Tag: Faith

Power, Love, and a Sound Mind

The writings [letters] of the apostle Paul in the New Testament to the churches and young Timothy reveal his fatherly character. Paul was loving, kind, nurturing, promoted harmony and the appropriate conduct for believers. Yet, he was a disciplinarian who believed in self-control, structure, discipline, and strict obedience to God. The apostle encouraged the early Christians to strive for the mark because eternal life would be the reward for the faithful. And yes, they needed strong and consistent spiritual support because the Roman Empire persecuted and killed many of the early church Christians.

The emphasis is not a historical overview of the suffering of those who follow Christ but a reminder of our religious liberty and the freedom to accept Jesus as our Lord and Savior. The selection of churches and the decision to join a body of believers is a choice that we take for granted as modern-day Christians. Yet, in 2021, there are individuals who are forced to worship secretly. And how many are experiencing persecution from families and governments because of their commitment to serve Jesus?

“I am writing to Timothy, my true son in the faith…” 1 Timothy 1:2

Young Timothy had proven himself with the zeal and energy to witness. He was a faithful disciple who had a passion to make disciples. Timothy witnessed to many individuals who accepted Jesus as Lord. The Apostle Paul became his spiritual mentor, writing two letters–1st and 2nd Timothy to provide guidance on the practical matters of the church. Even so, it was Paul’s intent to teach Timothy that he was a spiritual role model who must have strong faith, a godly conscience, to remain above reproach, and utilize the spiritual gifts that God had given him (1 Timothy 4:12–16). Mentoring still remains a vital component of Christian believers: Those who are strong in faith and spiritually mature are admonished to provide mentoring to the babes in Christ.

Sadly, we do not see the need for spiritual support, and many new believers become overwhelmed. Feeling alone, they eventually give up and return to their former way of life.

By the time, Paul wrote the letter of 2nd Timothy, he was a prisoner waiting for execution. The natural and expected emotional reaction from Timothy occurred [being mindful of your tears…2 Timothy 1:4]. Paul acknowledged his grief but reminded him that he possessed faith. “when I call to remembrance the genuine faith that is in you, which dwelt first in your grandmother Lois and your mother Eunice, and I am persuaded is in you also.” 2 Timothy 1:5. But there was a greater problem, Timothy feared for his own 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

Not only did Paul confront Timothy regarding his fear of suffering and death, in reading the remainder of the letter [chapter] Paul reminded him that there is no shame in suffering, and to remain loyal to the Faith despite the outcome.

The letters of 1 and 2 Timothy are for us–today’s Christian believers. Many have little to no faith when faced with stormy trials, seasons of darkness, and daily hardships. Is lack of faith and possessing fear the characteristics of believers? Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the Lord your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you. Deuteronomy 31:6.

Be strong and courageous! We serve a powerful and loving God who promises to take care of us. Acknowledge and accept your God-given character: Fearless, powerful, loving, possessing mental, emotional, and spiritual strength–a rational mind knowing and believing in faith God will deliver us and bring victory to our situation.

When you go through deep waters, I will be with you. When you go through rivers of difficulty, you will not drown. When you walk through the fire of oppression, you will not be burned up; the flames will not consume you. Isaiah 43:2

If any one should have anxieties, and worries, it should only occur in the unbelievers who do not acknowledge or serve God.

Believers in the Most-High God begin to study the Bible, pray without ceasing, and ask to be guided and directed by the Holy Spirit. We cannot be prepared for the revocation of religious freedom and the persecution that “we the free” will experience one day without the knowledge of God’s Word and the indwelling of the Holy Spirit. Nor can we remain faithful in trying times. Proclaim your heritage–God is our Heavenly Father, Jesus Christ redeemed us from sin, and the Holy Spirit is our Teacher and Comforter!

Bible Study: 1 and 2 Timothy

Prayer: God, we admit that we are not studying the Bible as we should, nor do we pray enough. Our burdens are heavy. We didn’t realize all we have to do is turn the cares of this life over to you. We ask forgiveness for not doing our part in the plan of salvation. Please impart your strength to us that we may faithfully serve you until the coming of your Son, Jesus Christ. We ask this prayer in the mighty name of Jesus. Amen. © 2021 Sonya Johnson

The Refreshing Relationship

Is there anything you feel is standing between you and God?

