Tag: Living by Faith

Too Much Stuff

Devotional–Too Much Stuff from The Struggle of Sanctification by Sonya Johnson

Last month, I decided that a couple of changes were needed to simplify my life. And after thinking for too long, I decided that I would declutter. What else did I need to get rid of? I did the Big Chop when I relocated to Florida. I am not a hoarder, but realized that I could never go to the extreme–is minimalism a learned behavior?

The battle of the mind started when I opened my closet, dressers, and cabinets. As I looked at my possessions, an internal war raged because everything I own is affectionately loved. No, I am not sentimental. The things that make my home cozy and my bohemian clothing were not impulsive purchases. I fell in love with every eclectic thing that I own while looking at them in the store.

Although my possessions would be of little monetary value to others, they were hand-picked and remain priceless to me. As a tsunami wave of sorrow passed through my mind, body, and soul, I decided to close the closet door and the kitchen cabinets. I did not have too much stuff. 95% of the items I own are for practical use. Yet, I knew that something was wrong. My mind was constantly working overtime.

“A large part of our brain is devoted to processing the sensory inputs that we receive from the world.” https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/

Every day we face unavoidable sensory input. Staying current with our dynamic world requires a lot of time and mental energy. Whether we are employed, stay-at-home moms or dads, or retired, most of us strive to keep up with the current tech advancements, political and social issues, the news, and unexpected life events. Yet, many fail to realize the impact that the additional noise [from the busyness of our lives, continuous stimuli of social media and electronic devices] has on our minds and bodies.

The endless streaming of daily newsworthy events, online games, social issues, DIY programs, and research on the chemicals in our foods and skin products resulted in a cluttered mind that robbed me of a peaceful existence. My sleep pattern changed and I began suffering from insomnia again–a condition known to accelerate premature aging and weaken the Immune system.

After many sleepless nights of staying awake until 6 am, I prayed for God’s help. God always answers prayers immediately when we are in harm’s way. Later that evening, a sermon appeared in my YouTube recommendations and the pastor spoke on the things that clutter our minds, leaving us exhausted and eventually separating us from God.

When the activities of daily living leave us feeling overwhelmed, it is difficult to determine the root of the problem. Societal norms force us to embrace the advancements of technology and electronics, the daily updates of social media, and the news which negatively impacts our health by leaving our brains cluttered. Most people utilize electronic apps to relax and fall asleep.

Our brains were not created to absorb the excessive screen time of daily electronic usage.

Even more devastating, the never-ending stimuli interrupt our spiritual connection with God. We are so bombarded that we [unintentionally] place God last on our list of priorities. At the end of the day, mental and physical exhaustion prevents us from having meaningful worship with our Heavenly Father. Our concentration is weakened and we cannot focus to study the Bible or communicate with God through prayer. Often though the trade-off is watching the nightly news and then falling asleep.

Too much stuff will always be the norm of today’s lifestyle. Yet, we can decide to identify, prioritize, and eliminate the over-stimuli, especially if it keeps us from a meaningful relationship with our Heavenly Father. Go ahead and change your habits and life by decluttering the stimuli you love.

Prayer: God, we pray for Your Divine Intervention. Please reveal the stuff that is keeping us mentally and physically exhausted and from experiencing daily spiritual growth. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.

Devotional–Heaven is Not for Everyone

Devotional–Heaven is Not for Everyone from The Struggle of Sanctification by Sonya Johnson

Two concepts are truth: People know when they intentionally hurt someone who loves them and Christians know whether or not they are living a faithful and obedient life.

“For the wages of sin is death, but the [a]gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.” Romans 6:23

Satan has deceived us into believing that God understands our sinful desires and that His grace will prevent us from the consequences of sin. Yet, Obedience to God is not an option!

How often do we think of Jesus who is Divine, commanding legions of angels, every breathing organism, and the natural elements, yet, when He came to earth, God required Him to learn obedience and become subservient to the human beings He created? Jesus obeyed His earthly parents along with the governmental laws. Even to His death, Jesus obeyed the will of God, His Father. If God required His Divine Son to learn obedience, then God does not and will not understand the disobedience of us living outside of His will and plans for us.

“The heart is deceitful above all things, And desperately wicked; Who can know it? I, the Lord, search the heart, I test the mind, Even to give every man according to his ways, According to the fruit of his doings.” (Jeremiah 17:9-10)

The prophet Jeremiah tells us of the natural condition of our hearts–deceitful and desperately wicked. We cannot self-evaluate or judge our sinful hearts. Only the Holy, Righteous and Perfect God can search our hearts and reveal our secret sins. God has set righteous standards that all who desire eternal life in heaven must obey without compromise. “…Be Holy, for I am Holy” (1 Peter 1:16).

