wearyourfaith – Page 2

November 2, 2022November 2, 2022

Our Security

During the Halloween season, I’ve been thinking more about the security of the family. During these uncertain times, the need for extra security rises. I spend time trying to figure out ways to protect my loved ones. I wonder if I am doing enough to keep them healthy and safe — and whether my plans will bear fruit for my children in the future.

The scripture today reminds us, that true disciples of Christ recognise that attempting to create security on our own, has its limitations. The highest security comes from God through the loving care He provides to his people. As the old saying goes, “The more we give, the more we receive.” There is more of God’s reassuring security of grace in our lives when we choose to sacrifice for others as Christ indeed sacrificed for us. We are reminded that, based on our generosity to those in need, Christ promises to help us by pouring out a good blessing on us. When we fulfil this call, God will generously provide us with the spiritual abundance and the divine safety net we seek.

Today, don’t forget this biblical truth from the life of Christ. He lived his life journeying from one community to another, caring for the sick, feeding the poor, and comforting lost souls. So, it should be with our lives. As disciples we should be inspired to serve others by the depth of God’s care and love for us. This is how we secure ourselves and our families.

“Give, and it will be given to you. A good measure, pressed down, shaken together and running over, will be poured into your lap. For with the measure you use, it will be measured to you.” Luke 6:38

Let’s Pray

Yahweh, I am grateful for your outpouring of reassuring grace during those times when I feel most vulnerable and unsafe. Father, as your disciple, give me the grace and knowledge to fulfil the role of freely providing your people with the support they need in times of uncertainty and vulnerability. In Jesus’s name, Amen.

November 1, 2022November 1, 2022

Living with Integrity

Living with Integrity

Integrity is something that seems to have disappeared from our society, yet it is such a powerful attribute in the life of the believer. Integrity means that you are dependable. You are a person of your word. You are consistent and honest.

You may say, “Oh, I’m a pretty good person”, “I do the right thing most of the time…” But understand, it’s the little foxes that spoil the vine. Don’t allow the little things to keep you from your destiny; choose integrity — even when no one is looking. For instance, you might need some paper at home, but you shouldn’t take supplies from the office. Or you might be running into a store for just a minute, but don’t park in the handicap parking spot unless you’re supposed to. If the checkout clerk makes a mistake and gives you too much money back, that’s not God’s provision, that’s a test of integrity!

Today remember, if you’ll be faithful and choose integrity in the little things, God will make you ruler over much. Don’t forget, “what goes around comes around.” Be a person of integrity and open the door for God’s blessing and honour all the days of your life!

“The Lord judges the people; judge me, O Lord, and do me justice according to my righteousness [my rightness, justice, and right standing with You] and according to the integrity that is in me” (Psalm 7:8, AMP)

Let’s Pray

Yahweh, today I commit to living a life of integrity in every area of my life. God, I choose Your life of excellence and ask for Your hand of favour. Father, make me a person of integrity; dependable, consistent, honest and a person of my word. Show me any area that is not pleasing to You so that I can continue to grow and increase in You. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

October 31, 2022October 31, 2022

Have You Been Tricked?? ?

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

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

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

1 Corinthians 10:21

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

Ephesians 5:11

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

Luke 10:19-20

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

1 Peter 5:8

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

Isaiah 5:20

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

John 3:19-20

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

1 Thessalonians 5:21-22

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

Let’s Pray

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

October 27, 2022October 27, 2022

Is Your Life On Autopilot??

As we move swiftly through this year, It’s easy to get stuck in a rut and go into next year on autopilot. Doing the same things, with the same problems, the same struggles and on the same income. But, because God is such a dynamic God, He wants us to rise higher and continually grow and reach new levels.

What I sense in my spirit is that something massive is about to happen within the next year, not negative but exceptional; you will see promises come to pass; you will accomplish your dreams. It’s going to be a season of surprises; God will amaze you with His goodness!

Is there an area in your life that you’ve struggled with? It seems like you just can’t get ahead? Well, you better get ready. This may be the year things are going to change. God is about to release His favour in a greater way in your life. You’ve sown the seeds. You’ve planted. You’ve watered. You’ve been faithful. Now you’re about to come into harvest.

