Tag: Faith Love Trust Obedience

For Christ Alone

“Sanctify them by Your truth. Your word is truth.” John 17:17 Jesus said to him, “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me.” John 14:6

Growing up in a Christian home was not difficult because my friends were also from Christian households. I was a mischievous but obedient child who loved to read. Weekly, I would visit the library, check out the maximum number of books, and excitedly wait for the next visit. Although my mother studied the Bible daily, she did not read the Bible to us, nor did she encourage us to study the Word of God. Our Father worked 12-16 hours, six days a week. It was a time factor. With two younger children and one with ADHD, her schedule was non-stop. I can only imagine that she was exhausted at the end of each day. Even so, her character and actions revealed Christ through her love, temperament, and patience.

The church we attended in Newark, NJ, was diverse, with members from various ethnicities and cultures. Our pastor [of German descent] emphasized weekly to the congregation that we represented the family of God. He also stressed unity and love [this was during the Civil Rights Movement] if we expected to receive eternal life. Still, we were not a Bible-based church. Our services were based on “miracle-healings,” where members and visitors would stand in line to receive physical healing.

This is not a critical portrayal of our pastor. Simply, we were not taught to study the scriptures. The emphasis was to be like Jesus. But how? Without the knowledge of the Bible, it is impossible to be like Jesus. Fast forward a few decades, and now, I am a Bible student. The Holy Spirit has taught me that I must have extensive knowledge and wisdom to possess the Character of Christ along with the desire to live a holy and righteous life.

God’s expectation is that we diligently study the scriptures. Study to show thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth. 2 Timothy 2:15. Interestingly, the other biblical translations of this verse replace the most important word, study.

To emulate Christ requires a thorough knowledge of the Bible and the anointing of the Holy Spirit. Sanctification is the life-long process of spiritual maturity. “To be sanctified is to become a partaker of the divine nature, catching the spirit and mind of Jesus, ever learning in the school of Christ.” The Upward Look, p. 149

Staying on the Path of Righteousness requires unwavering faith and trust in God, strict obedience, and wisdom that we can only receive from our Teacher, the Holy Spirit. Still, intense love for God is the foundation that fuels our desire to please God. Jesus replied: “Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind. This is the first and greatest commandment.” Matthew 22:37-38

Jesus led an exemplary life in His love and service to those in need. Christ embraced the poor, the needy, and the individuals who society considered undesirable. And the second is like it: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’ Matthew 22:39

Human Effort from a heart filled with agape love:

    • Persistent prayer
    • Diligent Bible Study
    • Anointing of the Holy Spirit
    • Meekness and Humility
    • Resistance of temptation

Divine Intervention from God, Jesus Christ, and the Holy Spirit:

Now may the God of peace Himself sanctify you completely, and may your whole spirit, soul, and body be preserved blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. He who calls you is faithful, who also will do it. 1 Thessalonians 5:23-24

The Apostle Paul clarifies that our faithfulness and obedience to God allow for continuous spiritual growth and development. God does not expect us to overcome our inherent sinful natures using our strength. In fact, we can’t become holy and righteous without Divine intervention. Praise God that we have a Spiritual Team that is always ready to intervene and intercede, providing us with help on our journey with Christ. Strive to live every day, “For Christ Alone.”

And this is eternal life, that they may know You, the only true God, and Jesus Christ whom You have sent. John 17:3

Prayer: God, we thank you for the mercies of a new day. Jesus, we give our lives to you. We pray for the anointing of the Holy Spirit that we may receive guidance, wisdom, and comfort. Thank you for hearing and answering our prayer. In Jesus’ name. Amen. © 2021 Sonya Johnson, Faithful Fishers Ministry

Give Us This Day

“So don’t worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will bring its own worries. Today’s trouble is enough for today.” Matthew 6:34 NLT

Have you ever had worries about your future? If yes, then most likely you have not memorized Matthew 6:19-34. Jesus provides the reassurance and guarantees that He will provide for every necessity in our lives. Beyond knowing the due dates for monthly bills or pending appointments, we should have no concerns regarding the future–not even tomorrow. We are not even guaranteed the next day, so we should be extremely grateful for the mercies of life for today.

