God loves us – Page 34 – Steps 2 Success with Spiritual Solutions

Self-Control Leads to Optimal Health

Self-Control Leads to Optimal Health Sabbath Devotional July 21, 2023

“For you were bought at a price; therefore glorify God in your body and in your spirit, which is God’s.” —1 Corinthians 6:20

By managing our time and being mindful of the stimuli we allow to influence us, we can improve our intellect and strengthen our relationship with Christ. Yet, many believers are suffering from anxiety and worries which have escalated to physical illnesses from the never-ending stressors of life. Instead of having the peace of God, their lives are filled with chaos.

Something is wrong! Despite having to-do lists, they often find themselves struggling to complete their daily tasks. Never having enough time causes their lives to become a burden. When we perceive a situation as impossible, we develop a sense of hopelessness which leaves us feeling too drained to pray. The lack of prayer always isolates the believer from God resulting in the emotional distress of discouragement, guilt, and a sense of failure.

“Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect.” —Romans 12:2

Unfortunately, Christians are just as vulnerable and caught up in today’s increasingly rapid pace of life which causes more problems than it solves. Overwork and busyness lead to mental fatigue, poor nutrition, a decline in our cognition, emotional instability, poor physical health, and spiritual bankruptcy. Overwhelmed by the chaos, we stop praying and forget God’s many promises to help us in our distress.

Overloaded schedules along with the hurried pace of life create mental weariness and physical fatigue that obscures the mental acuity necessary to identify the reasons for one’s chaotic lifestyle. As we go about our daily lives, we are often confronted with “Distractions” that always hinder the completion of everyday tasks and goals. While it may be easy to dismiss these distractions as normal occurrences, it’s important to remember they are a form of spiritual warfare.

“Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes. For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms.” —Ephesians 6:11-12, NIV

Although we are constantly engaged in spiritual battles, we can discern the difference between distractions and trials by the outcomes. Distractions are temptations that separate us from God by turning our attention away from Him. Trials enable us to grow spiritually and develop a righteous character. When facing the unexpected challenges of spiritual warfare, we must remain vigilant and prepared to fight.

We know the daily distractions that trouble us are warfare because they are always the things that capture our interests and cater to our preferences. This is not a coincidence. Temptations are skillfully developed by Satan and his evil angels [present on this earth] to disrupt our peace and separate us from God. Yet, Satan and his demonic angels have limitations enforced by Christ—they are not Omniscient, All-Knowing, and cannot read our minds. We are creatures of habit, so they create personalized distractions by simply observing our behaviors and habits.

Satan also uses people to interrupt our already busy life. Although we are commanded to help others, we must pray for wisdom in our level of involvement and monitor our time spent outside of our too-busy lives. Our priorities are to maintain our relationship with Christ and establish a healthy balance in our lives.

Reflection: Are my decisions [or someone else’s decisions] producing my chaotic lifestyle? Yes!

The number one distraction in 2023 is excessive screen time. At the end of the day, to relax, we watch our favorite programs, enjoy social media, play online games, shop online, or text and talk on our cell phones. We lose track of time and before we realize it, we have spent hours entertaining ourselves instead of praying a prayer of gratitude for our provisions and asking for spiritual strength.

“Watch yourselves, so that you may not lose what we have worked for, but may win a full reward.” —2 John 1:8

It is easy to feel defeated when thinking about an unhealthy lifestyle. Where does the energy come from to make changes? To acknowledge our situation by admitting that something is definitely wrong but failing to take action because we don’t know where to start will never produce good results.

The only way for believers to possess an optimal level of health is to stay on the Path of Righteousness and we need Divine Help to accomplish that life-long goal!

Self-control is the answer to most of our difficulties. Yet, we require spiritual strength from the Holy Spirit who empowers us to develop action plans to rid ourselves of all the unhealthy habits that allowed various forms of chaos into our lives.

“But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control. Against such there is no law.” —Galatians 5:22-23

We are not helpless! God always requires human effort before we receive Divine Help. God has given us the ability to practice self-control. Self-control is a fruit of the Spirit. It is the ability to control our thoughts, emotions, and actions. We can say no to distractions and disruptions.

“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

Every human being created in the image of God has received the gift of a rational mind with the power to think, the ability to reason, and to be resourceful by making choices that enhance our lives. We are capable of assessing the causative factors which prevent us from achieving optimal health in every area of our lives and taking appropriate actions to immediately remedy the situation.

Without biblical knowledge and a spiritual understanding of the Scriptures, we will not practice self-control or strive to live our best life. Our desires will lead us to follow the same destructive path that unbelievers are on.

