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Do You Take God For Granted?

3/28/2023

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Do You Take God For Granted?
 
Do you take God for granted,
As you journey through each day?
Do you forget His blessings,
And His love that guides your way?
 
Do you think that He's not watching,
As you make your daily plans?
Do you fail to sense His presence,
In the details of life's strands?
 
Do you take for granted His mercy,
And the grace He freely gives?
Do you forget the sacrifice,
Of His Son who died to live?
 
Do you mumble through your prayers,
With no genuine thought or care?
Do you fail to quiet your mind,
And sit at His feet to listen?
 
Do you put your trust in earthly things,
And forget who's in control?
Do you fail to seek His wisdom,
And to let His plan unfold?
 
But know that God is with you,
In every moment, every place.
He longs to walk beside you,
And to fill your heart with grace.
 
And in your moments of doubt,
When the path ahead seems long,
Remember that He's always near,
And His Word will make you strong.
 
Yes, God has given us His word,
The Bible, for us to ponder on.
In its pages, we find wisdom,
And the guidance that we need.
 
For in His presence there’s peace,
And joy beyond compare.
So take the time to seek God out,
And appreciate Him along the way.
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Adversity A Blessing In Disguise

3/27/2023

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Adversity A Blessing In Disguise
 
Why do we have adversity, some may ask,
When life seems like an endless, uphill task?
Life can be a struggle, it's true,
And sometimes, we don't know what to do,
 
Adversity is a gift in disguise,
An opportunity to grow and rise,
To teach us lessons we wouldn't learn,
If every path we took was an easy turn.
 
It's the obstacle course that we must navigate,
To learn from our failures and appreciate,
To discover our true selves and find
The strength to leave our fears behind.
 
Adversity may feel like a weight,
But it's a crucial part of life's fate,
A challenge we can embrace,
And an opportunity to find grace.
 
Through adversity, we learn empathy,
Compassion, and thanks for what we have,
And we realize that the struggles we face
Are stepping stones to help us embrace
 
Adversity reminds us we're not alone,
That we're just flesh and bone,
It humbles us and helps us to see,
The beauty of life's complexity.
 
Through adversity, we learn to thrive,
To keep going even when we don't want to survive,
To discover God’s strength and power,
And bloom like a beautiful flower.
 
So let us welcome adversity with open hearts,
And see it as a chance to play our part,
In a world where obstacles and strife,
Are the very things that sharpen the knife.
 
For adversity is a blessing in disguise,
A chance to grow and become wise,
And in the end, we'll see it clear,
It's the very thing that brings us near.
 
So embrace adversity, my friend,
For it's a teacher and a guide,
Leading you to your highest self,
With God’s help reaching for the sky.​
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BACON

3/26/2023

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​Who else loves bacon as much as I do? This morning, my mother cooked me some amazing bacon—extra super duper crispy, and I'm feeling grateful. I miss it so much when I'm in El Salvador because it's just so crazy expensive there. But when I visit the U.S., I make sure to indulge in some greasy flavorful bacon every chance I get. Thanks, mother, for reminding me that life is too short to not have bacon! And to all my fellow bacon lovers out there, let's unite and celebrate this delicious food that brings us so much happiness. Just remember to chew before you drool!

Here's a Bacon Poem that I put together today:
​
This morning was quite a sight,
Something made my heart take flight.
My mother's cooking, oh so divine,
And what she made was oh so fine.

I saw it sizzling on my plate,
It was something I couldn't wait.
What is this? I had to ask,
And then I took a crispy, bacon-y task.

THIS IS BACON, my mother replied,
And my love for it I couldn't hide.
I missed it so much, but now I see,
The joy it brings, oh so free.

In El Salvador, it's quite a splurge,
But here in the States, it's quite the urge.
To have it every single day,
And eat it all in the best way.

​So thanks, Mom, for making my day,
With bacon, it's just the best way.
To start my morning, oh so right,
And make me smile with all my might.
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The Costs  of Fear

3/26/2023

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The Costs of Fear
 
Fear is a thief, it steals our might,
And clouds our vision, obscures our sight.
It makes us doubt, it makes us shrink,
And causes our hearts to tremble and sink.
 
It makes us forget what God has said,
And makes us think we're alone and dead.
It leads us to lie, to deceive and betray,
And makes us lose our righteous way.
 
It makes us irrational and leads us to sin,
And makes us flee where we should begin.
It paralyzes us and makes us hide,
And keeps us from the journey inside.
 
But we need not fear, for God is near,
To help us fight and calm our fear.
We need to trust and do the impossible,
For God is faithful and always reliable.
 
We must remember His promises are true,
And let His love, renew and refresh anew.
For fear may come but it can't abide,
When God is with us by our side.
 
So let us not fear but trust in Christ’s name,
And do the impossible without shame.
For in His hands, we'll never fall,
And fear will lose its grip on us all.
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There Is A Purpose For Childhood Pain

3/25/2023

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There Is A Purpose For Childhood Pain

From a young age, you bore a heavy weight
A secret pain that you could not relate
To anyone, not even those you loved
It seemed that all you had was stolen and shoved
 
But in the depths of your despair and hurt
A light shone through, though you could not yet assert
That God was there, holding you close
And He would never let you go, He knows
 
The scars you bear are deep and real
But God's love is deeper still
He took your pain and turned it around
To help others who might be bound
 
Now you stand as a shining light
A beacon of hope, burning bright
For all who suffer, just as you did
To show them that they too can rid

​Themselves of shame and guilt and fear
And know that God is always near
To heal and mend and make things new
And help them find their purpose too
 
Your story is not just one of pain
But also of hope and love, again
For in the midst of all that hurt
God was working, doing His work
 
So now you live with purpose clear
To help those who are still in fear
And show them that God's love is real
And He can turn their pain into something ideal.
 

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PEACE FOR THE GANGSTERS

3/24/2023

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PEACE FOR THE GANSTERS

In the streets where the violence reigns,
Where the gangsters rule with fear and pain,
There is a longing for peace within,
A desire for love that's genuine.
 
Their hearts may be hardened by years of crime,
But deep inside they long for a sign
That there is hope beyond their plight,
A way out of darkness and into light.
 
They need a Savior who understands
The struggles of life in these harsh lands,
Who can offer forgiveness and healing grace,
And show them a new, life-giving way.
 
Jesus Christ is the answer they seek,
The One who can make the wretched whole and meek,
He offers a future beyond an ugly past,
A life of purpose that will always last.
 
So let us bring the gospel of peace,
To the gangsters who need a new release,
And show them the love of Christ our Lord,
That they may find salvation and be restored.
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Thank you to Friends

3/21/2023

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Hello friend,
 
During my recovery in my parents' home, I have spent a lot of time thinking about and praying for many of you. As a missionary living on a foreign field I often find myself far away from family and close "American" friends. However, I don't feel alone, as I've had the privilege of meeting and interacting with many people in communities across the United States and various countries. Many of you have become a part of my community and support system, and I am grateful for that.
 
Although our relationships may not be traditional friendships where we get to interact on a daily basis, I value them just as much. For me, friendship is not about the number of friends I have, but about the quality of the relationships that are built with me. It's one of the most valuable and beautiful relationships in the world, and I'm privileged to have a bond that God formed between me and many of you. We share common interests, values, and experiences, and we can talk about things that are important to us. We have a special connection, whether small or great, that God has given us to understand and accept one another.
 
In today's fast-paced and hectic world, friendship has become even more important. With so many demands on our time and attention, it's easy to become disconnected from the people around us. But having strong and meaningful friendships can help us navigate the ups and downs of life and provide us with a sense of belonging and support.
 
The connections I have with you are priceless. Your friendships are an invaluable support, encouragement, and motivation in the work I do on the foreign field. These relationships help me to stay connected to my purpose and keep me grounded when things get tough.
 
I wanted to take a moment to express my gratitude for my friendship with so many of you, whether our relationship is casual or close. It's my hope that our friendships will be strengthened, and that we may have a closer bond between one another. I think about my many friends often, and I simply want to send a heartfelt message of thanks to encourage you in your day.
 
Thank you for being a part of my life and for your support. I appreciate you more than words can express.
 
Your friend,
 
Lawrence Bowman
 
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Do You Feel Guilty?

3/21/2023

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Do you feel guilty about something? If you do, then there is hope for you! Experiencing guilt can actually be an indication that your conscience is still intact. Sadly, in today’s society, many people have become desensitized to their wrongdoings and lack the ability to feel remorse or sorrow. This state of being is dangerous and can lead to disastrous consequences.
 
What are you feeling guilty about? Have you violated God’s Law? Have you offended or hurt someone? Have you committed a crime against civil law?  Or have you failed in meeting your own or others’ expectations in someway? These are common reasons why people feel the emotion of guilt.
 
God has given us the ability to experience spiritual pain through guilt. While physical pain is felt when our bodies are harmed, our conscience is connected to our spiritual selves and can also feel pain, which is often expressed through negative emotions such as guilt. This feeling of guilt enables us to sense and reflect on our actions in the spiritual realm of our lives, much like physical pain allows us to acknowledge and respond to harm inflicted on our bodies.
 
Guilt is a state of being. This condition arises when we realize we have acted against ourselves or another. This feeling is rooted in our conscience, and arises when we have transgressed against God, ourselves, or another person. Guilt can be an overwhelming sensation, causing us to feel ashamed and worthless, particularly if our wrongdoing is a violation of either God's moral law or the laws of society.
 
Both physical and spiritual pains impel us to seek comfort and relief. Just as no one enjoys experiencing physical discomfort, guilt also prompts us to seek spiritual remedy. However, just as poor medical treatment cannot alleviate physical ailments, false spiritual practices will not alleviate feelings of guilt. Just as physical ailments require the correct medicine to address them, those experiencing guilt and shame can only find true relief by confronting their feelings in a proper spiritual manner.
 
Guilt is not an emotion without purpose. God has designed within our conscience the ability to perceive guilt. It helps us to acknowledge when we have done something wrong and motivates us to make amends. Guilt compels us to seek correction for our misdeeds and directs us toward the right path in life. Without the sensation of guilt, we would be prone to failure and cause harm to ourselves and others without awareness of wrongdoing. We would be propelled towards worst evil and away from good. Guilt serves to lead us towards God and mold our conscience in goodness and kindness. It alerts us when we have transgressed the boundaries of proper behavior and indicates the need for us to repent, change our ways and make amends.
 
The Bible speaks about guilt in various ways and provides us with guidance on how to deal with it in our lives. One of the central themes in the Bible is that all of us are sinners and have fallen short of God's glory (Romans 3:23). This means that we stand guilty before God for violating His Law. The spiritual solution to guilt before God is to repent (godly sorrow turning you to God) and have faith in Jesus Christ. As stated in 1 John 1:9, "If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness." If we sorrowfully admit our guilt and confess our sins to God, He will forgive us and release us from the weight of our guilt.
 
So how can someone effectively deal with feelings of guilt after committing an offense against someone else?
 
First to overcome feelings of guilt is to turn to God. When we are struggling with guilt, we should seek God’s Light to bring to our awareness our sins. Then we should confess our transgressions to God and seek His forgiveness and cleansing. God is always ready and willing to forgive our sins and offer us a new start. We can find comfort in His love and mercy as we seek His guidance and instruction through His Word. By turning to God and seeking His face, we can find the strength to move past our guilt and find hope and healing in His grace.
 
Next, to effectively overcome feelings of guilt, it's important to start by identifying the root cause of your guilt. Ask yourself: What is causing me to feel guilty? Take time to reflect on your emotions and understand why you are experiencing this feeling and what actions or behaviors may have contributed to it. Once you have identified the source of your guilt, take responsibility for your actions, acknowledge any wrongdoing, and accept the consequences. Avoiding them is not a viable option as the consequences are bound to occur and are ultimately beyond our control. It's best to admit fault and accept whatever repercussions we may face. By addressing the root cause of your guilt, you can begin to overcome these feelings and move forward with a sense of peace and forgiveness.
 
Step three in overcoming feelings of guilt is to seek forgiveness from those we have offended. If we have wronged someone else, it is important to apologize sincerely, express remorse for the harm we caused, and seek their forgiveness. This can help to heal the relationship and restore trust. Even if the other person does not forgive us, we can still find peace in knowing that we have done our part in seeking reconciliation and making things right.
 
Fourth step: Instead of engaging in self-blame and criticism, it is important to practice self-compassion when dealing with feelings of guilt. This involves treating oneself with kindness and understanding, just as one would treat a friend who is struggling. Reflect on the negative experience and consider what led you to commit the offense, and use this as an opportunity for growth and learning. Consider how you can make changes to avoid similar mistakes in the future so not to commit the same errors again.
 
Last: Let go of the shame! One way to let go of shame is to practice self-forgiveness. This means accepting that we are sinful humans and make mistakes, and that it is correct to forgive ourselves for those mistakes. It may also be helpful to seek support from others, such as a trusted friend, family member or pastor, who can provide encouragement to help us see ourselves in a proper perspective. Finally, focusing on positive actions and behaviors can help us move past feelings of guilt and recognize that we can forgive and love ourselves because God offers forgiveness and love.
 
In conclusion, the Bible offers us hope and guidance on how to deal with guilt and overcome the feelings of shame and worthlessness that often accompany it. By turning to God, acknowledging our wrongdoings, seeking forgiveness, practicing self-compassion and letting go of shame, we can find peace and forgiveness. It is important to remember that we are all capable of making mistakes, but that we are also capable of learning from them and becoming better persons. As the Bible says, "Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new." (2 Corinthians 5:17).
 
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I Am A Missionary

3/20/2023

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I AM A MISSIONARY

To be a missionary is a calling divine,
A chance to share God's love and shine,
A light in the darkness, a beacon of hope,
Guiding lost souls towards Christ's holy scope.


In the nation of El Salvador, I serve,
Touching hearts and lives with an undying verve,
Bringing hope to the youth, the needy, and more,
Leading them to Jesus, the one I adore.


My work is challenging, but it's also fulfilling,
Seeing lives transformed and spirits willing,
To walk with God, to follow His ways,
And live a life of love and grace all their days.


As a Christian missionary, I have a task,
To share God's love and all that He asks,
To love your neighbor as thyself,
And bring them to Jesus, the Lord of all wealth.


