Author: Pastor Ray Patrick

Have you ever heard the statement, “Some people are so heavenly minded that they are no earthly good?” The Pharisees were so Sabbath-minded that they were no earthly good. They worried about their righteous standing before God and did not notice the obvious needs of their community – like a woman “crippled by a spirit for eighteen years.”

Scripture says, while teaching in the temple on the Sabbath, Jesus made clear that God was available for doing good on the Sabbath, even if the Pharisees weren’t. Our Lord was interested in bringing hope to God’s kingdom on this holy day, in which we all will have abundant life forever.

Jesus, in a calm and gentle voice, called the woman to him and said, “You are set free from your infirmity.” He placed his hands on her crooked, bent-over body and filled her with God’s Sabbatical healing power. At once, she was healed, and she praised God. Joy came to her on the day that was meant for freedom, worship and thanksgiving. However, not everyone was thrilled with Jesus’ intervention. The Pharisees were unhappy because Jesus healed someone on the Sabbath, a day meant for no work.

Today, Jesus knows the Sabbath is for doing good and showing grace in the name of the Father – as Christ did for many on the Sabbath. He restored the Sabbath to its original intent: that all good things come from God, who is always available to help us, no matter the day or time. Thank God that he never takes a day off from caring for you and me!

“Woman, you are set free from your infirmity.” Luke 13:12 

Let’s Pray

Yahweh, thank you for being Lord of the Sabbath. Father help me see that you are always available to bring healing and Joy, even on the sabbath. Listening for my cry no matter what the day or time. Thank you, God, for being Lord of the sabbath and not leaving it up to man’s legalistic ideology, in Christ’s name, Amen.

Growing up, I truly believed that the Sabbath was about rules, but over the years I have learned that not only is it about love for God, but also for each other. Therefore, another Sabbath practice to develop is that of embracing people. Sabbath invites us to value the relationships that God has placed in our lives.

The Pharisees were deeply disturbed by the Sabbath habits of Jesus and his disciples. As far as they were concerned, thirteen men walking through a field picking heads of grain were harvesting and rubbing those grains together and blowing off the chaff to eat the grain was threshing. The Pharisees, in an attempt to safeguard the Sabbath from work, had strictly forbidden both activities.

Jesus reminded them, however, that even their greatest earthly King, David, had once eaten consecrated bread in a time of need. Jesus was referring to a time when David was running for his life from King Saul and in desperation, had gone to the high priest to get food for his men (1 Samuel 21:1-6). The only food available was the consecrated bread that only the priests were allowed to eat. Although he no doubt struggled with the decision, the priest rightly decided to offer David the bread.

Today, there is a need for people to do away with man-made rules and regulations that only promote self and devalues others. The Sabbath is about fellowship and relationships not promoting bondage and fear. People are vitally important to God, embracing others and building relationships is a vital Sabbath practice for us.

When the Pharisees saw this, they said to [Jesus], “Look! Your disciples are doing what is unlawful on the Sabbath.” Matthew 12:2 

Let’s Pray

Yahweh, thank you for the many people you’ve placed in my life. Father, help me to be mindful of them throughout life but especially on the Sabbath. God, help me to build new relationships as I embrace your holy day and to reach out to them with your compassion, love, and care. In Jesus name, Amen.

Have you ever said to yourself in the words of that Tremaine Hawkins song “God what move shall I make, what step shall I take?” Philip, whom the Spirit called in our text today, had instructions on where to go. An angel of the Lord told Philip to go south to the desert road leading from Jerusalem to Gaza. There Philip met an Ethiopian official who was returning home from Jerusalem. The Spirit then led Philip to stay near the man and to help him understand a passage he was reading from Isaiah. Philip explained that the passage was about Jesus, the Son of God, who came to die for our sins, and then Philip baptized the Ethiopian, just as the man asked him to do.

Through the Spirit and the Word, the Lord directs us every day. God calls us to walk in his ways, loving the Lord with all our heart, soul, mind, and strength, and loving our neighbours as ourselves.

