Jesus – Page 4 – Godinterest

December 8, 2022December 8, 2022

Teaching Your Children About Faith

Is Teaching Christian Character in the Home Necessary?

You may ask how I teach my children about faith. The bible gives us a simple way, tell them about your faith and encourage them to tell their children about their faith and so on. This way, a living testimony for truth, is always kept alive in the world. Those that love the Lord are to hand down their witness of the gospel, and the covenant to their heirs. These heirs will pass it along to the next generation.

Our first duty is to our family. A person who does not start his ministry at home is an inadequate witness. Now, all people who do not know Christ are to be sought by all means, and all the highways and hedges are to be searched. But home has a greater priority, and woe to those who reverse the order.

To teach our children should be a personal duty. We cannot delegate it to teachers, or other friendly aids. These can assist us but cannot deliver us from the sacred obligation. Any substitutes are evil and insufficient. Mothers and fathers must, like Abraham, command their households in the fear of God, and talk with their offspring concerning the wondrous works of the Most High. Parental teaching is a natural duty. Who are more fit to look after a child’s well-being as those who are the authors of life?

Today I believe to neglect the instruction of our children is worse than wicked. Education in the faith is necessary for the world, for the family itself, and for the church of God. In a thousand ways insidious false teaching is covertly advancing in the world, and one of the most effective means for resisting it is almost always neglected, namely, the instruction of children in the faith.

“Tell it to your children, and let your children tell it to their children, and their children to the next generation.” Joel 1:3

Let’s Pray

Yahweh I pray that parents would awaken to the importance of educating their children in faith. God help us to talk about Jesus with our sons and daughters, so that they can be saved. My we never stop praying and instructing them in ways of God and may every house where this devotion is read honour the Lord in Christ’s name Amen.

December 6, 2022December 6, 2022

Fighting Faith

Faith-based Methods For Overcoming Stress

Several years ago, my family and I went through a difficult season. I lost my job; it was an unforeseen and challenging time in our family and in our relationship with God. Although we put our trust in Him, we definitely lived moments where our hope seemed weak and our faith, small.

The scripture shares a unique story of faith. Large numbers of people were gathered after hearing that Jesus had come home. There were so many people crowded around Jesus that there was no room left in the house, including outside the door of the place! But that didn’t stop four friends of a paralyzed man from having their friend see Jesus. Since they couldn’t get to Jesus through the front door, they made a hole in the roof and lowered the man into the house so he could be healed.

Faith is radical.

Mark 2:5 says the paralyzed man had four friends full of faith, willing to risk looking like fools. Yet, “when Jesus saw their faith, he said to the paralyzed man, ‘Son, your sins are forgiven.”

We don’t know how long this man had been paralyzed. We know nothing about his own personal struggle for faith in God’s goodness and healing for himself. But what we do know is that he had people who loved him and came alongside him who were full of assurance in who God is and what God intended.

“Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen.” Hebrews 11:1 (ESV)

Today, we may need others to stand strong in faith with us. When I lost my job, others came alongside me in faith, full of hope in an awesome God, and trusted that He would end up making something beautiful out of a difficult situation. And praise God He did! God provided me with a better job than I could have ever asked for!

Let’s Pray

Yahweh, I thank You so much that I can trust You and put my hope in You. Father, You are a good God, always compassionate and loving to Your people. God help me grow in my faith in You. Mould me and make me into the person You want me to be. In Jesus name Amen.

November 30, 2022January 15, 2024

Compromise: The Yoke Builder

silhouette photo of person near body of water

I never had a fight until I gave my heart to God. Since then, the enemy has tried to fight with me – to stop me, with a yoke of bondage, a yoke of depression, a yoke of low self-esteem, a yoke of addiction, a yoke of compromise. He tried to burden me down so that everything is a struggle. I was working hard, but I couldn’t get ahead because yokes were controlling me.

Maybe you’ve been living with a yoke your whole life. It’s been passed down to you from family. Maybe you don’t realize it. You can’t seem to get ahead. Struggles in your marriage, Your children won’t do what’s right, you have Low self-esteem, and you are lonely and depressed. But God said to the Israelites, “I have seen the affliction of My people, and I am coming down to deliver them.” Hallelujah!

