Remedy Discouragement with God's Encouragement!

"The Christian's chief occupational hazards are depression and discouragement."   - John Stott, British Anglican pastor and theologian (1921-2011)

Everyone is familiar with discouragement. It commonly occurs when we've pinned our hopes on something or someone, and then the bottom falls out. This shared human experience affects even those of us with strong faith. 

Discouragement can leave us feeling unmotivated, lethargic, apathetic and spiritless, among other things. One may even believe that they have fallen into a deep, dark hole from which there is no escape. 

Unquestionably, feelings of hopelessness and despair can be overwhelming loads to carry. Mercifully, the Bible acknowledges that discouraging situations in life can, and do, result in these issues. 

And if you think you're alone in your discouragement, you couldn't be further from the truth! Scripture contains a long list of individuals who endured discouragement, including: Elijah, Moses, David, Jeremiah, Job, Hanna and Esther!

As stated above, discouragement can manifest itself in many ways. What can the Christian do when it does? During times of "discouragement" we need not look any further than the Bible for helpful "encouragement" and inspiration.

A good starting point is to focus on God's divine nature and promises. Recall His goodness, think about God's past blessings and faithfulness, and importantly, His steadfast love (Lamentations 3:22-23).

It's also essential to devote oneself to His promises, and believe in them even when things seem discouraging (2 Corinthians 1:3-4; Joshua 1:6). Of course, always include prayer, Bible reading, and casting your cares upon Him.

Other helpful advice worth mentioning is to persevere and not give up, put forth an unyielding spirit against negativity, find inspiration in the Lord, continue serving Him in work or ministry, and just be honest with God about your despair.

In the matter of discouragement, we've all been there. God understands what we're going through, and always offers His comfort and strength. Moreover, some also find the support of a trusted friend, counselor, or pastor to be helpful as well.

Don't let discouragement prevent you from living! Instead, think of it as a formative process and use it for spiritual and personal growth. Give your problems to God through prayer and trust in His care. He is standing by waiting to hear from you (Psalm 55:22).

Scripture: Joshua 1:9;  Psalm 56:3; Proverbs 3:5-6; Jeremiah 29:11; Romans 8:26 

Prayer: "Dear Lord, show me through this discouraging time and remind me that I'm not alone. Help me trust in your plan for my life, even when it's unclear to me. Fill me with your peace and hope, and help me see You in my life. Amen."

Blessings always,

Shelby

Video Message | How Jesus Can Be Your Safe Harbor | Beth Moore

What does it mean that "God is our safe place to be?" Beth Moore, American Anglican evangelist, author, and Bible teacher, explores this topic here in this short clip from a longer teaching series. 

Most understand that it can't guarantee that we won't ever experience anything bad in our lives. In fact, we've probably known faithful people have have undergone deep suffering, including Jesus Christ.

© Living Proof Ministries with Beth Moore

Jesus is all powerful, and will come back to judge the world…and yet, He is also your safe harbor. Come learn with Beth Moore about what it means for Jesus to be your safe harbor during every trial and hardship of your life.

As always, Beth shares some very good information to help us all in our walk with Jesus Christ. Pour yourself a cup of coffee, get comfortable, and spend a few minutes to hear a good Word!

May God richly bless you,

~Eve

Does God Expect Perfectionism..?

"A heart perfect with the Lord is not sinless perfection, nor flawless obedience, but sincerity of intent and desire to do God's will."  - Keith L. Brooks, author and founder of the American Prophetic League of Los Angeles (1888-1954)

One of the most frequent questions I'm asked is this, "Does God expect us to be perfect?" I can see where this might cause some concern and even fear in some. But perhaps I can help ease some of the anxiety about it today.

One of the biblical truths is God receives us in our current state. He understands us completely; that is, He knows us inside and out. This includes all of our failures, sins, and bad tendencies. Nothing is hidden from Him!

The late Billy Graham once said, "If God required us to be perfect, then no one—absolutely no one—would ever be able to be a Christian! We’re all sinners, and no matter how hard we try, we still sin and fall short of God’s standard."

