faith to get out of the boat to go to Jesus and walk back to the boat side-by-side with Jesus.

In Matthew chapter 16, “…Jesus asked His disciples, saying, ‘Who do men say that I, the Son of Man, am?’ “So they said, ‘Some say John the Baptist, some Elijah, and others Jeremiah or one of the prophets.’ “He said to them, ‘But who do you say that I am?'” (Verses 13-15).

“Simon Peter answered and said, ‘You are the Christ, the Son of the living God.’” (Matthew 16:16)

Jesus’ Response: “Jesus answered and said to him, ‘Blessed are you, Simon Bar-Jonah, for flesh and blood has not revealed this to you, but My Father who is in heaven.’” Matthew 16:17

Jesus changed Simon Bar-Jonah’s name to Simon Peter and blessed him because he wholeheartedly believed that Jesus Christ was the Son of God.

Before Jesus’ arrest leading to His crucifixion, He stated to the disciples, “Until now you have not asked for anything in My name. Ask and you will receive, so that your joy may be complete.” (John 16:24)

Where do we stand as disciples of Jesus? Are we sitting in our lifeboats with minds full of worldly beliefs that prevent us from actively acknowledging that Jesus Christ is the Son of God? Do our daily prayers reflect that we are asking for faith, courage, wisdom, and the anointing of the Holy Spirit from Jesus?

Without the habit of praying for spiritual growth and a closer relationship with Jesus, we will have the mindset of the disciples–when in trouble we will not remember to pray. Our minds will be filled with fear or we will expend energy attempting to resolve life’s issues without success.

Our lifestyles reveal if we love Jesus. If we love God with all of our hearts, souls, and minds, then we faithfully serve as obedient disciples who live to do the will of God.

“So when they had eaten breakfast, Jesus said to Simon Peter, ‘Simon, son of Jonah, do you love Me more than these?’ He said to Him, ‘Yes, Lord; You know that I love You.’ He said to him, ‘Feed My lambs.'” (John 21:15)

Yes, Peter denied Christ three times. Still, Peter loved Jesus. It was from Jesus’ overwhelming love, grace, and mercy that Peter, the impetuous, cowardly, disciple received complete forgiveness and restoration as His disciple.

The Apostle Peter is an example of the spiritual transformation that is possible when we love Jesus and acknowledge Him as King of Kings and Lord of Lords in our lives. Every day, with humble hearts on bended knees, we must proclaim, “You are the Christ, the Son of the living God!” Hallelujah to the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world. Amen.

Bible Study: Matthew chapter 14 and John chapter 21