The Power of Surrender: Letting Jesus Lead Your Life

"Life is filled with twists and turns, challenges and uncertainties. Many times, we are not satisfied with how our lives are going. We feel stuck and are seeking guidance. We just don't know how to change the direction of our lives. “Surrender your life to Jesus, give him your life today,” the preacher said. I have heard that statement said so many times by preachers. It is a concept deeply rooted in Christian faith and spirituality. 

 

Surrendering to Jesus means allowing Him to guide your decisions, actions, and path instead of you doing whatever you choose to even if it is not in keeping with the word of God. This surrender is based on the belief that Jesus knows what is best for you and has a divine plan for your life. The idea is that by relinquishing control and allowing Jesus to guide one's path, individuals can find a deeper sense of peace, purpose, and fulfillment.

 

The Power of Surrender

 

Many of us carry the weight of the world on our shoulders, trying to control every aspect of our lives. But what if we let go? What if we let Jesus take the lead? Surrendering to Jesus is not about giving up; it's about gaining freedom, peace, and purpose. There was a time in my life when I felt lost and overwhelmed. I tried to control everything, but I was only getting more stressed and unhappy. Then I decided to surrender my life to Jesus, and it was the best decision I ever made. I found peace, joy, and a purpose greater than myself.

 

The Bible tells us in Proverbs 3:5-6, 'Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight. When we surrender to Jesus, we open ourselves up to His love, His guidance, and His plans for us. Surrendering to Jesus empowers us to live a life filled with compassion, purpose, and transformation. Are you at a crossroads in your life? Are you feeling overwhelmed and uncertain about the future? Let Jesus lead your life. Surrender to Him, and experience the power of His love, His peace, and His purpose for you.

 

 

Surrendering our lives to Jesus is a deeply personal and transformative experience. It involves a conscious decision to trust Him, follow His teachings, and allow Him to be the guiding force in our lives. Here are some steps and guidelines on how to surrender your life to Jesus:

 

Acknowledge Your Need for Jesus. Romans 3 verse 23 "For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God." Recognize that you are a sinner in need of a Savior. Understand that no one is perfect, and everyone falls short of God’s standards. Believe in Jesus as Your Savior John 3 verse 16 "For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life." Believe that Jesus is the Son of God who came to Earth, lived a perfect life, died on the cross for your sins, and rose again.

  

Repent of Your Sins Acts 2 verse 38 "Then Peter said unto them, Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost." Repentance involves a sincere and deep-seated change of heart and mind. Acknowledge your sins, feel genuine remorse for them, and turn away from them. Surrender Control of Your Life to Jesus: Proverbs 3 verses 5 to 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.” Invite Jesus into Your Life:  Revelation 3 verse 20 "Here I am! I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in and eat with that person, and they with me."

 

Invite Jesus into your heart and life. This can be done through a simple, heartfelt prayer where you express your desire to follow Him. Let us Pray "Lord Jesus, I acknowledge that I am a sinner in need of Your grace and forgiveness. I believe that You died on the cross for my sins and rose again. I surrender control of my life to You. Please come into my heart, be my Savior and Lord, and guide me from this moment forward. In Your precious name, Amen." Find a church that baptizes in the name of Jesus and be baptized.

 

Develop a Personal Relationship with Jesus:  James 4 verse 8 "Come near to God and he will come near to you." Read the Bible to understand God’s Word and Jesus’ teachings. Pray regularly to communicate with God and deepen your relationship with Him. Engage with a community of believers for support, encouragement, and growth in your faith.

 

Here are some key principles and ideas related to the power of surrender and letting Jesus lead your life:

 

Acknowledge Your Need for Jesus

 

Recognize that you are a sinner in need of God's forgiveness and grace. Understand that Jesus is the only way to true salvation and eternal life (John 14:6).

 

Repentance and Confession

 

Repentance involves acknowledging your sins, confessing them to God, and turning away from them. Confess your sins honestly and sincerely, asking for God's forgiveness and cleansing through the sacrifice of Jesus on the cross (1 John 1:9).

 

Believe in Jesus

 

Place your faith and trust in Jesus as your Lord and Savior. Believe that He died for your sins, was buried, and rose again, conquering sin and death, and is offering you the gift of eternal life (John 3:16).

 

Surrender Control

 

Let go of your own desires, plans, and need for control. Acknowledge that Jesus knows what is best for you and trust Him to lead your life in the right direction (Proverbs 3:5-6).

 

Commitment in Prayer

 

Prayer is a vital aspect of surrendering your life to Jesus. Spend time in prayer, expressing your surrender, commitment, and desire to follow Him. Openly share your thoughts, feelings, and concerns with Him, and listen for His guidance and direction through the Holy Spirit (Philippians 4:6-7).

