Holy Spirit – Steps 2 Success with Spiritual Solutions

Jesus Asks, “Do You Love Me?

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

After Jesus’ arrest, Peter aggressively denied knowing Jesus three times, and then the rooster crowed.

“And after an interval of about an hour still another insisted, saying, ‘Certainly this man also was with him, for he too is a Galilean.’ But Peter said, ‘Man, I do not know what you are talking about.’ And immediately, while he was still speaking, the rooster crowed. And the Lord turned and looked at Peter. And Peter remembered the saying of the Lord, how he had said to him, ‘Before the rooster crows today, you will deny me three times.’ 62 And he went out and wept bitterly.” (Luke 22:59-62, ESV).

We may ask, How is it possible for Peter to deny Christ after being in His presence and following Him for 3 years? Peter’s heart was unconverted, he attempted to serve and follow Jesus with a divided heart.

Although Peter thought his overwhelming desires for earthly prominence and wealth were hidden secrets, Peter was unaware that God, the Father gave Jesus the Divine Power to discern the real [secret] thoughts in people’s minds.

“Would not God discover this? For He knows the secrets of the heart.” (Psalm 44:21). Before God, who knows every human thought, habit, and behavior, we appear as naked babies.

Yes, God knows the dedicated believers who are striving to follow His Triumphant Son, Jesus Christ with daily surrender and faithful obedience; and God sees the unbelieving believers, who profess Christianity, but live to fulfill their personal agendas as wealth-builders, striving for elite social status, and the world’s wisdom [Artificial Intelligence].

The Reason It Is So Easy To Rebel Against God

“The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately sick; who can understand it? I the Lord search the heart and test the mind, to give every man according to his ways, according to the fruit of his deeds.” (Jeremiah 17:9-10, ESV).

“Our natural will is cold, hard, stubborn, and rebellious; The hard heart does not love Jesus, the Redeemer; The hard heart is selfish and coldly asks, Why should I [feel remorse] for sin? Why should I love the Lord?”

“And what do you benefit if you gain the whole world but lose your own soul? Is anything worth more than your soul?” (Matthew 16:26, NLT).

God never coerces us to love Him. If we choose to live as we please then we choose to deny Christ as our Lord and Savior. Not only will our rewards consist of whatever we have gained in our earthly lives, denying Christ is to accept Malachi 4:1 as our destiny.

The Plan of Redemption Reveals God’s Love, Grace, and Mercies and Also Includes Unlimited Forgiveness and Restoration

“For the Son of Man came to seek and to save the lost.” (Luke 19:10, ESV). Regardless of our present self-seeking status; we can decide to renounce the world’s treasures and pleasures; repent and return to the Shepherd; we do not have to remain as a lost sheep!

Steps To Spiritual Restoration: Love God

“You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and mind and with all your soul and with all your strength [your entire being].” (Deuteronomy 6:5, Amplified Bible).

In Matthew 22, Jesus repeats the command given in the Old Testament that we must love God with all of our heart, soul, mind, and strength, and the literal meaning: To love God is to think and live with a “God First” mindset.

Embracing Jesus’ Sacrificial Gift of His Life

“For God so loved the world, that He gave His only Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have eternal life. For God did not send His Son into the world to condemn the world, but in order that the world might be saved through Him.” (John 3:16-17, ESV).

The Message of The Cross reveals Jesus’ overwhelming love and commitment to save humanity: Jesus fulfilled The Plan of Redemption, dying for our sins, so we do not have to die [the second and final death] for our sins.

Confess and Repent For Our Sins Against God

“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).

To be accepted back into our Shepherd’s flock of sheep, we repent [asking for forgiveness with the commitment to strive to live holy]; and immediately, we are justified and covered with Christ’s Righteousness; and Jesus Christ presents us as being cleansed from all sins to God, the Father.

Sanctification is the lifetime work of the Holy Spirit changing our mind, character, personality into the likeness of Christ’s Righteous Character.

Sanctification requires the human effort of daily participation. We pray for God’s Will to be revealed, and our responses are faithful obedience along with renouncing our heart’s desires and Satan’s temptations.

“Do not be deceived: ‘Bad company corrupts good morals.'” (1 Corinthians 15:33, CSB). Our commitment to God and lifestyle must reflect that our hearts have been cleansed and transformed.

Spiritual Restoration requires letting go of all worldly people, habits, behaviors, and lifestyles. Study Romans 12:1-2 on how to live appropriately as a follower of Jesus Christ.

We are Temporary Travelers living on a Temporary Earth preparing every day for Jesus’ Coming. Live as if it is your last day. This is not a morbid thought, God has not promised us tomorrow.

“Wake up, sleeper, rise from the dead, and Christ will shine on you.” (Ephesians 5:14, NIV). We are living in the last days and we do not have the time that we think we have.

If we do not actively renounce sin, the Holy Spirit cannot change us; and the unrighteous character that we have today will be the same unrighteous character we have when Jesus comes.

Following Jesus Gives Us our Spiritual Identity

“But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God’s special possession, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light.” (1 Peter 2:9).

Society’s system of valuing people should not matter to us. As the righteous Sons and Daughters of God, who will inherit our Eternal Crown of Life, at all times, we must stay spiritually alert and prepared. Jesus tells us to separate ourselves from lawlessness.

The True Believers Worship God in Spirit and Truth

Daily surrender, faithful obedience, praying continuously for guidance and protection, studying the Bible, and letting go of our internal desires invites the Holy Spirit to empower us with Jesus’ Wisdom and Strength to discern and overcome every temptation that we face.

Jesus asks, “Do you love me?”

Then “Be very careful, then, how you live—not as unwise but as wise, making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil. Therefore do not be foolish, but understand what the Lord’s Will is.” (Ephesians 5:15 – 16, NIV).

Lord God, with humility and surrender, we approach your Throne of Grace, asking for the forgiveness of our sins. Lord, we ask You to restore us and to anoint us with Your Presence through the Power of the Holy Spirit. As we navigate through this tumultuous spiritual journey of life, we ask for Your Divine Guidance. Teach us how to keep our focus and faith on our Shepherd, Jesus Christ. Yes, Jesus, we love You; and we bow before You, Triumphant King asking You to lead us from Earth to Heaven. Lord, we also request for You to be our strength. In faith and with joyful anticipation of receiving Your blessings, we ask this prayer in the Loving and Righteous Name of Jesus Christ, Amen.

God Will Take Care of You – Great Is His Faithfulness!

“Through the Lord’s mercies we are not consumed, Because His compassions fail not.
They are new every morning; Great is Your faithfulness. ‘The Lord is my portion,’ says my soul, ‘Therefore I hope in Him!'” (Lamentations 3:22-23)

Although we have a tendency to focus on our desires and deficits, in our times of need, the believer’s faith is the catalyst that prevents doubt and worries. When we believe that God is Faithful, we implicitly trust Him.

When our faith is weak, we say, “God, will provide,” hoping that He will come through for us. But deep within our hearts, we are wondering how we are going to resolve our challenges.

Yet, for those who acknowledge that God sustains every aspect of our lives, with steadfast faith, we proclaim “Thank You, God for providing.” From reflecting on our past victories, we know that God is always faithful.