In studying the Creation of Earth, found in Genesis chapter 1, we notice that Jesus was intentional and systematic in creating the Earth. “And God said, Let there be light: and there was light. And God saw the light, that it was good: and God divided the light from the darkness” (Genesis 1:3-4).

Human Effort Required: When studying the Creation story, there is something that we probably have overlooked—”And God saw that it was good.” Jesus did not rush through the Creation process, He paused to affirm that everything He created on that day was good before He moved forward. With humility, we must possess the willingness to take a daily pause break and ask ourselves, Am I living my best life? Pray for Divine Help to change your mindset and lifestyle. Confess and repent of the lack of self-control, and take action to change your life!

We were created to live healthy, productive lives. Invest in yourself by eliminating all obstacles that threaten to weaken your sound mind, physical health, and spiritual relationship with Christ. Commit to strengthening your mind, body, and soul, by practicing self-control. It is not an easy task! And others may be offended by your decision to abruptly change your lifestyle, but remain strong, every Christian has the spiritual responsibility to uphold God’s Righteous Standards!

Establish boundaries for yourself and for those who tread on your time or bring chaos into your life.

Eliminate purchasing tangible items. You have everything you need. An overabundance of physical things creates a cluttered mind and a spirit of greed.
Time Management–Too many things on your to-do list prevent you from enjoying life. Make a realistic schedule that includes time with God. Rest and relaxation along with the ability to laugh and have fun creates a work-life-spiritual balance.
Purchase nutritious foods and cook your meals. High-Calorie convenience foods rob the body of strength and wreck the intellect.
Choose an alternate outside environment to exercise. We require fresh air and sunshine. The gym is okay when the weather is bad, but does nothing for us spiritually. God created nature for us!
Change your temperament. Impatience, harshness, anger, unforgiveness, and criticism are negative behaviors that prevent God’s internal gifts of peace and joy.
Learn to establish boundaries regarding your time. For those who desire constant help and favors, do not enable them. And respectfully decline invitations that serve little to no purpose in your life.

With positive changes, you can enjoy the peace of God. Once your lifestyle begins to improve, take a break. Go on a mini vacation, preferably a nature trip, even if it’s only for one day. You will feel re-energized and gain confidence from your effort to create positive changes.

“The righteous cry out, and the Lord hears, And delivers them out of all their troubles.” —Psalm 34:17

God honors our diligence when we do our part in restoring equilibrium to our mind and body. The Holy Spirit will empower you by refreshing your mind, body, and soul. Deliverance from our troubles is one of God’s promises.

Pray: Utilize some of your extra time by spending additional time in worship. God is our priority. We receive mental, emotional, physical, and spiritual strength from the Holy Spirit. Always take the time to pray for guidance, wisdom, and protection.

Study the Word of God: Choose a chapter of the Bible and study it every day. Pray for the Holy Spirit to give you discernment of God’s Truth. It is best to read the same chapter twice a day. If you cannot recall a significant part of what you studied then do not move forward. Restudy the chapter for 2-3 days.

“I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” —Philippians 4:13

We can achieve optimal mental, emotional, physical, and spiritual health! Since the stress of former counterproductive habits is eliminated, consider new hobbies and activities. Yet, we must always be on guard for the distractions and habits that kept us in the bondage of chaos. Take a daily pause and prayer break to ask for the Divine strength and wisdom to stay on track to living a life of optimal health.

Throughout our day, we can meditate on the Scriptures, listen to inspirational music and pray. The Holy Spirit will provide spiritual vitality to our minds, bodies, and souls. With determination, self-control, and Divine help, our lives will be organized and filled with peace and our hearts with overflowing joy.

With the human effort of self-control and the empowerment of the Holy Spirit, we can live spiritually healthy and prosperous lives. Amen!

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

Prayer: God, we are taking a pause and prayer break to ask for Your Divine Intervention in our lives. We are tired of the turmoil that is impacting our mental, physical, and spiritual well-being. We are tired of the turmoil that is impacting our mental, physical, and spiritual well-being. Please reveal the changes we need to make in our lifestyles. Thank You for the beauty of the Sabbath. We ask this prayer in Jesus’ name, Amen.

The Sabbath—A Time for Spiritual Restoration

No Time for Daily Worship? Restructure Your Time

No Time for Daily Worship? Restructure Your Time Devotional Reading July 19, 2023

Did you know that the busyness of life is a significant strategy of spiritual warfare? Distractions are Satan’s number one tactic to keep us from maintaining a close relationship with God. The little obsolete things that are meaningless waste our valuable time. Well-meaning individuals who ask for favors can add additional burdens to our already full schedule. At the end of the day, we are too exhausted to worship God. So, we promise to do better tomorrow, say a quick prayer, and fall asleep.

“So, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God.” —1 Corinthians 10:31

Reflection: What exactly am I doing with my time?

