My mama used to say some people will hang with you as long as they can use you. And when there is no longer anything in it for them, they will drop you like a hot potato. This seems to be exactly what’s going on in today’s society. It is no longer just about networking or helping one another, it’s more about what you can do for me. If you pay close attention you really can’t tell the difference between humans and crabs in a barrel, each climbing to get to the top by any means necessary!

“Beloved, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits to see whether they are from God, for many false prophets have gone out into the world.” (John 4:1)

As Believers we know that the Bible strongly opposes using people for selfish gain, instead it points out the importance of love, respect, and mutual service. Scripture tells us to serve one another without expecting nothing in return. I’m reminded of Judas who allowed himself to be used by those who cared nothing for him. They simply used him to get to Jesus. He turned on Jesus for 30 pieces of silver. (Matthew 26:14-16) Unfortunately in these times there are those who will turn on you for less. They will exploit and manipulate others for their own gain. It is one of the signs that we are living in the last days. We see people using their power, position, and selfishness to take advantage of others kindness, vulnerability, and innocence. 

“But mark this: There will be terrible times in the last days. People will be lovers of themselves, lovers of money, boastful, proud, abusive, disobedient to their parents, ungrateful, unholy, without love, unforgiving, slanderous, without self-control, brutal, not lovers of the good, treacherous, rash, conceited, lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God, having a form of godliness but denying its power. Have nothing to do with such people.” (2 Timothy 3:1-5)

“For you were called to freedom, brothers. Only do not use your freedom as an opportunity for the flesh, but through love serve one another.” (Galatians 5:13)

If you are one of those people who believe it is ok to use people for your own gain, you should know that there are consequences for those actions. Also know that because of God’s grace it is never too late for us to rectify our behavior. In Luke 19:1-10 the Bible tells us about Zacchaeus who was a tax collector. He used his position to exploit others but after encountering Jesus, he not only repented, but he also made restoration!

“I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I now live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me.” (Galatians 2:20)

“For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, not a result of works, so that no one may boast. For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them.” (Ephesians 2:8–9)

I cannot stress enough about spiritual discernment. If you are the user or the one being used, it is important that you realize who the real enemy is! The serpent didn’t come to Eve in the garden threatening to bite her if she didn’t eat the forbidden fruit. Instead, he came with deception presenting himself as being concerned for her welfare. Satan’s greatest weapon is deceit. The good news is that if we have a relationship with the Lord, our sincere faith will compel us to do the right thing and resist the devil! No one likes to be used. We should treat others as we want to be treated. 

“For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places.” (Ephesians 6:12)

“Submit yourselves, then, to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.” (James 4:7)

“Teacher, which is the great commandment in the Law?” And he said to him, “You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind. This is the great and first commandment. And a second is like it: You shall love your neighbor as yourself. On these two commandments depend all the Law and the Prophets.”

It is right to have a heart that wants to assist and serve others. This pleases Yahweh. However the Bible also teaches us that we must be wise and have discernment. In these dark times the enemy is using people to take advantage of others. It is important that we ask the Lord to show us what He wants us to do and not rely on our feelings. The Holy Spirit will give us the wisdom and discernment to recognize who is genuine. Praying for wisdom and discernment is crucial in these times! Love and Blessings…

“If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all liberally and without reproach, and it will be given to him.” (James 1:5)

“Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect.” (Romans 12:2)

Believers recognize that our power lies in the authority given to us through Jesus Christ. This authority is not something we have earned but a gift that empowers us to conquer our fears and overcome adversaries. When we realize the significance of this authority over the enemy, we can approach life’s challenges with confidence and courage.

“I have given you authority to trample on snakes and scorpions and to overcome all the power of the enemy; nothing will harm you.” (Luke 10:19)

“Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes. For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms.” (Ephesians 6:10-12)

If we want to use our authority and see God’s power fully at work in our lives we should pray for a greater understanding of how the power of God works so that we can maximize and experience the fullness of God’s abundant life! If you put a new light bulb in a lamp but the lamp is not plugged into a socket it will not light up. It has to be connected to a source of power to work. We must stop depending on the resources that God blesses us with but solely depend on Him who is our Source. Only then can we begin to maximize and experience the fullness of God’s abundant life! This power is not something we fight to gain; it flows from within when the Holy Spirit dwells in us. 