“The Lord is my portion,’ says my soul,
‘Therefore I hope in Him!’ The Lord is good to those who wait for Him, To the soul who seeks Him.'” (Lamentations 3:24-25).

In Matthew 6, Jesus promises to give us all of our provisions:

“Therefore do not worry, saying, ‘What shall we eat?’ or ‘What shall we drink?’ or ‘What shall we wear? For after all these things the Gentiles [unbelievers] seek. For your heavenly Father knows that you need all these things.” (Matthew 6:31-32).

“Look at the birds of the air, for they neither sow nor reap nor gather into barns; yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not of more value than they?” (Matthew 6:26).

When we remain safely in the arms of Jesus, He provides all of our daily basic needs. We receive His Love, Housing, Food, Water, and Clothing, and the money necessary to maintain optimal mental, emotional, and physical health.

Jesus created all things [John 1]; And He knows that our psychological and physiological status’ require a state of equilibrium [balance].

“Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about its own things. Sufficient for the day is its own trouble.” (Matthew 6:34).

Focusing on the blessing of the given day facilitates a spirit of gratitude; allows us to enjoy Jesus’ gift of internal peace; promotes the level of wellness required for spiritual growth; and keeps our focus and dependency on Jesus, required to build our faith.

“Now faith is confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see.” (Hebrews 11:1, NIV).

Our level of faith determines whether we will perceive our challenges and adversities as impossible, leaving us defeated, or knowing that with God, all things are possible. Yes and Amen.

“I have told you these things, so that in Me you may have [perfect] peace. In the world you have tribulation and distress and suffering, but be courageous [be confident, be undaunted, be filled with joy]; I have overcome the world.” (John 16:33, Amplified Bible).

Job loss is one of the trials that reveals [to us] the true status of our faith. God already knows whether or not, we really trust Him. The direction of faith [in God or ourselves] determines our first response to life-changing events.

The Believer Who Has Steadfast Faith in God

“Behold, I am Yahweh, the God of all flesh. Is there anything too hard for me?” (Jeremiah 32:27, BLB).

Although we feel disappointed, our first response is prayer: Lord, I thank You for my time on this job. In Matthew 6 and Hebrews 13:5, You promised to provide all of our needs, and I believe and trust in Your Promises. I ask You to give me guidance during this time. And I thank You in advance for Your blessings. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

The Believer Who Practices Self-Reliance

“Do not be wise in your own eyes.” (Proverbs 3:7).

From living a life of redirecting one’s faith and trust from God to self; the believer, who trusts in their thoughts and ways, perceives job loss as devastating. “What am I going to do?” is their First Response.

The Mind-Body Connection is powerful; and sympathizes with each other. Mentally, if we feel defeated and depressed then physically, our body responds.

“Thus says the Lord: ‘Cursed is the man who trusts in man and makes flesh his strength, whose heart turns away from the Lord.'” (Jeremiah 17:5).

The lack of faith and trust in God are the catalysts that produce “a psychosomatic physical illness or other condition) caused or aggravated by a mental factor such as internal conflict or stress, manifesting symptoms of a physical illness that does not exist.”

Redirecting Our Faith and Focus Back To God

“…Instead, think sensibly, as God has distributed a measure of faith to each one.” (Romans 12:3, CSB).

The journey from self-reliance to placing one’s faith and trust in God is a tough spiritual journey. Yet with repentance, we pray for strength and every day, strive to walk on the Narrow Path of following Christ.

“Blessed is the man who trusts in the LORD, And whose hope is the LORD.” (Jeremiah 17: 7).

Faith requires action! Even when the circumstances appear to be impossible, we decide to use our faith to believe and trust in God’s Love, Promises, and Power; If God said it, “It is done!”

Prayers of Gratitude are Faith-Builders!

When we redirect our faith and focus to Yahweh’s Love and Faithfulness, the Holy Spirit empowers us with the wisdom to see life through spiritual eyes. We begin to understand our spiritual purpose as Sons and Daughters of God

Our Response to God’s Goodness

“I will bless the Lord at all times; His praise shall continually be in my mouth My soul shall make its boast in the Lord; The humble shall hear of it and be glad. Oh, magnify the Lord with me, And let us exalt His name together.” (Psalm 34:1-3).

“Your steadfast love, O LORD, extends to the heavens, Your faithfulness to the clouds.” (Psalm 36:5, ESV).

The Message of The Cross reveals that God, the Father, and God, Jesus the Son loves us with an everlasting love.

Yes, God is always faithful in fulfilling His promises; yet our relationship with Christ is based on reciprocal love and faith.

Our Response To God’s Faithfulness

“Oh come, let us worship and bow down; Let us kneel before the Lord our Maker. For He is our God, And we are the people of His pasture, And the sheep of His hand.” (Psalm 95:6-7).

We demonstrate our love for Christ by following our Shepherd with daily surrender and faithful obedience, which is the highest form of worship, we can give to our Sovereign God.

“We love because He first loved us.” (1 John 4:19). To enjoy Christ’s Abundant Blessings and His Spiritual Gifts of Peace and Contentment, we commit to loving God with all of our heart, soul, mind, and strength.

“Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship.” (Romans 12:1, NIV).

A God First mindset is revealed by the willingness to trust and obey God’s Will and Plans for our lives, and live the same Sacrificial life of self-denial that Jesus lived.

God Proclaims His Sovereignty: “So shall My word be that goes forth from My mouth; It shall not return to Me void, But it shall accomplish what I please, And it shall prosper in the thing for which I sent it.” (Isaiah 55:11).

Facing The Opposition With Jesus’ Strength

The human mind is easily distracted by our environment of rapidly changing circumstances. Yet our stability is in God’s Promises, “I do not change.” [Malachi 3].

“There are always events happening in this world that Satan uses to steal our peace, joy, and happiness.”

Jesus’ Guidance: “If you abide in Me, and My words abide in you, you will ask what you desire, and it shall be done for you.” (John 15:7).

“Jesus uses the metaphor of the vine and the branches to teach about maintaining a close, life-giving, and continuous relationship with Him.”

Our Response To Jesus Saying, “Stay Close To Me: “Set your mind on things above, not on things on the earth.” (Colossians 3:2).

We establish and maintain a love relationship with Christ through daily personal worship: Pray continuously, Study the Holy Scriptures, and ask the Holy Spirit to guide you in every aspect of your life.

“You will keep him in perfect peace, Whose mind is stayed on You, Because he trusts in You.” (Isaiah 26:3).

Yes, we live in a world full of confusion and disorder, but as Sons and Daughters of God, we intentionally place our faith and focus on Jesus’ Promise, “I will never leave you or abandon you.”

“Set your mind on things above, not on things on the earth.” (Colossians 3:2). “Without faith it is impossible to please God…” And without faith, it is impossible for us to keep our focus on God.

Faith is the foundation of our relationship with Christ. Faith is the spiritual conduit that allows the Holy Spirit to give us a constant Spirit of Peace, despite the presenting circumstances.

“Peace I leave with you; My [perfect] peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you. Do not let your heart be troubled, nor let it be afraid. “[Let My perfect peace calm you in every circumstance and give you courage and strength for every challenge]. (John 14:27, Amplified Bible).