Certainly, it is not our intention to waste the blessing of each new day. Yet, every believer is accountable for how they use the 24 hours received from God’s faithfulness and mercies. Take immediate action! Pray a prayer of repentance and ask for the wisdom to restructure your life. Thinking about yesterday and how we failed to accomplish the important tasks on our to-do list and feeling guilty over days of missed worship is counterproductive. We can never retrieve lost time.

“If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God, who gives generously to all without reproach, and it will be given him.” —James 1:5

Pray and ask the Holy Spirit to reveal all time-eating obstacles including the behaviors of procrastination. Be honest! Do you allow others to interrupt your daily schedule? Pray for the courage to respectfully decline and say no [even to your whims of spontaneity].

With enthusiasm, approach your plan to identify and eliminate time-wasting activities, and move forward with determination. Begin today by making a written time log of the activities you have completed and the unfinished tasks. Revise your schedule and make worship with God your number one priority. Be consistent with the designated times that you choose for worship.

“But when you pray, go into your room, close the door, and pray to your Father, who is unseen. Then your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you.” —Matthew 6:6

Restructuring your life to achieve the highest level of productivity appears to be the goal. But spending time in worship with God every day is our spiritual goal which is the believer’s priority. Minute Devotionals are fine for a quick read while taking a work break, but do not substitute for the Prayer and Bible Study needed daily to enrich our relationship with Christ.

Every morning and evening, we need uninterrupted time with God [which includes spiritual meditation] to receive the blessings to replenish our minds, bodies, and souls. A hurry-up mindset produces ritualistic worship. As a result, we miss out on spiritual blessings necessary to maintain our relationship with Christ. No time for God results in spiritual depletion. Rushing through worship does not include time for the Holy Spirit to respond to the needs of our soul.

“For the eyes of the Lord are on the righteous, and his ears are open to their prayer.” —1 Peter 3:12

When I transitioned from direct patient care to a corporate setting, the constant grind produced extreme mental fatigue. By 2 pm, my stamina was down, and I had little energy to work for three more hours plus drive the hour-long journey home. The overwhelming fatigue threatened to overpower my ability to cope with the complexities of the job.

When I applied for the job, I prayed and was confident that transitioning to a non-clinical setting was God’s blessing. But my faith was weak, and I began to doubt whether or not God had blessed me. Discouraged, I made plans to look for another job. When God blesses us, He does not allow Satan to rob us of our blessings.

Holy Spirit to the rescue! One evening, I read a Devotional on using one’s lunchtime and work breaks to pray for strength. Believe me, I never thought about having worship while on the job. On my afternoon breaks, I separated myself and prayed for the blessings of mental acuity and physical strength. Does God answer our prayers for help? Yes, He does! The Holy Spirit gave me the spiritual strength to complete my shift and the guardian angels watched over me as I drove home.

Although the Quality versus Quantity concept does not apply to worship, we do not have to conduct lengthy worship sessions on our jobs. From the whisper of our prayers, we receive supernatural power for our minds and bodies.

“And when he had sent the multitudes away, he went up into a mountain apart to pray: and when the evening was come, he was there alone.” —Matthew 14:23

One thing is for certain when we invite the presence of God to come into our hearts through prayer, we will always receive the spiritual blessings of strength, wisdom, and peace. We have the privilege of praying any time of the day or night. With Divine Intervention, the activities of daily living and meaningful worship can easily be accomplished when our lives are in sync with God’s plans.

“You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart.” —Jeremiah 29:13

Commit to restoring your close relationship with Christ. God has given us every spiritual resource we need to worship Him in Spirit and Truth. All He asks of us is to put Him first by dedicating enough time to seek Him in worship. At least once a week, listen to an online sermon on the faithfulness of God. Attending church weekly is not enough to feed our starving souls. We need to worship more than ever in these perilous times.

Scripture: “Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, in everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.” —1 Thessalonians 5:16-18

Prayer: God, we love You and we just want to say Thank You for your amazing love, grace, and mercies. We need help in identifying and eliminating the behaviors and activities that are consuming our time and keeping us from having meaningful worship with You. We ask this prayer in the Worthy Name of Jesus, Amen.

Can We Live Righteously?

Can We Live Righteously? Devotional Reading July 18, 2023

My younger cousin applied for an internal position in Human Resources, but unfortunately, she didn’t have the necessary academic qualifications. Despite this, she did extremely well in the interview and expressed her willingness to complete the required courses. Due to her track record of being a great employee who consistently exceeded company goals, the executive decision was made to put the position on hold and pay for her education. My cousin completed the program and was ultimately promoted to the Human Resources Department.

