The Word of God

  Are You Running the Right Race? In life, we are all participants in a race. However, the question we must ask ourselves is: Are we running the right race? There are two races we can run: the spirit race and the flesh race. Are you running the right one or the wrong one? The Spirit Race vs. The Flesh Race The spirit race involves living a life that seeks to align with God's will, pursuing righteousness, and cultivating a relationship with Him. On the other hand, the flesh race is driven by worldly desires, personal ambitions, and temporary satisfactions. The spirit race leads to eternal fulfillment, while the flesh race leads to eventual emptiness and regret. Broken and Humble To run the spirit race, we must approach God with a broken and humble heart. Psalm 51:17 says, "The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit; a broken and contrite heart, O God, you will not despise." Humility opens the door for God's guidance and blessings in our lives. Seeking God as the Number ...

The Power of the Presence of Jesus The presence of Jesus is absolutely essential for God's people. It's something we need to actively maintain in our lives. Without it, we are vulnerable. Jesus mentioned the importance of this presence in His Word, and it's through dwelling in His presence that we can fight the spiritual battles we face. God as a Consuming Fire God's presence is like a consuming fire that melts the power of the evil one. When we dwell in His presence, we need not live in fear. The abiding presence of the Lord is the only power that can drive out all demons and evil spirits. As the Word says, "Submit yourselves, then, to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you" (James 4:7, NIV). Psalm 71:9-12 - God Never Forsakes His Children Psalm 71:9-12 highlights the unwavering faithfulness of God: "Do not cast me away when I am old; do not forsake me when my strength is gone. For my enemies speak against me; those who wait to kill me conspire...

 Feeling out of place or struggling to fit in is a common experience that can lead to feelings of isolation and inadequacy. However, the Bible offers profound truths and encouragement for those who feel this way. Understanding our identity in Christ and His purpose for our lives can provide a sense of belonging and peace. Biblical Perspectives on Feeling Out of Place Identity in Christ : Truth : Our primary identity is found in Christ, not in our social or professional roles. "Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!" (2 Corinthians 5:17). Application : Embrace the truth that you are a new creation in Christ. Your worth and identity are rooted in Him, not in how well you fit into the world’s standards. Chosen and Loved by God : Truth : God has chosen and loves you uniquely. "But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God’s special possession, that you may declare the praises of him who called yo...

In our spiritual journeys, we often encounter periods of intense struggle and hardship. These moments of "breaking" can be incredibly painful, yet they frequently precede profound "breakthroughs." Understanding this pattern through the lens of biblical truth can provide encouragement, strength, and hope. Biblical Examples of Breaking Before Breakthrough Joseph : Breaking : Joseph was sold into slavery by his brothers, falsely accused, and imprisoned (Genesis 37-39). Breakthrough : Despite these hardships, Joseph rose to become the second-in-command in Egypt, saving many lives during a severe famine (Genesis 41). Key Truth : "You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good to accomplish what is now being done, the saving of many lives" (Genesis 50:20). Moses : Breaking : Moses fled Egypt after killing an Egyptian and spent 40 years in the desert (Exodus 2:11-15). Breakthrough : God called Moses to lead the Israelites out of Egypt, performing miracles ...

In life, we often encounter emotional and psychological challenges that seem insurmountable. These challenges, sometimes termed "illusionary trauma," are rooted in perceptions and misconceptions that may not have a basis in reality but still cause significant distress. Turning to biblical truth provides clarity, healing, and a foundation for mental and spiritual well-being. Understanding Illusionary Trauma Definition and Impact : Illusionary trauma refers to the psychological pain and suffering arising from distorted perceptions and false beliefs. Unlike trauma caused by actual events, illusionary trauma is based on misinterpretations and internalized fears. Common Sources : Misinterpretations : Misunderstanding events or people’s intentions can lead to feelings of rejection, betrayal, or inadequacy. Fear : Imagining worst-case scenarios that may never happen can create anxiety and stress. Self-Doubt : Internalizing negative thoughts and feelings about oneself can lead to a p...

Joel 3:14 for Everyday Life Decisions with a Focus on Seeking God’s Will "Multitudes, multitudes in the valley of decision! For the day of the Lord is near in the valley of decision." "Multitudes, multitudes in the valley of decision!" Multitudes : This represents the numerous choices and decisions we face in our daily lives. Each decision provides an opportunity to seek God’s guidance and align our actions with His will. Valley of Decision : The "valley of decision" is a metaphor for the moments when we pause to consider our options and seek God’s wisdom. It is a place of spiritual reflection and discernment, where we earnestly pray and listen for God’s direction. "For the day of the Lord is near in the valley of decision." The Day of the Lord : In this context, it signifies the moment when we decide to act in accordance with God’s will. It is a reminder that God’s presence is with us as we make choices, and that His will can guide us to the bes...

As children of God, believers in the highest God, we are called to learn how to partner with God, relying on Him for all things. It is by His grace and mercy, demonstrated through the sacrificial work of Jesus on the cross, that we are privileged to enter into this partnership (Ephesians 2:8-9 KJV). God calls for total obedience, inviting us to be saints and high priests as mentioned in the Bible (1 Peter 2:9 KJV, Revelation 1:6 KJV). Our journey involves leaning on God and being guided by Him through the renewal of the mind and other transformative processes (Romans 12:2 KJV). Most importantly, it is to walk closely with the Holy Spirit, being sensitive to Him and His guidance and instructions (John 14:26 KJV), praying authoritative prayers with the Word of God to attain Dunamis – the power to transform and perform (Ephesians 3:20 KJV). We are ordained by God to fulfill His will and to complete our destiny tasks (Jeremiah 29:11 KJV), empowered by the promise of Acts 1:8 KJV to be His ...