“What rest is to the body, Peace is to the mind! Jesus’ Peace, is the inner tranquility of the soul, that is undisturbed by external pressures.” Jesus, please give me Your Peace.

“Oh, taste and see that the Lord is good; Blessed is the man who trusts in Him!” (Psalm 34:8).

Lord God, we thank You for Your consistent Faithfulness. We thank You for loving us, so much that You desire to be involved in every aspect of our lives. We thank You for our spiritual gift of faith that we can use to totally depend on Your Goodness, believe in Your Promises to intervene, knowing, You will give us victory. Lord, we repent for using our faith to rely on our thoughts. As we face the uncertainties in this spiritual journey of life, we realize that we desperately need Your help and guidance. With gratitude and faith, we ask this prayer in the Loving and Righteous Name of Jesus Christ, Amen.

Daily Spiritual Goal: To Put Jesus First

“Now while they were on their way, Jesus entered a village [called Bethany], and a woman named Martha welcomed Him into her home.”

39 “She had a sister named Mary, who seated herself at the Lord’s feet and was continually listening to His teaching.”

40 “But Martha was very busy and distracted with all of her serving responsibilities; and she approached Him and said, ‘Lord, is it of no concern to You that my sister has left me to do the serving alone? Tell her to help me and do her part.'”

41 “But the Lord replied to her, ‘Martha, Martha, you are worried and bothered and anxious about so many things; but only one thing is necessary, for Mary has chosen the good part [that which is to her advantage], which will not be taken away from her.'” (Luke 10:38-42)

Every day, our daily routine reveals whether we are actively fulfilling the role of Martha, who always focused on the continuous busyness of life, or like Mary, our worship of Jesus Christ is first and foremost in our lives.

Are we taking the time to acknowledge and thank God for His Blessing of another day? God is the Sustainer of Life.

We have been blessed to receive the gift of 24 hours; yet, most of us do not even give God 60 minutes in the daily personal worship of Prayer and Bible Study.

One of Satan’s most effective deceptions is that we have the time to live as we please, and because God is merciful, all will be well. Yet, the prophet Jeremiah tells us that it is:

“Through the Lord’s mercies we are not consumed, Because His compassions fail not. They are new every morning; Great is Your faithfulness.” (Lamentations 3:23-24).

In Matthew 22:37-39, Jesus tells us that we must love the Lord our God with all of our heart, soul, mind and strength. When we fail to worship and obey God, we reveal an issue of the heart, we love ourselves more than God.

“Oh come, let us worship and bow down; Let us kneel before the Lord our Maker. For He is our God. And we are the people of His pasture, And the sheep of His hand.” (Psalm 95:6-7).

Loving God First is revealed as soon as we wake up to a new day. Our automatic response is to worship, and we joyfully speak a prayer of gratitude, singing praises that acknowledge the Lord’s gift of new Mercies.

“The Lord is good to those who wait for Him,
To the soul who seeks Him.” (Lamentations 3:25).

We revere God by making worship the first activity of our new day. Worship reveals our love and gratitude for God’s Abundant Blessings of His Steadfast Love, Faithfulness, Grace, Mercies, Provisions, Correction, and Protection.

By excluding God, we reveal that we value our human thoughts and strategies over God’s Sovereign Wisdom and Providence.

“See then that you walk circumspectly [carefully], not as fools but as wise, redeeming the time, because the days are evil. Therefore do not be unwise, but understand what the will of the Lord is.” (Ephesians 5:15-17).

Because we are living in the Last Days of Earth’s existence [Matthew 24; 2 Timothy 3], we do not have time to play the Game of Chance with our Life. Following Jesus Is All or Nothing, there is no middle ground.

“For you were once darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Walk as children of light (for the fruit of the Spirit is in all goodness, righteousness, and truth), finding out what is acceptable to the Lord.” (Ephesians 5:8-10).

Since we do not have the ability to predict the future outcomes of our decisions, we should renounce the habits of unbelievers, who trust human thoughts and their imaginings over God’s Divine Omniscience.

The same sacrificial life of self-denial that Jesus lived on this Earth is the same life that God, the Father requires us to live.

“Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship. Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—His good, pleasing and perfect will.” (Romans 12:1-2, NIV).

When we love God and appreciate Jesus’ Blood Sacrifice on Calvary’s Cross, we will joyfully give up every obstacle that prevents us having a heart to heart relationship with Jesus Christ.

We redeem the time by using our faith to actively participate in our Spiritual Journey. Cooperating with God, the Holy Spirit, Who performs the Spiritual Process of Sanctification, requires us to willingly surrender our will and plans to Jesus Christ

Sanctification is a spiritual process that can only occur in our earthly lives. The daily Spiritual Growth and Transformation of our heart, mind, and character from its inherited carnal desires into the Righteousness of Christ, prepares us for Eternal Life, but ceases when we take our last breath.

Do not believe Satan’s lie that we have the time to waste. Now is the time for us to follow our Shepherd with steadfast faith, obedience, determination.

“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).

Reflection: This morning, as I reflected on the ungrateful and selfish use of my time, I whispered a prayer of forgiveness for taking the gift of my life for granted.

The Message of The Cross reveals that Jesus has done all that He can for us: “But God shows His love for us in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us.” (Romans 5:8).

Following Christ requires the courage to renounce the personal habits that consume our time; saying No to the spiritual warfare of distractions, and most importantly, letting go of the people, who are interfering with our Love Relationship with Jesus Christ.

Our Triumphant King is Coming sooner than we think. We do not have time to think and live as Martha, because according to Jesus, only those with the habits of Mary will 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).

LORD God, with humility and surrender, we ask for forgiveness for wasting our merciful gift of time. We desire the wisdom and discernment to be intentional with our time, so we can always put You as First in our lives. Holy Spirit, transform our thoughts, words, and actions to reflect Christ’s Righteousness. We also pray for the Holy Spirit to reveal the habits and people, who are stumbling blocks, preventing our spiritual transformation in our journey with Jesus. LORD God, give us strength, as we follow Yeshua, our Savior, Shepherd, and Triumphant King on the Narrow Path of Righteousness. In faith, we ask and believe that we will receive these things in the Loving and Righteous Name of Jesus Christ, Amen.

Walking On The New Path of Total Surrender

“Whether you turn to the right or to the left, your ears will hear a voice behind you, saying, ‘This is the way; walk in it.'” (Isaiah 30:21, NIV).

When Jesus approached Matthew, the corrupt tax collector, Jesus extended the invitation: “Follow Me’ He told him, and Matthew got up and followed him…”

Matthew did not have to respond with spoken words; Jesus had the Divine Power to read what is in every human mind and heart, so He knew that Matthew was tired of his journey of walking down a dead end road.

Every day, Matthew heard the people in the marketplace telling others about Jesus’ Teachings of God’s Love for all people, regardless of their social or economic status.

Although Matthew had never personally listened to Jesus’ Teachings, as he sat at the tax collection table, the people constantly talked about a Powerful Man, named Jesus.

And this Jesus, who was from Nazareth healed lepers, opened blind eyes, gave hearing to the deaf, those who were unable to speak, talked, the crippled got up and walked, and He also have the power to cast out demons.

