Is Your Faith Gathering Dust? We live in a world that constantly demands our attention, pulling us in many different directions. Amidst the noise and the busyness, it's easy for our faith, that precious gift, to become something we acknowledge but don't actively engage with. Like a treasured photograph tucked away in a drawer, it's there, we know it's there, but how often do we truly take it out, dust it off, and allow its image to impact our present? Think about the parable of the talents in Matthew 25:14-30. The master entrusts his servants with different amounts, expecting them to invest and increase what they've been given. Out of fear, one servant buries his talent. How often do we, perhaps unintentionally, bury the gift of faith we've been given? We go through the motions, attend services, and offer a quick prayer, but is our faith truly growing, expanding, and impacting the world around us? Consider the story of the persistent widow in Luke 18:1-8. Jesus uses her … [Read more...] about Dusting Off Your Faith: Practical Steps to Increase Your Trust in God
Trust in God
Lessons from Jeremiah 38: Faith, Compassion, and Courage
In the midst of turmoil and adversity, Jeremiah 38 presents a powerful narrative of faith, courage, and perseverance. This chapter highlights the prophet’s steadfastness in delivering God’s message despite severe opposition. Let’s explore the key events of Jeremiah 38, draw valuable lessons, and connect them with other scriptures for a deeper understanding. The Plot Against Jeremiah In Jeremiah 38, there is a plot against the prophet Jeremiah. The princes of Judah were unhappy with his prophecies about the fall of Jerusalem. They accused him of demoralizing the soldiers and people (Jeremiah 38:4). “Then the officials said to the king, “Let this man be put to death, for he is weakening the hands of the soldiers who are left in this city, and the hands of all the people, by speaking such words to them. For this man is not seeking the welfare of this people, but their harm.” They convinced King Zedekiah to let them imprison Jeremiah in a cistern, where he sank into the mud (Jeremiah … [Read more...] about Lessons from Jeremiah 38: Faith, Compassion, and Courage
The Dangers of Complaining to God: Understanding the Pitfalls of a Rebellious Spirit
When faced with adversity, disappointment, or suffering, it is natural for humans to complain to God. However, it is essential to consider the implications of this action. Complaining may suggest that we believe we know better than God, who is omniscient and all-knowing. While we cannot foresee the future, God knows what is best for us. Therefore, our trials may be for our own good, preparing us for something greater. Our lives are short, like vapors that vanish away. “Whereas you do not know what will happen tomorrow. For what is your life? It is even a vapor that appears for a little time and then vanishes away” (James 4:14 NKJV). In contrast, God is eternal and unchanging. “Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and forever” (Hebrews 13:8 NKJV). Complaining with a rebellious spirit can harden our hearts and prevent God from moving on our behalf. This may cause us to wander in the wilderness until we soften our hearts and allow God to have His way in our lives.“Do not harden … [Read more...] about The Dangers of Complaining to God: Understanding the Pitfalls of a Rebellious Spirit
Embracing Humility: A Virtue Beyond Measure
In a world where self-promotion and the pursuit of personal glory are often prioritized, humility remains a timeless beacon of grace and wisdom. While navigating life’s complexities, it is crucial to reflect on the profound impact that humility can have on our relationships, personal growth, and overall well-being. The Book of Psalms, a rich source of wisdom and inspiration, reminds us in Psalm 12:3, “May the Lord silence all flattering lips and every boastful tongue.” This verse underscores the significance of avoiding arrogance and highlights the value of humility in our communication and interactions. Humility is not about putting oneself down or being weak. Instead, it is a profound strength that arises from an honest awareness of one’s abilities and limitations. It means acknowledging our strengths and weaknesses without constantly seeking validation or approval from others. Genuine humility helps us grow as individuals, become more empathetic, and form stronger connections … [Read more...] about Embracing Humility: A Virtue Beyond Measure
Finding Comfort in Psalm 34:18 – The Lord’s Promise to the Brokenhearted
“The Lord is close to those who are brokenhearted and saves those who have a crushed spirit” (Psalm 34:18 ESV). This verse provides a deep sense of comfort to those struggling with emotional pain. During times of distress and despair, this scripture serves as a guiding light, reminding us that God is always with us and has promised to rescue us from our grief. The Promise of Proximity: The first words of Psalm 34:18 affirm that the Lord is near to those who have a broken heart. This closeness implies that God is aware of our pain and intimately involved in it. This echoes the sentiment of Psalm 139:7-10, where David wonders how God’s presence is inescapable. David wonders, “Where shall I go from your Spirit? Or where shall I flee from your presence? If I ascend to heaven, you are there! If I make my bed in Sheol, you are there! If I take the wings of the morning and dwell in the uttermost parts of the sea, even there your hand shall lead me, and your right hand shall hold me” … [Read more...] about Finding Comfort in Psalm 34:18 – The Lord’s Promise to the Brokenhearted