You see, God does not expect us to be spotless or immaculate in this life. Yet even with all of our serious issues He still loves us. And not only that, He desires to forgive us and invite us into His family. 

The Bible opposes "perfectionism," while stressing God's grace and His acceptance of flawed humans by way of their faith in Jesus Christ. When we attempt to be perfect we are trying to do something that only God can do.

It's fair to say that by thinking "perfectionism" is even possible, we are setting ourselves up for failure in a big way. Some might confuse being righteous with being perfect, but they are two different things altogether.

Righteousness, which is encouraged, includes living a life that demonstrates good moral character and following God's will. While perfectionism means being totally faultless and living in a state of moral excellence and wholeness. 

With its focus on self-reliance and the fear of failure, perfectionism is seen as a deception that inhibits spiritual progress and the development of relationships. Consequently, it's by the grace of God, and not human perfection, that our relationship with Him is based on.

When we maintain a mindset of perfectionism, we are only promoting stress and anxiety on ourselves. This in turn, leads to a life filled with discontent and disappointment, of which God definitely does not want for us.

As the gospel declares, we are unable to save ourselves. We need a Savior, and that’s why Jesus came. God will save us if we repent of our sins and accept Jesus Christ in faith for our salvation, imperfections and all. There is no other way. 

Finally, God doesn't expect perfection from any of us. Nor does He expect us to attain ultimate and infinite, saintliness in this life. He would prefer to see us work toward moral and spiritual growth, than an appearance of sinlessness.

Scripture: 2 Samuel 22:31; Ecclesiastes 7:20; Romans 12:2; 2 Corinthians 12:9; Philippians 3:12

Prayer: "Dear Lord, I thank you that your love is not based on my perfection, but instead your perfect love for me. Remind me that my identity is found in you, and not in my own achievements. Help me to ease the pressure to be perfect and to accept myself as you accept me, imperfections and all. Amen."

May the grace of God be with you,

Andrea

Weekend Spiritual Insight | There Is Only One True God!

"Anything in life can serve as an idol, or a counterfeit god."  - Timothy J. Keller, American Presbyterian pastor, preacher, theologian, and Christian apologist (1950-2023)

To help understand the concept of a counterfeit or "false god," a concise explanation of what this means is in order. The term is commonly connected with "idolatry," the worship of idols or images. 

However, it can also include any thing or concept that we worship more than God in our lives. In today's context, we think of "false gods" as objects into which we place our faith and devotion, but have nothing to do with Him.

These can encompass many things, including, but not limited to: material possessions, social position, power, fame, pleasure, even self-reliance. It also involves anything that diverts you away from your relationship with God.

With the advent of technology, specifically the internet and then social media, we've seen a rise in people seeking instant gratification, and the dissemination of political ideologies. Both of which can easily be added to the list above.

Many false gods are also mentioned in scripture, for example: Baal, the Canaanite storm god, and Chemosh, the chief god of Moab. Still, the Bible emphatically condemns the worship of any false gods and/or idols, while stressing the one true God.

We have the ability to break from the hold of false gods and idols. First, we must admit that it is unrestrained and then denounce it in its many forms. This is a product of Satan and not of God! True fulfillment will never be achieved by following this course of falsehoods.

"For everything in the world—the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life—comes not from the Father but from the world." - 1 John 2:16 (NIV) 

Then, it is crucial that we turn our attention toward God and to others. When we completely focus our love on Him and other people, there will be no place in our hearts for anything else but the One True God!

Scripture: Exodus 20:3; Psalm 115:4-8; Isaiah 43:10; Matthew 24:24; 2 Peter 2:1

Prayer: "Dear God, provide me with discernment to recognize the truth and protect me from the deception of false gods. Lead me on the path of righteousness and help me stay strong in my faith. In your name I pray. Amen."

May God richly bless you,

~Eve

Walking By Faith | Self-Control, A Signature of Christian Character

"The first and best victory is to conquer self."  - Plato, ancient Greek philosopher of the Classical period (429?–347 BCE)

Self- control (many times translated as "temperance" or "self-discipline") as described in the Bible is a core moral quality, an outward manifestation of God's character, and a signature of Christian character.

