Our Ancestor In Faith
Do Not Grieve The Holy Ghost
- Unforgiveness: Holding onto grudges and refusing to forgive others can create a barrier between us and the Spirit’s work of reconciliation and peace. (Mark 11:23-25)
- Bitterness and Anger: Allowing these emotions to take root in our hearts can quench the Spirit’s work of producing love and kindness. (Ephesians 4:32 NKJV)
- Immoral Behaviour: Engaging in actions that contradict God’s moral standards can stifle the Spirit’s work of sanctification in our lives.
- Disobedience to God’s Word: Ignoring or rebelling against the teachings of Scripture can hinder the Spirit’s guidance and wisdom. (Ephesians 5:6)
- Neglecting Spiritual Disciplines: Failing to pray, read the Bible, and fellowship with other believers can weaken our connection to the Spirit.
- Unconfessed Sin: Sinning without confession, repentance, or regard for God’s presence through his Spirit will eventually separate us from the Spirit. (Psalm 66:18)
Don’t Worry About It!
God Will Help You – Don’t Panic
God’s call to “not fear” is more than comforting advice; it’s a directive, grounded in His unchanging presence. It reminds us that no matter what we face, we are not alone. The Almighty is with us, and His presence assures us of security and peace.
The Bible tells us of God’s personal support – to strengthen, help, and uphold us. It is incredibly powerful. It’s not a distant, abstract assurance; it’s a commitment from God to be actively involved in our lives. He offers strength when we are weak, help when we are overwhelmed, and support when we feel like we’re falling.
Today, let’s embrace the depth of God’s commitment to us. Let His words sink deep into our hearts, dispelling fear and replacing it with a profound sense of His strength and nearness. In every challenge, remember that God is there, ready to provide the strength and help we need. His unwavering support is our constant source of strength and reassurance.
Fear not, for I am with you; Be not dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you, Yes, I will help you, I will uphold you with My righteous right hand. (Isaiah 41:10).
Let’s Pray
Yahweh, Father, help me not to be afraid, timid, fearful, or worried. Father, I don’t even want to allow a tiny bit of fear to enter the equation. Instead, I want to trust You completely. Please God, empower me to be strong and courageous! Help me not to be afraid and not to panic. Thank You for the promise that You will personally go ahead of me. You will neither fail me, nor abandon me. God help me to be strong in You and Your mighty power. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Hold Fast, For I am Coming
As a child mum used to sing the song “Hold Fast For I am Coming”. Amid trials and tribulations, the words of our Lord in Revelation 3 resound with a clarion call, “I am coming soon”. This promise is a message of hope, reminding us that our struggles are temporal and that eternal glory awaits those who persevere. As believers, we are called to hold fast to our faith, the precious crown that has been bestowed upon us through the grace of our Saviour.
In this scripture, the crown represents our Eternal salvation, our victory in Christ, and the rewards that await us in heaven. It is a symbol of our identity as children of God, chosen and set apart for His glory. However, the journey is fraught with challenges, and there are forces at play that seek to derail us from our path. The enemy prowls like a roaring lion, looking for whom he may devour (1 Peter 5:8). Therefore, we must be vigilant, steadfast in our faith, and anchored in the Word of God.
To hold on to what we have means to cling to our faith with unwavering resolve. It means to stand firm against the tide of temptation, to resist the allure of worldly pleasures, and to endure hardships with patience and grace. It is a call to remain faithful to the teachings of Christ, to live a life that is pleasing to Him, and to be a beacon of light in a darkened world.
Today, as we await the return of our Lord, we must remember that our crown is not just a future reward but a present reality. It is a reminder of the victory we have in Christ, a victory that empowers us to overcome the world. So, let us hold on to what we have, for in doing so, we secure our crown and ensure that no one can take it away.
“I am coming soon. Hold fast what you have, so that no one may seize your crown.” (Revelation 3:11).