So I’ll keep up the good work, my friend,
For in my service, many lives He’ll mend,
Bringing them closer to God's divine plan,
And leading them to the Savior, the great I AM.
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Words of Comfort

3/19/2023

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We live in uncertain times. The government is once again bailing out the wealthy instead of allowing two unscrupulous banks to fail, China and Russia threaten to undermine America as we near a civil war, and meanwhile our president is coordinating with other world leaders to bring about World War III. Even worst, the news media fails to tell the public the truth, and most people don’t care because they are preoccupied with trivial matters and entertainment, neglecting to recognize the issues facing our society.
 
The challenges within our personal lives can be overwhelming too, especially during these uncertain times. From illness and financial difficulties to isolation and fear of the future, many people are grappling with various forms of stress and anxiety. In the midst of all this, it’s so important to find ways to comfort ourselves and those around us.
 
Here are some words of comfort that might help:
 
This too shall pass
 
These four words may seem like a cliché, but they are a powerful reminder that nothing lasts forever. They remind us that everything is temporary and change is constant. There is always hope for a brighter tomorrow. As we navigate through life’s experiences, we should often reflect on our past experiences and see the grace of God. We can see that many past problems have come and gone, leaving us stronger and wiser. (OH the countless storms I could tell!) Life brings big storms that batter us down, but God always sustains us. No matter what challenges we face today, it's important to remember that they too will eventually pass. With perseverance and resilience, we can climb any mountain and emerge stronger on the other side. It may take time, but we will get there, one step at a time.
 
You are not alone
 
One of the most difficult things about facing troubles and uncertain situations is the feeling of isolation, as if nobody understands or cares about what we’re going through. However, this couldn’t be further from the truth. Everyone is dealing with their own struggles and hardships, and it's important to remember that we are not alone. There are people out there who care about us and want to support us. We just need to reach out and ask for help. For example, I didn’t want to leave El Salvador, but I knew I needed help and so I traveled to the U.S. to receive and be around family who could temporarily take care of me until my health improves. And so always, we must reach out to others for help even when we don’t want it. God has created us humans to be interdependent with one another.

It's okay to not be okay
 
In a world that often places a premium on appearing strong and in control, it can be difficult to admit when we are struggling. We may feel ashamed or embarrassed to show vulnerability, especially when it seems like everyone else around us has everything together. However, the truth is that none of us are immune to difficulties and challenges. Its part of the human experience and it's okay to not be okay. It is okay to feel sad, anxious, or overwhelmed. We don’t have to pretend to be strong all the time. Acknowledging and accepting our emotions is important in dealing with them effectively. By giving ourselves permission to experience our feelings, we can start to understand what we need to do to take care of ourselves. It’s just not okay to constantly live in these negative feelings forever.
 
Find meaning in the struggle
 
We all must go through the toughest of trials and difficult situations that can leave us feeling helpless and defeated. However, we can find solace in the knowledge that our struggles are not in vain; they are opportunities from God to help us grow and develop both in our tangible lives and our focus on Jesus Christ. By reflecting on what truly matters in life, we can find meaning in our struggles and use them as opportunities for wonderful change. For example, we need struggles; they are valuable to help us realize our own fragility and limitations and our dependence on God. By embracing our struggles and learning from them, they can serve as a springboard to move us forward toward positive change and growth in our lives. We can emerge from our struggles stronger and more resilient than ever before, ready to face whatever challenges the future may hold.
 
Practice gratitude
 
It’s easy to focus on the negative things, but there are so many things to be grateful for.
Practicing gratitude can help us shift our focus away from the difficulties and to navigate towards the many positive things in our lives. By taking the time to actively seek out the good in our lives and to appreciate God and other blessings, we cultivate a more thankful mindset and improve our overall well-being. Focusing on things we are grateful for, such as our health, loved ones, and even small daily pleasures, we can counterbalance negative emotions and find joy in the present moment. Moreover, gratitude has so many other benefits, such us helping to reduce stress, improve sleep, and gives us a greater overall well-being. By making gratitude a regular practice in our lives, we can improve our outlook on life and enhance our overall quality of life.
 
Take things one day at a time
 
When we look at the future, it's easy to feel overwhelmed and uncertain. We might worry about what's going to happen tomorrow, next week, or next year. But focusing too much on the future can cause anxiety and stress, and it's not always helpful. Instead, we can choose to take things one day at a time. This means focusing on the present moment and what we can do today to move forward. By doing so, we can break down responsibilities into manageable pieces, and avoid getting bogged down by the big picture. Taking things one day at a time allows us to be more present, more mindful, and more productive. It can also help us feel more in control of our lives, even when things seem uncertain. Of course, this doesn't mean that we should ignore the future entirely. It's still important to plan and prepare for what's ahead. But by taking things one day at a time, we can approach the future with greater clarity and confidence, knowing that we're doing the best we can in the present moment.
 
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One Amazing Nurse

3/18/2023

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Yesterday I was discharged from the hospital and I am currently recovering slowly at my parents’ home. I must give a shout out to an exceptional nurse who took care of me and went out of her way to help me on Thursday when I was an inpatient at the Ohio State Hospital here in Columbus.
 
This last Thursday, I had the best experience to be cared for by an awesome nurse named Cassandra. I wish I knew her last name, but all I know is she goes by the name Cassi. She was a traveling nurse from the Cleveland area who had accepted a temporary assignment at the hospital here in Columbus.
 
When Cassi entered my room that Thursday morning, I was feeling extremely exhausted and desired to be left alone. However, Cassi's positive attitude was infectious and uplifting. She noticed that my room had not been cleaned and took it upon herself to tidy up, which I gratefully acknowledged as I lifted the covers off my face. She suggested I open the blinds to let in the beautiful sunshine as she continued to clean my room. Though I declined, she persisted with her uplifting words and said, “Mr. Bowman, it’s such a beautiful day. You are missing out,” and she proceeded to open the blinds to let in the sunshine. Her smile was so warming, her wonderful attitude and demeanor were so uplifting, Cassi acted and spoke as if we were old friends catching up after a long time apart.
 
Throughout the day, Cassi went above and beyond to ensure that I was comfortable and had everything I needed. She regularly checked in on me and engaged in friendly conversation, making me feel as though I had a friend by my side. Cassi's positive attitude and words of encouragement motivated me to get out of bed and she got me to take little walks around the hallway to exercise my weak body. Every time I saw her, she greeted me with a smile and continued to offer motivating words to keep me going. Her unwavering support was just what I needed during this challenging time.
 
Before the end of her shift, Cassi went above and beyond once again. My bowels had not functioned for four days and I was experiencing discomfort, and despite my embarrassment, I needed an enema. Cassi handled the situation with ease and a positive attitude. She reassured me, saying, “Mr. Bowman, this is my job and I'm not bothered in the slightest. If you make a mess on the floor, that's okay. I'll be happy to clean it up because it means your body is functioning. And that's fantastic news.” Cassi's compassionate and understanding approach helped to alleviate my embarrassment and discomfort, and I was extremely grateful for her help to assist my body getting to function properly again.
 
Encountering individuals who truly go above and beyond the call of duty to serve and uplift with a sincere and positive attitude is a rare occurrence. However, this exceptional nurse was undoubtedly a Godsend. Her willingness to exceed the responsibilities of her professional role and her unwavering determination to serve me with kindness and compassion demonstrated that she was truly an angel in my life. I will always be grateful for her exceptional support and the positivity she brought into my life.
 
I feel compelled to share this story as a means of recognizing this exceptional nurse who went above and beyond her duties. In stark contrast to many of her colleagues that I encountered, she stood out with her remarkable positive attitude and compassionate care. Sadly, I observed that many of the other hospital staff members appeared burnt out and simply going through the motions. They didn't seem to acknowledge my humanity or the extra details in my needed care, and instead were preoccupied with their own hectic schedules. One nursing assistant told me that he was in a rush. And another staff member I encountered the day after my surgery grumbled at me for asking for assistance as she walked by my room. And later that day, I was reprimanded by a nurse because I kept needing assistance.
 
My hospital experience left me with the impression that the medical field is on the verge of collapse, much like other areas of our society. It appeared to me there is a severe shortage of staff at this particular hospital, and those who were working seemed to have lost sight of the fact that their job is a calling from God, not just a paid profession. It is a profession that serves as a ministry to aid and impact the lives of people dealing with challenging ailments. I am deeply grateful to Cassandra and all the staff who provided me with medical care during my recovery. I wish I had a picture of me with Cassandra to share with the world so that everyone could appreciate the incredible nurse she is. THANK YOU.
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Is The Hand of God Against You?

3/13/2023

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Have you ever felt that the hand of the Lord is against you? Unless you live a bubble in which nothing has ever gone wrong, you have likely experienced setbacks, misfortunes, and tragedies. If you have been fortunate enough to avoid such; then hold on, something troublesome is on the horizon in your life. We live in a fallen world and in perilous times. Pain, sorrow, and loss at some point in life are inevitable. Every one of us will experience significant challenges sometime or another.
 
When we lack a deep understanding of God's ways, we may perceive as if the hand of God is against us. The is well-illustrated by the story of Naomi in the Holy Bible. She was a Jewish woman living in land of Moab, who experienced a devastating loss of her husband and two sons, as well as living in a harsh famine. She struggled to make sense of her deep sufferings. Despite God's promises, grew bitter and expressed  her belief that God was punishing her, saying in Ruth 1:13, "the hand of the Lord is gone out against me." However, her life story reveals that in unexpected ways, Naomi ultimately found hope and redemption. Her journey highlights the importance of maintaining trust in God even in the darkest of times.
 
If you might be feeling that the hand of the Lord is against you, think again. God isn’t against you; He’s for you. As a Christian, it's important to have faith in God's sovereignty, which means that we believe that even the most difficult situations are not the result of chance or luck. Instead, we trust that God is in control of every aspect of our lives, no matter how small.
 
The Bible makes it very clear that God has the power to intervene in our lives and prevent disasters or heal illnesses. However, it’s also clear that God normally doesn’t  do so, which can be a challenge for some people’s thinking. In instances where God allows disaster and catastrophe to occur, it's not uncommon for individuals like Naomi to feel disappointed or even bitter. Nevertheless, we must remember that God's reasons are often beyond our understanding, and we should trust in His plan, even when we don't fully comprehend it. We need to recognize that although God is both good and powerful, it does not mean He directly prevents disasters from happening. Rather, He allows them to occur for a greater purpose.
 
God is sovereign over human affairs and wants what is best for us because He loves us. God is not working toward only a good outcome; He is working to achieve the best outcome. This means that even when we experience disasters, tragedies, pain, suffering, and sorrow, they are all part of God's best plan for us. Like Naomi, we acknowledge that God is involved, either directly or indirectly, when disasters strike. We trust that these events are in God's control and that He can use them to fulfill His purposes: And God’s first priority is to mold us into the image of His Son (Romans 8:29). Therefore as stated in Romans 5:3-4, we can even "glory in tribulations" because they work to build patience and hope within us. Similarly, James 1:3-4 encourages us to let patience have its perfect work so that we may become complete, lacking nothing.
 
The question of why the righteous suffer is a challenging one, but we must acknowledge that God is not obligated to explain His ways to us. Daniel 4:35 tell us: “the inhabitants of the earth are reputed as nothing: and he doeth according to his will in the army of heaven, and among the inhabitants of the earth: and none can stay his hand, or say unto him, What doest thou?” God does as He pleases, and no one can stop Him or question His actions. Therefore, it's not our place to demand answers from God or question His decisions. No one has the right to ask God, “What are You doing?”
 
Despite the fact that God is not obligated to explain His ways to us, He has graciously revealed some reasons why He allows suffering. One biblical answer to this question is that the suffering of the righteous is somehow within the providential will of God, as He allows it for His own good purposes. Even if we don't fully understand why we are experiencing suffering, it's important to reject feelings of condemnation and bitterness toward God. Instead, we should trust that God has a purpose for allowing this suffering and that there is ultimately good will behind everything that God permits in our lives. Romans 8:28 reminds us, "And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose." Therefore, even when we cannot comprehend the reasons behind our suffering, we can have faith that God is working all things together for our good.
 
God sometimes permits adversity as a means of achieving a greater good. God’s ultimate aim is to glorify Himself, not to provide us with more comfort and happiness. This perspective highlights that events which advance God's glory may be considered good, even if they are associated with catastrophe. The concept of greater good is based on God's perspective rather than man's limited perspective; He knows what is best.
 
God exemplified this best through the relationship between the Father and the Son. The Father allowed His Son to suffer for us; Jesus experienced great suffering as the suffering servant described in Isaiah 53—being wounded and bruised for our transgressions and iniquities. Christ’s agonizing death was a good thing despite being manifested through evil. His gruesome death was necessary for the redemption of believers, even though it meant the death of God's Son. Because of this experience, Jesus has compassion for those who suffer and He empathizes with us in our weaknesses, promising never to leave us or forsake us. We can find comfort in the fact that we are not alone in our suffering; its part of the human condition that even Jesus Himself experienced. As Hebrews 4:15 reminds us, "For we have not an high priest which cannot be touched with the feeling of our infirmities; but was in all points tempted like as we are, yet without sin."
 
Similarly, many people have experienced personal transformation through terrible circumstances, some ultimately leading them to repentance and faith in Christ. Others have been drawn into an intimate love relationship with God. In the story of Naomi and Ruth, the tragic loss of Naomi's family led them back to Bethlehem, which ultimately resulted in Ruth finding a new husband and giving her the blessing to be in the royal lineage of Jesus Christ.
 
The existence of suffering, pain, and disaster can be traced back to the Fall of Man. We live in a sinful, fallen world. As a result, suffering has become an integral part of the human experience. While some people may experience more suffering than others, no one is immune to it. Job 2:10 asks a good question: "Shall we accept only good from God and not adversity?" We must accept that suffering is a part of life in this fallen world, but we can find hope in knowing that God is with us in our suffering.
 
The existence of evil, suffering, and pain can lead to the display of God's grace and justice. It can also serve as a means of judging wickedness and bringing about repentance in unbelievers through disasters and calamities. God may also use suffering to discipline or chasten His children. Finally, my favorite reason for suffering is that those of us who have experienced suffering can provide comfort and support to others who are going through similar experiences (2 Corinthians 1:4).
 
Ultimately, we must conclude that God's infinite wisdom is beyond our human understanding. We can take comfort in knowing that the Judge of all the earth will do right. Furthermore, we can trust that all things will work together for the good of those who love God. Therefore, comfort ye one with another.
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I Don't Know How To Pray

3/10/2023

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Because of our lowly state we do not know how to properly draw near to a holy God, and before His holy throne we really do not know what we should pray for as we ought (Romans 8:26). Thank the Lord that He has graciously given us His Spirit. During prayer, a supernatural phenomenon occurs while we express our concerns to God. The Holy Spirit makes intercession for us, and He impresses upon our hearts what we ought to pray.