Today, as we think about the rest of this year and the next, get ready and begin to declare with boldness, confidence, and faith, “This is my time for a breakthrough! This is my season! This is my ‘above and beyond’ moment, and I receive victory in Christ’s!” Hallelujah!

“Get ready! This is the day the Lord will give you victory…!” (Judges 4:14, NLT)

Let’s Pray

Yahweh, thank You for Your faithfulness in my life. Father, today, I choose to take the limits off my thinking and lift my eyes to You as I end this year strong. God help me to see the good things You have in store for my future now and in the year to come. In Christ’s Name. Amen.

October 15, 2022October 15, 2022

Why We Get Into Trouble?

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

Whilst talking to a young person on my radio show about street life, stabbings and shootings (which is on the increase in our communities) I am realising that folk act first and think later. One of the characteristics of a prudent person, is that they give thought to their ways. Too many people today just act, or react, based on their emotions or circumstances. They let the world around them determine and dictate how they should feel, or what they should do. They believe the media hype with all kinds of negatives. Don’t let that be you!

Please give thought to your ways. Submit every decision to the Lord in prayer, and allow Him to direct you from inside your heart. Don’t believe everything you hear. Let the Lord guide your steps.

Today, as you take time to meditate before the Lord, submit your plans to Him. Proverbs says that your ways will be established. You will find supernatural peace that passes understanding, and you will live in success all the days of your life. Please give thought to your ways!

“The simple believe anything, but the prudent give thought to their steps.” (Proverbs 14:15, NIV)

Let’s Pray

Yahweh, thank You for Your faithfulness to me. Thank You for guiding and directing my steps. Father, help me each day to give thought to my ways, and follow the good plan You have for me. God, teach me to stop being reactive and instead become proactive. God, I don’t want to act first and think later, so I give You my mind. Please control my thoughts in Christ’s name! Amen.

October 13, 2022July 9, 2023

Favour in Store For You

Today’s scripture talks about how time and chance will come together for every person. In other words, there are moments of favour that God has already released into your future. If you let that thought sink down into your heart, it will change your whole outlook on your future.

People miss out on the good things because they allow fear to distract them and hold them back. They say, “What if I fail?” “What if they don’t like me?” “What if I make a mistake?” However, “What if you do succeed?” “What if they do like you?” “What if you do it better than anyone else?” – that’s what expecting God’s goodness and favour is.

Today go out with an attitude of faith and expectancy and you’ll see the good things God has in store for you. You’ll walk into divine moments of favour, moments of blessing, and moments of increase. Get ready to embrace all the good things God has for you!

I returned, and saw under the sun, that the race is not to the swift, nor the battle to the strong, neither yet bread to the wise, nor yet riches to men of understanding, nor yet favour to men of skill; but time and chance happeneth to them all. Ecclesiastes 9:11, NIV.

Let’s Pray

Yahweh, thank You for the good things You have in store for my future. Thank You for Your peace and joy that surrounds my every step. Father, I choose to keep my heart focused on the blessings you have for me today and in my future, in Christ’s name. Amen.

October 11, 2022July 9, 2023

The Best Four Options for Christian Web Hosting in 2022

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

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

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

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

Christian Web Hosting Companies vs. Secular Businesses

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

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

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

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

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

Our Favorite Web Hosting Providers: Christian Values

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

DomainRooster No. 1 (Best Value & Most Affordable)

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

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

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

Go to DomainRooster

SiteGround, #2

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

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

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

Go to SiteGround.

WP Engine #3

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

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

Go to WP Engine.

Netooze #4

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

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

Go to Netooze

October 10, 2022July 9, 2023

Good Gifts

God is a good God and He has good gifts for His children! He wants to bless you with provision and supply all your needs according to His riches in glory. He wants to pour out His abundant favour on you and cause everything you touch to prosper. He wants to bless you with spiritual gifts and make you strong in your inner being. He wants you to enjoy your job and be proud of your work each day. These are all gifts from God.

Today, understand that every good gift from God is meant to draw us closer to Him. He is good and faithful, and He is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him. Seek Him today and experience the life of blessing He has in store for you!

Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows. James 1:17

Let’s Pray

Yahweh, thank You for Your good and perfect gifts. Father, I open my heart to You and ask that You help me see Your goodness. Please draw me to You, fill me with Your peace and joy, as I follow You all the days of my life. In Christ’s name, Amen.

October 4, 2022October 4, 2022

It’s Time To Retrain Your Mind

As we come to the final days of 2022 let's read Psalm 23.

Repeatedly I hear people say, “I just want to be happy.” Many people today don’t realize that the reason they’re not happy, the reason they’re not enjoying life, is simply that they’ve trained their minds in the wrong direction. They’ve trained their minds to worry. They’ve trained their minds to complain. They’ve trained their minds to see the negative. But just as you can form these negative mindsets, you can retrain your mind according to the Word of God and form godly mindsets.

One of the keys to retraining your mind and developing a positive attitude is by learning to stay grateful. When you stay grateful, you are focusing on what’s right rather than what’s wrong. The seed of the Word takes root in the good ground of your heart. This doesn’t happen automatically; you must discipline yourself. You must make a conscious effort every single day until a good habit is formed.

Today, remember when you live with an attitude of praise and thanksgiving, you are shielding yourself from the attacks of the enemy. The seeds of discouragement cannot take root in a grateful heart. Neither can bitterness, envy, or strife. So, retrain your mind and be empowered with His strength to overcome in every area of your life!

“Do not be conformed to this world (this age), [fashioned after and adapted to its external, superficial customs], but be transformed (changed) by the [entire] renewal of your mind…” (Romans 12:2, AMP)

Let’s Pray

Yahweh, I surrender my thoughts and mind to You. Father, help me retrain my thoughts so that they are in line with Your Word and Your will. God, show me how to have lasting happiness no matter how things turn out. I claim joy over sadness and contentment over confusion. I choose to have an attitude of faith and expectancy . Thank You for empowering me to live the life You have for me, in Christ’s name. Amen.

September 30, 2022September 30, 2022

Don’t Get Yourself Into Trouble

Talking to young people about these stabbings and shootings that are on the increase in our communities, I’m realising that folk act first and think later. One of the characteristics of a prudent person is that they give thought to their ways. Too many people today just act or react, based on their emotions or circumstances. They let the world around them determine and dictate how they should feel, or what they should do.

They believe the media hype with all kinds of negatives. When the economy is up, they are up. When the economy is down, they are down. When negative things are said about them, or they hear that things are said about them, they react. Don’t let that be you!

Today, please give thought to your ways. Submit every decision to the Lord in prayer and allow Him to direct you from inside your heart. Don’t believe everything you hear. Let the Lord guide your steps. As you take time to meditate before the Lord and submit your plans to Him, Proverbs says that your ways will be established. You will find supernatural peace that passes understanding, and you will live in success all the days of your life. Please give thought to your ways!

“The simple believe anything, but the prudent give thought to their steps.” (Proverbs 14:15, NIV)

Let’s Pray

Lord, thank You for Your faithfulness to me. Thank You for guiding and directing my steps. Father, please, I beg You to help me each day to give thought to my ways and follow the good plan You have for me. Teach me oh God to stop being reactive, but to be proactive. God, no longer do I want to act first and think later, so I give You, my mind. Please control my thoughts in Jesus’ name! Amen.

September 29, 2022December 6, 2022

Hardship

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

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

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

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

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

Let’s Pray

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

September 24, 2022September 24, 2022

Oh God I Need A Fresh Start

Do you need a fresh start? Even as believers and ministers in Christ, we’ve all sinned, made mistakes and made some wrong choices. The Bible says that all have sinned and fallen short of the glory of God. But the good news is that we don’t have to stay separated from God in our sin. God wants us to come to Him so He can forgive us, cleanse us and give us a fresh start.

No matter what happened yesterday, last week, last year or even five minutes ago, God is waiting for you with open arms. Don’t let the enemy or people condemn you and lie to you this year. God is not mad at you. He loves you more than you know and longs to restore everything in your life.