Let’s Pray
Yahweh, please help me in these last days, to be always ready, counted worthy, and always watching for the glorious return of my Lord Jesus Christ, in Whose Name I pray. Father, thank You for Your wonderful grace and keeping power. Lord, I trust wholly in you and in Your most gracious salvation, help me to hold fast till You come. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Trust
Today’s verse is one of my all-time favourites. It begins with asking us to Trust in the Lord with all our hearts, which calls us to a faith that goes beyond the intellectual. It’s a deep-seated trust that permeates every aspect of our lives. This trust challenges us to relinquish our reliance on our own limited understanding and to fully embrace God’s wisdom and sovereignty.
The next part of these verses admonishes us to “Lean not on our own understanding”. This is an invitation to acknowledge the limitations of our human perspective. It’s a call to seek God’s wisdom in all situations, especially when circumstances seem perplexing or challenging.
The final part is a promise that God will make our paths straight. This is not an assurance of a problem-free life, rather, it is a guarantee that when we submit our ways to Him, He will guide us towards His best for us. Straight paths represent a life guided by God’s wisdom and purpose, marked by clarity and direction.
Today, in our daily journey, we need to embrace this call to trust in the Lord and to seek His guidance. It’s time to lay down our plans and understanding at His feet and allow His wisdom to lead us. In doing so, we find peace and assurance, knowing that we are walking in the path God has set for us.
Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight. (Proverbs 3:5-6).
Let’s Pray
Yahweh, you are perfectly faithful in everything you do. You show your faithfulness to me in caring for me, protecting me, and providing for my needs. Forgive me for the times I question you, grumble about my circumstances, or turn my back on you. I want to be like Moses and trust you even when I’m feeling unsure and my confidence is shaky. Show me one small way I can trust you today. I want to declare your faithfulness with certainty to those around me, so they will put their faith and trust in you. Show me who I can encourage today. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
God’s Sovereignty in The Winter Time
While in Montreal Canada last week, I was amazed to see snow. I heard a very cold winter storm had come through, It was an amazing site. The snow blanketed the earth, and the frost painted the landscape, a clean look – a witness to the artistry of God, a testament to His power and meticulous design. The winter storm, with its stark beauty and formidable strength, is a vivid reminder that every aspect of nature is under God’s command. His sovereignty extends over the vast expanse of the universe, down to the intricate details of weather patterns.
In scripture, the psalmist paints a vivid picture of God’s control over the elements, describing how He blankets the earth with snow and scatters frost like ashes. Just as the Lord orchestrates the changing seasons and commands the snow to fall, He exercises His divine authority over every aspect of our lives.
Today, as we navigate the cold front that’s on the way and endure the frigid temperatures, even in spring, let us praise the Lord for His sovereignty. Trust that He is with us in every season of life, providing warmth and shelter in His unfailing love. May winter storms be a reminder of God’s absolute control and a call to trust in His sovereignty even in the coldest and most challenging times of our lives.
He spreads the snow like wool and scatters the frost like ashes. He hurls down his hail like pebbles. Who can withstand his icy blast? (Psalm 147:16-17).
Lets Pray
Yahweh, You made the seasons from the very beginning. Father, the change of seasons has always been a part of Your promise that they will never cease. We know when seasons in our own lives come and go, it is for Your good. Thank You for the beauty of the seasons, we can witness them both in nature and in our own lives. Grant us the strength to get through each one, in Jesus name Amen.
What Can Man Do To Me?
In life, we often encounter situations where we feel threatened or intimidated by others. These moments can stir up fear, leading us to forget the greater power that stands with us. However, today’s verse redirects our focus, reminding us that when God is our helper, the ability of people to truly harm us diminishes significantly.
The rhetorical question in today’s verse, “What can man do to me?” is not a dismissal of real challenges, but rather a bold statement of faith. It emphasizes that the outcomes of our lives are not in human hands but in the hands of an omnipotent God. It encourages us to view our circumstances and the actions of others through the lens of God’s sovereignty and protection.
