Using the Enneagram as a Tool for Spiritual Growth

If you’ve been around Christian circles lately, chances are you’ve heard about the Enneagram (pronounced any-uh-gram). You may have been asked, “Hey, what’s your number?” Or maybe you’ve been typed by someone, and they’ve exclaimed, “Ugh, you’re such a 3!”

While dozens are flocking to the Enneagram, others are wondering, isn’t it just like every other personality test? Our culture is obsessed with BuzzFeed articles, personality tests, and Meyers-Brigg letters. Amidst this culture of quizzes and profiles, the Enneagram is often dismissed as “Just another personality test.” While many personality tests provide surface-level results that often aren’t worth our time, the Enneagram has a much deeper value. When used appropriately, the Enneagram can be used as a tool for tremendous spiritual growth.

So, what exactly is the Enneagram? It’s an ancient personality typing system with 9 different core types, designated with the numbers 1-9. Each type has a different set of nuances and variations as well. Here are the 9 types:

Type 1 – The Reformer

Type 2 – The Helper

Type 3 – The Achiever

Type 4 – The Individualist

Type 5 – The Investigator

Type 6 – The Loyalist

Type 7 – The Enthusiast

Type 8 – The Challenger

Type 9 – The Peacemaker

What’s different about the Enneagram is that it doesn’t focus as much on what you do, but rather, what drives you. So, for example, Type 1’s are driven by a desire to be good, and Type 2’s are driven by a desire to feel loved. What the Enneagram does so powerfully is shone a light on the motivations that drive us, that we are oftentimes unaware of.

In his book The Road Back to You, Ian Cron explains how each type is often drawn to particular sin patterns. For example, Type 5’s are drawn to greed, while Type 4’s are drawn to envy. By developing an awareness of our inclinations and motivations, we are able to intentionally take steps towards Jesus and the life He is calling us to. Psalm 119:59 echoes this truth. It says, “I have considered my ways and have turned my steps to your statutes.” In addition, Lamentations 3:40 says, “Let us examine our ways and test them, and let us return to the Lord.”

While some can use the Enneagram as a means of self-help and self-absorption, it can be a helpful tool when kept in its rightful place. The Enneagram was made by man, therefore it has flaws. Scripture is the only place we can go for unchanging absolute Truth. We must keep this in mind with every book, podcast, personality test, and sermon that we listen to or read. Everything should be viewed through the lens of Scripture, and if it does not agree with Scripture, then it is incorrect.

While not every book or teaching on the Enneagram is biblically accurate, there are several resources that provide tremendous help in spiritual growth based on your number. My caution is to hold up every resource to Scripture, understand that there is a nuance to the Enneagram and it is simply a guideline, and to use the Enneagram as a tool to grow closer to Jesus. If you are using the Enneagram and instead feel as though you are walking away from the truth of Scripture, I would urge you to stop or find a Biblical counselor to walk through the Enneagram with you.

So if you haven’t explored the Enneagram, I highly encourage you to do so! It’s very eye-opening and can be used as a great tool for spiritual formation. There are Enneagram tests online, but the results can vary based on how you answer different questions, which can be affected by your mood or any number of things. In my opinion, a better way to determine your type is to read through the type descriptions on The Enneagram Institute’s website. After reading through the types, you will most likely have a really good idea of which type you are. After discovering your type, continue to investigate your type. Use what you learn to walk closer to Jesus, falling hard on His grace, and continuing to be renewed in Him.

April 24, 2018May 19, 2018

When You Think of the Word Home, Does Jesus Come to Mind?

There is this certain sense of belonging, wanting to be known that lives inside each of us. We want the familiar state of being in a place where we feel safe, loved, and adored. For many, our memories are thrown back to the home we grew up. Scents of homemade cooking. Holiday celebrations. Laughter and giggles fill the room.

We long for THIS to stay with us all of the time.

And yet, this feeling eludes us.

Because we are not home yet.

In our text today found in 2 Corinthians 5:1-9, Paul encourages us not to fixate our eyes on the things of this world. Rather, remind ourselves that this place is not our home. Our temporal bodies where we reside are like a flimsy tent. Here today. Gone tomorrow. However, too often, we care too much about the here and now.

We focus on our flimsy tent, rather than our eternal dwelling. We fixate on skinny bodies, and how to look 10 (or more) years younger. We slather on our wrinkle cream and hope the bags under our eyes will dissipate. We long. We wish. Oh, how we desire to look and feel much better.

When we’re having a bad day and this world seems to engulf us, we must remind ourselves…we just ain’t home yet. When thinking of home, it’s much more than just a structure. For me, what’s most important is the people that abide within it. Now that I have two kids in college, I find myself longing for them to be home. The nest feels half-empty everytime that they go. Paul describes heaven not merely as a place. He describes heaven as being with the Lord…you see, it’s about the relationship.

Many of us feel at odds when we consider “What will happen when I die?” We don’t think longingly about heaven because we’re not intimate with Jesus right now. Instead of our future home bringing us comfort, it seems like a far-off land. We prefer to find our comfort in the things we can see with our own two eyes.

God has given us the Holy Spirit as a guarantee that we will go to heaven. If you don’t have this assurance, will you please send me a comment. We can be sure of where we’re going. “We walk by faith, not by sight” (2 Cor. 5:7).

When you think of the word home, does Jesus come to mind? Because really…when you get right to the point…he is the ultimate security blanket we can find.

April 23, 2018

How to Ask for Help When Your Life Is in Shambles?

