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Beginning a New Relationship? Here’s What You Should Take Note of

It’s a moment everyone has dreamed of – the moment where everything fits together perfectly, sparks fly, and everything seems to be going right between you and your new official partner. The beginning of a romantic relationship can feel magical, dreamy… But we have to admit, also pressurizing and stressful at times.

After all, no matter how you got to this point, it’s the start of something new and unknown. It has massive stakes, and we’re all at some point worried that we’ll mess it up. We certainly don’t want to ruin things with Mr. or Mrs. Right. 

Well, if you want to feel much more assured that you’re starting things right with the love of your life, here are some simple things you should take note of. Not only will these help you make sure that both you and your partner are on the same page, but they’ll also tell you if you’re ready to be in a relationship in the first place. There’s not a moment to lose, so let’s dive straight into it. 

History belongs in the past 

There’s no doubt you’ve got an interesting history, especially if this is not your first relationship. Your emotional travels have brought you far and wide, but it’s time to leave the baggage behind. Carmelia Ray, a celebrity matchmaker, notes that in her over 25 years of experience, the last thing singles want to hear about on a first or second date is their partner’s past relationships. 

In response to that, she advises that you should keep focused on the now, getting to know the current date more, and locking the ghosts of the pasts away for a later time. After all, you want this relationship to be a chance to start afresh – and that means keeping the past relationship fears, negative experiences and concerns away for now. The same goes for your partner, so don’t pry either! It’s a can of worms best opened when your relationship has become more mature. 

The more vulnerable, the better

Culture today insists on being a strong and independent individual, but in a relationship, being vulnerable is actually a good thing. According to Ray, opening up to your partner helps to make your connection that much deeper and stronger, building up a more solid bond. 

It’s also a sign to show your partner that you trust them, which can be very encouraging. After all, successful relationships are built on mutual, shared trust that enables both parties to do life together seamlessly. Without this trust, negative emotions like fear, doubt, and resentment are more likely to breed. 

Listening goes a long way

As much as you love sharing about your day with your partner, remember to take time to listen as well. It’s not just hearing what they say, but being fully present when they are sharing their thoughts and feelings. That way, you can respond appropriately or have a meaningful discussion. 

Moreover, it tells your partner that they are loved, making them feel appreciated for who they are. It cements their position in your life as someone you care about, and that can help create trust, strengthening your relationship from the inside out. 

Show, not tell

It’s always comforting to hear your partner talk about a future with you in it, such as making holiday plans, talking about living with each other, or even achieving a long-term goal together. It makes you feel like your relationship is a hundred percent a done deal, and your partner is in for the long haul. 

However, beware that talk is just empty until there’s action. We’re not saying you have to wait for your partner to actually fulfill all the promises, but rather, we’re asking you to make sure that their actions are consistent with what they say they feel. Have they introduced you to their best friends? Have they told their family about you? Are they working towards being financially stable? These are markers that show your partner actually means what he or she says, and are not making empty promises. 

Clingy is not cute

Yes, you love your partner and want to spend all day and all week with them. Especially in the ‘honeymoon’ period where a relationship is new, couples tend to spend a lot of time with each other. Here, some jealousy can actually be considered quite healthy, according to Ray. But if you’re constantly demanding for attention, calling your partner, texting them, or guilt-tripping them when they spend time away from you”¦ not so much. 

The fact is that a needy partner is stressful to handle and takes up a lot of time and energy that is almost inhuman. It might even cause your partner to want to step back for breathing space, which is not a good sign at the start of a potentially lifelong relationship. As such, take it easy! You had it in you to be single all the while leading up to this relationship, so resist the voice that tells you that you can’t live life to the fullest when you’re by yourself. 

Resumes belong in the workplace

A big pet peeve for many people? When their partners brag about themselves, according to Ray. It’s understandable why many people feel the need to do it, as it boosts self-esteem, and perhaps even fulfills the need to impress the partner. 

Of course, achievements are to be celebrated and acknowledged, but most of the time, bragging incessantly has the effect of firstly, boring your partner and secondly, giving off the impression that you’re a self-absorbed individual. You really don’t have to state every single one of your accomplishments and awards, especially if your partner has made it clear that they’re into you. Leave the list behind, and instead, work towards having genuine and fun conversations. 

Comparison is toxic 

If you find yourself constantly comparing your current partner to other partners or other relationships, you should put the brakes on that behavior. People are all different, with different quirks, talents, and flaws. It’s the same with relationships – every relationship has a different dynamic. As such, comparing any of these won’t do you any good, and can instead bring you down. 

Especially in today’s age of social media, it’s tempting to keep comparing your partner and your relationship to those you see online. However, again, that is not beneficial to anyone. In fact, no one is perfect, so you’re setting yourself up for inevitable disappointment! Remember also that social media usually only shows the good parts of a relationship, so don’t be disheartened if you hit a bump in the road. It really is perfectly normal, and it’s a chance to grow individually and as a couple, too.