We are created with the ability to pursue our dreams and goals on earth. Our desire and willingness to achieve, even though we face unforeseen struggles, reveals our inner strength of endurance and perseverance. To reach our goal, we face adversity head-on and tell ourselves that failure is not an option. When things get tough and we’ve done all we can, we approach God in prayer for His help. When our dreams come to fruition, we are overjoyed! Yet, the teamwork of our effort and God’s Divine Intervention allowed us to accomplish our goals.

Do we set spiritual goals? The general answer is usually yes about desiring eternal life, but the requirement to live righteously in our earthly lives to receive our reward is often met with resistance. The Christian Community is divided in their opinions about God’s expectation for us to live righteously. Some feel that God requires too much and we cannot meet His righteous expectations and those who are striving to stay on the Path of Righteousness proclaim, “With God’s Help, Yes, we can live righteously!”

“… ‘Be holy, for I am holy.’ ” —1 Peter 1:16.

Can We Live Righteously? What is Righteousness? We have four references.

“Righteousness is right doing, and it is by their deeds that all will be judged. Our characters are revealed by what we do.” Christ’s Object Lessons
“Righteousness is the perfect holiness of Christ. It is an essential attribute of the character of God.” Crosswalk.com
Righteousness is the perfect consistency of character and actions which align with God’s Righteous attributes.” Dr. C. Stanley
“Holiness is the result of the working of the Divine grace when we bow into submission to God and practice discipline and restrain ourselves from willfully sinning against God with the Help of the Holy Spirit.” EGW

“Make every effort to live in peace with everyone and to be holy; without holiness, no one will see the Lord.” —Hebrews 12:14

Righteousness is defined as God’s Divine and Holy Attributes and Christ’s Perfect Righteous Character. We demonstrate spiritual transformation through the constant resistance to sin as reflected by our choices, character traits, thoughts, habits, and actions which should always reflect Christ’s Character.

“For it is by grace you have been saved through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God—not by works, so that no one can boast.” —Ephesians 2:8-9

Because of Christ’s death, in faith, we receive Salvation through His grace. Grace is unmerited favor—we receive what we do not deserve. Through Grace, we are covered by Christ’s Righteousness which allows us to receive the gift of eternal life, but it is our choice whether or not to do so.

“For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.” —John 3:16

Our faith proclaims, “I believe in Jesus Christ that He is the Son of God who died for my sins. I accept Jesus as my personal Savior, and I confess and repent of my sins.”

Our love for Christ allows the Holy Spirit to produce a heart that experiences daily spiritual growth and transformation. We no longer desire sinful activities. And yes, we strive to live righteously because of our overwhelming love for our Savior and Redeemer. The human effort of daily surrender and obedience indicates that we desire a heart-to-heart relationship with Jesus. The Holy Spirit is always ready to provide us with the spiritual strength to resist all forms of sin in our earthly journey. Pray continuously!

“But as he who called you is holy, you also be holy in all your conduct…” —1 Peter 1:15

We cannot gain knowledge of God’s Righteous Attributes, the Character of Christ, and what God expects of us through mere guesswork or speculation. The diligent study of the Bible is required to learn about God’s standards of Righteousness and how we must conduct ourselves. Still, we cannot live righteously by using only our efforts. When faced with a dilemma, immediately pray for Help. The Holy Spirit is our Teacher and speaks to us through our conscience when faced with right and wrong and truth versus error.

“If you know that He is righteous, you know that everyone who practices righteousness is born of Him.” —1 John 2:29

The following is an excerpt of a testimonial from a Crosswalk article entitled “What is Righteous?”

I used to think righteous living had more to do with behavioral modification than heart transformation. Outward appearance of holiness was what mattered to me, rather than Spirit-filled change. I thought that if I tried to stop cussing as much and stop watching rated-R movies, then that meant I was living righteously. While those are good and righteous works, the more I read the Bible, the more I learned that I had it backward. Righteousness actually produces those works, not the other way around.

There are times when we will fall into sin. “For a righteous man may fall seven times And rise again, But the wicked shall fall by calamity” (Proverbs 24:16). “In this fallen world, the difference between a righteous and an unrighteous man is not whether they fall or not, but rather what they do when they fall.” Christ Church

King David’s Prayer of Repentance: “Have mercy upon me, O God, according to thy lovingkindness: according unto the multitude of thy tender mercies blot out my transgressions. Wash me thoroughly from mine iniquity, and cleanse me from my sin. For I acknowledge my transgressions: and my sin is ever before me. Against thee, thee only, have I sinned, and done this evil in thy sight…” —Psalm 51:1-4

“No repentance is genuine that does not work reformation. The righteousness of Christ is not a cloak to cover unconfessed and unforsaken sin; it is a principle of life that transforms the character and controls the conduct. Holiness is wholeness for God; it is the entire surrender of heart and life to the indwelling of the principles of heaven.”-The Desire of Ages

Do not fall prey to the mindset of “God understands that I will commit sins” or “I’m a work-in-progress” to justify unrighteous sinful actions. Remember that Satan brings spiritual warfare into every Christian’s life. Sin places us into Spiritual Bankruptcy separating us from a Holy and Righteous God. Continuous sinning changes our desire for righteousness and has fatal consequences.