 

Study the Bible

 

Read and study the Bible regularly to learn more about who Jesus is, His teachings, and His will for your life. The Bible is God's word and is essential for growing in your relationship with Jesus and understanding His plan and purpose for you (2 Timothy 3:16-17).

  

Seek Fellowship with Other Believers

 

Connect with a community of believers who can support, encourage, and guide you in your faith journey. Fellowship with other Christians through attending church, joining a small group, or participating in Bible studies can be a source of spiritual growth and encouragement (Hebrews 10:24-25).

 

Live a Life of Obedience and Service

 

Strive to live a life that reflects the teachings and example of Jesus. This involves loving God with all your heart, soul, and mind, loving your neighbor as yourself, and obeying Jesus' commandments (Matthew 22:37-40; John 14:15).

 

Trust God's Plan and Providence

 

Even when facing challenges, uncertainties, or difficult circumstances, continue to trust in God's plan and providence. Remember that He is sovereign, and He is working all things together for your good and His glory (Romans 8:28).

 

Surrender Daily

 

Surrendering your life to Jesus is a daily practice and commitment. Continually submit your will to His, seek His guidance and direction, and strive to live each day in a way that honors and glorifies Him. In conclusion, surrendering your life to Jesus is a journey of faith, trust, and obedience that involves a personal relationship with Him. It is a transformative experience that leads to forgiveness, redemption, peace, purpose, and eternal life through faith in Jesus Christ.

"If you love me, keep my commands." Strive to live a life that honors and pleases God. Obey His commandments, follow Jesus’ teachings, and walk in faith, trusting Him in all circumstances. Surrendering your life to Jesus is a lifelong journey of faith, growth, and transformation. It’s about allowing Him to be the center of your life, trusting His plan, and experiencing the abundant life He promises to those who follow Him. If you’ve made the decision to surrender your life to Jesus, we encourage you to find a local church or community of believers where you can grow in your faith, receive guidance, and support, and serve others in the love of Christ.

  

But have you ever considered the power of surrender? Surrendering your life to Jesus can transform your journey in ways you never imagined." Jesus is calling you; He is asking you to surrender your life to Him today. He says in Matthew 11 verses 28 to 30 “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.

 

Surrender is not about passivity or resignation, but rather an active choice to trust and follow Jesus. It's about letting go of the need to control every aspect of life and instead, trusting that Jesus will lead the way to what is best. This can be incredibly freeing, as it allows individuals to release the burdens of worry and stress, knowing that they are in capable hands.

Kindness to Others not Heartlessness

In today's busy and uncertain world, the difference between caring about others and not caring at all is really clear. Some people go out of their way to help others, showing kindness and understanding. On the other hand, some just don't seem to care about anyone else. They ignore the problems and suffering of others, acting like it doesn't matter.

 

We need to think about this difference. With all the chaos and confusion around us, we need to take a good look at how we treat others and what it means for our world. People sometimes find themselves in circumstances not of their choosing. We need to bear in mind that regardless of how well we are doing, there could be a time when we find ourselves in similar circumstances.

 

It is not only necessary for us to offer support physically or financially if we can, but also spiritually. Romans 8:34, “Who then is the one who condemns? No one. Christ Jesus who died - more than that, who was raised to life - is at the right hand of God and is also interceding for us.” Christ is interceding for all of us and has set the example for us to intercede for others also. Romans 8:27 also tells us that the Spirit intercedes for God’s people in accordance with the will of God. It is easy to look the other way but we can be the “Good Samaritan” who lends a helping hand. The story is told in Luke 10:29 – 37.

 

 

Being Kind and Helpful to Others

 

Jesus Christ has set the example for us regarding intercession. It is about caring deeply for people who are struggling. It's more than just feeling sorry for them - it's wanting to make things better and being there for them when they need it most. Whether it's praying for them, speaking up for them, or doing something to help, intercessors show compassion and give hope to those going through tough times. The Bible commands us to pray for one another, “Therefore, confess your sins to one another and pray for one another, that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous person has great power as it is working” (James 5:16, ESV).

 

In today's world, there are a lot of people who need help. They might be dealing with big problems like not having enough food or facing unfair treatment. That's why it's so important for all of us to step up and help out. In Galatians 6:2 the Apostle Paul tells us to, “Bear ye one another’s burden, and so fulfill the law of Christ.” Many persons individually or through organizations offer help to those in need. By lending our voices, resources, and support to those who are struggling, we show that we care about them and want to make things right. Together, we can make the world a better and fairer place for everyone.

 

 

When People Ignore Others' Pain

 

There is a big issue in our society with people not caring about each other. There are even people who get upset when help is offered to those in need. It shows up in lots of ways, like when someone sees another person suffering but chooses to ignore it. When people lobby for the poor or people who are experiencing difficulties to go unassisted it shows the callousness and hardheartedness of society. It's also seen when leaders care more about making money than helping people, and in systems that treat some people unfairly.

