Tag: Paul

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Singles Matter Too

Ina is a single older woman, who felt she didn’t belong in her church, as if she didn’t matter even to God. One day after a spiritual gift assessment, people with gifts of compassion and kindness noticed her. Caring people surrounded her with God’s love, helping her to experience community. Now her gifts are being used, her feedback is listened to, and people make time to listen and fellowship with her. Praise God she is now a vital member of her church community, and people look forward to seeing her every weekend at the exit, where she hands out sweets to children. Ina matters to God even though she is single. Every one of us needs to know that.

Today, single or married, we matter so much to God that he sent his Son, Jesus Christ, to give of himself so that we can show his love to others. He came to give us gifts of service, kindness, and leadership so that we may be built up and reach unity in the faith, growing and maturing in Christ. As the apostle Paul puts it, all who believe in Jesus make up the body of Christ here on earth, and he is our head. In His strength, the body grows and builds itself up in love. You matter to God and you matter to the people around you. Your gifts, abilities, and presence make a difference to your community, and they make a difference to God!

From [Christ] the whole body . . . builds itself up in love, as each part does its work. (Ephesians 4:16).

Let’s Pray

Yahweh, thank you for loving me and growing me to be a part of your body. Father, thank you for putting people around me who show that I matter. Amen.

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He Is Alive 

Jesus the Good Shepherd

Two years had passed since Paul came to the palace prison in Caesarea. Festus is now the governor instead of Felix. Felix thought he would be doing Paul’s accusers a favour by leaving Paul in prison, but they wanted more. Two years is a long time to wait for a decision from the court. Two years is also a long time to hold on to anger, but Paul’s accusers still want Paul to be killed. The devil and people want you dead when you are serving God. 

Scripture says Festus is puzzled about how to investigate the charges and the claim that Jesus is alive. He realises he has been asked to decide a religious question about Jewish customs and practices (no being a Jew), so he asks Paul if he wants to stand trial at Jerusalem. Rather than return to Jerusalem, Paul, as a Roman citizen, appeals for his case to be heard by the emperor, Caesar. 

Leading up to this, Paul says, “If I am guilty of anything deserving death, I do not refuse to die”. He is willing to die, but he must be heard. He continues to follow the plan of God to be heard in Rome. 

Today the twists and turns of Paul’s life are clarified by this truth, “Jesus is alive”. Paul was headed to Rome to testify about Jesus before the highest court in the world. Festus the fearless leader may have been puzzled, but Paul is certain. Jesus is alive, and others need to know this good news. I pray this is our testimony. 

“They had some points of dispute with [Paul] about their own religion and about a dead man named Jesus who Paul claimed was alive. I was at a loss how to investigate . . .” (Acts 25:19-20).

Let’s Pray 

Yahweh our Father, may the praise, testimony, and witness of our lives always be centred on this truth that puzzles people still today: Jesus is alive! May we shout it throughout this sin-cursed world. In His name we pray, Amen. 

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New Year Opportunities 

One day in March 2005, Ashley Smith came home to find a fleeing murderer waiting for her. He held her hostage for several hours at gunpoint. During that time, she did something extraordinary; she took advantage of the opportunity and witnessed to her captor. She cooked him breakfast, read from Rick Warren’s book The Purpose-Driven Life, and talked about God’s plan for his life and about Christ. Later the man peacefully gave himself up to the police. 

Scripture reminds us, “Be wise in the way you act toward outsiders; make the most of every opportunity”. God often presents us with opportunities to witness, but we often let them slip by because we’re not wise enough to see them for what they are. 

The apostle Paul says we are “God’s workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do”. God often places good works before us in the form of opportunities to share our faith with people who are outside the faith, but we need to be wise and willing enough to make the most of those opportunities. 

Today as we enter a new year, we need to remember that each new day brings opportunities to serve the Lord and express our faith to others, sometimes in strange and different situations. 

Be wise in the way you act … ; make the most of every opportunity. (Colossians 4:5).

Let’s Pray 

Yahweh, I have often let many opportunities pass by. Father in this New Year, give me the wisdom to see each opportunity you place before me, to do your will and share our faith. In Christ’s name, Amen. 