“What can man do to me?”… This declaration is not just a statement of belief but also a stance of defiance against fear. It’s a proclamation that with God as our helper, the threats and actions of people lose their power over us. Our perspective changes from one of vulnerability, to one of strength. Let this promise from God bolster your courage and faith. Today, stand firm in the assurance that no matter what you face, you are under the watchful care and mighty hand of God, where no earthly force can prevail against you.
So we may boldly say: “The LORD is my helper; I will not fear. What can man do to me?” (Hebrews 13:6).
Let’s Pray
Yahweh, thank you for giving me the weapons to fight evil people in this world. Father, alert me when evil descends. Humble me before you, so that I can call upon you to help me, instead of trying to fight evil with my willpower. God, let me embrace that You are faithful and that You will strengthen and guard me against negative people. Help me remember this fight isn’t me alone fighting, but my brothers and sisters around the world are also fighting evil. Remind me again and again that men can do nothing to me! You have already declared victory and the evil one and his friends are banished to hell forever! Thank you for giving us victory over sin and death. In Jesus’ name, Amen!
True Confession
Did you know true Confession is more than just admitting wrongdoing; it’s an acknowledgement of our need for God’s grace. When we confess our sins, we’re not informing God of something He doesn’t already know. Instead, we’re agreeing with Him about our sinfulness and expressing our desire for His forgiveness and cleansing.
Scripture says, God’s response to our confession is both faithful and just. He is faithful, meaning He will always forgive as He has promised. He is just, because Jesus Christ has already paid the penalty for our sins. This divine forgiveness is complete, covering every aspect of our sinfulness and purifying us from all unrighteousness.
Today, as you reflect on God’s forgiveness to your confession, take a moment to consider the personal significance. It’s an invitation to experience God’s boundless mercy and a call to live in the freedom that comes from His forgiveness. Let this promise encourage you to approach God honestly and humbly, trusting in His unfailing love and grace to make you whole again.
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).
Let’s Pray
Yahweh, I acknowledge and confess before You that I am a sinner, guilty and corrupt, prone to evil, and I have transgressed Your holy law. Lord, with heartfelt sorrow, I repent and deplore my offences! Please have compassion on me and remove my guilt and corruption. Grant me Your Holy Spirit, that I might put to death the sin that is within me. Father, I trust You for these graces based on the death and resurrection of my Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ. Amen.
Things God Hates
Today’s verse poses many questions. However, the question that needs to be answered is this; does God hate? According to this passage, He does, but what the text is saying is that these seven sins oppose God’s character which is love. Each item in this list represents a violation of godly character and a disruption to harmonious living. 1. Haughty eyes reflect pride, 2. Lying tongue opposes truth, 3. Hands that shed innocent blood go against the sanctity of life, 4. A heart devising wicked schemes undermines integrity, 5. Feet quick to rush into evil denote a lack of moral restraint, 6. A false witness who pours out lies corrupts justice, 7. One who stirs up conflict destroys community unity.
Proverbs 6:16-19, challenges us to cultivate virtues that contrast these detestable sins. We are called to humility, truthfulness, respect for life, integrity, moral discipline, honesty, and peace-making. These virtues are not just moral ideals; they reflect God’s character and are the blueprint for a life that pleases Him.
Today, as we ponder this Proverb about the 7 things God hates, let it be a mirror to our souls. We must strive to reject the behaviours that are in opposition to God’s character and embrace the virtues He cherishes. In doing so, we align ourselves more closely with His will, contributing positively to our spiritual growth and the well-being of our community.
There are six things the Lord hates, seven that are detestable to him: haughty eyes, a lying tongue, hands that shed innocent blood, a heart that devises wicked schemes, feet that are quick to rush into evil, a false witness who pours out lies and a person who stirs up conflict in the community. (Proverbs 6:16-19).