God will judge each person according to His standards. He is the Righteous Judge who determines who will receive the reward of eternal life. Still, we play a significant part in our destiny. The Human Effort required for receiving eternal life in heaven is to love God with all of your heart, soul, and mind demonstrated by living faithful and obedient lives on earth, and to love others. “And behold, I am coming quickly, and My reward is with Me, to give to every one according to his work. I am the Alpha and the Omega, the Beginning and the End, the First and the Last” (Revelation 22:12-13).

Because we were born into sin and shaped with iniquity, God lovingly gave his only Son, Jesus for our Redemption. Jesus Christ gave His life willingly for us to be redeemed from our plight of sinfulness. So the understanding that God has is we will not intentionally rebel by disobeying and sinning against his laws. Yet, many commit intentional sins because of the Plan of Redemption which provides us with grace and mercy.

The Apostle Paul asks, “Well then, should we keep on sinning so that God can show us more and more of his wonderful grace? Of course not! Since we have died to sin, how can we continue to live in it? Or have you forgotten that when we were joined with Christ Jesus in baptism, we joined him in his death?” (Romans 6:1-3 NLT)

The profession of love for God includes humility and surrender. Daily confession, repentance, and praying for God to reveal His will is the lifestyle of a Christian. Making decisions without God’s blessings demonstrates rebellion against His Divine authority. It is easy to fall into sin, the slip of the tongue [using profane words], mistreating others, compromising righteous standards when among unbelievers, speeding down the highway, and having vain and lustful thoughts are sins that we easily overlook. But if our true desire is to spend eternal life in the presence of a Holy God, then we cannot live every day according to our desires or feel no remorse for disobedience.

The church of the Laodiceans in Revelation chapter 3 had grown lukewarm and useless. Their hearts were filled with selfish desires of focusing on wealth and culture. Their love for the carnal, materialistic things of the world kept them from living righteously. Yet, because of Christ’s love, they were given a warning of the consequences of being neither hot nor cold.

There is no middle ground. Living a selfish life of disobedience is rebellion against God. The consequence: “For behold, the day is coming, Burning like an oven, And all the proud, yes, all who do wickedly will be stubble. And the day which is coming shall burn them up,” Says the Lord of hosts, “That will leave them neither root nor branch” (Malachi 4:1).

We have a choice to make. When we choose righteousness, God provides Spiritual Reinforcement. Our Omnipotent God knows that we are involved in the conflict of spiritual warfare every day. We have a Father who has made provisions for humanity: the Spiritual Team of God, Jesus Christ, the Holy Spirit, and guardian angels who never sleep are the Spiritual Warriors who help and fight for us 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, and 365 days a year.

Yet, the human effort of surrender as demonstrated by faithful and obedient hearts, diligent study of the Bible, and much prayer is required for us to receive the Divine Intervention needed to live as Victorious Overcomers. It is only one way for us to obtain our Heavenly reward. By living courageously with a “Do Right” mindset that shuns evil, and a life that boldly proclaims to all, “I love God and I will not compromise!”

Saul, the ruthless killer being transformed into the Apostle Paul is our ultimate example of the power of salvation on the heart that willingly surrenders to Christ.

35-36 So do not throw away this confident trust in the Lord. Remember the great reward it brings you! Patient endurance is what you need now, so that you will continue to do God’s will. Then you will receive all that he has promised.

37 For in just a little while,the Coming One will come and not delay.

38 And my righteous ones will live by faith. But I will take no pleasure in anyone who turns away.

39 But we are not like those who turn away from God to their own destruction. We are the faithful ones, whose souls will be saved. (Hebrews 10:35-39)

Prayer: God, we confess and repent for our disobedience and wayward life. You have given us everything that we need to live righteously. We ask for forgiveness of sinful rebellion. Please cleanse us from all unrighteousness and fill us with your Holy Spirit. We ask you to reveal Your purpose and calling for our lives. Thank You for giving us the Holy Spirit who empowers us to recognize sin, and to become faithful and obedient. Yes, we desire eternal life. We love You and ask this prayer in the Worthy name of Jesus, Amen.

