What to Do When You Need to Hear from God

 

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Are you going through a difficult time in your life, and you desperately want to hear from God...you want a solution, you want help, or you just need a word of reassurance from Him?  It could be an illness, the death of a loved one, a divorce, unemployment, financial or other hardships. You feel hopeless, lonely, or abandoned. You are wondering if God cares about you, or if He even exists. You cry out to God for help, guidance, or comfort, but feel like you have gotten no answer. You want to know that He is with you, that He understands and cares about your situation, and that He has a plan for you.

 

You may wonder why it seems that some people hear from God more easily than you do. You may even wonder if there is a secret formula or a special technique to communicate with Him. Is it possible that He is speaking to you, but are you listening? It is possible that you are not able to discern His voice from the many other voices clamoring for your attention. Many times, God is speaking to you and trying to grab your attention, but you are so overwhelmed with your situation that you don’t hear Him. You may also wonder if you are hearing from God or if you are just having your own thoughts about the issue. You may be fearful of being deceived or misled by mistaking another voice for His voice. Hearing from God is one of the most important aspects of the Christian life. But how do you know when God is speaking to you?

 

In this blog post, I will share some biblical principles and practical tips on how to hear God and be sure of his guidance. I will also address some common questions and challenges that many believers face when they seek to hear from God.

 

First, let me say that God speaks to us. He is not a distant or silent God who only communicates through His written word. He does not only speak to a select few and not to others. He doesn’t only speak to your pastor, the prophet, or the preacher you listen to We can all hear and experience the voice of God. He is a personal and living God who also speaks through His Spirit, His creation, His people, and His circumstances. He lives in us and is always speaking, but we need to tune in to His frequency and listen with an open heart. We need to allow Him to reach us rather than allow our situation to overwhelm us to the point where nothing else matters.

 

The truth is, that God is always speaking because His word is already written in the Bible. God speaks to us through His creation. The heavens declare the glory of God; the skies proclaim the work of His hands (Psalm 19:1). The natural world reveals God's power, wisdom, beauty, and creativity. As we observe and enjoy God's creation, we can hear His voice speaking to us through it.

The Bible is God's inspired and authoritative revelation of Himself, His will, and His ways. It is the primary source of truth and wisdom in our lives. It is also the standard by which we test and evaluate any other voice that claims to be from God. As 2 Timothy 3:16-17 says, "All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that the servant of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work." Have you ever gone to church and the word that was preached seemed to be directed to you. It perfectly fits your situation, and it touches you to the core? You may even wonder if someone told the preacher about your situation. God will send the right word at the right time because His timing is perfect.

 

Therefore, if you want to hear from God, you need to read, study, meditate on, and obey His word daily. You need to ask the Holy Spirit to illuminate your mind and heart as you read the Scriptures and apply them to your specific situations and needs. You need to compare any other voice or impression that you receive with what the Bible says and reject anything that contradicts or adds to it.

 

Another way that God speaks to you is through His Spirit, who lives in us as believers. The Holy Spirit is our counselor, comforter, teacher, guide, and witness. He speaks to us in various ways, such as through conviction, peace, joy, love, promptings, impressions, dreams, visions, prophecies, words of knowledge, words of wisdom, etc. He also helps us to understand and apply the Scriptures to our lives. Have you ever disobeyed a strong prompting not to do something only to regret it later? God can and does speak to us in an audible voice as he did to Samuel, but not always.

 

You need to be cautious, however, as not every voice or impression that you hear, or feel is from the Holy Spirit. Sometimes it can be from your own flesh, your emotions, your desires, your fears, your prejudices, your expectations, etc. Sometimes it can be from the enemy, who can disguise himself as an angel of light and deceive you with lies or half-truths. Therefore, you need to test the spirits and discern whether they are from God or not. As 1 John 4:1 says, "Dear friends, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits to see whether they are from God." How do we test the spirit? By using the Bible as our plumbline. As I mentioned earlier, the Bible is the ultimate authority and standard for truth. Anything that contradicts or goes beyond what the Bible says is not from God.

