Tag: talk

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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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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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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. 

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Patience? ?

Patience is more than just a word. It’s an action of love toward others and an action of trusting in God. As I said yesterday patience is a word I have feared for years. I constantly struggled with putting that word into action and living it out in a way that reflects Christ’s example.  

Just recently, I was sitting in an airport terminal waiting on a delayed flight for over two hours, I couldn’t help but notice how my patience fluctuates. Sometimes, I can sit, be still, and be fully reliant on God and His timing. Other times, I’m constantly looking at the clock and wondering, “When? Why not now?” 

We all have our own individual spiritual gifts. Yours may be leadership, showing grace, teaching, or anything like that. Many forget that being patient is a spiritual gift. I believe it is more an act of love as well as a spiritual gift. For, in 1 Corinthians 13:4, we read, “Love is patient, love is kind…” Although this is just a piece of the entire chapter which goes on to talk more about love in action, we can see just how important patience is within the first three words of this verse. Love is patient. While being patient, we should be loving others. 

My solution to becoming more patient and overcoming my impatience is to answer the three questions two of which were stated earlier: When? Why not now? And do I love deep enough? The answer to them all is, “God knows.” This suggests the key to being patient is faith, trust, and love for God. 

Today I declare patience is more than just a word. It’s an action of love toward others and an action of trusting in God. It is also something that is not always easy to develop. It’s developed over time – a process. Don’t feel stressed or pressured to immediately go out and try and fix your patience- experience, time, practice, and God’s help are the only things that can truly develop your patience. Please be patient while developing your patience. 

Be patient, therefore, brothers, until the coming of the Lord. See how the farmer waits for the precious fruit of the earth, being patient about it, until it receives the early and the late rains. James 5:7  

Let’s Pray 

Yahweh, thank you for being patient with me. Grant me the virtue of patience. I pray that it may mellow me and make me less irritable. Father may I be broad in my forgiveness, and never narrow, proud or overbearing. God, may no one be worse off for having come within my influence, no one less pure, or less noble and may my love and God-given patience lead to eternal life in Christ’s name, Amen! 

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God Calls Me Friend 

four men sitting on ground

Did you know that the all-Knowing, all-Powerful Creator of the universe wants to be your friend today? He wants to walk with you, talk with you and simply share life with you. That’s why He created you, for His fellowship and your worship. It’s as simple as opening your heart of faith to Him just like Abraham did. 

The Bible says that God is a friend who sticks closer than a brother or anyone else. That means He is faithful and true. People may let you down, but God will never let you down. Family may forsake you but God won’t. He will never leave you. He will never forsake you. He’ll always be with you. He cares about you; He is always thinking of you. 

Today it’s an honour and privilege to be called a friend of God! Let that sink down into your heart. The next time the enemy tries to tell you that you are alone in this world, or that no one understands what you are going through, just say out loud, “I am a friend of God!” 

“And the scripture was fulfilled that says, ‘Abraham believed God, and it was credited to him as righteousness,’ and he was called God’s friend.” (James 2:23, NIV) 

Let’s PrayYahweh, thank You for being my eternal friend today. Father, thank You for loving me and being faithful to me. God, help me understand Your friendship so that I can be a better friend to you and those around me in Christ’s name, Amen.

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Wisdom Wednesday’s Lets talk about the ‘F’ word.

Forgiveness “is” an act or process of healing, reframing, letting go, and moving on from an offense or negative experience. It can be one of the most difficult things we are commanded to do. It requires us to trust God completely with the future of our lives in a way that restores, reconciles, where necessary, and regains trust.

Let’s dispel some myths about forgiveness…

1. Forgiveness is not forgetting.

2. Forgiving does not mean you no longer feel the pain of their offense. 3. Forgiving doesn’t mean you cease longing for justice.

4. Forgiveness does not mean you make it easy for the offender to hurt you again.

5. Forgiveness is rarely a one-time event. We are called by God to forgive. When we do, it can lead to deeper levels of intimacy and vulnerability in our relationships.

The fact is Satan gains ground in our lives when we don’t forgive. So maybe it’s time that we regain ground by choosing to forgive?

– Pastor Sophia Peart

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Pray & Teaching Your Children 

How should we as parents teach our children in the way of God? by our testimony. Christian parents are to hand down their witness of the gospel to their children. And their children will pass it along to the next generation. 