The Merriam-Webster Dictionary defines "self-control" as: restraint exercised over one's own impulses, emotions, or desires. That is to say, it's the ability to control these things, which can often be done by checking our actions and/or behaviors.

Having said that, self-control is more than just moderation. For the Christian believer, he or she may direct these aspects of human motivation and experience toward God's will. I'd like to share what this looks like:

• First and foremost, one should always seek God's guidance; relying on His power to stand strong against temptation and help in making smart choices.
• Practice patience! I understand that this might be difficult for some, but God does not dance to our tune. We must wait for Him to move first, and not the other way around.
• Look before you leap! Resist the the desire to do something that could cause sin. (Refer to the first two suggestions!)
• Pray, pray, pray! This is the best advantage a believer has. Give God your concerns and let Him handle it. He knows what's best for each of us in any situation.

It's important to add that according to Christian theology, "self-control" is one of nine "fruits of the Spirit." These are visible positive character traits of God's character, and manifestations of the Holy Spirit's guidance emanating from within a believer.

Including "self-control," the Bible names the other "fruits of the Spirit" as: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, and gentleness (Galatians 5:22-23).

There are many examples in the Bible of individuals who exhibited "self-control" when subjected to challenging circumstances. These include Nehemiah (Nehemiah 6), Daniel (Daniel 1:8), and of course Jesus.

Since we base much of what we know on what we see, it becomes glaringly obvious that when it comes to self-control, our world is a flawed model of what it should look like!

Thankfully, self-control is an important aspect of Christian living. Among other things, it helps us to resist temptation, follow a righteous life, and to cultivate and strengthen our moral and ethical qualities.

In closing, "self-control" is much like a wall against temptation and other negative desires or impulses. And while it does not make temptation itself go away, it enables a person to demonstrate control until it passes or is chased off.

Scripture: 1 Corinthians 9:25; Galatians 5:22-23; 1 Timothy 2:9-10; James 1:19-20; 2 Peter 1:5-9

Prayer: "Dear Lord, I pray for the strength to resist temptations and to show self-control in my words, thoughts, and actions. Help me to grow patience and gentleness, and develop a disciplined mind centered on positive, uplifting thoughts, Amen."

Sincerely with the Grace of God,

Sloane

Video Lesson | How to Put Off Our Old Habits of the Flesh | Beth Moore - Part 2 of 2

This week we present the second, and final installment of a 2-part series by American evangelist and author Beth Moore. In her last session, she set forth what it looks like to live practically in Jesus Christ.

This time, Beth declares, "We are utterly excellent at being our old selves, because we have practiced and practiced and practiced and practiced. So the reason we continue to feel those same old ways about those same old things is because we continue to operate out of that same old person."

Does this sound familiar..? You know you need to get to the root of the problem, but how do you do that? 

© Living Proof Ministries with Beth Moore

Scriptural References: Proverbs 4:23; Matthew 23:28; 24:10-12, 12-13; 28:16-20; Ephesians 4:32; 

Join us as Beth Moore explores this problem which many have dealt with, or are dealing with now. If we want to look for the root of the stronghold in any of our lives, look for the lie. It is always rooted, every stronghold is rooted in some kind of deception.

May God richly bless you,

~Eve

A Restoration of the Spirit

"Return to your fortress, you prisoners of hope; even now I announce that I will restore twice as much to you."  - Zechariah 9:12 (NIV)

The Christian will suffer in various ways during the course of life. Many sins and hardships take its toll over time. And although we have received salvation, it does not block pain and heartache in our temporal existence.

As with any long-term endeavor, our determination, energy, enthusiasm, resolve, or whatever else you might want to call it, is subject to requiring maintenance, or even repair. 

If you've been a true and faithful believer for a while, you may have experienced this. And while some may sound the panic alarm, it's not unusual, nor is it anything to be ashamed of. 

What is needed is "spiritual restoration!" For the Christian, this has to do with taking action to return to a right relationship with God; usually after span of sin, disobedience, or spiritual decline.

The concept is well-established in Scripture, with God frequently trying to bring His people back to Himself. Some might ask, "Okay, well and good, but what does this require on my part?"

