Tag: Bread of Life

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Don’t Allow Your Confinement To Hold You Back  

Parenting For Eternity If someone asked you what you wanted most for your children. Your automatic response would properly be, “Success!”

In scripture, a Prophet finds himself in captivity in ancient Babylon. In exile, the prophet sees angels and hears a voice of judgement that will immediately chastise and eventually restore his nation.

By age 28, Beethoven began to lose his hearing, and by the time he was 44, he was completely deaf. But in the last 15 years of his life, Beethoven composed some of his most cherished and awe-inspiring music. 

Born out of wedlock in 18th century Britain, a scientist by the name of James Smithson was denied the right to use his father’s last name during his younger years. Upon his death, Smithson left his hefty estate to his nephew, with the stipulation that if his nephew died without an heir, Smithson’s estate would go to a country he’d never visited to establish an institution of learning. Thus, we have the Great Smithsonian Institute. 

Born Michael King on January 15, 1929, in Atlanta GA Martin Luther King the great civil rights leader end in jail. From a cold dark jail cell in Birmingham, Alabama, Martin Luther King, Jr. wrote one of the greatest apologetics for non-violent resistance to injustice that the world has ever known. Many say this was the greatest work ever published on this subject. The document has inspired peaceful protests around the globe ever since. 

Today, we are reminded, that some of our greatest insights have come in the midst of our hardest restrictions and inhibitions. Inhibitions of health, identity and human rights cannot diminish the power embedded in dreams, visions, and imagination. In fact, I believe inhibitions are the incubators of our greatest insights and innovations. 

“While I was among the exiles by the Kebar River, the heavens were opened and I saw visions of God.” – Ezekiel 1:1 

Let’s Pray 

Yahweh, help me to never allow my confines to restrict the content of my visions. In Christ’s name Amen. 

In reflection 

What context of confinement will God use as a conduit to give expression to your next big idea? 

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Do Not Sin When You’re Angry  

This has been a frustrating week for me, as I had to contend with health issues. Lots of ‘why’ questions led to angry thoughts. We all get angry. But there’s a right way and a wrong way to handle our anger. The wrong way will lead to more wrong and destructive things. Moses handled his anger the wrong way and it cost him the Promised Land. After Moses let the Israelites’ quarrelling and complaining get to him, he didn’t remind them of the glory of the Lord. So, God told Moses that he wouldn’t see the Promised Land, instead, the task of leading the Israelites into it was given to Joshua. 

Jesus handled His anger the right way, and those who took advantage of the poor were exposed and thrown out of the temple. ‘Jesus went straight to the temple and threw out everyone who had set up shop, buying and selling… now there was room for the blind and crippled to get in. They came to Jesus, and he healed them (Matthew 21:12-14 MSG). The Bible says: ‘Be angry and do not sin’ which means instead of just complaining about the problem, we’re supposed to do something about it.  

When we let our anger build up without dealing with it, we can end up letting all our anger out in the wrong way. Instead of letting it build up, we need to deal with it. When we begin to feel angry, we need to assess why we’re feeling like that, and talk to the people involved calmly. The Bible tells us that we not only shouldn’t sin when we’re angry, but we also shouldn’t ‘let the sun go down on our anger’. And that means we shouldn’t leave any anger unresolved. 

Today, we need to sort out issues with other people, and with ourselves, by inviting God into the situation and dealing with conflict in a mature and Christ-like way. Do you have any built-up anger? Take it to God and ask Him to help you deal with it calmly and maturely. 

‘Be angry, and do not sin.’ (Ephesians 4:26) 

Let’s Pray 

Yahweh, thank You for being my God. Thank You for caring for me and teaching me valuable lessons for life. Father, I seek to do things Your way. To solve conflicts and treat others the way You would. God, help me control my anger so I’m not offensive or destructive. Lord, teach me how not to sin, so I will be pleasing to You, in Christ’s name! Amen. 

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It’s Time To Grow Up 

women wearing brown dress close up photography

God’s intervention can feel poorly timed, perhaps even prickly, sharp, and uncomfortable. But convenience is not something we should expect from God.  

God may not operate on our time frame, but He is always on time. Any attempt to schedule growth or to wait until life isn’t so busy, to wait until the children are older, to wait until God’s commands feel less confrontational will mean missing out on what God is doing now and in His big picture. 

