We all want to choose the right path for our lives, but what if the right path is the riskier path? Life will take us to many crossroads where we will have to choose whether we will rely on our fear or faith. The only way to reach our destiny is through the path of faith.
I thought I was done making hard decisions in my life, but recently I was faced with another hard decision I had to make.
God had been highlighting the verse in Ecclesiastes 11:4 which says “If you wait for perfect conditions, you will never get anything done.”
I had no idea what God was trying to say to me through that verse. It wasn't until one night that He hit me with the revelation that He wanted me to pursue Living Revelations without waiting for perfect conditions.
I knew the opportunity of doing full-time ministry would come, but never thought it would come so soon. I’ve always pictured myself leaving my full-time job once Living Revelations was fully established.
But God has different plans.
It was then that I had to make the decision whether to rely on my fear or faith. Fear told me to play it safe and wait, but faith told me to trust God because he always knows what’s best for us.
Hebrews 11:1 says, "Now faith is confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see." God will not show us the full picture of where He's calling us to, but that's the path of faith - it's believing without seeing.
What path of faith is God asking you to take?
God may have different plans than yours, but trust that His plans are always better. God has asked me to let go of many good things which I have never regretted. I learned that the hardest decisions I made have always been the best decisions I have made.
Sure it was scary, but I knew that God was with me and was going before me.
God is a good father that promises to never leave us or forsake us. Deuteronomy 31:8 says, “The Lord himself goes before you and will be with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged.”
God will not lay out the blueprints for our lives, but He will lead us each step of the way. Abraham is a perfect example of one who chose the path of faith which led him to inherit God’s blessings. God asked him to leave his hometown and everything familiar to follow Him to an unknown promise land.
Hebrews 11:8 says, “By faith Abraham, when called to go to a place he would later receive as his inheritance, obeyed and went, even though he did not know where he was going.”
We may not know the end destination of our walk of faith, but God knows.
Without faith, we cannot please God (Hebrews 11:6). Faith is the only way for us to prove to God that we trust him. If we aren’t willing to follow Jesus unless we see everything laid out, it shows that we don’t trust Him.
We don’t have to be afraid of following God into the unknown because nothing is unknown to Him. The path of faith won’t always feel right. Faith isn’t relying on what we feel, but on what we know.
We must believe that God is always leading us for our good and into our destiny. His intention for the Israelites has always been to lead them to their promise land. Deuteronomy 31:7 says “Be strong and courageous, for you must go with this people into the land that the Lord swore to their ancestors to give them..."
Just as God was leading the Israelites into their promise land, He is leading us to ours.
Psalms 23:6 says, “Surely your goodness and love will follow me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever.” If we want to live a life where God’s love and goodness follow us, He has to be our shepherd.
Psalms 23 starts with, “The Lord is my shepherd.” We don't have to worry about our lives when we choose to follow Jesus. Psalm 23:2 assures us that He makes us lie down in green pastures and leads us beside still waters.
Is Jesus your shepherd? Are you following His leading?
It’s only through following Jesus that we will be able to walk into our destiny. Following Jesus isn’t about doing religious acts, it's about hearing Him and responding by faith. Following Jesus is saying yes to Him wherever he leads you.
Will you say no to fear and step out in faith? What has God been putting in your heart that you know you need to do? The right path won’t always feel right in the beginning, but we must trust that Jesus knows where he’s leading us. So remember, take the path of faith.
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Monday, December 10, 2018
Monday, November 5, 2018
Chosen and Handpicked By God
We all desire to be wanted and to know our purpose in this world. It's a valid desire because we were all created with a purpose. But many times we can find ourselves striving for attention when we've already got God's attention. We are chosen and handpicked by God.
For the longest time, I found myself seeking attention and validation from every outlet of life - my work, boyfriend, family, and even social media.
When I wasn’t noticed at my workplace, I lost my sense of purpose. When my boyfriend forgot to say I was pretty, I felt ugly. When my parents were disappointed in me, I felt worthless. When I didn’t get as many likes on a post, I felt forgotten.
My identity was easily shaken because it was dependent on imperfect and unstable people.
It wasn't until Jesus gave me the revelation of His love for me that I no longer chased after validation and love from others. I found that His love was satisfying and complete. When our identity is in the hands of a loving father, it will not be shaken.
I no longer strived for attention and worth from others because I knew I was already seen by my Heavenly Father.
You may not be seen by others, but you are seen by your Heavenly Father.
Isaiah 41:9 says, “I took you from the ends of the earth, from its farthest corners I called you. I said, 'You are my servant'; I have chosen you and have not rejected you.”
God has called us from the ends of the earth and has chosen us to serve Him. No matter what you’ve done, Jesus has already paid the price and has given you an opportunity to live a new life filled with purpose. You may be rejected by others, but you are not rejected by God. God is still calling us to be His.
God loved us while we were yet sinners. He sent Jesus to die for us so that we would be redeemed and become His children. John 1:12 says, “Yet to all who did receive him, to those who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God".
When we choose to walk with God and live out our true identities as children of God, we will find ourselves living out our purpose with ease because He is guiding our every step. Psalm 37:23 says, "The Lord directs the steps of the godly. He delights in every detail of their lives."
As we choose to walk in His ways, we will find ourselves walking into the very purpose God created us for. The reality that we are chosen and handpicked by God will show itself through the fruits of our living.
The enemy will throw lies in our mind that we can never live up to the dreams God placed in our hearts. It's in those moments when we must remember that God loves us and we can do all things through Him who strengthens us (Philippians 4:13). There is no mistake that will make God say you're no longer qualified for the call - His grace covers all sins.
We see throughout scripture that God used imperfect people for expanding His kingdom. As they followed Him, God brought them out of darkness into His light. Paul from the Bible is a perfect example of one whom God used for His glory. Paul used to kill Christians but God still chose to use him.
Jesus encountered Paul and said to him, "Now get up and go into the city, and you will be told what you must do.” (Acts 9:6) From that day, Paul got up and followed Jesus until the end of his life. Paul ended up writing 13 of the Books in the Bible and has blessed many lives until today. God used people like Paul to show us that His love for us is greater than our own greatest sin.
Jesus is calling you to get up and follow Him. Just as He chose Paul despite his past, He also chooses you.
Will you accept Jesus's invitation to follow him?
As you do life with Jesus, you will discover the very purpose He created you for. He will never stop pursuing you because His love for you is unfailing. Jeremiah 31:3 says, “I have loved you with an everlasting love; I have drawn you with unfailing kindness." So remember, you are chosen and handpicked by God.
Prayer: Lord, I thank you that my past mistakes have no say to who you have called me to be.
For the longest time, I found myself seeking attention and validation from every outlet of life - my work, boyfriend, family, and even social media.
When I wasn’t noticed at my workplace, I lost my sense of purpose. When my boyfriend forgot to say I was pretty, I felt ugly. When my parents were disappointed in me, I felt worthless. When I didn’t get as many likes on a post, I felt forgotten.
My identity was easily shaken because it was dependent on imperfect and unstable people.
It wasn't until Jesus gave me the revelation of His love for me that I no longer chased after validation and love from others. I found that His love was satisfying and complete. When our identity is in the hands of a loving father, it will not be shaken.
I no longer strived for attention and worth from others because I knew I was already seen by my Heavenly Father.
You may not be seen by others, but you are seen by your Heavenly Father.
Isaiah 41:9 says, “I took you from the ends of the earth, from its farthest corners I called you. I said, 'You are my servant'; I have chosen you and have not rejected you.”
God has called us from the ends of the earth and has chosen us to serve Him. No matter what you’ve done, Jesus has already paid the price and has given you an opportunity to live a new life filled with purpose. You may be rejected by others, but you are not rejected by God. God is still calling us to be His.
God loved us while we were yet sinners. He sent Jesus to die for us so that we would be redeemed and become His children. John 1:12 says, “Yet to all who did receive him, to those who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God".
When we choose to walk with God and live out our true identities as children of God, we will find ourselves living out our purpose with ease because He is guiding our every step. Psalm 37:23 says, "The Lord directs the steps of the godly. He delights in every detail of their lives."
As we choose to walk in His ways, we will find ourselves walking into the very purpose God created us for. The reality that we are chosen and handpicked by God will show itself through the fruits of our living.
The enemy will throw lies in our mind that we can never live up to the dreams God placed in our hearts. It's in those moments when we must remember that God loves us and we can do all things through Him who strengthens us (Philippians 4:13). There is no mistake that will make God say you're no longer qualified for the call - His grace covers all sins.
We see throughout scripture that God used imperfect people for expanding His kingdom. As they followed Him, God brought them out of darkness into His light. Paul from the Bible is a perfect example of one whom God used for His glory. Paul used to kill Christians but God still chose to use him.
Jesus encountered Paul and said to him, "Now get up and go into the city, and you will be told what you must do.” (Acts 9:6) From that day, Paul got up and followed Jesus until the end of his life. Paul ended up writing 13 of the Books in the Bible and has blessed many lives until today. God used people like Paul to show us that His love for us is greater than our own greatest sin.
Jesus is calling you to get up and follow Him. Just as He chose Paul despite his past, He also chooses you.
Will you accept Jesus's invitation to follow him?
As you do life with Jesus, you will discover the very purpose He created you for. He will never stop pursuing you because His love for you is unfailing. Jeremiah 31:3 says, “I have loved you with an everlasting love; I have drawn you with unfailing kindness." So remember, you are chosen and handpicked by God.
Prayer: Lord, I thank you that my past mistakes have no say to who you have called me to be.
Saturday, October 27, 2018
Are You Too Comfortable?
Testimony of Angeline Triyono
The comfort zone is called the comfort zone for a reason. It's the place where we aren't challenged and there's no pressure to face our fears. While the comfort zone may be a safe place to be in, it will keep us from growing to see the full potential that God has for us. Are you too comfortable?
For the longest time, I was staying too comfortable.
I didn't feel qualified to lead Bible study, and I definitely never saw myself as a leader. So when my sister asked me to lead Bible Study my first instinct was to say no.
I felt uncomfortable because I was asked to do something that I never saw myself being able to do. I could have stayed in my comfort zone, but I knew this would be the first step to harness the boldness to do God's work. I took the step of faith and said yes.
My yes led me to see God's power and strength work through me. At the end of the Bible Study, the girls were all edified and resonated with the message. I realized that there was no reason for me to fear in the first place. I'm glad that I stepped out of my comfort zone because God opened my eyes to see the potential that I had through Christ. Not only did I grow from stepping out, but I was also able to be a blessing.
Outside our comfort zone is where we get to see God's power work through our weaknesses.
2 Corinthians 12:9 says, "My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness."
Doing things out of our comfort zone will always seem to be the scariest thing, but we need to remember that through those experiences we will see God's strength working through our weaknesses. We will gain the boldness and courage to do things we never thought we could. As we step out of our comfort zone, we will find that we can do all things through Christ who strengthens us (Philippians 4:13).
Each day is a new opportunity for us to see the fullness of God working through our lives. It's easy to stay comfortable and choose to do nothing, but there is so much a stake when we choose to do nothing. There are lives who need to see the love and hope that Jesus brings. I have to continuously challenge myself to be intentional in making the most of my time even with my friends who are unbelievers. It's uncomfortable for me to talk about Jesus with them because I don't want to be the "odd one", but I've realized that as Christians we are not supposed to "fit in". We were created to be the light in this dark world and stand out for Jesus (Matthew 5:14-16).
It's time for us to wake up and rise up to who God created us to be. Proverbs 6:9 says, "How long will you lie there, you sluggard? When will you get up from your sleep?" I've been in that sleeping state and I know I need to wake up.
Do you need a wake-up call? Is there something that God has been asking you to do but you've been holding back on?
God has gifted each of us with talents to be used for His glory. We are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works (Ephesians 2:10).
Are you living out the full potential God has for you?
Maybe it's fear that's stopping you from stepping out, or maybe you have stepped out but haven't seen the results of your works. If that's you, keep going and don't grow weary in doing good, for in the proper time you will reap a harvest (Galatians 6:9). James 5:7 says, "Be patient, then, brothers and sisters, until the Lord's coming. See how the farmer waits for the land to yield its valuable crop, patiently waiting for the autumn and spring rains."
When we do God's work we may not see the results right away. This may cause us to question whether we are doing what God is calling us to do, but it's in these moments when we must continue to pursue what He is putting in our hearts to do. God has amazing plans for each of us and it will require us to get out of our comfort zones to see it come to pass.
There's nothing that God can do when we choose to do nothing. But when we choose to get up and partner with God, He blesses the works of our hands. Psalm 90:17 says, "May the favor of the Lord our God rest on us; establish the work of our hands..."
God has plans to use us beyond what we could ever think or imagine. It's time for us to rise out of our comfort zones and do the work He created us to do. So remember, are you too comfortable?
The comfort zone is called the comfort zone for a reason. It's the place where we aren't challenged and there's no pressure to face our fears. While the comfort zone may be a safe place to be in, it will keep us from growing to see the full potential that God has for us. Are you too comfortable?
For the longest time, I was staying too comfortable.
I didn't feel qualified to lead Bible study, and I definitely never saw myself as a leader. So when my sister asked me to lead Bible Study my first instinct was to say no.
I felt uncomfortable because I was asked to do something that I never saw myself being able to do. I could have stayed in my comfort zone, but I knew this would be the first step to harness the boldness to do God's work. I took the step of faith and said yes.
My yes led me to see God's power and strength work through me. At the end of the Bible Study, the girls were all edified and resonated with the message. I realized that there was no reason for me to fear in the first place. I'm glad that I stepped out of my comfort zone because God opened my eyes to see the potential that I had through Christ. Not only did I grow from stepping out, but I was also able to be a blessing.
Outside our comfort zone is where we get to see God's power work through our weaknesses.
2 Corinthians 12:9 says, "My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness."
Doing things out of our comfort zone will always seem to be the scariest thing, but we need to remember that through those experiences we will see God's strength working through our weaknesses. We will gain the boldness and courage to do things we never thought we could. As we step out of our comfort zone, we will find that we can do all things through Christ who strengthens us (Philippians 4:13).
Each day is a new opportunity for us to see the fullness of God working through our lives. It's easy to stay comfortable and choose to do nothing, but there is so much a stake when we choose to do nothing. There are lives who need to see the love and hope that Jesus brings. I have to continuously challenge myself to be intentional in making the most of my time even with my friends who are unbelievers. It's uncomfortable for me to talk about Jesus with them because I don't want to be the "odd one", but I've realized that as Christians we are not supposed to "fit in". We were created to be the light in this dark world and stand out for Jesus (Matthew 5:14-16).
It's time for us to wake up and rise up to who God created us to be. Proverbs 6:9 says, "How long will you lie there, you sluggard? When will you get up from your sleep?" I've been in that sleeping state and I know I need to wake up.