Here are some important points regarding "spiritual restoration" as featured in the Bible. This includes:

• Acknowledging sin, turn away from it, and seek forgiveness from God (repentance).
• A return to God, which can only happen through Jesus Christ (reconciliation).
• The desire to live in obedience to God that occurs by experiencing a change of heart (renewal of the heart).
• Finding joy and peace in the presence of God regardless of past hurts, (restoration of joy and peace).
• Wanting the pleasure and satisfaction of living a life that manifests God's character and purpose to the world (transformation).
• Always consider that "spiritual restoration" is not a one-time event, but a life-long journey. 

There are many excellent examples of these concepts in action throughout Scripture. For instance, after his sins, King David repented and desired God's restoration by praying for a pure heart (Psalm 51:10 ).

Another good example is the The Parable of the Prodigal Son (Luke 15:11-32). The prodigal returns home to his father, then is joyfully welcomed back into his family. Thus, demonstrating a restoration of a broken relationship.

In the end, restoration is more than just a repair job. It's about getting back on track with God's plan for you. Think of it as a readjustment or reset that encourages you to thrive and flourish within His Kingdom.

"Spiritual restoration" then pertains to healing from the results of our sins, and reestablishing one's relationship with God. The outcome is being able to live a transformed life through repentance, reconciliation, and His mercy and grace.

Scripture: Job 42:10; Psalm 23:3; Proverbs 3:5-6; Zechariah 9:12; 1 Peter 5:10  

Prayer: "Holy Father, restore the joy of your salvation, renew my exhausted spirit, and fill me with your Holy Spirit. Help me find strength in your love and guidance, and guide me on the path of spiritual growth, Amen."

In Christ's Love,

Alissa

Weekend Spiritual Insight | Finding Joy in the Lord

"True happiness is to rejoice in the truth, for to rejoice in the truth is to rejoice in You, O God, who are the truth... Those who think that there is another kind of happiness look for joy elsewhere, but theirs is not true joy."  - Saint Augustine of Hippo, Theologian and philosopher (345-430 A.D.)

Considering the state of our present world, finding anything to be joyful about can be elusive at times. However, Jesus Christ in His infinite kindness and compassion doesn’t want us to submit to despair.

In fact, He urges Christians to be joyful at all times! Consider this before you reject it; it doesn't mean that we should walk around with a fake smile of superficial happiness on our faces! 

1 Thessalonians 5:16 (NIV) urges us to “Rejoice always.” What this suggests is a commitment to experiencing God’s presence or nearness in our lives. It is the perception of this connection that can bring us joy.

Understand that this can vary from individual to individual. There is no “one-size-fits-all” when it comes to how we may respond to life, questions, others and most importantly, God. You may ask, "But, where can I find this kind of joy?"

It's how we view life through the lens of God's love and grace. This can look like many things. For some it might mean maintaining a constant awareness of God through regular daily prayer, meditating on Scripture, or simply seeking out God.

It's in the acknowledgement of God's immanence or nearness and recognizing His hand in routine activities, interactions, and situations. When it comes to finding joy in the Lord, we can always draw from His heavenly reservoir that never runs dry!

Scripture: Psalm 16:11; Proverbs 17:22; Romans 15:13; Philippians 4:4; Hebrews 12:2

Prayer: Dear Lord,  I come to You with a grateful heart, acknowledging Your presence as the source of all joy. May Your joy be a constant source of strength and inspiration, Amen."

May God richly bless you,

~Eve

The New Birth is Only the Beginning

"But regeneration does not perfect the image of God in you. The image of God must continue to grow and come forth, as an artist works on a painting."  - A.W. Tozar, American Christian pastor (1897-1963), "The Attributes of God."

The saving blessing of "regeneration," or "the new birth," is the capstone of the faith journey for many. The goal has been reached, and now it's time to sit back, put your feet up, and bask in the glory of your victory.

But nothing could be further from the truth! The "real work" has only just begun. My purpose today is not to pursue a full discourse on the theological concept of "regeneration," or "the new birth," but to explore what follows after.