It is because of the Holy Spirit’s participation that our prayers can be appropriately presented before God. Apart from the Holy Spirit’s assistance, our prayers are very limited by our own reasoning and intuition. However, with the Holy Spirit’s help our mental faculties become informed by Heaven. As we engage in communion with God and seek His help, the Holy Spirit will speak to us through the Holy Bible, to remind us of God’s mind regarding matters.

The influence of the Spirit should move our hearts to consider God’s perspective, to believe His Word, and to think in a holy manner. Then God’s desires will become our desires, God’s motives our motives, and God’s fruition our fruition. God will reveal to our hearts the things which we need to pray and meditate about. Then the confirmation of God’s peace will envelop us as we pray according to His revealed will discovered in the Holy Bible.

Prayer arouses us to offer praise and adoration to God, for He truly is worthy of all honor and admiration (Acts 4:24; Revelation 4:11). When we extol the virtues of God’s greatness, it helps us to see life through His perspective. Praise helps us to be content with what we have and not desire what we do not possess. Praise holds our minds in peace, even if the present conditions are troublesome. Praise restrains us from ungratefulness and complaining. Praise makes space in our hearts to be filled with thanksgiving; it mortifies unappreciative attitudes, dissatisfaction, and complaint. Therefore, we ought to spend time praising and adoring our awesome and wonderful God. When we do so, we can be filled with a sprit of faith, thanksgiving, and contentment instead of being doubtful, unthankful, and complaining.

Prayer helps us to possess more faith in God and it stops us from slowly sinking into the self-absorbed quicksand of self-reliance. It helps us to see ourselves in proper relationship with God. We are His servants. He is our God. We are sinful and God is holy. We are imperfect. God is perfect. We are needy and God is abundant. We have questions and God is the answer.

Prayer is so wonderful because it is a two-way communication with God. We talk to God and He talks to us. We listen to God and He listens to us. We do not merely bring our cares, worries, and frustrations to Him; God also speaks and gives guidance and instruction. God reveals Himself to us in prayer.

There have been times when I have been confused and bewildered over a particular concern. Nonetheless, through prayer God calmed my fears and uncertainties (Matthew 11:28) and He answered my requests (Philippians 4:6), further building my understanding and trust in Him. Through prayer God helps you and me to recognize that all things are possible with Him. God gives rest to those who seek Him wholeheartedly and fervently through prayer.

One individual who was a man of prayer in the Holy Bible was the apostle Paul. Quite often in his writings, he would mention how he labored in great heaviness before God in prayer for people (Romans 9:2). Ephesians 1:17-19 is one of those examples. Here, he wrote his prayer out for the brethren to read. I can imagine that, as the pastor of the church in Ephesus read aloud Paul’s letter, the words of Paul’s prayer must have been a great encouragement to them. Today it still continues to enlighten and encourage us. The passage says, “[May] the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, [give] unto you the spirit of wisdom and revelation in the knowledge of him: The eyes of your understanding being enlightened; that ye may know what is the hope of his calling, and what the riches of the glory of his inheritance in the saints, And what is the exceeding greatness of his power to us-ward who believe, according to the working of his mighty power.”

What a beautiful prayer! God wants to give you and me wisdom. God wants to reveal Himself in a greater depth of understanding. God wants our perception in life to have more godly insight concerning all matters. God wants us to have a lively hope, and partake in His wonderful calling. God wants us to share in the greatness of His power by being effectual vessels of honor for the Lord Jesus Christ. These are just some of the many significant blessings we can obtain through prayer, and some of the matters about which we can pray for people, and for ourselves, that we may obtain them by God’s grace and sovereignty.

The opportunity to be in communion with God is a sure blessing, and it only happens with prayer. Probably one of the greatest blessings prayer offers is the channel to give us full access before God’s throne. There we find the presence of God, for surely, He sits on His throne. In God’s presence, we can pray and receive divine wisdom, instruction, and direction. God desires to genuinely give wisdom to His children, but we must seek and ask for it. James 1:5-6, says, “If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him. But let him ask in faith, nothing wavering.” Therefore, spend time with God in prayer and the Holy Bile and you will find knowledge and wisdom and get good understanding.

Problems, setbacks, and troubles are bountiful in supply. These can discourage or dishearten a servant if he is shortsighted; but a servant who is filled with wisdom and understanding trusts in the LORD and leans not on his own reasoning. Likewise, prayerfulness gives a Christian a deeper understanding of the riches of the glory of God’s inheritance in the saints. Prayer is the channel God uses to give Christians discernment with spiritual enlightenment. God gives discernment to a Christian so that he may arise from his prayer chamber and be of genuine service to mankind. If we are going to be ministers (servants) to men, we must be equipped with His understanding so that we can recognize how to best serve individuals according to their needs. Discernment helps a Christian to better understand the principal causes of people’s afflictions.

Discernment, wisdom, and insight are gifts from the Lord. God supplies gifts so that we may appropriately use them to lift up the brethren in times of need. God never gives a gift, such as discernment, to be used as a tool to hurt someone or to exalt ourselves. God gives gifts to believers so that we may humble ourselves and be good and wise servants unto others.

Not only does spiritual enlightenment help us to serve people effectively, it also provides us with clearer insight into problems and dilemmas. As God supplies a Christian with more discernment, wisdom, or understanding, the believer will soon become aware that his sorrows begin to grow as well. Ecclesiastics 1:18 explains, saying, “For in much wisdom is much grief: and he that increaseth knowledge increaseth sorrow.” Thankfully, God will not load us with a burden we cannot bear. The Lord balances sorrow by supplying a believer with joy in the Lord as well. Although sorrow might persist because you see man’s problems and understand their underlying causes, meanwhile you can experience the joy of the Lord by resting in assurance that God’s sovereignty in His timing shall work it all out for the good.

Spiritual enlightenment certainly is a blessing because it also is given to help believers to better appreciate God’s grace of longsuffering. Spiritual enlightenment helps you see God’s gracious hand working among people in the depths of their problems. As we empathize with others, we are drawn closer to the Savior because our own need for God’s grace is made ever more real to us. God patiently works to help us see and understand more of His greatness and holiness.

This is why we need prayer. Prayerfulness serves to expand our understanding of God’s holiness. When you see His holiness you will be arrested with conviction by God’s Spirit of your own sins and weaknesses. Then your mind will be moved to consider your own frailties, rather than the shortcomings of others. As you better see the glory of God, you will certainly be in awe that God would even call you and permit you to partake in His Kingdom service.
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Trapped in a Repeating Cycle?

3/9/2023

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Have you seen the movie Groundhog Day? It follows the story of an egotistical man named Phil who realizes a strange phenomenon in his life: the same day keeps repeating itself! The worst part is that he's the only one aware of it; he's stuck in a time loop, and no matter what he does, he always ends up back where he started An endless repetition.
 
What would you do if you were trapped in a cycle where every day feels identical, and your actions seem to hold no significance? While this scenario may sound extreme, the reality is that many people find themselves stuck in repetitive patterns that seem to have no end.

Does this sound like you? Are you facing repeating patterns in life? Do you wake up each day longing for progress, yet find yourself stuck in a dreaded Groundhogs Day—in an endless loop that seems to have no end?
 
Thankfully, there is a way out of the cycle. Eventually Phil decided to change his actions and work on becoming a better person. He started to genuinely care for others and developed a keen curiosity for life. One day, he heard a beautiful piano piece in a diner and so he decided to take up piano lessons. He started becoming more observant of his surroundings, and he discovered that people need small acts of kindness, so he began to help those in need, from saving a choking man to rescuing a boy who fell from a tree. As Phil learned to become a genuine good person, he inadvertently changed the lives of those around him. Finally, the time loop is broke, and he finds himself in a new day, finally free from the endless repetition.
 
It's unlikely that God would subject anyone to reliving the same day repeatedly. However, it's not uncommon for individuals to experience recurring patterns in life. These patterns may not necessarily be tied to a physical location, but could memories, habits, toxic relationships, or ongoing issues with family, friends, or colleagues. It can be difficult to understand why these situations persist and what purpose they serve. Why is this? What is God trying to use these patterns for?
 
In seeking insight into these question, there is a passage of scripture that may provide some guidance in Ezekiel 47. The chapter introduces a simple principle that can be applied to our daily lives. In verse 1, the prophet Ezekiel writes that God brought him back to the door of the house. Then, in verse 6, God asks him, “Son of man, hast thou seen this?” In between those six verses, Ezekiel describes the waters that flowed out of the holy house of God and into the land. Something simple, yet important!
 
Despite earlier in the book, Ezekiel had seen the house of God and its magnificence, Ezekiel still needed further insight; he needed to see again and learn something important. This is why God brought him back to the house again, so that he could see and understand more. The message is clear: we often fail to notice important details or understand what is happening around us. By being brought again to something, we are given another opportunity to observe what we missed to see before; so that we should gain a deeper understanding of what God is working to show and teach us. Our encounters with repeated patterns is a process that can provide us with the guidance and direction we need to break free from situations, persons, places or things that are harmful for us, so that we can move forward in a positive direction.
 
Repeated patterns and experiences in our lives often indicate that there is a lesson we need to learn, but we may be resisting it. If we fail to learn the lesson, the same situations will keep happening and often become more challenging until we recognize and address the behavior that needs to change.
 
If you notice that you are facing a repeating pattern in life, it's essential for you to apply these five points:
 
1. Pause, reflect, and become aware of the situation. Avoid reacting against it.
2. You need to observe it.
3. Seek to identify what lesson God may be trying to teach you.
4. Accept the situation and let go of whatever is holding you back. Whether it is integrating something new into your life or letting go of old unhealthy beliefs, it's crucial to embrace healing and make positive changes. Let go and break the pattern!
5. It's important to understand that God may test you again with the same pattern to show you if you have truly learned your lesson. If not, then the problem will again repeat itself until you have learned your lesson.
 
Take, for instance, a woman who discovered that she had a recurring pattern of being drawn to toxic men. This pattern wasn't exclusive to her love life; upon reflection, she realized that she had been surrounded by toxic people throughout her life, including her own family and friendships. Her relatives habitually belittled and ostracized her, even going so far as to express outright disinterest in her presence. Meanwhile, her so-called "friends" frequently made derogatory comments about her appearance, weight, and other personal attributes.
 
By examining these five key points, she arrived at a realization that she had been drawing in toxic relationships because of her lack of self-love. She subconsciously perceived bullying as a means of obtaining affection, a pattern rooted in an early childhood experience. Her siblings had treated her in this manner, and she had learned to view it as the only method of gaining attention. Consequently, she put up with this behavior in order to maintain the relationships. Additionally, she felt compelled to please and be agreeable with everyone, even if it caused her great distress. However, this approach left her feeling deeply unhappy.
 
Interestingly, as she focused on loving herself and being her best self, her life began to blossom. She began to loose weight; she learned to draw boundaries with her family, which she previously didn’t do so; she distanced herself from toxic friends, when she would feel obligated to meet them in the past; and she made some new healthy friendships; she got out of debt, and began enjoying new hobbies such as writing and photography.
 
It is worth noting that once she redirected her attention to loving God and loving herself, she made important self-improvements, her life underwent a remarkable transformation. She shed excess weight and developed the ability to set boundaries with her family, a skill that had previously eluded her. She kept herself away from toxic friends and established connections with new, healthy individuals. As a result, she was no longer obligated to maintain relationships that drained her energy. She managed to grab a handle over her debts, and she even took up new hobbies such as writing and photography, which brought her immense pleasure. In short, her life began to flourish as she focused on becoming her best self and cultivating a loving relationship with herself.
 
Observing and understanding your own life is crucial, as demonstrated in the stories of this woman and the prophet Ezekiel. If you find yourself stuck in a cycle of repetitive situations, it's likely that there's something in your life that requires your attention. To break free, it's essential to recognize and confront the issue, and make necessary radical changes. It may be necessary to let go of whatever is holding you back and causing these situations to repeat.
 
When stuck in a toxic cycle, it's important to shift your focus towards building a loving relationship with God and yourself. Reflect on your past experiences and behaviors to identify the root causes of your current situation. Seeking guidance and support from trusted individuals can be beneficial in navigating this process. Remember that positive changes take time and effort, but it's worth it in the end. By prioritizing positive changes, you can break free from unhealthy patterns and create a fulfilling and joyful life.
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Evil  Has No Boundaries

3/8/2023

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Evil has no boundaries and can strike anyone at any moment, regardless of how cautious or carefree one may be. It manifests itself in various forms and often catches us by surprise, lying in wait at the door of our lives. Unfortunately, some people tend to blame God when misfortune befalls a good person, questioning why such events are allowed to occur. On the other hand, when a wicked person becomes ensnared by the malevolence of life, many people are quick to smirk and rejoice in his entanglement. They forget that even though this individual turned out to be wicked, he too started his journey in life with innocence and high aspirations. At some point, he got led astray by evil and lost his path. Evil consistently blows us punches, and our responses to it vary; Some choosing to make admirable decisions in the face of evil, while others make not-so-good choices.
 
Sin is a constant presence in our lives due to the boundless nature of evil. It can strike unexpectedly and attempt to harm and annihilate us. On other occasions, evil can reveal itself in a more insidious manner by tempting us with deceitful lures that make us believe what is harmful is actually beneficial. This patient manifestation of evil can be cunning and difficult to recognize without the aid of the Holy Spirit. Therefore, it's crucial to remain vigilant and aware of the subtle ways in which evil can manifest in our lives.
 
Perfection is an unattainable ideal, as all of us daily yield to temptations and sin. Evil has an uncanny ability to exploit our vulnerabilities and entice us towards our most profound desires until we fall prey to sin. Nevertheless, the Bible reassures us in Proverbs 24:16 "a just man falleth seven times, and riseth up again." Thank God! How blessed is the person who has a loyal and patient companion to help him back onto the path of righteousness after falling into sin. But the one who falls into sin without someone to assist him can feel overwhelmed in despair, and just might give up.
 
The future Day of Judgment is a certainty, and on that day we will all be held accountable for our lives before God. However, it is unfortunate that some people have taken it upon themselves to judge others in the present, as if they were God's representatives. This is a misguided and dangerous attitude, as only God has the authority to judge with perfect knowledge and justice.
 