Before you go and get started, it’s good to note that these pointers are not so much a list of boxes to check off. Rather, they are but a few topics you might want to bring up with your new partner to make sure you’re both ready for the start of something new. Additionally, this review on Her Aspiration will help you to learn more about your potential partner. That way, you can have a fuss-free, smooth-sailing new beginning of what could be the grandest adventure of your life. 

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Slam The Door Shut On Fear

If you know me, you would know that one thing that really gets to me is christians that operate on fear as opposed to faith. I declare so many people today are living with less than God’s best, because they’ve allowed fear to creep in and take root in their lives. Fear is the number one negative emotion, and the greatest weapon the enemy uses to try to hold us back. Fear is not from God. Scripture tells us that fear brings torment. Over a hundred times we are told to “fear not.” It’s designed to paralyse us and keep us from God’s blessings.

I’ve got good news! God-given faith is greater than your fear. His power in you is greater than any power that comes against you. Hallelujah! In order to walk in His power, you have to close the door on the enemy, the enemy can’t have access to your life unless you open a door and give him access. That’s why we have to be careful about what we watch, what we listen to, what we read, what we say and who we hang with. When we open ourselves to fear, we give the enemy opportunity.

Today, if you’ve allowed fear to steal from you in any area of your life, you can be free, you can be finished with fear. Conquering the enemy starts by making the choice to close the door on fear, and instead, meditate on God’s promises and His sacrifice. For the Word says we overcome by the blood of the Lamb and the word of our testimony! Let His truth and what He has done for you sink down into your heart. Declare it out of your mouth. Let God set you free by praising Him, and watch Him lead you into victory as you close the door on fear!

“Do not give the devil an opportunity to work.”

(Ephesians 4:27, ISV)

Pray With Me
Yahweh, I come to You today declaring that I am finished with fear. Father, thank You for giving me power, love and a sound mind. I declare I will stand  on Your promises and share all You have done for me, because that will make me overcome fear and other negatives in my life. Fill me with Your peace and joy today, as I move forward in victory with You, in Jesus’ Name! Amen.

Facts

The numbers don’t lie: A lot of us are living in fear. And we’re afraid of things we can’t necessarily control. An October 2017 survey by Chapman University indicated that more than a half of people in the U.S. are either “afraid” or “very afraid” of government corruption, health care reform and pollution of oceans, lakes and rivers, the top three fears of Americans today. Nearly half of people are afraid the U.S. will be involved in another world war.

According to a March Gallup poll, 40 percent of people worry “a great deal” about another terrorist attack happening in the U.S. And although there is between a one in 5 million and one in 20 million chance of dying in a plane crash, and a one in 45,808 chance of dying in a terrorist attack, those fears loom large in our collective psyche.

What do fear and anxiety feel like?

When you feel frightened or seriously anxious, your mind and body work very quickly. These are some of the things that might happen:

  • Your heart beats very fast — maybe it feels irregular
  • You breathe very fast
  • Your muscles feel weak
  • You sweat a lot
  • Your stomach churns or your bowels feel loose
  • You find it hard to concentrate on anything else
  • You feel dizzy
  • You feel frozen to the spot
  • You can’t eat
  • You have hot and cold sweats
  • You get a dry mouth
  • You get very tense muscles
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Equipped for the Journey: Walking In The Footprints Of Jesus Christ

Growing up, I was the smallest boy in class. I used to want to be tall like some of the others. Did you know that when you compare yourself to others or wish you were like someone else, it’s like saying God didn’t do a good job with you? You’re actually saying, “God, why did You make me sub-par? Why did You make me less than the others?”

Realise today, God didn’t make anyone inferior. He didn’t make any person second class. You are a masterpiece! You are fully loaded and totally equipped for the race that’s been designed for your life! Say to yourself “I may not look like someone else, or have the job that someone else has, but that’s okay. Nobody will ever be a better me.”

Today, let your attitude be, “I’m anointed to be me. I’m equipped to be me!” Remember, it’s easy to do what you are equipped to do. Don’t fall into the trap of trying to be like someone else. Accept who God made you to be, and embrace the good things He has prepared for you!

“I will praise Thee; for I am fearfully and wonderfully made”¦”

(Psalm 139:14, KJV)

Pray With Me
Yahweh, thank You for making me, me. Father, thank You for equipping me so I can fulfil my destiny. God, today, I choose to focus on what You’ve placed in my hand, knowing that as I am faithful to You, You will direct my steps. I bless You and praise You for who You are, in Jesus’ Name! Amen.

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Why is it so Important to Read the Bible?