Many have created a spiritual comfort zone that includes certain behaviors and habits that compromise their relationship with Jesus Christ. Holding on to stuff, emotional scars, unforgiveness, relationships with unbelievers, wayward habits, and secret sins prevent us from having a serious relationship with God. Although our secret sins are unknown to others, God is fully aware of the self-seeking desires that keep us distanced from Him. Can you imagine being in a committed relationship with a significant other involved with you and someone else?

The above question contains two words, “you feel” which immediately places us in the realm of compromise. The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked: who can know it? Jeremiah 17:9. God leaves no stone unturned when He says that we cannot evaluate ourselves according to our standards. No one is exempt. It is easy to say, “Oh no, I would never do that” or ask “How could they have done something so terrible?” Yet, we neglect God by placing more importance on the demands of people, places of entertainment, and things that make us feel good.

How do we know if we are obedient and following God’s commandments? The Bible is our guidebook to living faith-based righteous lives. The Bible is not a self-help book. Yes, we study the Bible for knowledge. Even so, God never expected us to travel this journey without His help. Our connection with God is vital because He is the source of our strength. “I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing. If anyone does not remain in Me, he is like a branch that is thrown away and withers. Such branches are gathered up, thrown into the fire, and burned.… ” John 15:5-6

It is our faith that causes us to have a totally dependent relationship with God. When we finally decide to serve God wholeheartedly, we can have trials of fire, seasons of darkness, and continually thirsty souls. Still, we also will have the confidence and courage to wait on the Lord our God who promises to deliver us.

The Lord will guide you continually,
And satisfy your soul in drought,
And strengthen your bones;
You shall be like a watered garden,
And like a spring of water, whose waters do not fail. Isaiah 58:11

Prayer: God, we are standing in the need of prayer. We confess that we are wavering between you and our self-seeking desires, and for this we ask for forgiveness. We desire to have a relationship with you built on faith, trust, and obedience. Thank you for hearing and answering our prayer that we ask in the Worthy name of Jesus. Amen. © 2021 Sonya Johnson

Great is Our God!

SHOUT the Cry of Victory 30 Days of Prayer Day 24

Dedicating 30 days to redirect my focus on God, the Problem-Solver instead of the trials, hardships, and sorrows has resulted in active knowledge–a personal experience of the power of Prayer.

If Jesus was sitting in the same room with you, what would you say to Him? And that is exactly the scenario that I think of when I pray.

Prayer is a time of intimate communication with God. In fact prayer is so vital that Romans 8:26 (CSB) tells us that: “In the same way the Spirit also helps us in our weakness, because we do not know what to pray for as we should, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us with inexpressible groanings.”

And Jesus, our Intercessor is presenting us as faultless before God when our prayers of confession and repentance are prayed with humility and honesty: “Who is he who condemns? It is Christ who died, and furthermore is also risen, who is even at the right hand of God, who also makes intercession for us.” Romans 8:34

Our Spiritual Team is actively working on our behalf for us to receive our reward of eternal life. “The Lord is not slow in keeping his promise, as some understand slowness. He is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance. But the day of the Lord will come like a thief.” 2 Peter 3:9

Be alert! Pay attention to the subtle deceptions that our adversary and most powerful enemy attempts to use against us. Serving God places us in continuous spiritual warfare. Yet, we know that God will always be in control. Satan does not have unleashed power. He is a bully who causes situations to arise and vex our souls. This is why we stay prayed up…when problems begin to escalate, say that prayer out loud.

But Moses told the people, “Do not be afraid. Stand firm and you will see the LORD’s salvation, which He will accomplish for you today; for the Egyptians you see today, you will never see again. The LORD will fight for you; you need only to be still.” Exodus 14:13-14

Last week, I called to schedule medical transportation and the agent was giving me a hard time. I said, “God, help us with this problem.” Immediately, her tone of voice changed and she asked me to please hold while she checked the schedule. Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. James 4:7.

The LORD appeared to us in the past, saying: “I have loved you with an everlasting love; therefore I have drawn you with loving devotion.” Jeremiah 31:3.

Dedicate time to spend with God in prayer. Prayer increases our faith and trust, and honors God. Our reward, He unleashes His mighty power against the enemy, and brings victory to our situation. Servants of the Most-High God, pray continuously over every aspect of your life. God is faithful. He never fails!