Do you need a wake-up call? Is there something that God has been asking you to do but you've been holding back on?
God has gifted each of us with talents to be used for His glory. We are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works (Ephesians 2:10).
Are you living out the full potential God has for you?
Maybe it's fear that's stopping you from stepping out, or maybe you have stepped out but haven't seen the results of your works. If that's you, keep going and don't grow weary in doing good, for in the proper time you will reap a harvest (Galatians 6:9). James 5:7 says, "Be patient, then, brothers and sisters, until the Lord's coming. See how the farmer waits for the land to yield its valuable crop, patiently waiting for the autumn and spring rains."
When we do God's work we may not see the results right away. This may cause us to question whether we are doing what God is calling us to do, but it's in these moments when we must continue to pursue what He is putting in our hearts to do. God has amazing plans for each of us and it will require us to get out of our comfort zones to see it come to pass.
There's nothing that God can do when we choose to do nothing. But when we choose to get up and partner with God, He blesses the works of our hands. Psalm 90:17 says, "May the favor of the Lord our God rest on us; establish the work of our hands..."
God has plans to use us beyond what we could ever think or imagine. It's time for us to rise out of our comfort zones and do the work He created us to do. So remember, are you too comfortable?
Thursday, October 11, 2018
A Heart After Jesus
Success is appealing, but why can we feel so behind when we've gone so far? Joy gets stripped away from us when our heart is set on anything else but Jesus. We were made to glorify Him and a heart after Jesus is one that will keep us in joy.
I started a youtube channel and you would think I'd be all excited and full of joy, but quite the opposite happened.
I was frustrated, concerned, and anxious.
I was stressing myself out and worrying about how I would bring people to the channel and increase the number of subscribers. I asked God to examine my heart during my alone time with him because I definitely was not at peace.
It was then when he revealed to me that my motives for the videos were wrong. My heart was set on seeing my ministry grow that I lost the focus on simply loving Jesus and sharing Him to the world. I overcomplicated my life by adding goals that I felt had to happen. Once I shifted my focus back to Jesus, I found peace and joy again.
My pursuit was no longer in the numbers but keeping my heart pure for Jesus. When we seek after selfish gain instead of Jesus, we will always find ourselves in a place of unrest.
True joy stems from a heart that is simply after Jesus.
Not after success.
Not after fame.
Not after riches.
But Jesus.
Sure I was doing the works for the kingdom of God, but I found my desire to see my ministry grow supersede Jesus himself. We can be doing things for Jesus but miss Jesus himself. I never want to find myself doing anything but with the motive of loving Jesus and glorifying Him.
As we set our hearts on Jesus, the fruit of our lives will yield automatically. Luke 8:8 says, "Still other seed fell on good soil. It came up and yielded a crop, a hundred times more than was sown." The good soil in this verse is referring to a heart that is receptive to the word which is Jesus. Luke 8:15 says, "But the seed on good soil stands for those with a noble and good heart, who hear the word, retain it, and by persevering produce a crop."
God is more concerned about the condition of our heart than the fruit of our works. It's easy for us to focus on success and the fruit of our works, but we must focus on our hearts. God knows the condition of our hearts and will allow us to go through hardships and testings to purify our motives.
We will find ourselves dissatisfied with life as we pursue our own selfish gains because we were created to glorify Jesus and not ourselves. Isaiah 43:7 says, "Everyone who is called by my name, whom I created for my glory, whom I formed and made." God is our creator and He created us for His glory.
Living the most satisfied life is found by living out who God created us to be.
It's no wonder that celebrities and people who we can say hit the mark end up being depressed. Why have they lost joy in the pursuit of their dreams? Because they missed out on the greatest source of fulfillment which is Jesus. When we move from a place of glorifying God to glorifying ourselves, we will lose joy.
Nothing can steal our joy when our hearts are set on Jesus. Jesus says in John 10:10, "The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have lie, and have it to the full." The enemy will use our own selfish desires to destroy us, but Jesus is here to guide us along a fulfilling life. He leads us beside still waters, He refreshes our soul, He guides us along the right paths for His name sake (Psalm 23:2-3).
What's the condition of your heart? Have you been seeking after your own selfish ambitions or after Jesus? God is calling us to shift our gaze back to Him. As we gaze on His beauty, the worries of this world will dim and His love will shine brightly.
Will you devote your heart to seeking Jesus? 1 Chronicles 22:19 says, "Now devote your heart and soul to seeking the Lord.." Ask the Holy Spirit to reveal to you what you need to do to set your heart back on Him. When we seek first God, everything else in our lives will come together (Matthew 6:33). So remember, set your heart after Jesus.
I started a youtube channel and you would think I'd be all excited and full of joy, but quite the opposite happened.
I was frustrated, concerned, and anxious.
I was stressing myself out and worrying about how I would bring people to the channel and increase the number of subscribers. I asked God to examine my heart during my alone time with him because I definitely was not at peace.
It was then when he revealed to me that my motives for the videos were wrong. My heart was set on seeing my ministry grow that I lost the focus on simply loving Jesus and sharing Him to the world. I overcomplicated my life by adding goals that I felt had to happen. Once I shifted my focus back to Jesus, I found peace and joy again.
My pursuit was no longer in the numbers but keeping my heart pure for Jesus. When we seek after selfish gain instead of Jesus, we will always find ourselves in a place of unrest.
True joy stems from a heart that is simply after Jesus.
Not after success.
Not after fame.
Not after riches.
But Jesus.
Sure I was doing the works for the kingdom of God, but I found my desire to see my ministry grow supersede Jesus himself. We can be doing things for Jesus but miss Jesus himself. I never want to find myself doing anything but with the motive of loving Jesus and glorifying Him.
As we set our hearts on Jesus, the fruit of our lives will yield automatically. Luke 8:8 says, "Still other seed fell on good soil. It came up and yielded a crop, a hundred times more than was sown." The good soil in this verse is referring to a heart that is receptive to the word which is Jesus. Luke 8:15 says, "But the seed on good soil stands for those with a noble and good heart, who hear the word, retain it, and by persevering produce a crop."
God is more concerned about the condition of our heart than the fruit of our works. It's easy for us to focus on success and the fruit of our works, but we must focus on our hearts. God knows the condition of our hearts and will allow us to go through hardships and testings to purify our motives.
We will find ourselves dissatisfied with life as we pursue our own selfish gains because we were created to glorify Jesus and not ourselves. Isaiah 43:7 says, "Everyone who is called by my name, whom I created for my glory, whom I formed and made." God is our creator and He created us for His glory.
Living the most satisfied life is found by living out who God created us to be.
It's no wonder that celebrities and people who we can say hit the mark end up being depressed. Why have they lost joy in the pursuit of their dreams? Because they missed out on the greatest source of fulfillment which is Jesus. When we move from a place of glorifying God to glorifying ourselves, we will lose joy.
Nothing can steal our joy when our hearts are set on Jesus. Jesus says in John 10:10, "The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have lie, and have it to the full." The enemy will use our own selfish desires to destroy us, but Jesus is here to guide us along a fulfilling life. He leads us beside still waters, He refreshes our soul, He guides us along the right paths for His name sake (Psalm 23:2-3).
What's the condition of your heart? Have you been seeking after your own selfish ambitions or after Jesus? God is calling us to shift our gaze back to Him. As we gaze on His beauty, the worries of this world will dim and His love will shine brightly.
Will you devote your heart to seeking Jesus? 1 Chronicles 22:19 says, "Now devote your heart and soul to seeking the Lord.." Ask the Holy Spirit to reveal to you what you need to do to set your heart back on Him. When we seek first God, everything else in our lives will come together (Matthew 6:33). So remember, set your heart after Jesus.
Wednesday, September 26, 2018
Return To Your First Love
The love of Jesus is a beautiful thing. His love is not just words spoken but is tangible and real. His love transforms and we won't leave the same. Jesus is calling us to return to our first love to Him.
I'm not a morning person, so when I found myself awake early in the morning after going to bed at 2 am the night before, I knew something was off.
I tried forcing myself to sleep however I just couldn't.
It was at that moment when I realized God was waking me up to be with Him. He revealed to me how just as my soon to be husband longs for me, He too longs for my attention. I got into prayer and was then lead to Joshua 24:19 where Joshua tells the Israelites, "...He is a jealous God."
God revealed to me that He misses me because I am His. He is jealous after my love because I am His bride and I belong to Him.
I couldn't help but wonder how the God of the universe would be so jealous after us? What other gods would pursue us with such a jealous love like our father in Heaven? What other God would go out of His way to die for us so that ultimately we could be with Him?
God sent Jesus to die for our sins so that we would be redeemed and spotless before Him. Jesus calls us into marriage with Him and says He is our husband (Hosea 2:16). In marriage, we become one with our spouse and what is theirs becomes ours. The same is true with our marriage covenant with Jesus. When we chose to confess and believe in Jesus, we gain eternal life with Him and inherit all the blessings and promises God had intended for us.
Hebrews 9:15 says, "For this reason Christ is the mediator of a new covenant, that those who are called may receive the promised eternal inheritance--now that he has died as a ransom to set them free from the sins committed under the first covenant.”
Jesus loves you so much and is calling you to return to your first love to Him. The only way to return to your love to Jesus is to put aside all other things and yield your heart to Him alone. Joshua 24:13 says, "...throw away the foreign gods that are among you and yield your hearts to the LORD, the God of Israel."
The foreign gods were idols for the Israelites. Today idols can look like anything. Idols can be our relationships, career, hobbies, entertainment, and even our own God-given calling.
What desires have pulled you away from total surrender to Jesus?
Nothing should supersede Jesus in our lives.
Jesus died for us because He wants all of us. He is so jealous for our love and attention. How many times have we allowed the things of this world to captivate our eyes instead of Jesus?
God is calling us into a season of laying our desires down to Him so that we can behold Him alone. Laying down our desires does not mean we will never see them come to pass, it just means trusting that God's got it. He wants us to lay it down so that we can grow in our love for Him. The fruit of our intimate relationship and love for Jesus will be our desires coming to pass.
Psalm 37:4 says, "Delight in the LORD, and he will give you the desires of your heart."
God is asking for your attention, will you give it to Him? Will you turn your heart to Jesus and return to your first love?
Jesus is stripping things away from you so that you can see that He is all you need. His love for you burns in the season of waiting. It's in this season that Jesus is calling for your whole heart to experience the power of His love.
We can never be "too mature" Christians to be wrecked by Jesus's love. His love is beyond comprehension and understanding. Our journey should always be one that is growing in His love. Ephesians 3:19 says, "and to know this love that surpasses knowledge—that you may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God."
Jesus has so much in store for you but is asking you in this season to lay down your desires for Him. You will find that when Jesus becomes your everything, you will have everything. So remember, return to your first love Jesus.
Prayer: Lord, I chose to lay down my desires so that I can behold you alone.
Check out our new Podcast! Listen as Gabrielle Triyono expounds on the topic of returning to your first love Jesus. She shares her own experience in hopes you would encounter Jesus's love too,
https://apple.co/2DvQPo1 (for iphone users)
http://bit.ly/2N4yP3w (for android users)
I'm not a morning person, so when I found myself awake early in the morning after going to bed at 2 am the night before, I knew something was off.
I tried forcing myself to sleep however I just couldn't.
It was at that moment when I realized God was waking me up to be with Him. He revealed to me how just as my soon to be husband longs for me, He too longs for my attention. I got into prayer and was then lead to Joshua 24:19 where Joshua tells the Israelites, "...He is a jealous God."
God revealed to me that He misses me because I am His. He is jealous after my love because I am His bride and I belong to Him.
I couldn't help but wonder how the God of the universe would be so jealous after us? What other gods would pursue us with such a jealous love like our father in Heaven? What other God would go out of His way to die for us so that ultimately we could be with Him?
God sent Jesus to die for our sins so that we would be redeemed and spotless before Him. Jesus calls us into marriage with Him and says He is our husband (Hosea 2:16). In marriage, we become one with our spouse and what is theirs becomes ours. The same is true with our marriage covenant with Jesus. When we chose to confess and believe in Jesus, we gain eternal life with Him and inherit all the blessings and promises God had intended for us.
Hebrews 9:15 says, "For this reason Christ is the mediator of a new covenant, that those who are called may receive the promised eternal inheritance--now that he has died as a ransom to set them free from the sins committed under the first covenant.”
Jesus loves you so much and is calling you to return to your first love to Him. The only way to return to your love to Jesus is to put aside all other things and yield your heart to Him alone. Joshua 24:13 says, "...throw away the foreign gods that are among you and yield your hearts to the LORD, the God of Israel."
The foreign gods were idols for the Israelites. Today idols can look like anything. Idols can be our relationships, career, hobbies, entertainment, and even our own God-given calling.
What desires have pulled you away from total surrender to Jesus?
Nothing should supersede Jesus in our lives.
Jesus died for us because He wants all of us. He is so jealous for our love and attention. How many times have we allowed the things of this world to captivate our eyes instead of Jesus?
God is calling us into a season of laying our desires down to Him so that we can behold Him alone. Laying down our desires does not mean we will never see them come to pass, it just means trusting that God's got it. He wants us to lay it down so that we can grow in our love for Him. The fruit of our intimate relationship and love for Jesus will be our desires coming to pass.
Psalm 37:4 says, "Delight in the LORD, and he will give you the desires of your heart."
God is asking for your attention, will you give it to Him? Will you turn your heart to Jesus and return to your first love?
Jesus is stripping things away from you so that you can see that He is all you need. His love for you burns in the season of waiting. It's in this season that Jesus is calling for your whole heart to experience the power of His love.
We can never be "too mature" Christians to be wrecked by Jesus's love. His love is beyond comprehension and understanding. Our journey should always be one that is growing in His love. Ephesians 3:19 says, "and to know this love that surpasses knowledge—that you may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God."
Jesus has so much in store for you but is asking you in this season to lay down your desires for Him. You will find that when Jesus becomes your everything, you will have everything. So remember, return to your first love Jesus.
Prayer: Lord, I chose to lay down my desires so that I can behold you alone.
Check out our new Podcast! Listen as Gabrielle Triyono expounds on the topic of returning to your first love Jesus. She shares her own experience in hopes you would encounter Jesus's love too,
https://apple.co/2DvQPo1 (for iphone users)
http://bit.ly/2N4yP3w (for android users)
Monday, September 17, 2018
Finding Your Value
We all long to find our purpose and feel valuable. Some find their purpose through their careers, what they have, or from what others’ say about them. However, everything that comes from this earth has no lasting value. It is who we are in Christ and who He created us to be that brings everlasting value. Find your value in Jesus.
Growing up I placed my value in so many things that I now realize weren’t the right things. I grew up knowing God but never had a relationship with Him. Christianity was more of a religion than a delight to know my savior. Because I didn’t have the best view of God, I began to find other things to place value to fill what I didn’t realize was a God-sized hole in my heart.