With over 66 books, 40 different authors, in 3 different continents, over a span of 1500 years the Bible stands firm generation after generation. With so many different characteristics it serves as a testimony to the one unifiying message of God’s love and redemption for mankind. Having been studied by thousands of people over centuries, there is still no amount of wisdom or knowledge that could match the contents of this one book.

When I was younger my mum MADE me read my bible in the mornings. It’s not that I didn’t like reading it, it was just that to me it was like a chore I just had to do, to get my mum off my back. But today, it is the source of my strength and comfort in my everyday life and I am grateful for that early exposure to it. I can still remember my mum making me memorise scripture on Saturday’s, which to this day are still stuck in my mind (If you are Indian, you can relate to this!).

Many times, before I gave my life to Christ, I asked myself why it was even important to read the bible? It was just words on a page written so many years ago. The stories were kinda nice but I’d heard them all before over and over again in Sunday School. After all, I was the preacher’s kid.

But now, whenever I find spare time my only thought is to listen to a podcast or do some bible journalling or dig deep into a passage. Don’t get me wrong though. There are times when I feel like that last thing I want to do is open up my bible. Have you ever found that when you force yourself to open up your bible on those days, you find yourself in God’s presence the most.

In Matthew Chapter 4, we see the account of Jesus being tempted by the Devil for 40 days. Once Jesus replaced Satan’s lies with God’s truth, it was then that His minsitry truly started. I’m sure many of you reading this will have seen so many different angles on this story and know it front to back, but humour me for a moment. This passage, for me, shows me really why reading the scripture is so important and such a meaningful part of my life.

It is written: ‘Man shall not live on bread alone, but on every word that comes from the mouth of God’.

MATTHEW 4:4

The phrase ‘it is written” is recorded 3 different times in the space of 11 verses. Now, I don’t know about you but I’ve always been taught that when something is repeated in the bible, we best be paying attention to it! Especially, when it comes out of the mouth of Jesus!

Our world fills our hearts with doubts and fears. Lies that cloud our thoughts and judgment. When people twist Scripture for their own purposes or to throw us into confusion. What do you and I do then? If we don’t know what the word of God says, TRULY says, then how do we know what is the truth and who and what we can trust? What about ourselves? How can we judge ourselves and question whether our intents and our actions are right?

Scripture is important. One of the most important things you can invest your time in. It is essential to defend ourselves and to fight the enemy with. It dispels the fog of darkness under your feet, and lights the path underneath you like a lamp. If you do not know what the truth is, evil will twist and deviate what the Word of God really says.

If doubts are something that you struggle with a lot then check out my blog about Replacing Lies or if you struggle with reading the bible then check out my blog on How to Read the Bible More.

All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, thoroughly equipped for every good work.

2 TIMOTHY 3:16-17
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He Holds All Things Together

He Holds All Things Together

Do you know that God loves you so much today, more than you could ever imagine? Not only did He send His Son, Jesus, to pay the price for your sins so that He could have a relationship with you, He also wants to lavish you with everything He has, and everything He is. 

When you join in covenant with God, He makes all things available to you. What does “all” mean? It means exactly that — all. Do you need peace? He is your peace. Do you need joy? He is your joy. Do you need strength? He is your strength. Do you need restoration in your life? He is your restorer. Do you need rest? He has it. You need provision? It’s yours. Protection? It’s yours! God is the single source of everything that you will ever need, and He will freely give it to you! Hallelujah!

Today, you may have times when you struggle to receive all that God has for you. Maybe you think that you don’t want to bother God, or you somehow think you don’t deserve what He has for you, that mindset is not the truth. The truth is that you can’t earn a gift. He gives it freely. Imagine His arms outstretched to you right now. Receive His love, receive His grace, and receive all that He has in store for you!

“He who did not spare His own Son, but gave him up for us all–how will He not also, along with him, graciously give us all things?”

(Romans 8:32, NIV)

Pray With Me
Yahweh, by faith right now I receive all that You have for me. Father, thank You for sending Your Son, to die for me so that I can live with You. I declare that He is my Lord and Saviour, my ultimate provider and redeemer. God, I receive all that You have for me, in Jesus’ Name! Amen

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Keep Believing: God in the Midst of Our Deepest Struggles

I read this story from a well known preacher and thought it made my point so I thought I’d share it. He knew a man who was believing to pay his house off. It was a standard 30-year mortgage, and he had 23 years left. In the natural, there was no way he could do it. But he was bold enough to say, “Father, I want to thank You that You are Jehovah Jireh; the Lord my provider. I know my job is not my source. You are my source. It may look impossible, but I know You can do the impossible.”

Several years ago, he received an inheritance from a family member that he had never met before. He didn’t even know they were related. He was able to not only pay his house off, but he paid a friend’s house off as well. What was that? Explosive blessings! Hallelujah!