Our first duty is to our homes. A person who does not start his or her ministry at home is an inadequate witness. All people who do not know Christ are to be reached, but home has a greater priority, and woe to those who reverse the order of the Lord’s appointments. 

To teach our children in the Lord is our duty. We cannot delegate it to Sabbath Sunday school teachers, or other friends. They can assist us but cannot deliver us from the sacred obligation. Mothers and fathers must, like Abraham, command their households in the fear of God, and talk with their offspring concerning the wondrous works of God. Parental teaching should be a natural duty. Who is more fit to look after a child’s well-being than those who are blessed with them by God? 

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

Today, I pray that parents would awaken to the importance of this matter, to talk about Jesus with our sons and daughters, and more so because God has saved children through their parents’ prayers, patience, and instruction. May every house into which this devotional is read honour the Lord by lifting Christ before their children daily. 

“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, create in my children pure hearts and renew a steadfast spirit within them. Father Help my children to know your Word and to grow in faith each day. Thank You for promising that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height, nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate them from the love of God that is in Christ. God, give my children perseverance in whatever vocation you give them and that they would serve with cheerful hearts as if they were serving you directly. In Christ’s Name 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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15 Book Marketing Tips Christian Authors Should Use

Marketing your book can be a difficult task, especially if you’re trying to appeal to a specific audience. Christian authors face their own set of challenges in getting people to buy their books, but there are also plenty of ways they can capitalize on their existing fan base and find new buyers. This article will walk you through some of the best ways to market your Christian book, whether you’re an author who just published his or her first book or one who has been writing for years.

1. Outreach Via Social Media

As a Christian author, you have a unique opportunity to reach out to potential readers via social media. By sharing your faith and your love of writing, you can connect with readers who may be interested in your work. You can market your books on social media platforms, such as Instagram, Facebook and Pinterest. Use hashtags like #writeyouheartout and #faithreads. Share quotes from the Bible or inspirational messages that relate to your book. Inspire other writers by sharing social media posts or blog posts on how God has used the craft of writing to change you and others around you. I was blessed when i found an inspiring Christian blog such as “when we need God”. Outreaching and being published on these type of Christian blogs can also help book authors to be found by Christian audience.

2. Reach Out With Newsletters

You can let people know about your book by sending out newsletters. This is a great way to connect with potential readers and let them know what you’re doing. You can also include a link to your book’s sales page in the newsletter. You should have an opt-in form on your website that encourages people to sign up for the newsletter. In addition, make sure that when someone subscribes, they receive a confirmation e-mail.

3. Call Other Believers

One of the best things you can do as a Christian author to market your book is to call other believers and let them know about it. You can also ask them to help spread the word by sharing your book with their friends and family. If you’re not sure who to contact, there are many free tools online that will list all the churches in your area. Send out some invitations if you find one with a lot of attendees.

4. Speak at Your Church

Start by marketing your book at your church. This is a great way to get started because you already have a built-in audience of people who know, like and trust you. You can do this by giving a short talk about your book during service, setting up a table in the lobby with information about your book or passing out flyers. Ask your pastor to mention your book when they mention you as a Christian author who attends their church. Once again, this will be another opportunity to connect with your congregation. You could also pass out copies of your book before and after sermons so that those in attendance will read it on their own time and write a review for you.

5. Market Your Book in Christian Conferences and Seminars

If you want to market your book to Christians, one of the best places to start is by attending Christian conferences and seminars. Here, you’ll be able to connect with potential readers and other authors and professionals in the industry. When attending these events, be sure to have plenty of business cards and bookmarks on hand to promote your work. You can also create a special offer or discount code to encourage people to buy your book.

6. Give Away Freebies Related to Your Book

If you’re a Christian author, chances are good your book is about Christianity in some way. A great way to market your book is by giving away freebies that are related to your book’s topic. For example, if your book is about marriage, you could give away a free e-book on “10 Tips for a Happy Marriage.” Freebies related to your book like bookmarks and notepads with quotes from the book on them will help you attract readers who are interested in what you have to say.

7. Write About Your Book on Your Website

If you have a blog or website, make sure to mention your book on there and include a link to where people can buy it. Write blogs on your website. This will help you connect with potential readers and give them a taste of your writing style. Plus, it’s a great way to build up your platform and get people interested in what you have to say. Ensure you optimize your site by making sure your keywords are present throughout the content so search engines will be able to find it. You should also consider writing guest posts on other blogs in your niche and do webinars that are related to the topic of your book.