 

Have you ever had someone come to you with a word that you know to be one hundred percent from God? I have had that experience; I remember years ago I was going through a difficult time, and I felt abandoned by God. I was coming out of a supermarket when I saw a lady standing near my car I walked past her and as I entered my car she came and knocked on my car window, I rolled it down slightly, she said to me she was walking by earlier and as she approached my car the Lord told her to wait until the driver of the car returned and tell the driver that He has heard their cry. She told me the scripture that the Lord had given her to tell me and then she just turned and walked away. I was so shocked I could not respond. I was stunned because I knew that that message was sent by God. I should not have been stunned but I was. Many times, we pray and expect an answer from God, but when it comes, we are taken aback. This should tell us that we were harboring doubts or that we were not sure that we would get an answer. He is not a figment of our imaginations He is real.

 

Whatever your situation, be assured that God loves you unconditionally, cares for you intimately, and works for you sovereignly. He is always with you and for you, even when you don't feel or see Him. He is always speaking to us through His Word, His Spirit, His creation, His people, and His providence. He is always listening to us when we call on Him in prayer. He is always faithful to His promises and plans. We should not only cry out to Him when we are in trouble or when we need a solution to a problem. We need to continually seek His presence and worship Him in all we do. 

How to Let GO & Let GOD: Overcoming Secret Worries.

Do you struggle with anxiety, fear, or stress? Do you feel like you have to control everything in your life? Do you worry about the future, the past, or the present? If you answered yes to any of these questions, you are not alone. Many people face these challenges every day, and they can take a toll on your mental and physical health. As Christians, we are not immune to these issues. I remember during my early years of being saved I was faced with life many struggles and was trying to figure it out. I heard a preacher say, "Let go and let God." I was puzzled and I tried to understand what he meant? How do I let go and let God? Even now after being saved for over thirty years and still facing life's challenges such as health issues, relationship struggles, and financial needs, I am still learning how to Let GO and Let GOD.

There is a way to overcome these worries and find peace in your life. It is called letting go and letting God. This means trusting in God's plan for your life, surrendering your will to His, and accepting His grace and love. Letting go and letting God does not mean giving up or being passive. It means being active in your faith, following God's guidance, and relying on His strength.

 

In this blog post, I will share with you some tips on how to let go and let God in your daily life. These tips are based on biblical principles and personal experience, and they can help you reduce your worries and increase your joy.

 

Tip #1: Pray

Prayer is the foundation of letting go and letting God. Prayer is how we communicate with God, express our needs and desires, thank Him for His blessings, and listen to His voice. Prayer is also how we acknowledge our dependence on God and our need for His help. When we pray, we are saying to God, "I trust You, I need You, and I love You."

 

Prayer can be done anytime, anywhere, and in any way. You can pray silently or aloud, alone or with others, using words or thoughts, following a structure or being spontaneous. The important thing is to pray sincerely and regularly. Prayer will help you connect with God, align your will with His, and receive His peace.

 

Tip #2: Read the Bible

The Bible is God's Word to us. It is the ultimate source of truth, wisdom, and guidance. The Bible reveals who God is, what He has done, what He is doing, and what He will do. The Bible also shows us who we are, what we are called to do, and how we can live according to God's will.

 

Reading the Bible will help you let go and let God because it will increase your faith, renew your mind, and transform your heart. The Bible will teach you about God's character, promises, and plans. The Bible will also challenge you to examine your thoughts, attitudes, and actions. The Bible will inspire you to love God more and serve Him better.

 

Tip #3: Meditate

Meditation is the practice of focusing your attention on a specific object, thought, or activity. Meditation can help you calm your mind, relax your body, and improve your well-being. Meditation can also help you let go and let God by helping you become more aware of His presence, His power, and His purpose.

 

Meditation can be done in different ways. You can meditate on a word or a phrase from the Bible or a hymn. You can meditate on a picture or a symbol that represents God or His attributes. You can meditate on a breath or a sound that reminds you of God's Spirit. The important thing is to meditate with an open heart and a receptive mind.