Today my friend, when you believe God, you position yourself for miracles. When you are obedient to His commands, you set yourself under the open windows of heaven. When you declare God’s Word with faith, power and boldness, you activate His power. All you have to do is keep believing, keep trusting, keep speaking, and see the victory and miracles God has in store for you!

“It is written: ‘I believed; therefore I have spoken.’ With that same spirit of faith we also believe and therefore speak.”

(2 Corinthians 4:13, NIV)

Pray With Me
Yahweh, thank You for Your Word which is alive and powerful! Father, I set my mind on Your promises, and will declare by faith what You say about me. I will keep believing no matter what. Thank You for Your faithfulness, as I move forward in the divine plan You have for me, in Jesus’ Name! Amen.

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Kurds Betrayed by Western Powers. No One Surprised.

The recent developments coming from US President Trump’s conversation with Turkish leader Erdogan generated a large emotional reaction in me. In no particular order, I was outraged, grieved, angered, horrified and appalled. The only thing that I did not feel was surprise. This is not the first time the Kurds have been sold out by the West. The same thing happened at the end of WWI and WWII, to name only two other times.

It seems that the Kurds could take a lesson from the leaders of the divided kingdoms of Judah and Israel in the Old Testament. They were infamous for looking to foreign powers for their salvation rather than to God. I understand that some Kurds are Christians, so they have as much right as any other national group to claim 2 Chronicles 7:14.

Please understand that I have no idea if God wants there to be an independent Kurdistan or not. Discerning God’s will in such matters is quite above my level of understanding. I do know that God cares deeply for everyone struggling in that region. Starting from that perspective, I drew a deeply personal lesson out of the betrayal of the Kurds.

The lesson is simple, and it comes straight out of the Bible. Don’t trust people because you will only end up disappointed. Trust God instead. This is a central theme of the Bible that starts in Genesis and continues all the way through to Revelation. The success or failure of any individual in the Bible is tied directly to their trust or lack of trust in God in that situation.

For example, Eve ultimately doubted God and decided to trust the serpent. Solomon built alliances with foreign powers through marriage, demonstrating the limits of human wisdom. Of course, any list of doubters–no matter how short–must include the apostle Thomas for his statements regarding the testimony of his fellow apostles.

As Christians, of course, we have come to depend on God for our salvation. We’ve accepted the truth of Romans 3:23 that all have sinned and are in need of a redeemer and that the redeemer we need is Jesus Christ: God who became man to die for our sins so that we do not get what we deserve. (1 John 4:10, etc.) Unfortunately, too often, this is as far as our trust goes.

While there is a great deal that I do not understand about how best to live the Christian life, I am confident that God intends us to trust Him for things beyond our salvation. I see this in James 1:5, where we are instructed to ask for wisdom with the confident expectation that we will receive it. In fact, the entire book of James can be understood as an encouragement to depend on God.

The instruction to depend on Him is repeated in the context of both spiritual matters and physical needs. Again, like the examples where Western powers disappointed the Kurds or people in the Bible doubted God, there are far too many verses to cite them all, but here are a few that establish the principle that God wants us to trust Him:

He who did not spare his own Son but gave him up for us all, how will He not also with Him graciously give us all things?

Romans 8:32

And my God will supply every need of yours according to his riches in glory in Christ Jesus.

Philippians 4:19

And without faith it is impossible to please him, for whoever would draw near to God must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who seek him.

Hebrews 11:6

But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.

Matthew 6:33

And whatever you ask in prayer, you will receive, if you have faith.

Matthew 21:22

This is the confidence that we have toward Him, that if we ask anything according to His will He hears us. And if we know that he hears us in whatever we ask, we know that we will have the requests that we have asked of Him.

1 John 5:14—15

Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us, to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, for ever and ever!

Ephesians 3:20

Not that my own experience can add anything to the weight of Scripture, but I can say without a doubt that every lack in my life can be traced to an unwillingness to trust God. I often do not want to admit this, but it’s the truth. I tend to depend on people than on God, and as the Kurds can tell you, that’s not a good idea. Fortunately, the first step in solving a problem is to admit you have one.

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God Will Move Your Toxic Boss

Do you hate going to work because your boss is a tyrant? Some people are upset because their boss is really against them. Is he/she always trying to make you look bad and would never give you any kind of recognition? The truth is that some bosses are just jealous and evil. In cases like this our job is to give them to God and keep being the best — work unto God. There may be several promotions that you should have received, but because of this unfair boss, you were passed over.

One day the CEO of your corporation may be in town, or passing through your department, and see your good work and be impressed. One day because of your prayers, good work and God-like attitude, God might move your boss and make you the boss, or promote you or give you the dream job. Today, instead of working for the unfair boss, work unto God and the tables will turn in your favour. Hallelujah!