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Adam’s Tragedy, Christ’s Triumph

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

The first human beings were created good. You may ask the question if God created all things good, including humankind, then why is there so much bad in the world and in our lives? Where did sin come from? This question has intrigued people through­out the ages.

The Bible tells us the sad story of the fall into sin. God had called Adam and Eve to obey him freely and willingly as they cared for his creation. But they failed to obey. Because of their disobedience, the world and our lives are now filled with brokenness, pain, and sorrow. Furthermore, our lives will end in death. Are, you experiencing the devastating effects of sin around you: the death of a loved one, a life-threatening disease, hunger, homelessness, or the ravages of war? Let’s Thank God that the story does not end there.

Today Paul in scripture compares Jesus and Adam. While Adam, the first man, brought sorrow and death, in Jesus we receive new hope and joy. He goes on to say that God sent his Son to heal this sin-scarred world, to forgive our sins, and to give us eternal life. What an awesome gift! And here’s more good news: you don’t need to wait until your birthday or Christmas to receive this gift. Why not trust Jesus as your Saviour and Lord today?

The wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.

Romans 6:23

Let’s Pray

Yahweh, thank you for the gift of Christ, who came to restore us from all the effects of sin caused by Adam. We long for that day when Christ returns, and we will see him face to face! And sins will be no more in Jesus’ name Amen.

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Overcoming By Grace

Overcoming By Grace

The strength in our verse today does not come by gritting our teeth. It does not come by pulling ourselves up by our bootstraps. It won’t be wrought with statements of self-affirmation – “Yes, I can!”. The strength Paul described to Timothy doesn’t come from within. We only become strong through the grace that is in Jesus Christ.

Just like the old hymn says, grace is truly amazing, and it will carry us through. Consider how many ways grace works in our lives: We are saved by grace. We are justified by grace. We are sanctified by grace. We are to live every moment of every day by grace. And we are empowered by grace to overcome every struggle that comes our way in our daily lives. However, we must accept the grace that God offers.

Our lives are filled with distractions, and we have busy schedules. That’s why, all too often, we forget what the power of Christ can accomplish in our lives. How many times have you found yourself in a challenging situation, facing an unsolvable problem—only to respond with panic, anger, or blame? How often we forget to call upon the Lord and ask for His wisdom in our times of need!

Today you may ask how do we begin to do this in our daily lives? We start by immersing ourselves in the Scriptures and dwelling on God’s Truth. The Bible delivers God’s promises to us afresh and reminds us of the beautiful story He is writing with our lives. Are you lonely? God’s Word will comfort you. Are you burdened with guilt? God’s Word will set you free. Are you full of bitterness and resentment? God’s Word will show you how to forgive. Are you discouraged? God’s Word will lift your spirit. Are you lost? God’s Word will light your way back to Him. You can know triumph in times of defeat. You can know peace in the midst of chaos. And when fear, shame, and discouragement threatens your joy, you can stand strong in the grace of God.

“You then, my son, be strong in the grace that is in Christ Jesus” (2 Timothy 2:1). 

Let’s Pray

Yahweh, thank You for the gift of Your Spirit, who gives me strength and Your Word that reveals Your sure promises. Father, I have hope because You are with me. Your grace uplifts me and gives me courage. Grant me boldness to serve You and Your Kingdom. I pray in Jesus’s name. Amen.

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Kujichagulia (Self-determination) True Grit

man reading a book

Principle 2 Kujichagulia / Self-determination: Philippians 3:13–14 “Brethren, I do not regard myself as having laid hold of it yet; but one thing I do: forgetting what lies behind and reaching forward to what lies ahead, I press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus”. Paul commands believers to possess the attitude of strong determination.

At a time when many people in Paul’s place would be looking back in regret, wondering what life would have been like in a different profession, Paul repudiates the past and looks with confidence to the future. His strong determination kept him focused on the ultimate goal of pleasing Christ all the way to the goal, even in his chains. It’s the picture of a runner running for the tape at the end of the race, straining forward in strong determination. Paul said, “I’m not looking back with longing. I’m stretching for the prize.” True grit.

No rusty Roman chains could deter Paul from reaching for the goal of pursuing the prize of Christ. He pressed on, determined to remain focused on his mission.