Living righteously usually causes separation from family, friends, and significant others who are unbelievers. Do not follow your feelings! Never lose your reward of eternal life for someone who has no desire to surrender their heart to love Christ.

When we love Christ and have the determination to be loyal followers, the Holy Spirit gives us spiritual discernment to recognize temptation and the strength to resist evil. We have a Spiritual Team who is just a prayer away. Yes, living righteously is within our reach. Amen.

Reflection: “When we submit ourselves to Christ, the heart is united with His heart, the will is merged in His will, the mind becomes one with His mind, the thoughts are brought into captivity to Him; we live His life. This is what it means to be clothed with the garment of His righteousness….” EGW

Prayer: God, we surrender our hearts to You and ask for the anointing, power, and presence of the Holy Spirit to lead, guide, and direct us. We desire to live righteously as we prepare for the soon coming of Christ. Thank You for hearing and answering our prayer that we ask in Jesus’ Holy and Righteous name, Amen.

The Lord of the Sabbath Gives Joy and Peace

Jesus is Our Safe Place

Jesus is Our Safe Place Devotional Reading July 13, 2023

When we think of safety, we usually think of our physical safety. But our spiritual, mental, and emotional safety are also important to our well-being. Our mind-body equilibrium is threatened when we perceive unexpected life events, trials, and hardships as overwhelming. All of us have experienced distressing times that leave our minds and souls greatly troubled.

“God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.” —Psalm 46:1

From within the depths of our souls, we have a void that only God can fill. Jesus created us to have an unbreakable bond with God which is never severed until we breathe our last breath of life. Our loving Savior is always aware of the vicissitudes of life and the continuous spiritual warfare that threatens to crush our hopes, leaving us feeling discouraged and defeated.

“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

The faithful have many promises of comfort from our Heavenly Father that soothes the troubled mind. It is a freewill decision to take action and receive the comfort and peace that only comes from being safe in the arms of our Lord and Savior.

“Give ear to my words, O Lord, consider my groaning. Give attention to the sound of my cry, my King and my God, for to you do I pray.” —Psalm 5:1-2

Do you believe in the One who laid down His life and possessed the Divine power to raise Himself from the chains of death? If yes, then believe that Jesus will fulfill His promises by presenting all of your burdens to Him in prayer.

“Have mercy on me, O LORD, for I am weak, O LORD, heal me, for my bones are troubled. My soul also is greatly troubled…” —Psalm 6:2-3

When we feel alone and no one can provide us with respite from our distress, we must take our heart’s sorrows to God in prayer. We limit God’s ability to help us when we doubt Him. The giant waves of unbelief in the power and presence of the Holy Spirit keep our minds in turmoil. But Jesus Christ knows that He is Omnipotent and just like He reminded Jeremiah, He reminds us of His love and power.

“Behold, I am the LORD, the God of all flesh. Is there anything too hard for Me?” —Jeremiah 32:27

Pray and ask Jesus to provide you with comfort and healing. Be honest and confess your unbelief. Ask for the anointing of the Comforter. Once you have prayed a prayer of faith, meditate quietly and allow the Holy Spirit to give you spiritual, mental, and emotional strength and healing.

“Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.” —Isaiah 41:10

Prayer: God, we present ourselves to You asking for deliverance from the anxieties and worries that keep us awake at night. We ask for forgiveness for our unbelief in Your love and power. We pray for comfort for our troubled minds and souls. Hear our prayer, O Lord, and put gladness in our hearts. In Jesus’ Worthy name, we pray. Amen.

Our Role in Spiritual Self-Governance

Our Role in Spiritual Self-Governance Devotional Reading— July 12, 2023

For most of my life, I held firm to the thought that humanity cannot self-govern based on the lack of desire and learned behaviors. Yet, I just listened to a Devotional Reading entitled “Prove Yourself” in which the author, E.G. White, provides biblical proof that God created us with the ability to govern ourselves if we willingly ask for the indwelling and help of the Holy Spirit.

Praying for guidance from the Holy Spirit, I began researching the Christian believer’s role in spiritual self-governance. And then I prayed again asking the Holy Spirit to reveal the plain-talk breakdown of a theologically complex subject.