Remember, God sees every yoke, every unfair situation, and everything that you are struggling with. He doesn’t just sit back and say, “Well, too bad.” No, He says, “I’m coming down to do something about your situation.” You don’t have to worry. The yoke destroyer is on the way. God is saying, “I’m coming down to put an end to that struggle. I’m shifting things in your favour. I’m delivering you from addictions. I’m removing the burden and setting you free to walk into the fullness of your destiny.” Receive it today in Jesus’s name!

“The Lord will fight for you; you need only to be still.” (Exodus 14:14, NIV)

Let’s Pray

Yahweh, thank You for fighting my battles daily. Father, thank you for being my yoke destroyer today and always. God, I accept Your deliverance from all my enemies and negative situations. From now on I will acknowledge Your goodness and praise You for Your faithfulness to me in Jesus’ name. Amen.

November 28, 2022November 28, 2022

Compromise Does Not Pay ?

young annoyed female freelancer using laptop at home

Abraham became a father, as God promised, but the pause between God’s promise and its fulfilment, spanned decades, causing Abraham to question the accuracy of God’s prediction. Like us, Abraham sought to reshape God’s promise into an idol he could touch, see, and understand. “Compromise was his answer,” he said. “I will sleep with the maidservant for this is what God meant no matter what His word says.”

Abraham forgot this simple formula, God’s plan + God’s timing + Godly trust = Godly fruit. When this equation is broken, that’s when we stumble and fall. If we do stumble, fall or fail like Abraham, it doesn’t mean it’s all over. Get up and get back to the formula, remembering always that God keeps His promises. The question that must be answered is: “Can I trust God enough to see me through to the other side even when I can’t see the edge or the end?”, and that is the question that haunts us even today as we face life’s challenges.

Today, we fear falling, failure and defeat in all their finality. We reach for the dream and recoil when our fingers find nothing but emptiness. We wonder if there is hope for us, covered in a desert mess. The problem with Christians is, too many of us are afraid of failure. God rarely makes our fear disappear – instead, He asks us to be strong and take courage. Claim the plans God has planted in your heart. Hold God’s hand and give birth to your dream. You won’t find the edge if you don’t lean and reach for it. So lean on Him and look across the wasteland, your promise is still there.

But Jesus spoke to them at once. “Don’t be afraid,” he said. “Take courage. I am here!” – Matthew 14:27 (NLT)

Let’s Pray

Yahweh, have mercy on me. Many times, I have stumbled and fallen. From time to time, I am stuck in life’s wilderness, afraid and discouraged and ready to compromise. Today I ask You to help me not make my fear despair. God, I thank You for not making my failure the final act in my life. Father, I embrace Your abundant life and I answer the hard question, “can I trust you when things get tuff ?” and I will answer “yes I can and I will” in Jesus’s name. Amen.

November 24, 2022November 24, 2022

Your Abba Father

man carrying baby drawing their foreheads

God rejoices as your Abba Father. You are His child on the authority of His Word. He ordained you and brought you forth. “You brought me out of the womb; you made me trust in you even at my mother’s breast.” And “From birth I have relied on you…I will ever praise you.”

The Father wants to cleanse your deep wounds that you received from words and actions in your family. Receive the ministry of Jehovah-Rapha, the healing covenant name of your eternal God, as He works in the core of your being. Receive His healing, blessing, and deep release. The Spirit of your Father lives in you to heal and make you whole.

The Father of all mercy is ready to bring new life. Receive His cleansing from all hurtful memories, feelings, and emotions. Jesus died to set you free. Release all pain to Him. God promised in His word that He would wash you and make you whiter than snow.

Today, be blessed as God fills the hole in your heart, those empty spaces, that bottomless pit that craves nearness, affirmation, connection, and significance – and yet fears it is unable to receive it, and runs away from it. Be at peace and receive healing from wounds caused by lack. Receive cleansing from attachment wounds, as Father-God binds you to Himself with cords that cannot be broken. God fed His Son with His words of approval that nourished Him emotionally. Be blessed to rest secure and safe in His love.

“A voice came from heaven: ‘You are my Son, whom I love; with you I am well pleased‘” (Mark 1:11).