I tried to fill it with popularity, boys, good grades in school, and success. There was always this thought in the back of my head saying, “If I only had this then I would be valid and my life would be perfect.” I struggled with wanting everyone to like me and wanting to be loved by the right guy.
I would grasp harder for my value but seemingly gave more and more of it away. I found myself striving for value but left feeling more empty.
It wasn’t until the end of college when someone invited me to a college service at a local church that I began to truly understand my value in Jesus. I began to see that I was fearfully and wonderfully made in God’s image. As I started developing a relationship with Jesus, I realized I was His beloved child.
Ephesians 2:10 says, “For we are God's masterpiece. He has created us anew in Christ Jesus, so we can do the good things he planned for us long ago.”
I no longer saw the need to find value from others because I was already valued by the most High God.
Our value is in who we are in Christ.
We don’t have to look for value because we are already valued in the eyes of Jesus. When we accept Jesus as our Lord and savior and believe in Him, we become His children. John 1:12 says, "But to all who believed him and accepted him, he gave the right to become children of God.”
As I learned all of the promises that God had for me through Jesus, I began to discover who I was made to be by learning about my calling. When we place our value in earthly things, our joy is quickly fleeting. When we place our value in God and who He created us to be, our joy is eternal.
The things of this earth will never satisfy us like God will because it was never meant to fill the hole in our heart that God fills. We have to find our treasure (value) in Jesus. Matthew 6:21, “For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.”
Where do you find your value? What are you currently treasuring?
If I could go back and tell my younger self-anything, it would be to find my value in God and who He made me to be. We all have a purpose and a calling from God to make a difference during our time here on earth. Jeremiah 1:5 says, “Before I made you in your mother’s womb I chose you, I set you apart for a special work.”
You were made for a reason and God love’s you just the way He made you. You are His masterpiece.
If you’re struggling to find value in yourself, begin to speak God’s truth and promises over your life. Put encouraging post-it notes with scripture up around your room. We have to silence the lies of the enemy and replace them with God’s truth. When we do this, we will begin to see our value in Christ each day. So remember, find your value in Jesus.
Prayer: Lord, fill any gaps in my heart with your love. Examine my heart and help me to find my treasure in you alone.
Growing up I placed my value in so many things that I now realize weren’t the right things. I grew up knowing God but never had a relationship with Him. Christianity was more of a religion than a delight to know my savior. Because I didn’t have the best view of God, I began to find other things to place value to fill what I didn’t realize was a God-sized hole in my heart.
I tried to fill it with popularity, boys, good grades in school, and success. There was always this thought in the back of my head saying, “If I only had this then I would be valid and my life would be perfect.” I struggled with wanting everyone to like me and wanting to be loved by the right guy.
I would grasp harder for my value but seemingly gave more and more of it away. I found myself striving for value but left feeling more empty.
It wasn’t until the end of college when someone invited me to a college service at a local church that I began to truly understand my value in Jesus. I began to see that I was fearfully and wonderfully made in God’s image. As I started developing a relationship with Jesus, I realized I was His beloved child.
Ephesians 2:10 says, “For we are God's masterpiece. He has created us anew in Christ Jesus, so we can do the good things he planned for us long ago.”
I no longer saw the need to find value from others because I was already valued by the most High God.
Our value is in who we are in Christ.
We don’t have to look for value because we are already valued in the eyes of Jesus. When we accept Jesus as our Lord and savior and believe in Him, we become His children. John 1:12 says, "But to all who believed him and accepted him, he gave the right to become children of God.”
As I learned all of the promises that God had for me through Jesus, I began to discover who I was made to be by learning about my calling. When we place our value in earthly things, our joy is quickly fleeting. When we place our value in God and who He created us to be, our joy is eternal.
The things of this earth will never satisfy us like God will because it was never meant to fill the hole in our heart that God fills. We have to find our treasure (value) in Jesus. Matthew 6:21, “For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.”
Where do you find your value? What are you currently treasuring?
If I could go back and tell my younger self-anything, it would be to find my value in God and who He made me to be. We all have a purpose and a calling from God to make a difference during our time here on earth. Jeremiah 1:5 says, “Before I made you in your mother’s womb I chose you, I set you apart for a special work.”
You were made for a reason and God love’s you just the way He made you. You are His masterpiece.
If you’re struggling to find value in yourself, begin to speak God’s truth and promises over your life. Put encouraging post-it notes with scripture up around your room. We have to silence the lies of the enemy and replace them with God’s truth. When we do this, we will begin to see our value in Christ each day. So remember, find your value in Jesus.
Prayer: Lord, fill any gaps in my heart with your love. Examine my heart and help me to find my treasure in you alone.
Thursday, September 6, 2018
Relentlessly Pursued
Did you know that you have someone who is pursuing you? He never stops. He never gives up. He is relentlessly pursuing you. Who's that someone? It's Jesus. You are relentlessly pursued.
I have found myself in moments of desperation. Whether it's battling anxiety, hurt, or simply feeling overwhelmed, I find that Jesus never fails to meet me where I'm at and bring me back up.
As I say yes to Jesus and seek Him in my alone time, He never fails to reveal himself to me. I recently was in prayer, asking for more of Jesus. At that moment God reminded me that as much as we desire for more of Him, He desires for more of us.
The Christian journey can seem like one where we have to strive to find Jesus, but in reality, Jesus is pursuing after us. When we say yes to Jesus and choose to seek Him with all our heart, He promises to reveal himself to us.
Jeremiah 29:13 says, "You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart."
What kind of father would ignore that cry of his child? Would he not be there to comfort the child and affirm of his presence? Whatever lie the enemy has planted in your mind, know that your father in heaven loves you and wants you to experience more of Him.
Jesus went out of his way to come on earth and die on the cross so that we would be made right before God. He offered His righteous blood for our sinful nature. He pursued us back then and is still pursuing us today.
Jesus is pursuing you.
He chose you before you chose Him. He calls you His child even before you acknowledged Him as your maker and father. John 15:16 says, "You did not choose me, but I chose you..." He loved you even before you loved Him back (1 John 4:19).
Jesus isn't waiting for you to get your life together before pursuing you. He died for you while you were a sinner (Romans 5:8) and will pursue you in the middle of your mess. We see Jesus pursing Paul (who at the time was named Saul) even though He had not yet accepted Jesus as His savior. In fact, Saul was persecuting many Christians and didn't even know who Jesus was.
Despite how far Saul was from Jesus, He still came to Saul and called on him. Acts 9:4-5 says, "He fell to the ground and heard a voice say to him, “Saul, Saul, why do you persecute me?” “Who are you, Lord?” Saul asked. “I am Jesus, whom you are persecuting,” he replied."
Jesus then tells Saul to meet Ananias who will open his blinded eyes. Jesus tells Ananias "This man is my chosen instrument to proclaim my name to the Gentiles and their kings and to the people of Israel." (Acts 9:15).
Jesus chose Saul before Saul even knew Him. Just as Jesus pursued Saul, He is pursuing you.
He has chosen you for a special purpose to declare His glory and experience a life to the fullest (John 10:10). All Jesus is asking you for is your yes and surrender.
Will you say yes to Jesus? Will you open your heart and invite Him to be your savior?
Saul's life was radically changed and it started with a yes to Jesus. Your yes to Jesus will take you farther than you know. Your life will change, and you will find meaning and purpose in your life where you could never find elsewhere. You will experience a love that cannot be comparable to any other love. There is no love greater than the love of Jesus.
Jesus will use anything to get your attention. He will send people your way, show you the same consistent verses from the Bible, and so much more. He may even be tugging your heart with this blog right now. It's no coincidence if you're feeling a tug in your heart to want to know Jesus more - that's Jesus pursuing you.
Jesus is calling for your attention, will you now pay attention? Will you say yes to His call? He sees past your mess with eyes of love and says you are His if you would just say yes. So remember, you are relentlessly pursued.
I have found myself in moments of desperation. Whether it's battling anxiety, hurt, or simply feeling overwhelmed, I find that Jesus never fails to meet me where I'm at and bring me back up.
As I say yes to Jesus and seek Him in my alone time, He never fails to reveal himself to me. I recently was in prayer, asking for more of Jesus. At that moment God reminded me that as much as we desire for more of Him, He desires for more of us.
The Christian journey can seem like one where we have to strive to find Jesus, but in reality, Jesus is pursuing after us. When we say yes to Jesus and choose to seek Him with all our heart, He promises to reveal himself to us.
Jeremiah 29:13 says, "You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart."
What kind of father would ignore that cry of his child? Would he not be there to comfort the child and affirm of his presence? Whatever lie the enemy has planted in your mind, know that your father in heaven loves you and wants you to experience more of Him.
Jesus went out of his way to come on earth and die on the cross so that we would be made right before God. He offered His righteous blood for our sinful nature. He pursued us back then and is still pursuing us today.
Jesus is pursuing you.
He chose you before you chose Him. He calls you His child even before you acknowledged Him as your maker and father. John 15:16 says, "You did not choose me, but I chose you..." He loved you even before you loved Him back (1 John 4:19).
Jesus isn't waiting for you to get your life together before pursuing you. He died for you while you were a sinner (Romans 5:8) and will pursue you in the middle of your mess. We see Jesus pursing Paul (who at the time was named Saul) even though He had not yet accepted Jesus as His savior. In fact, Saul was persecuting many Christians and didn't even know who Jesus was.
Despite how far Saul was from Jesus, He still came to Saul and called on him. Acts 9:4-5 says, "He fell to the ground and heard a voice say to him, “Saul, Saul, why do you persecute me?” “Who are you, Lord?” Saul asked. “I am Jesus, whom you are persecuting,” he replied."
Jesus then tells Saul to meet Ananias who will open his blinded eyes. Jesus tells Ananias "This man is my chosen instrument to proclaim my name to the Gentiles and their kings and to the people of Israel." (Acts 9:15).
Jesus chose Saul before Saul even knew Him. Just as Jesus pursued Saul, He is pursuing you.
He has chosen you for a special purpose to declare His glory and experience a life to the fullest (John 10:10). All Jesus is asking you for is your yes and surrender.
Will you say yes to Jesus? Will you open your heart and invite Him to be your savior?
Saul's life was radically changed and it started with a yes to Jesus. Your yes to Jesus will take you farther than you know. Your life will change, and you will find meaning and purpose in your life where you could never find elsewhere. You will experience a love that cannot be comparable to any other love. There is no love greater than the love of Jesus.
Jesus will use anything to get your attention. He will send people your way, show you the same consistent verses from the Bible, and so much more. He may even be tugging your heart with this blog right now. It's no coincidence if you're feeling a tug in your heart to want to know Jesus more - that's Jesus pursuing you.
Jesus is calling for your attention, will you now pay attention? Will you say yes to His call? He sees past your mess with eyes of love and says you are His if you would just say yes. So remember, you are relentlessly pursued.
Monday, August 27, 2018
Set Your Heart On What Matters
There are many things in our lives that matter to us; our family, friends, career, health, and the list can go on. But at the end of the day, there is only one thing that matters and that is God. As we set our hearts on God, all other things that matter to us will be taken care of. Set your heart on what matters.
I have needs just like you. I was caught up with my needs and found myself seeking God for his hands and not simply for more of Him.
I spent weeks fasting and praying but it had a lot to do with looking for God to do miracles through me and in my situation. I needed to see a breakthrough in my situation, but without me realizing my heart was set on His Hands and not His face.
The Holy Spirit convicted my heart as I read Psalm 27:4 which was written by David:
"One thing I ask from the Lord, this only do I seek: that I may dwell in the house of the Lord all the days of my life, to gaze on the beauty of the Lord and to seek him in his temple.”
David had many needs and was going through so many struggles. King Saul was after his life, yet David made one request to God - it wasn't to be raised up as a king, nor for provision and safety, nor for any other need He may have had, but to simply to be in God's presence and gaze upon His beauty.
David's heart was after God.
Was my heart after God alone? Not completely.
My heart was too focused on my needs that I forgot the most important thing that my heart needed which was God. I lost the joy of His presence because I was too focused on what I lacked. I needed to remember that I have all I need in Christ Jesus.
Philippians 4:19 reminds us, "And my God will meet all your needs according to the riches of his glory in Christ Jesus."
As we set our hearts on God, all our needs will be met.
Jesus is all we need and everything else comes secondary after Him. Many times we put our needs over Jesus. Maybe you're thinking that you need that boyfriend to make your life better, or that you need success to feel good about yourself. The truth is you just need Jesus. He is the source of love, joy, affirmation, peace, comfort and any other need you may have.
Your needs should only be pointing you to Jesus.
It can be easy to focus on what Jesus can do through us and for us that we miss Jesus himself. I was caught up with seeking the signs and miracles of Jesus that I forgot the greatest miracle of all which is His love for us. He died on the cross for our sins and was raised back to life to redeem us. He loved us while we were yet sinners (Romans 5:8).
If Jesus was willing to go that far to die for us, will He not meet our needs today?
God is a good father and will take care of our needs, but He wants us to learn to put Him first. God wants us to love Him and not for what He can do for us.
Matthew 6:33 reminds us, "But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.”
May we be like David, whose only request was to dwell in the presence of God and gaze at His beauty. It’s ok to be asking God for a breakthrough, but ultimately our hearts must be set on Him and not on what He can do for us.
David says in Psalm 28:8,"..Your face, Lord, I will seek.”
For what reasons have you been seeking God lately? Is your heart set on your needs or on God?
Ask the Holy Spirit to open and search your heart to show you anything that is hindering your heart from being pure before Him.
Make Psalm 139:23-24 your prayer to the Lord, "Search me, God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts. See if there is any offensive way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting.”
As you set your heart on God, He will quiet all the worries of this world and bring you in a place of complete joy and stillness. So remember, set your heart on what matters.
Prayer: Lord, I trust that as I set my heart on you, all my needs will be met.
I have needs just like you. I was caught up with my needs and found myself seeking God for his hands and not simply for more of Him.
I spent weeks fasting and praying but it had a lot to do with looking for God to do miracles through me and in my situation. I needed to see a breakthrough in my situation, but without me realizing my heart was set on His Hands and not His face.
The Holy Spirit convicted my heart as I read Psalm 27:4 which was written by David:
"One thing I ask from the Lord, this only do I seek: that I may dwell in the house of the Lord all the days of my life, to gaze on the beauty of the Lord and to seek him in his temple.”
David had many needs and was going through so many struggles. King Saul was after his life, yet David made one request to God - it wasn't to be raised up as a king, nor for provision and safety, nor for any other need He may have had, but to simply to be in God's presence and gaze upon His beauty.
David's heart was after God.
Was my heart after God alone? Not completely.