No Christian has a perfect life even if they try hard to make you believe they have everything under control. A lot of Christians do not talk about their problems thinking it is not what a “perfect Christian” must do. I met a lot of nice people in different churches through the years and most of them never talked about their problems only their victories and their successes, which might have a tendency of making you feel less than perfect if you know what I mean!

You know in your heart, you are doing your best. You read the scriptures, go to church, take part in many things to help others, go to Bible studies, pray, worship and much more. And you start to ask yourself if you are the only one with your life in shambles.

I strongly believe that if some scriptures tell us to give God our burdens it is probably because He knew we were going to face a few in our lifetime, and some more than others.

God doesn’t give us more than what we can handle right? But in the meantime, we have to get through those difficult times and if you are surrounded by people who will not even admit they themselves are facing those hard times, how can you get help and will you even dare to ask for help?

Please do ask for help. Be the first to admit you are facing difficulties and you might be surprised how people will react. A lot of brothers and sisters in Christ were thought to keep their feelings inside. Sharing them is a sign of weakness or even worse, sharing your feelings is a true sign you are not doing what you must. Meaning you don’t pray enough and you don’t have enough faith. Sadly I heard that too many times, and this can have a huge impact on someone’s faith. They might feel so inadequate and so ridiculous that they will even leave the church or go into deep depression.

It is so true that words can kill. They do. They can lift you up or bring you down. We need to be careful how we use them.

I also discovered through my spiritual journey that we need to surround ourselves with non judgmental people. We sometimes have to let go of some of our friends, even more so if they are bringing us down most of the time.

What we rather need is people with big hearts and open arms. You will know who they are when you meet them. Your heart will feel the automatic connection. The tender eyes on that person’s face, will tell you it is time to share your burden with that friend in God. It doesn’t mean you stop asking God for guidance, it just means that you are still human and sharing with friends or sisters and brothers who will become good friends, is the way to a healthy life in Christ. We all need each other. Each and every one of us, will eventually go through something very difficult, and if you think you can get through it by staying alone all the time, you will eventually hit a brick wall and it will hurt real bad! That will be the “pride” in you crying out in pain. Let it cry! It needs to go anyway. Replace it with “confidence in God”.

Let go of all the doubts. Just share, cry, laugh and go on with the help of our beloved Father. He will guide you, only if you let Him. And while He is, your friends will be there to hold your hand. And as a bonus, after they’ve helped you, you too will be able to do the same for them, when they eventually need it!

This is what God wants for us. Help each other. Love one another. It’s that simple. Really!

-Smile.

April 23, 2018November 25, 2018

Miscarriages: Do We Really Mourn With Those Who Mourn?

Unless you have lost a child, you can never really sympathize with a woman who has suffered a miscarriage. It is a different kind of pain that a parent carries with them on a daily basis until they are able to reach some sort of acceptance or peace about it. Or perhaps we want to believe that they have either accepted the loss or gained peace because we do not want to ‘deal’ with that person. I do not believe that we do it out of selfishness- the reason is more complicated than that. How do you co-mourn when you did not ever meet the child? How do you offer up empty words of comfort when you know that the parent will not want to hear them? Who wants to hear: “Don’t worry, it’s all in GOD’S hands”, or “You will have another one, just have faith”, or even “Pray and ask GOD for strength”.

It has been nearly 34 years since the death of my brother, and I know that my mother has never truly fully healed from that. Jonathan was her first child and she carried him to term, but when he was taken out of her womb, he was stillborn. He may not have been a miscarriage, but he was still a life that was taken away before he got the chance to live. However many months you have carried that child in your womb, that connection is there. Whether you wanted that baby or not, that connection remains. So when you lose that child, a part of you seems to die with that child. Yes, you continue on with your life- you return to work, you eventually have more children (in some cases) and you raise them with all the love that you can give. However, you are not going to forget about that lost child. Every now and then, you wonder about the child, what they could have become, what their personality would have been like, who they would have resembled more. You dream of what could have been and, in some way, you even blame yourself for their death.

A mother’s womb is meant to be a place of security, but instead of producing life, it became a place of death. Perhaps you feel that you have failed as a woman, a wife, and a mother. The emotions that you go through are deep and painful, far deeper than we can ever imagine. Your thoughts are a place of darkness and woe. What can we, as the outsiders, really say to bring comfort?

As Believers, we are meant to rejoice with those who rejoice and to mourn with those who mourn. The truth is, we have become so wrapped up in our own worlds that we struggle to find the words to say, or just how to be around a parent who has just suffered a miscarriage. Many of us feel uncomfortable and awkward- do we pat your back in an effort to offer some physical comfort without ‘overstepping’? Do we quote scripture in an effort to explain away the tragedy and possibly downplay the pain that you are going through? Should we bring ready-made meals to lessen your worries? The question is, do these actions and words show you that we are really mourning with you? Some people will pretend that it didn’t happen, others will avoid you like the plague, worried that you are going to break down in front of them and embarrass them in public (it’s true). Others simply cannot handle seeing that amount of pain in others and will run, while others are simply insensitive and will offer up the same old useless words.

What can we do? What should we say? Can we hug you and let you lean on us when you’re weak? Can we cry with you, for your baby, the little being that we did not get to meet? Can we sit with you and listen as you tell us of your pain, your anger, and possibly the guilt that you feel? Will you provide us with your child’s name so that we may acknowledge his/her individuality? Can we sit with you in your silence, offering our presence as comfort? When ‘sorry’ will just not do, what can we say? We could never profess to understand your pain, it would be an injustice to pretend as though that life didn’t exist, and it would be insensitive to assume that you can ever replace your lost child with another one.