Today, I admonish you to confess your sins to God, and allow Him to cleanse you and give you a fresh start. Choose to forgive others so that you can receive God’s forgiveness. Ask the Holy Spirit to keep you close so that you can live a life pleasing to Him. As you draw close to God, He will draw close to you, and show you His great love and blessings all the days of your life! Hallelujah!

“If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness” (1 John 1:9, ESV)

Let’s Pray
Yahweh, thank You for receiving me just as I am, with all my deliberate sins, faults, mistakes, and bad habits. Father, I cry out in confession of my sins to You, and ask You to cleanse me. Please help me make a fresh start today. I choose to forgive others so that You can forgive me. God, keep me close to You in this coming year, so that I can live a life that is pleasing to You. Thank You for not condemning me and for setting me free, in Jesus’ name! Amen.

September 20, 2022September 20, 2022

Pain Has Value

When it comes to standing in someone else’s shoes and feeling what others feel, the most frequently neglected area in which we do this is the area of pain.

John Fischer says

You can’t bring a cup of cold water to someone if you’ve never thirsted

You can’t heal a heart if your heart’s never been broken

You can’t forgive a sin that you’ve never done

Or you never thought you could do

Put that bandage away it’s too small to cover the wound

from “Cup of Cold Water”

Everyone in this society seemed obsessed with pain relief. Doctors, druggists, chiropractors, psychiatrists, and psychologists are all banded together in this fight against the common enemy “pain” both physical and mental. Rarely do you hear that pain might be a good thing, but it can be. It may not be good in and of itself, but it can be good in what it accomplishes. What can pain accomplish?

Pain is an indicator that something is wrong.

Pain opens us up to our real needs.

Pain helps us identify with others.

Pain reminds us of our limitations.

Pain can open your heart if you let it.

Pain grounds us in our humanity.

Pain is a big part of love; you can’t live or love without it.

All those blues songs about love and heartbreak may not be so trite after all. If love doesn’t hurt, then it’s not very deep they say. Ask Jesus about the pain of love, and He would point to that cruel cross, “My God, why have you forsaken me?” (Mark 15:34)

Pain is perhaps one of the most important ways, we can touch another human being. It’s one thing to share the same joy – high five at a football game over a touchdown, – it’s another, deeper thing to share the same pain.

Today many are convinced that they are alone in their pain – that no one else has experienced the pain they feel – until someone comes along who has, and suddenly, they are not alone any longer. It doesn’t make the pain any more bearable, but it does make a relationship more empathetic, and real with a deeper appreciation. Pain is a great humbler and motivator it’s hard to say thank you to God for pain but I am.

Let’s Pray

Yahweh, thank you for the wounds and scars. Father, I pray that my scars never heal, and these wounds help me to depend on you. God thank you for teaching me the value of pain. In Christ’s name Amen

September 19, 2022September 22, 2022

A Christian Queen

As the world mourns the death and celebrates the life of Queen Elizabeth II, It’s often forgotten that she has the title of Supreme Governor of the Church of England. This title reflects her genuine Christian faith, which she often spoke about, and how Jesus was her inspiration who kept her going in good times and bad.

As hard as it was at times, listening to all the colonialist rhetoric, here are some inspirational quotes testifying of her love and acceptance of Christ and His word.

“For me, as a Christian, one of the most important teachings is contained in the parable of the Good Samaritan, when Jesus answers the question, ‘Who is my neighbour?’ It is a timeless story of a victim of a mugging who was ignored by his own countrymen but helped by a foreigner – and a despised foreigner at that. The implication drawn by Jesus is clear. Everyone is our neighbour, no matter what race, creed or colour. The need to look after a fellow human being is far more important than any cultural or religious differences.” (Christmas message, 2004)

“I know just how much I rely on my own faith to guide me through the good times and the bad. Each day is a new beginning, I know that the only way to live my life is to try to do what is right, to take the long view, to give of my best in all that the day brings, and to put my trust in God. Like others of you who draw inspiration from your own faith, I draw strength from the message of hope in the Christian gospel.” (Christmas message, 2002)

“For me, the life of Jesus Christ, the Prince of Peace, whose birth we celebrate today, is an inspiration and an anchor in my life. A role model of reconciliation and forgiveness, he stretched out his hands in love, acceptance and healing. Christ’s example has taught me to seek to respect and value all people, of whatever faith or none.” (Christmas message, 2014)