Let’s Pray

Yahweh, thank you for my life, please heal my heart and fill me with joy. You know I lost my joy because of the things that happened, but I have forgiven those that hurt me. Now, Father, I need You to restore my heart. God, restore unto me the joy of my salvation, and uphold me with Your generous Spirit. Please put the bounce back in my step, and the smile back on my face. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

November 11, 2022November 11, 2022

Do You Want To Walk On Water

To be a disciple is to follow Jesus, even into the water. Like with Peter, Jesus beckons us, “Come closer to me. Be my disciple and learn the unforced rhythms of grace. I am the only way, so I require you to focus exclusively on me in your obedience.” Peter became distracted. As he sees the wind whipping across the waves, Peter takes his focus off Jesus, and he begins to sink into the water. His obedience is now double-minded, providing a profound object lesson in what happens when we try to serve two masters.

This is how our faith works: We want to walk on water; yet we insist on being able to focus on whatever we want. Sometimes Jesus, sometimes the wind and waves; sometimes Jesus, sometimes our careers and casual pursuits; sometimes Jesus; sometimes “the sin that so easily entangles”.

Today, when we choose to focus on our cares and worries, we elevate them to the same status as the promises of Jesus. Which is more important and which should demand our greater attention? The ability of Jesus to care and love us or the concerns we have about our circumstances? Rather than obeying the commands of Jesus, we demand He tolerate our distractions and double mindedness. We live within a mythology that says we can somehow follow Jesus yet pick and choose what commandments we will obey and when we’ll obey. But, if we want to walk on the water with Jesus, we must hear his directing us, ‘Don’t look at the waves; look at Me.’

“… Jumping out of the boat, Peter walked on the water to Jesus. But when he looked down at the waves churning beneath his feet, he lost his nerve and started to sink. He cried, “Master, save me!” Jesus didn’t hesitate. He reached down and grabbed his hand. Then he said, “Faint-heart, what got into you?” Matthew 14:29-31 (MSG)

Let’s Pray

Yahweh, I know you have called me to step out in faith, to place my life in your hand. Father, at times, we know this can be difficult to do. It’s not always easy to follow where you are leading me. Like Peter, I cry out to you, and I hear your gentle voice, “It is me, don’t be afraid.” God continue to give me strength and courage, as I walk through the storms of fear and doubt, knowing that you are right there with. In Jesus name, Amen.

November 7, 2022November 7, 2022

Dedicated Disciples ?

Becoming a serious Christian, around 15 years ago, was the most liberating moment of my life. It was also daunting. A world that once was familiar now appeared foreign, simply because most people I knew were not free. However, I knew I would need a family of fellow believers, for strength and survival.

With fervent prayer, I explored churches and prayer groups to find that “place” where I could flourish in my exciting liberating faith. It wasn’t long before one church spoke the word “home” to my spirit, as I was greeted by the senior pastor and others who had been shepherding the congregation for years. They took me under their wings and lovingly, became my spiritual family. I met other church members and enrolled in a bible study about who Jesus was and the dynamics of Christianity. Oh, and their prayer meetings were powerful.

God continued to lead me in nurturing pathways to strengthen my beliefs. The members were the epitome of disciples. They accepted, taught, and counselled me. Their commitment to my Christian maturity was transformational and something I’m still emotionally grateful for, years later. This church’s love for God and diligence in seeing me grow was Jesus in action. Though things weren’t perfect, I know they still exuded the personalities of dedicated disciples within the great tapestry of God’s kingdom.

Today as a follower of Christ, endeavour to mirror the same characteristics as a good disciple. Nurture, love, and pray in the power of the Spirit. As believers, this is our obligation. May we never hesitate to speak or act in the life of someone needing help and discipleship.

“Therefore, as we have the opportunity, let us do good to all people, especially to those who belong to the family of believers.” Galatians 6:10

Let’s Pray

Yahweh, I desire to serve and honour you with my life. Father, grant me the heart of a dedicated disciple when encountering other believers who need guidance and love. God, please help me grow and mature spiritually as I seek to serve, in Jesus’ name I pray. Amen.

November 4, 2022January 16, 2023

Wisdom Wednesday

Have you ever felt lost, unsafe and disoriented? It can be quite overwhelming. It might even be difficult to admit. I have some good news is you don’t need to worry or fear Jesus is near. He describes Himself as the Good Shepherd who cares so deeply about the one sheep who is lost, in danger and overwhelmed. In fact, his concern is so intense that he will leave the others in pursuit for the one who is lost. And He won’t stop until the one is found, safe and secure in His arms.