It is easy to slip into comfortable religion, consuming morsels of truth sporadically to dilute their impact. But the same way that eating ice cream for every meal isn’t good for our physical health, sticking only to the Scriptures we like isn’t good for our spiritual health. God invites us to feast on all of His Word, enjoy all of His promises and heed all of His hard instructions. 

Today as we learn to eat well-balanced spiritual food, we start to grow up in faith. We start to see how the Bible is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting, and training in righteousness, so that the servant of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work. Remember, God is more concerned with your spiritual growth than your secular comfort 

All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, that the man of God[a] may be complete, equipped for every good work. (2 Timothy 3:16-17) 

Let’s Pray 

Yahweh, life seems to be a journey full of stumbling blocks and challenges. Father, with each hurdle, there is growth. With each setback, a valuable lesson. Lord, I ask that You give me the wisdom and presence of mind to learn from my mistakes and pitfalls. God help me to appreciate the rebukes, reproofs, and difficult things you ask me to do. Please give me the strength to approach these things with spiritual maturity, knowing they are for my growth bringing me closer to You. In Jesus’s name Amen. 

In Reflection: 

What does this passage teach us about God? How does it apply to you? 

Is it possible to hear the truth and remain unchanged by it?  

Is your commitment to growth and change more acceptable now? How? 

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Building Your Faith Through Community

Building Your Faith Through Community

When I was young, I played with building blocks. You could stack them one on top of the other to build a big tower, or you could put them side by side to build a wall. You could use them to build anything you desire. They couldn’t do much on their own, but together they could make something great. The same is true for each of us. Living in a community with God’s people, we can accomplish more things than we could alone. The Bible tells us to build our faith through prayer and community. Prayer is how we talk to God. As we communicate with God through prayer, we put our hope and trust in Him, and our relationship with Him and others grows deeper.

What does a community of faith look like? Community is made up of the relationships we make with other Christians. Community builds our faith by allowing us to encourage each other. Just like rubbing sticks together can start a fire; when people get together in a community, they fan the fire of each other’s faith.

Today, please realise following Jesus is a journey. Sometimes, we’re going to want to throw our hands up and quit. At other times, we’re going to be so excited we want to jump up and down and scream. That’s why it’s so important to persevere with the building blocks of prayer and community. Whether life is going great or not going at all, God has given us ways to draw strength from Him and from His people. So don’t do life alone. Start building your faith today.

“And whatever you ask in prayer, you will receive, if you have faith” Matthew 21:22. 

Let’s Pray

Yahweh, I pray for our community.  Each one of us within the community is important to you.  Father, you died so that each of them could experience freedom and eternal life.  You desire for each of them to be saved. Now help us to raise up a team of people who will intercede for the community.  People who are willing to put feet to their prayers.  People who will work together to glorify you by showing love and care for their neighbours.  People who are eager to share how you are transforming their character and blessing their lives.  Lord, show us how you want us to work together so that “your Kingdom come; your will be done on earth as it is in heaven”, In Jesus’ name Amen.”

In Reflection:

What’s one way you’ve seen prayer build your faith?

Is there anything you need to take to God in prayer today?

Do you have a solid Christian community? Who do you turn to when you need help or want to celebrate?

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Parenting For Eternity

Parenting For Eternity If someone asked you what you wanted most for your children. Your automatic response would properly be, “Success!”

If someone asked you what you wanted most for your children. Your automatic response would properly be, “Success!”

As a follower of Christ, I’ve discovered things more important than success in and of itself.

Our time on earth is short, and eternity is sure to follow. James 4:14 describes life on earth as, “a mist that appears for a little while and then vanishes.” This should help with the choices parents make.

Ways Eternity Should Change How We Think As Parent 

 

We Realize our kids are not our own. 

Being a parent naturally involves putting the needs of our kids above our own and sacrificing to provide for them. But ultimately, each child belongs to God. Psalm 127:3-4 says God gives them to us as a reward. When we think of children as solely “ours,” our goals and our desires for them become the focus. When we think of parenting as stewarding the gifts God gives us, it puts the focus back on what God wants for them, which may not always be what we want for them.

We will Have different priorities. 

To most people, wanting success for my children would be admirable, even expected. We’re called to teach our children there is more to life than the success the world tells you about. Knowing the love of God is the greatest thing we can desire for our children. Encouraging good grades and allowing kids to excel in sports is great. But teaching our kids to look for the lonely and the hurting, to love sacrificially, to forgive quickly, and to obey God’s Word is more important than anything else.

