Tag: wearyourfaith

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It’s Time To Grow Up 

women wearing brown dress close up photography

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

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

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

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

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

Let’s Pray 

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

In Reflection: 

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

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

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

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When Plans Fail 

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

What do you do when your plans fall apart? Where do you turn? Who do you run to for answers?  

In my life, I’ve had many plans fail. What about you? Have you ever had your plans fail? Have you ever made plans and had them changed on you at the last second? Have you ever planned something to work out one way, but it went the total opposite way? 

In scripture, Proverbs 21:30-31 says, “There is no wisdom, no insight, no plan that can succeed against the Lord. The horse is made ready for the day of battle, but victory rests with the Lord.” When our plans fail, we can have hope because our God never fails. 

There is nothing wrong with planning and preparing in life. However, our plans are always subject to change. Solomon also tells us, “Many are the plans in a person’s heart, but it is the Lord’s purpose that prevails.” If we are faithful no matter what happens in our lives, God’s purpose for us always comes through. 

Today, our heavenly Father wants what is best for us. We serve a great God who gives good gifts to His children. He loves us so much that He promises us an abundant life. So, we can trust that His plans are better than ours. And even when it feels like everything is going wrong, He is using those circumstances to bring us to where He wants us to go. So next time your plans fail, take hope in the truth that God’s purpose for your life will prevail. 

“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” Jeremiah 29:11 

Let’s Pray 

Yahweh, thank you for another year to serve you and be your hands and feet. I’ve made my plans for this year and now I lay them at your feet because you know best. 

If these are the things you want me to do, I pray that you’ll give me the energy, focus and discipline to get them done. God, I’ll trust you for the outcomes. Father, if you have other plans for me, change mine, rearrange them and blow mine up. I put my confidence in you. Your will, not mine. In Christ’s name Amen. 

In Reflection: 

When was a time your plans failed, but you eventually saw that where God was taking you was better than where you planned to go? 

How can remembering that give you hope the next time you see your plans start to fail? 

What is one way you can seek God when making your plans, so they more closely align with His plans for you? 

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Parenting For Eternity

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

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

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

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

Ways Eternity Should Change How We Think As Parent 

 

We Realize our kids are not our own. 

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

We will Have different priorities. 

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

We will encourage and celebrate differently. 

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

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

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

 

Let’s Pray 

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

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How To Make Most Of The New Year

Blessed Are the Peacemakers

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Let’s Pray

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

In Reflection

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

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Nia / Purpose: Seeking God First

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

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

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

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

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

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

Let’s Pray

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

In Reflection

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

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

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

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

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Ujamaa / Cooperative Economics: Working Together

Biblical Quotes and Ways to help you Overcome Rejection

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

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

  1. Sacrifice is loving your neighbour as yourself.

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

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

  1. Sacrifice is putting others first.

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

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

  1. Sacrifice without grumbling.

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

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

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

Let’s Pray

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

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Ujima / Collective Work and Responsibility: Team Work

Ujima / Collective Work and Responsibility: Team Work

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

Let’s Pray

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

In Reflection 

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

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

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

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Umoja (unity) Christ Prayed For Unity

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

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

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

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

 

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

Let’s Pray 

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

In Reflection 

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

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

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

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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. 

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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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Blessings For Everyone

a man praying with a woman

God has a blessing for everyone that will cause us to rise from lack into abundance! It will take you from barely getting by, to more than enough. God’s blessing brings supernatural increase and peace of mind. We were never created to drag through life constantly struggling. God has commanded blessings when we come into agreement with His Word, in our minds and actions. 

In Deuteronomy 28, Scripture tells us that if we will live a life of honour and obedience, then blessings will overtake us. It says that we will be blessed in the city and blessed in the country. God will open up to you His good treasury and cause you to lend and not borrow. He will make you plenteous in goods and give you a surplus in all areas of your life. 

Today, let this thought sink deep down into your spirit: the Creator of the universe has commanded blessings just for you. Receive it today and choose to follow Him in everything you do! 

“If you fully obey the LORD your God and carefully follow all His commands I give you today, the LORD your God will set you high above all the nations on earth. All these blessings will come on you and accompany you if you obey the LORD your God.” (Deuteronomy 28:1–2, NIV) 

Let’s Pray 

Yahweh, thank You for all Your blessings. Father, I receive Your truth which sets me free. God, help me, by Your Spirit, to follow Your commands, so that I may live a life that brings You honour, in Christ’s Name! Amen.

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Blessed With Benefits

family bonding during quarantine

When you obey God’s Word and have an attitude of excellence and integrity, the Bible says that God’s blessings will overtake you. You won’t be able to outrun the good things of God no matter how hard you try. He will daily load you with benefits! You won’t have to go chasing after blessings. When you chase after God each and every day, when you make Him your highest priority, the blessings will automatically follow.  