 

Tip #4: Practice gratitude

Gratitude is the feeling of appreciation for what we have or what we experience. Gratitude can help you let go and let God by helping you recognize His goodness, His generosity, and His grace. Gratitude can also help you overcome negative emotions such as anger, resentment, or envy.

 

Gratitude can be practiced in different ways. You can keep a gratitude journal where you write down things that you are thankful for every day. You can express gratitude verbally by saying thank you to God or to others who have blessed you in some way. You can show gratitude through actions by giving back to God or to others who are in need.

 

Tip #5: Serve others.

Serving others is the act of doing something for someone else without expecting anything in return. Serving others can help you let go and let God by helping you focus on others rather than yourself, share God's love rather than hoard it, and use your gifts rather than waste them.

How to Become a Person of Excellence Following Christ

 Why should Christians operate in excellence?

As Christians, we are called to follow the example of Christ in everything we do and with everyone with whom we interact. This means that we should not be satisfied with just doing the bare minimum for tasks that we undertake, but rather seek to do them with excellence. Excellence is not about being perfect or flawless, but about doing our best with the gifts and abilities that God has given us. It is also about having a positive attitude and mindset, a willingness to learn, to improve, and to cultivate a desire to honor God and serve others.

 

We seek to have the best interaction possible with each person that crosses our path. Every person is created in the image of God and has inherent value and dignity. Every person is a potential friend, ally, or disciple. Every person has an opportunity to show the love and grace of God. Every person is a reflection of ourselves and how we treat them reveals our character and maturity. Christ has set an example for us in how he interacted with people from different backgrounds, cultures, and situations. He was compassionate, respectful, humble, honest, wise, and courageous. He was not afraid to challenge the status quo, confront injustice, or speak the truth in love. He was not influenced by the opinions of others but by the will of his Father. He was not motivated by selfish ambition but by selfless service.

In the bible, there is a story that illustrates why we should do our best. It is the parable of the talents, found in Matthew 25:14-30. In this story, a master entrusts his servants with different amounts of money (talents), according to their abilities. One was given five, another two, and the third was given one. He then goes away for a long time and expects them to use the money wisely and productively. When he returns, he rewards the two servants who multiplied their talents but punishes the third one who buried his talent in the ground. This parable teaches us that God has given each of us different gifts and opportunities, and He expects us to use them for His glory and the benefit of others. We should not be lazy or fearful, but faithful and diligent. We should not hide our light under a basket, but let it shine before men. We should not bury our talents but invest them in God's kingdom.

 

What are some of the characteristics that we need to develop and operate by in our daily lives to operate in excellence in all areas of our lives? Here are some suggestions based on biblical principles:

 

- Integrity: Proverbs 10:9 says, "Whoever walks in integrity walks securely, but whoever takes crooked paths will be found out." Integrity means being honest, trustworthy, and consistent in what we say and do. It means keeping our promises, honoring our commitments, and being accountable for our actions. It does not matter how insignificant or unimportant a task or activity may seem to you, to someone else it may be a lifeline. An example of a lack of integrity is telling someone that you are traveling to meet you are only 5 minutes away when you are really 10 minutes away. Integrity means being faithful to God. If we believe that He is all-knowing then we know that He knows everything that we say and do as written by David in Psalm 139:1-6.

- Diligence: Colossians 3:23-24 says, "Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters, since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving." Diligence means working hard, being productive, having the mindset to be successful, and doing things well. It means being focused, organized, and disciplined. It means being proactive, creative, and resourceful. It means being faithful to God and responsible to others. When you develop and practice this attitude you won’t need to have anyone micromanaging you as you will hold yourself accountable to God and to yourself first. If your lunch break ends at 2 pm practice to be back at least 5 minutes before, not right on time, or 5 minutes after.

- Excellence: Philippians 4:8 says, "Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things."  Excellence means having high standards, pursuing quality, and striving for improvement. It means being positive, optimistic, and enthusiastic. It means being grateful, generous, and gracious. It means being faithful to God and respectful to others.

 

As a Christian, operating in excellence is important because it glorifies God and reflects His character. It edifies others and builds His kingdom. Because it fulfills our purpose and expresses our worship.