8. Post Your Book’s Cover on Pinterest

There’s a section on this list about marketing your Christian book on social media platforms, but Pinterest is more than a social media platform. It’s also an easy way to promote your book with visuals.

Create a free account and pin the cover of your book to one of the boards you create.

Write a short description and include the link to buy your book to generate sales.

Use keywords that are related to religion or Christianity to make it easier for people who are searching for these topics or terms to find you.

Include links from other places where your readers can find you such as Facebook, Google.

9. Share Your Work on Online Christian Forums

One great way to market your book is by sharing it on Christian forums online. This will help get your work in front of potential readers who are interested in reading material from a Christian perspective. When posting on forums, be sure to include a link to your book’s sales page so that interested readers can easily find and purchase your work. Get involved with online communities related to your book’s topic. Share your expert insights and connect with potential readers.

10. Give Podcast Interviews

Podcast interviews allow you to share your faith with others and talk about your book in a natural way. If you have no idea how to start the interview, give them some background information on yourself, like where are you from, what is your favorite food? Once the interviewer knows who you are, he or she will likely ask about your book. When it comes time to promote the interview, be sure that you send out an e-mail and tweet. These tools can help get people interested in what is happening.

11. Reach Out to Influential Bloggers

Hiring or consulting influential bloggers is a great way to market your Christian book. These bloggers have already established themselves as experts in their field, and they can help you reach a larger audience. Reach out to influencers and bloggers who have been featured in major publications like Christianity Today or RELEVANT Magazine. They may be able to help promote your work too!

12. Give Away Books

Book giveaways allow potential readers to sample your work and see if they like it. You can give away copies through social media, your website, through Amazon or in person. Be sure to let people know how to get in touch with you to claim their prize. There are a number of sites where you can host a book giveaway, such as Listy and Goodreads. If you have a website or blog, you can do one of these. After that, you’d urge anyone who has received the book to post a review or testimonial in support of it online.

13. Go Door to Door

Start by going door to door in your neighborhood and asking people if they would be interested in reading your book. You can also offer a short summary of the book. If you get a positive response, leave them with a business card or contact information so they can reach you when they’re ready to purchase.

14. Submit Book Reviews on Amazon

As an author, you can submit book reviews on Amazon, which can help generate interest in your book and also help with its ranking. When submitting a review, be sure to include the title of the book, the author’s name and why you would recommend it to others. Also make sure that you write a detailed review that includes what the book is about, what was good about it, and what wasn’t so great.

15. Review Your Book on YouTube

As a Christian author, one great way to market your book is by creating a YouTube review. This is a great way to get your name and face out there, giving potential readers a taste of your book. Plus, if you have good production values and an engaging personality, your YouTube review could go viral, reaching hundreds or even thousands of people.

Closing Thoughts

If you’re a Christian author, marketing your books can be one of the most difficult parts of the process. Book marketing is more than just advertising. You also need to promote yourself and your brand as an author so that people know who you are and what you wrote.

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The State of the Union 

Each year the President delivers to Congress the annual State of the Union Message and across America governors of their respective states deliver their State of the State messages to the various legislatures. Its purpose is to summarize the status of various things throughout the land and to make a change, for the chief executive to suggest legislative action…  

I sat and watched the president give his state of the union message not too long ago. He started by saying that the state of our union is strong. He cited several achievements during his administration and glossed over several storms.  

Today, what it would be like if God had come to the podium and delivered His state of the union message. I’ll bet he wouldn’t hold anything back or not tell it like it is. 

I wonder what he would single out first. Perhaps he would talk about the rampant proliferation of pornography. Certainly, he would mention rampant sexual immorality. Maybe he would remind us that we are about to enter a post-Christian era as we have turned our back on Him. He would give reference to tolerance ‘which says we must tolerate the beliefs of others and not thrust ours upon them. He would challenge us to be bold in speaking of our faith. He would talk about a watered down feel good’ theology and modern preaching that de-emphasizes the salvation message. He might remind us that we seem to have forgotten Him while focusing our attention on ourselves and our hedonistic pleasures. Maybe He would talk about sexual disorientation rampant across our land. He would paint a grim prognosis for the land if its people do not return to him. Certainly, He would quote from Revelation. 