It's all too common for people to quickly condemn others caught in sin. As human beings, we tend to forget that Christ's law for today is based on love toward one another. Rather than judging and criticizing those who have stumbled, we should approach them with compassion and meekness. Our aim should be on restoring them to a noble state, not tearing them down with a critical spirit. When someone is overtaken by a fault, we should extend a helping hand and gently guide them back onto the right path. The spirit of meekness enables us to show humility, kindness, and patience towards those who have fallen, allowing us to better understand their struggles and offer the support they need. The faults and sins of others should serve as a reminder for us to reflect on our own weaknesses. Due to our sinful nature, the right circumstances at the right time can lead any one of us to commit even the most heinous of sins. We, too, are susceptible to falling into temptation and should take heed of the warning in 1 Corinthians 10:12, "Wherefore let him that thinketh he standeth take heed lest he fall."
 
I can relate to the temptation of sin, as the devil often makes it appear appealing and alluring. Evil has surrounded me on numerous occasions and allured me to stumble into ugly sins, leaving me ramshackle. I am reminded of the words of a dear woman whom God used to help countless children; she was battered greatly by evil, and she once said, "I am extremely damaged goods, but God loves to use extremely damaged goods." Amen! I just love it! Despite being impaired by evil, she kept her faith in God and believed in His limitless grace. Her words serve as a reminder that no matter how broken and damaged we are, God's love and grace work alongside our damaged selves for the good in the lives of people.
 
I too, view myself as damaged goods. Like many others, I am very flawed because of my past; and my present with all the vulnerabilities that lurk within me only demonstrate that I am helplessly weak without Christ. But God gives me grace! There are times when I question and ponder many things. Again God gives me more grace. God takes pleasure choosing the foolish things of the world to confound the wise. He chooses the weak things of the world to confound the things which are mighty. God takes pleasure choosing base things of the world and things which are despised so that He can do a glorious work and receive all the glory that only Christ deserves.
 
God has been incredibly good to me. I cherish the relationship I have with Him. I am filled with much gratitude for the work He has privileged me to do in the lives of people, particularly youth. Despite this, some individuals have voiced their objections to my involvement in ministry, openly criticizing me through email or to my face. They claim that I have no place in helping children or spreading God's Word. While I can understand their perspective to some extent, I recognize that God’s thoughts are not our thoughts, and His ways are higher than our ways. Although at times I feel unworthy of walking with God and serving so many precious, needy children around the world, I believe that He has called me to stand in the gap for them. Through my work, I am able to empathize with their pain and suffering, and offer them words of encouragement that a better day is coming. It is a privilege to be able to speak into their lives and edify them of the hope that can be found in Christ Jesus.
 
At one point in my life, I was leading two very different lives. Initially, I had not intended for this to happen, but eventually, I began to purposely keep personal details about myself hidden from others due to feelings of shame. Even those closest to me were unaware of my participation in serious temptations and passionate struggles from the past. However, no sin can remain hidden forever, and once my secrets were revealed, some individuals felt compelled to share my faults, resulting in the spread of slander and gossip. While some of the accusations were true, others were baseless. Learning about my hidden life caused pang to many, resulting in the loss of respected friendships, and inadvertently causing those close to me to suffer. I regret the hurt I caused to others and the disappointment I brought them.
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I deeply miss the friends that I lost during that time. They were dear to me, and I hold no anger towards them, even though they chose to abandon me when I needed them the most. As they say, hurting people hurt people, and I understand that the way things unfolded was painful but not unusual or unexpected. I realize that the decisions I made and the actions I took were too shocking for them to comprehend, much less accept. I can only imagine the bombshell of thoughts that ran through their heads when they learned new particulars about me. Hence, I now comprehend that for some individuals, the sole way to cope with shocking feelings of pang was to push me away and attempt to erase me from their memory.
 
In an attempt to console their confused minds and explain myself, I spent a lot of time on the phone and meeting with my friends one-on-one. Unfortunately, my good intentions backfired, causing me and those once close to me even more despair. One friend even went as far as calling me a “serial liar” to my face, despite my numerous attempts to honestly and candidly answer his questions. His words were hurtful, but I understood his shock and disappointment. People didn't understand how I could have kept them in the dark for all those years, but they didn't know how painful it was for me.
 
As time went on, I found it increasingly difficult to control my emotions. My heart was tearing apart inside, and I felt a deep sense of anger towards my former friends for rejecting me. It was even more devastating when I discovered that a few of those closest to me had divulged my secrets to others, causing me immense pain, embarrassment and a sense of betrayal. I began to resent the friends which I had once loved, and the pang eventually turned into bitterness, fueling a desire for vengeance and the hope that judgment should be executed against them for what they had done.
 
I am deeply grateful to God for His immense patience and guidance during this difficult time. He used His Word to speak to my heart and prevent me from causing any further damage to myself or other relationships I cherished.
 
For the next four months, I devoted myself to studying the life of King David as chronicled in the books of First and Second Samuel in the Holy Bible. Through this study, I came to understand more deeply that David, despite being tempted on several occasions to seek revenge against those who had closely known him and had wronged him, yet he consistently acted in righteousness and resisted the temptation to retaliate. Despite David's loyalty and goodness to his father-in-law, King Saul, yet Saul still sought to kill him. Despite David’s son Absalom's attempts to undermine David’s throne and get rid of him, David remained composed and caring towards him. Despite David always taking care of people across the nation, a man named Shimei openly humiliated David without cause, and David chose not to retaliate or take action.
 
Time after time in David’s life he was backstabbed and tempted to revenge himself, yet David consistently behaved with wisdom and prudence. His godly manners prompted me to reflect on my own emotions and desires, and their impact on others. For example, when David had an opportunity to harm Shimei after being publicly slandered, David commanded his comrades: “let him alone, and let him curse; for the LORD hath bidden him. It may be that the LORD will look on mine affliction, and that the LORD will requite me good for his cursing this day” (2 Samuel 16:11-12). David’s words on many occasions, spoken in moments of temptation and raw emotions, demonstrated a man equipped with a good attitude, who had learned to trust God’s sovereignty, and thereby was able to righteously respond to vengeful temptations. His words resonated within me and caused me to repent of the anger and vengeful thoughts inside me. Through prayer and reflection, I began to kindle a love for those whom I had hurt, and to understand the pang that I had caused them.
 
An earlier incident in David’s life that greatly inspired me was when he faced a dangerous situation with his father-in-law King Saul, who was relentlessly pursuing to kill him. To evade Saul's madness, David and his comrades sought refuge in a cave. One night, Saul and his troops unknowingly entered the same cave where David and his men were hiding. While Saul was sound asleep, one of David's warriors, Abishai, urged him to take advantage of the situation and kill Saul with a single spear thrust. David's response, however, revealed his good heart and his unwavering trust in God's sovereignty in the face of adversity. He refused to harm Saul, and declared that only God had the right to judge him. David's faith in God's justice and his refusal to retaliate against his enemy are truly remarkable, considering the extent of the injustices he had suffered (2 Samuel 26:7-11).
 
As I reflected on many other stories of David's life, I sensed a gentle whisper from God urging me to seek no harm toward anyone, neither in their lives nor in my own heart. I recognized and accepted my responsibility for creating a situation that had caused pang to others and I questioned the value of holding onto anger and bitterness. I recognized that such negative emotions only serve to destroy a person, and never builds anyone up. As a result, I made a conscious decision to follow David's example and approach all of my interactions with others with wisdom, righteous behavior, and compassion.
 
Over time, God granted me an enlarged heart with a little more love, and I began to grasp a tiny fraction of His unfathomable wisdom and love in dealing with me and others. It's possible that the Lord used my sins and the resulting pang to accomplish His good will. I realized that God is ultimately in control, allowing both good and bad to occur for His will to be accomplished in the greater scheme of things. Though others may slander me, I decided to let them do so, while remaining committed to living with honesty and humility before God, even if it means personal sacrifice. My ultimate allegiance is to God alone, and it's possible that He will look on my afflictions, pity me, and show me mercy. In the end, the Lord will judge everyone, whether sinners or saints, and repay them according to their deeds.
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Victim of Slander?

3/7/2023

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HAVE YOU EVER BEEN THE VICTIM of slander? If you haven't, consider yourself lucky. But if you've experienced it, you understand the gut-wrenching feeling of knowing that someone is attacking your good name and character behind your back. You feel defamed, and it's hard to imagine how many others have listened to the hearsay against you. Even worse, some people may believe the gossip being spread.
 
Slander is a serious matter that can have long-lasting consequences. Whether it's a malicious rumor or a deliberate attempt to harm your character, slander can damage your personal and professional relationships, as well as your overall sense of well-being.
 
I can personally relate to the deep pang of slander. In 2016, I found myself in a harrowing situation when four leaders from a local organization, which I was a member, took it upon themselves to smear my name worldwide. While I had occasional limited dealings with two of them, the other two had been my friends for several years. They had heard hearsay about a personal matter pertaining to a struggle that I’ve dealt with for years. One spring afternoon, I received a phone call requesting me to join three of them in a private meeting. What started as a meeting of concerned friends soon transformed into more of an interrogation session than a discussion on what was best for the situation. Despite my honesty and humility, two of them responded with sharp words that pierced my heart, unable to accept my answers. Nonetheless, I had great peace that I had done the right thing by being truthful and transparent. The meeting ended in an awkward manner. They thanked me for my time. One ended by saying, “Lawrence I’m available by just a phone call away if you need anything.” And another remained silent, with a troubled expression that suggested he had been part of something objectionable. I said my goodbyes and never saw them again.
 
After several months had passed and summer began, I flew to Ohio to collaborate with other organizations for a State-wide conference that my ministry was preparing to host to combat Human Sex Trafficking. Out of nowhere I began to receive phone calls from friends in leadership roles who oversee fantastic ministries. They all had one thing in common. They had received a phone call with the conversation being slanderous about me. Of course they had questions, and with much embarrassment, I openly answered them.
 
The situation also helped me to distinguish my true friends from those who proved not to be. It was painful to discover that one friend in Mexico, whom I used to assist, didn't even bother to give me a call. Instead, he sent me a hurtful text message, stating that I should NEVER contact him or anyone from his ministry again. It was shocking to receive such bitter words. However, the smear campaign also brought me closer to a few individuals who genuinely cared about me. They were upset and reached out to me with sincere concern. They made inquiries without being critical and prayed with me over the phone. They even offered to help in any way they could to strengthen me.
 
About a month later, I started receiving phone calls and messages via social media from acquaintances who I had met during my travels for ministry around the United States. I was stunned to hear that my struggles were being spread around without my consent. It made me angry to know that individuals who had no business of knowing about my issues were finding out through the grapevine. In response, I turned to prayer and PRAYED A LOT. As more people inquired, I saw it as an opportunity to remind them that every single one of us has some form of struggle; none of us is God. We have God that we might seek Him because all of us are weak and in need of His grace.
 
After months of dealing with the humiliating phone calls, I was completely drained in every sense of the word. The experience of being smeared was extremely painful, and I felt betrayed and deeply hurt. It was overwhelming to cope with people's criticisms, negative comments, and judgment, but what hurt the most was losing some of my friends. I was shattered on the inside, and I hit a new low point in my life. I felt emotionally numb, and I even contemplated suicide.
 
I am forever grateful to God that He saw me through and I didn't give in to suicidal thoughts. As I slowly started to feel emotions again, I found myself struggling with feelings of anger towards the men who had smeared my name. This anger deeply bothered me because I didn't want to be consumed by bitterness and resentment. I realized that anger is destructive, and it would only harm me in the long run, and these four men would never know the pain they caused me as they easily moved on with their lives.
 
It really was a struggle because I couldn’t remove the anger out of my heart. And I began having vengeful thoughts that I knew were wrong and I didn’t want to entertain them. It was a difficult process, as I found it hard to shake off the vengeful bitterness in my heart. I turned to prayer and pleaded with God to help me let go of anger and forgive those who had hurt me. And God heard my prayers!
 
One morning, during my usual quiet time with God, I was reading the Holy Bible when a particular passage caught my attention. It led me to Psalm 141, where a specific verse resonated with me deeply. As I read verse 5, I knew God was giving me the answer on how to deal with slander.

Psalm 141:5 says: “Let the righteous smite me; it shall be a kindness: and let him reprove me; it shall be an excellent oil, which shall not break my head: for yet my prayer also shall be in their calamities.” 
 
How should you and I deal with those who slander us? What can we do if we’ve been a victim of slander? This scripture offers invaluable wisdom on how to respond if you have been the victim of slander. It provides guidance on both internal and external responses, revealing a powerful strategy for dealing with those who have spread gossip about you. Moreover, it offers comfort and direction on what you should do during this difficult time."
                  
This verse is rich with meaning and could be the subject of an entire book. However, here are some quick principles to consider:
 
The Bible says: “Let the righteous smite me; it shall be a kindness…” God exemplified before us how to conduct ourselves in times of suffering. Christ, who took up human flesh and did not sin, allowed Himself to be smitten. He is our example, and we should follow His footsteps. The “righteous” are all the people we hold dear: Christians, family member, friends, co-workers, etc. God instructs us to turn the other cheek and allow ourselves to be smitten. To “smite” means to strike, afflict or attack physically or mentally, causing sudden pang. When someone slanders us, they are smiting us; they are inflicting harm upon us both mentally and tangibly. In other words, God is cautioning that if we find ourselves being slandered, we should not be caught off guard; we should allow it to occur and endure its pang. But why would we choose to do this? Because “it shall be a kindness.” In other words, God will turn their evil around for His glory and our favor. In the midst of pang, we can learn important lessons such as compassion and develop a wise temperament that can open future opportunities for God’s favor and goodness. Kindness is a valuable disposition that can attract favor and blessing.
 
The verse continues: “let him reprove me; it shall be an excellent oil, which shall not break my head…” God repeats that we are to allow someone to continue in their disapproval against us. To “reprove” means to criticize, to disapprove of strongly, censure or refute. If we patiently endure the hardship, God promises that all the turmoil in His hands shall be used as “excellent oil.” His oil is not like the temporary relief the world offers, but rather a lasting solution that promotes healing, strengthening, teaching and training toward a promotion of excellence. And if you might be wondering if this approach is safe, God assures us, “which shall not break my head,” as if to affirm, “yes” your capacity to lead, perceive, discern and direct will not be broken. Embracing and enduring slander is an opportunity for growth and excellence which can actually help us become better leaders in ministry, at home, work, and around the community.
 