Today, I’m not talking about athletes, I’m talking about being a determined servant of Christ. There’s no easy route to spiritual maturity. It doesn’t happen overnight. Remember, it’s a gruelling journey at times. So, don’t bother to publish a pamphlet on all the obstacles you face. Don’t become famous for complaining. Forget the past, use what’s behind you as fuel and reach for the tape. Keep running no matter what as guided by God, remember it’s a spiritual race. Develop and maintain an attitude of strong determination.

“Brethren, I do not regard myself as having laid hold of it yet; but one thing I do: forgetting what lies behind and reaching forward to what lies ahead, I press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus”. Philippians 3:13–14 

Let’s Pray

Yahweh, I thank you for who you are, and for everything you have done in my life. Father, I ask you to make me a stronger person who can withstand all the setbacks that life throws at me. God, please make me a person with the courage to face life’s problems, enemies, and trials. Oh Lord give me a spirit of determination to fight and never stop running this Christian race until I win. Remove my obsession with the past. Thank you for listening to me in Christ’s name. Amen.

In Reflection 

When was the last time you had to show real grit and determination?

How did you get through?

When was the last time you prayed for more courage and determination? Why not pray now? God is waiting to hear from you.

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Without Compromise? ?

grayscale photo of man in black v neck shirt with black background

Like me, you may be wondering, in a world with conflicting ideals, the onslaught of mainstream media’s indoctrination, the toxicity of immoral societal influences, and the deterioration of sound moral discernment – how do I sustain my spiritual integrity by unapologetically and confidently living out my faith? Are you concerned about those influences on your mind? Perhaps, confusion runs rampant, like an inconvenient wildfire consuming every consideration, creed, and comfort.  

In scripture, Paul, aware of alluring cultural influences, provides us with sound timely counsel. He emphatically warns Christians not to emulate cultural norms or be enticed by worldly ways when they conflict with God’s will. Instead, Paul counsels us to counter the enticing values and influences by renewing our minds. He assures us that when we renew our minds, we will discern the difference between the world’s will and God’s will and respond accordingly, without remorse or compromise. 

Today, as Christians living in a fallen and confused world, we cannot allow the world’s standards to influence how we live life. God desires to align our values and actions through his Word. When we allow God to renew our minds through the continuing influence of his Word, we inherently counter our cultural confusion and oppression by boldly and confidently discerning God’s way from the world’s way. Renewing our minds allows God to impress his Word and his will on our conscience. Our minds influence the actions of our hearts and reflect and accomplish His good work. Compromise should not be an option for Christians. 

“Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is — his good, pleasing and perfect will”  Romans 12:2 

Let’s Pray 

Yahweh, thank you that I am your redeemed child. Father, protect my heart and mind from the relentless seduction of the world. God, create in me an insatiable hunger for your Word. May your Holy Spirit teach and lead me into all truth so that I may reflect and accomplish your perfect will, without compromise. In Christ’s name, Amen. 

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Have you ever been bullied?? ?

boy sitting on his desk looking lonely

Perhaps the tyrant called you names, or pushed you around, or took something that was yours. Bullies are often puffed-up people who think losers deserve to be hassled, and those who get bullied feel pain and humiliation as a result.

Nahum, the prophet’s, anti-bullying tactic was to assure the Jews that God was still in control despite the disturbing behaviour. Nahum reminded them that God had great power, enough to fix the issue in an instant if he chose to be patient and trust. He allowed the bullying to continue because King Hoshea had done evil in God’s eyes, and the Assyrians were helping God get Israel’s attention. This was difficult news, but God wanted his people to turn back toward him. In addition, Nahum declared that God will bring justice to everyone who is guilty — eventually — but, because of his loving kindness, He often withholds His judgment until later. 

Today when we experience bullying or hardship, think before you act and ask, “What is God teaching me here, and how may I, like him, be patient and merciful even toward my enemies?”. As Paul wrote, “…do you show contempt for the riches of his kindness, forbearance, and patience, not realizing that God’s kindness is intended to lead you to repentance?” (Romans 2:4). Remember God knows, He hears and is in control. 