Closing the Door on 2023: Stepping Out in Faith into 2024
As we approach the beginning of a new year, it’s common to look back on the one we just finished. The year 2023 was a journey that included various challenges, triumphs, and lessons that helped shape us into the people we are today. It is time to let go of the past and embrace the possibilities in 2024, not looking back or dwelling on the things of 2023.“Jesus said to him, “No one who puts his hand to the plow and looks back is fit for the kingdom of God” (Luke 9:62 ESV). Closing one door and opening another is not just a symbolic symbol of time passing. It is an invitation to embrace change, growth, and new beginnings. As we enter 2024, it is essential to approach it with a mindset that goes beyond the ordinary and mirrors the faith demonstrated by Peter when he walked on water. According to the Gospel of Matthew (14:29), Peter performed a miraculous feat by walking on water. One stormy day, Peter saw Jesus walking on the turbulent sea and expressed his desire to do the … [Read more...] about Closing the Door on 2023: Stepping Out in Faith into 2024
Unmasking Idolatry: A Christian’s Call to Obedience
Idolatry is a recurring theme in Christian teachings that urges believers to examine their hearts and lives. While it is generally considered the worship of physical idols, it can also refer to any devotion that competes with the worship of the one true God. In this exploration of idolatry, we will examine disobedience as a subtle yet powerful form of idol worship, uncovering its presence in our lives and challenging us to reevaluate our priorities. The theme of idolatry, which warns against the worship of anything other than God, is prevalent in the Bible. The Old Testament contains many instances where the Israelites strayed from God’s commandments and turned to idols made by human hands. However, idolatry is not just a thing of the past and can also manifest in modern forms, often disguised as success, wealth, relationships, or even personal goals. The Bible draws a significant connection between disobedience and idolatry. In 1 Samuel 15:23, the prophet Samuel warns King Saul … [Read more...] about Unmasking Idolatry: A Christian’s Call to Obedience
Exploring the Essence of God: Understanding His Attributes and Their Scriptural Significance
Theology Proper is a crucial aspect of understanding our beliefs about God. It focuses on the Godhead and God the Father, distinct from the study of Jesus as the Son of God and the Holy Spirit, though there may be overlaps. In this blog post, I will explore the concept of attributes of God and their significance in helping us know Him as He has revealed Himself to us. I will identify and explain four attributes of God, supported by relevant scriptural references. Many people engage in various debates and discussions regarding the existence of God. Some subscribe to the cosmological argument, which poses that something cannot arise from anything; hence God must have created the universe. Some people believe in the teleological argument that suggests a purposeful and beneficial universe arrangement, reflecting Christian harmony and intelligence. For instance, the distance between the moon and the Earth controls the tides, and the perfect axis of the Earth indicates the existence of a … [Read more...] about Exploring the Essence of God: Understanding His Attributes and Their Scriptural Significance
Hiking Through Life: Navigating Your Spiritual Journey with Wisdom and Purpose
There’s nothing more exciting than preparing for a hike in Arizona. Put on your hiking shoes, grab your water, apply sunscreen, don your hat, and hit the trail. As you walk, take in the breathtaking views on both sides—admire the trees, the cactuses, the large rocks, and the wildlife. Your hike should be relatively smooth as long as you stay on the designated path. However, veering off the trail can lead to trouble. This analogy also applies to Christians and their spiritual journey. Staying on the path the Lord has laid out for you, and He will straiten the path for you. “In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths” (ESV Proverbs 3:6). When hiking, it’s crucial to keep a close eye on the twists and turns of the path, ensuring that you stay on track. This concept applies to the journey of life as well. Rather than impulsively running towards the allure of every shiny object we encounter, it’s essential to reflect on the direction we want to … [Read more...] about Hiking Through Life: Navigating Your Spiritual Journey with Wisdom and Purpose