To every parent that has miscarried: at times we outsiders find it difficult to express our sadness for your loss. I personally mourn for every child lost, whether through miscarriage, abortion or other causes. While I cannot understand your pain because I have not experienced such a tragedy, there are many of us who want to truly mourn with you, to offer the comfort that only a person who is close with our LORD can offer. We would gladly take on some of your burdens to give you a moment’s rest from your deep pain. I speak to both the mothers and fathers- find a brother or sister in Christ and share that burden with them. Let them take on that burden in spirit so that you may find rest and eventually open yourself up to receive the comfort that Jesus wants to give you. Woman of GOD, you have suffered through a miscarriage, but that burden that you carry is not yours alone.

April 22, 2018July 22, 2020

Is Being a Virgin a Bad Thing?

Before the age of 19, I couldn’t have cared less about what people had to say about sex. That all changed, however, when I left home for college. My 19^th year was a tumultuous time for me: it was my first time away from home, I was struggling to appear adult-like while still holding onto the innocence of my previous years, and most importantly, I became a born-again Christian towards the end of that year.

I was not prepared for the culture that surrounded campus life. People around me were talking about sex, having sex, who they had sex with, who wanted to have sex with them… I was horrified. I couldn’t believe that people my age were sexually active (I come from a conservative family and hardly ever went out). During free periods, I used to sit among newly-made friends and listen wide-eyed as they openly spoke about their sexual exploits. I wouldn’t say that I felt left out, but I did feel quite naÃƒ¯ve. Oddly enough, up until the last few months of the first year in college, I didn’t hear much about sex. Nevertheless, it didn’t take me long to realize that I was uncomfortable with the topic of sex, but I didn’t want to come across as being judgemental (especially with being born-again), so I stuck it out. My reasoning was that Jesus Himself had sat down to dinner with prostitutes and taxpayers, so who was I to dissociate myself from them just because they were sexually active? Looking back, I can see that my reasoning was flawed, but it took me years to understand that. I essentially became the poster girl for 1 Corinthians 15:33: Do not be misled: “Bad company corrupts good character.” I was well on my way to being corrupted.

During my early 20s, I sought to convince myself that if I knew enough about sex, and was comfortable with it, then it wouldn’t irritate me and cause me much discomfort when people talked about it. I pushed myself out of my comfort zone, not understanding the peril that I was putting my soul into.

After a few years, I realized that no amount of sex talk would make me any more comfortable with it. I grew tired of speaking about the same things over and over again- how to spice up your love life with different sex positions, how kinky BDSM was, how irresistible Christian Grey was (I didn’t really think that- I just went with the flow), how empowering it was to be in control of your own orgasms with masturbation (something that I have never done) and how sex was totally natural and healthy, especially between two (or three, or more) consenting adults. I twerked along to catchy tunes with suggestive lyrics (all about sex in some form or another), and I danced with the ease of a seductress laying a trap for her prey (okay, I didn’t actually dance in public, but I did do it within the comfort and privacy of my own home). I had become as knowledgeable as an inexperienced person could be, loaded with ammunition to go out and ‘do the nasty’ if I so chose to. But I didn’t choose to. I was at war within myself and felt like a fraud, both as a Christian and a worldly- wannabe- person.

When you sin and do it repeatedly, the Holy Spirit starts to convict you of that sin in order to lead you to repentance. Sure, I was not having sex, but because I thought about it in its various forms, it was just as bad. It is amazing to me as to how I continued to talk and think about something that I truly was not comfortable with!

The Holy Spirit began to counter all of my worldly ways with the Word of GOD. I started to read the Bible more every day and to ask GOD to show me what areas of my life were displeasing to Him. You see, I had a deep yearning within me to get to know GOD, not because someone told me that it was the right thing to do, but because I needed to. I had received a taste of GOD’S presence once before and I wanted more. If you’re Christian, you will know that only the pure-hearted will see GOD. There was no way that I was going to draw near to Him with all the sexual immorality in my life! Needless to say, I repented of my sins and began to purify my mind with GOD’S Word. That meant cutting out secular music, erotic romance novels (not the clean and sweet type), other types of literature pertaining to sex, and refusing to talk about it unnecessarily. It was while removing these factors out of my life that I realized how accustomed I had become to surrounding myself with things of a sexual nature, especially when I still was not comfortable with it.

I will be 29 in about 2 months time. I have never had sex, let alone kissed a guy. Even with all the sex talk, I did not feel the need to date or have sex or even go around kissing guys. In fact, I find the act of kissing rather gross and unsettling. There are people that refuse to believe that I am a virgin and have never been kissed and that’s okay- I don’t expect anyone to believe me, and neither is it my concern. Do I think that I’m better than the non-virgins, especially the Christian ones? Certainly not, and neither do I go around judging people. You do not need me to tell you that sexual immorality is a sin- you already know that the wages of sin is death. I would, however, advise you to consult your Bible to see why you should abstain from sex until marriage. The major reason for me is because I know that I am the Temple of GOD. All other sins happen outside of the body, but when you have sex, you sin against your body. GOD hates any type of sin, whether outside of the body or against the body. What you need to understand is the impact of your sin in the spiritual realm. By sinning, you have basically told Satan: Open gates, come and get me. It is important to examine your own life and your relationship with GOD. Being truthful with yourself is the first step to destroying any strongholds in your mind.