“Mark 7:36-37: Even though Jesus told them not to tell anyone, the people kept talking about it more and more, saying, ‘He does everything well. He even makes the deaf hear and the mute speak.'”

Yes, Jesus’ Love, Teachings, and His Ministry of Healing was known throughout Syria. “Yet, Dr. Luke records that when Jesus raised the widow’s son—His reputation of healing power spread throughout Judea and the surrounding country.”

The Truth is, Matthew knew that he was traveling on a wide path when he learned that Jesus taught one’s status, wealth, and material possessions were worthless in the kingdom of God.

Jesus refuted the Pharisees’ false doctrines that only wealthy individuals would enter heaven. Deep within his heart, Matthew realized that his lifestyle placed him on the broad road, leading to death and destruction.

“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).

Today, Jesus is asking you and me to stop giving Him the ritualistic worship of weekly church attendance, and to “Follow Him” with a commitment of total surrender and faithful obedience.

“But why do you call Me ‘Lord, Lord,’ and not do the things which I say?” (Luke 6:46).

We must be willing to stop nurturing our habits of self-reliance and disobedience against God; cease following our thoughts and strategies; and stop chasing our desires for this Earth’s temporary treasures, pleasures, and meaningless relationships.

“I the LORD search the heart and examine the mind, to reward each person according to their conduct, according to what their deeds deserve.” (Jeremiah 17:10, NIV). Jesus knows the true status of every human heart.

Who is sitting on the throne of our heart?

From reflecting on our thoughts, desires, habits, and lifestyle, the truth is revealed; without loving God, and honoring Him with daily surrender and faithful obedience, we are sitting on the throne of our heart.

For Jesus to sit on the throne of our hearts, the Apostle Paul tells us:

“Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship.”

2 “Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—His good, pleasing and perfect will.” (Romans 12:1-2, NIV).

To follow Jesus requires a spirit of humility and a lifelong commitment of daily surrender and obedience.

Through daily personal worship [Prayer, Studying and Obeying the Holy Scriptures], we abide in Christ. Asking for God’s Will to be done in our lives, reveals that we honor and reverence our King’s Sovereign Authority.

When we use our faith to implicitly trust and obey jesus, our Shepherd, the Holy Spirit leads us [day by day] on the Narrow Path of Righteousness.

God, the Holy Spirit is responsible for sanctifying and transforming our mind, character, and personality into the likeness of Christ’s Righteous and Divine Character.

When we cooperate with the Holy Spirit, our Teacher and Guide gives us knowledge, spiritual wisdom, discernment, and strength.

When tempted, it is the Holy Spirit who opens our eyes to recognize Satan’s covert temptations, and the Holy Spirit convicts our conscience if we try to hide secret sins.

“Love must be sincere. Hate what is evil; cling to what is good. Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord. Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer.”(Romans 12:9, 11-12, NIV).

Walking on the Narrow Path of Righteousness Requires the Human Effort of Total Surrender, Faithful Obedience, and The Divine Intervention of The Holy Spirit

Everyday, we will face the internal conflict of our hearts, driving us to pursue its desires and the external conflict of Satan’s continuous temptations.

“But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, [g]gentleness, self-control. Against such there is no law. And those who are Christ’s have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires.” (Galatians 5:22-24).

Although we practice self-control, our willpower can never keep us on the Path of Righteousness. We must walk through life on bended knees, asking the Holy Spirit several times a day to give us Divine Strength.

Following Jesus requires faith, courage, and the desire to live righteously. Prayer keeps us connected to Jesus, and we put on our armor, by studying the Scriptures, our Spiritual Sword.

Because of the Cross, we have Total Access to the Saving Power of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ: “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” (Philippians 4:13). Yes and Amen!

“Live in harmony with one another. Do not be proud, but be willing to associate with people of low position. Do not be conceited….”

“Do not repay anyone evil for evil. Be careful to do what is right in the eyes of everyone. If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone.” (Romans 12:16-18, NIV).

Lord, we come to You with our stubborn hearts and clenched hands of self-reliance. Yet, we have come to our spiritual senses. Jesus, we love You and desire to follow You. We ask You to forgive us for sitting on the throne of our heart, and excluding You from our lives, by only giving you recognition once a week.

Lord, we are willing to take the leap of faith to trust and obey You. And with trembling hands, we release our character deficits and burdens into Your Holy Hands. As we walk on this New Path of Total Surrender, we ask You to please be our Strength, and to anoint us with the Power and Presence of the Holy Spirit. In faith, we ask this prayer in Jesus’ Holy Name, Amen.

Why Are You Fearful? Receive Peace – Pray For God’s Guidance

“You will keep him in perfect peace, Whose mind is stayed on You, Because he trusts in You.” (Isaiah 26:3)

God is always faithful! His never-changing and comforting promise of continuous peace is revealed only in the lives of those who anchor their faith in Jesus Christ, The Rock.

“You will keep him in perfect peace” is also a reward: “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. Not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid.” (John 14:27).

“The Hebrew word for peace here is Shalom, that does not imply an absence of trouble, but a [spiritual state] of absolute completeness in Christ, which produces wholeness, and an unshakable well-being.”

“Make me to know your ways, O Lord; teach me your paths.” (Psalm 25:4, ESV).

From praying and not relying on risky human thoughts and strategies, instead of facing unknown outcomes and consequences, we receive the blessings of God’s guidance, peace, and contentment.

Always trust God! Whether we are facing life’s toughest challenges, or daily routine obstacles, if we use our faith to pray, ask for Help, believing in God’s Power, He will give us victorious outcomes. Yes and Amen!

Consistent prayer gives us direct access to God’s Plans, Thoughts, and Directions. Consistent prayer also prevents thoughts of uncertainty, anxiety, and worry, which disrupts our gift of Jesus’ Perfect Peace.

“A man’s mind plans his way [as he journeys through life], But the Lord directs his steps and establishes them.” (Proverbs 16:9, Amplified Bible).

Praying for God’s Guidance, waiting for His answer, and obeying His directives reveals our love, loyalty, and the willingness to follow our Shepherd, Jesus Christ, who deserves our commitment of total faith and trust.

True Sanctification requires every believer to have the mindset of Christ, and to live as He lived: A Faithful, Humble, and Obedient Life.

Jesus proclaimed: “And He who sent Me is [always] with Me; He has not left Me alone, because I always do what pleases Him.” (John 8:29, Amplified Bible).

Jesus’ Peace and Eternal Life are rewards for the righteous, who abide in Jesus by following Him on the Narrow Path of Righteousness.

Living a life of self-denial means that we control our emotions and desires. We live a quiet, spiritually disciplined life by keeping our focus on Jesus’ Promises in John 14:1-3 and Revelation 22:12.

When we perceive ourselves as the Redeemed Sons and Daughters of God, and the Righteous Heirs of Jesus’ Eternal Kingdom, we easily acknowledge and worship our Triumphant King with total surrender and obedience.

“Not everyone who says to Me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ will enter the kingdom of heaven, but only the one who does the will of my Father who is in Heaven.” (Matthew 7:21).

Those who proclaim to be Christians, but exclude Christ by following their own thoughts and strategies, possess hearts that are unconverted and filled with self-love and self-reliance.