Prayer: God, thank you for reaching out to us with your unfailing love. We desire to have a deeper relationship with you. Thank you for hearing and answering our prayer that we ask in Jesus’ name. Amen. © 2021 Sonya Johnson

“I Will Listen”

In those days, when you pray, I will listen. If you look for me wholeheartedly, you will find me. Jeremiah 29:12-13

I have participated for 22 days in the SHOUT the Cry of Victory 30 days of Prayer. It has taken three weeks to establish constant communication with God and to build my faith and trust in Him. How did I accomplish this seemingly impossible task? I have been talking to God through praise and prayer throughout the day and night. Many whispers of prayer have passed through my lips to do my part in seeking God. Yet, my journey continues.

I have not reached spiritual self-actualization in which I have achieved my fullest potential. We strive daily because Sanctification is a life-long process. Jesus prayed, “Give us this day, our daily bread.” We cannot live off of yesterday’s prayers or Bible study. Yes, our relationship with God is high maintenance [no disrespect intended]. Several times a day, we must seek God and commune with Him through prayer, study, and praise. It is our faith and trust in God that reveals the depth of our relationship with Him.

The effort that we put into building a rock-solid relationship with God makes the difference between having unwavering faith, trust, peace, and inner joy or being distraught filled with hopelessness, anxieties, and worries. God loves us! At the end of the day, we may reflect and realize that we did not offer one prayer of thankfulness. Even so, do not fixate on what you failed to do. Instead, take a deep breath and begin to worship your Heavenly Father with praise. 

We build our faith through diligent study of the Bible. Knowing God’s character and His promises gives us hope when our trials and sorrows appear overwhelming. God promises to hear our prayers, “I will listen.” God is only a prayer away. Pray an honest prayer. God already knows that we are feeling down and out. He knows that our faith is weak. Still, our sins and challenges are never too big to seek God’s forgiveness and divine intervention.

Have mercy upon me, O God, according to thy lovingkindness: according unto the multitude of thy tender mercies blot out my transgressions. Create in me a clean heart, O God, and renew a right spirit within me. Psalm 51, verses 1 and 10.

Are you aware that Psalm 51 is King David’s prayer of forgiveness for committing adultery with Bathsheba? His actions were heinous. David abused his power by ordering her husband to be placed at the frontline of the battle, so he could be killed. Yet, God, with His unconditional love, mercies, and grace, gave the man who was once a shepherd boy that killed Goliath complete forgiveness. David confessed and repented. Did God forgive him? Yes, the second child born to David and Bathsheba was Solomon, the wisest man that ever lived.

God views sin as sin. Through human eyes we see sin in various categories considering one sin to be worse than another sin. Praise God that He is our Judge: If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. 1 John 1:9

We can change our perception of God by taking action to go above and beyond our human natures of only offering mediocre worship. Seek God as if your life depends on it [because it does]. Jesus replied: “Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.” Matthew 22:37

Bible study: Psalm 51

Prayer: God, we ask forgiveness for not seeking you wholeheartedly. Please hear our prayer. Cleanse us from all unrighteousness and fill us with your Holy Spirit. We ask this prayer in the Worthy name of Jesus. Amen. © 2021 Sonya Johnson 

Jehovah Jireh–Our Provider

“That is why I tell you not to worry about everyday life—whether you have enough food and drink, or enough clothes to wear. Isn’t life more than food, and your body more than clothing?” Matthew 6:25 NLT

Reflect on the name of God–Jehovah Jireh. How strong is your belief that God is your Provider? We readily accept and believe the promises made by people whose promises are dependent on the right circumstances. Do you doubt that your employer will pay your salary as agreed? Yet, many individuals have lost their jobs, benefits, and pensions due to bankruptcy during the pandemic.

Most of us are guilty. Deep within our hearts, we pray, but we doubt God’s promises to take care of us [to supply all of our needs]. God always comes through on His promises. Sadly, we are the obstacles that block our blessings. It takes the human effort of total belief [faith] in Jehovah Jireh to receive. He is the God who sees and knows exactly what we need when we need it. All He asks us to do is: Trust in the LORD with all your heart; do not depend on your own understanding Proverbs 3:5.

“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.