In our journey of faith, it's crucial to reflect on how we use our words. Too often, we see examples of people acting and speaking on their own accord, without seeking the Lord's direction. This can lead to unintended consequences, creating obstacles rather than aligning with God's plan. This truth is evident both in the Bible and in our lives today. Consider the following biblical examples: Moses : In a moment of anger, Moses struck the rock instead of speaking to it as God commanded, resulting in him not being allowed to enter the Promised Land (Numbers 20:10-12). Joshua : After the miraculous victory at Jericho, Joshua pronounced a curse over the city, declaring that anyone who rebuilt it would do so at the cost of their firstborn and youngest son (Joshua 6:26). Peter : Peter often spoke impulsively, such as when he denied Jesus three times. However, after his repentance, he became a cornerstone of the early church (Luke 22:61-62, John 21:15-17). Abraham : Despite moment...

Mocking God is a serious offense in the Bible, and various passages address the consequences of such behavior. Here are some key points and biblical references related to mocking God: Biblical References Galatians 6:7 (NIV) : "Do not be deceived: God cannot be mocked. A man reaps what he sows." This verse clearly states that mocking God is futile because God is just and will ensure that each person receives consequences for their actions. Proverbs 1:24-26 (NIV) : "But since you refuse to listen when I call and no one pays attention when I stretch out my hand, since you disregard all my advice and do not accept my rebuke, I in turn will laugh when disaster strikes you; I will mock when calamity overtakes you." Here, wisdom personified warns that those who mock and ignore divine counsel will face their own ruin and be mocked in return. Psalm 1:1 (NIV) : "Blessed is the one who does not walk in step with the wicked or stand in the way that sinners take or sit in t...

God being a "jealous God" is found in several passages of the Bible and is a significant aspect of His nature. This jealousy is not like human jealousy, which can be petty and self-serving. Instead, it reflects God's deep love for His people and His desire for their exclusive devotion. Here are some key points and biblical references that explain this concept: Biblical References: Exodus 20:4-5 (NIV) : "You shall not make for yourself an image in the form of anything in heaven above or on the earth beneath or in the waters below. You shall not bow down to them or worship them; for I, the Lord your God, am a jealous God, punishing the children for the sin of the parents to the third and fourth generation of those who hate me." Deuteronomy 4:24 (NIV) : "For the Lord your God is a consuming fire, a jealous God." Deuteronomy 5:9 (NIV) : "You shall not bow down to them or worship them; for I, the Lord your God, am a jealous God, punishing the children ...

The "Seven Spirits of God" is the fullness and perfection of the Holy Spirit. By seeking and embracing the fullness of the Holy Spirit, you can experience the complete and transformative work of God in your life. Here are some key points and scriptural references regarding the Seven Spirits of God: Scriptural References: Revelation 1:4 (NIV) : "John, to the seven churches in the province of Asia: Grace and peace to you from him who is, and who was, and who is to come, and from the seven spirits before his throne." Revelation 3:1 (NIV) : "To the angel of the church in Sardis write: These are the words of him who holds the seven spirits of God and the seven stars. I know your deeds; you have a reputation of being alive, but you are dead." Revelation 4:5 (NIV) : "From the throne came flashes of lightning, rumblings and peals of thunder. In front of the throne, seven lamps were blazing. These are the seven spirits of God." Revelation 5:6 (NIV) : ...

Loving anything   more than God is idolatry is a significant biblical principle. It emphasizes that God should be the highest priority and central focus of our love and devotion. Idolatry, in this context, is not limited to the worship of physical idols but extends to anything that takes precedence over our relationship with God. Here are some key points and biblical references to understand this concept: Key Points: Definition of Idolatry: Idolatry is placing anything or anyone above God in our affections and priorities. It can include material possessions, relationships, careers, hobbies, or personal ambitions. Heart and Affections: God desires our wholehearted love and devotion. When we allow other things to take God's place in our hearts, we commit idolatry. First Commandment: The first commandment, "You shall have no other gods before me" (Exodus 20:3, NIV), underscores the importance of loving and prioritizing God above all else. Spiritual Adultery: Idolatry is ofte...

Being "in season" with God means maintaining a deep, continuous relationship with Him through prayer, studying Scripture, and following the guidance of the Holy Spirit. It involves trusting in His timing, being prepared to act according to His will, and living a life that reflects His love and righteousness. By embracing these principles, you can align your life with God's purposes and be fruitful in every season. 1. Stay Rooted in God's Word Regularly read and meditate on the Scriptures to understand God's will and grow spiritually. Psalm 1:2-3 (NIV): "But whose delight is in the law of the Lord, and who meditates on his law day and night. That person is like a tree planted by streams of water, which yields its fruit in season and whose leaf does not wither—whatever they do prospers." 2. Be Led by the Holy Spirit Allow the Holy Spirit to guide your thoughts, decisions, and actions. Galatians 5:25 (NIV): "Since we live by the Spirit, let us keep i...

Hearing from God is a transformative experience that deepens one's faith and spiritual understanding. Here are five key practices supported by Scripture that can help you tune in to God's voice: 1. Remain Pure "Purity of heart leads to a clearer vision of God," as Jesus states in Matthew 5:8, "Blessed are the pure in heart, for they will see God." To remain pure, one must strive to live a life free of sin and full of grace. Other verses that emphasize purity include: Psalm 51:10 : "Create in me a clean heart, O God, and renew a steadfast spirit within me." 1 John 3:3 : "All who have this hope in him purify themselves, just as he is pure." These verses remind us that purity is not just about avoiding wrongdoing, but actively seeking renewal through God's grace. 2. Have a Relationship with God Through Prayer Building a relationship with God is akin to nurturing a friendship; it requires communication and intimacy. Matthew 6:6 advises, ...