 

This lack of care - called heartlessness - causes a lot of problems. It makes communities feel divided and causes arguments. It keeps people who are already struggling stuck in tough situations. Worst of all, it makes us forget how important it is to treat everyone with kindness and respect. We should pray earnestly for them and ask the Holy Spirit to intervene in their situation. Many persons have been saved from dangerous circumstances as a result of spiritual intervention involving prayer and intercession. Let us also pray for those who are uncaring towards others who are in need.

 

Being Kind Instead of Ignoring Problems

 

When we see a lot of people not caring about others, it's clear that we need to do something about it. We can't just sit back and watch when unfair things happen. Instead, we need to be kind and understanding and stand up for those who are treated unfairly. 

 

Helping others isn't just a nice thing to do.  It is really important. It means recognizing that we might have more advantages than others and using those advantages to make things fairer for everyone. It's about speaking up for people who aren't being heard, sharing their stories, and working to change things for the better. 

 

We don't have to do big, heroic things to make a difference. Even small acts of kindness, like listening to someone who needs to talk or giving a helping hand, can have a big impact. It's about being there for each other and showing that we care.

 

 

Make Your Corner of the World a Better Place

 

In a world where there's a lot of fighting and disagreements, the choice to help others or ignore them is important. This is an important part of who we are as a people and what values we hold dear because it shows whether we care about other people or not. It's about choosing to be understanding and caring, instead of being cold and uncaring. Let us do what Ephesians 4:32 tells us and be kind to each other.

 

As we deal with the problems we face today, let us remember to help out those who need it. Let's stand up for people who are treated unfairly, and work to make things better for everyone. By doing this, we show that we respect and care about every person, no matter who they are or where they come from.

Trust and Obey: A Challenge for Modern Christians.

One of the most well-known hymns in the Christian tradition is "Trust and Obey", written by John H. Sammis in 1887. The chorus of the hymn goes like this:

“Trust and obey, for there's no other way, to be happy in Jesus, but to trust and obey.”

The message of the hymn is simple and clear: if you want to experience joy and peace in your relationship with Jesus, you need to trust Him and obey His commands. But what does it mean to trust and obey Jesus in our contemporary context? How do you trust and obey when the word of Jesus is contrary to your personal beliefs, preferences, or values?

This is not a new question, but it is a relevant one for Christians today. We live in a pluralistic and diverse society, where we encounter different opinions, perspectives, and worldviews daily. We are the product of where we are born, our family, our education, our experience, and our DNA. These make each of us uniquely different. 

You and I are influenced by the culture around us, which often promotes values that are at odds with the teachings of Jesus. For example, our culture may value individualism, materialism, or relativism, while Jesus calls for the rich to bear the infirmities of the poor, to love God and our neighbor, to share, to seek His kingdom first, and to follow his truth. If you carefully examine the teachings of Jesus some would say He is teaching socialism which is opposite to capitalism and individualism which is the prevailing culture presently.

How do you respond to this tension? How do you trust and obey Jesus when His word challenges you to go against the grain of your culture or your beliefs and desires?

In our culture, there are three strikes, and you are out, you hear all the major preachers stating that we must let go of negative people. Yet Jesus says in Matthew 5:43-45

 “Ye have heard that it hath been said, ‘Thou shalt love thy neighbor and hate thine enemy.’  But I say unto you, love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them that despitefully use you and persecute you, that ye may be the children of your Father who is in Heaven. For He maketh His sun to rise on the evil and on the good, and sendeth rain on the just and on the unjust.”

How do you reconcile these teachings with your feelings?

Trusting and obeying the word of Jesus many times makes you feel and look foolish to those around you, and to do it requires internal fortitude and faith in Him.

We know we are saved when we believe the preaching or teaching of the gospel that God created the heaven and the earth and made the first man and woman named Adam and Eve, but they disobeyed Him and ate the forbidden fruit, so man was now under the curse of sin. God robed Himself in a body of flesh and we saw Him as the Lord Jesus who came to redeem us from the curse of sin by dying on the cross. Those of us who believe His teaching and are baptized must commit ourselves to following His teaching which will transform our lives to be like Him.

I remember a preacher saying, “If you’ve tried everything and everything failed try Jesus. He will never fail. Give your life to Jesus. Become one of the sons of God and as the King’s son He will make everything okay for you”.  

This captivated my mind and I now believe that serving the Lord will help me to have a better quality of life here on earth and inherit eternal life. I do believe we all want to have a nice home, family, and enough money to live comfortably. We want to feel worthwhile but many times when we have gained all of those, we want other things. We still feel unfulfilled.

Please take a moment to remember the goals and dreams that you had growing up and the goals that you currently have.