The scripture ends with an important message: "for yet my prayer also shall be in their calamities." It's important to note that God expects us to pray for those who have wronged us. When we seek Him in prayer for our offenders, not just for ourselves, the Lord will stand with us and strengthen us in our difficulties. Prayer does not so much change things around us as it can transform us in difficult situations. It is not only the offender who needs God’s help, we too need His help to overcome anger or desire for revenge. Instead, God desires our hearts to be filled with compassion. As the Lord says, "Vengeance is mine." God will handle our offenders in His own way and time. Therefore, we should focus on praying and aligning our hearts with God's perspective, so that if judgment does come upon our offenders, we will not rejoice in their difficulties. Instead, we will serve them in their times of need through intercessory prayer.
 
These valuable principles took me some time to grasp and put into practice in my life. It’s regrettable that none of the three men who had such significant leadership roles and influenced many lives are still serving in those positions. However, I have had to humble myself and apply these principles, and they have helped me tremendously. I have countless hours in prayer for these men, beseeching God to show them mercy. As followers of Christ, we should all desire mercy rather than judgment, kindness instead of vengeance. By doing so, we can open ourselves up to God’s blessings and favor in our lives. 
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Do You Feel Abandoned, Forgotten by God and Man?

3/6/2023

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THE LORD GOD IS NOT WILLING that any should perish, and He makes great efforts to reveal Himself to sinners, as is the case in the renowned French philosopher François-Marie d'Arouet, best known by his penname Voltaire. Despite being a proud atheist who ridiculed God, Voltaire rejected the idea of being accountable to a higher Being. He openly mocked God, and at one point said of Jesus Christ, "Curse the wretch." However, on his deathbed, Voltaire recognized his grave error and uttered the words, "I am abandoned by God and man."
 
Voltaire’s life story is a sad testament that reminds us it is man who abandons God, not God who abandons man. The LORD is faithful and His mercies are renewed every morning (Lam. 3:22-23). Despite Voltaire’s fervent rejection of God and disdain for Christianity, God did not give up on Voltaire. On his deathbed, God reached out to him one last time, giving him a supernatural awareness that His presence had been withdrawn. This newfound understanding should have provoked Voltaire to recognize his need for Christ; and with sorrow he should have cried out: “I have abandoned God and man; LORD save thou this wretched sinner!” And God would have saved Him. However, instead of turning towards God, he rejected his last chance for redemption and put the blame on God. Later with his final breaths, he blasphemed the name of God, crying for all the world to know, “I am abandoned by God and man! I shall go to hell! O Christ! O Jesus Christ!”
 
​Do you ever feel abandoned by God and man? While it's inevitable for people to sometimes forget about you, ignore or leave you alone, God never abandons, forsakes, or forgets anyone. So, why do some individuals experience situations where it seems God has abandoned us? The man David in Psalm 13 may provide some insight into this matter.
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During the time when David wrote Psalm 13, he was accompanied by around four hundred men who were distressed, in debt, and discontented. David was going through emotional upheaval and had no one to encourage him! David had not yet become Israel’s favorite king, and he was running for his life from King Saul, who had gone mad. Due to Saul's erratic behavior, people in the kingdom were afraid to associate with David, as they feared they would become the target of the king's irrational judgment. As a result, David was constantly fleeing to new locations. And at this point he found refuge in a cave outside of a town called Adullam.
 
David was sitting in unfamiliar territory, and he found himself completely isolated and separated from all his loved ones, with no one to turn to for comfort or support. The group of men with him, I would hardly call comrades. They were leaning to him for help! And under all this despair and perplexity, David felt the whole world and even God abandoned him.
 
From within the cave David sat back and penned these words:
How long wilt thou forget me, O LORD? for ever? how long wilt thou hide thy face from me? How long shall I take counsel in my soul, having sorrow in my heart daily? how long shall mine enemy be exalted over me? Consider and hear me, O LORD my God: lighten mine eyes, lest I sleep the sleep of death; Lest mine enemy say, I have prevailed against him; and those that trouble me rejoice when I am moved. But I have trusted in thy mercy; my heart shall rejoice in thy salvation. I will sing unto the LORD, because he hath dealt bountifully with me. 
David began the psalm questioning God: “LORD where are You?” Perhaps like David you can empathize. You find yourself living in a cave. Maybe not a physical one, but a place where your emotions, circumstances, and well-being are disconnected from others and from God. Like David, you look at your life and wonder, “God, what is happening?” “Why am I forgotten?” “Where are you God?” And naturally you feel like you just can’t go on!
 
As a follower of Jesus Christ, regardless of the extent of our spiritual maturity, it’s possible to reach a point so low we actually feel that everyone—even God—has abandoned us. That was David’s desperate condition; he was vulnerable and couldn’t stop these feelings of despair, loneliness, and hopelessness.
 
When we allow our emotions to sweep us away to oblivion, we interpret our troubles to mean that we’ve lost God and His blessings. This is absolutely not so! God does not forsake! God does not abandon! God does not forget! God does not let go of His children! GOD STAYS NEAR.
 
David was going through an emotional meltdown—his feelings were in disarray and out of control. However, he had a turning point. David cried out to God in prayer! All he had to do to rise above the downward drag of his emotions was to look up and talk to the Lord—the One he thought had abandoned him!
 
And so when you and I begin to find ourselves in an emotional meltdown—feeling disillusioned as if all the world has turned upside down and God has abandoned us, then quickly we need to stop in our tracks, take a deep breath, and get alone with God in prayer. I’m not talking about a quick prayer. I mean a good, long time in prayer—calling out to God; crying to Him, and giving all our burdens to Him until the tears have all dried up and we are filled with God’s peace.
 
In Psalm 13 David wrote, “Consider and hear me, O LORD my God: lighten mine eyes, lest I sleep the sleep of death (vs. 3). In his simple prayer, David asked the LORD for three things:
 
1. Look at me: David wrongly felt as if God had turned His back on him, so he asked the Lord to turn around and look at him.
2. Answer me: David mistakenly felt like God had stopped talking to him. David was asking the Lord to let him hear His voice again, just as he had in the old days; he wanted God to answer him. Applying that to today, this is when we should open God's Holy Bible, daily, and say, “Open Your Word to my heart again. Let me cling to Your truth. Help my unbelief!”
3. Restore me: David was saying, “Lift up my spirit, Lord, so I can see You! I want fellowship with You, God.
 
After David’s short prayer, he was able to end his psalm declaring, “I will sing unto the LORD, because he hath dealt bountifully with me.” Though his circumstances were out of control, David chose to believe that God was at work and that he still had God’s favor. Therefore he made the decision to praise and sing unto the Lord. And so it is for you and me; after we pray, we too need to adopt the same attitude: to choose to believe God and focus on God instead of the circumstances. Then and only then can we praise and sing to God. Yes, we need to incorporate in our daily lives times of singing, shouting and praising the LORD. God is at work still. 
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Who Are You Surrendering To?

3/3/2023

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ON MY PODCAST, "DINNER WITH LAWRENCE," I recently led a discussion centered on the question of who one submits to, particularly surrendering to God. After the podcast received a significant number of listeners, I realized that it could serve as an edifying resource for readers as well. This led me to consider sharing my thoughts on the topic in a blog post, so that people could reflect on the discussion further. With this in mind, I would like to share my reflections on the question, "Who are you surrendering?”

SURRENDER—according to the Noah Webster 1828 Dictionary—means to give in; to relinquish; to give up; to resign; to submit; to yield. This is what the dictionary paints as the picture of surrender. Normally, the word is seen in a negative context. For example, people in the criminal justice system have to “surrender in the name of the law” when they are in trouble. Or, in wars, one side surrenders to another. Surrender is a sign one has given up any hope for victory. Hence, to surrender is to yield or give up something to the authority or power of another, such as rights.

I have shown in the earlier chapters that we need to separate ourselves for the Lord so that we may live in a spirit of prayer. The next attribute a determined Christian needs to take upon himself is to be resolute in a spirit of surrender to God. Surrender, meaning to forsake sin and yield ourselves to Christ’s righteousness.

Romans 6:16 asks a good question: “Know ye not, that to whom ye yield yourselves servants to obey, his servants ye are to whom ye obey; whether of sin unto death, or of obedience unto righteousness?” You and I are able to yield ourselves as servants for righteousness because of the love of Christ which is abundantly bestowed upon us. The scripture explains: “For the love of Christ constraineth us”; because Christ died for all, that we who live should not henceforth live for ourselves, but for Him who died and rose again for us (2 Corinthians 5:14-15). We know how to surrender and submit to God because we have this example: “To wit, that God was in Christ, reconciling the world unto himself” (2 Corinthians 5:19). God has given to us who are in Christ Jesus the ministry of reconciliation; also, God has committed to us the word of reconciliation. Hence, we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God did beseech people by us (2 Corinthians 5:18-20).

The scriptures make this clear, saying, “If any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new” (2 Corinthians 5:17). Therefore, we should walk in newness of life; and this can only come by total surrender to God: a complete yielding of our wants, desires, hopes, aspirations, and all to God. You will never walk as Christ walked until you yield and submit your all to God.

The day of your salvation was the beginning of your involvement in the glorious victory over the enemy. You chose to abandon the enemy’s side and enlisted yourself as one of God’s soldiers. Therefore, what kind of soldier are you choosing to be?

You will never launch into the deep with God or understand the precious concerns on God’s heart if you do not relinquish yourself entirely to Christ and His mission. There is a spiritual battle, and if you are to be part of the conquest you must surrender yourself entirely to God for His service. We are commanded to “endure hardness, as a good soldier of Jesus Christ” (2 Timothy 2:3). If you are to be a good soldier then you must discipline yourself daily to yield to God. “No man that warreth entangleth himself with the affairs of this life; that he may please him [God] who hath chosen him to be a soldier” (2 Timothy 2:4).

Normally there are anxieties and worries that come along with surrendering to another, but not in surrender to God. The good news is that, as Christians, worry and anxiety are absent when we yield to God. Surrendering to God is absolutely positive, not negative. God’s commandments are not grievous (1 John 5:3), they are liberating; they keep us in the boundaries of safety and protect us from sinful choices that cause harm and lead to death.
Surrender to God grants a believer the opportunity to enjoy God because He is our exceedingly great reward (Genesis 15:1). The believer who is enjoying God is the one who is living life more abundantly. If a Christian surrenders to God, he does not do so under forced subjugation by God. God does not force anyone to walk with Him. The true character and nature of God allows individuals to make their own decision to submit to Him.

As we seek to surrender our all to God, we seek to yield all our life’s ownership; we are to relinquish control of all that we consider ours: not only our possessions, but also our time, ambition, choices, influences, friends, prestige, and self-entitlements, including “perceived rights” and the striving for selfish wants. When we surrender to God, we are simply acknowledging that what we “own” actually belongs to Him. In other words, a surrendered Christian realizes the truth that what he thinks is his actually belongs to God and not to him. Thankfully, God is so longsuffering and shows much mercy toward us, because we certainly on occasions find ourselves handling matters incorrectly.

God is the giver of all good things (James 1:17). We surrender because we understand that we are responsible to properly care for what God has given us. We are stewards of the time, property, resources, and life that God has given to us. A surrendered decision helps us to acknowledge that we need His intervention in the stewardship of matters He allows us to be involved in. We admit that God is ultimately in control of everything, including our present circumstances, whether good or bad, when we are surrendered to God. We let go of whatever has kept us away from wanting God’s ways first by yielding to God. Surrendering to God helps us to let go of whatever has been holding us back from God’s best.

God requests us to submit all to Him. This submission then allows us to experience a joyous love relationship with Him, as well as being used by Him for His pleasure and glory. Moreover, God has demonstrated how we should give all to Him by the example of the Lord Jesus Christ. “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son. Though he were a Son, yet learned he obedience by the things which he suffered” (John 3:16; Hebrews 5:8).

God’s love toward us constrains Him so much that Christ delightfully took on a body of flesh. The scriptures tell us, saying, “He made himself of no reputation, and took upon him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men: And being found in fashion as a man, he humbled himself, and became obedient unto death, even the [sacrificial] death of the cross” (Philippians 2:7-8).

The scriptures also explain the amazing reason God became man. It says, “For ye know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that, though he was rich, yet for your sakes he became poor, that ye through his poverty might be rich” (2 Corinthians 8:9). God, who was rich, became poor for our sakes—that is, poorer than any human has ever been, so poor that He occupied a manger (Luke 2:7)—so that one day we might occupy Heaven. He was so poor that He had nowhere to lay His head (Luke 9:58)—in order that you and I, who are among His favored ones, might rest our heads forever in His sacred bosom.

There is an intimation of the wonder of God in the eighth chapter of Proverbs. In this chapter we are taken back into the eternal counsels of God and are permitted to witness something of the relationship that existed between the Father and the Son before earth’s foundations were laid: “Then I was by him, as one brought up with him: and I was daily his delight” (vs. 30). Further in the next verse, we read the words of Christ, spoken prophetically, or in anticipation, saying, “…and my delights were with the sons of men.”

The verse says, “My delights”. Not only were we present in Christ’s thoughts, not only did we stand before His mind in eternity past, but His heart was also concentrated on us; Christ’s affections went out to us. We were His “delights” even then. We cannot truly comprehend this, how God delights to be with such sinful worms of the earth! Truly, the writings of the Prophet Isaiah, inspired by the Holy Spirit, were accurate in describing God’s thoughts, saying, “For my thoughts are not your thoughts…For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my thoughts than your thoughts” (Isaiah 55:8-9).

Not all the mysteries of God are revealed and understood during this present dispensation. Right now we behold the glory of the Lord as if looking at it in a glass (2 Corinthians 3:18). The delight of God is glorious beyond comprehension when we try to take in the fact that God the Son stepped out of eternity into space and time on this tiny speck of dust called Earth. When Jesus took on flesh and walked upon this earth He took upon Him a glory of a more humble fashion than what He shared with the Father in eternity. We are given some insight into this in the Gospel of John. Just before Christ went to the cross He prayed to the Father, saying, “And now, O Father, glorify thou me with thine own self with the glory which I had with thee before the world was” (John 17:5).

Even more remarkable is Christ’s comparison to that of a lion. Jesus is the Lion of Judah (Hosea 5:14). The amazing glory of God is that the Lion made Himself into a Lamb; nevertheless, He still is a Lion. Today, the Lion who has the power to execute His wrath upon sin presents Himself as God’s gentle Lamb, reckoning the world to be alive to God through Jesus Christ our Lord. For the power of God is not best demonstrated by what He can do but is best demonstrated by what He can do yet does not by choice. Second Peter 3:9 makes known that the “Lord…is longsuffering to us-ward, not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance.”