We will encourage and celebrate differently. 

The world tells us that our kids are defined by their accomplishments in school, on the playing field, and in comparison to others. But the Bible tells us to focus on their hearts, not their trophies. We’re to point our children to the love of God so much it becomes a way of life. They should hear about it day and night, they should see it in our houses and in how we live our lives. Our lives should be a picture of the Gospel, pointing others to Christ and celebrating when our children do the same. If someone asked me today what I want most for my children, my answer would be, “That they would love the Lord.”

Today, our children who love the Lord, whose confidence and trust are in Him, are blessed no matter what comes. “They will be like a tree planted by the water that sends out its roots by the stream. It does not fear when heat comes; its leaves are always green. It has no worries in a year of drought and never fails to bear fruit” (Jeremiah 17:7-8). I can live in peace knowing that a child who follows the Lord will ultimately be blessed. Their roads may not look like I envision, but if they’re following God’s plan for their lives, I know it’s the best plan for them. Parenting with eternity in mind means remembering we have the opportunity to raise disciples who will make a difference in this world. We can leave a legacy that makes an eternal impact, one generation pointing the next generation to Jesus.

Train up a child in the way he should go: and when he is old, he will not depart from it. ‘ (Prov. 22:6.) 

 

Let’s Pray 

Yahweh, I commit my children unto you. Father, supply whatever is wanting in me, through frailty or negligence. Strengthen them to overcome the corruptions of the world, to resist all solicitations to evil, whether from within or without and deliver them from the secret snares of the enemy. God, pour your grace into their hearts and confirm and multiply in them the gifts of Thy Holy Spirit, that they may daily grow in grace and in the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ both now and throughout eternity, in Christ’s name. Amen.

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How To Make Most Of The New Year

Blessed Are the Peacemakers

Many people give advice on how to make the most of the New Year. They may suggest a new diet, a new exercise routine, new learning programs, new money management, or new relationships, but there is something else we should consider. Something that includes all those areas of our lives and more.

God’s word! Read your Bible. It’s as simple as that.

The goal isn’t just to read some verses and walk back into the rest of your life unaffected. The goal of reading your Bible should be to know God better and do what He says. How will the Bible change our year?

God communicates His truth and love through the Word (2 Timothy 3:16-17). By reading the Bible, we are learning that God came to rescue us and give us what we need for our lives, through purpose and meaningful connections. When we experience the truth revealed in Scripture, we are given the opportunity to change. Since the Bible is full of truth, we have so many things to learn and ways to grow.

Scripture is a powerful tool God can use throughout our lives. Even if you’ve read the Bible for most of your life, there is always more to learn. Each time we open the Bible, God shows us something new and leads us further than we’ve been before.

Today, Jesus wants us to have a better New Year than we want for ourselves. The best way to discover what He has in store for us is to listen to Him and do what He says. That process begins with the instructions He has given us in His Word. As you move forward into this year, walk with Yahweh by reading the Bible and obeying Him. Scripture itself promises that God’s words would not return to Him void but accomplish what He desires (Isaiah 55:8-11).

All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, equipped for every good work. 2 Timothy 3:16-17 (ESV) 

Let’s Pray

Yahweh, as the dawn breaks on a new year, let us give thanks for all we hold dear: our health, our family and our friends. Father, help us release our grudges, our anger and our pains, for these are nothing but binding chains. Let us spend time daily in your word. Learning to live in the most loving and God-conscious way. Let us serve all who are in need, regardless of race, colour or creed. God may my year be filled with peace, prosperity and love. May blessings shower upon me and bestow upon each of us a bright, healthy and peaceful new year. In Christ’s name, Amen

In Reflection

Do you want to see how much your New Year and your life can be changed by God? Read your Bible and follow Jesus, step by step.

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Nia / Purpose: Seeking God First

GodInterest exists to welcome people of all faiths and backgrounds, equipping people with a faith that works in real life and sends them into a world to serve for God and humanity.

Principle 5 Nia / Purpose: Mathew 6:33. But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. Including our purpose. Mathew’s admonishment is relevant and instructive for a world, especially the “superpowers” and “economically developed” nations that are so consume by the profit and control. He suggests that the priority for nations should be morality, ethics, and righteousness. In pursuit of these high values, all other matters of importance-peace, global warming, nuclear disarmament, end of poverty and war will come.