 

How can we develop and apply these habits daily to everything we do and with everyone we interact with? Here are some practical steps:

 

- Start with prayer: Ask God to help you live according to his will and his ways. Ask Him to give you wisdom, strength, and grace for each day. Ask him to show you areas where you need to grow and change.

- Plan your day: Set realistic goals and priorities for each day. Make it your practice to write a daily “things to do list”, review it regularly, and cross out tasks as soon as you have completed them. Allocate your time and resources wisely. Consistently doing the bare minimum (satisficing) to get by will not make you a person of excellence. Avoid distractions and procrastination.

- Always do your best: Whatever task or challenge you face, do it with all your heart as unto the Lord. Don't settle for mediocrity or complacency.  Seek feedback and improvement. Learn from your mistakes and failures.

- Be flexible: Be open to new opportunities and challenges. Be adaptable to changing circumstances and situations. Be willing to learn new skills and acquire new knowledge. Be ready to face the unexpected and the unknown.

- Be humble: Recognize your limitations and weaknesses. Acknowledge your dependence on God and your need for his grace. Seek his guidance and direction. Submit to his authority and sovereignty.

- Be respectful: Treat everyone with dignity and kindness. Listen attentively and empathetically. Speak politely and constructively. Act courteously and considerately.

- Be helpful: Look for ways to serve others and meet their needs. Offer your assistance and support. Share your resources and gifts. Encourage others with your words and actions.

- Be thankful: Appreciate what God has done for you and what he has given you. Express your gratitude to him daily through prayer and praise. Show your appreciation to others through words and deeds.

 

How can we identify our areas of weakness and work on them consistently until we have improved in those areas? Here are some suggestions:

 

-Develop and embrace an attitude of learning continually. Each time you come across something new find out about it. Be hungry for knowledge and seek answers. For example, if you see or hear a word you do not know, find out the meaning of it. The next time you hear it you will know what it means. You can then explain it if someone asks.

- Seek feedback: Ask others for their honest and constructive opinions about your performance and behavior. Listen to their suggestions and criticisms without being defensive or offended. Learn from their perspectives and experiences.

- Seek mentors: Find someone who has the skills, knowledge, or character that you want to develop or improve. Ask them to guide you, teach you, or coach you. Follow their advice and example. Learn from their successes and failures.

- Seek resources: Find books, articles, podcasts, videos, courses, or workshops that can help you learn more about your areas of improvement. Read, watch, listen, or attend them regularly. Apply what you learn to your daily life.

- Seek accountability: Find a friend, colleague, or partner who can help you stay on track with your goals and plans. Share your progress and challenges with them regularly. Ask them to remind, motivate, or correct you when needed. Most importantly, be your own accountability watchdog.

 

Conclusion

Can making these improvements in the way we operate and live our lives be a powerful witness to others about who Jesus is and how allowing Him to influence our lives can change us for the better? Absolutely! By living in excellence, we can demonstrate the reality and relevance of the gospel to others. We can show them that following Christ is not weird, boring, or burdensome, but joyful and fulfilling. We can demonstrate to them that Christianity is a way that affects every facet of our existence. We can show them that being a Christian is not about being perfect or superior, but about being transformed and empowered by God's grace. We can show them that God loves them, has a plan for them, and can make their lives better.

 

As  Christians, we have special roles to play in the world. We are not just followers of Christ, but we are His ambassadors or representatives. Our actions and words should show His love, grace, and truth to others. We should strive to do everything with excellence, as a way of honoring God and serving His purposes. Let us therefore strive to become people of excellence following Christ, for his glory and for our good.

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.

Is Jesus Crazy? 490 Times a Day!

It is easy to tell someone who has been hurt to forgive, however, when you have been hurt it is a different story. Forgiveness is easy to say but sometimes very difficult to do. If you have been hurt and you have been struggling to forgive the person, I understand. I know what it is like to be hurt also. It certainly is not easy to just forgive someone like that, especially when they hurt you deeply. Your natural reaction is that you feel angry and betrayed. You want to get back at them, make them pay, or see them suffer. The problem we struggle with as Christians is Jesus’ teaching about forgiveness. Should we follow his example and forgive those who hurt us?