Jesus Christ through His incarnation was made a little lower than the angels to suffer death so that He by the grace of God should taste death for every man (Hebrews 2:9). God became man, and in a body of flesh and blood He who knew no sin was made sin for us, "that we might be made the righteousness of God in Him" (2 Corinthians 5:21).

“Seeing then that we have a great high priest, that is passed into the heavens, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold fast our profession. For we have not an high priest which cannot be touched with the feeling of our infirmities; but was in all points tempted like as we are, yet without sin” (Hebrews 4:14-15). Now this is the love of God! It is a wonderful love that passes all knowledge. Christ is our perfect example and by His willingness to lead by example gives us confidence and hope. Christ’s love, our example, now constrains us, that we should walk in Him: "rooted and built up in Him, and established in the faith" (Colossians 2:6-7). 
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The Assistance of Prayer

3/2/2023

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PRAYER IS THE LIFE and oxygen of a Christian. Without prayer in the Christian’s life, there can be no power in his testimony before the world. God gives us orders through His written Word. We are given clarity as to His orders by prayer. A prayerless Christian is a powerless Christian. Likewise, a prayerless Christian cannot be an effectual servant of God. You might be a believer in Christ, but without prayerfulness you certainly cannot be one who is correctly positioned in the Lord’s work; your communications with God are deprived.

Prayer does not so much change things around us as it changes us in the situations of life. God has so constituted things that prayer on the basis of redemption alters the way in which a man looks at things. Prayer brings about wonders in a man’s disposition.

Just as the body is deprived when it does not have food, the spirit is deprived when it does not have prayer. Prayer is the way the life of God is nourished within a believer. Prayer is the food that makes you less self-sufficient and more God-sufficient. We can either starve or nourish our relationship with God.

The scriptures exhort us in Romans 12:12 to continue persevering in prayer. Ephesians 6:18 instructs us to be always in the mindset of prayer and supplication. That word supplication means coming to God pleading for something; such as asking God to reprove people of sin, righteousness, and judgment, or entreating God to raise up and send forth more laborers into His harvest. This is intercessory prayer and we are to intercede for others who do not know to pray (1 Timothy 2:1).

In Genesis chapter 18 when the Lord revealed to Abraham that He was going to judge and destroy the wicked cities of Sodom and Gomorrah, Abraham was immediately concerned for his family dwelling in Sodom. The scriptures tell us that Abraham “stood yet before the LORD” (Genesis 18:22). He began to intercede before God for Lot's family. Abraham steadfastly continued to intercede for them until God made it clear that they would be saved from judgment.

We need to be steadfast in our prayers for people as Abraham was for his family. We need to be determined in asking the Lord to extend mercy toward people. We need to stand in the gap before God and people as intercessors and pray that God would extend more kindness, grace, and longsuffering toward them. For the Lord’s work of wrath and judgment is His strange act (Isaiah 28:21), and although God eventually metes out righteous judgment, the Lord delights to demonstrate longsuffering, mercy, and grace, especially in response to believers’ prayers.

May we be found engaging bountifully in prayer; So Philippians 4:6 will be true of us: a people careful for nothing. How good it is to be free from anxiety and worry, and to live in peace of mind! Then, no matter what our present state is, we can thank God for what He is doing and will do in the future. We do not have to worry about anything. We do not have to be anxious, but we can live in peace of mind with thankfulness through both the good and perplexing situations, waiting patiently to see what the Lord will do.

Prayer assists us in embracing what God’s sovereignty presents in this life. It enables us to accept even those troublesome unexpected circumstances that come our way. Prayer helps us to be patient and not to ask God to remove baffling conditions, but instead to ask God for the grace and perseverance to walk with Him through the dark valleys and shadows of death.

A determined Christian living life more abundantly learns to seek God in prayer to understand how God may be best glorified (John 14:13-14, 15:16, 16:23-26). He seeks God’s interests instead of the things that interest and comfort him. His prayers become more God-centered and less self-centered. Soon, he finds himself thinking less much about himself and much more about the things of God.

If a Christian desires to be useful for the kingdom of God, then he must decide to be an individual who uses the tool of prayer frequently. We can be greatly encouraged by the many testimonies in the Bible of people who sought God in prayer for strength, wisdom, knowledge, and direction. We see Moses pleading with God for a deeper revelation (Exodus 33), Samuel crying unto the LORD for his people (1 Samuel 7:9 and 1 Samuel 12:23), Elijah casting himself down before God (1 Kings 18:41-46), and Daniel communing with and thanking God (Daniel 6:10). Each man regularly sought God in prayer; they cast their burdens upon the LORD, and God sustained them so that they were not moved.

These examples should grip our hearts and inspire us toward more prayer with the Lord, always. They illustrate how powerful prayer is and how essential it is for man. Prayer helps our hearts to be positioned in agreement with God in what He says and does. God is pleased to use the prayers of His people to accomplish His purpose in this world. Prayer does not bend the unwilling God to be favorably disposed toward us. Prayer, however, is the means that God uses to accomplish many of His plans through us. Prayer bends us.

Prayer is a supernatural divine privilege. It is a precious gift God gives us. The responsibility of this gift is filled with the satisfaction of helping the helpless, and of seeing the purpose of God fulfilled and the strategies of Satan thwarted. The real work of God is executed in the unseen arena of prayer. We are often given opportunities to see the results of our prayers in this visible world; however, God is also doing much more behind the scenes of life, acting in response to those who labor daily in prayer.

Exodus 17 vividly illustrates this reality. As the Israelites engaged in a pitched battle with the Amalekite army on the plain of Rephidim, Moses stood atop a hill overlooking the battlefield. Whenever he held up his arms with the rod, Israel prevailed. But when he lowered his arms, the Amalekites would gain the advantage of the battle. The clear principle emerges from this account that God acts in response to the prayers of His intercessors, supernaturally enabling those He has called to accomplish the assigned task. Moses’ part in the victory of the battle, though it was probably unseen and unnoticed by those in the fight, without a doubt was vital.

Our role in the work of God throughout the world may be unnoticed, unseen, or unappreciated. This is alright. Like Moses, God calls you and me to “hold up the rod of prayer before God.” God sees those who faithfully come before Him in prayer. He takes account of individuals’ faithfulness behind the scenes in prayer.

The dilemma is that there needs to be more intercessors. Ezekiel 22:30 declares that God is searching for Christians who will stand in the gap as intercessors between Him and people. The scripture says, “And I [God] sought for a man among them, that should make up the hedge, and stand in the gap before me for the land, that I should not destroy it: but I found none.” There is indeed a gulf between God and His creation, and that gulf is sin. The destructive effects of sin in the lives of people saddens God; therefore, God seeks individuals to share His care for them. God seeks Christians who will prove their love for man by involving themselves to intercede on people's behalf before God. How sad that in Ezekiel’s day God had difficulty finding intercessors. Today, we believers in Christ are given the same opportunity to do what God could not find anyone to do in Ezekiel’s day—to demonstrate our love for man by being intercessory prayer warriors. The question is, will God today find you involving yourself in intercessory prayer?

May God not look at you or me today and say He cannot find us standing in the gap, prayerfully interceding for people. We must take our part in God’s program seriously and intercede for others through prayer (1 Peter 4:7). We need to be determined to develop the same attitude that Samuel had for Israel. He exclaimed in 1 Samuel 12:23, “[God] forbid that I should sin against the LORD in ceasing to pray for you.” What an attitude! What a stance to take upon oneself before the Lord!

Remember, God is not an explanation; God is a revelation. In our prayers, we need to implore God that He will reveal sin, judgment, and His righteous plan of salvation to people. It does not matter how well or eloquently we can explain the gospel. If God does not reveal the truth, then there is no way in Heaven or Earth that we will be able to make the gospel clear to them. The gospel makes its appeal to a person’s sensibility, not their intellect. The way into the kingdom of God is the heart first, not the head. Therefore, when we try to witness and persuade people to trust the truth, we also need to stand in the gap and pray for them.

God reminds us in the Bible that if we are to be effectual servants of God then it is extremely important that we labor in prayer. It is so urgent that more than 500 times in the Holy Bible God emphasizes it, exemplifies it, teaches on it, and commands us to pray. (See the command in 1 Thessalonians 5:17 for just one example.)

So, as a recap, the Bible teaches that our prayers should consist of:
 
· Praising and adoring God for who He is (Hebrews 13:15)
· Confessing our sins to God (1 John 1:9)
· Petitioning God for our requests (Matthew 7:7-8)
· Interceding on the behalf of others to God (1 Timothy 2:1)
· Thanking God for the things He has done, is doing, and will do (Ephesians 5:20)
· Listening to God (Psalm 46:10)
· Obeying God (Jeremiah 7:23)
 
As I mentioned earlier, there is a bountiful supply of individuals’ prayers recorded throughout the Bible. Each prayer contains valid points to learn from. I encourage all believers to seek, find, and study all the prayers mentioned in the Bible. It will surely keep you busy and be a valuable study for you to gain much insight in how to rightly come before God’s throne. 
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Hurt By Criticism?

3/1/2023

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MANY OF US CAN RELATE to dealing with negative criticisms from our childhood that we hold onto and replay in our minds. As children, we often look up to our parents, caregivers and friends for guidance and support. However, sometimes these individuals can be the source of negative criticism and hurtful comments. These negative experiences can have lasting effects on our self-esteem, confidence, and overall well-being. If you're an individual who has experienced negative criticism as a child, know that it’s possible to move beyond and overcome these taunting memories and thrive in life.
 
Recently, I was listening to the story of a young successful businesswoman who makes delicious cookies. She revealed that her father felt she wasn't good enough because he had wanted a baby boy, not a girl. His constant criticism haunted her as she grew up, and she felt the need to prove to her father that she could be successful. She has worked intensely hard in life, driven by the motivation to show her biased father that she is good enough, successful, and worthy of love and admiration.
 
Some individuals have shared with me their ongoing struggle with feeling inadequate and not being “good enough” throughout their lifetime. It's possible that you can relate to this experience as well. Perhaps you've been subjected to discouraging comments from others in the past, causing you to doubt your potential. It can be challenging to release oneself from the weight of these negative words and recognize that they do not hold any truth. It's important to understand that the criticisms you once heard from others (especially from close relations such as family) now stem from within. Many people tend to internalize and repeat to themselves the idea that they are not good enough. But it's time to let go of these old lies and false criticisms. They hold no value and only serve to hinder your progress. It's essential to rid your mind of these negative thoughts. Cast them out and to stop telling yourself that you are not good enough.
 
We all talk to ourselves each and everyday. Negative criticism can often lead to negative self-talk, which can be damaging to your self-esteem and confidence. I encourage you to challenge these negative thoughts by practicing positive self-talk. Open your mouth and speak out loud positive words to yourself. Affirmations, such as "God has made me capable" or “God has given me the abilities and skills to do _____” can help shift your mindset and build a more balanced self-image.
 
Many of us fail to communicate with God on a daily basis, and even for those who do, the time spent in prayer averages only about five minutes per day, according to researchers. This is pitiful, because God, who created us and knows the incredible potential He has planned for us, is not granted sufficient time so that we should be quiet and listen to Him. God desires for us to be rooted in truth, built up and established so that we can live with confidence and achieve His excellence to maximize our potential. By spending time with Him, we can receive the encouragement needed to discover truth, thereby gaining strength to cast down lies and hurtful criticisms. God has abundant blessings to pour through us, and the best way to overcome negative criticisms and to move ahead is by prioritizing time with Him.
 
It is also imperative that you and I read the Holy Bible daily, and reflect on God's promises, instructions, and the many examples of people’s life stories that are given for us to learn from. God's Word is truth which can strengthen and help us overcome negative criticism through getting to know it more. Dealing with negative criticism can be challenging and damaging to our self-esteem and confidence, but reading God's Word can remind us of our true identity and our God given purpose. By focusing on His promises, we are empowered to develop the ability to reject negative criticisms and lies others have planted in our minds. As we gain understanding, we can learn to stop entertaining taunting thoughts from the past. The Bible also offers comfort and guidance to help us face these challenges. The many life stories of people who have overcome great adversity with God’s grace prove that we too can conquer old pangs. By following the teachings of the Bible, we can find inner peace and the confidence we need to defeat negative criticisms and move forward.
 
It is also important to recognize the impact of past negative criticism and take steps to overcome those taunting thoughts. Take time to reflect on how those experiences have affected your personal beliefs about yourself and recognize that you deserve to heal from them. Seeking support from positive friends and developing healthy coping mechanisms (some which I have mentioned earlier) can also help you overcome taunting thoughts.
 
Finally, it's crucial to practice forgiveness towards yourself and others. Negative criticism often reflects the insecurities and issues of the other person, rather than your worth. Forgiving yourself and others can help release emotional burdens that may be holding you back from living your best life. Remember that forgiveness is not about becoming friends with the offender or excusing their behavior. Rather, it's about releasing the emotional burden and allowing you to move forward in life. It is giving the offender's offenses to God and trusting in His justice. In doing this you will free yourself from being stuck in the past with negative criticisms and move towards a brighter future.
 
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What A Friend We Have In Jesus

2/28/2023

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God has a way of bringing good out of pain and suffering, and one such example is the story behind the well beloved hymn "What a Friend We Have In Jesus." The man behind the lyrics, Joseph Scriven, had a heart for serving the Lord. He was from Northern Ireland and had found a wonderful lady to marry. However, tragedy struck on the night before their wedding in 1843 when his fiancée accidentally drowned.
 
The following year, at the age of 25, Scriven left his native country and migrated to Canada to serve the Lord. But his time there was brief as he became very ill, and he returned for good in 1847. In 1855, he received devastating news that his mother was terribly ill, and he wrote a poem to comfort her. This poem was meant only for his mother's eyes, and he had no intention of publishing it.
 
However, a neighbor who was sitting with Scriven during another illness of his came across the poem in a desk and was delighted by it. The neighbor questioned Scriven about the poem, and he explained that he had written it for his mother to comfort her during a time of special sorrow. Somehow the poem was published in a newspaper and given the title “What A Friend We Have In Jesus.”
 
In 1857, Scriven fell in love again and was due to be married. But tragedy struck once more when his fiancée fell ill with pneumonia and passed away in August 1860. Scriven was heartbroken, but he continued to trust in God and find solace in the LORD.
 
In 1886, Scriven himself fell ill with fever and was brought to a friend's home to recover. On a hot night, he may have gone outside to cool down or get a drink of cold water from the spring. The next day, his friend was shocked to find Scriven's lifeless body in the nearby river. He had drowned.
 