His primary concern is to find you. Make you safe and protect you from all harm and danger. And when he finds you He will carry you home where you belong with him. But here’s the thing, he does all this with joy in his heart. He doesn’t ask questions about where you’ve been and how you got there he just wants you to know that you are loved so deeply by Him.

Wherever you are today know that He is concerned about you, he is looking for you, you are loved, safe and protected by Him. – Pastor Sophia Peart

October 31, 2022October 31, 2022

Have You Been Tricked?? ?

As October 31^st lands, it is easy to get busy with memorable Halloween costumes for your kids (and maybe even your dog too!), spooky house decorations, and how to best fill your candy bowl with treats – but we must never overlook the origins of Halloween…

Trick-or-treating has been a popular Halloween tradition for an estimated 100 years. The origins of this community-based ritual have been identified in ancient Celtic festivals (founded in Scotland and Ireland), rooted in the belief and celebration of the god of the dead and darkness named ‘Samhain’. Poor people would visit the houses of wealthier families and receive pastries called soul cakes in exchange for a promise to pray for the souls of the homeowners’ dead relatives. Known as ‘souling’, the practice was later taken up by children, who would go from door to door asking for gifts such as food, money, and ale.

But what does the Bible say about Halloween? Well, there is no mention of the holiday itself since it came into existence centuries after the Bible had been written. The Bible does, however, have a lot to say about darkness and evil, and Halloween for some is a season to reckon with darkness itself in various ways, possibly as they face inner demons or a frightening decision to make. Throughout stories about good versus evil, you will also find Bible verses about facing demons and the devil as well as darkness and wickedness. So, without further ado, here are some Bible verses to share during the Halloween season…

1 Corinthians 10:21

You cannot drink the cup of the Lord and the cup of demons. You cannot partake of the table of the Lord and the table of demons.”

Ephesians 5:11

“Take no part in the unfruitful works of darkness, but instead expose them.”

Luke 10:19-20

“Behold, I have given you authority to tread on serpents and scorpions, and over all the power of the enemy, and nothing shall hurt you. Nevertheless, do not rejoice in this, that the spirits are subject to you, but rejoice that your names are written in heaven.”

1 Peter 5:8

“Be sober-minded; be watchful. Your adversary the devil prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour.”

Isaiah 5:20

“Woe to those who call evil good and good evil, who put darkness for light and light for darkness, who put bitter for sweet and sweet for bitter!”

John 3:19-20

“And this is the judgment: the light has come into the world, and people loved the darkness rather than the light because their works were evil. For everyone who does wicked things hates the light and does not come to the light, lest his works should be exposed.”

1 Thessalonians 5:21-22

“But test everything; hold fast what is good. Abstain from every form of evil.”

Let’s Pray

Yahweh, we thank you for these biblical revelations. I come against all spirits that operate during Halloween and any other pagan Holiday. We as Christians bind all spirits of death and Samhain. We cancel all of Satan’s assignments, against our family both human and spiritual in Jesus’ Name. I Pray that God will intervene and create circumstances that will prevent human rituals from taking place. I close all gateways and portals the enemy may use in Jesus’ Name. I seal and cover myself and my family with the precious Blood of Jesus right now. I declare and accept we are now hidden in the secret place of the Most High in Jesus’ Name. I release the Blinding Light of God on all the hosts of darkness that try to come near me and my Family! In Christ’s name, Amen.

October 19, 2022January 16, 2023

Wisdom Wednesdays

Before ascending to heaven Jesus shared parables with details about his Second Return and the final decisions and actions He’ll take to resolve the problem of evil.

One of the questions He will ask those who claim to know and love Him is – What did you do when you saw me in everyday life?

It’s a sobering thought for those who think they have this whole Christian life figured out.
You see, our life in Christ is more than weekly church attendance. There is more – He wants us to be moved with compassion to help Him when we see him. But where on earth do we see Jesus?

Jesus can be found with the least in society. He is the man who is hungry, thirsty or homeless. He is the woman who is naked, sick or imprisoned.

This is where Jesus is seen. Our response when we see Him is a key indicator of whether we truly love him or not. So the question is, when Jesus is seen are we drawn with compassion to help him?