My virginity has nothing to do with being forced. I chose to physically remain a virgin because I want to please GOD and I do not want to open up such doorways for Satan to afflict me. However, it can be said that for a few years, I could not have called myself a virgin due to sexually sinning in my mind. It was only when the Holy Spirit showed me the error of my thinking, that I repented and was forgiven- that sin no longer has any hold over me. Thus not only am I physically a virgin, but I am also a mental virgin (that sounds a bit odd-‘mental’- it’s as if I am calling myself crazy!). If it were up to society, I would have succumbed to peer pressure a long time ago and had physical sex with numerous partners by now. I thank GOD every day that at least some part of me held onto my values and abstained.

Ending Thought: If you are a virgin, then do not let anyone convince you that you are wrong by choosing to remain a one. It’s your choice and it’s your commitment to GOD. You are the only one who will need to give an account for your actions to GOD one day, so stop worrying about the opinions of others. By now you will have no doubt realized that anything contrary to GOD is going to get you into a load of trouble.

Now, if you are not a virgin but you have given your life to Jesus, do not feel condemned for your past choices. Jesus has redeemed you and you are a new creation. All you need to do is repent of your past sexual sins and then believe (key word here is believe) that you have been forgiven. Jesus is not condemning you and neither can anyone else condemn you. He called you for a reason, so get yourself right with Him and start living a life worthy of the calling on your life.

April 22, 2018January 15, 2024

These Wild Animals Will Make You Laugh Out Loud

Animals with a sense of humor showing off their hilarious side have been given the spotlight today.These photographs prove yet again that animals have a really cool sense of humor we only need to spot it and yeah probably have a good pair of lens handy too.

The best part about animals is that they’re totally unpredictable and therefore totally hilarious. From dozy cows, preaching cats, to a cheerful deer eating an apple, and many more, we’d like you to vote for your favorites, and if your pet has decided to act up, don’t forget to upload your submission to our list!

April 22, 2018January 15, 2024

A Prayer for My Stressed-Out, Hardworking Husband

No one gets a free pass from stressful times. As Christians, prayer and the Scriptures are our greatest weapons against this stress epidemic.

Father,

I praise You for my husband, Your unique creation. Please guard his heart and mind, Jesus. Protect him from temptation and fill him up with the good things he needs. You’ve promised to fill his soul with what he needs and I ask You to do just that.

You are the God of peace, Who heals all our ailments and cares for all those that love and trust You. Lord, You know the many pressures my dear husband has been facing, from both his work and from the family, and Father, I am concerned that it seems to be affecting his health. Lord, this additional stress seems to be making my husband irritable and I know that he is finding it increasingly difficult to sleep at night.

I know that You care about each of Your children and are interested in every area of our lives – and so I pray that You would ease the stress and pressure that seems to be mounting up in our lives and quickly remove it, and please Lord, help my husband to rest in You and to cast all His care upon You, day by day.

Lord, I pray that You would bless my husband’s work. That he would be diligent and prosperous. That You would give him wisdom and discernment. God, I pray You would give him the strength to walk the opportunities you provide.

Thank You, Lord for being there for us and I pray that You would hold us both in Your arms of love,

In Jesus’ name, Amen!

Bible Verses to Combat Anxiety and Stress

“I will lie down in peace and sleep, for you alone, O LORD, will keep me safe.” (Psalm 4:8, NLT)”

“Then Jesus said, “Come to me, all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you. Let me teach you, because I am humble and gentle, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke fits perfectly, and the burden I give you is light.” (Matthew 11:28-30, NLT)”

“I am leaving you with a gift–peace of mind and heart. And the peace I give isn’t like the peace the world gives. So don’t be troubled or afraid.” (John 14:27, NLT)”

“Now may the Lord of peace himself give you peace at all times in every way. (2 Thessalonians 3:16, ESV)”

“You keep him in perfect peace whose mind is stayed on you, because he trusts in you. Trust in the LORD forever, for the LORD GOD is an everlasting rock. (Isaiah 26:3-4, ESV)”

April 22, 2018July 22, 2020

You Need to Stop Pointing That Finger

Is God a Republican or a Democrat? We, as Believers, can be the most judgemental people. We tend to hold onto the belief that, because we are Christians, we have a right to judge each other (and Unbelievers). If those who are being judged do not agree with us, then we most likely end up Bible-bashing them: “Well, GOD said in chapter _ verse _ that you can’t do_, so you’re committing a sin! And it’s wrong! You’re probably going to hell for that you know.” Does this sound familiar to you? Perhaps you do not use those exact words, but it all boils down to the same thing, and that’s judging others when you do not have the right to do so.

Let’s delve into GOD’S Word, shall we? If we continue on from Matthew 7:1-5 and read verses 3-5, we see that Jesus did not mince His words when it came to the subject of judging. He even used the word hypocrite to describe the person that was intent on taking the speck out of his brother’s eye when in fact, he had a whole plank in his own eye. Think of it in this way: Jim has been accusing Alex of sexual immorality. Apparently, Alex has been sleeping with his girlfriend, Stacey. As Christians, this will not do- obviously. However, it turns out that Jim (who has been doing the finger pointing with great conviction) has been lustfully looking at a young lady from church. Tsk tsk, Jim. Now, what did Jesus say about that?

“But I say to you that whoever looks at a woman to lust for her has already committed adultery with her in his heart” (Matt 5:28).