Today does God speak to us in the way he spoke to Philip? God certainly does speak to us in direct dramatic ways, but more often the Spirit of God speaks to us in quiet, subtle ways through his Word and through other believers (like Philip). We should always be following God’s Word and listening for his voice, especially as he nudges us to share his love with others.

The eunuch asked Philip, “Tell me, please, who is the prophet talking about . . . ?” Acts 8:34 

Let’s Pray

Yahweh, help me to listen for your voice as you speak to me in different ways. Father, help me spend more time in your word so your voice will be clear to me. And let me like Philip, share your love with the people I meet In Jesus’s name. Amen.

God! I have fasted and prayed but still no answer. Why is it taking so long? This was my conversation with God just the other day. Are you praying for something that’s taking longer than you thought or expected? No matter how long you may have been standing on God’s promises, don’t give up! Your season is coming. Your harvest of blessing is on its way. It might be today, it might be tomorrow, it might be next week, next month or next year; but remember, at just the right time, you will experience your breakthrough. Hallelujah! 

Be encouraged because God is faithful, and His promises are true. Keep standing, keep hoping, keep believing. Keep doing good. Keep declaring the promises of God over your life. 

Today, choose to be around people who are going to encourage you. Make sure you fill your heart and mind with God’s Word. Let a song of praise come out of your mouth. Press on in faith because at just the right time, your harvest of blessing will come! Because God cares. 

“Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.” (1 Peter 5:7, NIV)   

Let’s Pray 

Yahweh, thank You for Your goodness and faithfulness in my life. Thank You for caring, refreshing and renewing my heart. Fill me with Your peace; fill me with Your strength. Help me not to get weary as I wait for my blessing, trusting that Your timing is best. Teach me to do good and stand firm, until I see my harvest of blessing, in Christ’ name! Amen.

As I watched a cross-country race, I was amazed at how many obstacles they had to get over before getting to the finish line. God wants to empower and strengthen you to overcome every obstacle in this life. He wants to give you confidence, wisdom, and boldness to pursue the dreams and desires in your heart. He wants to give you supernatural insight so that you can be a witness to His goodness.

In scripture, Peter and John were supernaturally equipped. Everyone around them marvelled at their boldness, at their ability. They knew Peter and John didn’t have any formal training. They knew there wasn’t anything special about them. This power and wisdom could have only come from one place – being in the presence of God.

Today remember, when you spend time with Jesus, people will see it. You’ll be energized for the race ahead by God’s anointing and equipped by His grace. That’s why it’s so important, now and in the months to come, to take time every day to be in His presence. No matter where you are on this earth, God’s presence is only a prayer away. Scripture says He is near to all who call upon His name. It says that He inhabits the praises of His people. I encourage you to make your relationship with God your number one priority and be empowered by His presence every single day!

“Now when they saw the boldness of Peter and John, and perceived that they were uneducated and untrained men, they marvelled. And they realized that they had been with Jesus” (Acts 4:13, NKJV) 

Let’s Pray

Yahweh, I humbly come before You, giving You all that I am. Father, I surrender every area of my life to You and invite You to have Your way in my heart. God, I ask for strength and boldness to get over and through life’s obstacles. Please, Lord, empower me with Your love as I daily set my focus on You. I want to remain in Your presence and receive Your anointing. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

One of the biggest questions many people ask is how does God speak? He speaks directly, He speaks through His Word, He speaks through dreams and visions, and He also speaks through others. Are you facing an important decision today? God wants to give you the answer. He wants to direct your steps. Many times, He will speak to us through the people He has placed in our lives. That’s why the Bible says that safety is found in a multitude of advisers.

God designed us to live in families, communities and congregations. We need to be open to receiving input from the people who are close to us. That doesn’t mean you have to follow everything everyone tells you. But if you’re in a particular situation or relationship, and everyone around you is giving you the same word of caution, it may be God trying to get a message to you.

Today, take all things before the Lord in prayer and make sure the advice doesn’t contradict His Word.  Ask Him to confirm His perfect plan in your heart. Remember, wisdom comes from God, and wise counsel will always be in agreement with God’s Word. He will always confirm the answer when you ask Him. So, whatever you are facing, be open to receiving wise counsel. As you do, you will be blessed and protected, and walk in confidence down the path the Lord has prepared for you!