Today, as we approach the end of 2022, why not make obeying God top of your new years list. Let go of any weights or sins that you know are holding you back. Be willing to deal with any issues God brings to light. Don’t give in to compromise and temptation, all that does is keep you from God’s best. Instead, make the decision to daily put Him first and keep your heart pure before Him. Then get ready, because His blessings will chase you down as He daily loads you with benefits! Hallelujah!   

“Blessed be the Lord, who daily loads us with benefits…” (Psalm 68:19, NKJV)  

Let’s Pray  

Yahweh, today I dedicate every area of my life to You. Father, help me to live a life of integrity and honour. Almighty God, thank You for daily loading me with blessings as I put You first in everything that I do, in Christ’s Name! Amen. 

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Have You Ever Been Bullied? Pt4? ?

multiethnic male students gossiping about sad crying woman

Have there been people in your life that have caused you trouble? Like the youth say, “they just keep getting in your face.” In the Bible, Hezekiah was faced with enemies coming against him, causing him trouble, trying to keep him from his destiny. But Hezekiah didn’t get upset. He just kept abiding, kept being faithful and putting God first. In 2 Kings 19, God said, “Hezekiah, I Myself will come against this enemy. He will receive word that he is needed at home, and I will cause him to want to return and he will be defeated.” 

Today, when you abide in God, He says, “I will come against your enemies. I will come against that sickness. I will come against those who oppose you.” It says God is the one who caused Hezekiah’s enemy to turn around. That means God can cause that unfair boss to take early retirement. God can cause that neighbour that’s giving you so much trouble, to decide to pack up and move. God can cause that classmate to be transferred to another school. 

Today no matter what’s coming against you, keep abiding in God. Put His Word first place in your life. Honour Him in all that you do. Let Him fight your battles and bring you into the land of victory He has prepared for you! 

“With him is an arm of flesh; but with us is the LORD our God, to help us and to fight our battles…” (2 Chronicles 32:8, NKJV) 

Let’s Pray 

Yahweh, I bless You and praise You today because You are good! Father, thank You for Your good and precious promises. I submit my ways to You, and vow to abide in You no matter what… I surrender my will to You, knowing that You are working in my life. God, thank You for fighting my battles as I keep myself in covenant with You, in Christ’s Name! Amen. 

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Have you ever been bullied? Pt 3

multiethnic male students gossiping about sad crying woman

The devil is our biggest bully. Daily he bombards us with challenges that try to move us away from God’s plan and purpose in our lives. You will be tempted to act out of character. You will be tempted to give in to the pride of your own thoughts, relying on yourself rather than fully relying on God. Unfortunately, all these decisions will put you in a position to lose the battle. 

If you are to get victory over the enemy, who is currently bullying you, you must learn the battle strategy from the one who knows best. God. He has strategic weapons to dismantle every attack of the enemy. We find this true throughout the Old Testament. 

In scripture, Joshua won the battle of Jericho by marching around the city 7 times, then releasing a loud shout. Gideon was told he had too many men for the battle. He was then instructed to take 300 men with him. As they went around blowing their trumpets, the Lord confused the opposing army, and they began to fight themselves.  Jehoshaphat was told by the Prophet of the Lord, ‘you will not have to fight in this battle, the Lord will fight for you’. They proceeded to battle worshipping their God and the other army began to destroy themselves. God does not fight as we fight. His weapons are much greater than ours. They are weapons of mass destruction, exposing our innermost thoughts and desires. 

Today, instead of cowering down to the enemy of doubt, fear, and insecurity. Instead of giving in to the temptation to quit. Instead of allowing the whispers of the naysayers to stop you in your tracks, I encourage you to fight back! You must stand and gird yourself with the full armour of God. Endure hardness as a good soldier and see those very obstacles demolished in your path. When you allow God to be your defence, your strong tower, He can perfect all things that concern you.  After all, He has already equipped you with the weapons that work; prayer, worship, and the sword of the spirit which is the Word of God. 

Do your battle on your knees today. Do your battle in worship. God will fight for you. 

“Praise the LORD, who is my rock. He trains my hands for war and gives my fingers skill for battle.” Psalm 144:1 (NLT) 

Let’s Pray 

Yahweh, thank You for teaching me how to fight. Often, I fight from a place of my own strength not fully relying on You. Lord as I begin to change course, teach me to be patient. I thank You for your power being made perfect in my time of weakness. I look to You when I am weak to help me win the victory in every area of my life. In Jesus’s name, Amen. 

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Dedicated Disciples ?

jesus saves neon signage

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. 

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Wisdom Wednesday

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

 

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