“But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.” (Acts 1:8)

“You, dear children, are from God and have overcome them, because the one who is in you is greater than the one who is in the world.” (1 John 4:4)

“I can do all things through Him who strengthens me.” (Philippians 4:13)

We can plug into our  Source by studying the Word of God, praying, fasting, and worshiping. The truth is we can’t lose as long as we are walking with Jesus. Thanks to our God, we have the victory through Jesus Christ. When we walk with Jesus, His power lives within us. Scripture tells us that there is a name above all other names. That name is Jesus. He has the power! All we have to do is tap into it. When we stay plugged into the source we don’t have to wrestle for victory, because of Jesus we already have it. We do not have to strive to overcome, we can stand because Jesus already overcame! Let’s stop fighting for what has already been won and start tapping into our Source!  Love and Blessings…

“But thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.” (1 Corinthians 15:57)

“May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that by the power of the Holy Spirit you may abound in hope.” (Romans 15:13)

In this season of my life in order for me to remember most things it helps when I write them down. However long before this season, I wrote things down. The experts say that this is good because when we write things down they become real, something we can see and therefore turn into reality. However, I used to do it because I planned everything and I thought it helped me to stay in control. I would always write out my plan and when my plan did not work out, I always had a plan B. Most of the time plan A or B did not  work. It took me some time to realize I’m only in control when I surrender control to God, and if my plans are not aligned with God’s plans for my life, it’s not going to work. God’s plan does not need a plan B! And when we follow His plan neither do we!

“Many are the plans in a person’s heart, but it is the Lord’s purpose that prevails.” (Proverbs 19:21)

“The LORD of hosts has sworn: “As I have planned, so shall it be, and as I have proposed, so shall it stand, “(Isaiah 14:24)

“Submit to God, and you will have peace; then things will go well for you. Listen to his instructions, and store them in your heart.” (Job 22:21-22)

There is nothing wrong with planning, but unless our plans align with God’s plan, it’s possible we will need a plan B and sometimes a plan C and D. In fact, unless we totally submit to God and His will for our life, we could go through the whole alphabet and still not get it right! Our human wisdom and abilities are limited, and we cannot always be in control of things. But if we know God, we know He is unlimited and is always in control. There was a time when giving total control of my life to anyone, even God was scary. I’m sure I’m not the only one who has or still feels this way. But I assure you that when we surrender fully to the will of God and allow Him to give us direction and guidance, there is no fear and we will not need a plan B!

“I am the vine; you are the branches. Whoever abides in me and I in him, bears much fruit, for apart from me you can do nothing.” (John 15:5)

“Commit to the LORD whatever you do, and he will establish your plans.” (Proverbs 16:3)

“I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will counsel you with my loving eye on you.” (Psalm 32:8)

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

God’s plan for our lives are joy, peace, prosperity, hope, and a future with Him for eternity. Our plans are usually self-satisfying, temporary, and often separate us from God. We tend to get upset when things do not go as we planned. And even when we are following God’s plan, there will be some obstacles on our journey. We may find suffering, hurt, pain, and rejection. This is the enemy working to get us distracted. He wants us to give up because even he knows what God has for us is good. This is no time to get upset and start thinking of a plan B. This is the time for prayer, trust, and faith! God will guide us and bring us through. As a matter of fact, we will come out better and stronger if we endure. God’s plan for us is not only eternal, but full of hope even in the mist of life’s storms. God is always in control no matter what it looks like and He promised us that it will all work out for our good. God’s purpose will prevail, He doesn’t need a plan B!

“Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God.” (Philippians 4:6)

“There is no wisdom, no insight, no plan that can succeed against the LORD.” (Proverbs 21:30)

“Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths” (Proverbs 3:5-6)

“And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are called according to His purpose.” (Romans 8:28)

If you are contemplating whether to go with your plan or God’s plan, I urge you to go with God’s plan, it is always much better than anything we can think or imagine! It is not about carrying out our will on earth but fulfilling God’s will for our life on earth. Love and Blessings…

“Now to Him who is able to [carry out His purpose and] do superabundantly more than all that we dare ask or think [infinitely beyond our greatest prayers, hopes, or dreams], according to His power that is at work within us,” (Ephesians 3:20)

I hear people say that they match the energy that is given to them. I confess that there was a time when I was one of those people. I no longer match energy anymore unless it is good positive energy. Why? Because matching some energy will have you mirroring demons. All energy is not good energy. If a person’s energy is negative and it’s coming from a dark place, we have a choice, we can match their energy and go to that dark place with them or we can choose to match the energy of Jesus who is the light of the world. When we follow Jesus we will not walk in darkness. 

“In him was life, and that life was the light of all mankind. The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.” (John 1:4-5)

“When Jesus spoke again to the people, he said, “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.” (John 8:12)

You may think you are only matching energy when you are really matching evil spirits. And these demonic spirits will pull you out of character if you are not careful. This is how the enemy deceives us. Scripture tells us that we do not battle against flesh but against the powers of darkness in this world and in the spirit realms. The enemy will use family, friends or anyone who allows him to use them to get us out of the character of Christ. 

“For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms.” (Ephesians 6:12)

“Be sober and watch: because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, goes about seeking whom he may devour. Be sober and self-controlled. Be watchful. Your adversary, the devil, walks around like a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour.” (1 Peter 5:8)

Jesus walked this earth as a fleshly man so He wasn’t immune to the negative energy thrown His way. He lived in a chaotic, complex world just as we do. Jesus had emotions. He cried, loved, rejoiced, and on more than one occasion He felt anger. However, how Jesus chose to respond to His anger is the energy we should strive to match. He was slow to anger and had extraordinary patience. He took his time before taking action, and when He did, his approach was never malicious or unkind. His words were never cruel or hurtful. Even when He turned the tables of the thieving traders in a place of worship, it was not motivated by rage but by the energy and passion to right the wrongs He was seeing. (Matthew 21:12-13) Yes, Jesus got angry when others were treated unjustly, but he didn’t get angry on his own behalf. Even when he was mocked, insulted, and sentenced to death, he didn’t lash out. He forgave them. This is the type of energy we should strive to match! We must make sure that our energy aligns with God’s spirit and that we maintain pure energy.

“The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us.” (John 1:14)

“For we do not have a high priest who is unable to empathize with our weaknesses, but we have one who has been tempted in every way, just as we are.” (Hebrews 4:15)

“Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice.” (Ephesians 4:31)

“Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things. Those things, which ye have both learned, and received and heard, and seen in me, do: and the God of peace shall be with you.” (Philippians 4:8-9)

If a person’s energy is detrimental to our spiritual, physical, or mental being, of course we should remove ourselves or at least adjust our efforts. It doesn’t mean that they become our enemies and we can’t love and pray for them. Prayer changes things and God changes
people! Matching their darkness only takes us out of the light and into darkness. And there is always that possibility that if we choose to stay in the light, God will use us to pull them out. Remember light always overpowers darkness! Protect your peace, guard your spirit, and continue to let your light shine! Love and Blessings…

“But I tell you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you,” (Matthew 5:44)

“bless those who curse you, pray for those who mistreat you.” (Luke 6:28)

We are all familiar with the term two-faced. It is a person who pretends to be nice and friendly to you but at the same time saying unfriendly things about you to others behind your back. The dictionary describes a “two-faced” person as deceitful and dishonest. Back in the day the O’Jays had a hit song called “The Backstabbers”. The song said backstabbers smiled in your face while all the time they were trying to take your place. In other words two-faced people are hypocritical, deceitful, insincere, and dishonest. These people pretend to be for you but at the same time they are working against you. This sounds like the work of satan and his demonic spirits. We call them two-faced but the Bible calls them hypocrites!

“So you, too, outwardly appear righteous to men, but inwardly you are full of hypocrisy and lawlessness.” (Matthew 23:28)

“Do not take me away with the wicked, And with workers of iniquity, who speak peace to their neighbors, but evil is in their hearts.” (Psalm 28:3)

“A double-minded man is unstable in all his ways.” (James 1:8)

Two-faced people may fool some people sometimes, but they can never fool God. Jesus knew what Judas was going to do before he did it. Judas Iscariot was one of the twelve Apostles. He is known for betraying Jesus. He claimed to love Jesus, but he turned around and betrayed Him with a kiss. Judas was a two-faced backstabber for certain!  