How many times have you asked yourself, “What am I here for? What is my purpose in life?” There are hundreds, if not millions, of jobs in the world, but finding a purpose is not the same as finding a career. Scripture Says “And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to His purposes.” —Romans 8:28 “The Lord directs the steps of the godly. He delights in every detail of their lives.” —Psalm 37:23. So our purpose is God Given and is based on love and God’s kingdom.

Everything has been created with a specific purpose in mind. In its simplest terms, purpose means the reason that something exists. For example, a chair exists so someone can sit in it. Likewise, we exist for a purpose that’s just as specific. In Scripture Jesus says He came to give us abundant life—one full of purpose. A carpenter creates a chair out of many pieces. Some of those pieces are pretty, like the intricately carved legs or the soft, cushy seat. Others are not so pretty, like the heavy-duty bolts that hold everything together. Regardless of its appearance, each piece is significant and helps the chair fulfil its purpose.

Today Nia teaches us that God created us with purpose and value. God is much like that carpenter because He takes every piece of our lives and fits them together perfectly to fulfil His purpose. In the book of Romans, God makes us the promise that He will work everything together for our good. He uses the good and bad stuff our victories, our good news, our celebrations, our struggles, our mistakes, and our challenges. Every detail of our life matters to God! And He uses every one of those details to give us a life filled with rich purpose that gives us a great reason to exist.

“The Lord directs the steps of the godly. He delights in every detail of their lives.” —Psalm 37:23 

Let’s Pray

Yahshua, as we approach a new year, we pray that you would remind us that we are all a part of building and expanding your Kingdom. Father, today give us a fresh vision for your purpose for our lives. We ask that you open our eyes, our ears, our hearts, and our minds to your vision so that we can live out our purpose. Remove anything from our lives that hinders us from discerning your purpose. God, draw us closer to you as you bring us revelation to our purpose. Please reveal to us what we need to do today to not run ahead of you, but rather be focused on your divine vision. In Christ’s Name, Amen.

In Reflection

What are some ways that God can remind us that He created us for a purpose?

In what details of your life is it difficult for you to see your purpose?

What prevents you from trusting God with those areas of your life?

How do you need help to see that you can trust Him? Ask Him to show you.

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Ujamaa / Cooperative Economics: Working Together

Biblical Quotes and Ways to help you Overcome Rejection

Principle 4 Ujamaa / Cooperative economics: Hebrew13:16. And do not forget to do good and to share with others, for with such sacrifices God is pleased.  Christians are instructed to share their wealth and make sacrifices for others.  Economic wealth may not mean just money. It can mean anything that can make wealth or improve someone’s standing in their community. Our economic system should reflect principles, that we have a social safety net for those who are less fortunate and need assistance.

Did you know that sacrifice is unnatural? It requires us to put aside what we want if we are going to benefit someone else. We can’t do that on our own. We need an example to follow. In scripture, Yahshua describes Himself as a good shepherd who does what is best for His sheep. When we love people selflessly, we love as He loved. But what does that look like in everyday life?

  1. Sacrifice is loving your neighbour as yourself.

It is human nature to seek the best for ourselves. Just watch children at Christmas fighting over toys or adults on Black Friday when the sales are up, and the items are few.

Yahshua showed us a better way. He gave up His rightful place in heaven to live among us on Earth. Then, He died a death He didn’t deserve to give us eternal life. When we put others first, we love our neighbours as ourselves.

  1. Sacrifice is putting others first.

Is your life characterized by thinking about others or about yourself? Would your co-workers or classmates describe you as selfish or someone who puts others before themselves?

Even when Yahshua was hungry, tired, or ready to get alone and pray, when He saw a crowd, He had compassion on them and ministered to them. He calls on us to sacrifice our wants and needs for people the way He did for us.

  1. Sacrifice without grumbling.

Loving sacrificially requires that we lay down our desires every day. When we can do that without grumbling, people will be blessed, and we will be blessed.

Yahshua is our shepherd. When we follow His example and draw from His strength which is available to us through the Holy Spirit — we can live a life characterized by supernatural love and lead others into a life of freedom, joy and peace they have never experienced.