“So don’t worry about these things, saying, ‘What will we eat? What will we drink? What will we wear?’ These things dominate the thoughts of unbelievers, but your heavenly Father already knows all your needs.” Matthew 6:31‭-‬32 NLT

Recently, I listened to the testimony of a young man who said that the Holy Spirit spoke to him during church service to give all of the money he had in his pocket, which wasn’t enough to last until payday [the next week]. He obeyed. The next day at work, he realized that he previously promised to meet a couple of coworkers for lunch. As he drove to McDonald’s, without a penny, he would tell his coworkers that he wasn’t hungry. But on the way, he stopped to help an older man who had car trouble. From that act of kindness, God blessed him with enough money to last until payday.

This is a story of obedience and a giant leap of faith and trust in God. In verse 32, Jesus reveals our status as faithless and compares us to unbelievers who constantly worry when we think about tomorrow. We have an immediate decision to make–to live with or without faith. It’s up to us. Be aware of the consequences of choosing to rely on yourself. Without faith, we live miserable lives. It is not possible to have unspeakable joy and peace without total belief in God, our Provider.

The thief does not come except to steal, and to kill, and to destroy. I have come that they may have life and that they may have it more abundantly. John 10:10. “Abundant life” refers to life in its abounding fullness of joy and strength for mind, soul, and body. Jesus promised that if we live day by day and fully trust in Him that our joy would be complete. Go ahead, thank our Jehovah Jireh for His loving care of always giving us needful provisions. Living a faith-based life guarantees us the fulfillment of God’s promises.

Prayer: God, we ask for forgiveness of our doubt and unbelief in you. We thank you for your promises of “Yes and Amen.” In Jesus’ name. Amen. © 2021 Sonya Johnson, Faithful Fishers Ministry

Finish the Plans

For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, says the LORD, thoughts of peace and not of evil, to give you a future and a hope. Jeremiah 29:11 (NKJV)

Most of us are familiar with this verse. Even so, other translations lead many to believe this scripture is a promise of financial prosperity. Jesus, the Son of God lived in poverty when He left his parent’s home to begin His ministry. “And Jesus said to him, ‘Foxes have holes and birds of the air have nests, but the Son of Man has nowhere to lay His head.'” Luke 9:58.

When we focus on accumulating material possessions, God can’t be our number one priority. For you must not worship any other god, for the LORD, whose name is Jealous, is a jealous God. Exodus 34:14. How is this possible? Certainly, we would not intentionally place anything before the Most-High God. But, sadly, we have become our own idols. Worshipping ourselves with more and more material possessions, we strive to fulfill our desires and proudly tell ourselves that “God is raining down blessings.”

Steps to “Finish [God’s] plan for your life

    1. Pray and ask God to reveal your spiritual gifts and His plans for your life.
    2. Evaluate your responsibilities, commitments, and other lifestyle activities. Eliminate the people, places, and things that prevent “God first.”
    3. Make a plan to free yourself from debt. We have to say, Enough is Enough.
    4. Put God first by planned worship at least twice a day. Building a deep relationship with Jesus Christ is a necessity to stay connected in these last days.
    5. Diligent study of the Bible and constant communication through prayer builds unwavering faith and trust in God.

The decision to finish the plans is not pursuing an academic degree or climbing the career ladder. When we put God first, He will ensure that we reach our highest spiritual and intellectual development level. Using our talents and spiritual gifts, we can use social media to tell others that Jesus Christ is the Savior of the world. I began witnessing on my FB and Instagram pages, posting encouraging scriptures. With a willing heart, God honors our faith, trust, and obedience.

Remember that we have enlisted in the Army of God. We are commandment-keeping disciples, followers of Jesus Christ, which requires that we give up our mindset. Let God lead you, and you will live your best life. 

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

Prayer: God, we are ready to finish the plans that you have for us. Please reveal the direction in which we should travel to fulfill your Divine purpose. In Jesus’ name. Amen. © 2021 Sonya Johnson, Faithful Fishers Ministry

The Change in the Atmosphere, part 1

Audio Link: https://anchor.fm/sonya-johnson-ruiz/episodes/The-Change-in-the-Atmosphere–part-1-e19k5oi

Surrender to God requires faith and obedience along with diligent study and correct knowledge of the scriptures. Without a firm grasp of biblically-based sound doctrine, we become desensitized to the increasing corrupt changes in these perilous times. Still, we cannot ignore the laws that are in full opposition to God’s law. The level of compromise has risen and impacts every system from government to many churches. The decline is evident in our societies on a global level. The swift collapse of the moral fiber and value systems is a result of rebellion. Many individuals proudly proclaim, “My truth is what I believe in.” We are coerced into acceptance of the lies from gender neutrality to the belief that good people always go to heaven. Yet, the most blasphemous trend is now boldly proclaimed on social media: Believers have been given the authority to call upon and command the Holy Spirit to activate as if He is a magical genie–a figment of demonic imaginings.