Today, remember, increase and promotion comes from the Lord. When you stay faithful and keep a right positive attitude, that’s when God will increase you and promote you. One touch of His favour and things will totally turn around! Keep abiding. Keep being faithful. Stay on that high road. God will make your wrongs right and promote you in your due season!

“For exaltation (promotion) comes neither from the east nor from the west nor from the south. But God is the Judge: He puts down one, and exalts another.”

(Psalm 75:6-7, NKJV)

Pray With Me
Yahweh, today I humbly submit myself to You because You are good and faithful. Father, I will work and live according to Your Word, because I love You and desire to honour You. God, I receive Your mercy and grace today, so I can live a life pleasing to You, in Jesus’ Name! Amen.

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How To Ensure Digital Safety As A Domestic Violence Survivor

Content warning: This article discusses aspects of domestic violence and abuse.

An estimated two million adults experienced domestic abuse in the UK last year, according to the Office for National Statistics. Women were twice as likely to have experienced domestic violence as men, while women of color were three times more likely to die at the hands of their partners than white women.

In the digital age, it’s easier to find information on how to get help and connect with other survivors. Unfortunately, technology also gives abusers new avenues to control and manipulate the survivors. Knowing how tech can be used against them is an important first step for survivors to ensure personal safety.

This guide discusses some of the ways technology is used by domestic abusers and how survivors can strive towards greater digital autonomy.

Make sure you can trust your devices

There are many spyware programs out there. It’s not uncommon for domestic abusers to extend their control over survivors by installing tracking software on their devices. This type of software can track the target’s location, intercept their messages, record their calls, and more.

Signs that your device might have been tampered with:

  • Your device behaves differently than it used to
  • Your abuser took your device from you for an extended period
  • Your abuser knows intimate details from your life, such as what you did at a specific time or contents of the messages you send
  • Tapping software will likely consume quite a lot of battery power. If your battery runs out faster than it used it could be a red flag
  • There is unusual background noise when you’re on a call

It’s hard for a layperson to know for sure whether there’s a tracking software on their device, but if you notice one or more of these red flags it’s better to err on the side of caution. Remember also there are many ways to track you: the abuser could have planted a GPS tracker in your car or installed secret cameras at home. Stay vigilant.

Regain control of your devices

Suspecting that there is tapping software on your device? The easiest course of action would, of course, be to uninstall it. However, a lot of spyware software is hidden, so you won’t be able to simply find the right icon and delete it.

If that’s the case, try restoring your device to factory settings. This is a drastic measure as it wipes your entire device clean, but it should get rid of the tapping software in the process. Make sure you backup all your files and information before you do this.

Once you’ve regained control of your device, you can take steps to prevent the abuser from installing a tapping program on it again. Choose a new screen lock on your phone or a new password on your laptop. Ideally, don’t use the fingerprint, face scanner, or other biometric unlocking features. Someone could try unlocking your phone with your finger while you’re asleep.

If you’re not sure whether the spyware is gone from your device, consider the device unsafe to use. If possible, use a desktop computer in your local library for looking up sensitive information and communicating with your friends.

Take steps against financial abuse

Financial abuse is one of the forms of domestic abuse where the abuser uses financial dependence as a means of control. Women living with HIV are particularly vulnerable to this form of abuse — the discrimination against HIV-positive professionals can make earning a living especially tough.

If you’re not sure whether you’re a victim of financial abuse, you can use these questions to identify your situation.

The important first step to battle financial abuse is to secure your own financial means. Your abuser likely has access to your bank card statements, National Insurance number, or other identifying information. Thanks to all this sensitive data, they can access your current accounts, freeze your assets, or transfer them to their own account.

Take proactive steps to prevent your abuser from taking your financial means away. You can call your bank and credit card companies to change your account numbers, PIN numbers, passwords, and other access codes. Ask your bank to disable online banking for your account. Online banking is the easiest way for your abuser to impersonate you and take control of your money.

Secure your personal data

Your abuser withholding important documents and financial records from you is a scenario you should prepare for. If you still have safe access to your documents, make digital copies of them and store them in a safe place that your abuser doesn’t know about. If you’re certain you can trust your device, upload them into cloud storage. Otherwise, you can buy a USB stick, upload the files there, and keep it hidden.

Some of the documents you might want copies of include your passport, birth certificate, marriage certificate, copies of your checking account, savings account, and credit card numbers, your children’s travel documents, driving license, medical records, insurance policies, and loan/mortgage information.

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The Joker and Real Reasons Why The Media Hates It

The problem with ‘Joker’ and the mainstream media is the movie is not useful to them. Mostly in the left-wing community, this movie was a waste of time and money. They just couldn’t use it. As a result, it MUST be blacklisted. 