As we strive to achieve these things in the journey of life, many challenges arise that have stalled or derailed our dreams or goals leading us to despondency. These challenges may have been the loss of a job, sickness, an accident, a broken relationship, going through a natural disaster or pandemic, financial struggles, the death of a loved one, your children’s problems, quarrels among siblings, and many other issues. Challenges could also have stemmed from your own personal struggles such as temptations, adultery, fornication, and other trials that you are faced with while trying to live a holy and pleasing life guided by the teachings of Christ. This created turmoil in our minds causing many of us to give up, because we felt like hypocrites, so we backslid to our old lifestyles.

This struggle is depicted in the parable of the Sower:

The parable of the Sower is a true reflection of the struggles we all face, Matthew 13: 18-23.    

18 Hear ye, therefore, the parable of the Sower.

19 When anyone heareth the word of the kingdom, and understandeth it not, then cometh the wicked one, and catcheth away that which was sown in his heart. This is he which received seed by the wayside.

20 But he that received the seed into stony places, the same is he that heareth the word, and anon with joy receiveth it;

21 Yet hath he, not root in himself, but dureth for a while: for when tribulation or persecution ariseth because of the word, by and by he is offended.

22 He also that received seed among the thorns is he that heareth the word; and the care of this world, and the deceitfulness of riches, choke the word, and he becometh unfruitful.

23 But he that received seed into the good ground is he that heareth the word, and understandeth it; which also beareth fruit, and bringeth forth, some a hundredfold,

 

To trust and obey requires believing certain teachings and principles as truth. First, we are taught the words of the scriptures, and then we must apply them to our daily lives to prove that they are true and to reap the benefits. Just like how we learn to read and write or learn math we must apply what we learn in our daily lives.

Some of the Benefits of Salvation

The Bible teaches that when we are saved, we become the sons of God, and joint-heirs (1 John 3 vs 2 Beloved, now are we the sons of God) and (Romans 8: 16-17 The Spirit Himself bears witness with our spirit that we are children of God, and if children, then heirs—heirs of God and joint heirs with Christ,)

This means we are now by inheritance the owners of the entire universe. (2 Timothy 2:12 If we endure, we shall also reign with Him.)

It teaches that we shall have eternal life, this means that we shall live forever.

(1 John 5:13 I write these things to you who believe in the name of the Son of God so that you may know that you have eternal life.)

We are His bride (Rev 19: 7 Let us be glad and rejoice and give honor to him: for the marriage of the Lamb is come, and his wife hath made herself ready.)

We are His Body (1 Corinthians 12:27 Now ye are the body of Christ, and members in particular.)

We shall Judge Angels and the world (1 Corinthians 6: 2 Do ye not know that the saints shall judge the world? and if the world shall be judged by you, are ye unworthy to judge the smallest matters? Know ye not that we shall judge angels?)

We shall walk on streets of Gold (Rev 21:21 And the twelve gates were twelve pearls; every several gates was of one pearl: and the street of the city was pure gold, as it were transparent glass.)

The questions for you to answer are ... How is your heart? & What type of soil are you?

As the parable states, when we hear the word of God, believe, understand it, and then begin to apply it in our lives, it begins to change how we think and act. This results in us having a different lifestyle. It becomes the motivation for us to trust and obey the words of Jesus Christ. For the change to become permanent it requires consistency - daily prayer, daily reading of the bible until it becomes a part of our everyday routine. What will happen is that when a trial arises, the Holy Ghost will bring back His word to our memories to guide our response to the trial.

Gradually we will recognize that is not of our own works, but it is just the mercy of Jesus Christ that has been keeping us. As we apply what we learn in our lives, we will begin to change, our characters begin to change, and we become more patient, more forgiving, and less judgmental. We begin to bear the fruits of the spirit. (Galatians 5:22-23 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness, temperance: against such there is no law.)

This means that as we change and develop the likeness of Christ, we begin to impact those around us, and we become positive influences in our homes, with our families, friends at work, and in our communities. Some of us will impact hundreds of people, some sixty, some thirty, and others one. When we trust and obey, over time it brings forth joy in the Lord and a truly purposeful life.

Our main goals change from attaining things to attaining eternal life. Our love grows from self-interest to love for God and all men. We move from a local focus to a universal focus we begin to see all men as our brothers because we recognize that we all have one Father the Lord Jesus Christ.   

Remember ...

- Jesus is Lord. He is not just a teacher, a prophet, or a friend. He is the God, the King of kings, and the Lord of lords. He has the right to rule over our lives and to demand our allegiance. He is also the Savior, who died for our sins and rose again to give us eternal life. He loves us more than anyone else and wants what is best for us. Trusting and obeying Him is not only our duty but also our privilege and joy.