“Then one of the Twelve—the one called Judas Iscariot—went to the chief priests and asked, “What are you willing to give me if I deliver him over to you?” So they counted out for him thirty pieces of silver. From then on Judas watched for an opportunity to hand him over.” (Matthew 26:14-16)

The worst thing Believers can do is be hypocritical (two-faced) towards God. This type of behavior is not acceptable to God and it makes us terrible disciples for the Lord. One of the major complaints of non-believers is that the church is full of hypocrites. They are not talking about the church building, they are talking about God’s people. And unfortunately this is true, especially in these times. The Lord expects the ones He has redeemed by the blood of His Son to set the example for the rest of the world. If the church is not in pursuit of holiness, the world sees no need to change. So judgment begins in the household of God, with His own children, as He teaches us to live like Yeshua. We are supposed to bring people to Christ, not run them away because of hypocrisy. Of course all Believers should not be judged on the basis of those who claim to be Believers, those who practice the opposite of what Yeshua taught and how He lived. Yeshua had a lot to say about two-faced people and hypocrites. The scribes and the Pharisees hated Him because he directly confronted the religious hypocrites of His day. Modern day hypocrites are no different, they conceal their true feelings or motives, and adopt certain religious rituals to impress the world. We are not here to be liked, we are here to be light in a dark world. If we profess belief and love for God but in our hearts and in our actions our agenda is still our own and not Gods will, scripture says we are hypocrites. God is never fooled because He sees right through to the two-faced heart!

“And he said unto them, Ye are they which justify yourselves before men; but God knoweth your hearts: for that which is highly esteemed among men is abomination in the sight of God.” (Luke 16:15)

And the Lord said: “Because this people draw near with their mouth
and honor me with their lips, while their hearts are far from me, and their fear of me is a commandment taught by men,” (Isaiah 29:13)

“Then Jesus said to the crowds and to his disciples: 2 “The teachers of the law and the Pharisees sit in Moses’ seat. 3 So you must be careful to do everything they tell you. But do not do what they do, for they do not practice what they preach.” (Matthew 23:1-3)

A hypocrite is not a person who commits sin occasionally, because we all have fallen short. However, hypocrites practice sin on a regular basis while pretending to be sinless and judging others at the same time. God does not get angry and turn His back on us when we fall short to sin as the enemy wants us to believe. God’s anger for our sins fell upon His son, Yeshua on the cross. He became the lamb of God, who died and rose for our sins. It is His gift to us, but we have to accept it, all of it! We don’t get to accept it and then hide it away in the closet while we accept and use the gifts of the world. That is hypocritical(two-faced)!

“If we say that we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us. If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. If we say that we have not sinned, we make him a liar, and his word is not in us.” (1 John 1:8-10)

“ for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God,” (Romans 3:23)

“Do not be unequally yoked with unbelievers. For what partnership can righteousness have with wickedness?” (2 Corinthians 6:14)

It is impossible to live for God and live for the world at the same time. Scripture tells us that it cannot be done. But don’t take my word, look at God’s Word. James 4:4 says, “You adulterous people, don’t you know that friendship with the world means enmity against God? Therefore, anyone who chooses to be a friend of the world becomes an enemy of God.” As God’s people, we are called to think and live differently, shaped by His truth rather than by worldly culture. We are either one hundred percent for Him or we are against Him. Jesus stated: “He that is not with Me is against Me” (Matthew 12:30). We simply cannot walk with God and hold hands with the devil!  