Today Ujamaa teaches us to think about the needs of others and how we can place them before our own. Do you see a struggling mom with kids and groceries at the store? Let her get in line before you. Does your neighbour need help with his lawn? Take care of it for him. Does someone you know need help to get a business off the ground? Help them. Whatever the situation, listen to God and do what He says. Follow His prompting and leading when going about your day. If you feel like you should stop and serve, do it. This doesn’t necessarily mean you take on every opportunity presented to you. Pray. Ask God, then listen and do what He says.

Let’s Pray

Yahshua, if I have been selfish, keeping all the good to myself alone. Father, I pray that you forgive me. I know that there are people that need my help, give me the strength to help them and always stand for the right. God, I pray for the wisdom to do things the right way. Help me not to neglect people that I have the power to help today. Amen.

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Ujima / Collective Work and Responsibility: Team Work

Ujima / Collective Work and Responsibility: Team Work

Principle 3 Ujima / Collective Work and Responsibility: 1 Corinthians 12:21-25. The eye cannot say to the hand, “I don’t need you!” And the head cannot say to the feet, “I don’t need you!” On the contrary, those parts of the body that seem to be weaker are indispensable, and the parts that we think are less honourable we treat with special honour. So that there should be no division in the body, but that its parts should have equal concern for each other. This verse reminds us that we are one nation, one people, and one world and we should be concerned for each other. How different society would be today if we extended the care and concern as in the bible. We certainly would have a different perspective on Refugees, poverty, domestic violence, Gun and knife crime, unemployment, and war.

 

As a fan of Chelsea, Golden State and The Vikings, I would hear the deafening noise of fans speaking as one. While watching on the sofa might give you a better view of the game, it’s never as exhilarating as cheering on your team from the stands. A special energy comes from being part of a shared mission, whether that mission is to win a game or to bring heaven to earth.

 

When we ask God into our lives, we give Him permission to reshape our values and our perspective. We put Him in charge. We join His team and His mission. He sends all of His people out to share the good news that He has set us free and He will set things right forever. We might seem like a makeshift bunch. But when it comes to this mission, no one is too old or too young. Wherever we’ve come from and whatever we’ve done, we all have a place on this team.

 

Today, Ujima says to us at times, we are going to get tired and want to give up but the same way a team feeds off the energy of its fans, we can draw strength from one another. When our minds are unified with Yahshua anything is possible. Scripture reminds us that there is a special power that comes through unity. “May the God who gives endurance and encouragement give you the same attitude of mind toward each other that Christ had, so that with one mind and one voice you may glorify the God and Father of Yahshua”. He calls us to be one, working together for His glory. When we say yes to Jesus, we are clothed with His team jersey. And everyone regardless of skin colour, age, social status, or past life experience has a role to play.

 

The eye cannot say to the hand, “I don’t need you!” And the head cannot say to the feet, “I don’t need you!” On the contrary, those parts of the body that seem to be weaker are indispensable, and the parts that we think are less honourable we treat with special honour. So that there should be no division in the body, but that its parts should have equal concern for each other. 1 Corinthians 12:21-25

 

Let’s Pray

Yahweh, I thank you for the gift of being a part of your team. Father, may I be steadfast in working toward the goals and determined in my effort to grow together with this team and through this journey. God, grant me the grace I need to be a good teammate, so that my contributions to this team may make others better and that the experience may be more fruitful because of my participation. Lord give me the courage to sacrifice for the good of the team when necessary and the wisdom to know when to do so. May I follow the example of Christ as I interact with others every day. I ask this through Christ, our Lord and saviour, Amen.

In Reflection 

When was the last time you drew strength from someone else’s faith?

This week, is there someone you need to bear with or build up?

Is there anyone you have a hard time accepting as part of God’s team? Rather than hide that feeling, pursue unity by asking God to help you see that person through His eyes.

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Umoja (unity) Christ Prayed For Unity

Let’s be clear, Kwanzaa is a cultural and not religious holiday created by an African American. However, the principles of Kwanzaa (from Swahili) can be found in scripture and can build and enhance families and communities and elevate the political dialogue on issues of importance to all.  Hence, 7 days before the start of the year, I offer this Kwanzaa perspective for Christians, as it relates to the Seven Principles of the first fruits (kwanza).