- Study His word. The primary way that Jesus reveals His will to us is through his word, the Bible. The Bible is not just a collection of stories, rules, or advice. It is the inspired and authoritative word of God, which shows us who God is, what He has done, and what He expects from us. The Bible is also relevant and applicable to our lives today, as it addresses every aspect of our existence: our beliefs, our values, our relationships, our choices, our emotions, etc. To trust and obey Jesus, we need to study His word regularly, carefully, and prayerfully.

- Seek His guidance. Sometimes we may face situations where we are not sure what to do or how to act. In those cases, we need to seek His guidance through prayer, through the counsel of other Christians, and through the guidance of the Holy Spirit. Prayer is not just a way of asking God for things, but also a way of listening to Him and aligning ourselves with His will. The counsel of other Christians can help us gain insight, wisdom, and accountability from those who share our faith and values. The Holy Spirit is the one who convicts us of sin, teaches us the truth, and empowers us to obey.

- Obey His commands. Trusting Jesus is not enough; we also need to obey Him. Obedience is not optional or conditional; it is essential and expected. Jesus said: "If you love me, you will keep My commandments" (John 14:15). Obedience is also not burdensome or oppressive; it is liberating and rewarding. Jesus said: "Come to me, all who labor and are heavily laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me; for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light" (Matthew 11:28-30).

Trust and obey for there is no other way to be happy in Jesus than to trust and obey. This may sound simple, but it is not easy. It requires faith, humility, and courage, but it also leads to joy, peace, and fulfillment. Let us trust and obey Jesus today and every day.

How do we Overcome the Devil?: Harnessing the Power of Prayer for Spiritual Warfare

ROAR! ROOOOAR! The devil is ROARING. As Christians, we believe in God, and we also believe that there is a devil. The devil is a real and powerful enemy who seeks to destroy our lives and our relationship with God. He is not a myth or a symbol, but a fallen angel who rebelled against God and was cast out of heaven. He is the leader of a host of evil spirits who work with him to tempt, deceive, accuse, and oppress us in an effort for us to lose our faith and not be a part of the church resulting in us being cast in Hell. 1 Peter 5:8 “Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour:”

Christians often attribute their situations to the attack of the devil, they believe that individuals are filled with demons and are being used by these evil spirits to try and harm them. Ephesians 6: 12 “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”. The fight is not against a particular person, although the attack may be done through that individual. Our adversary is the devil. It is a fact that some individuals have that mindset and practice Witchcraft, Vodou, Obeah, Santeria, Spiritism, and Sorcery. These are terms that refer to different forms of **magic** and **spiritual practices** that involve the use, of natural or supernatural forces to influence events, people, or nature. These terms have different meanings and origins depending on the cultural and historical context.

 

Witchcraft is a broad term that can describe various beliefs and practices that involve the manipulation of magic, often for benevolent or malevolent purposes. Witchcraft can be found in many cultures around the world, such as Europe, Africa, Asia, and North America. Witchcraft can be associated with religion, folklore, mythology, or occultism. Some examples of witchcraft are Wicca, Paganism, Shamanism, and Hoodoo. The number of people who practice witchcraft in the US is said to have increased in the last three decades.

 

Vodou or Voodoo is said to have originated in West Africa and is practiced in parts of the Caribbean (especially Haiti) and the southern US, combining elements of Roman Catholic ritual with traditional African magical and religious rites, and characterized by sorcery and spirit possession. It is said to be rooted in ancestral remembrance, nature, healing, and justice. It is called by different names in other countries.

 

Obeah is a specific term that refers to a series of **African diasporic** spellcasting and healing traditions found in the former British colonies of the Caribbean. Obeah derives much from traditional West African practices that have undergone cultural creolization. Obeah can be used for good or evil, depending on the intention of the practitioner and the client. Obeah often involves the use of herbal and animal ingredients, charms, fetishes, and rituals. Obeah can also incorporate elements of Christianity, as well as other Caribbean religions like Voodoo and Santeria. 

 

Santeria is Spanish for, “The Way of the Saints”.  The most common name given to a religious tradition of West African origin that was developed in Cuba and then spread throughout Latin America and the United States. According to the Encyclopaedia Brittanica, Santería is based upon the development of personal relationships through divination, sacrifice, initiation, and mediumship between practitioners of the religion and the orisha deities, who provide their devotees with protection, wisdom, and success and who guide devotees in times of crisis.   Spiritism is also incorporated.

 

Sorcery is another general term that can mean the use of magic or supernatural powers to harm others or gain an advantage. Sorcery can also be found in many cultures and traditions, such as ancient Mesopotamia, medieval Europe, Native America, and Polynesia. Sorcery can involve spells, curses, hexes, potions, talismans, or incantations. Sorcery is usually considered a negative or evil form of magic and is often opposed by religious or moral authorities.