Paul was an Apostle who knew just what to say about those of us who love to judge: And do you think, O man, you who judge those practicing such things, and doing the same, that you will escape the judgment of GOD? (Rom 2:3). No matter how much you try and justify yourself, GOD is still going to judge you. What you need to understand is that if GOD Himself did not send His Son to condemn us (John 3:17), why on earth are we doing it (did you see what I did there- on earth because we live on earth! Ha!)? So the question that you probably have now is: how do we tell/show the person that what they are doing is wrong? That they are disobeying GOD? It’s simple really. If you are not like Jim, meaning that you yourself are not living in sin, then you can proceed to Galatians 6:1: Brethren, if a man is overtaken in any trespass, you who are spiritual restore such a one in a spirit of gentleness, considering yourself lest you also be tempted.” Paul says that you need to be spiritual, and the only way to be spiritual is to immerse yourself in GOD’S Word daily. Study His Word and by faith, apply it to your life. He also says that you are to be gentle with that person- which, by the way, is one of the fruits of the Holy Spirit. You cannot be gentle if you do not have love, and if you do not understand what love is (which is more of an action and not just a feeling), then study 1 Corinthians 13:1-13. Lastly, you had better watch yourself- you wouldn’t want to be helping that person, only to fall into the same temptation. Always pray before you do anything- it will save you a lot of drama.

Okay, so we have covered nearly all aspects of judging within the church (by church, I do not mean a building but the body of Christ- all of us who profess Jesus as the Son of GOD), but there is one last aspect to consider. What did Paul mean in 1 Corinthians 5:11? But now I have written to you not to keep company with anyone named a brother, who is sexually immoral, or covetous, or an idolater, or a reviler, or a drunkard, or an extortioner- not even to eat with such a person. This sounds like Paul is being quite judgemental, doesn’t it? Now we know that the Bible does not contradict Itself (contrary to popular belief- that’s another topic!), so what could Paul mean? Let’s go back a few pages and take a look at Romans 16:17-18: Now I urge you, brethren, note those who cause divisions and offenses, contrary to the doctrine which you learned, and avoid them. For those who are such do not serve our Lord Jesus Christ, but their own belly, and by smooth words and flattering speech deceive the hearts of the simple.” Remember, bad company can corrupt good character (1 Corinthians 15:33). These people, who profess to be Christian and yet go against the Word of GOD, you must understand that they cannot be who they say they are. According to Luke 6:43-45, a tree is known by its fruit. Therefore as Christians, we are to produce fruits of the Holy Spirit. Those who are of the devil (whether by choice or ‘default’), will produce evil fruit in accordance with the deeds of the devil. My advice to you? Just walk away- do not concern yourself with their way of living- GOD will sort it out. Pray for them yes, but do not, I repeat, do not get involved with them in any way. We need to realize that GOD’S Word is absolute- if we are told not to do something, then we must not do it. If you are happy with taking GOD’S Word as is, great. However, there are some that want to know why. If you want to know why we cannot do a certain thing, then you better start reading and studying the Bible to find out, and if you cannot find it, then just ask GOD- but you better believe that He will do it, or else you’re being rather double-minded (James 1:5-8).

What about judging non-Believers? One piece of scripture will clear that up in a jiff: For what have I to do with judging those also who are outside?

Do you not judge those who are inside? But those who are outside GOD judges” (1 Cor 5:12-13). Pretty straightforward isn’t it? We, as Christians, have no right to judge a non-Believer. We know that GOD is more than capable of doing that so put it out of your minds. Your duties are to obey and love GOD, study His Word, pray without ceasing, live by faith and not by sight, and love one another. Don’t forget about going out to spread the Gospel, whether within your own community or jumping across the sea to reach those who are lost.

Ending Thoughts: Do not speak evil of one another, brethren (James 4:11). If you have nothing good to say, then do not say it at all.

April 21, 2018January 15, 2024

Why ‘Coming Out’ as a Christian at work is so very hard?

Dave is a competent young professional. He looks worn and defeated. In talking about his workplace, he said that bickering, criticism, and lack of support for Christians had spread through his organisation – a workplace he used to love. Now, he said, “The tension here is so thick I hate going to work.” he says.

Coming Out of The Christian Closet

Almost everyone has a story to tell about a bad boss, a bizarre colleague or a terrible place to work. However, as a Christian based digital media website, we have heard tons of stories of religious discrimination in the workplace.

We are blessed to have freedom of religion in the UK; (these rights are part The Civil Rights Act of 1964 and applies to freedom from religious discrimination, accommodation, and hostile work environment matters in both public and private workplaces) but recently the attacks upon Christians has increased, and people have lost their jobs and closed their businesses as a result of standing up for their belief. Practicing Christianity at the office or even sharing beliefs seems to touch on nerves, hurt feelings, and ignite high-levels of anger as well as passion in non believers. And it seems like the workplace climate may be getting worse: the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) considered 3,721 religious discrimination complaints in 2013, up from 1,709 in 1997.

“Secular ideology is so pervasive in the professional environment that we often have a difficult time fitting into the culture of the office. Many of us simply “go with the flow,” choosing to participate in the promotion of secular thought and values rather than risk being ostracized and ridiculed by defending the absolute truth of Christianity and the moral certitude of the distinctively Christian vision.”

You know what we’re talking about. Do you pray before lunch with a bunch of clients? Do you invite a new friend to church? Do you quote an appropriate Scripture during a dinner party? Do you hand someone your newsletter (FaithMD)?

However, a poppy is not just for Christmas, and a Christian is not just for the weekend.

But what does it really look like to unite our jobs and faith? After all office politics can be cruel and unfair and you’ve got to play the game”¦ haven’t you? We mean it’s easier to just to pretend you’re out and avoid that phone call”¦ isn’t it? When you’re putting in that expenses claim”¦ everyone creams a little off the top, so why lose out? And when there’s no holiday left to take but you need a day off, it’s easier to call in sick, isn’t it”¦? After all the world didn’t come to an end. So, what’s the big deal?