God has given each of us with a seed of faith. Faith requires constant and consistent action; trust and obedience are necessary for our seed of faith to grow. Would we buy a houseplant only to let it die because of lack of water and sunshine? Absolutely not! Faith is the key to having an abundant life complete with peace and confidence because we believe that we serve the Most-High God. But without faith, it is impossible to please God. Hebrews 11:6.

Our Father hears and answers every prayer [in His own time]. The test of faith requires waiting. We are accustomed to instant gratification, which causes us to expect an immediate answer to our prayers. But we do not serve a “hurry up” God. He tells us to wait. During the waiting period, either our faith grows stronger or weaker. Do not give up! Patience produces total dependence on God!

Wait patiently for the LORD. Be brave and courageous. Yes, wait patiently for the Lord. Psalm 27:14

Faith allows us to see God as our only Provider. Live your life with confidence. And never forget, in the seasons of darkness, Jehovah Jireh lovingly holds us in His hands.

Prayer: God, we ask you to forgive our doubt, unbelief, and impatience. Thank you for taking care of us despite our inability to praise, and thank you for daily mercies. We are in need spiritually and financially. Thank you for hearing and answering our prayer that we ask in the Worthy name of Jesus. Amen. © 2021 Sonya Johnson

The Betrayal

How would you react to betrayal from someone that you loved? Anger is usually the first response. The emotional pain runs deep, almost to the point of your breath being taken away. But you come to realize that retaliation is not the answer to moving forward.

Let’s add a twist: How would you react if you found out ahead of time of the plot of betrayal? Again, this situation would require logical and rational thought processes, not an emotional reaction.

In the late 80s, I accepted a position as a Medical Terminology Instructor at a Vocational school. The requisite of the position was to develop a syllabus that the State Education Department would approve for the accreditation of the Medical Secretary course. In addition, I included learning tools and study plans. The syllabus was approved, and all was well. After four months on the job, on Wednesday, one of the other male teachers asked me to stay after class. He assured me that it was strictly business. Mr. Jones [name changed] relayed that Friday would be my last day because the school’s owner was bringing back the former [older] instructor who was unemployed, and since I was younger, it would be easier for me to find another job.

I was devastated but knew that I had to develop an action plan. So on Thursday, after the work day ended, I gathered all of my study plans and teaching tools [not part of the State’s approval syllabus] along with my personal effects. When I arrived Friday morning, the former teacher sat in the lobby. I had never seen her before that morning, but I knew it was my replacement from the description. I was told by the secretary to see the Administrator immediately.

When I sat down, the owner simply told me that I was being terminated because of complaints. I asked for clarification, to which he responded that he did not have to provide that information. I handed him the keys to the building in an envelope. The look on his face was priceless. But the story does not stop there. I received a call within one hour from leaving the building with a threat to report me to the State if I did not return the additional teaching materials. The expectation was that they would have all of my supplemental teaching plans and student learning guides. 

Knowledge of the betrayal gave me time to call the State and explain the pending situation. I was not required to provide the school with any materials that they did not provide or pay for outside of the syllabus packet submitted for their approval. Divine Intervention: Unemployment hearings were conducted via conference call with both the employer and former employee on the phone. The Adjudicator asked the owner two questions: 1. Why was I terminated? 2. Did I receive any disciplinary actions or warnings for the alleged infractions? Not only did I receive approval for unemployment, but God also provided additional monies for all of my necessities until I found employment. 

Just when we think that our suffering is too great to bear, the scriptures remind us of the suffering that Jesus went through for humanity.

When Jesus had said these things, He was troubled in spirit, and testified and said, “Most assuredly, I say to you, one of you will betray Me.” John 13:21.

Jesus washed the feet and ate the Last Supper with His disciples including Judas, the disciple who would betray Him. Which one of us could have possibly known a betrayal plot like this and allow it to happen? Not one of us! Reading the stories of the Last Supper, the Crucifixion, and the Resurrection of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, we recognize that Jesus is so much more than we realize.

It is my prayer that one day each of us will receive our reward of Eternal life. I want to meet the Savior who suffered, bled, died, and was resurrected, so I can bow down on my knees and say, “Thank you, Jesus!” I can only imagine.

