Overcoming grief. (Part 1)

The Spirit of the Lord is upon me because he hath anointed me to preach the gospel to the poor; he hath sent me to heal the brokenhearted, to preach deliverance to the captives, and recovering of sight to the blind, to set at liberty them that are bruised (Lk 4:18)     

In our previous Bible study, we saw some examples of how to avoid tragedy. (1) We saw how there are some things that we must go through. The loss of a pet, friend, or family member is an example. Let’s face it, life has an expiration date and we must prepare for it.

Asking God for help is essential to helping us to cope with unexpected tragedies. The good news is that some tragedies can be avoided. Let’s look at the verse below–

Be not over much wicked, neither be thou foolish: why shouldest thou die before thy time? (Ecc 7:17)

Life is full of decisions and covering our loved ones in prayers is essential. We need the help of the Holy Spirit to give us discernment. Watching over our family especially when they are making important decisions will help us in the long run. Such a move will avoid premature deaths from occurring in our family.

                                          A Broken Heart

Having reviewed our previous lesson, let’s address the subject of a broken heart. A broken heart can be the result of a shattered dream, vision, or loss of life. Let’s look at some areas of a broken heart—

  • It can cause a person to have a cold heart. (1) One example was Adolph Hitler. Suffering the loss of his mom had impacted him. Many believe that this change caused him to have a cold heart.
  • It can affect your health.
  • It can cause you to be bitter towards God. (3) Josef Stalin would at his deathbed, raise a fist towards God. It is believed that he might have been hurt at not graduating from seminary. This, in turn, caused him to read literature about Marx and Lenin.

The Greek word for brokenhearted is “Suntribo.” Its definition is to break into pieces and crush. To tear down one’s body and shatter one’s strength. A broken heart is the root of bitterness. It will tear down your body. It will deprive you of your strength, especially in the spiritual realm.

The good news is that Jesus came to heal the brokenhearted. He wants to comfort and restore you. If you are suffering from a broken heart, ask him to heal you. He will remove the pain and give you a new beginning in life.

(1) https://bit.ly/3e2ys9n

(2) https://bit.ly/3aaRKZ6

(3) https://bit.ly/32kFQaF

Prayer–Thank you, Lord, for speaking to me today. Heal any areas in which my heart may have been broken. Heal any painful memories, as well as my emotions. You said that you have come to heal the brokenhearted. Heal me in all areas of my life–Physically, emotionally, and mentally. I receive that healing now in Jesus’s name. Amen.

How to avoid tragedy

Avoiding tragedy

A prudent man foreseeth the evil, and hideth himself: but the simple pass on, and are punished. (Prov 22:3)

Tragedy! It is a word that we do not want to hear, but it is real and has impacted many lives. Some of us have experienced it at some level in life.  Below, are some insights that can help us—

  • Losing a beloved pet has impacted the lives of many. 
  • The loss of a loved one. Such a loss can affect us emotionally, physically, and even mentally. Some do not recover from such a blow and give up hope. 

The word of God tells us that many are the afflictions of the righteous. We live in a fallen world and tragedy is part of the package. Have you ever heard the phrase–I never promised you a rose garden? Well, the reality of this life is that we live in a fallen world. We are going to have all kinds of problems and issues in life.

                                                     Good news! 

The good news is that Jesus has given us a way out. In this post, we are going to see ways on how to minimize tragedies in our life. The number one thing to have in mind is that we are in a war. As we enter the realm of prayer, we are on a battlefield.  It is a dangerous dimension and we need to be prepared.

In a war, there are casualties. People will get hurt and even die. It is no different in the spirit realm. Tragedies will come into our lives. The unfortunate reality is our loved ones will die, but the main thing is to be prepared for it when it comes. The word of God says that the Holy Spirit will show us things to come. (John 16:13) 

                                                   Fight to win!      

I like to dabble in war history. One of my favorite heroes was Army General George S Patton. He was no non-sense and was a genius in the art of war. One of his favorite quotes ( I will clean it up because he used profanity in his speeches) is that..the object of war is not to die for your country but to make the other person die for his. He added that Americans play to win all the time. We, in the body, need to have an attitude of a winner. There is no such thing as a good sport and lose in battle. 