We have received God-given Innate Gifts: “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 are recipients of God’s Grace: “For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God—not by works, so that no one can boast.” —Ephesians 2:8-9, NIV

We have the Holy Spirit as our Teacher, Guide, and the Giver of all Spiritual Gifts: 1. “The Spirit of the LORD will rest on Him–the Spirit of wisdom and understanding, the Spirit of counsel and strength, the Spirit of knowledge and fear of the LORD” (Isaiah 11:2). 2. “But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control. Against such there is no law” (Galatians 5:22-23).

Since we were born into sin—inherited from our earthly parents, Adam and Eve, we require the continuous help of the Holy Spirit: “The heart is deceitful above all things And desperately wicked; Who can know it?” —Jeremiah 17:9

“The Christian principle of self-government is God ruling internally from the heart of the believer. In order to have true liberty, man must willingly (voluntarily) be governed internally by the Spirit and the Word of God [the Bible] rather than by external forces. Government is first internal (causative), then extends outwardly (effect).” Dr. Elizabeth Youmans

“Create a clean [pure] heart in me, O God, and renew a right [faithful, steadfast] spirit within me.” —Psalm 51:10

Do we desire to have clean hearts by living righteously? Are we willing to surrender and obey the guidance of the Holy Spirit in every aspect of our lives? Our internal heart’s desires reveal themselves through our external lifestyles indicating if we put God first and have the desire to follow and obey Him.

How do we begin and end each day? What are we praying for? Our prayers of surrender must be specific: “Lord, I surrender myself to You today. I ask You to anoint my mind with the power and presence of the Holy Spirit and I pray for the wisdom and discernment to recognize and resist the spiritual warfare of temptation. Give me the strength to overcome my internal battle of desiring the things that are not part of Your plan for my life. In Jesus’ name, Amen.”

Leviticus chapters 19 and 20 record the Lord’s emphasis on being holy. The word for holy in Hebrew is “qadash,” which means to be sanctified, consecrated, and dedicated or to be separated from the world and worldliness.

“Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new.” —2 Corinthians 5:17

As new creatures, our love for God is demonstrated by clean [pure] hearts as evidenced by our faith, obedience, and surrender to the Holy Spirit’s guidance. We intentionally avoid sin and worldly activities when striving to live Holy. In humility, we realize that we desperately need Divine Intervention to overcome temptation and sinful habits which is reflected in the time we spend in prayer and Bible study.

Our way of living reflects whether we have surrendered ourselves fully to God or not. If we continue to engage in the same behaviors as we did before accepting Jesus as our Savior, it indicates that we still have corrupt hearts.

We must be honest in our spiritual self-assessment: “Do I desire to be a child of God or a slave of Satan?” There is no middle ground. Either we are thinking, speaking, and practicing our previous sinful behaviors by falling into the same temptations of pursuing self-satisfaction or we recognize that we are sinners saved by grace and intentionally surrender and consecrate ourselves to God every day.

Our Spiritual Responsibility: “Seek the Lord and his strength; seek his presence continually!” —1 Chronicles 16:11.

During a church’s Children’s story, the question was asked, Have you ever prayed and asked God to help you? The little boy who appeared to be about 7 or 8 years old answered, Yes, I didn’t understand how to do the math problems. I prayed and asked Jesus to help me, and He did, I got all of the answers right.

Like a young child who does not have the intellectual maturity to analyze and try to figure out how God will intervene, all we need to do is pray in faith and believe that when we ask for the presence or help of the Holy Spirit, we will receive an immediate answer of yes to our prayers.

The Holy Spirit who can be everywhere to everyone remains a mystery. Jesus told Nicodemus: “The wind blows where it wishes, and you hear the sound of it, but cannot tell where it comes from and where it goes. So is everyone who is born of the Spirit.” —John 3:8

God honors those who desire to have a pure heart and put forth the effort to invite the Holy Spirit to govern their lives. We use our sound minds to make the right choices in conjunction with the power of the Holy Spirit. Our resistance to the evil of worldly temptations requires using self-control and immediately praying for the Divine Strength to overcome.

Although we practice spiritual self-governance, we cannot fight spiritual warfare or transform ourselves into the likeness of Christ without the Holy Spirit. Because of the inheritance of a sinful heart, we need the intervention of the Holy Spirit every second, minute, and hour of the day. Jesus promised if we ask for the Holy Spirit’s Divine Power, we will receive it.

Breathe on me, Breath of God
Until my heart is pure
Until my will is one with Thine
To do and to endure…Edwin Hatch

We need the Breath of the Holy Spirit to breathe on us throughout our earthly journey. Human Effort and Divine Intervention is the only way we will continue on the Path of Righteousness. Sanctification is a lifelong [earthly] journey of spiritual transformation. And we desperately need all the Divine Help that is available!

How do we know the Holy Spirit is working within to transform us?