This concept is the spiritual transformation brought on by God's Holy Spirit, where a person is given "spiritual life" and is made into a new creation in Christ, or "born again" from a previous state of separation from God and subject to suffering "spiritual death" (Ephesians 2:5).

Besides being a supernatural work of the Holy Spirit, several other things are also included in this move from spiritual death to new life in Christ, such as repentance, faith, and a renewed commitment to God's will.

Being "born again" is an immediate event, similar to an emergency. But as I alluded to earlier, it is only the start of a lifelong journey; one could look at it as discipleship or even sanctification.

Now, let's examine what this real work after "the new birth" looks like. For example:

• There is growth in Holiness. We are given a new nature that provides the power to obey God. Even so, Christians will still struggle with sinful desires. But because of the process of ongoing sanctification, we are equipped by the Holy Spirit to overcome these desires and grow in holiness.
• Obeying God's Commandments: This means that true faith is manifested through obedience to His commandments. This isn't done to earn salvation, but instead is a natural outflow of our new nature. It includes earnestly making godly choices and defying sin.
• Developing Spiritual Disciplines: To actively engage in practices, habits, and experiences that foster spiritual growth and a deeper relationship with God, such as prayer and Bible study. "Regeneration" necessitates this intentional effort and commitment.
• A deep care and concern for other Christians: Being "born again" encourages a love for God and for others. This is expressed through being active in the Christian community, and offering inspiration and support, etc.
• Using Spiritual Gifts: Believers are empowered with spiritual gifts by the Holy Spirit. These can be used to serve God and educate the church. Discovering what these gifts are and utilizing them is part of the continual work and growth after being "born again."
• Sharing of the Gospel: After "the new birth" we possess a desire to share the Gospel with others. This includes an eagerness to proclaim the Gospel and having faith in the Holy Spirit to produce a "new birth" in others.

Lastly, although "the new birth" is both a miraculous and immediate experience begun by God, the ensuing Christian life must include some additional components, like strong involvement in spiritual growth and guided transformation enabled by the Holy Spirit.

Scripture: Ezekiel 36:26; John 3:3; 2 Corinthians 5:17; Titus 3:5; 1 Peter 1:3 

Prayer: "Dear Lord, thank you for the gift of salvation and the promise of eternal life. I pray that I will always be a faithful believer and a good example of your love in the world,  Amen." 

Yours in Christ,

Emily

Video Lesson | How to Put Off Our Old Habits of the Flesh | Beth Moore - Part 1 of 2

Here's a question for you: "We all desire to put off our old (bad) habits and instead put on new (good) habits in Christ. But how do we actually do that?"

American evangelist and author Beth Moore explores this question in a full-length 2-part series. This week in the first installment, using the Book of Ephesians, she sets forth what it looks like to live practically in Jesus Christ.

© Living Proof Ministries with Beth Moore

Scriptural References: Psalm 25:4-5; Matthew 24: 12-13; Galatians 6:10; Ephesians 4:17-32; Ephesians 5:1-2; Colossians 3:9 

When we practice living with our old selves, we get very good at it. But when we live instead in the new and renewed mind of the Spirit, we put off our old habits. Come join the discussion and learn how to practice putting off your old habits and living in Christ!

Lots of great advice here. You'll want to make sure you have something handy to take some notes!

May God richly bless you,

~Eve

Walking By Faith | Our Unchangeable and Perfect God

"One of two things causes a man to change his mind and reverse his plans: one is foresight to anticipate everything, or lack of foresight to execute them. But as God is both omniscient and omnipotent there is never any need for Him to reverse His decrees."  - A.W. Pink, English theologian (1886-1952)

Unchangeable. This is a word that should come to every mind when one considers the nature of God. I refer you to the opening verse in Psalm 119:89 (KJV): "For ever, O LORD, thy word is settled in heaven."

I've italicized the above words "For ever" and "settled" for illustration purposes. Strong's Exhaustive Concordance of the Bible translates the former as a Hebrew noun (masculine) olam (עוֹלָם) meaning: eternity, everlasting, forever, perpetual, ancient, world. 