“Where there is no guidance the people fall, but in abundance of counsellors there is victory.” (Proverbs 11:14, NASB)

Let’s Pray

Yahweh, thank You for the spiritual people You have placed in my life. Father, please confirm and give me answers to the issues in my life. Help me understand Your truth so that I can make godly choices. Keep me close to You always so I will clearly know when You are speaking, and lead me in Your way, in Jesus’ name! Amen.

Sitting in Faro airport in Portugal looking at the military men, who have huge guns, they looked armed and dangerous. They have all they need to fight and protect their country. God has equipped you with everything you need to fulfil your destiny through His Word, your spiritual weapon. That means you can do what He has called you to do well. You can accomplish your goals. You can fulfil your dreams! You have the ideas, the creativity, and the talent to be successful. You can overcome any obstacle. You’ve been armed with strength for every battle.

Remember, not only has God equipped you, but He is also working on your behalf. He has already gone before you and lined up the right people and the right opportunities. You have everything you need to live a victorious life — you were created to excel!

Today, if you’ll stay in faith, it’s just a matter of time; victory is on its way. Don’t settle where you are. Don’t have a weak, defeated mentality. Have the attitude, “I am anointed. I can accomplish my dreams. I can overcome any obstacle. I am empowered by the Creator of the universe, and I am thoroughly equipped for every good work that God has called me to do!”

“Every Scripture is God-breathed…so that the man of God may be complete and proficient, well fitted and thoroughly equipped for every good work.” (2 Timothy 3:16–17, AMP)

Let’s Pray

Yahweh, thank You for equipping me. Thank You for empowering me. Father, help me stay focused on Your Word and plan for me today. Help me walk in Your anointing so that I can do all You’ve called me to do. God, I bless You today, for trusting me with these spiritual weapons, in Jesus’ name! Amen.

I want to share with you some of the lessons I learned over the last sixty years of life. In life, challenges may come your way, but don’t be worried about them. You know that ultimately, things are going to work out for your good. You know that no weapon formed against you shall prosper. What a wonderful promise we have, that when we seek God, when we serve Him with our whole hearts, He will hide us in His shelter. Hallelujah!

Therefore you can be so connected to God, that you are untouchable, and invisible to the enemy! You are hidden in Him! No matter what is happening around you, you can have strength, confidence and rest in Him.

Today, people may be talking about you, trying to make you look bad, but you don’t even give it a second thought. You know that your future is too bright to be distracted. You know they don’t control your destiny. You just keep on being your best, walking in integrity, meditating on the Word and worshipping throughout the day, so you remain hidden in Him!

“For in the day of trouble he will keep me safe in his dwelling; he will hide me in the shelter of his sacred tent and set me high upon a rock.” (Psalm 27:5, NIV)

Let’s Pray

Yahweh, thank you for sixty years of experiences. I come to You today with an open and humble heart. Father, I thank You for Your promise that You will hide me. Make me invisible and untouchable to the enemy. I surrender every area of my life to You. God, mould me into Your image and keep me hidden in You. I bless You and praise You today and always, in Jesus’ name! Amen.

Today’s scripture must be the most powerful sentence ever written. With all the books written about love, even with all the Scriptures that talk about love, this is the only place where God wrote down his definition of love for all to see.

Scripture suggests that Love is not simply a feeling, an action, or even a commitment although all those things are involved. Love is beyond words and has been communicated most clearly through the Father’s will and the Son’s sacrifice when Jesus died on the cross to restore our relationship with God.

Today, no matter what angle we view it from, God’s love is always more. From the angle of the Father, he sacrificed what was dearest to him for the sake of those who needed him more. From the Son’s perspective, he sacrificed himself to restore us to the Father. And from our perspective to the extent that we can see it honestly, we were lost and without hope in the world. Because of our sin, we were headed for destruction with no way to save ourselves. God “sent his Son as an atoning sacrifice for our sins.” Why? Because he loves us. And in the light of that love, there is more: “If we love one another, God lives in us and his love is made complete in us.”