My heart was too focused on my needs that I forgot the most important thing that my heart needed which was God. I lost the joy of His presence because I was too focused on what I lacked. I needed to remember that I have all I need in Christ Jesus.
Philippians 4:19 reminds us, "And my God will meet all your needs according to the riches of his glory in Christ Jesus."
As we set our hearts on God, all our needs will be met.
Jesus is all we need and everything else comes secondary after Him. Many times we put our needs over Jesus. Maybe you're thinking that you need that boyfriend to make your life better, or that you need success to feel good about yourself. The truth is you just need Jesus. He is the source of love, joy, affirmation, peace, comfort and any other need you may have.
Your needs should only be pointing you to Jesus.
It can be easy to focus on what Jesus can do through us and for us that we miss Jesus himself. I was caught up with seeking the signs and miracles of Jesus that I forgot the greatest miracle of all which is His love for us. He died on the cross for our sins and was raised back to life to redeem us. He loved us while we were yet sinners (Romans 5:8).
If Jesus was willing to go that far to die for us, will He not meet our needs today?
God is a good father and will take care of our needs, but He wants us to learn to put Him first. God wants us to love Him and not for what He can do for us.
Matthew 6:33 reminds us, "But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.”
May we be like David, whose only request was to dwell in the presence of God and gaze at His beauty. It’s ok to be asking God for a breakthrough, but ultimately our hearts must be set on Him and not on what He can do for us.
David says in Psalm 28:8,"..Your face, Lord, I will seek.”
For what reasons have you been seeking God lately? Is your heart set on your needs or on God?
Ask the Holy Spirit to open and search your heart to show you anything that is hindering your heart from being pure before Him.
Make Psalm 139:23-24 your prayer to the Lord, "Search me, God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts. See if there is any offensive way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting.”
As you set your heart on God, He will quiet all the worries of this world and bring you in a place of complete joy and stillness. So remember, set your heart on what matters.
Prayer: Lord, I trust that as I set my heart on you, all my needs will be met.
Wednesday, August 15, 2018
Keeping Joy In The Midst of Chaos
Life will never be perfect and buttoned up the way we want it to be. We are going to go through dry and hard seasons, but keeping joy in the midst of chaos is possible.
As much as I want to avoid conflict and chaos, I realize it can't be avoidable.
The discomfort, pain, and heartbreak were all so real. I was in a situation that seemed hopeless. The more I tried, the worse the situation became.
There was nothing I could do to fix the chaos. As I fixed my eyes on the situation, I found my joy and peace getting stripped away from me. But during my alone time with God, he reminded me to fix my eyes on Him, and not my circumstances.
As I chose to fix my eyes on God, I realized I had an impossible God who was greater than the impossibilities I was facing. My hope and joy became renewed despite the chaos around me.
Romans 15:13 says, "May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit."
It may be impossible for us to fix the mess, but it's not impossible for God.
When we put our hope in our own strength and circumstances, we lose joy and peace because we know we can't do anything. But when we put our hope in a God who is able to do all things, our joy and peace become restored.
God isn't asking us to fight our battles but to be still and trust in Him.
We read in 2 Chronicles 20 of an army waging war against Jehoshaphat. God spoke through Jahaziel and told Jehoshaphat "You will not have to fight this battle. Take up your positions; stand firm and see the deliverance the Lord will give you.." (2 Chronicles 20:17). God reminded Jehoshaphat that "the battle is not yours, but God's." (2 Chronicles 20:15).
Instead of giving in to fear, Jehoshaphat, after praying and fasting, got everyone to sing praises to God. God came through and defeated their enemies without them having to fight. 2 Chronicles 20:22 says, "As they began to sing and praise, the Lord set ambushes against the men of Ammon and Moab and Mount Seir who were invading Judah, and they were defeated."
Jehoshaphat and his army could have run away out of fear, but they would have missed their victory and God's glory shine. They instead stood firm, praising and believing God would come through - and He did.
Just as God fought Jehoshaphat's battles, He wants to fight our battles as well.
Will you believe that God will come through in your situation?
I don't know what chaos you are facing, but know that you have a God is who is greater than your chaos. God is your greatest defender. He is asking you to do is to stand firm in faith and trust in Him.
Jehoshaphat was filled with joy because he chose to praise God in the midst of the chaos. He didn't focus on the battle, but on the God who is able to win the battle.
Where are you focusing your attention on? Are you focusing your eyes on the chaos or on an almighty God?
God will never fail you. He is faithful to those who walk according to His word and direction. Psalm 25:3 reminds us, "No one who hopes in you will ever be put to shame, but shame will come on those who are treacherous without cause."
Joy will rest in us as we trust that God is in control even when things are not in our control. Fear cannot shake us when we choose to stand firm in God's word. Psalm 16:8 says, "I keep my eyes always on the Lord. With him at my right hand, I will not be shaken."
As we fix our eyes on Jesus, our circumstances will not move us because our faith is rested in a God who is mighty to save.
Meditate on God's word and allow your mind to be renewed with his truth as you face hardships. Be ready to replace every fear and doubt with God's promises. Joy will follow you as you seek God's presence and truth. He promises those who seek Him will find him (Jeremiah 29:13). So remember, keeping joy in the midst of chaos is possible with God.
As much as I want to avoid conflict and chaos, I realize it can't be avoidable.
The discomfort, pain, and heartbreak were all so real. I was in a situation that seemed hopeless. The more I tried, the worse the situation became.
There was nothing I could do to fix the chaos. As I fixed my eyes on the situation, I found my joy and peace getting stripped away from me. But during my alone time with God, he reminded me to fix my eyes on Him, and not my circumstances.
As I chose to fix my eyes on God, I realized I had an impossible God who was greater than the impossibilities I was facing. My hope and joy became renewed despite the chaos around me.
Romans 15:13 says, "May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit."
It may be impossible for us to fix the mess, but it's not impossible for God.
When we put our hope in our own strength and circumstances, we lose joy and peace because we know we can't do anything. But when we put our hope in a God who is able to do all things, our joy and peace become restored.
God isn't asking us to fight our battles but to be still and trust in Him.
We read in 2 Chronicles 20 of an army waging war against Jehoshaphat. God spoke through Jahaziel and told Jehoshaphat "You will not have to fight this battle. Take up your positions; stand firm and see the deliverance the Lord will give you.." (2 Chronicles 20:17). God reminded Jehoshaphat that "the battle is not yours, but God's." (2 Chronicles 20:15).
Instead of giving in to fear, Jehoshaphat, after praying and fasting, got everyone to sing praises to God. God came through and defeated their enemies without them having to fight. 2 Chronicles 20:22 says, "As they began to sing and praise, the Lord set ambushes against the men of Ammon and Moab and Mount Seir who were invading Judah, and they were defeated."
Jehoshaphat and his army could have run away out of fear, but they would have missed their victory and God's glory shine. They instead stood firm, praising and believing God would come through - and He did.
Just as God fought Jehoshaphat's battles, He wants to fight our battles as well.
Will you believe that God will come through in your situation?
I don't know what chaos you are facing, but know that you have a God is who is greater than your chaos. God is your greatest defender. He is asking you to do is to stand firm in faith and trust in Him.
Jehoshaphat was filled with joy because he chose to praise God in the midst of the chaos. He didn't focus on the battle, but on the God who is able to win the battle.
Where are you focusing your attention on? Are you focusing your eyes on the chaos or on an almighty God?
God will never fail you. He is faithful to those who walk according to His word and direction. Psalm 25:3 reminds us, "No one who hopes in you will ever be put to shame, but shame will come on those who are treacherous without cause."
Joy will rest in us as we trust that God is in control even when things are not in our control. Fear cannot shake us when we choose to stand firm in God's word. Psalm 16:8 says, "I keep my eyes always on the Lord. With him at my right hand, I will not be shaken."
As we fix our eyes on Jesus, our circumstances will not move us because our faith is rested in a God who is mighty to save.
Meditate on God's word and allow your mind to be renewed with his truth as you face hardships. Be ready to replace every fear and doubt with God's promises. Joy will follow you as you seek God's presence and truth. He promises those who seek Him will find him (Jeremiah 29:13). So remember, keeping joy in the midst of chaos is possible with God.
Tuesday, August 7, 2018
Instant Intimacy
It’s easy to get impatient in our singleness and desire instant intimacy from people. While instant intimacy may make us feel loved at the moment, it will later leave us more empty. Nothing can compare to intimacy with Jesus.
I was sick of being single and waiting on God’s perfect timing. I wanted to take things into my own hands so I began the quest for a man and downloaded Tinder.
Swiping right if I found him attractive and left if he was too creepy, I was making every decision based on looks. During this season in college, I was a believer but lacked intimacy with God.
Instead of growing in intimacy with God, I wanted instant intimacy with a man.
At the time I believed intimacy was only found in the love of a man, but I soon realized the feeling of love didn’t last.
Have you ever sought out intimacy, yet remained unsatisfied?
Relationships aren’t bad, but they will never completely satisfy us. They are instant intimacies that leave us feeling more empty afterward.
God designed us as intimate beings, so our desire for intimacy is normal, but we must fill that need with God, not people.
Jesus says in John 4:13-14, “Everyone who drinks this water will be thirsty again, but whoever drinks the water I give them will never thirst. Indeed, the water I give them will become in them a spring of water welling up to eternal life.”
Until Jesus becomes our ultimate source of intimacy, we will never fully enjoy life and the blessings that God gives us. No one can ever love us perfectly except for God. When we depend on others for love, we will always be left unsatisfied.
When we understand that we are fully loved by God, we take off the expectations from others to be our God. The reality is no one can love us like Jesus.
The cure to the temptation of instant intimacy is the love of Jesus.
There is nothing we can do for God to love us more or less. God sent Jesus to die on the cross so that we could be made spotless before Him. It is not by our works, but by grace that we are saved. Ephesians 2:8-9 says, “For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God— not by works, so that no one can boast.”
Jesus loved us at our worst and died so that we could experience life to the fullest. He wants an intimate relationship with us but it starts with our understanding that we are simply loved by him.
We have a God who wants to speak to us and do life with us. There is no greater joy we could experience than seeing God revealed in our lives. The countless dates that I have been in cannot compare to the joy I experience with Jesus.
Do you desire lasting intimacy? Will you turn to God and devote to spending time with him?
Like in any relationship, it takes spending time with Jesus to grow in intimacy with him. If we want to experience an intimate relationship with Jesus we must devote our time in his word.
As we turn to Jesus in times of trouble, we give him the opportunity to comfort us with his words. If you’re struggling in singleness, feeling impatient, or wanting to take control, use that energy to seek God. Share with him your heart and ask him in prayer to experience his presence and love.
Hebrews 4:12 says, "For the word of God is alive and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart."
The word of God has the power to transform our thoughts and heart. If we want to experience God, we must allow his word to do a work in us. Intimacy is about being one Jesus. The Holy Spirit will align us with his desire as we immerse ourselves in his word.
The enemy will try his best to pull us farther from God by replacing him with relationships that were never meant for us. The enemy’s tactic is to prevent us from experiencing the best intimate relationship we could ever have which is with Jesus. I challenge you to read God’s Word as a love letter and spend time in his presence. Hold on to God's promises and let it be the hope that keeps you going. So remember, say no to instant intimacy and run to Jesus.
Written by Joy Pedrow
I was sick of being single and waiting on God’s perfect timing. I wanted to take things into my own hands so I began the quest for a man and downloaded Tinder.
Swiping right if I found him attractive and left if he was too creepy, I was making every decision based on looks. During this season in college, I was a believer but lacked intimacy with God.
Instead of growing in intimacy with God, I wanted instant intimacy with a man.
At the time I believed intimacy was only found in the love of a man, but I soon realized the feeling of love didn’t last.
Have you ever sought out intimacy, yet remained unsatisfied?
Relationships aren’t bad, but they will never completely satisfy us. They are instant intimacies that leave us feeling more empty afterward.
God designed us as intimate beings, so our desire for intimacy is normal, but we must fill that need with God, not people.
Intimacy is found in Jesus.
Jesus says in John 4:13-14, “Everyone who drinks this water will be thirsty again, but whoever drinks the water I give them will never thirst. Indeed, the water I give them will become in them a spring of water welling up to eternal life.”
Until Jesus becomes our ultimate source of intimacy, we will never fully enjoy life and the blessings that God gives us. No one can ever love us perfectly except for God. When we depend on others for love, we will always be left unsatisfied.
When we understand that we are fully loved by God, we take off the expectations from others to be our God. The reality is no one can love us like Jesus.
The cure to the temptation of instant intimacy is the love of Jesus.
There is nothing we can do for God to love us more or less. God sent Jesus to die on the cross so that we could be made spotless before Him. It is not by our works, but by grace that we are saved. Ephesians 2:8-9 says, “For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God— not by works, so that no one can boast.”
Jesus loved us at our worst and died so that we could experience life to the fullest. He wants an intimate relationship with us but it starts with our understanding that we are simply loved by him.
We have a God who wants to speak to us and do life with us. There is no greater joy we could experience than seeing God revealed in our lives. The countless dates that I have been in cannot compare to the joy I experience with Jesus.
Do you desire lasting intimacy? Will you turn to God and devote to spending time with him?
Like in any relationship, it takes spending time with Jesus to grow in intimacy with him. If we want to experience an intimate relationship with Jesus we must devote our time in his word.
As we turn to Jesus in times of trouble, we give him the opportunity to comfort us with his words. If you’re struggling in singleness, feeling impatient, or wanting to take control, use that energy to seek God. Share with him your heart and ask him in prayer to experience his presence and love.
Hebrews 4:12 says, "For the word of God is alive and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart."
The word of God has the power to transform our thoughts and heart. If we want to experience God, we must allow his word to do a work in us. Intimacy is about being one Jesus. The Holy Spirit will align us with his desire as we immerse ourselves in his word.
The enemy will try his best to pull us farther from God by replacing him with relationships that were never meant for us. The enemy’s tactic is to prevent us from experiencing the best intimate relationship we could ever have which is with Jesus. I challenge you to read God’s Word as a love letter and spend time in his presence. Hold on to God's promises and let it be the hope that keeps you going. So remember, say no to instant intimacy and run to Jesus.
Written by Joy Pedrow
Website: www.joypedrow.com
Instagram: @joypedrow
Monday, July 30, 2018
Noticing the Unnoticeable
How many times have we walked by someone in need and not notice them? They may not be famous artists that we admire and are on our radar, but they are special in Jesus's eyes. When we help the poor and broken we will find ourselves serving Jesus himself. There is a reward for noticing the unnoticeable.
I was waiting outside a restaurant for my family to arrive. Because I had nothing to do I noticed a lady with a small table that was set up right by the restaurant. She had a bunch of handmade lanyards and keychains that she was selling.
You could tell that she didn't have much but did her best with all she had.