“If you were of the world, the world would love its own. Yet because you are not of the world, but I chose you out of the world, therefore the world hates you.” (John 15:19)

“No one can serve two masters, for either he will hate the one and love the other, or he will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve God and money.” (Matthew 6:24)

“But if serving the LORD seems undesirable to you, then choose for yourselves this day whom you will serve, whether the gods your ancestors served beyond the Euphrates, or the gods of the Amorites, in whose land you are living. But as for me and my household, we will serve the LORD.” (Joshua 24:15)

We don’t want hypocrites (two-faced people) in our lives, and we definitely don’t want to be one ourselves! We must ask God for discernment to see through hypocritical hearts and help us not be corrupted or tempted by satan to turn our face from God. We must pray that we don’t fall into the trap of saying one thing but thinking another in our hearts. Brothers and sisters, if you are straddling the fence, being two-faced with God, choose now to turn your face toward Him, when we keep our focus on Him, the things of this world grow dimmer in the light of His glory and grace. We cannot face both ways! As for me and my house, we will face the Lord! Love and Blessings…

Relationships work when individuals come in with no delusions. Some people believe that the other person in their relationship must fulfill their every need and make them complete. When I say relationships, I am not speaking of just a man and a woman. This pertains to any relationship; parents and children, siblings, friends, co-workers or neighbors. The truth is we can search high and low on this earth and we will not find another human being to give us what we need to be complete. This is why we see divorce on the rise, we see families falling apart, we see disorder and confusion in the homes, in our communities, and yes even in the body of Christ, the church. Most people find it difficult to accept a person for who they really are and be willing to help them become the best version of themselves. That takes compassion, patience, selflessness, humility, and kindness. It takes loving someone unconditionally. This is not easy if we don’t know who we are and Whose we are. In order to be successful in any relationship, we must return to the One who loved us first, the One who can complete us, and the One who loves us unconditionally. 

“being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 1:6)

“We love because he first loved us. Whoever claims to love God yet hates a brother or sister is a liar. For whoever does not love their brother and sister, whom they have seen, cannot love God whom they have not seen.” (1 John 4:19-20)

In my humble opinion we as humans use the word love too loosely when it comes to relationships. The word flows from our mouth but our actions do not follow. As a Believer and follower of Christ this should not be so. God created us to love, we are called to first love Him and then to love others as He loves us. This is not optional but a command that reflects our identity in Christ. Our ability to love others is a reflection of our relationship with God. If we truly know God, His love will naturally flow through us to others. It is a characteristic of those who sincerely follow Christ. 

“The most important one,” answered Jesus, “is this: ‘Hear, O Israel: The Lord our God, the Lord is one. Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength. The second is this: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself. There is no commandment greater than these.” (Mark 12:29-31)

“We love each other because he loved us first… If someone says, ‘I love God,’ but hates a Christian brother or sister, that person is a liar.” (1 John 4:19-20)

“Dear children, let us not love with words or speech but with actions and in truth.” (1 John 3:18)

Jesus Christ displayed the highest, most purest form of love on the cross when He who was sinless took our place for our sins. He literally died for us so that we would no longer be separated from God and can continue living through physical death and have eternal life with God. Jesus died for us because he loves us. God reveals His own love for us by sacrificing His only Son while we were still sinners.

“For Christ also suffered once for sins, the righteous for the unrighteous, that he might bring us to God, being put to death in the flesh but made alive in the spirit,” (1 Peter 3:18)

“But God shows his love for us in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us.” (Romans 5:8)

Can you imagine another human being loving you like this and you returning that same love? Don’t you agree that this world would be a better place? This kind of love does not come naturally to us because of our sinful fleshly being. However, it does come naturally to God and is an essential part of Him. By drawing closer to Him and experiencing His love, we can begin to understand what real love means. Only through Him can we show and experience true love. True love isn’t born just out of emotions, feelings, familiarity, or attraction but from a choice that we make. A choice that we make knowing that God is working in and through us to love like Him. It requires faithfulness, commitment, and sacrifice without expecting anything in return. The absence of such love shows a lack of a genuine relationship with God because He is love. 

“Be devoted to one another in love. Honor one another above yourselves.” (Romans 12:10)

“Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing.” (1 Thessalonians 5:11)

“Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice. Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.” (Ephesians 4:31-32)

“Do not judge, and you will not be judged. Do not condemn, and you will not be condemned. Forgive, and you will be forgiven.” (Luke 6:37)

“Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace.” (Ephesians 4:3)