 

Are we helpless against the devil and his demons’ devices? NO, we are not! God has given us weapons and strategies to overcome the devil and his schemes. One of the most effective and essential weapons is prayer. Prayer is not just a way of communicating with God, but a way of engaging in spiritual warfare. Through prayer, we can resist the devil, claim God's promises, receive God's protection, release God's power, and gain victory.

 

In this blog post, we will explore how to fight the good fight of faith with the armor of God and harness the power of God through prayer, to win in this spiritual warfare. We will overcome the devil in three areas: our minds, our hearts, and our actions.

 

Our Minds

 

2 Timothy 1:7 “For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind.”

 

The devil often attacks our minds with lies, doubts, fears, and accusations. He wants to fill our thoughts with negativity, confusion, and condemnation. He wants to make us doubt God's love, goodness, and faithfulness. He wants to make us feel guilty, ashamed, and unworthy.

 

To overcome the devil in our minds, we must put on the helmet of salvation. The helmet covers over head which represents our mind. This means that we must believe and know that we are saved regardless of what we are experiencing.  We also need to pray with the word of God. The word of God is the sword of the Spirit, which can cut through the lies of the enemy and expose his deception. The word of God is also the truth that sets us free from bondage and fear. The word of God is the light that dispels the darkness and reveals God's character and will. This should be our mindset.

   

We need to speak the word of God whenever we pray by:

 

- Memorizing and meditating on Scripture verses that counteract the enemy's lies and affirm God's truth.

- Declaring and confessing God's word over our lives and situations.

- Asking God to renew our minds and transform our thinking according to his word.

- Thanking God for his word and his promises.

 

Our Hearts

 

The devil also attacks our hearts with bitterness, anger, unforgiveness, and resentment. He wants to fill our emotions with hatred, hostility, and hurt. He wants to make us hold grudges, seek revenge, and harbor malice. He wants to make us bitter against God, ourselves, and others.

 

To overcome the devil in our hearts, we must put on the breastplate of righteousness. The breastplate covers our vital organs such as our hearts (Proverbs 4:23 In-Context 23 Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it. 24. Keep your mouth free of perversity; keep corrupt talk far from your lips. 25. Let your eyes look straight ahead; fix your gaze directly before you.) and lungs. To guard our hearts, we need to pray to have the love of God. The love of God is the bond of perfection, which can heal our wounds and restore our relationships. The love of God is also the power that drives out fear and casts out evil. The love of God is the fruit of the Spirit that produces joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control.

 

We need to pray with the love of God by:

 

- Forgiving those who have hurt us and asking for forgiveness from those we have hurt.

- Blessing those who curse us and praying for those who persecute us.

- Asking God to fill our hearts with his love and compassion.

- Thanking God for his love and his grace.

 

Our Actions

 

The devil also attacks our actions with temptation, sin, and compromise. He wants to fill our behavior with disobedience, rebellion, and lawlessness. He wants to make us yield to our fleshly desires, worldly values, and demonic influences. He wants to make us stray from God's path, disobey his commands, and dishonor his name.

 

To overcome the devil in our actions, we need to pray with the power of God. The power of God is the authority that Jesus has given us over all the powers of the enemy. The power of God is also the strength that the Holy Spirit provides us to overcome sin and do good works. The power of God is the victory that Jesus won for us on the cross and through his resurrection.

 

We need to pray with the power of God by:

 

- Resisting the devil and submitting to God.

- Repenting of our sins and turning away from them.

- Asking God to fill us with his Spirit and enable us to walk in his ways.

- Thanking God for his power and his presence.

 

Conclusion

 

The devil is a defeated foe who has no authority over us as children of God, but he is still a dangerous enemy who seeks to steal, kill, and destroy us. We need to be alert and vigilant against his schemes and tactics. Our mindset must be for victory. We need to put on the whole armor of God and stand firm in faith. Finally, we need to harness the power of the word, prayer, and spiritual warfare to overcome him in every area of our lives.

 

Remember - Greater is He who is in you than he who is in the world (1 John 4:4).

 

How to Pray for Others and Avoid Gossiping

We all know the importance of prayer, especially for those who are going through difficult times. We need to pray for each other, but we may not realize that our prayers or prayer requests can turn into gossip if we are not careful about how we share the information and what our motives are. Sometimes people ask others to pray for someone else because they want to let everyone know that the person is having a difficulty. They do this under the guise of making a prayer request. They may want to show that they have information about the situation. Gossip is not only harmful to the person we are talking about but also to our church community, to ourselves, and to our relationship with God.

 

Gossip is defined as "idle talk or rumor, especially about the personal or private affairs of others". It can also be "a person who habitually reveals personal or sensational facts about others". 