“But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.” Matthew 6:33-34 

Let’s Pray 

Yahweh, there are many opponents to Christians in the world today. Father, help me to have a healthy spiritual state and keep in the forefront of my mind that I am in a war, not against flesh and blood, but against the evil powers of the spiritual realm. Please God Embolden me to be a formidable soldier for You and join in the battle to fight for You. Clothe me in the Armor of God and energize my spirit. Make me bold. Make me strong. In Christ’s name Amen. 

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Crises Are A Catalyst For Prayer.

When was the last time you cried out to God about something other than personal issues? We’re often so absorbed in our own lives that we fail to see the crises others are facing. But whether a hardship impacts total strangers or hits close to home, do you ever feel some matters are just too big for one person’s prayer to make a difference? 

The Bible assures us that “the prayer of a righteous person has great power as it is working” (ESV). And the next verse gives a powerful example: “Elijah was a man with a nature like ours, and he prayed fervently that it might not rain, and for three years and six months it did not rain on the earth. Then he prayed again, and heaven gave rain, and the earth bore its fruit.” 

God can heal, bring peace, and change circumstances. And He has chosen to let His children participate in the process through prayer. He wants us to talk with Him about everything 

Today, when you hear of a tragedy or problem—regardless of whether it affects you or perfect strangers—resist the temptation to distance yourself from it. You can influence the lives of others when you intercede on their behalf. Let crises become a catalyst for prayer. 

“Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God.”  Philippians 4:6 

Let’s Pray 

Yahweh, the world is in an uproar. News reports on radio, television, and social media grow grimmer each day. Along with the global crisis, there are families in crisis, too. From losing jobs and income to medical diagnoses that shock and scare, we find ourselves at a loss for words and direction at times. Father, please guide us to be alert for ways to lift each other and to offer help when needed. Remind us that this earth is not our home. God, I pray that in each moment, our thoughts will go to You. I pray we will glean hope that is found in Your Word. Thank You for the peace and comfort found in You. In Christ’s name. Amen 

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Bridging The Generation Gap in Christ

Old and young often live in different worlds, from one generation to the next! The young now talk of cool social media sites and new apps that can be downloaded instantly. With so much technology and texting today, however, many young people are missing out on developing social skills with one another as well as with older folks. There has always been a gap between young and old, but we may wonder if in some ways it is getting wider. 

There’s also polarisation, with so many worldviews and political views. The teaching of alienation and class has deepened the estrangement between people and tried to drive God from our midst. My generation has sowed seeds of alienation, simply assuming that people would be estranged from each other, and almost celebrating it. 

Today praise God, He doesn’t abandon us to isolation. He has reconciled us with God and made new life possible for the young and old. Think how rich our relationships could be if young and old talked and listened to each other more! It would bring happiness not only to humanity but would also bridge the gap between God and His children. Can you reach out to someone today and show them the love of God? 

He will turn the hearts of the parents to their children, and the hearts of the children to their parents. . .  (Malachi 4:6) 

Let’s Pray 

Yahweh, thank you for bridging the gaps in my life and not abandoning me to isolation. Father, how sad it is to be estranged from you and others in society. God, if I’ve grown unable to communicate with some of the people around me, please give me the courage to talk, the patience to listen, and the desire to be helpful to others. In Christ’s name Amen. 

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Happy New Year – God Has A Plan For 2022

As we look forward to a New Year, did you know that God had a plan for you before the foundations of the earth? He created you to be holy. Remember as you enter 2022, He chose you to be His ambassador, His representative in the earth. He created you to reflect His glory, character, righteousness, and holiness. Think about that for a moment. Part of your purpose on this earth is to be a representative for the King of Kings and the Lord of Lords! 

Friend, because of your purpose, it should make you walk a little differently. It should make you talk a little differently. It should make you think a little more carefully about the places you go and the things you do. 

Today and in 2022, God will equip you to do whatever He’s called you to do. If there are things in your life that you need to change in order to represent Him well in this New Year, God wants to empower you to overcome. Receive His strength and might today, so that you can walk in holiness and be His ambassador everywhere you go! 

“For He chose us in Him before the creation of the world to be holy and blameless in His sight.” (Ephesians 1:4, NIV) 

Let’s Pray 

Yahweh, thank you for choosing me to be Your representative in the earth before I was born. Father, as I approach this New year, search my heart and remove anything that is displeasing to You. God, I receive Your holiness and will walk according to Your ways, in Christ’s Name! Amen. 