The most important relationship we can have is with our Lord and Savior. He desires a relationship with us and He wants us to have healthy, loving relationships with others. He planted within each one of us the need to love and be loved. If we have a relationship with Him and we are spending quality time in His presence there is no way His love will not rub off on us toward others. When we surrender to Him, the Holy Spirit will teach  and guide us so that we can love like Him in spite of our flesh. Scripture defines what love is and how we should love; “Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trust, always hopes, always perseveres.” (1 Corinthians 13:4-7) This is how we are called to love. We can start by going back to our first love, the Lord God Almighty. Let us go back to His Word and apply it to our relationships. It will transform us and our relationships for the glory of God. Love and Blessings…

“Then the LORD God said, “It is not good that the man should be alone; I will make him a helper fit for him.” (Genesis 2:18)

“Iron sharpeneth iron; so a man sharpeneth the countenance of his friend.” (Proverbs 27:17)

“Therefore if you have any encouragement from being united with Christ, if any comfort from his love, if any common sharing in the Spirit, if any tenderness and compassion, then make my joy complete by being like-minded, having the same love, being one in spirit and of one mind.”  (Philippians 2:1-2)

My brother transitioned this past week and although I am missing him, I am thankful that he is no longer in pain and is finally at peace. His love for the Word of God, prayer, and his faith kept him steadfast most of his life. His journey was not easy, especially the last four years as he battled cancer. We talked mostly every day and he would always say “It is already alright!” He knew the battle was not his but the Lords. He also knew death was not the end for those in Christ but the beginning of everlasting life. His faith was unshakable!  

“We are hard pressed on every side, but not crushed; perplexed, but not in despair;” (2 Corinthians 4:8)

“Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be frightened, and do not be dismayed, for the LORD your God is with you wherever you go.” (Joshua 1:9)

“Yet he did not waver through unbelief regarding the promise of God, but was strengthened in his faith and gave glory to God, being fully persuaded that God had power to do what he had promised.” (Romans 4:20-2)1

The only way to remain unshakable is by building a strong foundation in Christ which leads to unwavering faith. As we live our life based on the Word of God, the teachings of Yeshua, our Jesus Christ and His love, our foundation becomes solid and our faith becomes unshakable. Faith is not about understanding it all or having all the answers. Faith is about believing in the One who does understand it all and Who does know all the answers. Our faith helps us persevere through struggles and remain hopeful in challenging situations. A strong foundation provides strength, stability, resilience, and a powerful faith against life’s challenges and trials.  

“Consequently, faith comes from hearing the message, and the message is heard through the word about Christ.” (Romans 10:17)

“Therefore, everyone who hears these words of mine and puts them into practice is like a wise man who built his house on the rock.” (Matthew 7:24)

“Great is our Lord, and abundant in power; his understanding is beyond measure.” (Psalm 147:5)

Jesus Christ frequently illustrated His teachings with parables. Jesus described two men who each built a house (Matthew 7:24-27). Jesus said one man was wise and the other was foolish. The man who made the better decision about where to build was a wise builder because he chose the rock as his foundation. I’m sure it was a challenge to build on rocky ground. It probably took some time, patience, and hard work. But the wise man believed it would be worth the effort. On the other hand, the foolish builder didn’t consider the foundation to be important. He may have thought it would take too long and building on the sandy soil would be easier. When a storm came, the house built into the rock survived the downpour, but the house on the sand was destroyed. Jesus stated, “And great was its fall.” Jesus was telling us that the foundation matters and that we have a choice to live wisely or foolishly. The strength of our faith depends on where we lay our foundation. A strong foundation ensures faith can withstand the challenges of life while a weak one can lead to doubt and destruction!

“I will show you what it’s like when someone comes to me, listens to my teaching, and then follows it. It is like a person building a house who digs deep and lays the foundation on solid rock. When the floodwaters rise and break against that house, it stands firm because it is well built. But anyone who hears and doesn’t obey is like a person who builds a house right on the ground, without a foundation. When the floods sweep down against that house, it will collapse into a heap of ruins.” (Luke 6:47-49) NLT

How do we become unshakable in a world that’s shaking and getting darker by the day? How do we attain peace in the mist of our suffering? We make sure our foundation is strong. Jesus does not promise us no suffering in this life, but He promises that He is with us in the mist of our trials and the storms of life. Through Him, the Holy Spirit who lives within us we can attain peace through the storm and still stand firm in faith and hope. The world may be sinking, but we won’t sink with it when we are standing on the solid foundation that Jesus offers for our lives, our loved ones, and our future.