Principle 1. Unity/Umoja: Psalms 133:1. How good and pleasant it is when brothers live together in unity. This bible verse reinforces the unity principle of togetherness and harmony and instructs that our speech, strategies, and behaviour should be directed toward bringing people together as opposed to the divide and conquer, demonize, and dominate approach that is all too present in our social relations and politics.

Politicians seem to thrive on division. Income brackets separate communities into one side of the tracks or the other. Even people who share the same beliefs bicker about how to live out those beliefs. Unity may seem far-fetched, but unity is what Christ prayed for before going to the cross. More than anything, His desire was for the church to be one because their uncommon unity would be a powerful witness of God’s love. (John 17:23).

Today Umoja (unity) teaches us with so much division in our world, Christians’ ability to be unified, even when we’re not the same, is what will set us apart. This kind of unity doesn’t happen naturally. It comes from God. As we experience God’s love for us, it leads us to love others with pure, unselfish motives. We stop trying to push ourselves to the top and begin submitting to God and one another. Just as God is unified, we are to be unified to bring God glory. We are His plan to reconcile people with Him. But reconciliation must start with us. When believers live in harmony, people take notice and get a glimpse of Christ’s love

 

How good and pleasant it is when brothers live together in unity (Psalms 133:1).

Let’s Pray 

Yahweh, when I think of places lacking in unity, the church is not the first thing I imagine. Yet today the church is full of division. Father, whether the topic is racial, same-sex relations, abortion or others, churches are not on the same page. God, how can we be of the same body but cling to so many different beliefs? We read the same text and have drastically different takeaways? Are we interpreting the Bible the way we want or are we genuinely confused? Whatever the answer, I pray that you would help the church find unity on various salvific issues. Please give us clarity on issues of culture or politics. I ask that you help us to be clear about what is most important to You in Christ’s Name, Amen!

In Reflection 

When you look at your relationships, how much unity do you see at home, at work, or at school?

What is one practical way you can build unity in the church and your community?

When is the last time you prayed for the church? Take a moment to follow Jesus’ example in praying for your church family. Pray that we would experience the same unity that Jesus had with God and the Holy Spirit.

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When Life is Not a Christmas Card

people celebrating christmas online

In homes around the world at this time of the year, we see lights aglow, stockings hung with care and turkey baking in the oven – our lives can look like a Christmas card. But sometimes it looks like something else. It can look harsher, colder, and even very lonely. Sometimes, Christmas can be hard. It doesn’t look like a well-designed Christmas card or a happy ending Christmas movie.

 

What do we do when life is hard, and we don’t know what to do? We must hold tight to our faith and keep our trust in God. Sometimes, there are those things we can never fix and things that we can never change. Sometimes, there are circumstances and trials we’ll never understand, those things we’ll never know the reason why. Sometimes, we face situations that will test our faith and test our trust in God.

 

Today I want to remind you that, faith is trusting that God is there and knowing He is always in control. Faith is staying close to Him no matter what comes your way and believing He will meet your every need. Faith is knowing that He loves you and will never leave you or forsake you. Faith is believing that in all things He has a purpose and a plan. Faith is knowing… You don’t have to understand it all just keep trusting Him.

 

“So do not fear, for I am with you; Do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.“ Isaiah 41:10

 

Let’s Pray

Yahweh, thank You, that You are my refuge and my strength in hard times and an ever-present helper in times of trouble. Father, help me to cling to You and this truth. God, I know that You are the only all-powerful God and that there is nothing that is too difficult in my life for You to deal with, nor is there any obstacle in my path that is so insurmountable that I cannot cross, knowing that You are by my side. Please give me Your strength through this season so I can face life, with confidence knowing that Your strength is made perfect in my weakness. In Christ’s name, Amen.

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The Message of The Advent is “Fear Not” 

How to Deal with Chronic Fear and Anxiety

In the story of the advent, again and again, we hear the phrase, “Fear not!” 

“Fear not Mary” (Luke 1:30); “Fear not, Joseph” (Matthew 1:20-23); “fear not shepherds” (Luke 2:9-12). Like Mary, Joseph, and the shepherds, we are so prone to fear. We’re afraid because we feel alone and forsaken, when we encounter the unknown, and when we face something bigger than us. 

The advent story teaches why we do not need to be afraid. When we feel alone and forsaken we need to remember the message of the Advent: a Saviour has been born to us…and they will call Him, Immanuel which means God with us. 