The word of God tells us that we always, win (Romans 8:37) Always, means, always. The question to ask is why do we have unanswered prayers?  First, it is not God’s fault. There are adjustments and conditions that we need to meet. Second, our enemy is clever, very legalistic and any place you give him, he will use it to his advantage. Finally, we live in a fallen world. There will be tragedies that will come into our lives. The main thing is to, always, seek the Lord. Having this in mind will help us to understand the mysteries of prayer. If you are interested in getting more insight into this study, click on the link below.

https://www.spreaker.com/user/11700283/avoiding-tragedy

Prayer- Thank you, Lord, for your word. Lord, prepare me for those things that I must go through. Show me the things that I can change through prayer. Thank you, Lord, that you show me things to come. I confess that I have the mind of Christ.  I am more than a conqueror and victory is mine. Continue to give me the spirit of wisdom and revelation in the knowledge of him…In Jesus’ name. Amen. 

Affiliate Disclosure—In compliance with FTC guidelines, let it be known that this blog receives a percentage of the sale of the product affiliate links listed. Thank you in advance for your support. 

 

Judas—wasted Potential.

For it is written in the book of Psalms, Let his habitation be desolate, and let no man dwell therein: and his bishoprick let another take. (Acts 1:20)

Greetings. The word for today is–Don’t waste the potential that’s inside of you. God has given you gifts, skills, and talents. You may ask—What are my gifts? The answer is in God’s word.

The word of God tells us that we have a treasure inside of us. (2 Cor. 4:7) This is good news. When we were born into this world, we carried gifts, skills, and abilities to the table.  Those gifts were enhanced and more were added to us at the new birth. Some who may be reading this may not even realize the precious gift that God has given inside of us.

As we study the life of Judas, he had a couple of gifts in three areas. First, He was talented in administrative duties. Second, he was good in the area of numbers, causing him to be the treasurer of the disciples. Third, he had a talent for business and knew how to close business deals.  

The question to ask is what happened to this talented apostle? He was part of the 12 disciples and was entrusted with the power of God. (Matt 10:1) Somewhere along the line, he got sidetracked. His love for money was his weakness. God had given him many opportunities to repent, but he kept hardening his heart. As we read on, we are going to see how his hardness caused him to lose everything and abort his God-given destiny.   

                                                Your gifts and destiny

Judas forsook his future with God. He was called to be a Bishop and his purpose was to help transform the whole world for the Lord. (Acts 1:20) God could have used his gifts to draw important people to him. ( Prov 18:16) Sadly, this was not to be. Judas fell and his love of money caused him to betray his messiah.

What does this tell us? We have a God-given destiny to fulfill. Don’t abort your future destiny with God. God has put inside of us gifts to help you and others in life. For example, we can see the gift of creating businesses. A gift in that area can help you and your family. It can, also, provide jobs for others. 

Another example is the gift in the area of science and technology. This gift can bring answers to life’s toughest problems. Your gift can be creative and, even, help save lives. All of you reading this post on my blog have a gift. Do you know what it is? God wants to show us our hidden treasures and use us for his glory. 

Prayer–Thank you, Lord, for speaking to me. Lord, show me my gifts, skills, and talents. Help me to use it for your glory. Help me to use it to provide for our needs, family and even bless all the people surrounding me. Help me to pour out all that you have invested in me. Use me as a willing vessel to bring honor and glory to you. In Jesus’ name, amen.

If you don’t know Jesus in the pardon of your sins, today can be a new day. Discover how you can have a new beginning in your life. Please click on this link…https://atomic-temporary-188459402.wpcomstaging.com/2021/02/01/the-sinners-prayer/

Bible verses courtesy of http://www.biblegateway.com.

Listen to “Don’t waste your potential.” on Spreaker.

 
 

Are you a pillar or a five-fold member?

Let every man abide in the same calling wherein he was called. (I Cor 7:20)

In this post, you must ask yourself–Am I a pillar or a member of the five-fold ministry? Whether you believe it or not, you are one or the other. When you were born, God had a book of destiny, already, written about you and your ministry. Upon accepting Jesus as your Lord and Savior, God had his precious promises waiting for you. One of those promises is the mind of Christ.

In past previous posts, we had discussed the importance of developing the mind of Christ. As we renew our minds, we start to develop the Lord’s mindset. Doing this will open the book of our destiny and we will know the perfect will of God. (Rom 12:2) It is very imperative that we renew our minds daily, because staying in the carnal mindset can have serious setbacks in our walk with the Lord.

Time is running short. Jesus is coming soon and we need to be about the Lord’s business. To be effective in the body, we need to find out if we are a pillar or a member of the five-fold ministry. God bless.