 

 

Forgiveness means different things to different people. But in general, it involves an intentional decision to let go of resentment and anger.

Jesus tells us in Matthew 18:21-22 that we should forgive not just seven times, but seventy times seven. That means 490 times a day! That sounds impossible, right? How can we forgive someone so many times, especially if they keep hurting us or don't show any remorse? Is Jesus being unreasonable or unrealistic?

No, He is not. Jesus is showing us the way to true peace and freedom. He is teaching us that forgiveness is not a one-time act, but a continuous attitude of the heart. Forgiveness is not about letting the offender off the hook, but about letting go of our resentment and bitterness. Forgiveness is not about denying the pain or injustice but about healing and moving on. Forgiveness is not about being weak or passive, but about being strong and courageous.

Forgiveness does not mean that we condone or excuse the wrong behavior, or that we forget or ignore the harm done. Forgiveness does not mean that we must trust or reconcile with the offender, or that we have to give up our rights or seek justice. Forgiveness means that we release the offender from our anger and revenge and that we entrust them to God's judgment and mercy.

Jesus says that we must forgive four hundred and ninety times a day! It's a number that boggles the mind. How can we possibly forgive someone so frequently, especially if they keep hurting us? It raises the question: Is Jesus setting an unreasonable expectation, or is there a deeper meaning to this teaching?

Jesus' Teachings on Forgiveness

Forgiveness benefits us in many ways. It frees us from the burden of hatred and bitterness that weighs us down and poisons our relationships. It heals our wounds and restores our joy and peace. It opens our hearts to God's grace and love. It enables us to grow in compassion and empathy. It empowers us to break the cycle of violence and revenge. It reflects God's character and glorifies his name.

Forgiveness is not easy, but it is possible with God's help. Jesus himself forgave those who crucified him, and he gave us His Spirit to enable us to forgive others. We can pray for God's strength and grace to forgive, and for his healing and comfort for our pain. We can also seek support from others who can help us process our emotions and guide us in our journey of forgiveness. 

Forgiveness is a gift that we can give to ourselves and others. It is a gift that God has given to us through Jesus Christ, who died for our sins and rose again to give us new life. Let us receive this gift with gratitude and share it with generosity.

The truth is we have sinned many times and each time we ask the Lord Jesus to forgive us and He does, Jesus says He will forgive us of our trespasses to the same degree that we forgive others. What Jesus is emphasizing here is not just the act of forgiveness, but the attitude of forgiveness. Forgiveness is not easy, but it is possible with God's help. Jesus himself forgave those who crucified him, and he gave us His Spirit to enable us to forgive others. We can pray for God's strength and grace to forgive, and for his healing and comfort for our pain. We can also seek support from others who can help us process our emotions and guide us in our journey of forgiveness.

How do we know that our heart has changed? The Lord is going to create a situation where someone hurts you and you find that the instinct to retaliate has been changed with the choice to forgive. Your reaction is different from what it used to be to similar situations. This teaching of Jesus is a radical departure from the eye for an eye principle. It calls for a kind of love that is patient, that is kind, that keeps no record of wrongs. It's a love that embodies the very essence of who Jesus is. This teaching challenges us to let go of our desire for revenge and instead, choose the path of forgiveness, no matter how difficult it may be."

 Summarizing the Lesson

"So, what's the takeaway from this profound teaching?" We've learned that Jesus calls us to forgive ceaselessly, even when it defies our natural instincts. He urges us to set aside the bitterness or the desire for revenge that can so easily creep into our hearts. This teaching embodies a radical form of love and mercy, challenging us to rise above our natural tendencies. "In the face of hurt and betrayal, Jesus challenges us to choose forgiveness, to choose love, and to choose mercy. This, perhaps, is the most difficult, yet the most transformative lesson on forgiveness."