‘This is love: not that we loved God, but that he loved us and sent his Son as an atoning sacrifice for our sins.’ – 1 John 4:10.

Let’s pray

Yahweh, my love does not compare to yours. Father, how can it be that my weak love can complete yours? God teach me to accept your love. Then show me how to love. Lord, help my love to grow. In Jesus’s name, Amen.

No book in scripture gives us a practical look at the Great controversy like the book of Job. It opens, with God telling Satan: “There is no one on earth like him. For Job was blameless and upright; he feared God and shunned evil.” Job is also described as “the greatest man among all the people of the East.” He was wealthy like most people in the North African region and God had blessed him with seven sons and three daughters.

Scripture says, Job worshipped God faithfully. Every day he sacrificed a burnt offering for each of his children in case they had sinned against God. But the devil claimed that Job only served God for what he could get out of it. In other words, Job’s faith lacked integrity; Job only walked with God because it made him prosper.

God allowed Satan to test Job’s faith. God allowed Satan to take away Job’s children and wealth. And although Job’s faith became strained, it did not break. Job never cursed God. He remained faithful, even confessing, “The LORD gave, and the LORD has taken away; may the name of the LORD be praised.”

Today you may be going through a “Job moment” in your life. Life may be tough right now. Your walk with God isn’t making you rich, keeping you from sickness, or protecting your children from troubles. Will you, with Job, show the integrity of your faith by continuing to walk with God? Despite your present struggles, God will not leave your side. And like Job he will restore everything and more that the devil had taken.

“Job … was blameless and upright; he feared God and shunned evil.” Job 1:1 

Let’s Pray

Yahweh, thank you for all you have given us and for being by our side in times of trouble. Father, give us integrity and increase our faith in you, so that when we and those around us are sick or have lost our livelihood, we don’t give up and break our love and commitment to you. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

One of my favourite stories of the Old Testament is that of Naaman. He was on a journey to find His healing from leprosy. He first goes to the King of Israel – but that King is not the source of healing. Elisha hears about this visitor from a foreign land and invites the King to send Naaman to him. 

Scripture says Naaman arrives at the house of Elisha, expecting to get a royal welcome and healing from the prophet himself. But instead, a servant comes out and tells him to wash seven times in the Jordan River. Naaman’s expectations almost derail his blessings. Military Generals do not expect to take orders, especially from the servant! 

While Naaman was about to walk away from his blessing because of his pride, Naaman’s servants redirect his path. These unnamed servants respectfully challenge Naaman not to turn away from an “ordinary task” when he would have willingly done a much more difficult thing. Naaman wisely listens to these servants, humbles himself, and dips into the dirty Jordan River. What is God asking you to do to get healing and freedom? 

Today, we learn that Naaman obeys God and is healed. A journey that began with an unnamed servant girl from Israel ends with the unnamed servants of the military general and Naaman testifying that there is no God in the whole world except the God of Israel. His unnamed servants, young and old, are ordinary people whom God uses for his extraordinary purposes. Because of their words, a heathen leader is “born again” in the waters of the Jordan and becomes a follower of Yahweh. 

“Now I know that there is no God in all the world except in Israel. So please accept a gift from your servant.” 2 Kings 5:15 

Let’s Pray 

Yahweh, my God of grace, I thank you for the healing that comes when I humble myself before you. Father, thank you for the community of faith that encourages me (like Naaman’s servants) on my journey to you. In Jesus’s name, Amen. 

There are some religions that teach salvation as obedience to the law. Trying to achieve justification through obedience to the law is impossible for us. We have all sinned and broken the law, and when we try to keep the law, we keep breaking it because we have a sinful human nature. Our human efforts to keep the law to gain God’s favour are futile. Forgiveness and the power to overcome sin are not within human capacity. Only God can forgive and can give us the power to live in obedience to his will. We can be saved only by trusting in the person and work of Jesus Christ as Saviour, not by works or attempts to be good. The good news is that forgiveness and salvation are free!