Praying and studying the Scriptures become second nature. Our hearts overflow with love for God. We strive to have a clean heart through surrender, faith, and obedience. We resist temptation and sinful activities by saying a firm no to our desires and the influence of others. We seek to please God by praying for the revelation of His will and governing our desires to be aligned with His will.

Yes, the Christian’s ability to practice spiritual self-governance along with the Holy Spirit’s presence gives us the power to overcome sin. With faith and God’s grace from which we have received the Holy Spirit, we can live righteously and have clean hearts.

Prayer: God, we ask You to forgive us of our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. We desire a clean heart. We pray for the Breath of the Holy Spirit to breathe on us. Lord, we express our willingness to surrender to Your will and make a covenant vow to faithfully obey that we may be governed by the Holy Spirit. In Jesus’ Holy name, we pray. Amen.

God’s Chosen Path Always Includes Spiritual Adversity

God’s Chosen Path Always Includes Spiritual Adversity Devotional Reading, July 10, 2023

“And about the ninth hour, Jesus cried with a loud voice, saying, Eli, Eli, lama sabachthani? That is to say, My God, my God, why hast thou forsaken me?” —Matthew 27:46

The pitiful cry of those last words uttered by Jesus on the cross indicates His immense grief from being separated from God, His Father. Jesus’ words of desperation and agony were not a result of the physical pain from the beatings, nails in his hands and feet, or the crown of thorns on His head but from bearing the sins of every human being from the creation of Adam and Eve to every person born on the planet Earth.

Accepting Jesus Christ as our personal Savior places us on a Chosen Path [of Righteousness] which requires faith, trust, obedience, and daily surrender to God. To stay on the Chosen Path, we must endure spiritual trials and tribulations. The walk with Jesus is the toughest journey we will ever face in our earthly lives.

Spiritual Adversity is referred to in different ways: Trials, Tribulations, Hardships, Storms, and Dark Seasons. Yes, these adjectives describe the troubles, suffering, persecution, and difficulties that always produce mental, emotional, and spiritual distress, and often include physical challenges. Certainly, if we had a choice, we would avoid spiritual adversity at all costs. Yet, these challenges that we must endure in life test and build our faith, trust, love, hope, and perseverance which produces spiritual growth and transformation.

“Then Jesus said to his disciples, ‘If anyone wants to become my follower, he must deny himself, take up his cross, and follow me.’ ” —Matthew 16:24

Many post-modern churches are deviating from Bible-based sermons and not promoting daily Bible study among their congregants. Without the word of God as their foundation, feelings of despair and loneliness arise in the minds of both existing and new members when they encounter spiritual adversity. The absence of biblical teachings can create a false impression that serving God is an effortless journey free from hardships.

“Enter by the narrow gate; for wide is the gate and broad is the way that leads to destruction, and there are many who go in by it. Because narrow is the gate and difficult is the way which leads to life, there are few who find it.” —Matthew 7:13-14

The Path of Righteousness is narrow with godly standards which can only be achieved with the human effort of daily surrender and the Divine Strength of the Holy Spirit. Still, we are not acceptable as we are, we require spiritual makeovers to receive eternal life. Sanctification, the spiritual transformation of our hearts and characters into the likeness of Christ’s Character is a life-long process. Only the sufferings from spiritual adversity produce a righteous character.

“Beloved, do not think it strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened to you…” —1 Peter 4:12

Wait! So, as Christians, we are required to suffer throughout our earthly lives?

Spiritual Suffering is never for naught [it is not meaningless]. It always produces the spiritual transformation of our minds, characters, and personalities that are required to live eternally in the presence of a Holy and Righteous God.

And after you have suffered a little while, the God of all grace, who has called you to his eternal glory in Christ, will himself restore, confirm, strengthen, and establish you.” —1 Peter 5:12

Contrary to the human contrived theory of God crushing us like grapes, the Apostle Peter clarifies that every trial we suffer has an end-time that is determined by God. Our Heavenly Father never leaves us hopeless!

Reflection: What is your perception of having a relationship with Christ?

“Yet if anyone suffers as a Christian, let him not be ashamed, but let him glorify God in this matter. 19 Therefore let those who suffer according to the will of God commit their souls to Him in doing good, as to a faithful Creator.” —1 Peter 4:16, 19

We are modern disciples who follow in Christ’s earthly footsteps. Never be ashamed to suffer for the glory of God! It is a privilege to suffer for Christ. If God allowed Jesus who was sinless to suffer for humanity, then we must also be willing and endure our spiritual suffering.