It’s sin — that’s the big deal.

Staying Godly in a Godless Workplace

The following are a few suggestions as to how to practice your faith at work.

Dont’s

You don’t need to open a beauty salon called “A Cut Above” or a coffee shop called “He Brews” or have to wear a cross or leave a Bible on your desk for others to know that you’re a Christian.
Don’t Engage in Gossip. Even if your workplace only has five employees, it’s almost a given that at least some of them will engage in gossip from time to time.
Don’t Be a Hypocrite. One of the greatest hindrances to the gospel’s effectiveness is Christians who act one way at church and another way elsewhere. If you make your employer a billion dollars yet disgrace Jesus in the process, you’re a failure.
Don’t Hide Away. Our right relationship isn’t just with God, but it’s a right relationship with the world around us.
Don’t lie in the Workplace – Ever. This seems self-evident for Christians, but that’s where we’re under our greatest temptation.

Do’s

Be Righteous.The best witness of your faith is to live it. Treat others as you would like to be treated, be kind, and do everything with love. This doesn’t mean that you have to meekly accept any wrongs at work or to avoid. “If the salt loses its saltiness, it’s good for nothing.”
Be Hopeful. People of hope don’t lie about the reality of the world, but they are pressing on toward a new day. They inject positive direction in every dark situation.
Be Faithful. Christians can explain their faith to others confidently and give attractive examples of the Christian life—even in just doing their jobs well. There’s no such thing as a private faith.
Be About God’s Business and Know God’s Word. After all the Bible is more a love letter than it is a rulebook, more a reliable compass than it is a measuring rod, more a liberating gift than a heavy restraint.
Be Merciful. Your ability to walk rightly, is not a prowess gained. It is a gift supplied by a loving, merciful God who is shaping us into the image of his Son.
Be Prayerful. There will be people who do not like you for any number of reasons. Make it a practice to pray for the people that don’t seem to like you, who you don’t really get along with, or who just always seem to have something snarky to say to or about you.
Be Relational. When you are asked, or ordered, to do something that causes turbulence in your Christian conscience, ask questions.
Be Genuine. People of faith are pure in their motives and dealings with others. They don’t put on airs or sniff the air for hints of sinful behavior.
Be Businesslike, But Not All Business. Have a laugh. Not only does laughing relieve stress, but it improves teamwork. Laughing on the job is not wasting time. It’s keeping work in its proper perspective and treating colleagues like human beings instead of tools.
Be a Risk Taker. I realise this somewhat contradicts some of the last points, but the Christian life rests in that tension between risk and prudence. Here’s a hint, safe will always be boring, risks will always be exciting, and closets will always be dark.
Never Forget Who You’re Really Working For Ultimately. Jesus Christ is our boss, and all our actions on the job should bring glory and honor to Him. God planted us in our current job for a particular reason. “And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose” (Rom. 8:28).

April 20, 2018January 15, 2024

Are You the Sheep of God’s Pasture?

The beautiful parable that Christ gave of the one lost sheep, of the shepherd that left the ninety and nine to go in search of that which was lost, illustrates the care of the great Shepherd.

He did not look carelessly over the sheep of the fold, and say, “I have ninety and nine, and it will cost me too much trouble to go in search of the straying one; let him come back, and I will open the door of the sheepfold and let him in, but I cannot go after him.” No… He counts and recounts the flock, and when he is certain that one sheep is lost, he leaves the ninety and nine within the fold; however dark the night, however perilous and unpleasant the way, however long and tedious the search, he does not weary, he does not falter, until the lost sheep is found.

But when it is found, does he act indifferently? Does he call the sheep, and command the straying one to follow him? Does he threaten and beat it, or drive it before him, recounting the bitterness and anxiety that he felt on its account? No; he lays the weary, exhausted, wandering sheep on his shoulder, and … returns it to the fold.

The shepherd’s gratitude finds expression in melodious songs of rejoicing, and heavenly choirs respond to the shepherd’s note of joy…

For “joy shall be in heaven over one sinner that repenteth, more than over ninety and nine just persons which need no repentance.”

Jesus says, “I am the good shepherd, and know my sheep, and am known of mine” (John 10:14).

Just as a shepherd of the earth knows his sheep, so does the God know His flock that is scattered throughout the whole world…

“And ye, my flock, the flock of my pasture, are men, and I am your God, saith the Lord God” (Ezekiel 34:31).

However low, however, elevated we may be, whether we are going through adversity or in the sunshine of prosperity, we are God’s sheep, the flock of His pasture, and under the care of the chief Shepherd.

April 20, 2018July 22, 2020

I’m an Atheist and I Feel Like I’m Smarter Than Religious People

It used to be that teens and young adults would say, “Yeah I’m an atheist, I’m all about facts and science, my parents hate it, but they’ll just have to get over it. This is who I am.”

Now tell me, how in the world are people not finding any facts within a book that’s sixty-six chapters long? Not to mention study Bibles, have you seen those things? They are humongous and full of extra historical context and Biblical meaning. Young people (myself included) once claimed atheism because we were trying to seem dark or edgy, we really didn’t actually think we were atheists, we just stopped paying attention to God!

Our God is not social media, our God is not whatever is trending on Netflix, our God is, well, God.