Regarding the latter, Strong's translates it as a Hebrew verb natsab (נָצַב) meaning: to stand, set, establish, station. It is clear that both examples imply a sense of permanence, lastingness, and enduringness.

You may be familiar with another term, "immutable," which is a synonym for "unchangeable." According to the Miriam-Webster Dictionary, immutable is defined as: not capable of or susceptible to change. 

We're always susceptible to indecision, unsureness, and uncertainty. Thankfully, God isn't. His nature, attributes (traits), and purposes are eternal and unchanging. They cannot be changed or altered in any way, shape, or form.

A wishy-washy, hesitant, or doubtful God would not be God at all. We'd like to embrace the fact that once God has said something, He will never go back on His word, or beat around the bush, leaving us guessing as to what He really has in mind.

The point of all this talk about God's unchangeableness/immutability, is that it provides a solid foundation on which we can base our faith and hope. It confirms that His promises and truths will never waver. They will remain the same forever.

In closing, some important takeaways from our discussion are that:

• God's unchangeable word assures us that His word is truth and is a dependable guide for life.
• His unchanging nature is demonstrated in His word, which is consistent and dependable.
• God's eternal word provides us with comfort and stability in world that is in is in turmoil.
• The reliability of His word offers direction and expectation for humanity.
• The unchangeableness of God's word is practical and can be relied on to guide us in our daily lives.

We have not exhausted this topic by any means, however, I hope that it has served to remind you of God's perfection, and that because of this He is beyond any need for growth or change, unlike you and I.

Scripture: Numbers 23:19; Isaiah 40:8; Malachi 3:6; John 17:17; Hebrews 13:8

Prayer: "Dear God, in a world that is always changing, You never change. You are ever present and always relevant because You are always perfect, current, and immutable,  Amen."

Sincerely with the Grace of God,

Sloane

Weekend Message | How to Return to Church After Being Hurt | Beth Moore

Welcome to the Weekend Message! 

As always, it's our pleasure to bring you quality presentations from some of the best Christian teachers in the world! Each video presentation can vary, but whatever the topic, you can be certain that it will be informative and Bible-based.

This week we present American evangelist and author Beth Moore in a short video clip in which she responds to the question, "How should you return to church after being hurt in a church?" during a Q&A session in front of a live audience.

If you're familiar with Beth's story, she experienced hurt by her own denomination. Her advice comes from personal experience. So she’s definitely a good person to direct this question to!

© Living Proof Ministries with Beth Moore

Should this be your situation and you have been hurt by a church, don’t give up on the whole idea of church! Churches are made up of Christians, who by very definition are broken people who know they need help. We are prone to failure, but being part of a church community is still worth pursuing.

May God richly bless you,

~Eve

Is Your Faith All It Can Be? | A Believer's Checklist

"I spent most of the early years of my walk with God focused on what was wrong with me. Most of us probably do that, hoping to change ourselves."  - Joyce Meyer, American Christian author and speaker (1943-Present)

Most of us schedule an annual physical examination with a medical professional (or at least we should!) The purpose is to see how our bodies are functioning and make any necessary changes or modifications for our health's sake.

For our peace of mind, these wellness checks help us keep on top of potential problems before they develop into major ones. In the same manner, we should perform a "spiritual check-up" from time to time.

We are just about half-way through this current year, so now would be an ideal time to see if there are any areas in your spiritual life that need attention. I understand, it's a long year and a lot can happen in our lives. 

That's exactly why it's a good idea to see if we're where we want to be in our relationship with Jesus Christ. But what is the best way to go about this? A checklist is a good tool to help make it realistic and manageable for you.

A believer's checklist should include an inventory of practices and behaviors that are characteristic of a Christian faith. For example, it might focus on prayer, Bible reading, community involvement, and sharing your faith with others.

Additional information could include instruction/guidance on how to grow in faith and oppose sin. Bear in mind, however, a checklist that gets put aside after a short while is not beneficial to anyone. The point is to keep it reasonable and attainable! 