Nowadays if the movie doesn’t have progressive themes, it’s considered a loss immediately by the left. This community must be able to use every form of media to push forward whatever narrative they’re towing that day. And for that, ‘Joker’, starring Joaquin Phoenix must pay. It must stand as the media’s example to Hollywood directors everywhere that if you make a movie that cannot be used exclusively for the progressive themes of this country, many of which go against Biblical principles, it will be demonized to the point of no return. Don’t believe me? As of 9:30 a.m. Oct. 4, 2019, these were the headlines:

· ‘Joker’ hits movie theaters with controversy and extra security : In this narrative, the media created a theme that it would incite violence. Yet, people went to see other action movies this year with just as much violence.  

· Why ‘Joker’ became one of the most divisive movies of the year: When they don’t want you to see a movie, it’s labeled ‘divisive’.  David Chapelle’s Sticks And Stones received the same label because he challenged everything you’re not supposed to make fun of: All the progressive narratives. 

· Joker review — the most disappointing film of the year: In the final narrative, the media now just says it’s horrible. They’d prefer you don’t see it at all because it’s “Just that bad.”

The problem with this pattern is that it has become very, very obvious to the movie fans. If there isn’t a LGTBQ presence, a female lead or supporting female lead role, a minority lead role, a progressive theme that can be discussed on all the media outlets that match with a worldview, it’s useless. ‘Joker’ addresses mental health and the failure of a government support system. People can easily relate to a man who faced an uphill battle from birth and matured into something he probably didn’t set out to be, but accepted as his fate.

Weeks earlier IT: Chapter 2 was released and there were no alarms of threats in theaters. There were no concerns of mental health and all the elements that surround that topic. Why? Why no outrage. It could be used.

****Spoiler Alert: Stop reading here if you haven’t’ seen IT Chapter 2. ****

The movie opens up with a group of young men bullying and assaulting a gay couple. And there it is. Follow the headlines and you can make the connections to the theme so easily that IT was a poster for the quest to fight bullying, especially against the homosexual community. It could be used, while entertain at the same time. It bore a mark. 

The Bible clearly explains this would be the times we would endure:

 “And that no man might buy or sell, save he that had the mark, or the name of the beast, or the number of his name.” -Revelation 13:17 

The text tells us that for people to buy or sell during the time of the Beast, there is a choice. Notice the conjugation “or”. There is a choice. A person, company, brand, can either have a mark, know the name, or the number. In my personal opinion, these are codes or signals to alert one another. It’s not surprising to interpret the text in such a way. Christians used to draw fish on the ground to identify with one another.

Let me end by saying this: I went and saw The Da Vinci Code because I wanted to know for myself the content and context. I would recommend you do the same. You cannot trust movie reviews no more than you can trust just one news network. There is a war going on out here, and the Spirits of Darkness know that media is the quickest way to influence, indoctrinate, and activate many of their divisive tools that go against God.

These are the same people who will be lining up to see Terminator: Dark Fate. I love the Terminator movies, but you’ll see a different media response, and now you know why. Don’t be sheep. 

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Your Year of Independence

If you want heartburn try eating everything.

No matter what you do you will not be able to please everyone. So why try? You know coming out of last year I felt the need for detoxification. No, it is not what you think! I wanted to detoxify from people.
Yes, people. I have watched others, including myself, at times fall viticm to people pleasing. I have allowed some people knowingly and unknowingly to control parts of my life. It is one of those behavioural patterns that left me scratching my head. I would sometimes say to myself, “what were you thinking signing on to that crap.”

People pleasing can become counter-productive to your success, if not, checked at the door. I find myself becoming so irritated when I see people allowing themselves to become someones doormat for a, “that’s a good boy!” 

I have witnessed over the years the destructive effects of people that have loss a since of themselves because they have allowed others to control their lives. Witnessing adults that can’t make sound decisions because they are so afraid of being singled out and ostracized is a sobering reminder, people pleasing is a destructive behavior.

Possessing within oneself the strength to say, “No” is a powerful and sought after quality in my opinion. To have ownership of ones life is a must. It is a sobering reminder that we must harold and respect appropriate boundaries for our lives.
I believe that if we live our lives to please God then we won’t spend so much time trying to please others.
So I have come up with my mantra and you can rock it too…,

“It’s time to detoxify.”

I have made up my mind that I will rid myself of hurtful and harmful habits and emotions such as people pleasing.

People pleasing can be extremely harmful to our mental health and self-esteem. You don’t have to look any further than social media to see the devasting effects of people addiction.

Likes and dislikes have become the new form of people pleasing and some people will almost kill themselves to trend in likes.

We have to combat and confront such harmful patterns of self-deprivation and ineptitude. We must begin to form and practice good habits of self-love. We must strive to see ourselves in a positive light.

How we see ourselves is so important to how we treat and let others treat us. Why should someone else respect you when you don’t respect yourself? We must practice good habits and detoxify our minds from the grips of people pleasing.