 

 

 

 

 

Make a Decision.

And if it seem evil unto you to serve the Lord, choose you this day whom ye will serve; whether the gods which your fathers served that were on the other side of the flood, or the gods of the Amorites, in whose land ye dwell: but as for me and my house, we will serve the Lord. (Joshua 24:15)

A couple of years back, there was a TV ad about a popular fast food outlet. It started by mentioning the words —decisions, decisions. While this was a light hearted commercial, it was making a point. The point of choosing what to eat. In life, we are faced with making decisions on a daily basis.

Making the wrong decisions can impact your life and you family. In today’s study, we are going to see two women that are trying to get our attention. One is Lady Wisdom and the other is the Foolish woman. Each has its own house and communion table. Where you dwell can affect your decision making. Where you commune with, can affect you and your family for years to come.

Lady Wisdom has it’s communion table–Bread  and wine. It talks about the sacrifice of Christ. It speaks of covenant and its promise. It is there to give you wisdom. The answer to all your problems. (Prov 9:1-5)

Lady Foolishness is the one who is calling your attention. Her house is a house of fools. She sits in front of her house and spends time in the gates of the city. The gates of the city was the place where important governmental and other matters were judged. Her goal is to influence people in high places. (Prov 9:13-18)

You and I know that our Congress and other Governmental figures have made foolish choices. They have been visited by Lady Foolishness and been influenced by her seductive charms. That is one of the reasons why the body of Christ has to stand in the gap and pray for our leaders. They need a visit from Lady Wisdom.

Lady Foolishness has her own communion table. It consists of stolen waters and bread eaten in secret. When you read about wells and waters, it talks about sexual intimacy in marriage. (Prov 5:14-18) Her waters are stolen, which speaks of sexual immorality. Another symbolic use of wells is described as praise and worship. It is a form of intimacy with the Lord. We draw from his wells of salvation. (Isaiah 2:3)

Stolen waters is, also, a form of idolatry. When you have more pleasures in other things other than God, you have an idol. The word of God says that some are lovers of pleasure than a lover of God. (2 Tim 3:4) I am not against leisure times such as watching sports or going to a good movie, etc, but when serving God becomes second place, it can turn into an idol. 

Bread eaten in secret is deception and lies. We, as a body, need to understand the fear of the Lord. When we get comfortable in our sins and put up a front, we will be exposed. The word of God says that our sins will find us out. Yes, God is a God of grace, but he demands respect. We cannot take his grace for granted. 

So, on this day, let’s pay attention to Lady Wisdom. Make it a habit to celebrate the Lord’s supper in your home and with your family on a frequent basis, whenever possible. As a result, we will see the fruit of wisdom and understanding to face whatever problems come our way. God bless. 

Prayer–Thank you, Lord, for your word. I thank you that you have been made unto me wisdom. I forsake foolishness and walk in the way of righteousness. Thank you for your bread and wine that you offer to me on this day. I take it on this day and claim wisdom and understanding. I will not be afraid of the future, for I am more than a conqueror.  In Jesus name, Amen. 

Give Lady Wisdom a hug

Wisdom is the principal thing; therefore get wisdom: and with all thy getting get understanding.

Exalt her, and she shall promote thee: she shall bring thee to honour, when thou dost embrace her.

 She shall give to thine head an ornament of grace: a crown of glory shall she deliver to thee. (Prov 4:7-9)

Greetings. In our last Bible study, we saw the consequences of not respecting Lady Wisdom. Today, we are going to see the benefits of embracing Lady Wisdom. As you study the above verses, it shows what to look for as we hug her…

  • Promotion–In all areas of our lives
  • Honor–The fruit of Wisdom is honor. It is such a powerful force that it took Joseph from the prison to the palace.
  • Grace–Involves many things, which is favor with God and uncommon favor with man. 
  • Crown of glory–Crown symbolizes authority. As we hug Lady Wisdom, we will find ourselves endued with power and influence in the spiritual and natural realm.

Medical studies say that giving people hugs a couple of times is good for you. How much more when we hug Lady Wisdom? As we hug her, there are more that she adds to our lives. Look at the verses below…

Happy is the man that findeth wisdom, and the man that getteth understanding.

For the merchandise of it is better than the merchandise of silver, and the gain thereof than fine gold.

 She is more precious than rubies: and all the things thou canst desire are not to be compared unto her.