“For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all. So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen, since what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal.” (2 Corinthians 4:17-18)

“Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the Lord your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you.” (Deuteronomy 31:6)

“The LORD is my rock, and my fortress, and my deliverer; my God, my strength, in whom I will trust; my buckler, and the horn of my salvation, and my high tower.” (Psalm 18:2)

It is important to build our spiritual foundation by having a relationship with Jesus. Jesus said that if we obey His Word and follow Him, we will be like the wise builder. His teachings are sound principles about how to live fruitfully. Hear them, read them, live them! This is how we maintain a strong foundation. Then we can endure the storms and the darkness of this world, not worrying about what the future holds, because we know Who holds the future! My prayer for you as well as for myself is that like my brother, we remain unshakable in the storms of life.  

Love and Blessings…

“In all this you greatly rejoice, though now for a little while you may have had to suffer grief in all kinds of trials. These have come so that the proven genuineness of your faith—of greater worth than gold, which perishes even though refined by fire—may result in praise, glory and honor when Jesus Christ is revealed.” (1 Peter 1:6-7)

In this season of my life writing important things down to help me remember is important, but long before it was a necessity I wrote things down. I would write what I wanted to happen, when I wanted it to happen, and how I wanted it to happen. Lol. I was a control freak. I never tried to control anyone else or their life, I just wanted to be in control of my own life. When I reflect back, I spent a lot of energy and time making sure I was on top of every and anything that might disrupt my plans for my life. That’s a hard job. No, that’s an impossible job! Once I surrendered my life to Christ and realized that it is He who is in control, my life became less stressful!

“Be still, and know that I am God. I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth!” (Psalm 46:10)

Children do not have control over their lives, their parents are there to nurture and guide them. Every important decision is made by the parents while they are underage. Once children reach adulthood and sometimes puberty, they want to be in control of their own lives. We as children of God do the same thing. Parents cannot force adult children to do what they know is best for them, and God will not force us to do anything. But as a good Father He will be there for us. The entire time I thought I was controlling my life, God was with me, I know because my plans did not always come together as I thought they would. But God!  

“I will never leave you nor forsake you” (Hebrews 13:5-6)

Should we make plans and set goals in life? Absolutely! But our goals and aspirations should be in alignment with the plan and purpose that God has for our life. It is not about what we want to do with our life. It is about what God wants to do in and through our life. We were created for a reason, and God has a specific plan for each one of us. We must learn how to plan and set goals that please Him and line up with His Word.  

“Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, before you were born I set you apart; I appointed you as a prophet to the nations.” (Jeremiah 1:5)

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

“And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose.” This verse speaks to God’s ability to work even difficult circumstances for a positive outcome. (Romans 8:28)

I know we want to think that we have control over our lives. But no matter how smart we are, how wealthy we are, or how powerful we are, God is still in control. Don’t get me wrong, we are not helpless, we do have power through our Lord Jesus and we do have choices. However, our plans must be in alignment with God’s will for them to work in our favor. He knew the plans He had for us before we were  born. I still plan but now I pray about it first. Trust me it is a lot less stressful when you know the One who is really in control has your back! Love and Blessings…

“In their hearts humans plan their course, but the Lord establishes their steps.”  (Proverbs 16:9)

“I make known the end from the beginning, from ancient times, what is still to come. I say, ‘My purpose will stand, and I will do all that I please.” (Isaiah 46:10)

Someone asked me “Why does it matter if I accept Jesus Christ and make Him my Lord and Savior if I’m still going to have the same problems? She said the devil doesn’t discriminate, in fact it seems he attacks those who try to do right even more.” Her statement was not a lie. Of course the devil attacks Believers more, why would he waste time on those already in his camp? His agenda is to claim and destroy as many of God’s children as he can. He knows he is running out of time so he is using whatever and whoever to carry out his plans. But God also has a plan. Jesus Christ was chosen to be our Savior. Just as Jesus resisted the devil’s temptations (Matthew 4:1-11) so can we. Jesus’s atonement made it possible for us to repent and be forgiven so we will not be separated from our Heavenly Father because of sin. Just as death could not hold Him, we do not have to fear physical death because not only did He save us from our sin, but because of His sacrifice we have eternal life!  