Now that we have grown out of that phase, not caring what people think of us, we see more and more people millennial age or younger that are labeled as the new “kings of cool” because they profess Jesus as their savior. Our God is not social media, our God is not whatever is trending on Netflix, our God is, well, God. People on social media platforms have started arguments in which they claim “God is not real,” only to have Christians boldly proclaim the opposite. Despite either getting shunned or ganged up on by trolls, those sticking to their guns are seen as the rebels to those lurking and watching the back and forth action.

Hollywood knows where this is going too; with big films like I Can Only Imagine and Paul Apostle Of Christ making waves in the movie business, it’s only a matter of time before the mainstream media hypes up its popularity. Or, they might just try and ignore how much people like these movies and do their best to cover it up with something worldly, you really never know with them.

It’s trendy right now to be politically incorrect and against the current culture because people are sick of doing what they always have done; it’s not working for them anymore. The vast majority who are sticking to the norm, are seen as “sleeping sheep that just need to be red pilled.” The same goes with following God; people want more out of their lives than just the day to day, they want a life with purpose and meaning. They know God can give them that.

So if you see a bunch of people saying they’re “atheists” just to be cool, tell them that they need to check out social media more often, the rebels are the Christians.

April 20, 2018July 22, 2020

KEEPING GOD in OUR DAILY LIVES

How many of us can truly say that this is how we feel? Do our souls yearn for GOD in the night? Do our spirits long for Him in the morning? Or have our busy lives taken away the pleasure of being with the Almighty?

Life has a sneaky way of drawing our attention away from GOD and instead focusing it on everything else- our finances, the well-being of our children, getting good grades in school, trying to keep a dying relationship alive… We put so much attention on living a life that we push GOD out of our daily lives and put Him into a closed box (in our minds) that we only open up on specific occasions such as church on a Sunday, prayers for a sick person or even a financial difficulty. Once we’re done, we neatly put Him back in that box, ready for the next outing. That is not how it is supposed to be for us as Believers!

Proverbs 3:5-6 tells us to trust in Him with our whole hearts and to not try and understand things in our own way. If we would just acknowledge Him in all that we do, He will lead us down the right paths of our lives. In order for Him to lead us, we need to give up control over our own lives. That means humbling ourselves before Him and seeking Him in every situation. When we accepted Jesus as the LORD and Saviour of our lives, we ceased to belong to our selves; we were purchased by the Blood of Jesus and have become the Temple of GOD (Romans 8:9 & 1 Corinthians 6:20). This means that the Holy Spirit dwells within us- the minute we were born-again, the Holy Spirit entered us in accordance with the promise that Jesus made in John 14: 15-17.

What does this mean for us? It means that we can no longer go on living as we did before. It means that in order to know what GOD has planned for our lives (Jeremiah 29:11), we need to seek Him- Let us draw near to GOD with a sincere heart and the full assurance that faith brings (Hebrews 10:32).

We all have a part to play within the Body of Christ, but to be an active member, we need to seek GOD daily and keep Him in our lives. You must remember that we have an adversary- the devil- who will do all that he can to keep you from fulfilling your GOD-given purpose. There are people waiting for you to show them the love of Christ, to give them the Truth. When we one day meet GOD, what do you want Him to say? ‘My child, you have done well’ or ‘Why did you not obey Me?’

Make a choice right now to keep GOD in your daily life, to seek Him in the morning, to end your day with Him. Doing so will bring you closer to Him and closer to your purpose.

Ending Thoughts: Romans 12:2 commands us to not be like the rest of the world, that we must let the Word of God direct our thoughts and actions. In Hosea 4:6 GOD says that His people are destroyed for their lack of knowledge. This knowledge comes from His Word, not just reading His Word but studying it and meditating on it. Only then can we know the will of GOD for our lives, and only then can we get to know Him personally.

April 19, 2018July 22, 2020

Coping with Depression

Some people have never had to fight Depression, but let me tell you Depression is real and unbearable. Depression can creep up on you and linger without a person realizing what exactly is making them depressed. To be honest, I have been dealing with some Depression lately but I know partly where mine is coming from. My youngest daughter is getting married soon and will be moving far way; her husband is in the military. In my eyes she is too young, she will always be my baby girl. The thought of not seeing her every day or the thought of her being in some strange place frightens me. She is moving to a place she doesn’t know, but a place I know way too well. When I got married to my husband, he was stationed on the same base as my daughter’s future husband is. Funny how life replays itself.

I told my daughter she was copying me; marrying a military man and moving to the same base I moved to. Now I know what my mother must have been going through. When you are young you don’t think about what others may be going through, like you do when you get older. I guess that is why Depression creeps up on us older people too.

We must really look where Depression stems from in order to overcome it. Satan works hard to hinder the lives of Christians and those that serve God in any way possible. He wants us to become unproductive. He wants to beat us down where we feel we are not fit for anything. When we realize that God can help us overcome this, Depression, that we are able to fight it easier. God has helped me overcome things that have been difficult to deal with many many times. I know that I was able to overcome those situations by relying more on God. Relying on God helped my faith and showed me to put my trust fully in him. It was then, that I was able to overcome those battles that Satan threw at me. Keep in mind that praying is the best tool in helping us with any life struggle. Praying not only once a day, but several times a day. Pray when you get up, when you are in the shower when you are driving, we you have a break at work, when you get home when you are lying on the couch, when you eat, when you go to bed, anytime you need God, pray.

Praying to God can help you in so many ways. It can relieve your stress, help you overcome Depression and help you calm your nerves and relax. Studies have been shown to prove this. Praying helps your brain. So let God help you in any struggle that you may be facing. Realize it is not God that is causing you stress, but the Devil himself. Call out to God and he can help you overcome. If you need a listening ear, I’m here.