 Length of days is in her right hand; and in her left hand riches and honour. (Prov. 3:13-16)

Notice, it says that Wisdom makes you happy. Who doesn’t want happiness in life? In verse 16, length of days is in her right hand. Many have heard the phrase–“Tomorrow is not promised?” Well, when you embrace Wisdom, tomorrow is promised! The word speaks of long life being a blessing from God. (Deut 11:21) Also, in her left hand is riches and honor!

In today’s economy, we need Wisdom to survive. Jobs are getting scarce and money is hard to get, but as you embrace Lady Wisdom, you get money and honor! That is a good deal. So, the word for today is give Lady Wisdom a hug. Respect her and sit back and enjoy her benefits.

Prayer–Thank you, Lord, for teaching me about Wisdom. I embrace your Wisdom. I respect your Wisdom. Lord, I receive all it’s benefits. I thank you for giving me the mind of Christ. The mind of Christ is my crown and glory. Thank you for your grace and uncommon favor. Lord, teach me how to tap into your Wisdom for today’s challenges. I receive your answer in advance and declare victory over all challenges, in Jesus name.

Bible verses courtesy of http://www.biblegateway.com

A woman scorned.

But ye have set at nought all my counsel, and would none of my reproof (Prov 1:25)

In our last Bible study, we saw how Proverbs defines wisdom as a woman. How wisdom is calling out into the high places, streets, and other parts of the world. The world is looking for answers to life’s toughest problems. Wisdom has the power of bringing answers to all humanity. Today, we will see the consequences of rejecting wisdom.

                                   Don’t get Lady Wisdom angry! 

What are the consequences of rejecting wisdom?  It will bring disaster to your life. Your life will be a living hell. Here are some consequences of rejecting wisdom–

So when you get into trouble, I will laugh at you. I will make fun of you when terror strikes— when it comes on you like a storm, bringing fierce winds of trouble, and you are in pain and misery. Then you will call for wisdom, but I will not answer. You may look for me everywhere, but you will not find me.  You have never had any use for knowledge and have always refused to obey the Lord. You have never wanted my advice or paid any attention when I corrected you. So then, you will get what you deserve, and your own actions will make you sick. Inexperienced people die because they reject wisdom. Stupid people are destroyed by their own lack of concern. (Proverbs 1:26-32–The Good news version)

                                    God is a God of a second chance. 

Can you imagine going through a life of pain and trouble with no answer in sight?  To add misery to agony, Lady Wisdom will be laughing at your misfortune. (Prov 1:26) The good news is that God is a God of a second chance.  Jesus provided a way out of your troubles. Repent and get right with God. Jesus will give you a new beginning. 

The good thing about repentance is that Lady Wisdom will stop laughing. She will give you a second chance to receive her advice. Once you receive her advice, it will benefit your life and family. God bless. 

Prayer–Father, forgive me for having rejected your wisdom. Forgive me for putting you in second place. Forgive me for not spending my time with you. I come to you to repent of my foolishness. Your word says my sheep hear my voice. Help me to hear your voice. Thank you for forgiving me. I receive your forgiveness and wisdom for me today….in Jesus’s name. Amen.

Bible verses courtesy of www.biblegateway.com

 

Introducing Lady Wisdom.


Wisdom crieth without; she uttereth her voice in the streets ( Prov 1:20)

In this Bible study, we are taking a good look at Lady Wisdom. She is everywhere. Let’s take a good look at where she is dwelling (Prov 1:21)….

  • She cries out above the commotion (CSB)
  • She calls out at street corners (CJB)
  • She shouts in the marketplaces (Business) (CEV)
  • …in the openings of the gates (Political and high places) (KJV)
  • …in the city, she uttereth her words…(KJV)

My, my, my, what a busy woman she is. She does get around. Her words are not tactful, but she brings home her point. Everyday, words of wisdom are coming out of her mouth and what is the first thing she says?

How much longer will you enjoy being stupid fools? Won’t you ever stop sneering and laughing at knowledge? (Prov 1:22)

She offers some helpful advice (Prov 1:23). To turn from foolishness. Correction is being offered. Wisdom is offering a deal that you can’t refuse. In return for accepting correction, you will get her spirit and revelation knowledge of her words! The wisdom that is represented in Proverbs is Christ. The word says that Christ is made unto us wisdom (I Cor 1:30)

A question to ask is why wisdom is depicted as a female? The answer to that question is simple. It is symbolic and has an interesting analogy. Women are known for their powers of seduction and wisdom will seduce the sinner to Christ. The word says that he that winneth souls is wise.