Walking with Courage and Determination

Devotional—The Struggle of Sanctification—Walking with Courage and Determination

So Jesus said to them, Because of your unbelief; for assuredly, I say to you, if you have faith as a mustard seed, you will say to this mountain, Move from here to there, and it will move, and nothing will be impossible for you. Matthew 17:20

The speaker relayed that her life was in chaos and her marriage was at an endpoint. She could not figure out what the problem was until her best friend took a trip to Israel and gave her a gift. She looked at the small glass globe with a tiny seed inside. “Thank you, but what is it?” “It is a mustard seed.” As soon as she heard it was a mustard seed, the Holy Spirit spoke to her and said this is the amount of faith you must have to believe in God.

For the rest of the story, God caused a whirlwind of change when she ceased focusing on her inability to change their life. Over time, her marriage was restored and she is now a copastor with her husband in a bible-based church.

What is the spiritual meaning of mountains? Mountains represent the obstacles and tests that cause disruption and sorrow in our lives—trials, hardships, sudden illnesses, rejection from others, loss of relationships, marriages, jobs, and repossession of homes, and vehicles. To withstand the life journey of trials and sorrows, as disciples of Jesus Christ, we must have faith, courage, and determination.

“But without faith, it is impossible to please Him, for he who comes to God must believe that He is and that He is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him.” (Hebrews 11:6)

Without faith, the impossible remains impossible! Our spiritual journey reflects our relationship with Jesus Christ. Where does faith come from? God has given us a measure [a seed] of faith that requires wholehearted belief in Him. Truthfully, we dread the mountains, but hardships produce continuous spiritual growth.

Faith is believing in God’s ability to deliver us in His timing and move our mountains. Jesus says if our faith is as little as a mustard seed, our mountains will be removed.

Our faith is the catalyst that loosens the stronghold! Yet, it is God’s power that removes the obstacle and brings victory. “And the Lord said to Moses, ‘Why do you cry to Me? Tell the children of Israel to go forward. But lift up your rod, and stretch out your hand over the sea and divide it. And the children of Israel shall go on dry ground through the midst of the sea'” (Exodus 14:15-16).

Whether from lack of knowledge or impatience, many believers give up [lose faith] when their obstacles are not removed immediately. God’s thoughts and ways are higher [read Isaiah 55:8-9], therefore, we cannot determine when we will receive Divine intervention. Yet, we can remain confident that God has heard our cry for help.

“Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the LORD your God will be with you wherever you go.” (Joshua 1:9)

It takes courage to have blind faith! God designed us to have the limited ability to see what is beyond today. In our weaknesses, Jesus gives us the strength to move forward in an unknown future. “Casting all your care upon Him, for He cares for you” (1 Peter 5:7). Unwavering faith and trust in God give us the determination to keep going. Every day, tell yourself, I don’t know how God’s going to do it, but His promises are “Yes” to which I say Amen!

How will we get to the other side of victory? Do not attempt to figure out how God will provide and resolve your tribulations. Pray and believe! “The righteous cry out, and the LORD hears, And delivers them out of all their troubles” (Psalm 34:17). Put God first! To hear God’s voice, we must reduce the world’s noise. Every day, separate yourself, go into your secret closet and pray for strength and ask for the anointing of the Holy Spirit.

“And behold, I am coming quickly, and My reward is with Me, to give to everyone according to his work.” (Revelation 22:12)

God is preparing us for a time of great tribulation. Our faith cannot stay the size of a mustard seed. God requires steadfast faith that grows to the point that nothing shakes our faith and confidence in Him. Reflect on your past victories. It was God who brought you through the impossible. Despite the size and number of mountains, we are victorious overcomers when we walk with the courage and determination to trust in God.

Prayer: God, we pray for the anointing of the Holy Spirit. Give us the strength as we move forward with the determination to live faithful and courageously, In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen. 

Jesus’ Benevolent Heart

Devotional—The Struggle of Sanctification—Jesus’ Benevolent Heart 

The word benevolence is rarely used in modern society. If you are under the age of 50 then you may have never heard the word. Although there are various definitions for benevolence, we are referring to the biblical definition of having the disposition to do good. The disposition [natural tendency] to do good is not based on acts of kindness. Benevolence is one of the character traits of the Fruit of the Spirit. The individual has a good heart regardless of the circumstances. The benevolent heart seeks to please God and do good for others.

Our role model is Jesus Christ. His divine nature is to please God as evidenced by never-ceasing goodness. Throughout the Bible, Jesus’ nature is revealed to humanity. It was Jesus who created the world and human beings. “In the beginning was the Word [Jesus], and the Word [Jesus] was with God, and the Word [Jesus] was God. He was in the beginning with God. All things were made through him, and without him was not anything made that was made” (John 1:1-3).