Often our worldly view of reality tricks us into thinking that something free is cheap and of poor quality. We are wary of free things. We like the feeling of ownership and control that we get when we buy things. But salvation is one thing we can’t buy. The message of the gospel goes against our thirst for control. The Saviour who sets us free also claims free reign over our lives.

Today are you suffering under the yoke of legalism through denominationalism? Have you been trying to please God by your own efforts by obeying the law? Quit trying to help God. Receive by faith the forgiveness of your sins through the sacrifice of Christ on the cross. Confess your sins, repent, and receive God’s forgiveness by faith. It’s a love thing.

Through Jesus the forgiveness of sins is proclaimed . … [and] everyone who believes is justified. Acts 13:38-39 

Let’s Pray

Yahweh, forgive me for trying to be my own saviour and for emphasizing works above grace, faith, and love. Father, help me to accept freely the grace and salvation that you offer me through Jesus Christ alone. God thank you for the realization that I’m not saved by keeping the law but by your love and my response to your love. Yahweh, I love you in your name I pray Amen.

One of my dear friends was laid to rest yesterday. It was a reminder to me that it’s time to live my dream. Have you ever been passionate about a dream or vision, only to have it never come to pass? It’s time to change that narrative. Scripture tells us that God has an appointed time to fulfil the visions, dreams and desires He has placed in our hearts. Just because it has taken a long time, or you’ve tried and not succeeded, doesn’t mean it’s not going to happen.

 

Don’t give up on those dreams! Don’t be complacent about pursuing what God has placed in your heart. God is a faithful God. No matter how long it’s been or how impossible things seem, if you stay in faith, your God-appointed time is coming. Hallelujah! Remember, every dream that’s in your heart, every promise that has taken root, God put it in there. And not only that, but He intends to bring it to pass. 

 

 

Today, hold on to your vision or dream by declaring, “my time is coming. God is working things out on my behalf. I will fulfil my destiny!” As you continue to hold on to that vision and daily speak life over your dreams, you’ll see them begin to take shape. You’ll see your faith grow, you’ll see your hope strengthened, and you’ll see yourself step into the destiny God has prepared for you at the appointed time!

 

“For the vision is yet for an appointed time…though it tarry, wait for it…” (Habakkuk 2:3, KJV)

 

Let’s Pray

Yahweh, I receive Your truth today. I receive Your promises. Father, ignite my visions and dreams with Your holy fire so that I can pursue Your perfect plan for my life. Make my thoughts and words agreeable to Your will. God, give me the faith I need to hold on when life’s failures seem to get me down and rob me of purpose, in Jesus’ Name! Amen.

European history tells us that In A.D. 410, barbarian tribes poured into Rome, ravaging and pillaging the city. In response to critics who said the rise of Christianity had weakened Rome, Augustine, bishop of the city of Hippo in North Africa, wrote the book “The City of God.” In this book, which became a major influence in Western civilization, Augustine sort to bring assurance to those who had been violated and explained how Christ brings hope in all situations. His goal was to bring the healing power of Christ and his good news to those who were traumatized.

The scripture reminds us that our Lord himself was “a man of suffering, and familiar with pain” (Isaiah 53:3). Since a child in Bethlehem, when he barely escaped a massacre, to his death on the cross, he was the target of violence and hatred. Yet, he continued to move with love among the people, healing miraculously with touch and word.

Today, as we contemplate the good news of healing, what comes to mind is that inscription over the door in the great hospital in New York: “Of The Most High Cometh Healing.” What is it that haunts your heart and threatens to leave your life in pain and ruin? Look to Jesus for your every need. Remember, “He took our pain and bore our suffering” at Calvary and “by His stripes, we are healed,” the bible says. Therefore, God’s ultimate plan is not just divine healing but divine Health.

When evening came, many who were demon-possessed were brought to him, and he drove out the spirits with a word and healed all the sick (Matthew 8:16).

Let’s Pray

Yahweh, thank you for the healing of physical pains and difficulties. However, I know that the root of my trouble is deeper and that only you can ultimately heal my heart and soul, Amen.

Friend, why don’t you join me by Stretching out your hand to God today and be healed?