Because of Jesus God is approachable and very near—even holding our hands at times. 

“Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.”(Isaiah 41:10). 

As we encounter the New Year let’s remember it’s not unknown to God. 

The future has its uncertainties, but we enter it every day, confident in the sovereignty and sufficiency of God. Our security is not in knowing where we are, but Who we are with! We are with God Who loves us and always wants the best for us. 

“God is faithful, reliable, trustworthy and therefore ever true to His promise and He can be depended on” (1 Corinthians 1:9 Amplified) 

Today as we face something bigger than us, let’s remember that God is bigger than the things that threaten us. He will do the impossible through us. In all these things (whatever we’re facing) we are more than conquerors through him who loved us. For every day of the year, there is a “fear not” in the Bible. Do you have one for today? Try these three from the advent for the next few days, they will bring you Joy. “Fear not Mary” (Luke 1:30); “Fear not, Joseph” (Matthew 1:20-23); “fear not shepherds” (Luke 2:9-12). 

“The LORD is my light and my salvation—whom shall I fear: The LORD is the stronghold of my life—of whom shall I be afraid… In the day of trouble he will keep me safe in his dwelling.” Psalm 27:1,2,5 

Let’s Pray 

Yahweh, we thank You because You are with us and Jesus lives within us, we have nothing to fear. Father thanks for the reminder from the story of the advent. That I have nothing to fear. In Jesus’s Name. Amen 

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Struggling Through The Holidays 

Ujima / Collective Work and Responsibility: Team Work

While the rest of the world around us becomes excited and enamoured with our culture’s celebration of the Christmas holidays, some of us struggle through the holiday season – overcome with clouds of depression, and battles with fear and dread. Fractured relationships, divorce, dysfunction, compromised finances, loss of loved ones, isolation, loneliness, and any number of other circumstances become even harder to navigate, due to the often unrealistic expectations of the holiday. For many years in my life, loneliness magnifies, stress accelerates, busyness intensifies, and sadness overwhelms. 

There is something about this holiday that intensifies all emotions. The hype begins in October and builds up in the weeks before Christmas and new year, often making it a very difficult time for those of us who have experience loss of any kind. If, like me, you find Christmas is a difficult time, then let’s see if we can figure out a better way of coping together. 

Today, I write this word from the depths of my own experience in hopes of helping those who struggle with this season for various reasons. God’s Word and His principles of love, power, and truth are woven into every element of encouragement. Practical suggestions and challenges are presented to help navigate this and every stressful and difficult season. My passion is to bring hope and healing to hearts that are hurting, helping them break free from the burdens of stress, depression and dread, and find a new way of joy and simplicity. 

 “The Lord is near the broken-hearted; He is the Saviour of those whose spirits are crushed down.” (Psalm 34:18 BBE) 

Let’s Pray 

Yahweh, I know only You can help this pain vanish away. Father, I plead for peace and serenity as I fight the pain I am feeling during this season. Send Your hand down to me, and fill me with Your strength. God, I cannot take this pain any longer without Your help! Release me from this hold and restore me. I trust in You to give me the strength to get through this time of the year. I pray that the pain will be gone! It will not hold me down, because I have the Lord on my side, in Jesus’ name! Amen. 

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Giving: An Act Of Worship 

women wearing brown dress close up photography

When I was younger at our school play, I was asked to play one of the wise men. Can you imagine how the wise men felt, as they first looked upon our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ? As part of their worship, they wanted to give Him gifts. They gave valuable presents to symbolize the love, honour and appreciation in their hearts. 

In the same way, you show your love and appreciation to God with gifts of worship, and you can also show your love and appreciation to others by the gifts you give. As you celebrate Jesus during this holiday season, don’t just focus on the gifts you bring in the natural; focus on gifts of love, kindness and encouragement that come through the super natural. 

Today, go out of your way to show honour to others just like the wise men went out of their way to show honour to Jesus. When you walk in love and peace, that is the best gift you can give and remember what you sow, you shall reap… 

“On coming to the house, they saw the child with his mother Mary, and they bowed down and worshiped him. Then they opened their treasures and presented him gifts…” (Matthew 2:11) 

Let’s Pray 

Yahweh, today I set my mind and heart on You. Father, help me to choose the right gifts this holiday season—gifts of love, kindness and peace that will honour you and bless others. God, have Your way in my heart and let Your goodness shine through me in Christ’s name! Amen. 