“Thus says the LORD, ‘Cursed is the man who trusts in and relies on mankind, Making [weak, faulty human] flesh his strength, And whose mind and heart turn away from the LORD.'” (Jeremiah 17:5, Amplified Bible).

The warning is strong, but disobedience is rebellion, which separates us from God, for which there is no Heavenly reward.

“LORD, I know that people’s lives are not their own; it is not for them to direct their steps.” (Jeremiah 10:23). With humility, the Prophet Jeremiah acknowledges God’s Sovereign Authority over humanity.

We acquiesce to God’s Sovereign Authority, not from fear [fear in the Scriptures means reverence], but because we love Him.

Total surrender and obedience reveals our appreciation and gratitude for our life-saving gift of Jesus redeeming and saving us from the penalty of the second and final death. [Malachi 4].

“My sheep hear My voice, and I know them, and they follow Me.” (John 10:27).

God’s Divine Guidance and Protection are limited to those who follow Jesus Christ, their Shepherd with unwavering faith and obedience.

The Bible, Our Spiritual Treasure Map, Reveals God’s Higher Thoughts and Ways

“For the word of God is living and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the division of soul and spirit, and of joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart.” (Hebrews 4:12).

The Bible is Spiritually All-Inclusive. Asking for wisdom and discernment invites the Holy Spirit to empower us with the deepest understanding of God’s Love, Grace, and His One and Only Abiding Truth!

Ask for Strength: “…in all these things we are more than conquerors through Him who loved us.” The Holy Spirit also gives us Jesus’ Divine Strength to pursue holiness, keeping us on the Narrow Path that leads to Eternal Life.

“All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, equipped for every good work.” (2 Timothy 3:16-17).

Consistent Bible Study reveals our willingness to surrender to Jesus’ Authority as our Sovereign Ruler, and acknowledges our need to be taught by God.

From Genesis to Revelation God reveals His Loving Character, Divine Thoughts and Higher Ways. Yes, God is a Loving Heavenly Father, but we must also remember, God is also the Righteous Judge of humanity.

God warns us, “I do not change!” The Holy Scriptures provide absolute proof of God’s expectations: The righteous must serve Him with faithful obedience.

“If you love Me keep my Commandments.” (John 14:15). We were created with a free will choice. God never coerces us to surrender, pray, or obey His guidance.

But when our hearts are truly converted, it is not a burden to obey our Loving Shepherd. Following Jesus is the best decision, we will ever make!

From studying the Bible, we find that righteous believers always honored and revered God with steadfast faith: There was never any doubt or question in their mind that serving and honoring God required faith, trust, and obedience.

King David: “Show me Your ways, O LORD; teach me Your paths. Guide me in Your truth and teach me, for You are the God of my salvation; all day long I wait for You.” (Psalm 25:4-5).

Job: “Yet He knows the way I have taken; when He has tested me, I will come forth as gold. My feet have followed in His tracks; I have kept His way without turning aside. I have not departed from the command of His lips; I have treasured the words of His mouth more than my daily bread.” (Job 23:10-14).

From aligning ourselves with God’s Will and Plans, Jesus promises: “Therefore I tell you, whatever you ask in prayer, believe that you have received it, and it will be yours.” (Mark 11:24).

Jesus’ Promise refers to praying and making requests that lead to spiritual growth and transformation. We need Spiritual wisdom, discernment, patience, contentment, and the Holy Spirit’s guidance to receive our Crown of Life.

From abiding in Christ, the Holy Spirit empowers us to live a consecrated life of Holiness. Surrender, Self-Denial, and Faithful Obedience, which are the characteristics of those who follow Jesus, distinguishing Jesus’ Loyal Sheep from the pretenders.

Yes, in our earthly lives, we can expect to suffer adversity (John 16:33); but the righteous can rejoice! Jesus has promised to give us His Spiritual Gifts of Strength, Joy, Happiness, and Peace, and to lead us from Earth to Heaven.

Brothers and Sisters in Christ, Hold On To Jesus!

“For, ‘In just a little while, He who is coming will come and will not delay.'” (Hebrews 10:37, BSB).

Following Jesus Christ requires walking through life on bended knees, living a life of self-denial, and praying continuously [with steadfast faith and courage] for Divine Guidance.

God, the Father, and God, the Son honors and rewards their faithful and loyal sons and daughters with all of our necessities, and at times, fulfills a few of our desires. Why? There is no need for us to get attached to this Earth’s money and material possessions.

Soon, King Jesus’ Gift of Eternity will come to fruition: “To him who overcomes I will grant to sit with Me on My throne, as I also overcame and sat down with My Father on His throne.” (Revelation 3:21). Yes and Amen!

We are Temporary Travelers Living on a Temporary Earth, who are preparing for the Greatest Event this world will ever witness:

“Now I saw heaven opened, and behold, a white horse. And He who sat on him was called Faithful and True, and in Righteousness He judges and makes war. And He has on His robe and on His thigh a name written:

KING OF KINGS AND LORD OF LORDS.” (Revelation 19:11, 16).

Prayer: “The Lord bless you and keep you; the Lord make His face to shine upon you and be gracious to you; the Lord lift up His countenance upon you and give you peace.” (Number 6:24- 26). Amen.

God Is the Definition of Love

“We love because He first loved us.” (1 John 4:19)

John 3:16 and John 14:1-3 reveal God, The Father’s Love, and God, Jesus the Son’s Love and Faithfulness to humanity.

“And walk in love, as Christ loved us and gave Himself up for us, a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God.” (Ephesians 5:2).

Knowing without a doubt, that you are loved by God invites the Holy Spirit to connect your heart to Jesus’ Heart, which builds a Love Relationship with our Shepherd, Who reinforces and anchors our identity and self-worth in Himself.

Lord God, we thank You for your Abiding Love, Faithfulness, and the willingness to help us in our times of need. We ask You to teach us how to love as described in 1 Corinthians 13. Lord, we also pray for the spiritual blessings of restoration, renewal, wisdom, and strength, as we celebrate the Holy Sabbath along with the heavenly angels. We look forward to the day when we will spend Eternity with You, worshiping face to face with Christ every Sabbath. Until Jesus’ Second Coming, we will continue to faithfully obey Your Commandments, celebrating Your Love for us through daily praise and worship. Your Holy Name. In faith, and with total surrender, we ask this prayer in the Loving and Righteous Name of our Triumphant King, Jesus Christ, Amen.

The LORD Is Good – He Always Protects the Righteous – Sabbath Peace and Blessings

Recently, I read that when Satan forms weapons to use against us, whether he is using people to hurt us, damage our reputation, or deceive us with covert temptations, if our First Response is to remain silent and pray, Jesus, our Mighty Warrior fights our battles. And we know that Jesus always wins! Yes and Amen!

Always Trust God, who tells us: “No weapon formed against you will prosper.” (Isaiah 54:17).

“God promises us His Divine protection, assuring believers that Satan’s attacks will not succeed because God [always] vindicates His faithful servants.”

“This promise is a pledge for the safety of God’s people to mean that no plan of the enemy will succeed against those in a covenant relationship with Jesus Christ.”