A Personal Test of Forgiveness

"But how do we apply this in our daily lives?" you may ask. Well, it starts with small steps. Remember that one person who hurt you deeply? Perhaps it's an old friend who betrayed you, a colleague who spread rumors about you, or even a family member who let you down, it could also be your spouse. Instead of holding onto that pain, take a deep breath and say in your heart, "I forgive you." It won't be easy, and it certainly won't happen overnight, but it's the first step towards embodying the radical love that Jesus preached. Once you've taken this step, share your experience with others. Encourage them to do the same. Together, we can create a ripple effect of forgiveness and healing.

How to Remain Sane When Days Are Dark

 

When days are dark for Christians, it can be hard to see God's plan and purpose in their lives. They may face trials and difficulties that seem to have no end, and they may feel dejected and rejected by others. They may pray for a breakthrough, but nothing seems to change. They may even wonder if they have done something wrong to deserve such calamities, or if their parents' sins are affecting them. How can a Christian deal with such a situation? How can they find comfort and hope in God's word? How can they respond to those who ask insensitive questions or make negative assertions?

 

When days are dark for Christians, it can be hard to see God's plan and purpose in their lives. They may face trials and difficulties that seem to have no end, and they may feel dejected and rejected by others. They may pray for a breakthrough, but nothing seems to change. They may even wonder if they have done something wrong to deserve such calamities, or if their parents' sins are affecting them. How can a Christian deal with such a situation? How can they find comfort and hope in God's word? How can they respond to those who ask insensitive questions or make negative assertions?

 

 

 

One thing that a Christian can do is to remember that God is sovereign and in control of everything that happens. Nothing can happen without His permission or outside His will. Even when we don't understand why He allows certain things to happen, we can trust that He has a good reason and a good plan for us. Romans 8:28 says, "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." God can use our trials and difficulties to shape us, to teach us, to draw us closer to Him, and to prepare us for His glory.

 

 

 

Another thing that a Christian can do is to rely on God's promises and His presence. God has promised to never leave us nor forsake us (Hebrews 13:5). He has promised to be with us in the fire and in the water (Isaiah 43:2). He has promised to give us peace that surpasses understanding (Philippians 4:7). He has promised to comfort us in all our troubles (2 Corinthians 1:3-4). He has promised to supply all our needs according to His riches in glory (Philippians 4:19). He has promised to give us strength when we are weak (Isaiah 40:29). He has promised to work all things together for our good (Romans 8:28). We can cling to these promises and remind ourselves of them when we feel discouraged or hopeless.

 

 

 

A third thing that a Christian can do is to seek support and encouragement from other Christians who are going through similar situations or who have gone through them before. We are not meant to bear our burdens alone, but to share them with one another (Galatians 6:2). We can find comfort and hope in the testimonies of others who have experienced God's faithfulness and grace in their lives. We can also pray for one another, counsel one another, and edify one another with the truth of God's word (James 5:16; Colossians 3:16; Ephesians 4:29).

 

 

 

Finally, a Christian can deal with those who ask them what they did wrong to deserve such afflictions or imply that their parents must have done something wrong and that is why they are suffering by remembering that God is the judge of all, not man. We cannot assume that we know the cause or the purpose of someone else's suffering, nor can we judge them by their outward circumstances. Job's friends made this mistake when they accused him of being a sinner and a hypocrite because of his afflictions, but they were rebuked by God for speaking wrongly about Him (Job 42:7-9). Jesus also corrected this misconception when he healed a man who was born blind and said that neither he nor his parents sinned, but that this happened so that the works of God might be displayed in him (John 9:1-3). We should not withdraw from those who ask those types of questions or make negative assertions, but rather answer them with gentleness and respect, pointing them to the truth of God's sovereignty, justice, mercy, and grace.

How to Survive a Spiritual Drought

Have you ever felt like your faith is dry and barren? Like you are going through the motions of praying, reading the Bible, and attending church, but nothing seems to touch your soul? You don’t feel any connection to God? You may even be reluctant or feel that you cannot pray. It's like when it is raining in your city all the time, but there is no rain falling in your area or zip code. You are not alone. Many Christians experience seasons of spiritual drought, where they feel distant from God and struggle to find joy and peace in their relationship with Him. 