April 17, 2018April 17, 2018

Humility

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April 17, 2018July 22, 2020

Biblical Quotes and Ways to help you Overcome Rejection

We all at some point in our lives get to deal with the spirit of rejection. When the feeling of loneliness and rejection creeps in we tend to roll back into our cocoons and hide from the outside world. The Bible states that “If the world hates you, keep in mind that it hated me first. “John 15:18.When you are on the verge of giving up, the word of God tells you to cast all your worries and cares to God for he cares about you. Rejection crushes your self-esteem and fights your life’s purpose and this can deprive you the chance to enjoy the Love of God. There are several signs of rejection to look out for.

1. Trying to fit in the society

Have you at some point tried to fit in or have had the urge to be accepted by friends, peers, and family? When the contrary happens you can get bruised psychologically and your spirit gets crushed in the process. The word of God which is a healing balm tells us that the He is close to the brokenhearted. Seek Him wholeheartedly for you can never drift away from his love.

2. Finding fault with God

Does your physical appearance or social status lead you to blame God? You were created in His likeness and you’re fearfully and wonderfully made. Deuteronomy 14:2 says “You have been set apart as holy to the Lord your God, and He has chosen you from all the nations of the earth to be his own special treasure. “What an assurance that the Lord treasures you! Start loving and appreciating yourself and you’ll find every reason to thank God for you’re an awesome creation.

3. Living in isolation

The tendency to isolate yourself from the outside world is a red flag that something is wrong or things aren’t heading at the right direction. Isolation may lead to suicidal thoughts and to harbor them in your mind gives the enemy an opportunity to manipulate you. Isolation can also lead to anxiety and the Bible tells us that we should not be anxious about anything. Make a habit of reading the word of God for the renewal of your mind.

Rebellion

The book of 1Sam15:23 states that, rebellion is as the sin of witchcraft. When you fail to submit to authority it will always land you in trouble. Align yourself with Gods will and learn to submit to the Holy Spirit. He’s your helper and you should allow him to guide you into the ways of righteousness.

Where do you derive your identity from? Is it from your job, family, and friends? Your identity should always come from the Lord. Read the word of God to get a clear direction on what the Bible says about you. The word says that we are made joint heirs with Christ. Isn’t this confirmation great? Yes, it is.

All in all, the greatest way to overcome the demon of rejection is to solve your identity crisis. Let your identity come from the Lord alone. He calls us His sons and heirs and we should always rejoice in his presence. The minute you will identify who you are and allow the Holy Spirit to take full control, your life will make a turnaround, your self-esteem will move a notch higher and you’ll align with your purpose in life.

Draw closer to God and He will draw closer to you. Meditate on His word day and night and set time to pray. Be happy, feel loved and appreciated God loves you.

April 17, 2018July 22, 2020

Did you know that 750,000 of Youths are Into Gambling?

Imagine taking risks on things you’re not sure of? Why have the young people decided to throw caution to the wind? Could the reason behind gambling be provoked by lack of guidance and mentorship? Come to think of this; how will it be living in this world where the youth are non-existence.The bible is very firm about gambling and condemns this vice.

Proverbs 28:22 says, Greedy people, try to get rich quick and don’t realize they’re heading for poverty.

There was nothing traumatizing like having a relative who spends all his entire youthful life gambling. He chose to throw caution to the wind and the advice that he was given down the drain. He gambled with every single cent he had, lived a miserable life but fortunately got help and he’s a changed man.

Want to know how I feel about it? This is the reason why I wrote this post to give you a leeway on how to tame the youths in a Godly way from gambling and I promise you that I’ll do my best to help you tame this vice.

Why would anyone play a game of chance with the mentality of getting rich instantly? The Bible tells us that the Lord will supply our needs according to his riches in glory. When you gamble you erase the trust you have in God.

Proverbs 13:11 says, dishonest money dwindles away, but whoever gathers money little by little makes it grow.

Our youths are wallowing in the deep waters of ignorance and allow the enemy to torment them with the mentality of getting rich by placing a bet. The devil is a liar.

Proverbs 28:19 says, Those who work their land will have abundant food, but those who chase fantasies will have their fill of poverty.

Our youths have become too lazy to work and that’s why they have opted for gambling to satisfy the hunger for getting rich quickly. What if they don’t have an income to sustain the vice? They commit crimes to sustain their addiction. Crimes like petty theft and break-ins are always reported highly in areas where gambling is exercised. The Bible tells us to train a child in a way he should go and when he grows up he will not depart from it.

1 Timothy 6:9-10 Those who want to get rich fall into temptation and a trap and into many foolish and harmful desires that plunge people into ruin and destruction. For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil. Some people, eager for money, have wandered from the faith and pierced themselves with many griefs.

This word is very powerful and you can use it to win that soul that is running away from the love of God. Do it lovingly quoting these verses and save them from the wrath of the Almighty God and grief as quoted.

Some youths can be so adamant about letting go of this vice but approaching it lovingly and in a Godly way will make all the difference.

How to deal with a gambling addiction

Recognize and admit you have a problem. Healing commences the minute you admit you need help. Once you identify the problem, it’s very easy to tackle it in the best way possible.
Understand the aftermath of your gambling. Gambling can and will always lead to depression, anxiety, and suicide.
Be sincere about your gambling.

We all want to be free from depression, anxiety, substance abuse and anti-social disorders. It all starts with the mind. You admit, confess and accept that you have a problem that needs to be addressed and you’ll be free. Having somebody to hold you accountable is highly advisable.

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