Serving others and caring for them with respect and love can be extremely valuable. However, when we allow ourselves to be self-serving trying to please others to please ourselves, we cause great emotional and mental harm to ourselves.
There is nothing wrong with wanting to see people happy.

The problem comes in when we allow other peoples desires to become idols to us.

For example: We can’t sleep unless everyone is pleased with our decisions.

This kind of behaviour is a problem. We should do our best to be fair to all. But the key is not to lose ourselves in pleasing others to the point of making idols out of them.
Stop waiting for people to sanction your every move. We must trust God to direct us and put the right people in our paths to take us to the next level. 

Pray while you’re moving. Make a God sought decision for your life by prayer, thoughtfulness and trusting that God will not stir you wrong.

Mike Anthoni host of the Urban Christian Podcast: Making An Impact Christian Podcast Show

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God rewards the righteous

Notice today’s verse doesn’t say that God rewards those who “deserve” it, or have “earned” it. It doesn’t say that God rewards those who act perfectly and never make mistakes. No, God’s blessing isn’t based on our performance, it’s based on our faith, our belief in Him, and His goodness.

So do you want a reward? Start believing, start spending more time meditating on God’s goodness and dwelling on His faithfulness. Expect Him to act in your life. Spend some time seeking Him, reading the Psalms, and begin to praise and thank Him for all He is doing.

Today, open your eyes of faith and see all of the wonderful things He has prepared for you. Let His Word shape your thoughts, and remember He is a rewarder! He wants to bless you today because you earnestly seek after Him!

“And without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to Him must believe that He exists and that He rewards those who earnestly seek Him.”

(Hebrews 11:6, NIV)

Pray With Me
Yahweh, thank You for Your Word which fills my heart and mind with faith. Father, I believe that You are good and that You are a rewarder, even when my faith is weak, and my behaviour isn’t great. God, I will put my trust in You, knowing that You have blessings in store for my future, in Jesus’ Name! Amen.

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Let It Go!

As I took a long hard look at my life, I realised that in order for me to get to the next level in my life and move into the next chapter in my life, I have to get rid of the old. Are you ready for a new chapter in your life? In order to move forward into the blessings God has for you, you have to be willing to let go of the old. The things that are behind you are not nearly as important today as what is out in front of you. It’s time to get ready for the “new”!

Some unfair things happen, things that you don’t understand. But let me tell you, you have come too far to stop now, despite what others may say and what you think. Instead of allowing those things to hold you back, why don’t you let go and take a step of faith into the new? It’s time to get a new, bigger vision; it’s time to get a new, fresher outlook; it’s time to rise up with a new attitude!

Today, Instead of settling where you are, pick up and move forward, no matter what has been said about you. Have the attitude that says, “I may not understand it; it may not have been fair, but I am not getting stuck on this page of my life. I know God has a new chapter for me–a chapter filled with blessings, favour and victory!

“And no one puts new wine into old wineskins. If he does, the new wine will burst the skins and it will be spilled, and the skins will be destroyed.”

(Luke 5:37, ESV)

Pray With Me
Yahweh, thank You for Your faithfulness in my life. Father, today, I will trust You with my past, present and future. God, give me wisdom to discern the seasons of my life, and teach me to embrace the new things You have in store for me. Cover me from my enemies and the devil who will seek to bring me back into the old, in Jesus’ Name! Amen.

Today is the day to let go of the past.

You are never going to live out your true potential in life if you hold onto past hurt. You’ve already finished those chapters. Now is the time to re-write your story, one that is empowering and uplifting. As someone once said, “You can’t start the next chapter of your life if you keep re-reading the last one.” 

Quotes For Letting Go Of The Past And Moving On With Your Life

“If letting go, if letting people and things work themselves out in the way that they needed to without your help was the most important thing, then it was also the hardest.”
? Deb Caletti, The Six Rules of Maybe

“When someone you love says goodbye you can stare long and hard at the door they closed and forget to see all the doors God has open in front of you.”
? Shannon L. Alder”

“If you spend your time hoping someone will suffer the consequences for what they did to your heart, then you’re allowing them to hurt you a second time in your mind.”
? Shannon L. Alder

“The greatest step towards a life of simplicity is to learn to let go.”
? Steve Maraboli, Life, the Truth, and Being Free

“If you want to forget something or someone, never hate it, or never hate him/her. Everything and everyone that you hate is engraved upon your heart; if you want to let go of something, if you want to forget, you cannot hate.”
? C. JoyBell C.

“Cry. Forgive. Learn. Move on. Let your tears water the seeds of your future happiness.”
? Steve Maraboli

“There is no such thing as a “broken family.” Family is family, and is not determined by marriage certificates, divorce papers, and adoption documents. Families are made in the heart. The only time family becomes null is when those ties in the heart are cut. If you cut those ties, those people are not your family. If you make those ties, those people are your family. And if you hate those ties, those people will still be your family because whatever you hate will always be with you.”
? C. JoyBell C.