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The Alpha And Omega

Many talk about the awesomeness of God, but in the Lord’s Prayer have you noticed the way God wants you to address Him? Yes, He is the Almighty King of the universe. Yes, He is the Alpha and the Omega, the Beginning and the End. Yes, He is the Omnipotent, Omnipresent and Omniscient One. We should acknowledge and honour His grandeur; we should praise Him because of who He is. But, notice that God wants us to address Him as Father first. He wants us to know Him in a close, personal way. He wants to have a deep loving relationship with you. 

People view God the way they view their earthly father. If their earthly father was loving and kind, it’s easy to see God the same way. However, if your earthly father was distant or harsh, you may have difficulty seeing God as He really is.  

Today, search your heart and let go of any pre-conceived ideas about God – that He is a wicked judge who likes to condemn, or that He is far away up high looking down. Ask Him to show you who He really is – your Father who loves you with an unconditional love. Be open to receiving His love in a fresh, new way. 

“This, then, is how you should pray: ‘Our Father in heaven, hallowed be Your name.’” (Matthew 6:9, NIV) 

Let’s Pray 

Yahweh, I come to You because You are good and faithful. Father, thank You for loving me and receiving me just the way I am. Father, continue to show me Your ways and Your love, please erase my old traditional views of You, so that I will know You in a fresh, new way as a loving Father, in Christ’ name! Amen. 

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As We End 2021 Switch To Praise

Praise Him Always

After dealing with 4 deaths in 4 days I have concluded this is a hard season. We all face challenges and obstacles. We all have dreams in our hearts, and at times, it looks like they may not come to pass. When this happens, we have a choice. We can get negative and discouraged and talk about how things are not going to work out, or we can switch over into praise and thanksgiving, which confuses the enemy and will opens the door by faith for God to move on our behalf. 

People say, “I’ll have a good attitude as soon as I get over this health issue.” “I’ll give God praise when I get through these tough times.” But that’s not how faith works. As long as we’re negative, discouraged and focused on our problems, it limits what God can do. Faith says “You’ve got to give God praise first, and then the breakthrough will come as God wills it. ”You’ve got to change your focus first, and then things will change in your favour. Praise always precedes the victory. 

Today, if you’ve been dwelling on what’s wrong and focusing on the wrong direction, switch into praise and thanksgiving. Begin to declare that God is good all the time! Declare that He is faithful. Declare His praises and open the door to victory in every area of your life! 

“Though the fig tree may not blossom, nor fruit be on the vines…yet I will rejoice in the Lord, I will joy in the God of my salvation” (Habakkuk 3:17–18, NKJV) 

Let’s Pray 

Yahweh, today I come before You, lifting You up and magnifying Your holy name. Father, this is a hard season for many with financial issues, loneliness and deaths. God, despite life’s challenges I praise and lift You up, and I thank You for Your goodness and faithfulness in my life. By faith I praise You today for all You have done and will do. I bless You and honour You for Your goodness, in Christ’ name. Amen! 

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Thanksgiving Pt 2

"Enter into His gates with thanksgiving, and into His courts with praise. Be thankful to Him, and bless His name." ?

Challenges and obstacles are normal in this life. During these difficult seasons, we have a choice. We can get negative and discouraged and talk about how things are not going to work out, or we can flip the script and go into praise and thanksgiving mode, which opens the door for God to move on our behalf.

“I’ll have a better attitude as soon as I get over this health issue.” Or “I’ll give God praise when I get through these tough times.” That’s not faith. As long as you’re negative, discouraged and focused on your problems, it limits what God can do in your life. Faith says, you’ve got to praise God in advance, and then the breakthrough will come. Flip the script, change your focus, and watch things change in your favour. Praise always precedes victory.

Today, flip the negative script, stop dwelling on the wrong things and focusing in the wrong direction, go into a season of praise and thanksgiving, which will confuse the enemy and the negative people in your life. Begin to declare that God is good. Declare that He is faithful. Declare His praises and open the door to victory! Hallelujah!

“Though the fig tree may not blossom, nor fruit be on the vines…yet I will rejoice in the Lord, I will joy in the God of my salvation.” (Habakkuk 3:17-18, NKJV)

Let’s Pray

Yahweh, today I humbly come before You, asking You to give me Your Spirit, so I can flip the script in my life, not focusing on the negative, but lifting You up and magnifying Your Holy Name. God, I will praise You at all times, despite the negative influences around me, for Your goodness and faithfulness in my life. I bless You and honour You for Your goodness, in Christ’ Name! Amen.

 

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