Lord God, we thank You for Your promises to protect us from spiritual warfare and all mental, emotional, and physical danger. Lord, help us to have a heart filled with humility and surrender, so that our first response is to call on Your Sovereign Name for help, when we are facing adversity. We pray for the strength not to react with our emotions when facing conflict and opposition. This Holy Sabbath, we ask You for the Spiritual Blessings of increased faith, wisdom, and discernment. In faith, we ask this prayer in the Righteous Name of Jesus Christ, Amen.

The Believer’s Identity: We Are Sons and Daughters, Heirs of The Living God

“And God said, Let us make man in our image, according to our likeness…” (Genesis 1:26). This conversation between God, the Father, and God, Jesus, His Son, reveals the Christian believer’s identity.

In John chapter 17, Jesus prays for Himself, His twelve disciples, and His future disciples, which included everyone who accepts Christ as their personal Savior.

“As Jesus went on from there, He saw a man called Matthew, sitting in the tax collector’s booth; and He said to him, ‘Follow Me!’ And he got up and followed Him.” (Matthew 9:9, NASB).

Matthew’s silence and his decision to abandon his corrupt job and lifestyle revealed that deep within his heart, he desired to give up sinful habits and follow Jesus Christ on an unknown spiritual journey.

Reflection: Do we perceive ourselves as committed disciples who desire to follow Christ with love, loyalty, and obedience?”

“Do you not know that you are the temple of God, and that the Spirit of God lives in you?” (1 Corinthians 3:16). Yet for the Holy Spirit to live in us, we must fulfill God’s Spiritual Qualifier: “Be holy, for I AM Holy.” (1 Peter 1:16). How does holiness affect the minds and lives of true believers?

Can you imagine being invited to an event requiring formal evening wear, only to hear in the closing remarks an invitation to play volleyball in your finest clothing? As absurd as this sounds, many believers accept Christ as their personal Savior, but engage in the world’s sinful, filthy habits.

“Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God.” (Matthew 5:8). To be clothed with Christ’s Righteousness, we must renounce sinful thoughts, habits, behaviors, and spoken words, and live a Christ-centered, Faith-based life of daily surrender and obedience.

Since we cannot live holy without Divine Power, through daily personal worship, we establish a heart-to-heart relationship with Jesus Christ, and the Holy Spirit begins the lifelong process of Spiritual growth and transformation. “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” (Philippians 4:13).

Every day, our priority is to renew our spiritual commitment to follow Christ, which connects us to our Shepherd and reinforces our status as Sons and Daughters of God. We ask God to reveal His plans for the new day, and the Holy Spirit instructs and gives us guidance on fulfilling God’s Will.

Yes, God knows that we have jobs and the routine duties of life to take care of, yet we are commanded to put God first. Time Management is God’s Specialty. With His guidance, we can accomplish our daily tasks and still have time and energy to fulfill our spiritual assignments.

The Challenge of Remaining Faithful and Obedient to God, Our Father

“But why do you call Me ‘Lord, Lord,’ and not do the things which I say?” (Luke 6:46). As Sons and Daughters of God, we have a spiritual requirement to always obey God. We honor God’s Sovereign Authority through faithful obedience because He is God, our Father, who loves us, and we love Him because we are His heirs.

“LORD, I know that people’s lives are not their own; it is not for them to direct their steps.” (Jeremiah 10:23, NIV). Always pray for Divine guidance before making decisions. Although the challenge can appear insignificant, following our thoughts and solutions is disobedience to God, “I say, ‘My purpose will stand.'” (Isaiah 46:10).

When we love and honor God, how can we justify playing the Game of Chance by trying to resolve our challenges, which can result in escalation and consequences that we can avoid by asking God for the answers?

“For as the heavens are higher than the earth, So are My ways higher than your ways, And My thoughts than your thoughts.” (Isaiah 55:9). God is always faithful! Each new day brings unknown obstacles, temptations, and dangers that only our Protective Heavenly Father knows and can resolve.

Pray, Wait for God’s Answer, and Obey: Dependency on God is not a burden when we desire to follow Christ with love, loyalty, and faithful obedience. Obedience is the worship that keeps us aligned with God’s Will because God’s Intervention always ends in Victory!

“Be alert and of sober mind. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour.” (1 Peter 5:8, NIV). Without Christ, we are no match for Satan. Praying for Spiritual Guidance keeps us aligned with God’s plans and invites Jesus, our Mighty Warrior, to send angels to intervene when we face daily unknown obstacles, temptations, and dangers.

“See what great love the Father has lavished on us, that we should be called children of God! And that is what we are!” (1 John 3:1, NIV).

As children of God, we maintain our spiritual connection with Christ through Prayer and Bible Study. Every day, we pray for God’s Will to be revealed, relying on the Holy Spirit to instruct us in our Heavenly Father’s plans for each new day.

In John chapter 10, Jesus tells a parable of the loving and tender relationship between a shepherd and his sheep: “My sheep hear My voice, and I know them, and they follow Me.” (John 10:27). “But they will never follow a stranger; in fact, they will run away from him because they do not recognize a stranger’s voice.” (John 10:5, NIV).

Not only are we bombarded by the world’s voices, promising that if we follow their suggestions, our lives will improve and we will live peaceful and contented lives, but we must also fight against thinking our own thoughts [Proverbs 3:5-7] and Satan’s temptations.

Let go of self-reliance! To avoid embracing Satan’s schemes, we must do as Jesus did in His earthly life; Jesus prayed continuously. Whisper prayers at work and throughout the day and night. Always pray for Spiritual Wisdom and Discernment, and the Holy Spirit will empower you with spiritual insight and guide your steps.

Loving God and Following Christ With Surrender Is A Daily Choice

In Matthew 22:37, Jesus reiterates the command given in the Old Testament to love God with immense love: “And you shall love the LORD your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength.” (Deuteronomy 6:5).

When we love God with our all, we will not hesitate to pray and obey our Heavenly Father, who loves us and desires to give us our best lives, including the reward of Eternal Life. Yet, we were created with free will, and we must choose to obey God, which reveals the true condition of our hearts.

Many believers have their own agendas, plans, and goals, never considering that we must love and obey God by following Christ, our Shepherd. Sadly, if we refuse to surrender, then we have chosen to disinherit ourselves as Sons and Daughters of God, for which there is no reward, except the life we are living now.

“I the Lord search the heart and test the mind.” (Jeremiah 17:9, ESV). “For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” (Matthew 6:21, ESV). Since it is impossible to hide secrets from God, He knows who genuinely loves Him and desires to surrender and obey His Will and Perfect Plans.

“Jesus answered, ‘I am the Way and the Truth and the Life. No one comes to the Father except through me.'” (John 14:6, NIV). When we love God, we strive to follow our Shepherd, Jesus Christ, with faithful obedience. Jesus tells us that He is the Living Water and the Bread of Life, and that we should seek Him daily through Prayer and Bible Study.

“We love Him because He first loved us.” (1 John 4:19). As Sons and Daughters of God, accepting our spiritual identity is the catalyst for making definitive changes. We no longer participate in worldly habits and behaviors, and our thoughts and spoken words reveal God’s Love.

Using our faith to trust and obey our Heavenly Father, we cooperate with the Holy Spirit, who performs the lifelong, daily spiritual process of Sanctification—Spiritual growth and transformation into the Righteousness of Christ.