“If you didn’t love him, this never would have happened. But you did. And accepting that love and everything that followed it is part of letting it go.”
? Sarah Dessen, Dreamland

When we think we have been hurt by someone in the past, we build up defenses to protect ourselves from being hurt in the future. So the fearful past causes a fearful future and the past and future become one. We cannot love when we feel fear…. When we release the fearful past and forgive everyone, we will experience total love and oneness with all.”
? Gerald G. Jampolsky

“Some people believe holding on and hanging in there are signs of great strength. However, there are times when it takes much more strength to know when to let go and then do it.”
? Ann Landers

“The beautiful journey of today can only begin when we learn to let go of yesterday.”
? Steve Maraboli, Unapologetically You: Reflections on Life and the Human Experience

“Let go of certainty. The opposite isn’t uncertainty. It’s openness, curiosity and a willingness to embrace paradox, rather than choose up sides. The ultimate challenge is to accept ourselves exactly as we are, but never stop trying to learn and grow.”
? Tony Schwartz

“Being different is a revolving door in your life where secure people enter and insecure exit.”
? Shannon L. Alder

“We can’t be afraid of change. You may feel very secure in the pond that you are in, but if you never venture out of it, you will never know that there is such a thing as an ocean, a sea. Holding onto something that is good for you now, may be the very reason why you don’t have something better.”
? C. JoyBell C.

“I realise there’s something incredibly honest about trees in winter, how they’re experts at letting things go.”
? Jeffrey McDaniel

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Repetition Deepens Impression

Notice in today’s verse, God’s people were commanded to go around continually saying, “let God be magnified. He takes pleasure in prospering me.” I believe one reason they were supposed to say it all the time, is so it would get down on the inside of their hearts, and stick in their minds.

There is an old saying that “repetition deepens impression.” When we hear something long enough, we start to believe as it sinks deep in our minds. It starts to affect the way we see things. I wonder what would happen if all through the day, we decided to stop dwelling on negative, defeated thoughts like, “I’ll never get out of debt. My business will never expand. How can I send my children to university, it’s so expensive?” And what if you started dwelling on thoughts like, “God takes pleasure in prospering me. Good breakthroughs are in my future and explosive blessings are coming my way?”

Today, let the truth of God’s Word sink down into your heart. All throughout the day, declare His goodness continually, praise Him at every opportunity, let the world know of His faithfulness. Declare His blessings, because He delights in seeing you prosper, and God inhabits your praise!

“Let them shout for joy and rejoice, who favour my vindication; and let them say continually, ‘The Lord be magnified, Who delights in the prosperity of His servant.’”

(Psalm 35:27, NASB)

Pray With Me
Yahweh, thank You for Your goodness. Father thank You for finding joy in seeing me succeed. Help me to see my life the way You see it, and I will praise and magnify You continually, for You are worthy to be praised and lifted up. God, help me to see and declare the breakthrough, blessings and victories You have for me, in Jesus’ Name! Amen.

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Dear Depressed Christian: If You Do Nothing Else Today, Please Read This

Is there an issue in your life today that you would like to put a stop to? Maybe it’s a certain behaviour, addiction or bad attitude that isn’t pleasing to God. When Adam and Eve disobeyed in the garden, the first thing God did was to put clothing on them. They needed to be covered. In the same way, you and I need to be covered today. What should we cover or clothe ourselves with?

Remember, when you “clothe yourself” with the Lord Jesus Christ, you will be protected and able to stand strong against temptation. How do you clothe yourself with Jesus Christ? First of all, when you receive Jesus as your Lord and Saviour, you are covered and cleansed by His blood. You are restored and renewed.

Today think about this, just as you get dressed daily to cover your body, you have to daily “cover” your mind with the Word of God. That means you cover every point that has access to your thoughts. Cover your ears by listening to the Word. Cover your eyes by watching only what is pleasing to the Lord. Cover your mouth by speaking the Word and encouraging those around you. As you cover yourself with Christ, you’ll be strong against temptation, you’ll walk in victory, and you’ll experience the good things He has in store for you!

“Clothe yourself with the Lord Jesus Christ (the Messiah), and make no provision for [indulging] the flesh [put a stop to thinking about the evil cravings of your physical nature]”¦”

(Romans 13:14, AMP)

Pray With Me
Yahweh, thank You for sending Your Son, Jesus, to redeem me and restore me. Father, there are many issues I’ve been struggling with for a long time. Please cover me with Your Spirit so I can stand against temptation. I say thank You in advance for making me new and covering me, so that I can stand strong against temptation. Today, I submit every area of my life to You and invite You to have Your way in me, in Jesus’ name! Amen

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