Is Jesus also God? Bible theologians agree that Hebrews chapter 1 describes the coronation of Jesus in heaven and gives us evidence that God the Father called Jesus, God, and that Jesus is the Creator.

But to the Son, He says, Your throne, O God is forever and ever, A scepter of righteousness is the scepter of Your kingdom. You have loved righteousness and hated lawlessness, Therefore God, Your God, has anointed You with the oil of gladness more than Your companions [the angels]. You, LORD, in the beginning, laid the foundation of the earth, And the heavens are the work of Your hands… (Hebrews 1:8-10)

Jesus’ benevolent heart is evidenced by His heavenly role of Intercessor [High Priest] for humanity. The splendor of this earth and the cosmic beauty of the universe proclaim His goodness! Yet, Jesus’ most incredible creation is human beings who are made in His image. In Psalm 139, verse 14, King David says, “I will praise You, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made; Marvelous are Your works, And that my soul knows very well.” 

Jesus performed countless miracles from heaven [documented in the Old Testament] before He was born on earth and grew into manhood. We are also privileged to study His earthly life in the New Testament. Jesus’ benevolent heart is demonstrated by the numerous, compassionate miracles of healing and feeding the hungry].

Yet, John, the disciple that Jesus loved [because John desired to have the character of Christ] records in John chapter 21, verse 25, “And there are also many other things that Jesus did, which if they were written one by one, I suppose that even the world itself could not contain the books that would be written. Amen” (John 21:25).

And we delight in reading the release of Paul and Silas who sang and their chains fell off. An angel was sent to release Peter from jail and the Apostle John [who Jesus loved] was boiled in oil but suffered no burns and was saved from death.

From Jesus’ benevolent heart love, grace, and mercy flow abundantly for us–His sons and daughters who He died for. What about us? Do we have benevolent hearts?

There are three things that we will be judged on:

1. Did we have a relationship with Christ? “I am the vine, you are the branches. He who abides in Me, and I in him, bears much fruit; for without Me you can do nothing” (John 15:5). 
2. Did we strive to have the character of Christ? “If you love Me, keep My commandments” (John 14:15). “Because it is written, “Be holy, for I am holy” (1 Peter 1:16).
3. Did we love God and others as evidenced by our benevolent heart? “If someone has enough money to live well and sees a brother or sister in need but shows no compassion—how can God’s love be in that person?” (1 John 3:17)

Although Merriam-Webster dictionary defines benevolence as “acts of kindness” the biblical meaning of benevolence is having the spiritual character trait of goodness. As Christians, God expects us to be Christ-like in our character, thoughts, behaviors, and actions. Our Heavenly Father is aware that we cannot change without Divine Intervention.

Sanctification is continuous spiritual growth that can only be achieved by the daily anointing of the Holy Spirit. The human effort of prayer, studying of the Scriptures, faith, trust, and obedience to God places us in the posture of humility to receive the Divine power required for spiritual transformation. To possess the Fruit of the Spirit is to possess a benevolent heart.

Prayer: God, we commit ourselves to You and ask for the anointing of the Holy Spirit to empower us to have a benevolent heart. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.

While You Wait On God

Concepts you need to know while waiting on God’s answer to your prayers.

1. You don’t need what you don’t have for God to fulfill His purpose.

2. You don’t need what you used to have for God to fulfill His purpose.

3. You may experience a major life event that totally changes the direction of your life.

4. Don’t give up because you are counting the hours or the days since you prayed for God’s Divine intervention.

5. We do not have to beg God for His help or a miracle. He heard your prayers. Read Isaiah 65:24.

“Wait on the LORD; Be of good courage, And He shall strengthen your heart; Wait, I say, on the LORD!” (Psalm 27:14)

Prayer: God, please help us to understand that its your way and your timing. Please give us strength to endure and persevere the times of testing in our lives. In Jesus’ Worthy name, we pray. Amen.

The Perfect Healthy Relationship

During my employment with a major health insurance company, a severe issue arose not covered by a company policy. In a clinical environment, a Registered Nurse is the licensed professional that the paraprofessional staff must report to as regulated by the Board of Nursing. Our team consisted of one lead RN and several LPNs responsible for monthly physician statistical reports indicating the level of care met for patients with chronic diseases. The lead RN of one of the teams discovered a deficit in the data submission of one of the nurses and addressed it in a 1:1 meeting with the LPN. Emotions escalated, not because of the error, but focus on the statement, “You are not in charge of me.” It led to a significant conflict and fiasco that eventually was reported to Human Resources.