“The Lord is slow to anger but great in power; the Lord will not leave the guilty unpunished. His way is in the whirlwind and the storm, and clouds are the dust of his feet.” Nahum 1:3 

Yahweh, sometimes I wonder why my enemies who bully me seem to have the upper hand and beat me down. Father, help me see your purpose in affliction, and remember that you wait patiently for both sides to acknowledge your Lordship. God, may I show the same loving kindness toward my enemies in order that I may draw some to you. Give me the strength to take the necessary steps to report and expose, In Jesus’s name,  Amen. 

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A Greater Level? ?

laughing black male colleagues clasping hands in excitement together

God has performed many amazing miracles throughout history, and it’s important that we give Him praise and glory. Oftentimes, we set our focus on what God has done in the past — how He parted the Red Sea, stopped the sun for Joshua, or fed thousands of people with just a little boy’s small lunch. This is all amazing, but we must also look forward to what God wants to do in our lives today. 

In today’s verse, Paul says that “in the ages to come” God would do things that far supersede anything He’s ever done before. I believe that the “ages to come” that he’s talking about is this day and time we’re living in right now. God wants to outdo Himself in our generation! Hallelujah! 

Today, remember God is a God of increase. Where you are today is not where you are supposed to stay. He has greater levels of His favour and blessing for you. Dream big! Keep a God-sized vision in front of you always! Take hold of every blessing that the Lord has in store for you! 

“But God, who is rich in mercy, because of His great love with which He loved us…raised us up together, and made us sit together in the heavenly places in Christ Jesus, that in the ages to come He might show the exceeding riches of His grace in His kindness toward us in Christ Jesus” (Ephesians 2:4–7, NKJ) 

Let’s Pray 

Yahweh, thank You for Your faithfulness. Thank you for the blessing of the past. Father, I receive by faith todays and tomorrow’s favour, I open my heart and mind to You so that I can see the greatness of what You want to do in my life. God, use me for Your glory God. Thank You for Your limitless blessings. In Christ’s Name, Amen. 

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Don’t Worry Be Happy…? ?

photo of woman sitting on stairs

Have you heard the popular song, “Don’t worry, be happy” or the phrase “don’t worry it’s really not that bad – everything will get better.” Are these words of encouragement or could this be denial of the pain and reality, the stifling down of emotions? 

Thinking about these responses got me wandering. John had just experienced the earth-shattering, heaven-opening baptism of Jesus. He was blessed with the task of heralding the coming Kingdom – yet was thrown into prison. Jesus’ ministry and the fulfilment of all John the Baptist’ dreams of the coming Messiah had occurred. But we go on to read that immediately after hearing His Father’s affirmation, Jesus is sent by the very same Spirit into the wilderness of temptation and suffering. 

Jesus and John were faithful and knew the writings of the bible. In prison and in the wilderness, two places of real suffering,  both men recalled the words “Do not fear; I will help you”. God did not rescue Jesus from the temptations of the Evil One. He gave Him the power to resist. God did not open Herod’s prison doors so John could escape and continue ministry. Instead, the Tetrarch Herod ordered John’s head to be presented on a platter for the cruel enjoyment of his guests. 

Just as John and Jesus, it is in all places; the Jordan River, at home, in the wilderness, on our jobs or in the prisons, that we hear the words “Do not fear; I will help you.” As the Apostle Paul described it, it is in every circumstance and in everything, we are to “make our request known to God.” He goes on to say, “God’s peace shall be yours”, that tranquil state of mind through Christ Jesus. Our real God comes in the midst of real pain. 

“…at once the Spirit sent Him (Jesus) out into the wilderness…” Mark 1:12 

“(Herod) locked John up in prison.”  Luke 3:20 

“I am the Lord your God who takes hold of your right hand and says to you, “Do not fear; I will help you.”  Isaiah 41:13 

Let’s Pray 

Yahweh, thank You that even when all others leave and abandon me, You remain.  

Thank You that even when the ones I thought would be around forever choose to go, I can trust that you will stand with me. Father, I come to You with my cares and my worries concerning this trial I am facing.  Would You remind me that I am not alone? Would You tell me that you care about this and its outcome? Father, I thank You for standing with me, and I receive your strength to stand another day. Thank you that I can trust you to rescue me from this and every trial I will face in this life. In Christ’s name Amen. 