As I was waiting I saw many people pass by this lady without stopping to take notice of her table. Their eyes were fixed on their destination and it was evident that the lady was unnoticeable to them.
I couldn't help but wonder if this poor lady was instead a famous artist, would people have noticed her then? Probably.
But I honestly would have done the same thing. If I didn't have to wait for my family, I would have been like the others, disregarding this lady who clearly was in need.
However, God has been teaching me to notice the unnoticeable and to be a helping hand whenever I can. Whether it's giving a prophetic word to someone to encourage them, giving money to those in need, or simply smiling at someone and asking how their day was, I want to give what I have and bless others.
I ended up talking with the lady and purchased her lanyards to support her. She shared her story and it was encouraging to see that she was willing to be faithful with the little that God had given her. I encouraged her that she is special in God's eye and that He notices her.
I could tell she felt loved at that moment, and not by me but by Jesus.
When we love and notice others, we open their eyes to see that God noticed them first.
We are called to be like Jesus who went to the dark places to help the poor, sick, and lost. He calls us out of darkness to be the light of the world. Matthew 5:16 says, "In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven."
Our purpose is to bring hope to the hopeless. What better way to show Jesus's love to someone than sacrificing what Jesus has given us to help others. When we give what we have to others, people will see God's love through us.
It can seem unimportant to help those in need, but we must realize that when we help the poor we are helping the king of kings himself who is Jesus.
Jesus says in Matthew 25:35-36,40, "For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you invited me in, I needed clothes and you clothed me, I was sick and you looked after me, I was in prison and you came to visit me...Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me."
We are serving Jesus when we help those in need.
It is an honor and a blessing to help those who are less fortunate than us. It may take time for us to notice such people, but we can start by praying and asking the Lord to help us take notice of such people.
Not only will we be blessing those in need, but we ourselves will be blessed here on earth and rewarded in heaven. Jesus said to those who served the needy, "Come, you who are blessed by my Father; take your inheritance, the kingdom prepared for you.."(Matthew 25:34).
As we sow in generosity and kindness, we will also reap what we have sown. When we help those who are in need, Jesus will also help us when we are in need. Luke 6:38 says "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."
As we give unto others, we are leaving room for Jesus to give back to us evermore abundantly.
Let us be like the good Samaritan in Luke 10 who went out of his way to help the man who got robbed and beaten. Luke 10:34-35 says, "He went to him and bandaged his wounds..Then he put the man on his own donkey, brought him to an inn and took care of him. The next day he took out two denarii and gave them to the innkeeper. ‘Look after him,’ he said, ‘and when I return, I will reimburse you for any extra expense you may have.'"
This Samaritan went out of his way to help the man in need, unlike the priest and Levite who saw the dying man yet kept walking.
How many times have we walked past someone in need and kept walking?
Jesus calls us to be like the good Samaritan. We can carry the light of Christ in us, but if we aren't willing to give it away, we can't be a light to the world.
When was the last time you stopped and helped those in need? Will you allow yourself to be used by God and help those in need?
God wants to use you to show others of his love and mercy. It is a blessing to be able to live as Jesus lived and be a vessel that carries the light of Jesus. So remember, notice the unnoticeable.
Prayer: Lord, help me to notice those around me who are in need.
I was waiting outside a restaurant for my family to arrive. Because I had nothing to do I noticed a lady with a small table that was set up right by the restaurant. She had a bunch of handmade lanyards and keychains that she was selling.
You could tell that she didn't have much but did her best with all she had.
As I was waiting I saw many people pass by this lady without stopping to take notice of her table. Their eyes were fixed on their destination and it was evident that the lady was unnoticeable to them.
I couldn't help but wonder if this poor lady was instead a famous artist, would people have noticed her then? Probably.
But I honestly would have done the same thing. If I didn't have to wait for my family, I would have been like the others, disregarding this lady who clearly was in need.
However, God has been teaching me to notice the unnoticeable and to be a helping hand whenever I can. Whether it's giving a prophetic word to someone to encourage them, giving money to those in need, or simply smiling at someone and asking how their day was, I want to give what I have and bless others.
I ended up talking with the lady and purchased her lanyards to support her. She shared her story and it was encouraging to see that she was willing to be faithful with the little that God had given her. I encouraged her that she is special in God's eye and that He notices her.
I could tell she felt loved at that moment, and not by me but by Jesus.
When we love and notice others, we open their eyes to see that God noticed them first.
God chooses to display his love to others through us.
We are called to be like Jesus who went to the dark places to help the poor, sick, and lost. He calls us out of darkness to be the light of the world. Matthew 5:16 says, "In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven."
Our purpose is to bring hope to the hopeless. What better way to show Jesus's love to someone than sacrificing what Jesus has given us to help others. When we give what we have to others, people will see God's love through us.
Jesus says in Matthew 25:35-36,40, "For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you invited me in, I needed clothes and you clothed me, I was sick and you looked after me, I was in prison and you came to visit me...Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me."
We are serving Jesus when we help those in need.
It is an honor and a blessing to help those who are less fortunate than us. It may take time for us to notice such people, but we can start by praying and asking the Lord to help us take notice of such people.
Not only will we be blessing those in need, but we ourselves will be blessed here on earth and rewarded in heaven. Jesus said to those who served the needy, "Come, you who are blessed by my Father; take your inheritance, the kingdom prepared for you.."(Matthew 25:34).
As we sow in generosity and kindness, we will also reap what we have sown. When we help those who are in need, Jesus will also help us when we are in need. Luke 6:38 says "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."
As we give unto others, we are leaving room for Jesus to give back to us evermore abundantly.
Let us be like the good Samaritan in Luke 10 who went out of his way to help the man who got robbed and beaten. Luke 10:34-35 says, "He went to him and bandaged his wounds..Then he put the man on his own donkey, brought him to an inn and took care of him. The next day he took out two denarii and gave them to the innkeeper. ‘Look after him,’ he said, ‘and when I return, I will reimburse you for any extra expense you may have.'"
This Samaritan went out of his way to help the man in need, unlike the priest and Levite who saw the dying man yet kept walking.
How many times have we walked past someone in need and kept walking?
Jesus calls us to be like the good Samaritan. We can carry the light of Christ in us, but if we aren't willing to give it away, we can't be a light to the world.
When was the last time you stopped and helped those in need? Will you allow yourself to be used by God and help those in need?
God wants to use you to show others of his love and mercy. It is a blessing to be able to live as Jesus lived and be a vessel that carries the light of Jesus. So remember, notice the unnoticeable.
Prayer: Lord, help me to notice those around me who are in need.
Sunday, July 22, 2018
On The Other Side Of Pain Is Healing
We all have experienced pain. Some wounds are deeper than others and can seem impossible to ever heal. While there may seem to be different remedies to heal our wounds, there is only one true remedy and that is Jesus. On the other side of pain is healing.
I have been through painful situations in my life that damaged me. I was abandoned by my mother and father at age 3, went through sexual abuse, and much more.
I tried to patch up the pain by doing dark things that were of this world, but it only deepened the pain. The things of this world filled me temporarily, but I would then be left back alone with extreme brokenness.
I wanted to end my life, but I decided to give Jesus a chance. I told God, “If you’re real show yourself. If there is a purpose for my life please show me because I can’t do this anymore.”
That night I surrender my life to Jesus and that was the start of my journey towards healing and restoration.
I thought ending my life was the only solution, but I found hope in Jesus.
My scars today now show others that God is my healer.
God was faithful and answered my prayer and I know He will answer yours too. I don’t know the pain you are carrying, but know that you have a loving father in heaven who wants to heal you.
God has the ability to erase your old and helpless life and make it new. 2 Corinthians 5:17 says, “Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!”
Praise God for giving us Jesus who brings restoration and forgiveness to our lives. My scars are very real, but I also see Jesus all over it. He brought me forgiveness, redemption, and healing to my heart and life. Jesus showed me that on the other side of pain is healing and hope.
We no longer have to live in shame or condemnation because Jesus bore all of that on the cross for us. Romans 8:1 says, “Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus.”
Jesus makes us white as snow (Isaiah 1:18) and will put together our brokenness into something beautiful to give hope to other broken people.
I now get to travel as a speaker and share my testimony and teach the Word of God to others. I understand the power of scars and have started a ministry called Authentic You to share testimonies of other women who have been through hardships but got through because of what God has done.
God is so merciful to take away our sinful life and give us abundant and eternal life with Him. Ephesians 2:8 says, “For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God—."
Will you accept the gift of grace and salvation that Jesus freely gives? Will you surrender your life to Jesus and allow him to heal your pains so that you can be used?
There is a life so full waiting for you on the other side of pain. No matter what you’ve been through, Jesus has still chosen you to carry His light to this world. Jesus still has purpose for you even with your scars. His job is to bring you from darkness into His light. 1 Peter 2:9 says, “But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God's special possession, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light.”
My prayer is that you chose to live in freedom and not be bound to pain, hurts, and doubts. Lay your life down to Jesus and you will find healing and hope. So remember, on the other side of pain is healing.
Written by Krystell Caycedo.
Founder of Authentic You Testimonies Worldwide
Website: Krystellcaycedo.com
Instagram: @Krystellacaycedo
Facebook: Authentic You Testimonies Worldwide
Twitter: krystellacera
I have been through painful situations in my life that damaged me. I was abandoned by my mother and father at age 3, went through sexual abuse, and much more.
I tried to patch up the pain by doing dark things that were of this world, but it only deepened the pain. The things of this world filled me temporarily, but I would then be left back alone with extreme brokenness.
I wanted to end my life, but I decided to give Jesus a chance. I told God, “If you’re real show yourself. If there is a purpose for my life please show me because I can’t do this anymore.”
That night I surrender my life to Jesus and that was the start of my journey towards healing and restoration.
I thought ending my life was the only solution, but I found hope in Jesus.
My scars today now show others that God is my healer.
God was faithful and answered my prayer and I know He will answer yours too. I don’t know the pain you are carrying, but know that you have a loving father in heaven who wants to heal you.
God has the ability to erase your old and helpless life and make it new. 2 Corinthians 5:17 says, “Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!”
Praise God for giving us Jesus who brings restoration and forgiveness to our lives. My scars are very real, but I also see Jesus all over it. He brought me forgiveness, redemption, and healing to my heart and life. Jesus showed me that on the other side of pain is healing and hope.
We no longer have to live in shame or condemnation because Jesus bore all of that on the cross for us. Romans 8:1 says, “Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus.”
Jesus makes us white as snow (Isaiah 1:18) and will put together our brokenness into something beautiful to give hope to other broken people.
I now get to travel as a speaker and share my testimony and teach the Word of God to others. I understand the power of scars and have started a ministry called Authentic You to share testimonies of other women who have been through hardships but got through because of what God has done.
God is so merciful to take away our sinful life and give us abundant and eternal life with Him. Ephesians 2:8 says, “For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God—."
Will you accept the gift of grace and salvation that Jesus freely gives? Will you surrender your life to Jesus and allow him to heal your pains so that you can be used?
There is a life so full waiting for you on the other side of pain. No matter what you’ve been through, Jesus has still chosen you to carry His light to this world. Jesus still has purpose for you even with your scars. His job is to bring you from darkness into His light. 1 Peter 2:9 says, “But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God's special possession, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light.”
My prayer is that you chose to live in freedom and not be bound to pain, hurts, and doubts. Lay your life down to Jesus and you will find healing and hope. So remember, on the other side of pain is healing.
Written by Krystell Caycedo.
Founder of Authentic You Testimonies Worldwide
Website: Krystellcaycedo.com
Instagram: @Krystellacaycedo
Facebook: Authentic You Testimonies Worldwide
Twitter: krystellacera
Monday, July 16, 2018
Setting Our Minds On Things Above
Have you ever stopped to think back to what thoughts you were thinking throughout the day? Research says on average we can have between 50,000-70,000 thoughts per day. I wonder how many of our thoughts are of heavenly minded things versus from our flesh. Are you setting your mind on things above?
I found myself feeling angry and bitter about someone even though my actions didn't show it. If you've been a Christian long enough, you can get good at "acting" nice, but what about your heart?
I was responding with kindness to this person even though they were throwing harsh accusations at me, but at the end of the day, I found myself angry, exhausted, and annoyed. I didn't know how to get rid of the bitterness or if it could ever be taken away.
I then ran into Colossians 3:2 which says, "set your minds on things above, not on earthly things."
It was at that moment when I realized all the bitterness and anger was because I chose to dwell and entertain the negative thoughts and hurt I experienced. If I wanted to forgive this person and truly heal, I had to make the decision to let go of the negative thoughts and set my mind on Jesus.
The more I fixed my gaze on Jesus and His love for me, the less I felt hurt. It was as if Jesus was the medicine to numb all the pain I had experienced.
Instead of entertaining the negative thoughts I had, I replaced them with thoughts of the goodness and favor of God over my life. I reminded myself of the grace that Jesus freely gave me even though I didn't deserve it. I was unworthy, yet Jesus willingly gave up his life so that I could have eternal life with him.
At the end of all of this, I was overwhelmed with His love and I had no more room for the pain and anger to linger in my heart.
When we are overwhelmed by the love of Jesus, it overflows to other areas in our lives despite the conditions we may be in.
Ephesians 3:17-19 says, "And I pray that you, being rooted and established in love, may have power, together with all the Lord’s holy people, to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ, and to know this love that surpasses knowledge—that you may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God."
Maybe you're not battling with anger, but what about lust? Greed? Jealousy? Selfish ambition?
God's love has the power to break every bondage in our lives. His love is beyond what we can comprehend and has the power to transform us into the fullness of God.
We must be constantly rooted and established in the love of Jesus. How do we become rooted in the love of Jesus?
It starts with our thoughts.
We must choose to meditate on scripture and keep our minds occupied with heavenly thoughts. Philippians 4:8 says, "Whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable--if anything is excellent or praiseworthy--think about such things."
Scripture makes it clear what is of God and what is of our flesh. Galatians 5:19-22 says, "The acts of the flesh are obvious: sexual immorality, impurity and debauchery; idolatry and witchcraft; hatred, discord, jealousy, fits of rage, selfish ambition, dissensions, factions and envy; drunkenness, orgies, and the like...But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control."
What do your thoughts consist of? Are you dwelling on fleshly thoughts or on spirit-filled thoughts? Will you choose to drop every negative thought and replace it with God's truth?
It's easy to neglect our thought life. We tend to focus more on our actions and how we feel but rarely do we look back to see what our thoughts were. We must start examining our thoughts because it's the starting point to everything we do and feel.
You may not be strong enough to fight against your flesh, but Jesus is. You may not be strong enough but the Jesus in you is strong enough. 1 John 4:4 reminds us, "The one who is in you is greater than the one who is in the world."