– Pastor Sophia Peart

October 18, 2022October 18, 2022

Overcoming Offences

man in black shirt and gray denim pants sitting on gray padded bench

Some of the definitions for the word Offence are the act of provoking, annoying, irritating or causing pain or injury. It is also the reaction the offence produces, like indignation, resentment, or anger, which can lead to a breach in relationships. When someone sins against you, your flesh rises and demands retribution. But the way of grace must, guard your mouth and heart and release the offender.

The writer of Proverbs urges us to respond to offences by giving evidence of the grace of God. An offended brother is more unyielding than a fortified city, and disputes are like the barred gates of a citadel (Proverbs 18:19). A hostile relationship is hard to win back. Contention separates people into opposing sides. Jesus died to break down the dividing walls.

The Bible says He who guards his mouth, and his tongue keeps himself from calamity (Proverbs 21:23). When our unguarded mouth gives vent to our unhealed heart, we unleash words that hurt deeply.

The wise man continues, do not make friends with a hot-tempered man, do not associate with one easily angered, or you may learn his ways and get yourself ensnared (Proverbs 22:24-25). Don’t take the anger of angry people personally, or you will find yourself reacting to them in the same destructive way. Calmness can lay great errors offence to rest (Ecclesiastes 10:4). A quiet spirit will overcome great anger and turn aside the hurtful actions of others.

Today, “Let us stop passing judgment on one another. Instead, make up your mind not to put any stumbling block or offence or occasion to fall in your brother’s way”. Show the redemptive purpose of Jesus in every situation and relationship. We overlook offences because Jesus took our offences and bore them to His cross. Our motivation is in the great forgiveness of Jesus. Those who have been forgiven much will forgive much.

Let’s Pray

Yahweh, I present my emotions before you, and I pray that you set me free from the spirit of offence. Lord, help me not hold grudges, or harbour ill feelings and thoughts towards those who have hurt or insulted me. Please empower me to forgive and love unconditionally as you love me. Teach me not to cling to negative words or nurse my offences until they grow into something deeper. In Christ’s name Amen.

October 11, 2022July 9, 2023

The Best Four Options for Christian Web Hosting in 2022

Companies that Provide Web Hosting and Uphold Christian Values—Our Preferred Choices

Christian web hosting is a topic that seems to be on the minds of many who are wanting to host a website with a Christian firm, as seen by the numerous inquiries we’ve had about it this year.

Many Christians who are looking to host a website enjoy working with a business that shares their views and has high moral standards. You presumably arrived at this page because you are a steadfast Christian who manages or builds websites. The good news is that we’re here to dispel ambiguity!

As professionals in the web hosting sector, we decided to develop a directory of Christian web hosts to assist Christians in making an informed choice about which hosting providers they can rely on to uphold their basic principles and deliver excellent service.

Christian Web Hosting Companies vs. Secular Businesses

We recognize how crucial it is for Christians to work with hosting providers that share their principles, but also have a high standard of service. Meaning that just because you choose a Christian web hosting company, this should not be at the expense of quality of service. No to the country, as Christians we ourselves are called to have a high standard in everything we do. So therefore a Christian organisation that does not adhere to high standards in the first place should not to chosen purely on the basis of identifying as a Christian hosting provider.

So what does a Christian do? It can appear that you only have two options:

Choose a publicly visible Christian host at the expense of service, security, features, etc or
select a business that offers excellent service but does not uphold Christian principles.
We advise following Jesus’ advice and trying to firstly find a Christian organisation that fulfils the core principles as it is our duty to support our brothers and sisters in Christ, and your search is not successful then although not identifying as strictly a Christian company on the outside, to locate a company that produces results consistent with the high standards you deserve. Again with that being said, if there was a choice between two companies with high standards and one happened to be a Christian company, then we should definitely go with the one that identifies as a Christian organisation. We should always support our brothers and sisters in christ we’re possible. And remember, that even the largest web hosting companies had to start somewhere. They will refuse to recount the days when they struggled to get to the top. The Christian journey is a struggle all by itself. So it would be very hard-nosed to expect a newly established Christian hosting company to compete with one of the giants immediately without your support.

Jesus’ remark in Matthew 7:15–20 is well-known.

These businesses actually include Christian staff members and are very engaged in working on philanthropic issues that actively match the essential beliefs of the Christian religion and the teachings of Jesus, despite the fact that they don’t all publicly identify as Christian hosting. Let’s look at a few of those businesses.