Gossip can take many forms, such as:

 

- Sharing details that are not necessary or relevant for prayer

- Sharing details that are confidential or sensitive

- Sharing details that are negative or judgmental

- Sharing details that are exaggerated or distorted

- Sharing details that are motivated by pride, envy, anger, or malice

 

Gossip can hurt the person we are talking about, by:

 

- Damaging their reputation or character

- Exposing their weaknesses or faults

- Invading their privacy or dignity

- Causing them embarrassment or shame

- Spreading false or misleading information

 

Gossip can also hurt ourselves and our relationship with God, by:

 

- Wasting our time and energy on trivial matters

- Distracting us from our own issues and responsibilities

- Corrupting our hearts and minds with negativity and sin

- Breaking trust and unity with others

- Disobeying God's commandments and displeasing Him

 

So how can we pray for others without gossiping? Here are some tips to help us:

 

- Check our motives. Before we share anything, we should ask ourselves: Why do I want to share this? Is it to help the person in need, or to satisfy my curiosity, show off my knowledge, or vent my feelings? Is it to glorify God, or to gratify myself?

- Respect confidentiality. If someone has confided in us, we should respect their trust and privacy. We should not reveal anything that they have not given us permission to share. We should also avoid asking for more details than what they are willing to share.

- Be selective. We should not share everything with everyone. We should choose wisely who we share with, and how much we share. We should only share with those who are mature, trustworthy, and compassionate. We should also limit the number of people we share with, to avoid spreading the information too widely.

- Be positive. We should focus on the positive aspects of the person and the situation, rather than the negative ones. We should emphasize their strengths and virtues, rather than their weaknesses and faults. We should also express hope and faith in God's power and grace, rather than doubt and despair.

- Be accurate. We should be careful not to exaggerate or distort the facts. We should stick to what we know for sure and avoid speculating or assuming. We should also correct any misinformation or misunderstanding that we may encounter.

- Be respectful. We should treat the person and the situation with respect and dignity. We should not mock, ridicule, or criticize them. We should also avoid using harsh or hurtful words, such as "stupid", "crazy", or "sinful".

- Be loving. We should pray for others with love and compassion. We should empathize with their feelings and needs, rather than judge them or condemn them. We should also pray for their good and their salvation, rather than their harm or their punishment.

 

The Bible warns us about the dangers of gossip and urges us to control our tongues and purify our hearts. James 3:5-6 says: "Likewise, the tongue is a small part of the body, but it makes great boasts. Consider how a great forest is set on fire by a small spark. The tongue also is a fire, a world of evil among the parts of the body. It corrupts the whole body, sets the whole course of one’s life on fire, and is itself set on fire by hell."

 Follow the Example Set by Jesus

The Bible also gives us examples of how to pray for others without gossiping. Job is an excellent example of how callous we can be as Christians when others are in pain and suffering. His friends accused him of being sinful and wicked, instead of comforting him and supporting him. Job 16:2 says: "I have heard many things like these; you are miserable comforters, all of you."

 

On the other hand, Jesus is the perfect example of how loving and compassionate we can be as Christians when others are in need. He prayed for his enemies, his disciples, and his followers. He also taught us how to pray for others in Matthew 6:9-13: "This, then, is how you should pray:

 

Our Father in Heaven,

hallowed be your name,

your kingdom come,

your will be done,

on earth as it is in heaven.

Give us today our daily bread.

And forgive us our debts,

as we also have forgiven our debtors.

And lead us not into temptation,

but deliver us from the evil one.

 For the kingdom, the power, 

and the glory are yours

 now and forever. 

Amen."

Let us follow the example of Jesus and pray for others without gossiping. Let us remember that what we do not want for ourselves, we should not do to others. Let us also remember that God is watching and listening to everything we say and do. Proverbs 15:3 says: "The eyes of the Lord are everywhere, keeping watch on the wicked and the good."

 

May God help us to control our tongues and purge our hearts. May He help us to show love and kindness to everyone.  May He bless us as we pray for others in His name. Amen.

Don't go Naked! Dress for Success as a Christian Warrior

It appears you are under attack from the devil, everything is just going wrong. Oh my God! You feel like the whole world is against you and you just cannot get a break.

How do you overcome this feeling? How do you change your reaction and gradually rebound?

There is no other way than to begin again, to trust in the word of God regardless of how you feel. Your reaction must be to focus on God's power and not on your own strength. “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)

Know Your Enemy

The fight is real but to have the victory we must know who we are fighting. We should have the mindset that we are not fighting people, we are fighting the spirit that is in them and controlling their minds.

Principalities - means the cultures that govern people, towns, or cities.

Powers - the capacity or ability to direct or influence the behavior of others or the courses of events.

Rulers of Darkness - These rulers of darkness are individuals under the influence of the devil, who are in positions of leadership or influence and practice spiritual wickedness.  