Despite the many heartbreaks and pangs that Joseph Scriven endured in his life, his testimony of His God lives on through the hymn "What a Friend We Have In Jesus." Through his trials and struggles, Scriven found comfort in Jesus and was able to create something that has touched the hearts of millions of Christians around the world.
 
If you find yourself in a season of suffering or pain, it can be challenging to see beyond the present circumstances. However, it's essential to remember that God has a purpose. The LORD is able to bring about something good out of your tribulations. Perhaps you may not see the good today, but one day in the future, somebody or some millions of persons will be blessed because of the sufferings you are experiencing today. 
“WHAT A FRIEND WE HAVE IN JESUS”
 
What a friend we have in Jesus,
all our sins and griefs to bear!
What a privilege to carry
everything to God in prayer!
O what peace we often forfeit,
O what needless pain we bear,
all because we do not carry
everything to God in prayer!
 
Have we trials and temptations?
Is there trouble anywhere?
We should never be discouraged;
take it to the Lord in prayer!
Can we find a friend so faithful
who will all our sorrows share?
Jesus knows our every weakness;
take it to the Lord in prayer!
 
Are we weak and heavy laden,
cumbered with a load of care?
Precious Savior, still our refuge--
take it to the Lord in prayer!
Do your friends despise, forsake you?
Take it to the Lord in prayer!
In his arms he'll take and shield you;
you will find a solace there.
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IT IS HOPELESS?

2/27/2023

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DOES ALL SEEM HOPELESS? When you have no expectation of the future, it can lead to feelings of hopelessness and despair. You may believe that no matter what you do, think, or say, your situation won’t improve, so, “what’s the point?” This is hopelessness talking to you.
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I received a tangible reminder from God that even in the midst of seemingly hopeless situations; it is certain that there is always a renewed dawn of hope after prolonged periods of darkness. Just recently, during my 10-day trip to the United States, my heart sank when I returned home to El Salvador and found my once-beautiful hibiscus bush nearly lifeless. It was all withered and dried up with no signs of life. Despite my sadness, I decided to take action by providing it with plant food and consistent watering. To my surprise, within a week, it began to sprout new leaves. Now, one month later, the bush is flourishing once again, with an abundance of blossoms and fresh green leaves. This experience is a powerful reminder that even when today seems bleak and hopeless, God always offers the promise of renewed hope for tomorrow's future.
 
At times in life, we all experience moments when our journey takes us through the wilderness. It can be disheartening to find ourselves in these circumstances, especially when we cannot always see the light that is further down our journey. We might feel lost, uncertain, and unsure of how to proceed. We cannot always walk through refreshing valleys or triumphant mountaintops, but we can find comfort in recognizing that a new day of opportunities and fulfillments will arise. We will once again connect with new friendships, enjoy endeavoring new achievements, and experience inner peace with a resound purpose and meaning in life.
 
Regaining hope is possible, even if we are the culprit that causes our own demising. Life quite often is difficult. Unfortunately, during tough times, we are vulnerable to making wrong decisions and can find ourselves engaging in patterns of self-destructive behavior that lead us towards our own undoing. In these situations, we may feel like we've lost everything—people may leave us, forsake us, and want nothing to do with us anymore. But even in the darkest of moments, we must continue to move forward.
 
The good news is that it's possible to regain hope and turn things around for a productive future again. This may require significant effort and dedication, but with perseverance and a patient, determined mindset, we can take steps towards a brighter future. We need to find new things that work for us; whether that's a new career, a new passion, or new friends in a different location or healthy atmosphere. Seeking help from human connections, making positive changes to our habits and routines, and focusing on the good things in life are all ways to cultivate hope and move towards a more positive future. So, even when everything seems lost, remember that there's always a way to find hope and a way forward.
 
If you're feeling like you're your own worst enemy, there still is hope. Whether we're struggling with self-doubt, negative thought patterns, or we make self-destructive choices, it can be hard to escape the feeling that we are working against ourselves. But even in the darkest of moments, there is still hope. It's important to remember that we are not defined by our errors or shortcomings, and that with God’s grace we have the ability to change our circumstances. The future can look bright again by making new good choices today.
 
Every day, we are faced with a myriad of choices—some big, some small. And while it can be tempting to think of these choices as insignificant, the truth is that they can have a profound impact on our future. Today's choices influence and shape tomorrow's outcome, whether we realize it or not. That's why it's important to be intentional about the choices we make, taking the time to consider the potential consequences of each decision. By making conscious choices that align with God’s values (found in the Holy Bible), we can begin to move into a future that is hopeful. Of course, this is easier said than done—we all make mistakes, and life can be unpredictable. But by focusing on the things we can control and taking small steps towards our desired outcomes each day, we can begin to shape our future in a positive way. So, as you navigate the choices and decisions of each day, remember that they are shaping the path ahead. Choose wisely, and take comfort in the fact that you have the power to create a bright future.
 
For example, seek help from people who will be honest with you and encourage you, whether they are loved ones or new friends, a godly pastor or a prudent therapist. As well it is important to engage in self-care practices to help break free from negative patterns and cultivate a more positive outlook on life. For example, regardless of what tasks I have on my work schedule, I daily make it a priority to spend an hour each day with God, reading the Bible and praying, and to go exercise at the gym. Additionally, every week, I make it a point to venture outside the city to enjoy and explore the beauty of God's creation in nearby areas. By taking small steps towards self-improvement and self-love, we can begin to shift our mindset and embrace the possibility of a better future.
 
In addition, to overcome being our worst enemy, we must get our eyes off ourselves and onto helping others. It is imperative that we include in our lives times to go help, serve and minister to others in deed. Ministry does not just help those being served, ministry gives us important lessons and helps us in more ways than one knows.
 
Furthermore, in order to overcome being our worst enemy, it is crucial that at times we focus away from ourselves and towards helping others. It is imperative to incorporate opportunities to serve, help, and minister to others through action in our daily lives. By engaging in ministry, we not only aid those being served, but we also gain valuable lessons and personal growth that can positively impact us in ways we may not even realize. This is one of many reasons I am part of a local Bible-preaching church. Being part of a church offers us many ways to get plunged into some type of weekly ministry extending ourselves with others to help others.
 
Lastly, it is important to put a plan in place that can help you overcome feelings of hopelessness. It might help you see that you can achieve some things and that action can lead to positive outcomes. If possible, try to leave outcomes aside, and instead, consider focusing on actions. You could start by asking yourself these questions:
 
Finally, it is essential to establish a concrete plan of action that can aid in overcoming feelings of hopelessness. This can help cultivate a sense of empowerment and the realization that positive outcomes are achievable through action—taking repeatable healthy steps to a brighter future. Instead of fixating on outcomes, it can be beneficial to concentrate on actionable steps. To get started, consider asking yourself the following questions:
 
—How can I incorporate more time in prayer with God?
—What do I enjoy doing?
—What did I enjoy doing that I haven’t done recently?
—What hobbies can I engage in?
—What is one thing I want to get done today?
—What is one thing I want to get done this week?
—What are some limiting beliefs I hold that may get in the way of me getting stuff done?
—How can I get involved more with a Bible-preaching church?
 
It is also advisable that you take some time to reflect on your thoughts and emotions, determine what’s causing them, and write down on a notepad some possible solutions. Come up with a way to tackle these issues, discover coping mechanisms to manage any associated emotions, and make a plan for implementing and sustaining any necessary changes.
 
By persisting in implementing these wise practices, you will undoubtedly learn valuable lessons and gain wisdom that will prove beneficial as you navigate new opportunities and challenges. You will be grateful for the tools you've acquired as you journey again through refreshing valleys and triumphant mountaintops that await you
 
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Why Does God Give Afflictions?

2/24/2023

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HAVE YOU EVER WONDERED WHY the Lord allows afflictions in our lives? What could be the purpose behind God orchestrating events that are beyond our comprehension and lead to difficulties? One answer can be found by examining the life of the apostle Paul in the Holy Bible. His life is given to us as an example that we might be followers together of him, even as he also was of Christ.

We can learn through Paul’s life that afflictions serve a purpose in God's plan for our lives. In 2 Corinthians 1:3-7, Paul explained that the comfort we receive in times of affliction gives us the ability to comfort others who are going through similar struggles. By experiencing difficulties, we gain empathy and compassion for others, which enables us to be a source of comfort and strength for them.
           
One prime example from Paul’s life that is a great source of encouragement for me is his willingness to persevere even though God gave him a “thorn in the flesh, a messenger of Satan to buffet him.” Wow! It sounds intense whatever his difficulty was that he often battled. For sure, I never would want to be buffeted by a messenger of Satan. The scriptures tell us in 2 Corinthians 12:7-10, saying, “And lest I [Paul] should be exalted above measure through the abundance of the revelations, there was given to me a thorn in the flesh, the messenger of Satan to buffet me, lest I should be exalted above measure. For this thing I besought the Lord thrice, that it might depart from me. And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me. Therefore I take pleasure in infirmities, in reproaches, in necessities, in persecutions, in distresses for Christ's sake: for when I am weak, then am I strong.”

God desires to use each one of us in a meaningful way that impacts the lives of others for good, leveraging the unique abilities, gifts, and talents that He has blessed us with. However, it can be tempting to easily fall into the trap of arrogance, thinking that we are superior to others due to our God-given capabilities. To be productive with God's favor, it is essential for every child of God to cultivate a humble mindset and a meek spirit. Therefore, as in Paul's example, God may allow us to experience a "thorn in the flesh," a “messenger of Satan,” to humble us and prevent us from becoming overconfident and proud. By allowing us to face adversity or affliction, God can intervene and bring our minds into the right perspective.

The apostle Paul mentioned in the Corinthian letter that he besought the Lord three times, “that it [the buffeter of affliction] might depart from him.” Nevertheless, the Lord Jesus said unto him, “My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness.”

The Lord listens and answers all of our prayers. On occasion, He responds with a "Yes." However, there are times when God remains silent to test and teach us how to be still, rest in Him, and wait patiently.

God is full of bountiful mercy, loving kindness, and abundant longsuffering, but He also has an austere side when it comes to making decisions. The severity of God sometimes responds to our prayers with a negative. At times, God might convict our hearts that we should no longer seek Him regarding a particular matter because the answer is firm “No.” 

During times when God answers our prayers with a negative response, He may remind us that His grace is sufficient, even if we are consumed with feelings of hopelessness. As we decrease and allow Christ to increase, we recognize our dependence on Him and place our trust in His grace. Through humility, we can experience the sufficiency of God's grace, even amidst difficulties and disappointments. It is beneficial to forsake our hope in ourselves and instead turn to God as the source of our hope. In doing so, we open ourselves up to the transformative power of His grace.

Similarly to the Apostle Paul, who found joy in his weaknesses, necessities, and distresses, we should also learn to accept and embrace the sorrows and adversities that God assigns to us. In doing so, we can experience the power of Christ in our lives. Paul found confidence in humility and was willing to boast about his weaknesses because he understood that it was through his weakness that the power of Christ rested upon him: “for when I am weak, then am I strong” (2 Corinthians 12:10).

Therefore, we should not reject God's sovereignty over our lives but rather embrace it, recognizing that grace and affliction are two sides of the same coin. As we make ourselves available to Christ, we should accept and embrace our troubles. By decreasing our confidence in ourselves and increasing our confidence in God, we allow Christ to shine through our lives.

The Christian who is willing to let the power of Christ rest upon him understands the value of embracing personal weaknesses. Rather than trying to avoid or reject affliction, he rejoices in the opportunity to be made weak so that Christ can be magnified. By allowing Christ to increase and ourselves to decrease, we develop a deeper reliance on God and a stronger faith that can withstand any adversity, sorrow, or infirmity that comes our way. Ultimately, it is through our weakness that Christ can be seen in our lives.

Indeed, God gives us the bread of adversity and water of affliction, and they work to remove any independent, self-reliant mindset that could lead to overconfidence and stubbornness, and instead fill us with trust in the Lord. As it says in Proverbs 3:5-6, “trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths.” Therefore, we should embrace the adversity and affliction that God allows in our lives, recognizing that they are ultimately for our good and will help us grow in our faith and trust in Him.

We must be careful not to put our trust in things that are uncertain or temporary, such as our own abilities, money or material possessions. Instead, we should put our trust in the living God who is always faithful and true: in God alone!

When we allow pride to take root in our hearts, we run the risk of becoming unproductive in our relationship with God. It is important to stay grounded and humble, always remembering that any gifts or abilities we have are ultimately from God for His glory and the benefit of others. We should look to the examples of others as a reminder to stay on the right path and to walk in the fear of the Lord.

According to the scriptures, we are instructed to cast all of our cares upon the Lord; for He cares for us. We should remain sober and vigilant (1 Peter 5:7-8), resisting the temptation to focus on ourselves. We must stand firm in the faith, recognizing that our brothers and sisters in Christ are also experiencing the same afflictions in the world. The God of all grace will strengthen, settle and establish us after we have endured suffering for a little while.

Walking through valleys of suffering, infirmity, and weakness can be a difficult experience for anyone who walks by faith. It would be absurd to suggest that such a journey is a joyous amusement. However, a person of faith can have peace in the midst of their sufferings because they understand that God is sovereign and wise, and only gives them what is best for their life. They can also acknowledge that it is only by God's grace that they are able to persevere through these trials.

Although the cup of affliction may be bitter, it too shall pass. As the Psalmist says, "weeping may endure for a night, joy cometh in the morning" (Psalm 30:5). Those who sow in tears will reap in joy. Those who go forth weeping, bearing precious seed, will doubtless come again with rejoicing, bringing their sheaves with them (Psalm 126:5-6).

For unto you it is given in the behalf of Christ, not only to believe on Him, but also to suffer for His sake (Philippians 1:29). If we suffer, we shall also reign with Christ (2 Timothy 2:12). What a profound promise!

Therefore, it is important for us to persevere through our afflictions, infirmities, and weaknesses, as these provide opportunities for the Lord to glorify Himself. The grace that God supplies us through trials and afflictions is given for His glory, so that the Son of God might be glorified through us. Because many people are watching us, we should humble ourselves under the mighty hand of God, and embrace our struggles; our afflictions serve as a testimony to unbelievers that our hope in Christ is a true and living hope. Through our sufferings, others may come to believe in Christ, and in turn, He will be glorified.