But know this, that in the last days perilous times will come: For men will be lovers of themselves, lovers of money, boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy, unloving, unforgiving, slanderers, without self-control, brutal, despisers of good, traitors, headstrong, haughty, lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God, having a form of godliness but denying its power. And from such people turn away! 2 Timothy 3:1‭-‬5 NKJV

God has fully disclosed the events that show rapid progression toward Jesus’ Second Coming. Reflect on this, centuries ago the Apostle Paul gives us the exact condition of the last days. The people in Noah’s time had 120 years to get it together. Our lifespan is not even close. But evil men and impostors will grow worse and worse, deceiving and being deceived. 2 Timothy 3:‬13 NKJV. We do not fear the prophecies that are being fulfilled. God is still in control of His world.

The Human Effort of praying for the discernment and guidance from the Holy Spirit is vital to our spiritual growth, perseverance, and endurance. It is a conscious decision to faithfully obey God by asking that His will be done in our lives. Turning our eyes upon Jesus requires wholehearted commitment. Through Christ, we can live holy and righteous lives. We have a Spirtual Team that is ready 24/7 to assist us in our journey on the Path of Righteousness.

Therefore lay aside all filthiness and overflow of wickedness, and receive with meekness the implanted word, which is able to save your souls. But be doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving yourselves. James 1:21-22

Prayer: God, we thank you for giving us the Holy scriptures that we may study and learn who you are and the righteousness that you require of us. We ask for forgiveness of our sins and to anointed with the Holy Spirit. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen. © 2021 Sonya Johnson, Faithful Fishers Ministry

Trading In the Old Me

Imagine that you received an even-trade offer to receive a new vehicle for turning in your current vehicle. The only condition is that you would not see the new vehicle prior to the trade. Some would hesitate and need time to think about it, while others would give a definite answer of no. Still, there is the enthusiastic group that would be elated, readily agreeing to participate in the blind trade.

When we accepted Jesus Christ as our personal Savior we agreed to surrender and to become His disciples. Changing us from our inherited tendencies, eliminating our self-reliance, taking away the desire for worldly habits, and giving us a character makeover is a lifetime spiritual process known as Sanctification. The Apostle Paul tells us in 2nd Corinthians 5:17, “This means that anyone who belongs to Christ have become a new person. The old life is gone; a new life has begun.” NLT. Yes, Sanctification is to become holy as Jesus is holy.

Where do you stand as far as trading off the old you in exchange for the new person in Christ Jesus? Which group of individuals represent your decision to become like Christ?

Prayer: God, we thank you for the opportunity to become holy and to live righteously. We have made the decision to be faithful disciples in preparation for eternal life. Thank you, for giving your life that we may be redeemed from our sins. We ask this prayer in Jesus’ name. Amen. © 2021 Sonya Johnson, Faithful Fishers Ministry

Time, Money, and Energy

God has blessed us with the resources of time, money, and energy. Utilize each with diligence. The goal of every believer is to hear, “Well done, good and faithful servant; you have been Faithful over a few things, I will make you ruler over many things. Enter into the joy of your Lord.” Matthew 25:23

The Forecast: Stormy Weather Ahead

Most of us rely on the prediction of weather forecasts. Many outdoor activities, weddings, and events are planned on suppositions of future projections. Still, we are surprised by the unforeseen thunderstorms and rain showers that threaten or cancel the events that we have put time and effort into or eagerly look forward to attending. It is a grim disappointment when our plans and anticipated joy come to a screeching halt. Even so, with sadness in our hearts, we realize that the weather is above and beyond our control. And either we use plan B, or the event is rescheduled.

The life of a disciple–follower of Christ is a life full of storms and seasons of fiery trials. Yet, many live their daily lives as if they were unaware that following Christ means suffering. Two reasons exist: 1. Lack of knowledge. 2. The internal conflict between surrender and self-reliance, which prevents us from bonding with Christ. We eagerly make plans without presenting them first to God in prayer for His approval and blessing. The prayer of “Not my will, but thy will be done” is replaced with a mindset of presumption. Sadly, our desires supersede God’s plans for our lives.  