                                                        Steps for Victory

First, you must pray and, in your prayer, acknowledge exactly how you feel and ask the Lord to help you overcome your feeling of despair. He may do it immediately or overtime but never stop praying and believing regardless of how you feel.

Now this is very important, you must remember that you are in a spiritual war with the devil who is trying to take control of your mind, to cause you to lose hope and walk away from the Lord. That should not be your reaction. Never, never give up.

 

How to Dress for Success as a Christian

To eventually have the victory and completely change your life you must put on “the whole armor of God.”

The phrase "the whole armor of God" comes from Ephesians 6:10-18, where the apostle Paul instructs Christians to be strong in the Lord and to stand against the schemes of the devil. He then lists seven pieces of armor that believers should wear: the belt of truth, the breastplate of righteousness, the shoes of the gospel of peace, the shield of faith, the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit and prayer.

 

To put on the whole armor of God means to apply these spiritual realities to our lives and to rely on them in our daily battles against sin and temptation. It means to live in the truth of God's word, to pursue holiness and integrity, to share the good news of Jesus Christ with others, to trust God's promises and power, to rejoice in our salvation and hope, and to wield the word of God as a weapon against the lies and accusations of the enemy.

 

Putting on the whole armor of God is not a one-time act, but a continual process of growth and maturity in Christ. It requires prayer, study, obedience, and dependence on the Holy Spirit. It also involves recognizing our weaknesses and vulnerability and seeking God's help and protection. As we put on the whole armor of God, we can resist the devil and stand firm in our faith. We need to have a firm mindset that with the Lord on our side victory is guaranteed.

 

To put on the whole armor of God means to live in the power and protection of everything that God has done for us in Christ. It is a way of resisting the devil's schemes and standing firm in our faith. The Bible describes six pieces of armor that we can wear spiritually:

  

Put Your Armor on for Success

 

One of the most powerful metaphors in the Bible is the image of the Christian as a soldier who puts on the whole armor of God. But what does it mean to put on the whole armor of God? And what are the different pieces of armor that cover the vital organs of the soldier's body?

 

- The belt of truth: The belt was a vital part of the Roman soldier's equipment, as it held his tunic together and supported his sword and other weapons. The belt of truth represents our commitment to honesty and integrity, as well as our adherence to God's word. It helps us to avoid deception and hypocrisy and to stand firm in what we believe.

 

- The breastplate of righteousness: The breastplate was a piece of armor that protected the soldier's chest, where his heart and lungs were located. The breastplate of righteousness represents our moral purity and obedience to God's commands. It helps us to guard our hearts from sin and temptation, and to live in a way that pleases God.

 

- The shoes of readiness: The shoes were essential for the soldier's mobility and stability, as they enabled him to march long distances and to stand firm on any terrain. The shoes of readiness represent our readiness to share the gospel of peace with others, as well as our peace with God and with ourselves. They help us to walk in God's will and to stand firm in his grace.

 

- The shield of faith: The shield was a large and sturdy piece of equipment that covered most of the soldier's body. It was used to deflect arrows and other projectiles that were thrown or shot at him. The shield of faith represents our trust in God's promises and power, as well as our protection from the attacks of the enemy. It helps us to quench the fiery darts of doubt, fear, and accusation that Satan throws at us. It is believing and doing the word of GOD.

 

- The helmet of salvation: The helmet was a piece of armor that protected the soldier's head, where his brain was located. The helmet of salvation represents our assurance of salvation and our hope in Christ. It helps us to protect our minds from doubt, despair, and distraction, and to focus on our eternal destiny. We must believe and know that we are saved regardless of our circumstances.

 

- The sword of the Spirit: The sword was the only offensive weapon in the soldier's arsenal. It was used to strike and wound the enemy in close combat. The sword of the Spirit represents the word of God, which is sharper than any double-edged sword. It helps us to fight against the enemy with God's truth and wisdom, and to expose his lies and schemes.

Prayer is also an important weapon and means of protection for Christians. We are to pray without ceasing. We should pray for ourselves, our: family, relatives, friends, colleagues, community, country, leaders, and the church.

 

Praying for Success 

 

As Christians, we are called to pray for all people, especially for our fellow believers. Prayer is a powerful weapon that can bring God's will and blessing to the church. But how can we pray effectively for the church? Here are some biblical principles to guide us:

Pray always, pray in the Spirit, pray with perseverance, and pray with supplication. This shows how vital prayer is in our lives, we must face our daily battles with prayer which will uplift our spirit and help to fortify our internal resolve.

 

To put on the whole armor of God means to appropriate each piece by faith and prayer, and to use them daily in our spiritual battles. It also means to depend on God's strength and not on our own, as Paul says in verse 10: "Be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power." By putting on the whole armor of God, we can resist the devil, stand firm in our faith, and advance God's kingdom.