“How is it to your credit if you are beaten for doing wrong and you endure it? But if you suffer for doing good and you endure it, this is commendable before God. For to this, you were called, because Christ also suffered for you, leaving you an example, that you should follow in His footsteps…” —1 Peter 2:20-21

“Father, if You are willing, take this cup from Me. Yet not My will, but Yours be done. Then an angel from heaven appeared to Him and strengthened Him.” —Luke 22:42-43

God did not forget that Jesus, His Son was human on this earth. God, the Father whose name is Love sent an angel to minister to Jesus in the Garden of Gethsemane. Our prayers for strength are answered immediately by the Holy Spirit. Never forget that God will dispatch a messenger angel to comfort us at any time of the day or night.

“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

We must maintain our faith and confidence in Jesus’ promise that He will never forsake us during adversity. If Jesus said He will give us peace then His word is steadfast—always reliable and never-changing!

Daily worship strengthens our faith and trust in God. From the diligent study of the Scriptures, we learn of humanity’s failures, Jesus’ earthly life, and the abiding love that He has for the human beings created in His image and whom He died for.

“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

We have biblical proof that God will bring us through every spiritual trial, tribulation, and adversity victoriously. And from our suffering, we gain a deeper relationship with Christ, a righteous character, spiritual insight, and our reward of eternal life.

“Blessed is the man who remains steadfast under trial, for when he has stood the test he will receive the crown of life, which God has promised to those who love him.” —James 1:12

Turn Your Eyes Upon Jesus begins with these lyrics, “O soul are you weary and troubled No light in the darkness you see…” Chorus: “Turn your eyes upon Jesus Look full in his wonderful face And the things of earth will grow strangely dim In the light of his glory and grace.”

Spiritual understanding and the willingness to stay on our Chosen Path which includes adversity produces spiritual growth and character transformation.

Prayer: Thank You, God, for preparing us in our earthly journey through much suffering so that we will be ready to receive our reward of eternal life when Jesus comes. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.

Witnessing to Others is An Essential Factor of Spiritual Growth

Witnessing to Others is An Essential Factor of Spiritual Growth Devotional Reading July 9, 2023

“In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven.” —Matthew 5:16

Reflection: What are we doing with our spiritual knowledge and spiritual gifts?

Sadly, we are distracted by the things of this earth. Many Christians never think about The Great Commission—Jesus’ command to Go and make disciples. Yet, every believer has received the Spiritual Assignment to tell others there is a Savior, Jesus Christ who loves them and died on the cross to redeem them from sin and its deadly consequences.

As employees, we are expected to excel in our job responsibilities, and our productivity usually results in merit raises. Similarly, as believers, we have a spiritual obligation to share our faith with others. While attending church services and giving offerings are Christian duties, they are not the actions that Jesus will reward us for when He returns. Every believer has received the assignment of witnessing to others which takes precedence over our earthly activities.

In 2021, I was in Walmart and feeling down due to a great disappointment. As I pushed the cart, deep into thought, a man passing me said, “God loves you, everything is going to be all right.” When we are in spiritual alignment with God, the Holy Spirit reveals our spiritual gifts which the Apostle Paul tells us are different for each person, but have one purpose and that is to tell others about Jesus.

Witnessing not only gives encouragement and hope to others, it also strengthens our relationship with Christ. We receive spiritual growth by sharing the Good News of Jesus Christ. Pray for the guidance of the Holy Spirit who will reveal creative ways to witness. A smile, asking, “How is your day going?” and letting someone ahead of you who realizes they need to turn left reveal the love of Christ in our hearts.

Remain prayerful! Ask the Holy Spirit to reveal the opportunities to witness. We may never know the impact of our small acts of kindness on others, yet, when we do our part, the Holy Spirit will intervene and continue the work on their receptive hearts. In addition, our hearts soften and are filled with Agape love, compassion, and kindness.

Last week, I was chatting with my neighbor who is 21 and will graduate from college next year. He mentioned that he desires to get married within a couple of years, but was discouraged because of the challenges of meeting someone loving, kind, and with good family values. My advice, when looking for a marriage partner, involve God by praying and asking Him to give you a good wife. God knows the person’s heart and He never makes mistakes. His response was, “Although, I am not religious that makes sense, thank you.”

We live in an age of technological advances and utilize cellular devices and computers every day. Statistics reveal that social media is one of our favorite activities. God has given us an advantage that missionaries never dreamed of—to communicate face-to-face without being in the same physical location. Every believer is a disciple and a missionary. We have a great work to do before Jesus’ Second Coming.

Jesus clarifies in Revelation that we will receive a reward according to our work. The Great Commission is our work. There is no greater work than to walk on the path that Jesus walked on in His earthly life—to minister to the spiritual needs of others.

“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 the Holy Spirit to reveal our spiritual gifts and how we can use them to witness to others. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.

The Path of Righteousness is Narrow