Don't feel discouraged if you feel far from recovery. Jesus came for that very reason - to save you and to be your strength. His grace is available to those who ask. Ask Jesus to help you in your weaknesses and struggles and He will do just that.
1 Corinthians 10:13 says, "No temptation has overtaken you except what is common to mankind. And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can endure it."
God will provide a way for you to come out of your weakness in victory. It all starts with your choice to surrender and to set your mind on Jesus. So remember, set your mind on things above.
Wednesday, July 4, 2018
Walking Blindly With The Lord
If we had the choice to walk blindly or by sight, many of us would choose to see. It's scary to walk blindly because we can't see what's ahead. While it may seem safer to have our eyes to rely on, we are called to walk blindly with the Lord.
There have been many times when I thought I knew better than God. God would point me in a direction, but I'd tell him, "Are you sure? It doesn't look like that's going to bring me where I need to be."
But as I spent time with God, He reminded me that He can see farther than I can.
As I journey with God, I learn that He is more reliable than what I can see or comprehend. What may make sense in my mind and to the world is often the exact opposite of God's plans.
When God asked me to let go of pursuing my master's degree, I thought that was the craziest idea ever. When He asked me to let go of a relationship I was in, I thought He was setting me up for disaster. But in both occasions (and many more), I've learned that God is always working for my good.
Because I let go of my master's degree, God redirected me to Bible school which is exactly what I need for God's calling on my life. Because I let go of my past relationship, I am now in a new relationship that is actually taking me closer to God's destination for my life.
God knew all along what I needed and who I needed to be with to reach my destiny when I couldn't see it at the moment.
My eyes only tempted me to think that I knew better than God. Thank God I chose to live by faith and not by sight because it was only then that I was able to see God's faithfulness come through.
Isaiah 55:9 reminds us, "As the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts."
We will never be able to predict God's ways because He works through the impossible. God loves to show off in our lives and He does so by doing things beyond we can think or imagine. Ephesians 3:20 says, "Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us."
God will not limit himself to our small-minded thinking. He wants to do miracles in our lives, but we must be willing to follow him even when it doesn't make sense. We are to walk by faith and not by sight (2 Corinthians 5:7). If we have been accustomed to making decisions based on our common sense, we must ask ourselves are we really walking by faith?
We read throughout scripture that the people God used all had to take steps of faith and get out of their comfort zone. God asked Abraham to leave his home and country to a land he couldn't see. (Genesis 12:1). David who wasn't trained up as a soldier was able to defeat Goliath, the greatest warrior of his time with just stones and a slingshot (1 Samuel 17:50). God asked Gideon to bring only 300 men to fight against thousands of Midianites. (Judges 7:7).
God asked them all to do what didn't make sense so that He would have the glory. Scripture makes it clear that God was with them and it was God who brought them success.
This is the God we serve - the God of the impossible.
Matthew 19:26 says, "With man this is impossible, but with God all things are possible." God will never operate in our common sense ways because He doesn't have to. If he can move in ways that will blow our minds away, He will do it for His glory.
What step of faith is God calling you to do? Will you surrender and trust God despite what you see?
God wants us to learn to trust Him. It will require us to take a step into the unknown and believe God will come through.
Just as God was with Abraham, David, Gideon, and many others, He is also with us and for us. No matter what we go through, we can resting knowing God is always working for our good (Romans 8:28).
We must remember that the Christian walk is to walk blindly with the Lord. It's normal to be moving forward without knowing everything. God wants us to learn to depend on Him and less on ourselves. We shouldn't wait until it all makes sense before we follow God.
It's only when we are willing to surrender our ways to God that we will be able to see him do wonders in our lives. May we take steps of faith so that we can say, "Not to us, Lord, but to your name be the glory.."(Psalm 115:1). So remember, walk blindly with the Lord.
Prayer: Lord, I will follow you even when things don't make sense because I trust that you see beyond what I can see.
There have been many times when I thought I knew better than God. God would point me in a direction, but I'd tell him, "Are you sure? It doesn't look like that's going to bring me where I need to be."
But as I spent time with God, He reminded me that He can see farther than I can.
As I journey with God, I learn that He is more reliable than what I can see or comprehend. What may make sense in my mind and to the world is often the exact opposite of God's plans.
When God asked me to let go of pursuing my master's degree, I thought that was the craziest idea ever. When He asked me to let go of a relationship I was in, I thought He was setting me up for disaster. But in both occasions (and many more), I've learned that God is always working for my good.
Because I let go of my master's degree, God redirected me to Bible school which is exactly what I need for God's calling on my life. Because I let go of my past relationship, I am now in a new relationship that is actually taking me closer to God's destination for my life.
God knew all along what I needed and who I needed to be with to reach my destiny when I couldn't see it at the moment.
My eyes only tempted me to think that I knew better than God. Thank God I chose to live by faith and not by sight because it was only then that I was able to see God's faithfulness come through.
Isaiah 55:9 reminds us, "As the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts."
God's ways are always beyond what we can see.
We will never be able to predict God's ways because He works through the impossible. God loves to show off in our lives and He does so by doing things beyond we can think or imagine. Ephesians 3:20 says, "Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us."
God will not limit himself to our small-minded thinking. He wants to do miracles in our lives, but we must be willing to follow him even when it doesn't make sense. We are to walk by faith and not by sight (2 Corinthians 5:7). If we have been accustomed to making decisions based on our common sense, we must ask ourselves are we really walking by faith?
We read throughout scripture that the people God used all had to take steps of faith and get out of their comfort zone. God asked Abraham to leave his home and country to a land he couldn't see. (Genesis 12:1). David who wasn't trained up as a soldier was able to defeat Goliath, the greatest warrior of his time with just stones and a slingshot (1 Samuel 17:50). God asked Gideon to bring only 300 men to fight against thousands of Midianites. (Judges 7:7).
God asked them all to do what didn't make sense so that He would have the glory. Scripture makes it clear that God was with them and it was God who brought them success.
This is the God we serve - the God of the impossible.
Matthew 19:26 says, "With man this is impossible, but with God all things are possible." God will never operate in our common sense ways because He doesn't have to. If he can move in ways that will blow our minds away, He will do it for His glory.
What step of faith is God calling you to do? Will you surrender and trust God despite what you see?
God wants us to learn to trust Him. It will require us to take a step into the unknown and believe God will come through.
Just as God was with Abraham, David, Gideon, and many others, He is also with us and for us. No matter what we go through, we can resting knowing God is always working for our good (Romans 8:28).
We must remember that the Christian walk is to walk blindly with the Lord. It's normal to be moving forward without knowing everything. God wants us to learn to depend on Him and less on ourselves. We shouldn't wait until it all makes sense before we follow God.
It's only when we are willing to surrender our ways to God that we will be able to see him do wonders in our lives. May we take steps of faith so that we can say, "Not to us, Lord, but to your name be the glory.."(Psalm 115:1). So remember, walk blindly with the Lord.
Prayer: Lord, I will follow you even when things don't make sense because I trust that you see beyond what I can see.
Tuesday, June 26, 2018
Armored For Battle
We all have to go through hardships and battles. Whether we are a believer or non-believer, we all are susceptible to the imperfections of this world. The question isn't whether you're in a battle, but are you armored for battle?
After overcoming one of the hardest seasons of my life, I thought things would finally get easier. I was obeying God and doing all that He'd asked me to do, but after a time of victory, I was back into battle.
I was faced with accusations getting thrown at me and fears from my past started to creep in again.
I remember asking God, "Why is this all happening? Aren't I in your will?"
God then spoke to me one morning and said, "Just because you are armored doesn't mean you are safe from battle. Because you are armored, you are ready for battle."
It was in that moment when I realized God was preparing and equipping me this whole time to learn to stand firm against the schemes of the enemy.
Being a Christian does not mean we will pass through the hardships of life. We live in a world where the enemy is still roaring like a lion, seeking to devour us (1 Peter 5:8). But because we have Christ, we can go through battles and finish victorious.
Jesus says in John 16:33, "...In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world." The pain of this world will be real and fear will be present, but with Christ, we are more than conquerors (Romans 8:37).
While we have Christ in us who helps us in our weaknesses, we still have to put on the full armor of God to win the battle. Ephesians 6:11 says, "Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes."
What does the full armor of God look like? Ephesians 6:14-17 explains it:
"Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist, with the breastplate of righteousness in place, and with your feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace... take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one. Take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God."
We need to put on the full armor of God to come out victorious. The shield of faith is critical to block against the fears that the enemy will attack us with. We must be living in righteousness to prevent our hearts from impurity and hold on to salvation that Jesus gave us. Lastly, we need to use the word of God to bring down any lies and temptations the enemy will throw at us.
We need every aspect of the armor of God to successfully overcome the attacks of the enemy. If we are missing even one of the armors of God, we are giving room for the enemy to attack us. Imagine going into battle with everything except a sword. You may last for a while but will eventually die.
Just like any battle, we too are in an intense battle against the enemy. John 10:10 says, "The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy. I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full." No matter what you are going through, know that Jesus is for you. He came to give you life to the fullest.
In the midst of my battles, I had to use the sword of God which is the word of God, and speak it over every accusation that was thrown at me. I learned that no lie of the enemy could break me down because I was holding on to the truth of Jesus.
There is no weapon greater than the word of God. We can use the advice that the world offers, but it won't sustain us. We will eventually wear out and grow weary. But God's word is flawless. Psalm 18:30 says, "As for God, his way is perfect: The Lord’s word is flawless; he shields all who take refuge in him."
We must not entertain any thought but bring it down right away with the word of God. We are letting go of our armor in the midst of battle the moment we entertain bad thoughts.
The enemy will throw fears in our mind that speak against the truth of God. It's in those moments when we must make the choice to believe in God's word over our fears. God's word has never failed and will never fail. He has a faithful track record like no other.
We can be sure that on the other side of the battle is God's promises for our lives. God was leading Joshua and the others to their promised land, but they had to go through impossible battles. Their first obstacle was to cross the Jordan river while it was at flood stage and highest peak (Joshua 3:15).
Despite the impossibility, God was able to dry out the river the moment the priests who were holding the ark of God stepped into the river. All of Israel crossed the Jordan river on dry land (Joshua 3:17).
Through it all, God made one promise to Joshua that He also is promising us:
"Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go." Joshua 1:9
We may go through the toughest battles, but God promises to always be with us. Be bold and courageous because God is taking you through the battle into your promise land. No matter the battle, know that a mighty God is with you and for you. So remember, you are armored for battle.
Shop Be Bold and Courageous Tee here
After overcoming one of the hardest seasons of my life, I thought things would finally get easier. I was obeying God and doing all that He'd asked me to do, but after a time of victory, I was back into battle.
I was faced with accusations getting thrown at me and fears from my past started to creep in again.
I remember asking God, "Why is this all happening? Aren't I in your will?"
God then spoke to me one morning and said, "Just because you are armored doesn't mean you are safe from battle. Because you are armored, you are ready for battle."
It was in that moment when I realized God was preparing and equipping me this whole time to learn to stand firm against the schemes of the enemy.
Being a Christian does not mean we will pass through the hardships of life. We live in a world where the enemy is still roaring like a lion, seeking to devour us (1 Peter 5:8). But because we have Christ, we can go through battles and finish victorious.
Jesus says in John 16:33, "...In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world." The pain of this world will be real and fear will be present, but with Christ, we are more than conquerors (Romans 8:37).
While we have Christ in us who helps us in our weaknesses, we still have to put on the full armor of God to win the battle. Ephesians 6:11 says, "Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes."
What does the full armor of God look like? Ephesians 6:14-17 explains it:
"Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist, with the breastplate of righteousness in place, and with your feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace... take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one. Take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God."
We need to put on the full armor of God to come out victorious. The shield of faith is critical to block against the fears that the enemy will attack us with. We must be living in righteousness to prevent our hearts from impurity and hold on to salvation that Jesus gave us. Lastly, we need to use the word of God to bring down any lies and temptations the enemy will throw at us.
We need every aspect of the armor of God to successfully overcome the attacks of the enemy. If we are missing even one of the armors of God, we are giving room for the enemy to attack us. Imagine going into battle with everything except a sword. You may last for a while but will eventually die.
Just like any battle, we too are in an intense battle against the enemy. John 10:10 says, "The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy. I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full." No matter what you are going through, know that Jesus is for you. He came to give you life to the fullest.
In the midst of my battles, I had to use the sword of God which is the word of God, and speak it over every accusation that was thrown at me. I learned that no lie of the enemy could break me down because I was holding on to the truth of Jesus.
There is no weapon greater than the word of God. We can use the advice that the world offers, but it won't sustain us. We will eventually wear out and grow weary. But God's word is flawless. Psalm 18:30 says, "As for God, his way is perfect: The Lord’s word is flawless; he shields all who take refuge in him."
We must not entertain any thought but bring it down right away with the word of God. We are letting go of our armor in the midst of battle the moment we entertain bad thoughts.
The enemy will throw fears in our mind that speak against the truth of God. It's in those moments when we must make the choice to believe in God's word over our fears. God's word has never failed and will never fail. He has a faithful track record like no other.
We can be sure that on the other side of the battle is God's promises for our lives. God was leading Joshua and the others to their promised land, but they had to go through impossible battles. Their first obstacle was to cross the Jordan river while it was at flood stage and highest peak (Joshua 3:15).
Despite the impossibility, God was able to dry out the river the moment the priests who were holding the ark of God stepped into the river. All of Israel crossed the Jordan river on dry land (Joshua 3:17).
Through it all, God made one promise to Joshua that He also is promising us:
"Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go." Joshua 1:9
We may go through the toughest battles, but God promises to always be with us. Be bold and courageous because God is taking you through the battle into your promise land. No matter the battle, know that a mighty God is with you and for you. So remember, you are armored for battle.
Shop Be Bold and Courageous Tee here
Tuesday, June 19, 2018
Spending Time With Jesus
Spending time with Jesus can easily be put on the bottom of our to-do list as life gets busy. When time becomes limited, so can our time with Jesus. But spending time with Jesus is crucial for every aspect of our lives.
As vacation time was coming up, my to-do list was growing.
I had work tasks that had to be completed, graphics that had to be created and scheduled for Living Revelations, and much more. I started neglecting my morning times with God to work out more in the gym just before my cruise.
When I finally had the time to spend alone time with Jesus, I ran into a passage in my devotional that said: "We are not called to do something but to do it for someone."
It was at that moment when I realized I had lost my focus on the most important thing - Jesus.
I was getting things done for Jesus but neglected Jesus himself. Without me realizing, I was prioritizing my to-do list over spending time with Jesus.
While Jesus loves us doing things for him, He first wants us to give our undivided attention to Him.
When we spend more of our time doing things for Him and neglect to spend the time to hear what He has to say, we have missed the whole point. Our lives were made to glorify God and that only comes from a life devoted to Jesus in the secret place - the place where you and Jesus are alone.