 

We want you to know that there is hope. God has not abandoned you, and He is still working in your life, even when you can't see or feel it. The devil may want to tell you that you are on your own, that God doesn’t care, or you are too insignificant for him to even remember you, and that you are better off just forgetting about Him and relying on yourself instead. Friend, beware! Do you remember how he tried to tempt Jesus? He dared Jesus to cast himself down from a mountain. He is a trickster and a liar. The Bible tells you to resist the devil and he will flee from you. We have to overcome him daily. Here are some practical steps that you can take to survive and overcome a spiritual drought.

 

1. Acknowledge your situation. Don't deny or ignore your feelings of emptiness and frustration. Be honest with yourself and with God about what you are going through. Trust God and exercise your faith in His word.  Tell Him how you feel and ask Him to help you. He already knows your heart and is not offended by your emotions. He wants you to come to Him with all your burdens and cares.

 

2. Seek the root cause. Sometimes, a spiritual drought can be caused by sin, disobedience, or unconfessed issues in your life. If that is the case, you need to repent and ask God for forgiveness. He is faithful and just to forgive you and cleanse you from all unrighteousness (1 John 1:9). Other times, a spiritual drought can be a result of a trial, a loss, or a change in your circumstances. If that is the case, you need to trust God's sovereignty and goodness and remember that He works all things together for your good (Romans 8:28). Still other times, a spiritual drought can be a part of God's refining process, where He allows you to go through a season of testing to strengthen your faith and draw you closer to Him. If that is the case, you need to persevere and endure hardship as discipline (Hebrews 12:7).

 

3. Renew your mind. A spiritual drought can affect your thoughts and emotions, making you feel depressed, anxious, or hopeless. That is why you must renew your mind with God's truth and promises. Read His Word daily, meditate on it, memorize it, and apply it to your life. His Word is alive and powerful, and it can transform your mind and renew your spirit (Romans 12:2). Also, seek Christian inspiration and Christian motivation. Listen to uplifting music, podcasts, sermons, or audiobooks that can inspire you and fill you with hope. Hebrews 10:25, “… not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as is the manner of some, but exhorting one another, and so much the more as you see the Day approaching”

 

4. Reconnect with others. A spiritual drought can make you feel isolated and lonely as if no one understands or cares about what you are going through. That is why you need to reconnect with other believers who can support you, encourage you, pray for you, and hold you accountable. Don't isolate yourself or withdraw from fellowship. Seek out a trusted friend, a mentor, a pastor, or a counselor who can walk with you through this season. Enlisting sources of Christian encouragement is important. Join a small group, a cell group, a Bible study, or a ministry where you can serve others and grow in your faith. Attend church and fellowship with other believers. This is something that the Bible implores and encourages us to do. 

 

5. Be patient and hopeful. Don't expect your spiritual drought to end overnight. It may take some time for God to work in your life and restore your joy. But don't lose hope either. Remember that God is faithful, and He will never leave you nor forsake you (Hebrews 13:5). He loves you and He has a purpose for your life (Jeremiah 29:11). He will complete the good work He began in you (Philippians 1:6). Trust in His timing and His ways.

 

6. Rekindle your passion. A spiritual drought can dampen your passion and enthusiasm for God and His kingdom. That is why you need to rekindle your first love for Him by remembering what He has done for you and how much He loves you. Spend time in His presence, worship Him with all your heart, thank Him for His grace and mercy, and praise Him for His attributes and deeds. Ask Him to restore the joy of your salvation and to fill you with His Spirit (Psalm 51:12). Also, seek out new ways to express your love for Him, such as journaling, art, music, poetry, or any other creative outlet that honors Him.

 

Remember that a spiritual drought is a part of your journey but not the end of your journey with God. It is a temporary season that can be overcome by His grace and power. He has not forsaken you; He is with you always (Matthew 28:20). He will never stop loving you; His love is everlasting (Jeremiah 31:3). He will never stop working in you; He will complete the good work He began in you (Philippians 1:6). He will never stop satisfying you; He is the living water that quenches your thirst (John 4:14). Rest in the assurance that he is with you and will never leave you or forsake you. This too will pass and you will overcome.