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**Wisdom Wednesdays**

man raising his left hand

‘Let everyone be subject to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which God has established.

The authorities that exist have been established by God. Consequently, whoever rebels against the authority is rebelling against what God has instituted, and those who do so will bring judgment on themselves…

Then do what is right and you will be commended. For the one in authority is God’s servant for your good…

They are God’s servants, agents of wrath to bring punishment on the wrongdoer. Therefore, it is necessary to submit to the authorities, not only because of possible punishment but also as a matter of conscience.

This is also why you pay taxes, for the authorities are God’s servants, who give their full time to governing. Give to everyone what you owe them…

Let no debt remain outstanding, except the continuing debt to love one another, for whoever loves others has fulfilled the law.’

– Wisdom from Paul – Romans 13:1-10

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Faith Through Adversity 

Keeping Faith in God During Hard Times

It doesn’t seem fair, does it? Paul spent his life serving Christ, and yet he experienced continual suffering. Why would God let one of His most faithful servants go through so much pain? This isn’t just a question about Paul; it’s an issue we face today. In our minds, the Lord should protect His loyal followers from hardships, but He doesn’t necessarily do so. 

Maybe our reasoning is backwards. We think faithful Christians don’t deserve to suffer, but from God’s perspective, suffering is what produces faithful Christians. If we all had lives of ease without opposition, trials, or pain, we’d never really know God, because we’d believe that we would never really need Him. 

Depending on your response, trials can be God’s greatest means of building faith or an avenue to discouragement and self-pity. If you’ll believe what Scripture says and apply its principles to your situation, your trust in God will grow, and your faith will be strengthened. 

Today Like it or loathe it, adversity teaches us more about the Lord than simply reading the Bible ever will. I’m not saying we don’t need to know Scripture; that’s our foundation. But if what we believe is never tested by adversity, it remains head knowledge. How will we ever know the Lord can be trusted if we’ve never been through hard times? God gives us opportunities to apply scriptural truths to our difficulties, and in the process, we find Him faithful. For example, how would Paul ever have known the strength of Christ if he had never been weakened by pain and persecution? 

“I leave you peace; my peace I give you.” I do not give it to you as the world does. So don’t let your hearts be troubled or afraid. John 14:27

Let’s Pray 

Jehovah my faithful Father, thank you for your great promises. Father, I am thrilled at the reminder of your faithful presence in my life which helps me during difficult times. God, I fully believe that I can entrust my future to you and that you will bring me into your presence with victory and great joy. Thank you, Lord, for giving me this sure and steadfast faith. In Christ’s name, I pray. Amen. 

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Sweet Not Sour

When we go on a diet, we often make a list or think about things we need to cut out. we also must examine our thinking for that’s when real change comes. 

It’s not enough to keep the bad stuff out. We’ve got to let the good stuff in. It’s not enough to keep a list of wrongs. We need to cultivate a list of blessings. As Paul says in today’s verse. 

Thinking conveys the idea of pondering, studying, and focusing… allowing what is viewed to have an impact.  

Do you want to make a list? Then list God’s mercies. List the times He has forgiven you. Rather than store up the sour, store up the sweet! 

God knows us. We can’t pretend we are something we are not with Him. This should liberate us to a remarkable degree of intimacy, but most of us run from such a close relationship with God. Instead of running from our negative thinking and desires. 

Today, if our desire, is to become more like God, the only way to be transformed is to invite Him in to look at our hearts, our motivations, and our desires and allow His observations to impact our lives.  

“Whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is gracious, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things.” 

Let’s Pray 

Yahweh, I know you are the one who “searches hearts and minds” yet because of the grace you demonstrated in Christ, I am confident that you love me. Father, my heart is sorry for the sin I have committed, but I am trying to serve you with honour. Please assist me to change my thinking and fill me with your Spirit to enable me to become more like Christ. In the name of Christ, I pray. Amen. 

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How to Use the Bible to Parent Children With Disabilities

United Nations International Children’s Emergency Fund estimates that about 240 million children are born with impairments. As a result, Christians raising children with disabilities must understand how to nurture them biblically. However, this might be one of the most difficult elements of parenting.