By studying the Holy Scriptures, we learn Christ’s Character and how to live righteously. Prayer invites God, the Holy Spirit, who is the Spirit of Truth and our Teacher, to give us spiritual wisdom and discernment of God’s One and Only Truth, instructs us on how to recognize Jesus’ Guiding Voice, and empowers us to stay on the Narrow Path of Righteousness.

God Speaks With a Quiet and Peaceful Voice: The Holy Spirit conveys God’s messages through our thoughts and the Holy Scriptures. God meets us where we are spiritually; His instructions are clear and concise, so that even a child can understand.

John 16:13: “When the Spirit of Truth comes, He will guide you into all the truth…” (The Holy Spirit reveals truth and direction). We recognize the difference between human thoughts and God’s higher thoughts and ways, because His instructions always glorify and honor His Holy Name.

From eliminating distractions and putting God First, we will see ourselves through spiritual eyes as Sons and Daughters of the Most-High God. Jesus, our Savior and Triumphant King, is preparing us [through the Holy Spirit] to receive the Eternal Reward of our Forever Home in the New Heaven and New Earth with Abba, God, our Father, and Jesus, our Triumphant King. Hallelujah! Yes and Amen!

“I say then: Walk in the Spirit, and you shall not fulfill the lust of the flesh…those who practice such things will not inherit the kingdom of God. But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control. Against such there is no law. And those who are Christ’s have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires. If we live in the Spirit, let us also walk in the Spirit.” (Galatians 5:16, 21-25).

Lord God, with surrender, we acknowledge that we are the temple of the Living God, in which the Holy Spirit resides. Today, we accept our identity as Your Sons and Daughters, with the commitment to strive every day for righteousness by not embracing the darkness of worldviews or following the path of self-gratification. Lord, it is only through your strength that we can remain faithful, and today, we ask for Your Strength. In faith, we ask this prayer in the Powerful Name of Jesus Christ, Amen.

Need Results? Pray Like Jesus Prayed

“Very early in the morning, while it was still dark, Jesus got up, left the house and went off to a solitary place, where He prayed.” (Mark 1:35, NIV).

Jesus Christ, born as a human baby, was still the Divine Son of God. Yet born in human flesh, Christ did not have the infinite knowledge or power He had in Heaven before coming to this Earth as a human being.

The Incarnation (John 1:14): “‘The Word became flesh and dwelt among us,” affirms God taking on human form. Made Like Brothers (Hebrews 2:17): He was made ‘like His brothers in every respect’ to understand and go through the human experience.” Jesus willingly depended on God, His Father, through continuous prayer.

Jesus is our perfect example in how to make prayer a priority: “But Jesus often withdrew to lonely places and prayed.” (Luke 5:16). Jesus always relied on God, the Father, for the guidance, wisdom, and strength to withstand the harsh vicissitudes of His earthly life.

“My help comes from the Lord, who made heaven and earth.” (Psalm 121:2, ESV). We were not created to figure out how to live righteously or to resolve life’s challenges, even the smallest obstacles.

God’s Love and Commitment to Care For the Righteous Never Change

Although sin brought eventual death to every living creation, Jesus never left Adam and Eve alone. Through the sacrificial system and their individual prayers, Adam and Eve had the privilege of worshiping God and connecting to Jesus Christ for help, guidance, and encouragement without restrictions.

“God is our refuge and strength, A very present help in trouble. Therefore we will not fear…” (Psalm 46:1-2). For over 6,000 years, the Bible provides us with historical accounts of Jesus Christ, our Heavenly Intercessor, receiving and answering humanity’s prayers when they asked for God’s Help.

What is the spiritual purpose of prayer?

“Prayer is the ‘opening of the heart to God as to a friend,’ designed to bridge the gap between human frailty and Divine Strength…”

“No one comes to the Father except through me.” (John 14:6). Prayer is Powerful! Prayer connects us to Jesus, our Intercessor and Mediator, who covers us with His Righteousness and represents us before God, the Father, as His redeemed.

Prayer invites the Holy Spirit to give us clarity, wisdom, strength, and peace. We ask for help, and the Holy Spirit instructs, guides, and keeps us on the Narrow Path of Righteousness.

“Abide in me, and I in you… for apart from me you can do nothing.” (John 15:4-5). “Spiritual dependence [is] a continuous, relational connection with Jesus, and is necessary for producing righteous fruit.” [Galatians 5:22-23].

Jesus’ Life of Prayer and Worship: “Jesus got up, left the house and went off to a solitary place, where He prayed.” Every day, the Son of God separated Himself from His disciples to pray and worship God, indicating that His relationship with God, the Father, was His utmost priority.

Jesus’ intentional habit of communicating with God through prayer reveals to every believer that continuous prayer is necessary to keep us spiritually connected to God, the Source of All Life.

Having The Spirit of Christ

The Spirit of Humility: A spirit of humility demonstrates our desire to follow Christ with faithful obedience; only then can we be guided by the Holy Spirit and experience daily spiritual growth.

Acknowledging That We Need Divine Help: Divine Intervention and Human Effort are required for us to follow Christ. Our daily prayer of surrender: Lord, please reveal Your plans for my life today. Always Pray, Wait, and Obey.

Without faithful obedience, we cannot mature spiritually or live righteously. Yes, we can stop habits, but Behavior Modification is not the Holy Spirit’s work of the heart and character transformation of Sanctification, which occurs day by day from the time we accept Christ until we take our last breath.

The Commitment to Be a Prayer Warrior

“Pray without ceasing, Continue steadfastly in prayer, being watchful in it with thanksgiving [gratitude].” (1 Thessalonians 5:17; Colossians 4:2). A life dedicated to prayer invites the Holy Spirit to teach us how to live righteously and empower us with the spiritual wisdom to perceive life through spiritual eyes.

Prayer Establishes and Maintains Our Connection to Jesus Christ: “But he who is joined to the Lord is one spirit with Him.” (1 Corinthians 6:17). “This Scripture highlights the deep spiritual union and oneness between a believer and Jesus Christ.”

Prayer is an act of surrender, acknowledging that we cannot obey God’s Commands and Precepts without being joined to Christ and being empowered daily by the Holy Spirit.

“And we know that God works all things together for the good of those who love Him, who are called according to His purpose.” (Romans 8:28).

Yes, we can easily complete daily tasks using our strength, but without a faith-based spiritual connection to Jesus Christ, our hearts will drive us to fulfill every desire, which opposes God’s Will, resulting in living a life of disobedience and the loss of God’s blessings.

Prayer Acknowledges That Our Existence Is Through Jesus: “For in Him we live and move and exist…’ We are His offspring.'” (Acts 17:28, NLT). Our Salvation and Eternal Life are dependent on establishing and maintaining a personal relationship with Christ. As Jesus’ followers, we must walk through life on bended knees.

Prayer Is Worship and Worship Is a Lifestyle: To remain connected to Jesus, we must have the desire to be in God’s Holy Presence and to make the necessary changes to put God first.

The Spiritual Atmosphere for Effectual Prayer: Separation, Solitude, and Silence are needed for the Holy Spirit to lift us up into the presence of God. The Holy Spirit also teaches us God’s One and Only Truth and empowers us to carry out His plans for the day.