Let’s Pray
Yahweh, I confess that in the past I have done one or more of these sins that are an abomination to you. Father, I repent and renounce having a proud look, having a lying tongue, for hands that shed innocent blood, having a heart that devised wicked imaginations, and feet that be swift in running to mischief, for being a false witness and speaking lies, and sowing discord among my brothers and sister in the Lord, whether it’s in a church or group of people, slandering others that are fellow believers. Father, please forgive me and I repent! Help me to walk in the light, as Christ is the light. Lord, I thank you for restoring me and for throwing all my sins into the sea of forgetfulness, in Jesus’ name, Amen.
The Alpha and Omega
Israel Houghton has a song called Alpha and Omega. The titles “Alpha” and “Omega” represent the first and last letters of the Greek alphabet, symbolising that God is the beginning and the end of all things. He is not confined by the limitations of time and space. He existed before anything was made and will continue to exist eternally. In Him, the mysteries of the past, present, and future find their meaning.
Today’s verse reassures us of God’s unchanging and everlasting nature. In a world of constant change and uncertainty, the permanence of God’s presence provides a foundation of stability and hope. He is the same yesterday, today, and forever – the Almighty who governs the universe with unassailable power and authority.
Today, as you meditate on this scripture, it should fill you with awe and comfort. Whether facing life’s challenges or celebrating its joys, remember that you are in the hands of the Alpha and Omega. His eternal nature assures us that He is always in control, guiding history and our lives towards His ultimate purpose. In every situation, we can trust the One who is, who was, and who is to come.
I am the Alpha and the Omega,” says the Lord God, “who is, and who was, and who is to come, the Almighty.” (Revelation 1:8).
Let’s Pray
Yahweh, I have a sure hope in Your promise for my future. Father, because You are Alpha and Omega, outside of time, I can rest in Your blessed assurance because I trust in You alone for my salvation. As a sinner saved by Your gracious gift, You alone are my righteousness. No matter what happens, in this world, in my life, and in the lives of my loved ones, You are the great I AM. You are the end from the beginning. All things are in Your powerful hand and I can trust You. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
When Temptation Comes…
Growing up I always believed that church leaders weren’t tempted like us commoners. Understanding that temptation is common to all, provides a sense of solidarity. We are not isolated in our struggles; others have faced similar challenges and have overcome them. This knowledge can be a source of comfort and encouragement.
Today’s scripture highlights God’s faithfulness in our moments of testing and weakness. He knows our limits and promises not to allow us to be tempted beyond what we can bear. This doesn’t imply that we will avoid temptation, because to be tempted is not a sin, but it guarantees it’s possible not to give in. But if we do God will provide a “way of escape” that might come as an opportunity to remove ourselves from the tempting situation, the strength to say no, or the reminder of His truth in a moment of weakness.
Today, as you face trials and temptations, big or small, remember this promise in 1 Corinthians 10:13. Lean on God’s faithfulness. Look for His provision of an escape route and trust that He will give you the strength to endure every trial and temptation. Let this assurance mould your response to the tempter, knowing that with God’s help, you can overcome all of his attacks.
No temptation has overtaken you that is not common to man. God is faithful, and he will not let you be tempted beyond your ability, but with the temptation he will also provide the way of escape, that you may be able to endure it. (1 Corinthians 10:13).
Let’s Pray
Yahweh, I know that the trials and temptations of this world I face come from the devil. Father, I pray that You give me Your armour and protection against him and all the temptations I face today. God, I ask that I stand firm in Your strength and not rely on myself. In Jesus’ name, I pray, Amen.
Blessed!
Today’s verse invites us to reflect on a profound spiritual reality: the abundance of blessings we have received through our relationship with Christ.
In today’s scripture the phrase “every spiritual blessing” encompasses an immeasurable wealth of grace and favour. These blessings are not earthly or temporary; they are eternal, rooted in the heavenly realms, and anchored in our union with Christ. They include redemption, forgiveness, wisdom, peace, and the indwelling presence of the Holy Spirit.
These blessings are a testament to God’s love and generosity towards us. Our efforts or merit do not earn them but are freely given through Christ’s sacrificial love. We are invited to access and enjoy these blessings now, as a foretaste of the heavenly inheritance that awaits us.