Today, this quote from Queen Elizabeth II holds so much meaning as a she says, “It is true that the world has had to confront moments of darkness this year, but the Gospel of John contains a verse of great hope, often read at Christmas carol services: ‘The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it’… Despite being displaced and persecuted throughout his short life, Christ’s unchanging message was not one of revenge or violence but simply that we should love one another.” (Christmas message, 2015)

Seek the prosperity of the city to which I have sent you as exiles. Pray to the LORD on its behalf, for if it prospers, you too will prosper.” Jeremiah 29:7

Let’s Pray

Yahweh thank you for life and all its ups and downs. Father, please comfort those that mourn today, including the royal family. We pray for strength and comfort as they go through the burial of their mother, grandmother, and auntie. In your Word you say, “…I urge that petitions, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgiving be offered for everyone— for Kings and all those in authority— so that we may lead tranquil and quiet lives in all godliness and dignity. This is good and pleasing in the sight of God our Savior,…” In Christ’s Name, Amen.

September 15, 2022September 15, 2022

Joy and Pain

Recently, I watched a friend bury her daughter. Her heart was breaking apart with grief. The loss and loneliness are crushing burdens she carries every day. It seems almost sacrilegious to read today’s verse about rejoicing when we face trials with respect to my friend’s circumstances. Does God expect her to rejoice in this devastating sorrow?

Do you see the joy and pain in this verse? God’s adoption plan was to send His only Son to die in our place. What pain! What sorrow! Pain and Joy. They seem so opposed to one another and yet, their mutual presence is at the core of God’s rescue plan for us!

Joy comes from knowing God and trusting His way. Joy comes from the deep springs of the soul. It doesn’t happen overnight; it’s developed over time and hardship as we grab hold of God’s hand and put one foot in front of the other pain will become Joy. Jesus said, “In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.”

Today, choose joy in the pain of your circumstances. Ask yourself what blessings are there in your pain. Take some time to focus on the good, instead of the bad and list your blessings and see God’s goodness in your life. I implore you to embrace the joy and the pain in your life.

“We can rejoice, too, when we run into problems and trials, for we know that they help us develop endurance. And endurance develops strength of character, and character strengthens our confident hope of salvation. And this hope will not lead to disappointment.” Romans 5:3-4 (NLT)

Let’s Pray

Yahweh, Omnipotent, all-powerful God, I come to You today, thanking You that You listen when I pray. Father, I come to You asking to be delivered from all my troubles and pain. God, I ask for Your angels to be my guard to surround and defend me. I know that I will have joy because I come to You for refuge, and you will never turn me away. I have tasted and seen that You are good in my past knowing that you never change. In Christ’s name Amen.

September 12, 2022September 12, 2022

Your Faith Will Meet Your Needs

Many people think that when they have a need, God will just automatically meet it. Though Christ definitely could, He is intentional with stating “According to your faith” it will be done, not “according to your demand” it will be done. This small distinction makes a big difference in how we interact with and understand God. Faith is the key.

Remember, if we want God to move in our lives, we have to approach every day filled with faith and hope. How do we get this faith and hope? The Scripture tells us in Romans that “faith comes by hearing the Word of God.” This means, that the more we indulge in listening to and reading God’s word, the more our faith will grow. Consequently, the greater your faith, the more you will be able to maintain hope in your trials and acknowledge God’s hand in your life.

Today, know that God longs to bless you. He has given you everything you need to be successful in life. God longs to meet our needs, so rest assured that even if they are not met just yet, or in the manner you’d desire, His timing and methods are perfect and tailor-made to meet our truest needs. Believe in His goodness today and take a step of faith toward the life of blessing He has prepared for you.

“According to your faith be it done to you.” (Matthew 9:29, ESV)

Let’s Pray

Yahweh, thank You for Your hand of blessing on my life today. I open my heart to You and trust that You have a good plan for me. Lord, I receive the twin gifts of faith and hope. God, give me a heart filled with expectancy and trust, that today You will meet all my needs and grant me peace, in Christ’s name! Amen.