In our previous post, we saw how wisdom will bring answers to life’s toughest problems. When you have the answers to the world’s problems, people will beat a path to your door. Jesus understood this principle when he said to Peter—Follow me and I will make you a fisher of men. The right bait is needed to win souls for the Lord and that is wisdom. More to come.

Bible verses courtesy of…..http://www.biblegateway.com

Prayer–Thank you, Lord, for speaking to me. Forgive me for being and acting foolish in my life. Show me areas where I need to make the necessary corrections. I receive your wisdom to make wise choices. Help me to see the importance of winning souls. Help me to use wisdom to win souls so that I can glorify you. In Jesus name.

Want more insight on wisdom? Check out this link….https://anchor.fm/angel-santos72/episodes/Wisdom-and-problem-solving-esfret

Wisdom is the principal thing


Wisdom is the principal thing; therefore get wisdom: and with all thy getting get understanding. ( Proverbs 4:7 ) (1)

What would you say if God, suddenly, in all his power and glory appeared to you and said—What do you want me to do for you?  Let’s look at the following possible responses–

  •  For the single woman–a husband
  • For those in financial lack–Money
  • For the sick–Healing
  • For the tormented–peace

None of the above is wrong in itself, but we are going to see Solomon’s response to God’s question ( 2 Chronicles 1: 9-11) …

And Solomon said unto God, Thou hast shewed great mercy unto David my father, and hast made me to reign in his stead.

Now, O God, let thy promise unto David my father be established: for thou hast made me king over a people like the dust of the earth in multitude.

Give me now wisdom and knowledge, that I may go out and come in before this people: for who can judge this thy people, that is so great? (1)

Notice that the first thing that Solomon did was to remember God’s promise to David, his father and him. He put God first in the equation and asked for wisdom. His desire was to be a king that could be used by God. Solomon saw the big picture and the tremendous responsibility that was before him.

He saw that in his kingdom,  there were many things that people needed help with. Fairness and justice was in his heart. Upon pondering on these things, he asked for wisdom. Oh, that God would give our leaders wisdom. That gift is needed in all aspects of life, especially in the political realm. 

King David, Solomon’s father, had wisdom, too. Israel was a mighty nation under David. He knew the secret to what made his kingdom great. Did you know that in his kingdom, he had a praise and worship team praising God 24/7? ( I Chronicles 9:33) King Solomon saw this example in his father’s life.

Two key applications to gather in this teaching. First, to pray that God will give wisdom to our leaders and second as parents to give our children an example to follow. A parent’s example can be influential and impact generations to come. In our next study, we will see the benefits of wisdom. God bless. 

 

Bible verses courtesy of www.biblegateway.com

 

The Power of giving–Part 2

For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.(John 3:16)

In our last study, we saw how giving was an important part in the Old Testament. God had commanded his people to give and none was to come before him empty-handed. (For details, refer to our last Bible devotional post) As we analyze our fundamental verse of John 3:16, it goes beyond just a nice verse of salvation. It shows how one offering can impact you and others for a lifetime.

God, himself, gave us an example. He gave a sacrificial offering. He gave us his best and that was his son Jesus. As he planted him through his death, burial and resurrection, the church was born. We have seen through history how it has impacted generations to come. 

We saw how Solomon, as he approached God in prayer, gave a thousand burnt offerings. (II Chronicles 1:6) Even in today’s economy, it was a big offering. I want to make something clear, you cannot buy God’s blessing. Yes, we need to be expecting a return on our giving, but we do it because we love God. We can’t give with impure motives. 

Even Cornelius, when he gave his alms, called God’s attention. (Acts 10:4) Your giving before God is not in vain. He keeps records and rewards accordingly. Concerning Solomon, the results of his giving impressed God that he personally visited him in the night time.

The first thing God asked was —What I shall give thee? (I Chron 1:7) Solomon did not ask for riches nor material things, but he asked for wisdom. As a result, his wisdom would be known for generations to come. He made an impact that blessed him and his family. More on wisdom tomorrow-God willing.

Prayer–Thank you, Lord, for speaking to me. Give me the spirit of wisdom and revelation concerning the subject of giving. Help me to give with a pure heart. Make me a vessel of blessing that will bless me, my family and future generations to come. Thank you, Father, for teaching me about giving. In Jesus name, amen.