The good news is that you can often find guidance on how to raise your children, whether they have disabilities or not, in the Bible. Here are some biblical guidelines for how Christians should see disabilities and how the Bible can help you raise a child with disability.

Model Godly Behavior in Your Child

Modeling Godly behavior to your child is the best way to teach him or her. God’s love and wisdom are clearly demonstrated in Scripture. Using Bible verses or read Christian blogs such as When you need God, as a parent will help your children learn how to apply them to their lives even if they have disabilities.

For example, Proverbs 22:6 teaches Train up a child in the way he should go and when he is old, he will not depart from it. You can use the proverb to talk about taking care of our bodies through proper diet and exercise.

Also, you could apply to education by using verses such as 2 Timothy 3:16-17, which states, All scripture is given by inspiration of God and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness. You could apply this verse to teaching kids what is right or wrong based on biblical principles rather than just human thoughts.

Talk to Your Child

The National Center for Biotechnology Information states that it is crucial to maintain positive and open communication when parenting a child with disabilities. Listen more than you speak. Kids want to be heard. Ask your child how they feel about their disability and what they think is important about having a disability.

This can help you tailor your approach for them, which will make you an even better parent.It is also helpful when kids transition from one stage of life to another, like elementary school to middle school or high school. According to the Bible, patience is a virtue, and consider practicing it.

Children are embarrassed by their disabilities. But do not let that stop you from communicating with them on the subject or assuming anything about their limitations. Do not go overboard: You will probably have good and bad days as a parent of a child with disabilities. And that is okay!

House Chores

The Bible contains some specific instructions for believers to care for those less fortunate than themselves. In Ephesians 4:28, Paul writes, “…but must work, doing something useful with their own hands….”

He gave some to be apostles, some to be prophets, some to be evangelists, and some to be pastors and teachers. Many Christian parents use the passage as Biblical guidance on how to divide household chores among their children.

For Christians raising children with disabilities, certain Biblical principles can guide them through the challenges of parenting a child with a disability. One example is Galatians 6:2, which says, Bear one another’s burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ.

It is important to remember that while you may have more struggles or responsibilities in life because your child has a disability, you also have the power to make life easier for your child by carrying the burden together.

Assure Your Children That They Are Normal

Everyone wants to be loved and accepted. Children with disabilities, just like every other child, have a desire for love and acceptance. Take time daily to assure your child that they are unique and special.

Talk about how much you love them, how beautiful they are, and how glad God chose them as your child. For example, Proverbs 3:5 says, Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make straight your paths.

In essence, God promises He will be there for you and gives you confidence that He is in control of everything that happens. Psalm 139:14 asserts I will praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made. You can point out this verse during bath time or when changing a diaper to remind them of how special they are.

According to the Book of Matthew 11:28-30, Jesus encourages people who have disabilities by saying, Come to me all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. These reminders can provide relief for your child while giving them a strong foundation as they grow.

Biblical Guidance on Disciplining Children Born With Disabilities

It is important that Christians raising children with disabilities get some biblical perspective on discipline. God commands parents to discipline your children. Discipline is not punishment; it is simply teaching a child what is right and wrong.

Parents should use biblical guidance for disabilities in disciplining their children. According to Hebrews 12:11-12 No discipline feels pleasant at the time but painful. Later on, however, it produces a harvest of righteousness and peace for those trained by it.

That is why an important piece of parenting children with disabilities is guiding them in the right direction. One good example would be Proverbs 23:13, which says, Withhold not correction from a child, for if you beat him with a rod he will not die. You shall beat him with a rod and deliver his soul from hell.

The Bottom Line: Ask God for Wisdom

There is no shame in asking God for help. You might be afraid of what you will hear but consider it an opportunity to ask God for wisdom as you raise your children. Remember that He loves you and your children and knows what they need better than anyone else.

Trust Him when He answers; ask Him again when you do not understand why things happen as they do. God wants us to be good parents, and he wants us to succeed. Inquire of him for wisdom and biblical guidance for disabilities in parenting your children. He will make sure you have everything you need.