“The thief cometh not, but for to steal, and to kill, and to destroy: I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly. (John 10:10)

“This is love: not that we loved God, but that he loved us and sent his Son as an atoning sacrifice for our sins.” (1 John 4:10)

“In the same way, Christ did not take on himself the glory of becoming a high priest. But God said to him, “You are my Son;  today I have become your Father.” (Hebrews 5:5)

“but God raised him from the dead, freeing him from the agony of death, because it was impossible for death to keep its hold on him. (Acts 2:24)

Jesus did not say we wouldn’t have problems, in fact in John 16:33 He tells us in this world we would have trials and tribulations, but He also tells us that He has overcome the world. The Bible tells us that the cause of all misery, sickness, death, and every evil thing that happens is satan and sin. Because we live in a sinful world, we are not exempt from tragedy and pain. Satan is always looking to see who he can win over and destroy. However, Believers do not have to fall into his devious tricks. When we enter into a relationship with Jesus by faith, it is through Him that the Holy Spirit is given. The Holy Spirit then empowers us to resist the devil. The Holy Spirit gives is our power, purpose, and our hope. Jesus offers us peace and strength in times of trials. We can find hope in the midst of life’s challenges, knowing we are loved, protected, and cared for by God!

“In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world.” (John 16:33)

“And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another Helper,  to be with you forever, even the Spirit of truth, whom the world cannot receive, because it neither sees him nor knows him. You know him, for he dwells with you and will be in you.” (John 14:16-17)

“Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. Not as the world gives to you. Let not your hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid.” ( John 14:27)

As Believers we walk by faith, not by sight. When we are going through if we react the same as unbelievers, what are we saying? Are we just speakers of God’s Word or do we live our life in such a way that it represents what we speak? I am reminded of Paul and Silas in the Book of Acts. While they were jailed and chained, they never stopped praying, singing, and praising God. This is what the Bible tells us in Acts, “Around midnight Paul and Silas were praying and singing hymns to God, and the other prisoners were listening. Suddenly, there was a massive earthquake, and the prison was shaken to its foundations. All the doors immediately flew open, and the chains of every prisoner fell off! The jailer woke up to see the prison doors wide open. He assumed the prisoners had escaped, so he drew his sword to kill himself. But Paul shouted at him, “Stop! Don’t kill yourself! We are all here!” The jailer called for lights and ran to the dungeon and fell down trembling before Paul and Silas. Then he brought them out and asked, “Sir, what must I do to be saved?” They replied, “Believe in the Lord Jesus and you will be saved, along with everyone in your household.” And they shared the word of the Lord with him and with all who lived in his household. Even at that hour of the night, the jailer cared for them and washed their wounds. Then he and everyone in his household were immediately baptized. He brought them into his house and set a meal before them, and he and his entire household rejoiced because they all believed in God.” (Acts 16:25-32) God turned the situation into a blessing. Do you know that when we praise while going through, situations can change, and chains can be broken?  

“Let everything that has breath praise the LORD. Praise the LORD.” ( Psalm 150:6)

In this “it’s all about me” world, if you find someone you can depend on not just in the good times but the bad as well. Someone who will let you cry, vent, and not judge. Someone who will just sit with you even when you don’t feel like talking. Someone who will accept you just as you are but is willing to stick with you while you change for the better. Someone who will never leave or forsake you. Someone who loves you unconditionally, then you are blessed indeed. But there is no one on this earth who can do ALL of those things ALL of the time for ALL of us. Jesus is never too busy and is willing to be there at ALL times when we accept Him as our Lord and Savior. We serve a God that has no limitations, nothing is too hard for Him, and all things are possible. The enemy will try to discourage our walk with God. But take heart and know that God is in control. The process may be challenging but it’s never a path of defeat when you have a relationship with Jesus, only victory. And this is why it matters. Love and Blessings…

“For we walk by faith, not by sight.” (2 Corinthians 5:7)

“And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.” ( Romans 8:28)

“Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the LORD your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you.” (Deuteronomy 31:6)

“With men this is impossible; but with God all things are possible,” ( Matthew 19:26)