Our Favorite Web Hosting Providers: Christian Values

The following are our top picks for Christian web hosts that, in our opinion, best represent the teachings of Jesus Christ:

DomainRooster No. 1 (Best Value & Most Affordable)

The most popular host on our website, DomainRooster is a newly established web hosting company. The lowest web hosting plan starts at $2.95/month!

The nicest part about them is that they’re one of the few hosts with US-based and UK-based telephone help available around the clock. They offer outstanding security and WordPress features.

DomainRooster has a solid moral foundation and abides by the teachings of Jesus; no websites that contain adult content, nudity (including artistic photos), or sell any adult-oriented goods are permitted on its servers. The company CEO is also a devoted Christian.

Go to DomainRooster

SiteGround, #2

On our website, SiteGround is the second most well-liked host, and they are excellent! They are one of our absolute favourites and have outstanding technology and customer service. We adore them since they have the quickest support response time of any host in their category.

You can get their services for a ridiculously low price of only around $6.99/month.

They also have a solid moral basis that adheres to Jesus’ teachings since they forbid gambling websites, pornographic content on their servers, and other websites that promote immoral behaviour. They follow the golden rule (treat others as you would like to be treated) and engage in a ton of charitable activities.

Go to SiteGround.

WP Engine #3

WP Engine is the best option available for WordPress hosting services (although they are a bit more costly than DomainRooster or SiteGround). With a ton of incredible features designed just for WordPress, like caching, staging servers, and insanely strong backups, they are pretty much the best of the best when it comes to WordPress hosting.

WP Engine has a solid moral foundation and upholds the teachings of Jesus by forbidding the hosting of websites that promote gambling, adult material, and other harmful vices. Additionally, they care for one another by managing a “Give Back Committee” that coordinates charitable giving and volunteerism for various organizations.

Go to WP Engine.

Netooze #4

Netooze is the best option available for cloud hosting services and is unbelievably one of the most affordable cloud hosting providers today. With a ton of incredible cloud hosting features they provide infrastructure as a service, vStack servers, VMware servers, Kubernetes, DNS management, networking, RDP, and insanely strong backups, they are pretty much the best of the best when it comes to cloud hosting today.

Netooze CEO is also a devoted Christian who has embedded Christian principles in the development of this state-of-the-art cloud hosting platform

Go to Netooze

October 5, 2022January 16, 2023

Wisdom Wednesdays

We are all experiencing the pinch of the rising cost of living. Fuel is at a record high, food has gone up, and energy bills are arriving that are no longer affordable.

What can we do? Many are worried about how we will make ends meet each month.

The truth is as believers in Jesus Christ we have a promise that reminds us of God’s ability to provide for us during these very difficult times. ‘The LORD is my shepherd,…’

This metaphor describes the Lord like a Shepherd who is tending his dependent flock. He is a protector who leads us to green pastures, protects us from predators and makes sure that no one is lost or goes astray. ‘…I shall not want’ The word “want” means “lack.” This means with God we won’t lack anything we need.

We can have complete confidence in Him to provide for all our needs. So why not trust, Our Shepherd who will protect us as we navigate through these tough times. – Pastor Sophia Peart

September 29, 2022December 6, 2022

Hardship

Experiencing hardship is never easy. It can be agonizing, exhausting, and depressing. There have been times in my life when I have instantly sensed God’s awesome presence with me during difficult circumstances. But there have been even more instances when it seemed as though God was nowhere to be found.

While Jesus was in the garden of Gethsemane awaiting His fate, His sweat was like drops of blood falling to the ground as He prayed. He knew that what He was about to endure was going to be excruciatingly difficult. He didn’t even hesitate to ask God if He could be spared from the suffering. Jesus felt utterly alone. Even His friends had fallen asleep during the most crucial moment in his life.

Not only did Jesus ask if His cup of suffering could pass, but He prayed for strength and embraced the will of His heavenly Father who gave Him the power to endure.

Today, no one enjoys going through trials, especially feeling alone. But in these moments, God asks us to trust Him. hard times will pass. But with patience, prayer, and a heart full of hope and trust, we can live through them, knowing God can give us lasting peace and deep joy that will outlast any pain and sorrow.

“Let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. For the joy set before Him, He endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.” Hebrews 12:1-2

Let’s Pray

Yahweh, thank You, for the gift of Your Holy Spirit which comforts me during the difficult times in my life. Father, I ask for Your strength to empower me, and for hope to fill my heart. God, I walk through this current situation trusting You and believing that You have something good in store for me and those around me. Lord, I open my heart to Your will and Your way. In Christ’s name Amen.