The outcome From HR’s intervention required the development of a new [immediate] policy: Because we were in a non-clinical environment, the lead RN was not responsible for the deficiencies of the members on the team. All concerns would require a description in writing from the Lead RN or the LPN to the Departmental Manager. Although the policy addressed the hierarchy of command, an unhealthy relationship developed in the majority of the teams, which affected the cohesiveness of the department.

The Apostle Paul Addressing the Conflict in the Early Churches

God designated the Apostle Paul to witness to the Gentiles. From reading the books that he wrote–letters to the churches and to Timothy, we become aware of the confusion in the churches. The dissension was due to the rivalry between the new converts who were former unbelievers with pagan practices–the worship of gods and goddesses. Many were high-ranking priestesses and individuals with significant wealth and influence who assumed they would keep their worldly status in the church. And yes, they were highly offended by Paul’s teachings: All believers are of the body of Christ and equal, regardless of social or financial status. In the presence of God and of Christ Jesus and of the elect angels, I charge you to keep these rules without prejudging, doing nothing from partiality. 1 Timothy 5:21

2021–The multitude of believers with an Unhealthy Relationship with God

Many modern churches have protocols that give recognition to the wealthiest congregants. The front rows are assigned based on social status, and they are readily elected to the most prominent positions in the church. Recently, I listened to a sermon by Dr. Sonnie Badu, which addressed a most heart-wrenching situation, “members that esteem their Pastors above Jesus Christ.”

At first, one would think that this is a cultural belief. However, worshipping one’s pastor has permeated Christianity on a global level. I was sent a question by a young woman who asked, “Why do certain Christian women dress modestly?” She rejected the scriptural answers by proudly affirming that her pastor stated, “It doesn’t matter how we dress because we are clothed in Christ’s righteousness.” I said a silent prayer for the Holy Spirit to reveal her error. No, I did not send a reply. When individuals desire to disobey God’s truth and follow their desires, it is a matter between them and God.

Sadly, many who know the biblical truth do not possess the desire to obey God. One of the defining characteristics is the refusal to observe the seventh-day Sabbath. For I am the Lord, I change not…Malachi 3:6. This scripture is all-inclusive, not limited to the subject of tithe and offerings. With a sound mind, we can reason that if nine of the ten commandments remain unchanged, and only the fourth commandment has changed, it is false teaching and definitely not of God. [Research Emperor Constantine and his change of Saturday- Sabbath.] “For the person who keeps all of the laws except one is as guilty as a person who has broken all of God’s laws.” James 2:10

God is not a religion or denomination, nor has He changed any of His laws except for Ceremonial laws. When Jesus [the Lamb of God] was crucified and died, the veil ripped from top to bottom. See Matthew 27:51. There was no longer a need for the sacrifice of animals to cover humanity’s sins.

Jesus defines the relationship that he requires of His disciples:

Anyone who loves his father or mother more than Me is not worthy of Me; anyone who loves his son or daughter more than Me is not worthy of Me, and anyone who does not take up his cross and follow Me is not worthy of Me.… Matthew 10:37-38

It is not easy to follow Jesus. We will be excluded from family, friends, society, and government. Even so, we must have the courage to obey the scriptures.

All scripture is given by inspiration of God and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, thoroughly equipped for every good work. 1 Timothy 3:16-17

Daily Prayer, the study of the Scriptures, Obedience, Faith, and Trust in God are the foundation of a healthy relationship with God. Indeed, our lives must be in alignment with God’s requirements. Pray for the anointing of the Holy Spirit, who is our Teacher. God never withholds the truth from those who diligently seek Him.

We will hear “Well-done” from Jesus Christ if we have given 100% to faithfully following Him. Nothing else is above having a healthy, thriving spiritual relationship with Jesus based on love and obedience.

Prayer: God, I pray for those in a dilemma between letting go of beliefs not scripturally based. Give them the courage to accept the truth. Please send the Holy Spirit to teach and comfort them to make the transition to commandment-keeping disciples. I ask this prayer in Jesus’ Worthy name. Amen. © 2021 Sonya Johnson, Faithful Fishers Ministry

Give Us This Day

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The Change in the Atmosphere, part 1

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The Forecast: Stormy Weather Ahead

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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