(Psalm 111:10) The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge; fools despise wisdom and instruction. Read the Bible and pray regularly, especially when facing challenges in raising your children. Ask God to help you understand how He can use your difficult circumstances to bring glory to Himself.

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Erect A Spiritual Firewall

The battle for our minds and hearts is real and ongoing. Have you ever been ambushed by spontaneous impure thoughts — thoughts that undermine your faith? Lots, of distracting thoughts, sometimes infiltrate our minds, especially when we’re praying or contemplating God’s Word. I ask myself are they my thoughts or are they the strategic mind games of an oppressive offensive by the enemy attempting to sabotage my psyche, envelope me in false guilt and shame, and hinder my devotion to loving the Lord with all my heart and mind? 

In scripture, Paul says that the only way to counter, confront, and combat enemy mind games are for us to recondition our minds by focusing on wholesome thoughts, and ultimately, on the irrefutable truth of God’s Word. Interestingly, Scripture uses the words hearts and minds interchangeably — reflecting an intentional intimate connection that the mind is the gateway to, and the battleground for, the heart. The devil employs psychological guerrilla warfare on Christ-followers who aspire to sanctify their hearts and minds — hindering their thriving faith walk. 

Today like Paul, I advise you to protect, fortify, and recondition your mind with a spiritual firewall. Daily and prayerfully strive to sanctify a sound mind fully devoted to purity by taking “captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ.” Throughout the day ask the Spirit to make you sensitive to any lie or ungodly thought you begin to entertain. Invite him to turn your eyes fully on Christ so that your thoughts are filled with worship as you go from task to task. 

“Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable — if anything is excellent or praiseworthy — think about such things.” Philippians 4.8 

Let’s Pray 

Yahweh, thank you for your faithfulness. Father, help me to recognize the enemy’s mind games. Give me the strength to counter, confront, and combat the devil’s mind games by erecting a spiritual firewall. God help me to avoid toxic media and immerse myself in your Word and take every thought captive in obedience to you. In Christ’s name Amen! 

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Directions

Landing in Tanzania has given me a chance to reflect on my spiritual direction. Direction, “a purpose or orientation toward a goal that serves to guide or motivate,” has an inevitable flow in our lives. In consideration of our daily direction, the above verse from Romans aligns our internal compass with the One who breathes strength and purpose into the very muscles that compel us. 

Our spiritual direction stems from faith. Paul encouraged the Corinthians to “stand firm in the faith.” Scripture tells us to take captive every thought and to align all we hear with the truth of the Gospel. Reading Scripture daily builds godly confidence, preventing the propulsion down a path that doesn’t align with His unique purpose for our lives. 

God’s direction for our lives isn’t always easy to traverse. We’re guaranteed that it most certainly will be hard in this life. Courage and strength, supplied by the Father’s love flowing through us, help our feet forge the path that is purposefully ours to trod. So “be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power.” Strength and power were ideals used to make spiritual decisions. We’re not too called to rely on our strength but to surrender to the One who is strong enough to sustain us in our spiritual paths. 

Today, Jesus Christ’s residence in our hearts through the indwelling of the Holy Spirit when we accept Him as our personal Saviour empowers us to set the directional compass of our hearts to His love. His love is perfect it’s direction was certain …the cross. He unwaveringly obeyed His Father and crushed the punishment of sin forever. Taking every one of our names upon His heart as He hung there, the greatest direction that was ever undertaken. That Power that should focus our direction …as we follow Christ. 

“Be on guard. Stand firm in the faith. Be courageous. Be strong. And do everything with love.” – 1 Corinthians 16: 13-14 (NLT) 

Let’s Pray 

Yahweh, I Praise You for Jesus’ sacrifice. His perfect love defeated sin on the cross. Thank You for loving me perfectly, and for layering my life with a unique purpose. Father, it’s hard to choose the right direction at times, forgive me for those times which have led me away from Your path for my life. Help me as we strive to be strong, courageous, and obedient to You. God, bless my heart to know the direction that You have mapped out for me. Help me to get through seasons of discouragement staying focused on Your Word and Your promises. Lord when I lose my way, remind me of who you are …Whose I am in Christ’s name Amen. 

 

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