Matthew 22-37-38 says, "Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind. This is the first and greatest commandment."
We are not showing our love and devotion to God if we are only doing things for Him but neglecting to spend time with Him. Imagine having a spouse who does things for you but doesn't bother to spend quality time with you. How would that make you feel?
Jesus cares more about us than the things we do for Him.
We see this in the story of Mary and Martha. Jesus came to visit them and while Mary was sitting at the Lord's feet listening to what he said, Martha was distracted by all the preparations that had to be made (Luke 10:39-40).
Martha got upset and asked Jesus to tell Mary to help her. But Jesus replied, "few things are needed—or indeed only one. Mary has chosen what is better, and it will not be taken away from her." (Luke 10:42).
Jesus made it clear that Mary has chosen what is better, which is spending time listening to Him. While all the preparations were important, they were not as important than spending time with Jesus.
Nothing is worth cutting our time with Jesus.
Are you like Martha who loves Jesus but is distracted by the things that need to get done? What's distracting you from spending time with Jesus? Is it ministry for Jesus himself? Is it your workload?
Whatever it may be, know that time with Jesus is worth it and necessary.
Jesus says in John 15:5,"I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing."
Jesus is the key to the success of our lives and ministry. Apart from Jesus, we can do nothing. Many times we think we are being more productive by getting our to-do list done first before spending time with Jesus, but in reality, we will be more productive if we start our day with Jesus.
There's nothing more important than spending time with Jesus. Jesus is the source of joy and strength we need to get through the day, the source of wisdom and creativity that for us to stand out in our work, and the source of love and assurance we need to persevere in the midst of a negative world.
What if spending time with Jesus was the solution to your marriage conflicts? What if spending time with Jesus was the key to the inspiration and strategy you needed for your dreams to come true?
We need to start viewing time with Jesus as necessary than optional. We cannot reach the plans God has for our lives by our own strength and mind. We need God's strategies and creativity. Jesus has all the solutions we need for our lives and when we spend time with Him, He will pour out all the wisdom and revelation we need to glorify Him in all we do.
Ephesians 1:17 says, "..the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the glorious Father, may give you the Spirit of wisdom and revelation, so that you may know him better." The more we spend time with Jesus, the more our lives will look like Him.
Proverbs 2:6 says, "For the Lord gives wisdom; from his mouth come knowledge and understanding." God has also given us the Holy Spirit to know Jesus better and to live as Jesus live so that others may witness His love and power through us.
The more we spend time with Jesus, the more we will see Him real and active in our lives. It's the time spent with Jesus that prepares us for ministry and to glorify God. So remember, spend time with Jesus.
As vacation time was coming up, my to-do list was growing.
I had work tasks that had to be completed, graphics that had to be created and scheduled for Living Revelations, and much more. I started neglecting my morning times with God to work out more in the gym just before my cruise.
When I finally had the time to spend alone time with Jesus, I ran into a passage in my devotional that said: "We are not called to do something but to do it for someone."
It was at that moment when I realized I had lost my focus on the most important thing - Jesus.
I was getting things done for Jesus but neglected Jesus himself. Without me realizing, I was prioritizing my to-do list over spending time with Jesus.
While Jesus loves us doing things for him, He first wants us to give our undivided attention to Him.
When we spend more of our time doing things for Him and neglect to spend the time to hear what He has to say, we have missed the whole point. Our lives were made to glorify God and that only comes from a life devoted to Jesus in the secret place - the place where you and Jesus are alone.
Matthew 22-37-38 says, "Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind. This is the first and greatest commandment."
We are not showing our love and devotion to God if we are only doing things for Him but neglecting to spend time with Him. Imagine having a spouse who does things for you but doesn't bother to spend quality time with you. How would that make you feel?
Jesus cares more about us than the things we do for Him.
We see this in the story of Mary and Martha. Jesus came to visit them and while Mary was sitting at the Lord's feet listening to what he said, Martha was distracted by all the preparations that had to be made (Luke 10:39-40).
Martha got upset and asked Jesus to tell Mary to help her. But Jesus replied, "few things are needed—or indeed only one. Mary has chosen what is better, and it will not be taken away from her." (Luke 10:42).
Jesus made it clear that Mary has chosen what is better, which is spending time listening to Him. While all the preparations were important, they were not as important than spending time with Jesus.
Nothing is worth cutting our time with Jesus.
Are you like Martha who loves Jesus but is distracted by the things that need to get done? What's distracting you from spending time with Jesus? Is it ministry for Jesus himself? Is it your workload?
Whatever it may be, know that time with Jesus is worth it and necessary.
Jesus says in John 15:5,"I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing."
Jesus is the key to the success of our lives and ministry. Apart from Jesus, we can do nothing. Many times we think we are being more productive by getting our to-do list done first before spending time with Jesus, but in reality, we will be more productive if we start our day with Jesus.
There's nothing more important than spending time with Jesus. Jesus is the source of joy and strength we need to get through the day, the source of wisdom and creativity that for us to stand out in our work, and the source of love and assurance we need to persevere in the midst of a negative world.
What if spending time with Jesus was the solution to your marriage conflicts? What if spending time with Jesus was the key to the inspiration and strategy you needed for your dreams to come true?
We need to start viewing time with Jesus as necessary than optional. We cannot reach the plans God has for our lives by our own strength and mind. We need God's strategies and creativity. Jesus has all the solutions we need for our lives and when we spend time with Him, He will pour out all the wisdom and revelation we need to glorify Him in all we do.
Ephesians 1:17 says, "..the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the glorious Father, may give you the Spirit of wisdom and revelation, so that you may know him better." The more we spend time with Jesus, the more our lives will look like Him.
Proverbs 2:6 says, "For the Lord gives wisdom; from his mouth come knowledge and understanding." God has also given us the Holy Spirit to know Jesus better and to live as Jesus live so that others may witness His love and power through us.
The more we spend time with Jesus, the more we will see Him real and active in our lives. It's the time spent with Jesus that prepares us for ministry and to glorify God. So remember, spend time with Jesus.
Sunday, June 10, 2018
Jesus Is The Answer
When depression becomes more than we can bear, it’s easy to turn to suicide as the solution. But ending our lives is not the answer to fix the hardships of life. There is hope and that is found only through Jesus. Jesus is the answer.
Even though I grew up in the church pews, I thought of ways to end my life. My faith was dead. I had no idea what hope felt like or even looked like.
I was numb to everything around me.
I remember being 6 years old and my dad would drag my mom down the street to beat her. He then made me feel worthless because I couldn’t get an ambulance. I would be locked in the closet and hit with metal cords. I would pee myself and starve.
I was living in crisis daily.
The molestation began in my sleep, then the cutting and the abandonment of false lovers. I wanted to end my life but one day I was old enough to see the trash of ashes in my heart.
There was only one thing I could do, one last prayer of hope and that was to invite Jesus into my life.
Jesus saved me from suicide when I had no one. He showed me true love and opened my eyes to see that I was valued, loved, and His beloved child.
Suicidal thoughts come from the enemy - they come through emotions of fear, anger, and bitterness. Demons will taunt us and place lies in our minds that ending our lives will be better than living in this life.
But that is a lie. There is a solution and Jesus is the answer.
Jesus still has a purpose for your life no matter what you’ve done or where you’ve been. There is no one too hopeless for Jesus. Hope doesn't come from your situation but from Jesus. So no matter how bad your situation may be, know that with Jesus you can bring hope to others.
Nothing is impossible with God and He is able to take our pain and turn it into joy. He will use our life as a testimony to bring hope and life to others.
There is a love that is constant and endless and that only comes from Jesus.
God doesn’t promise us that we will be excluded from hardships, but he does promise us that we will come out of our hardships as overcomers through Jesus.
Romans 8:37 says, “No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us.”
We must learn to say no to the lies of the enemy and say yes to Jesus. Our yes to Jesus will take us further than we think. Jesus will lead us out of our troubled lives into a life of victory to be the light of the world. (Matthew 5:14)
Jesus can do anything to turn our situations around. Matthew 19:26 says, “With man this is impossible, but with God all things are possible."
Jesus died while we were all sinners so that we could have hope and everlasting life with Him. The enemy wants us to end our lives so that we miss out on what Jesus died for us.
But you don't have to end your life because Jesus gave up his life for you.
Jesus wants to turn your life into a testimony for others. Will you give your heart to Jesus and surrender your life to Him? Will you believe that nothing is impossible with God?
Romans 8:1 reminds us, “Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus.”
Don’t let your situation define your worth. Jesus found you worthy enough to die for.
Satan tempted Jesus to end his life (Luke 4:9-11) so he will try to tempt us too. However, we have the word of God to stand firm against the lies of the enemy. We must not give in to the troubles of this world but turn to God who is able to turn our messy lives around.
Jesus tells us in John 16:33 “I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.”
We can overcome our troubles because we have Jesus. If Jesus was able to overcome the grave, He surely is able to overcome any situation we will face. So remember, Jesus is the answer.
Prayer: Lord, I thank you that my life doesn't have to end in defeat because you bring hope and victory to our lives.
Testimony of Ruth Martinez - Follower her on Instagram @he_tookthecross
Even though I grew up in the church pews, I thought of ways to end my life. My faith was dead. I had no idea what hope felt like or even looked like.
I was numb to everything around me.
I remember being 6 years old and my dad would drag my mom down the street to beat her. He then made me feel worthless because I couldn’t get an ambulance. I would be locked in the closet and hit with metal cords. I would pee myself and starve.
I was living in crisis daily.
The molestation began in my sleep, then the cutting and the abandonment of false lovers. I wanted to end my life but one day I was old enough to see the trash of ashes in my heart.
There was only one thing I could do, one last prayer of hope and that was to invite Jesus into my life.
Jesus saved me from suicide when I had no one. He showed me true love and opened my eyes to see that I was valued, loved, and His beloved child.
Suicidal thoughts come from the enemy - they come through emotions of fear, anger, and bitterness. Demons will taunt us and place lies in our minds that ending our lives will be better than living in this life.
But that is a lie. There is a solution and Jesus is the answer.
Jesus still has a purpose for your life no matter what you’ve done or where you’ve been. There is no one too hopeless for Jesus. Hope doesn't come from your situation but from Jesus. So no matter how bad your situation may be, know that with Jesus you can bring hope to others.
Nothing is impossible with God and He is able to take our pain and turn it into joy. He will use our life as a testimony to bring hope and life to others.
There is a love that is constant and endless and that only comes from Jesus.
God doesn’t promise us that we will be excluded from hardships, but he does promise us that we will come out of our hardships as overcomers through Jesus.
Romans 8:37 says, “No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us.”
We must learn to say no to the lies of the enemy and say yes to Jesus. Our yes to Jesus will take us further than we think. Jesus will lead us out of our troubled lives into a life of victory to be the light of the world. (Matthew 5:14)
Jesus can do anything to turn our situations around. Matthew 19:26 says, “With man this is impossible, but with God all things are possible."
Jesus died while we were all sinners so that we could have hope and everlasting life with Him. The enemy wants us to end our lives so that we miss out on what Jesus died for us.
But you don't have to end your life because Jesus gave up his life for you.
Jesus wants to turn your life into a testimony for others. Will you give your heart to Jesus and surrender your life to Him? Will you believe that nothing is impossible with God?
Romans 8:1 reminds us, “Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus.”
Don’t let your situation define your worth. Jesus found you worthy enough to die for.
Satan tempted Jesus to end his life (Luke 4:9-11) so he will try to tempt us too. However, we have the word of God to stand firm against the lies of the enemy. We must not give in to the troubles of this world but turn to God who is able to turn our messy lives around.
Jesus tells us in John 16:33 “I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.”
We can overcome our troubles because we have Jesus. If Jesus was able to overcome the grave, He surely is able to overcome any situation we will face. So remember, Jesus is the answer.
Prayer: Lord, I thank you that my life doesn't have to end in defeat because you bring hope and victory to our lives.
Testimony of Ruth Martinez - Follower her on Instagram @he_tookthecross
Friday, June 1, 2018
Silencing Fear
Our fears tend to feel real and cause us to take actions based on false beliefs. However, we can't rely on our fears because they are not always true. Fear will only hold us back from experiencing the best that God has for us. Silencing fear is key.
Fear pulls us away from our destiny, but faith brings us closer.
I have been attacked with fearful thoughts this past week.
As I entertained the fears running through my mind, it all started to feel real. I started asking myself, "Could this be true? Is this really happening?"
The emotions started to get to me but I remembered to bring my fears to the Lord. The moment I spoke my fears to the Lord, I realized how silly they were.
As I spent time with the Lord in his word, he opened my eyes and showed me that my fears were all attacks from the enemy. The enemy was using fear to pull me away from where God was calling me to be.
Whenever that fear would arise, I would immediately throw it out and chose to not believe in it.
The enemy wanted me to doubt God's faithfulness and throw away every promise that He has spoken over my life. But because I drew near to the God, He exposed every lie of the enemy.
As we draw near to God, his light exposes all the lies of the enemy.
1 John 1:5 says, "God is light; in him there is no darkness at all." When we draw near to God, his light will expose all darkness within us. Ephesians 5:13 says, "everything exposed by the light becomes visible."
The enemy wants us to stay isolated and keep our fears to ourselves. The last thing the enemy will want us to do is to bring our fears to God because he knows God will expose it all.
We must not let fear stop us from either pursuing or letting go of what God is calling us to do. Fear will make us doubt in God's goodness so that we would take things into our own hands. But it's in these moments when we must bring our fears to God so that it can all be exposed.
Are you making your choices out of faith or faith?
There is a difference between faith and fear. Faith is believing in what God says, while fear is believing in what we feel.
Our feelings are not reliable because they are limited by our own perspective and flawed with our emotions. God however sees and knows all things. Jeremiah 17:9 warns us that our heart is deceitful. We can't trust in our feelings but we can trust in God.
Fear pulls us away from our destiny, but faith brings us closer.
If we want to see God's good plans for our lives, we must take the steps of faith. Jesus says in John 11:40, "Did I not tell you that if you believe, you will see the glory of God?"
What is God asking you to believe for? Will you choose to believe in his faithfulness or your own fears?
It's impossible to have both faith and fear. We must choose which we will live by. Faith will require us to silence our fears with God's truth. Only through a life of faith can we see God revealed. Faith will call us outside the comfortable and known, but the end result will always be for our best.
Hebrews 10:35-36 reminds us to not throw away our confidence in the Lord. The verse says, "So do not throw away your confidence; it will be richly rewarded. You need to persevere so that when you have done the will of God, you will receive what he has promised."
Where are you putting your confidence in? Do your actions show that you believe in God?
If you want to receive what God has promised, it is going to require you to let go of your will for his will. While it may be painful, we must remember that ultimately God's will is perfect and better than what we could ever come up with.