The Habits of Prayer Warriors: Separation, Solitude, Silence, and Time Management: Private worship should be conducted at least twice a day. Jesus gives us the spiritual protocol for being in God’s Holy Presence:

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

To maintain our connection with Christ, always prioritize personal worship. Eliminating distractions includes saying no to constant interruptions that redirect our focus away from God to the things of this world. Our goals: To receive God’s instructions and to understand the deepest meaning of the Holy Scriptures.

Time Management Is Crucial: We take back the control of our time by designating set times for personal worship. Worship [Prayer, Bible Study, Religious Music, and Singing] should be our first and last activities of each new day.

Daily Worship Keeps Us Spiritually Aware! “Stay alert! Watch out for your great enemy, the devil. He prowls around like a roaring lion, looking for someone to devour.” (1 Peter 5:8, NLT).

Because we are Satan’s targets, whispering prayers silently throughout our day is a necessity. At noon, pray and ask for the Holy Spirit’s guidance, the wisdom to complete challenging work or educational assignments, and the discernment and strength to recognize and overcome temptation.

Living righteously is the toughest assignment that we must complete to receive our reward of Eternal Life. Our earthly journey must be one of prayer and total dependency on God’s wisdom and plans. “I can do all things through Christ, who gives me strength.” (Philippians 4:13).

Living As Victorious Prayer Warriors – Always Pray, Obey, and Wait On God

Jesus proclaims His Faithful Obedience: “And He who sent Me is with Me. The Father has not left Me alone, for I always do those things that please Him.” (John 8:29).

God’s Warning: “Do not be wise in your own eyes.” (Proverbs 3:7). Decision-making is a continuous responsibility. Whether facing a routine challenge or life-threatening adversity, always pray, asking for Divine Guidance, patiently waiting for God’s answer before making decisions.

Faithful believers should never experience unwanted surprises and life-changing disappointments. Only God knows the future; we can never guarantee the outcome of a decision. The solution we believed would ensure a positive outcome could lead to unforeseen negative consequences.

By including God in every aspect of life, we can live as faithful and victorious prayer warriors! Yes and Amen!

“Casting all your cares [all your anxieties, all your worries, and all your concerns, once and for all] on Him, for He cares about you” [with deepest affection, and watches over you very carefully]. (1 Peter 5:7, Amplified Bible).

Lord God, with humility, we approach the Throne of Grace because we need You in every aspect of our lives. Jesus, we thank You for Your love, faithfulness, and continuous intervention. Thank You for rescuing and protecting us from the consequences that we never realized could happen. In faith, we surrender to Your Sovereignty, dedicating ourselves to live as faithful prayer warriors, depending on Your perfect will and plans. In Jesus’ Righteous Name, Amen.

He Arose! Yeshua’s Power Over Death

“Therefore My Father loves Me, because I lay down My life that I may take it again. No one takes it from me, but I lay it down of my own accord. I have the authority to lay it down and the authority to take it up again. This command I received from my Father.” (John 10:18, NKJV; NIV)

“For as the Father has life in Himself, so He has granted the Son to have life in Himself…” (John 5:26). Contrary to the false doctrine that has permeated Christianity, human beings did not kill Jesus, the Divine Son of God. The creation cannot kill the Creator. Yes and Amen!

“So when Jesus had received the [vinegar], He said, ‘It is finished!” And bowing His head, He gave up His spirit.'” (John 19:30).

The “spirit” is the breath of life that Jesus breathed into Adam: “Then the LORD God formed a man from the dust of the ground and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life, and the man became a living being.” (Genesis 2:7).

“Formation (The Physical): God used the dust of the ground (adamah), emphasizing humanity’s physical, earthy origin.”
“Breath (The Spiritual): God breathed directly into the man, representing a direct impartation of life and spirit (Ruach) from God.”

As a student, I studied Greek Mythology, and it is the Greek belief that a separate ghost-like spirit exists in the human body:

“Ancient Greek mythology and popular belief heavily featured spirits, known as eidola or phasmata (shadows or shades).”

“These were considered the lingering souls of the deceased, separate from the gods, which appeared when someone died improperly, prematurely, or violently, often seeking rest or vengeance.” Greek Mythology

“For the living know that they will die, but the dead know nothing; they have no further reward, and even their name is forgotten…never again will they have a part in anything that happens under the sun.” (Ecclesiastes 9:5-6, NIV).

From using our faith to surrender to God, the Holy Spirit teaches us God’s One and Only Truth contained in the Holy Scriptures: “Then shall the dust return to the earth as it was: and the spirit shall return unto God who gave it” (Ecclesiastes 12:7, KJV).

In His earthly ministry, Jesus Gives Definitive Proof of His Divine status as the Son of God: “I Am the Resurrection and the Life.”

Jesus Raises Lazarus: [John 11:17-18, 23-27]

“So when Jesus came, He found that he had already been in the tomb four days. Now Bethany was near Jerusalem, about two miles away.” (Verses 17-18)

23 “Jesus said to her, ‘Your brother will rise again.'”

24 “Martha said to Him, ‘I know that he will rise again in the resurrection at the last day.'”

25 “Jesus said to her, ‘I am the resurrection and the life. He who believes in Me, though he may die, he shall live. 26 And whoever lives and believes in Me shall never die. Do you believe this?'”

27 “She said to Him, ‘Yes, Lord, I believe that You are the Christ, the Son of God, who is to come into the world.'”

Reflection: Do we really believe that Jesus is who He says He is? “I am the Resurrection and the Life.” Our religious beliefs reveal whether we have placed our faith and trust in Jesus Christ, who is God the Son.

Jesus sent the Holy Spirit, the Spirit of Truth, and our Teacher to give us the spiritual discernment to understand God’s higher thoughts and ways revealed in the Scriptures. Our heavenly destiny relies on knowing and practicing God’s Truth.

“For the Father judges no one, but has committed all judgment to the Son, that all should honor the Son just as they honor the Father. He who does not honor the Son does not honor the Father who sent Him.” (John 5:22-23).

Yeshua will judge every believer by the Words of the Living God found in the Holy Scriptures. We must study the Bible for ourselves under the guidance of the Holy Spirit. Do not let human wisdom persuade you to believe erroneous concepts that are not found in the Holy Bible.

True Followers of Christ surrender to Him daily through the commitment of personal worship. Prayer, Bible Study, and Praising God with singing reveal our true love and dedication to our Savior, Redeemer, and Triumphant King.

Up From the Grave He Arose Lyrics

“Up from the grave He arose With a mighty triumph o’er His foes, He arose a Victor from the dark domain And He lives forever with His saints to reign He arose! (He arose) He arose! (He arose) Hallelujah! Christ arose!” Songwriter: Robert Lowry

Bible Study: John Chapters 10-11

Lord God, we praise Your Holy Name for Your love and the gift of Your Precious and Holy Son, Jesus Christ, who redeems us from our sins. We celebrate the Divine Gift of Your Love, Life, and Salvation, not because of a designated Holy Week; Jesus, with gratitude, we celebrate You every day. Thank You for the gift of Your Life, allowing us to be saved from the sin’s devastating consequences. We love, revere, and praise your Holy Name. Thank you, Jesus, for Your Life and Your Love, and ask this prayer in Your Righteous and Holy Name, Amen.