The apostle Paul found joy in his afflictions because he was vigilant to observe how God was working through them for a greater purpose. In some of his letters, Paul explained that the unjust things that happened to him and his mission teams actually provided opportunities to spread the gospel of Christ to masses of more people. His "bonds of afflictions" were moments for Christ to be exalted before unbelievers who were watching his manner of life, even in the dark dungeons and difficult jailhouses. Many other believers were inspired and encouraged by his steadfastness in the face of adversity, and his sufferings helped them to grow in confidence and speak boldly about the Word of God without fear. Above all, his sufferings opened doors for him to proclaim the message of Christ's death, burial and resurrection for the forgiveness of sins. Therefore, he rejoiced in his afflictions and encouraged others to do the same.

Let us not nullify the grace of God that has been given to us. As believers, we have been made partakers of Christ if we remain steadfast in our confidence until the end. Therefore, let us not abandon our confidence, for it holds a great reward. (Hebrews 3:14; 10:35). But, “my beloved brethren, be ye stedfast, unmoveable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, forasmuch as ye know that your labour is not in vain in the Lord” (1 Corinthians 15:58). “And let us not be weary in well doing: for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not. And the Lord shall deliver [us] from every evil work, and will preserve [us] unto his heavenly kingdom: to whom be glory for ever and ever. Amen” (Galatians 6:9; 2 Timothy 4:8).
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Have you loved the wrong person?

2/24/2023

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HAVE YOU EVER LOVED THE WRONG PERSON? It's a common experience that happens to so many of us. Even the mightiest and most courageous heroes can be bitten by love and, with just a pinch of its spell dooms a person to failure.
 
A classic example of a valiant man struck by love for the wrong person is Samson from the Holy Bible. He was a brute, muscular, strong, and a savior of his people against enemies. However, he fell in love with a beautiful, favored woman, and quickly, he had fallen in love with her. His love for her brought about his downfall. She didn't reciprocate his feelings, and because of his insane love, he was blinded from common sense. She feigned love in order to extort and use him for selfish gain; taunting him and ultimately causing his destruction.
 
How is it possible for anyone to love the wrong person? First, the Bible tells us that our hearts are deceitful above all things and desperately wicked (Jeremiah 17:9), which is a daunting thought to realize. Second, we all desire to be loved, and that can lead us to make fanatical decisions when we find someone who seems to reciprocate our feelings.
 
Today, I don't want to preach or sound like a teacher. Instead, I want to open up and be transparent with you, my readers. Like everyone else in this world, whether you are a Christian or not, we all undergo life’s ebbs and flows—moments of ecstatic joy and excruciating heartaches. I hope that by sharing my own experiences and some points I've gleaned along the way, I can be of help and solace to you in your journey of life.
 
For many years, I went through life without knowing what it was like to love another human being. I'm not referring to a brotherly (phileo) love or the godly (agape) love to better treat, serve, and minister to anyone and everyone. I am speaking about the profound, deep love that blossoms out of nowhere for another. The love that can cloud your judgment and make you want to spend as much time as possible with the love of your life. Even going the extra mile to rearrange your busy schedule just to see them and learn more about their interests.
 
I too can relate to this wonderful euphoria of love. After so many years of never knowing love, finally it happened to me. It wasn't something that I planned or decided to feel. I met that perfect someone through church, and we quickly became close friends as if we had known each other for years. We enjoyed each other's company, and there was never a dull moment in our conversations or times together when we hung out. Our friendship was natural, and we felt completely at ease around each other. There were no awkward moments.
 
As we continued to spend time together over several months, something inexplicable happened. The feeling of a deeper love, more than friendship, blossomed and grew stronger over time. It was comfortable for the both of us. We could look into each other’s eyes and feel comfortable that we were with our beautiful friend. We wanted the best for each other and were willing to support each other through life's ups and downs. We felt comfortable praying and reading the Bible together. Our love had blossomed and become something that we never expected but were grateful for.
 
And the wonderful thing that happened was that our love gave birth to a beautiful relation. We built trust and became each other's confidants.
 
However, our relationship came to an abrupt end, and my heart was shattered into pieces by the one I loved. Although I understand the reasons for the breakup, it was still an unfair and difficult experience. Sometimes in life, we have to accept loss and find a way to move on with God's help. People may try to console us, but they may not fully comprehend the intricacies of another’s relationships. It is through prayer, personal reflection based on God's Word, and the much passage of time that the heart begins to be mended so that we can move forward in life.
 
After passage of time, I now feel compelled to share this personal story. Through my experiences, I've learned valuable lessons in life. Despite having a public persona, I also value my privacy. I never felt the need to announce my wonderful relationship or publicly profess my love on social media. Although some close friends suspected that I was smitten, I maintained my composure and didn't reveal too much. However, after the breakup, these same friends noticed a change in my countenance, despite my efforts to pretend that everything was okay.
 
In retrospect, I've realized that it's impossible to hide one's emotions when in love. However, I've also learned the importance of valuing my privacy and keeping some aspects of my personal life private. While it's natural for others to be curious, I believe that certain things should be kept sacred and not shared with the world. Although the breakup was difficult, it reinforced the importance of maintaining a balance between sharing and withholding information.
 
Eventually after the breakup, word got out about our relationship, and unfortunately, some people made inaccurate judgments and criticisms. (Interestingly, people from afar.) Despite the gossip and speculation that some individuals engaged in, I made the conscious decision to stay quiet and move forward with my life. While it was disappointing to hear negative comments about my personal life, I recognized that it was not my responsibility to correct anyone's misconceptions. I and my love knew the truth, and we decided to keep our business private and not subject to anyone else's opinions or scrutiny. Ultimately, it was a personal matter that only concerned the two of us.
 
On a few occasions I have encountered situations that have bothered me. When something bothers me, I always take it to the LORD in prayer. Additionally, I make a habit of engaging in self-reflection and considering the criticisms of others. While I don't allow myself to become consumed by negative comments or opinions, I recognize the value in hearing and contemplating others' perspectives, as it can lead to personal growth and greater understanding. At the same time, I strive to maintain a sense of balance and not let the opinions of others dictate my sense of self-worth or influence my decisions.
 
I was deeply bothered when I overheard someone make a hurtful comment about my relationship, suggesting that I had loved the wrong person. While their words stung, I chose to reflect on the remark and consider whether our wonderful relationship had indeed been in vain. This made me also think about others through my life who had loved the wrong person. Many people have gone through this common experience, despite the pain and disappointment that may follow. However, I believe that these experiences can ultimately teach us valuable lessons and help us grow. Rather than dwelling on the hurtful words of others, I choose to focus on the positive aspects of my relationships and the lessons that I have learned from them.
 
If you have ever found yourself loving the wrong person, then you may find the following two lists to be of interest. You can use them to help others not to make your same mistakes. However, if you are unsure of what love truly entails, or you believe that presently you are with the right person even though your gut tells you otherwise, then I would recommend that you review the following points in order to determine whether or not you are truly in love with the right person.
 
A Health Relationship Involves:
 
1. You and your partner reciprocate good feelings for each other, making the relationship feel balanced.
2. You feel comfortable being your true self around them because you know they accept you for who you are.
3. Your partner is emotionally available and chooses to be close, leaving you feeling like your love is wanted and appreciated.
4. They show interest in your life and your relationship, and they care about your wants and needs.
5. They not only hear you when you talk but also listen and show interest in getting to know you on a deeper level.
6. Your partner makes you feel good about yourself, and you're confident about who you are when you're with them.
7. You can have satisfying conversations with them because you connect mentally, and they stay on topic and relate to you.
8. You feel like you know a lot about your partner, and they open up to you, inviting you into their personal space.
9. They appreciate you and don't take you for granted, causing your self-respect to grow, and staying in the relationship is the best option.
10. Your partner understands you beyond your words, leaving conversations satisfying.
11. You look forward to spending time with them and rarely think about avoiding arguments and fights.
12. You love them and are happy with how you're treated in the relationship, and the pros outweigh the cons.
13. Your partner cares about your feelings, acknowledges your efforts, and respects you as a person.
14. Your partner loves you for who you are and doesn't try to change you into the person they want you to be.
15. The romance in the relationship is alive and well, and you share meaningful moments regularly.
16. Your partner is supportive and encouraging, making you feel confident, and a relationship that makes you feel good about yourself is worth being in.
17. You can see a realistic bright future together, especially relationships that daily pray and seek God together. A praying relationship is a lasting relationship.
18. Your partner trusts you, leaving you feeling secure and confident about your loyalty, and they don't doubt you.
19 You or your partner have healthy boundaries and give each other personal space.
20. Your partner is independent and doesn't require constant care and attention, and they don't depend on you for their survival.
 
Here’s How You Know If You Love The Wrong Person:
 
1. Despite loving them with all your heart and doing things for them that no one else would, they don't reciprocate your feelings, making the relationship feel one-sided.
2. You feel like you can't be your true self around them because you're always pretending to be someone else, fearing they won't accept you for who you are.
3. Your partner is emotionally unavailable and chooses to be distant, leaving you feeling like your love isn't wanted or appreciated.
4. They show no interest in your life or your relationship and don't seem to care about your wants and needs.
5. They hear you when you talk, but they don't truly listen and have no interest in getting to know you on a deeper level.
6. Your partner doesn't make you feel good about yourself, and you're constantly unsure of who you are when you're with them.
7. You can't have a satisfying conversation with them because you don't connect mentally, and they often go off on tangents that you can't relate to.
8. You feel like you don't know anything about your partner, and they keep their life a mystery, shutting you out from their personal space.
9. They take you for granted, causing your self-respect to suffer, and walking away may be the best option if they refuse to change.
10. Your partner doesn't seem to understand you beyond your words, leaving conversations unsatisfying.
11. You dread spending time with them and constantly think about how to avoid arguments and fights.
12. You love them but aren't happy with how you're treated in the relationship, and the cons seem to outweigh the pros.
13. Your partner doesn't seem to care about your feelings, doesn't acknowledge your efforts, and doesn't respect you as a person.
14. Your partner is trying to change you into the person they want you to be, but you don't like the person you're becoming, and it's clear they don't love you for who you are.
15. The romance in the relationship has almost ceased to exist, and you can't remember the last time you shared a meaningful moment.
16. Your partner is too demanding, making you feel inadequate, and a relationship that makes you feel terrible about yourself isn't worth being in.
17. Even though you want the relationship to work, deep down, you know the future isn't bright.
18. Your partner doesn't trust you, leaving you feeling doubtful and insecure about your loyalty, and there's only so much you can do to gain their trust.
19. Sometimes a relationship fails because your partner is possessive and obsessive, leaving you with no personal space.
20. Your partner is too needy, requiring constant care and attention, and depending on you for their survival.
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Angry at God?

2/23/2023

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​HAVE YOU EVER FOUND YOURSELF ANGRY AT GOD? If so, you're not alone. I know I have. Over the past 14 months, I've been struggling with relentless sciatic nerve pain that at times feels unbearable. There have been many days that my lower lumbar, legs and hips feel like someone is continuously stabbing and tearing my muscles apart. I have laid on the floor of my home for hours in torment. I've cried out to God for help, only to feel like my prayers are falling on deaf ears. And when I'm in the midst of my pain, I've even found myself thinking that God must be enjoying watching me suffer.
 
Perhaps you can relate to these feelings. If you can relate, again I want you to know that you're not alone. Pain comes in many forms: physical, emotional and psychological. Going through pain and hardship is never easy for anyone to endure. It's understandable to feel frustrated or even angry with God in moments of deep distress.
 
God is the Almighty. He has the ability to do anything; He is Sovereign and all powerful. So when we cry out to God for help, and He doesn’t right away do what we request, feelings of frustration and anger can fluster and overcome us. “God, why is this HAPPENING TO ME?” … “GOD, WHERE ARE YOU?” … “GOD, HELP!”
 
It is our pain that distorts our perspective, and this narrow understanding affects our prayers and desperate pleas. We lack awareness of the other variables at play in the bigger picture of our lives, and so our appeals are skewed. We tend to believe that God should alleviate our suffering and take action immediately, but we fail to recognize that the pain we endure is beneficial for the advancement of our lives in the grand scheme of things.
 
It is important to remember that God is not the distant, cold-hearted figure that our minds sometimes conjure up when it seems like God isn't listening. God indeed is listening. Psalm 56:8 tells us God puts our “tears into [His] bottle…” The good news is that God can handle our anger and frustration; as the old saying goes: God is a big boy (respectfully) and He can handle all our messy emotions.
 
One great example in the Holy Bible of a man who endured immense suffering is the story of Job. I love this man so much. Job’s experience is both fascinating and complex to grapple the mind around. He lost everything, literally, everything and everyone who he held dear. Job cried out to God filled with pain and anger. Job's words were understandably honest and raw, and he didn't hesitate to express his frustration with God. He cried out to God as if he were pleading with a distant and cold-hearted father who turned his back on him. In his desperation he cried: “I cry unto thee, and thou dost not hear me: I stand up, and thou regardest me not. Thou art become cruel to me: with thy strong hand thou opposest thyself against me” (Job 30:20-21). 
 
Job's response to his suffering is admirable because, despite his anger, Job did something that's not always easy for us to do: he ran to God, not away from Him. He sought God, was honest with Him, and desired to hear His word. When we find ourselves angry with God, it can be tempting to shut Him out and turn inward. But like Job, we need to keep communicating with God even in our pain. We need to keep praying! It’s essential to acknowledge our feelings of anger and frustration and bring them to God in prayer. It’s okay to express our emotions to God, and we can ask God the tough questions; we can even demand answers, just as Job did.
 
However, it's important to recognize that anger with God can easily lead us to wrongdoing, such as bitterness and resentment. Anger with God is a dangerous state to be in because it can easily lead to destructive sins. Ephesians 4:26 says: “Be ye angry, and sin not…” So when we experience anger, we need to approach these feelings with honesty, openness, and trust; we need to confess it to God and allow Him to reveal our wrongs so that we can overcome and forsake erroneous thoughts. We must avoid allowing anger to consume us or push us away from God. Instead, when we feel anger toward God, we should ask ourselves some important questions: “Can I trust God enough to be honest with Him? Am I moving closer to Him or farther away from Him? And am I accusing God, or am I willing to listen to His voice, even when I don't like what I hear? Because just like He did for Job, God is inviting us to trust Him.
 
Ultimately, we need to continue to read and meditate upon His Word so to put our trust in God. Trusting God doesn't guarantee that we will always receive the answers we seek or that our pain and suffering will vanish immediately. However, it does mean that our faith believes and understands that God is good and has a purpose for the suffering in our lives. We can trust that God is using the suffering, along with all the other variables in our lives, for a greater good in the broader scheme of things. We can trust that He will never leave us, forsake us, or abandon us, and that He will work all things together for the good.
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