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Are You Hurting?

Sad face sign

If you are hurting this holiday season, remember: 

Christ is the hope for the broken-hearted. Pain is real. He felt it. Heartbreak is inevitable. He experienced it. Tears come. His did. Betrayal happens. He was betrayed. 

He knows. He sees. He understands. He loves deeply, in ways we can’t even fathom. When your heart breaks at Christmas, when the pain comes, when the whole thing seems like more than you can bear, you can look to the manger. You can look to the cross. You can remember the hope that comes with His birth. 

The pain won’t leave. But His hope will swaddle you tight. His gentle mercy will hold you until you can breathe again. What you long for this holiday may never be, but He is and is to come. You can trust that, even in your holiday hurts. 

Be patient and kind to yourself. Give yourself extra time and space to process your hurt and reach out to others around you if you need extra support. 

Find a cause to invest in. There is a saying, “grief is just love with no place to go.” Find a cause that honours the memory of a loved one. Giving time or money to a suitable charity can be helpful, as it gives expression to the love in your heart. 

Create new traditions. Hurt changes us. Sometimes it is helpful for us to change our traditions to create a new normal. If you have a holiday tradition that feels unbearable, don’t do it. Instead, consider doing something new… Creating new traditions can help alleviate some of the added sadness old traditions often bring. 

Today, you may be overwhelmed, bruised, and broken, but there is still goodness to be welcomed and blessings to be claimed this season, even in pain. There will be holidays in the future when you will feel stronger and lighter, and these very difficult days are part of the road to them, so accept whatever gifts God has for you. You may not fully open them for years, but unwrap them as the Spirit gives you strength, and watch the heaviness and hurt disappear. 

“And in the same way the Spirit is a help to our feeble hearts: for we are not able to make prayer to God in the right way; but the Spirit puts our desires into words which are not in our power to say.” (Rom 8:26) 

Let’s Pray 

Yahweh, thank You for Your greatness. Thank You that when I am weak, You are strong. Father, the devil is scheming, and I know he desires to keep me from spending time with You and loved ones this holiday. Don’t let him win! Give me a measure of Your strength so that I might not give into discouragement, deception, and doubt! Help me honour You in all my ways, in Jesus’ Name! Amen. 

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Overcome Life’s Problems With Godly Strength And Wisdom

man reading a book

It was Norman Vincent Peale who once said, “One of the great truths in life is that you are bigger than anything that can happen to you—as long as you know it and act accordingly.” Every challenge and crisis that comes your way provides the opportunity for you to ask God to release the creative ingenuity, wisdom and strength that lie within you.  

You may ask how you tap into your inner strength: 

  1. Pray to God and place your entire situation in his hands. Say, “God, I commit my challenges to you. Show me the way through them. Give me eyes to see your solutions and strength to act on them.” God wants to help you solve your problems—and who could be a better counsellor? “I am the LORD, the God of all mankind. Is anything too hard for me?” (Jeremiah 32:27). 
  2. Sit down and lay out your entire problem, perhaps on a piece of paper. Sketch out possible solutions and pray over them, asking God to show you which one is right. When you feel you have an idea of how to proceed, move forward resolutely, praying all the time for the power to succeed. Affirm that you can do anything through the strength that Christ gives you (Philippians 4:13). 
  3. When doubt creeps in, set your plans firmly aside with a quick prayer: “God, rid me of these fears and give me your strength.” God will answer that prayer, and, step by step, you will find yourself drawing upon an inner power you perhaps never knew you had. In Jeremiah 33:3, God promises, “Call to me and I will answer you and tell you great and unsearchable things you do not know.” 

Today remember you can face your difficulties in the presence of Christ so stay close to Him through His Word and prayer. For He is stronger than all your problems. He is the antidote to discouragement and fear. Draw upon His power. Walk tall and stand up to your situation! 

“It is God who arms me with strength and keeps my way secure” (Psalm 18:32). 

Let’s Pray 

Yahweh, I need to know that you care and that you love me. Father, be my refuge from pain, replace my distress with peace, and be my strength when I feel weak and find it hard to carry on. God, help me not to fear the future but to boldly trust that you are in control when my emotions plunge me down, and when I am in despair. In Jesus’s name, Amen. 

 

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