Bible study: John 13

Prayer: God, we just want to thank you for the Plan of Redemption. And, Jesus, we thank you for giving your life for us that we may have eternal life if we so choose. We ask this prayer in the Worthy Name of Jesus. Amen. © 2021 Sonya Johnson

It Takes Courage for the Journey

SHOUT the Cry of Victory 30 Days of Prayer Day 13

One of the hardest things that you will ever do is maintain the courage to keep your covenant vow with God. You will be tested by Satan, who will use your closest friends, family, and your desires to test your convictions to serve God. Our desires indicate whether or not we are serving God with unwavering faith, trust, and obedience. Often we fall into the temptations of sin, still, you must pray and stand against the deceptions of spiritual wickedness. Human Effort + Divine Intervention = A Victorious Outcome! 

“Therefore everyone who hears these words of mine and puts them into practice is like a wise man who built his house on the rock.” Matthew 7:24

Yesterday, I reached the crossroads of Obedience and Disobedience. God has spoken to me through my Pastor and several other individuals to stop all communication with an individual who no longer served God and did not have my best interest in mind. You know what? I prayed and asked God to give me the courage and strength to completely sever this relationship. God answered my prayer immediately. It happened yesterday. The relationship is over!

What made the difference? Divine intervention! God knows that I love Him with all of my heart, soul, and mind. Before the 30 days of Prayer, I identified deficits in my character that required change. I prayed for spiritual growth and a closer relationship with Jesus Christ. Yes, God reached down from heaven and manifested His power to eliminate a huge problem that I struggled with for a long time.

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

We can agree that life is tough! Even so, obedience to God places us in the position to receive the blessings of peace and inner joy. When we do our part: Having courage [standing our ground] against all deceptions [people, places, and things] that Satan uses to lead us down the “Road of Disobedience,” then our Warrior God steps in, “The LORD will fight for you; you need only to be still.” Exodus 14:14.

Choose to always obey God! Our reward of eternal life depends on the humility to be an obedient servant of the Most-High God.

Scripture: But Moses told the people, “Do not be afraid. Stand firm and you will see the LORD’s salvation, which He will accomplish for you today; for the Egyptians you see today, you will never see again.” Exodus 14:13

Prayer: God, we ask for forgiveness of the sin of disobedience. We desire to serve you wholeheartedly. Please help us have the courage to give up the people and the desires that separate us from you. Thank you for your divine intervention. We ask this prayer in the Worthy Name of Jesus. Amen.

© 2021 Sonya Johnson

Faith Makes the Difference

So Jesus, after raising His eyes and seeing that a large crowd was coming to Him, said to Philip, “Where are we to buy bread so that these people may eat?” But He was stating this only to test him, for He Himself knew what He intended to do. Philip answered Him, “Two hundred denarii worth of bread is not enough for them, for each to receive just a little!” One of His disciples, Andrew, Simon Peter’s brother, said to Him, “There is a boy here who has five barley loaves and two fish; but what are these for so many people?” John 6:2-9 NASB

The miracle of Jesus feeding the five thousand men plus women and children reflects His love and compassion for humanity, and His Omnipotence–being all powerful. Two disciples reacted to the situation in the same way that many of us react to our problems: Either we see Jesus as having limited power or we focus on our circumstances more than the Problem-Solver. 

Interestingly, Jesus’ disciples had so little faith in Him even though they were constantly in the physical presence of Jesus. Phillip took no action. He focused on the lack of money and gave Jesus the pessimistic reality of the situation. Andrew’s optimism sparked his desire to search among the crowd for food, but he returned with deflated faith. Yes, Andrew took action, but he did not believe that Jesus was the Son of God.

Either we have faith or we do not have faith: Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen. Hebrews 11:1. Faith says: I know that my God will take care of this according to His will.

Jesus was testing His disciples on two points: First, acknowledging Him as the Son of God, and testing them to reveal their lack of faith.

Many times we pray and become despondent when God does not answer our prayers. But God always answers our prayers. It will also come to pass that before they call, I will answer; while they are still speaking, I will listen. Isaiah 65:24. 

Asking God to take action, but not believing He can solve our problems, prevents God from taking action. And without faith, it is impossible to please God because anyone who approaches Him must believe that He exists and that He rewards those who earnestly seek Him. Hebrews 11:6

When we see that God is BIGGER than our problems, we approach Him reverently, boldly, and with great faith!

Bible study: John 6

Prayer: God, please forgive our doubt and unbelief. Thank you for loving and taking care of us. We come to you asking in faith to alleviate our burdens and provide for our needs according to your will. In Jesus’ Worthy Name, we pray. Amen.