Jesus’ disciples also had their own agenda–for Jesus to be proclaimed King and exalt Himself to the throne [along with themselves]. After feeding the five thousand, the disciples were confident that Jesus would announce himself as King. It was evident. If someone could feed thousands of people from five loaves of bread and two fish, and have food left over, certainly they would proclaim Jesus as their earthly king. Finally their life of poverty and suffering would be over. But Jesus knowing their desires gave a command that left them astonished.  Immediately Jesus made His disciples get into the boat and go before Him to the other side, while He sent the multitudes away. Matthew 14:22.

Because of their worldly desire of self-elevation, the disciples were always outside of the will of God. Yes, they were deeply disappointed when Jesus sent them away. And because of their selfish and disobedient character traits, they waited for Jesus [John 6:16-17] until dark. Finally they got into the boat not realizing that the calm sea would become a raging storm that would make them acknowledge the deity of Jesus : “Then those who were in the boat came and worshiped Him, saying, “Truly You are the Son of God.” Matthew 14:33

“Wouldn’t it be wonderful if we knew when our spiritual storms were coming?” “These things I have spoken to you, that in Me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation; but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world.” John 16:33. Jesus forewarned us of the stormy trials, sorrows, and hardships that would come upon us. The life of a disciple–follower of Christ is a life full of storms and seasons of fiery trials. Yet, many say they are Christians but seem unaware that following Christ includes a journey of suffering. Like the disciples, we have our agendas for success, acquiring tangible possessions, and living comfortable, peaceful lifestyles.

And then we face the storm that rages with such force, we realize our helplessness. When the storm hits, we are devastated. The preparation of building rock-solid faith requires diligently studying the scriptures and becoming a powerful prayer warrior. We must cultivate prayer and study as daily habits. God’s promises include the condition of putting forth “Human Effort!”

When we are armored up–Ephesians 6:10-18, we are strong in the Lord. Our faith and trust in God is unwavering. We are connected to the source of power–Jesus Christ. We gain strength because of the power of prayer, knowledge of the scriptures, and possessing a faithful, obedient, and deep spiritual bond [relationship] with Jesus Christ.

My brethren, count it all joy when you fall into various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces patience. But let patience have its perfect work, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking nothing. If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all liberally and without reproach, and it will be given to him. James 1:2-5

Yes, the storms are raging. But Jesus tells us to come, “Go Ahead! Walk on the Water.” Jesus is always here to help us through our storms. Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid. John 14:27

Prayer: God, we need you more than ever. We are not prepared for the storms. We pray forgiveness for not staying connected to you through prayer and study of the scriptures. Please lead us and guide us through your Holy Spirit. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen. © 2021 Sonya Johnson, Faithful Fishers Ministry 

Think About It First

They say what the world needs is love, sweet love. Although I wholeheartedly agree, I would like to add another character trait that is in short supply and that is patience. Most of us are victims to the “hurry up with it, I have other things to do” mindset. Even so, I came across some profound advice, “Unless it is an emergency, think about it for at least 24 hours and the possible consequences that may follow from you making that decision.”

For the believer in God, every decision that we make is either for God or against God. Within that 24 hours, we must go to God in prayer and ask for His will. There are few absolutes in life. We can know this for sure that we can never hurry God. And there is one more absolute truth, every mistake that we have made in our lives is because we did not ask God or we did not wait for God’s answer.

And for those like myself who lack the virtue of patience, God has no problem letting us make the mistake. He knows that when we are drowning in the Sea of Consequences, we will pray the SMS–Save My Soul prayer. Thankfully, He forgives us with loving grace and mercies. Still, we may suffer the full impact from our disobedience.

Last night during worship, it was the Holy Spirit who taught me this profound fact of life. Every decision that you make is either for God or against God. The imagery was the train crossing with the flashing red lights with the barrier coming down warning of the pending train traveling at an unknown speed. I am thankful that our Heavenly Father’s love is overprotective.

And if it seems evil to you to serve the Lord, choose for yourself this day whom you will serve. Joshua 24:15

Prayer: God, we ask for forgiveness for excluding you from our lives. We are suffering the consequences of misguided decisions based on impatience. Please come to our rescue. We ask this prayer in Jesus’ name. Amen. © 2021 Sonya Johnson, Faithful Fishers Ministry