September 26, 2022September 26, 2022

Scars: A testimony of a lost soul

I’m all alone in this world. I don’t know what I am doing. I always make bad choices. People say I’m ugly. My face is long, and my nose is big. So is my butt. I’ll never finish school. I can’t afford cute clothes. I had an abortion. I don’t deserve to live. My kids deserve better. Nobody loves me. My parents kicked me out. My dad is on drugs. My mom is a drug addict. I’m an alcoholic. I used to sell my body. I have a lot of tattoos. I am a single parent. All my friends are fake.

If I really listened to everything people told me, I’d already be dead. But I chose a new life. I decided to take my old life and kill it. I choose to be an optimist and know that God has a plan for me. Amen.

Most people seem selfish and self-absorbed, so why should their opinion matter? I choose to surround myself with people who like me for me. Even if it is only one or two people. One true friend is worth more than many fake ones. The many who surround themselves around me for my beauty, my talent, my self-worth, or just to be in my entourage. I’m glad God showed me the way. I’m thankful for second chances. I accept myself and give second chances to the people around me. I will accept the positive and shield against the negative. Now I know I have a purpose and my talents will not be wasted. I plead with you today, for you to never give up on yourself or your dreams. Things change, and people can change physically and emotionally. Money does not rule the world, God does.

Today, it is difficult to believe in things that seem so unreal and impossible, but that is what faith is. It is believing in the presence of doubt. So, take this step of faith, tell God that you are hopeless and helpless without Him. Tell God how afraid you are, how angry and frustrated you are with life, how worried you are about the future. Just close your eyes and start pouring out to God, until you feel the weight on your shoulder is lighter. Let the tears, all the hurts and pain pour out from your heart. It is between you and God, no one else. There’s no pretence, no hiding, no holding back. Be transparent in front of Jesus, lay all your junk and burden at His feet, for it is not for us to carry all these burdens in life. It was never meant to be ours to bear. Our bondage has been broken. Today, we bind ourselves to chains, when the key to these chains is in our hands. Let’s make Jesus’ death worthwhile. Go back to basics, go back to your first love, and go back to the roots of why you call yourself a Christian. Going back to basics is always the best move to make when you find yourself lost.

“For the Son of Man came to seek and to save the lost.” Luke 19:10

Let’s Pray

Yahweh, thank you for your unconditional love. Father, it is because of your great love that I live in the freedom that Jesus has given me. Thank you for opening my eyes to the truth that is found in your Word. Mighty Saviour, thank you for rescuing me from the kingdom of darkness into your kingdom of light. God, I am so heartbroken because some of my family and friends have not accepted Christ, as their Lord and saviour. Please Lord, use me as your vessel to go and tell them the gospel so that they can become part of your family. In Christ’s name, I believe and pray, Amen.

September 21, 2022September 21, 2022

Letting Go

One of my favourite bible stories is the Prodigal Son. Watching the father allow his youngest son to leave home and experience life reminds me of the challenges parents face daily. The process of growing and maturing is not always pleasant to watch. We cannot raise strong, responsible children or even spiritual sons and daughters by shielding them from all pain and hardships, especially those that come from their own decisions. Often it is the pain that leads them to the arms of the Father.

Today’s parents of older teens and young adults must release control and learn to trust God in the process. Looking back at the Father in the parable, he knew that he had to allow his son to leave. But he also knew that he could trust the Lord with what was precious to him, the life of his son.

Today, we too must trust God and allow our heavenly Father to mature our children and bring them to His perfect stature. Just as the prodigal son came to himself realizing that he had it better with his father, our seed will as well. It may not be an easy transition, but it is a necessary one. Our children may need a pig pen experience (trial) to come to their heavenly Father. Trying to shield them may lengthen the process of conversion.

“The Lord will perfect that which concerns me; Your mercy and loving-kindness, O Lord, endures forever–forsake not the works of Your own hands.” Psalm 138:8 (Amplified Bible)

Let’s Pray

Yahweh, grant us the grace to trust you with the lives of those we love. Father, teach us continually how to guide our children in wisdom and truth. God as we commit them to you, I ask that you reassure us daily that you will complete the work that you have begun in them. In Jesus name Amen.