God has never failed anyone in the Bible and he does not plan to fail you either.
Numbers 23:19 says, "God is not human, that he should lie...Does he speak and then not act? Does he promise and not fulfill?" We see throughout the Bible that God has always fulfilled every promise he has spoken and his principle stands true - obedience to God will always lead to blessings.
Deuteronomy 28:2 reminds us, "All these blessings will come on you and accompany you if you obey the Lord your God.." The key word in this verse is "if". We will only see God's blessings in our lives if we chose to silence our fears and obey God.
Live bold and courageous because God is with you. Don't give in to fear because it will only lead you further away from God's amazing plans for your life. So remember, silence fear.
Prayer: Lord, I choose to silence my fears with your truth.
Shop new Be Bold and Courageous Shirt here
Thursday, May 24, 2018
There's No Need To Strive
We all have goals and dreams that we'd like to see come to pass. Our natural inclination is to strive towards our dreams and not waste any moment. While striving may seem like the best option to accomplish our dreams, it's not the best way and it's not God's way. With God, there's no need to strive.
In the beginning of this year, God revealed to me how he was going to expand Living Revelations' reach and use me more in speaking. I got excited and the first thing I did was plan, plan, and plan. The glimpse of my future made me excited.
But my excitement soon turned to anxiousness in just a matter of weeks.
I got declined to speak at events that I had planned to go and the people who I thought would help me in the ministry ended up saying no.
I remember telling the Lord, "How are your plans for me going to happen if none of my plans are working?"
But it was in that moment when God reminded me that it's not my plans that will get me to God's destiny for my life. It's only through His plans and His ways that I can get where God wants me to be.
I remember my pastor telling me,"You can't grow faster than how much God wants you to grow." It was then that I realized I was getting ahead of God and taking things into my own hands. I was striving instead of resting in God.
The vision that God gave me seemed so great and I became anxious wondering how I will get there. But it's in those moments when we must remember that if God gave the vision, he will bring the provision to make it happen.
Proverbs 16:9 says, "In their hearts humans plan their course, but the Lord establishes their steps." This verse reminds us that we can plan our future, but how we get there is established by the Lord and not by our works.
While it's good and necessary to work hard towards our dreams, we must realize that at the end of the day it only God who can bring us to our destiny.
We don't need to strive to get where we want to be. If God spoke a promise over your life, know that He is faithful to bring it to completion. Philippians 1:6 reminds us, "being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus."
A couple months have now gone by and I can already testify in God's faithfulness. I didn't get to speak at the events that I originally wanted to speak at, but God has opened other doors for me to speak at. I had the opportunity to start a Talk Show with the Singles Ministry at my church, I got invited as a guest speaker at the Christian Entrepreneurs Podcast, and was accepted to lead a workshop at a retreat.
God has also been faithful in bringing the right people I need to establish and grow Living Revelations.
This only showed me that God knows best. I learned that I don't need to be discouraged when faced with closed opportunities because it only means that God has better opportunities for me.
Closed doors do not mean closed dreams. Closed doors mean God has better doors for you to walk through to reach your destination. Trust that God knows best and that He who will establish your dreams.
Proverbs 16:3 says, "Commit to the Lord whatever you do, and he will establish your plans." God wants us to entrust our lives to Him and surrender our plans for His plans.
What does surrendering your life to God look like? Will you trust that God is leading you towards your destiny and what's best for you?
Surrendering your ways to the Lord may mean letting go of pursuing what God never intended you to pursue. While our desire may not be to surrender and wait on the Lord, we must believe that God knows better than we do.
When we understand that it is God who will establish the plans He put in our heart, we no longer need to strive but can rest in Him. God doesn't need your convincing. His understanding is beyond what we can comprehend. He sees the future when we can only see the present.
Proverbs 3:5-6 says, "Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding;
in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight." We are called to rely on God's strength and provision.
We see God leading Joseph into his destiny to be the ruler of Egypt, but it didn't happen the way Joseph expected it to happen.
God had given Joseph a dream that He would be the ruler of Egypt and all would bow down to him (Genesis 37:7-9). You would think that royalty and favor would then follow all the days of his life, but quite the opposite happened.
Joseph's brothers sold him into slavery and he was stuck in prison for years. It was God's favor and blessing that opened the door for Joseph to walk into His destiny. Genesis 39:2-4 says, "The Lord was with Joseph so that he prospered...When his master saw that the Lord was with him and that the Lord gave him success in everything he did, Joseph found favor in his eyes and became his attendant."
It was God's favor that allowed Joseph to be entrusted by the officers of Pharaoh and eventually Pharaoh himself. God was working behind the scenes of Joseph's hardships and opened doors for Joseph to be the ruler of Egypt.
Just as God led Joseph to His destiny, God is also leading you to your destiny.
Don't be discouraged if your journey doesn't look like it's taking you to your destination. God is working even in the midst of your hardships and disappointments.
God takes us through the impossible to show us that He can do the impossible. God is more than capable to turn our dreams into reality. He will walk us into the right opportunities and people to take us where we need to be. So remember, there's no need to strive.
In the beginning of this year, God revealed to me how he was going to expand Living Revelations' reach and use me more in speaking. I got excited and the first thing I did was plan, plan, and plan. The glimpse of my future made me excited.
But my excitement soon turned to anxiousness in just a matter of weeks.
I got declined to speak at events that I had planned to go and the people who I thought would help me in the ministry ended up saying no.
I remember telling the Lord, "How are your plans for me going to happen if none of my plans are working?"
But it was in that moment when God reminded me that it's not my plans that will get me to God's destiny for my life. It's only through His plans and His ways that I can get where God wants me to be.
I remember my pastor telling me,"You can't grow faster than how much God wants you to grow." It was then that I realized I was getting ahead of God and taking things into my own hands. I was striving instead of resting in God.
The vision that God gave me seemed so great and I became anxious wondering how I will get there. But it's in those moments when we must remember that if God gave the vision, he will bring the provision to make it happen.
God will give the vision and the provision to lead us into our destiny.
Proverbs 16:9 says, "In their hearts humans plan their course, but the Lord establishes their steps." This verse reminds us that we can plan our future, but how we get there is established by the Lord and not by our works.
While it's good and necessary to work hard towards our dreams, we must realize that at the end of the day it only God who can bring us to our destiny.
We don't need to strive to get where we want to be. If God spoke a promise over your life, know that He is faithful to bring it to completion. Philippians 1:6 reminds us, "being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus."
A couple months have now gone by and I can already testify in God's faithfulness. I didn't get to speak at the events that I originally wanted to speak at, but God has opened other doors for me to speak at. I had the opportunity to start a Talk Show with the Singles Ministry at my church, I got invited as a guest speaker at the Christian Entrepreneurs Podcast, and was accepted to lead a workshop at a retreat.
God has also been faithful in bringing the right people I need to establish and grow Living Revelations.
This only showed me that God knows best. I learned that I don't need to be discouraged when faced with closed opportunities because it only means that God has better opportunities for me.
Closed doors do not mean closed dreams. Closed doors mean God has better doors for you to walk through to reach your destination. Trust that God knows best and that He who will establish your dreams.
Proverbs 16:3 says, "Commit to the Lord whatever you do, and he will establish your plans." God wants us to entrust our lives to Him and surrender our plans for His plans.
What does surrendering your life to God look like? Will you trust that God is leading you towards your destiny and what's best for you?
Surrendering your ways to the Lord may mean letting go of pursuing what God never intended you to pursue. While our desire may not be to surrender and wait on the Lord, we must believe that God knows better than we do.
When we understand that it is God who will establish the plans He put in our heart, we no longer need to strive but can rest in Him. God doesn't need your convincing. His understanding is beyond what we can comprehend. He sees the future when we can only see the present.
Proverbs 3:5-6 says, "Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding;
in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight." We are called to rely on God's strength and provision.
We see God leading Joseph into his destiny to be the ruler of Egypt, but it didn't happen the way Joseph expected it to happen.
God had given Joseph a dream that He would be the ruler of Egypt and all would bow down to him (Genesis 37:7-9). You would think that royalty and favor would then follow all the days of his life, but quite the opposite happened.
Joseph's brothers sold him into slavery and he was stuck in prison for years. It was God's favor and blessing that opened the door for Joseph to walk into His destiny. Genesis 39:2-4 says, "The Lord was with Joseph so that he prospered...When his master saw that the Lord was with him and that the Lord gave him success in everything he did, Joseph found favor in his eyes and became his attendant."
It was God's favor that allowed Joseph to be entrusted by the officers of Pharaoh and eventually Pharaoh himself. God was working behind the scenes of Joseph's hardships and opened doors for Joseph to be the ruler of Egypt.
Just as God led Joseph to His destiny, God is also leading you to your destiny.
Don't be discouraged if your journey doesn't look like it's taking you to your destination. God is working even in the midst of your hardships and disappointments.
God takes us through the impossible to show us that He can do the impossible. God is more than capable to turn our dreams into reality. He will walk us into the right opportunities and people to take us where we need to be. So remember, there's no need to strive.
Wednesday, May 16, 2018
God Provides
Money is a concern that we all have. We know that God is faithful and will provide our needs, but when our bank account tells us otherwise, will we still believe that God provides?
There I was 39 days away from my wedding with a large bill that I couldn’t shake off my mind.
In all of the chaos and preparation for the wedding, there was one bill that had been hanging over our heads. This bill was a large lump sum with accruing interest, to say the least.
This isn’t a bill that my fiancé and I took on irresponsibility since we both fervently prayed about this purchase before pulling the trigger. Still, we were uneasy about paying such a lofty sum off, especially with all the extra expenses to come.
However this morning, I received a check in the mail that made all the difference. The check was from an insurance claim that I had made almost two years ago. My car had been broken into and all of my personal items were taken. Through the lengthy process, I had almost forgotten about the pending refund. When I opened that letter, it contained a check covering the full amount owed for the wedding item as well as the money that I had already spent to replace the items taken from my car.
I couldn’t be more overwhelmed by God’s faithfulness that morning. Through this experience (and many others like it), He took what the enemy meant for harm, like a break in, and worked it together for my good. He blessed my fiancé and me with more than enough to cover past expenses relating to the incident. God’s timing was perfect and it couldn’t be more divine.
This miracle reminded me of Ephesians 3:20 which speaks of God’s ability to do “far more abundantly than all that we ask or think, according to the power at work within us…” Time and time again Jesus has shown us that this is not just a nice scripture to hang on the wall but a promise that He enjoys acting out. It isn’t always natural to rest in this reality or trust that He will provide, but every time God shows up in our lives or when we hear testimonies of His provision in others’ lives, our faith grows. It reminds me again that our good Father is often waiting for us to believe in Him and expect more from Him.
It’s easy to think that miracles are a thing of the past and not for today’s world. But just as Jesus was able to supernaturally provide for the disciples, He is still our provider today.
Jesus was able to turn water into wine (John 2), fill an empty net full of fish (Luke 5), and feed around 5 thousand people with only 5 loaves of bread and 2 fish (Matthew 14). Jesus has the power to take what you have and multiply it for your good and His glory.
Jesus was able to do miracles then, He is still able to do miracles in your situation now.
We must believe that God can do a work not only in our lives but also in our finances. It pleases God when we believe in Him and live with expectancy. Jesus says in John 11:40, “Did I not tell you that if you believe, you will see the glory of God?”
It starts with believing to see God revealed in our lives. Once we believe, the next step is to take the step of faith to see His faithfulness come through.
Are there areas in your life where you doubt God’s faithfulness, provision, and promise? Will you believe in God’s faithfulness despite what your circumstance may be?
In the midst of your worries, hold on to God’s truth. Philippians 4:19 says, “And my God will meet all your needs according to the riches of his glory in Christ Jesus.” God knows what you need and He plans on giving you above what you can ask or imagine. Make this verse your proclamation over whatever financial situation you may be facing.
Nothing is impossible for God. Believe beyond what you can see and trust that God’s abundant plan is unfolding every moment. So remember, God provides.
There I was 39 days away from my wedding with a large bill that I couldn’t shake off my mind.
In all of the chaos and preparation for the wedding, there was one bill that had been hanging over our heads. This bill was a large lump sum with accruing interest, to say the least.
This isn’t a bill that my fiancé and I took on irresponsibility since we both fervently prayed about this purchase before pulling the trigger. Still, we were uneasy about paying such a lofty sum off, especially with all the extra expenses to come.
However this morning, I received a check in the mail that made all the difference. The check was from an insurance claim that I had made almost two years ago. My car had been broken into and all of my personal items were taken. Through the lengthy process, I had almost forgotten about the pending refund. When I opened that letter, it contained a check covering the full amount owed for the wedding item as well as the money that I had already spent to replace the items taken from my car.
I couldn’t be more overwhelmed by God’s faithfulness that morning. Through this experience (and many others like it), He took what the enemy meant for harm, like a break in, and worked it together for my good. He blessed my fiancé and me with more than enough to cover past expenses relating to the incident. God’s timing was perfect and it couldn’t be more divine.
God always provides more than enough.
This miracle reminded me of Ephesians 3:20 which speaks of God’s ability to do “far more abundantly than all that we ask or think, according to the power at work within us…” Time and time again Jesus has shown us that this is not just a nice scripture to hang on the wall but a promise that He enjoys acting out. It isn’t always natural to rest in this reality or trust that He will provide, but every time God shows up in our lives or when we hear testimonies of His provision in others’ lives, our faith grows. It reminds me again that our good Father is often waiting for us to believe in Him and expect more from Him.
It’s easy to think that miracles are a thing of the past and not for today’s world. But just as Jesus was able to supernaturally provide for the disciples, He is still our provider today.
Jesus was able to turn water into wine (John 2), fill an empty net full of fish (Luke 5), and feed around 5 thousand people with only 5 loaves of bread and 2 fish (Matthew 14). Jesus has the power to take what you have and multiply it for your good and His glory.
Jesus was able to do miracles then, He is still able to do miracles in your situation now.
We must believe that God can do a work not only in our lives but also in our finances. It pleases God when we believe in Him and live with expectancy. Jesus says in John 11:40, “Did I not tell you that if you believe, you will see the glory of God?”
It starts with believing to see God revealed in our lives. Once we believe, the next step is to take the step of faith to see His faithfulness come through.
Are there areas in your life where you doubt God’s faithfulness, provision, and promise? Will you believe in God’s faithfulness despite what your circumstance may be?
In the midst of your worries, hold on to God’s truth. Philippians 4:19 says, “And my God will meet all your needs according to the riches of his glory in Christ Jesus.” God knows what you need and He plans on giving you above what you can ask or imagine. Make this verse your proclamation over whatever financial situation you may be facing.
Nothing is impossible for God. Believe beyond what you can see and trust that God’s abundant plan is unfolding every moment. So remember, God provides.
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