Today, as we meditate on God’s truth, we can choose to live in the fullness of His blessings. Let’s embrace the richness of God’s grace, allowing it to shape our lives and perspectives. Every spiritual blessing in Christ is ours let’s live as heirs to this divine inheritance, demonstrating the beauty and richness of a life transformed by His grace.
Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly places in Christ. (Ephesians 1:3).
Let’s Pray
Yahweh, every good and perfect gift is a blessing from You and You have blessed me with so much. I ask that You use me to be a blessing to others who are in need or facing difficulties. Make me a channel of Your blessing, a channel through whom Your love and peace and joy and love flow out from You, through me, to others. May I be Your hands to bless others. May You guide my feet to places where I can go and be a blessing. May my speech be seasoned with salt so that I may speak words of comfort and encouragement and speak the truth in love. Give me the grace to be available when others are in need. In Jesus name, Amen.
In God’s Kingdom
With all that’s going on in this world, have you been wondering about God’s Kingdom? What it is, or where it is? The Bible says the kingdom of God is in the here and now, and thank God, we have a Kingdom that cannot be shaken! The Kingdom is simply God’s system and His throne. It’s His way of doing things. The Bible tells us that His Kingdom is righteousness, peace and joy in the Holy Spirit. Hallelujah!
In God’s Kingdom, when you give, it shall be given back to you, pressed down, shaken together and running over – this is not only talking about money. In God’s Kingdom, you can have an abundance of peace and prosperity in your spirit, mind and body, no matter what’s happening around you. And just like the verse says, His Kingdom cannot be shaken! That means, if the stock market goes down, God’s Kingdom is still strong. If the housing market goes down, God’s kingdom is still strong. If gas prices go up, God’s kingdom is still strong!
Today, you can live in God’s Kingdom that cannot be shaken, no matter what’s happening here on earth. Begin to thank God today for His Kingdom. Thank Him for His system of blessing in every area of your life. As you obey His Word and worship Him with a grateful attitude, you’ll embrace His Kingdom and walk in the abundant life He has for you!
“Therefore, since we are receiving a kingdom that cannot be shaken, let us be thankful, and so worship God acceptably with reverence and awe.” (Hebrews 12:28, NIV).
Let’s Pray
Yahweh, thank You for Your Kingdom of peace that lives amongst us. Father, thank You for Your system of blessing in my life. I praise You oh God for Your Kingdom that cannot be shaken by the things of this Earth, the economy, the prime minister or manifesto, biological games, or people with demonic intent. God, I open my heart to You and ask that You reveal Your truth to me, so that I can live in Your ways all the days of my life, in Christ’s Name! Amen.
The Christian Way
The Bible tells us that “in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose”. God’s good purpose for all Christians is that we are “conformed to the likeness of his Son”. Christians are to reflect Jesus’ perfection both in their character and in their body. If you have already accepted Jesus Christ as your Saviour and Lord, then God’s Spirit is already at work in you “to will and to act according to his good purpose”. This purpose will be completed at Jesus’ return.
Scripture tells us that Christians make progress toward becoming like Jesus when they strive to love others as he did. This type of love is called agape. Whenever you do something good for someone deserving or undeserving, you are acting on the power of agape. Christ is both the source and the Christian’s model of agape, for “God demonstrates his own love for us in that: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us”. Christians can love this way because “God has poured out his love into our hearts by the Holy Spirit” (Romans 5:5).
Today, when you use your gifts to make yourself appear superior to others, you are not gaining anything in the Christian life. But when you use your gifts to build others up, you are becoming more like Jesus!
I will show you the most excellent way (1 Corinthians 12:31).
Let’s Pray
Yahweh, thanks for your good purpose for me; thanks, Christ, for modelling God’s agape love to me; Holy Spirit, continue to deepen God’s love in me, until I attain Christ’s perfection. In Christ’s name, Amen.