The wonderful thing about a checklist is that there isn't any mandatory standard to follow. And you don't have to be a theologian to create one! In fact, here are a few suggestions to help you create one that is suitable for your own needs:

New Covenant Bible Church has an excellent example of a Spiritual Checklist that you could use or adapt to your personal requirements.

First Baptist Covington provides a "different kind of checklist" that may be another option for you.

Clearly, a spiritual checklist can be modified to whatever your personal preferences might be. Let me also add here that checklists should be used as tools for growth and reflection, and not as a means to judge oneself or others.

I hope that this information will provide you with some tools to help you get the most out of your journey with Jesus Christ. "We can make our plans, but the LORD determines our steps." - Proverbs: 16:9 (NLT)

Scripture: Judges 18:6; Psalm 119:105; Mark 10:17; 1 John 2:6; 3 John 1:6

Prayer: "Dear Lord, help me remain strong in my faith, even when doubts or fears arise. May my heart be filled with love for you and a desire to live a life that pleases you, Amen."

Blessings and peace,

Sandra

Video Lesson | Are You REALLY Growing in Christ?

In this short video lesson, Pastor and Associate Professor at Western Seminary in Santa Clara, California, Dr. Jeff Louie dives deep into the question every Christian should ask themselves: "Are you truly growing in Christ?" 

With over 40 years of ministry experience, Pastor Jeff challenges us to reflect on our spiritual journey and the importance of obedience beyond just attending church. 

© Radical Honesty

Scriptural References: Matthew 10:38-39; John 3:16, 20, 21, 36

📖 Key Takeaways from this video lesson are:

1. The difference between merely attending church and growing in Christ 💡

2. Jesus’ call to pick up our cross and follow Him—are we willing to obey? ✝️

3. Understanding the connection between faith, belief, and obedience 💪

Don't miss this eye-opening message that encourages all believers to take their faith seriously and grow in spiritual maturity!

May God richly bless you,

~Eve

We Must Practice Humility Before God

"Until a man is nothing, God can make nothing of him."  - Martin Luther, German priest and theologian (1483-1546)

As long we are "self-absorbed," or "full of ourselves," we are of no use to the Lord. We are too busy advancing our own "self-interests" to think of anything else. In this frame of mind and heart we are about as open to Him as a clogged sink drain!

There is a fix for this, however, and it is to "humble oneself" or acquire "humility." This means we must place our focus on others and the world around us, instead of our own ego (Philippians 2:3).

In the Bible, "humility" is a divine character trait that includes the absence of pride or arrogance, trusting in God, and valuing others. It's a voluntary choice to recognize our own limitations compared to God, and put others first.

Humility is not diminishing your value, but rather it is a balanced view of oneself before God and others. We must bring a lowliness of mind to the table. Remember, God is the Creator and Sustainer of everything, not us! (Genesis 1:1; Colossians 1:16)

A most important thing about humility is that it is necessary for salvation. Only those who truly humble themselves and place their full trust in God will inherit eternal with Him, and reap the benefits of a hope-filled life on earth.

The humbling of oneself goes against what many have learned and practiced. Some may see it as a sign of weakness or fear. But we are talking about our appearance “in the sight of the Lord,” and not how we appear to others.

In the former case, it requires an empathetic attitude of meekness to humble ourselves in front of God. Mere appearances simply won’t suffice to God, who can peer into our very hearts (1 Samuel 16:7). 

The directive “to humble yourselves in the sight of the Lord” (James 4:10) isn’t just limited to how it affects our relationship with Him. It can also influence decisions in our daily life.

Because of our nature, humility is crucial for a beneficial relationship with God. We must cancel out things like pride and conceit, and set aside personal differences, and consider the needs, feelings, and desires of others instead.

As believers, we are called to “die to self” or relinquish (surrender) our own desires, ambitions, and egos in order to live in harmony with God’s will and the teachings of Jesus Christ (Matthew 16:24; Philippians 2:3-4).

Instead of self-elevation, we can “humble ourselves” in the sight of God and make deliberate choices for the good of others. In this manner, we may serve as a manifestation of who and what Jesus Christ is all about (Colossians 3:17; 2 Corinthians 5:20).

Scripture: Proverbs 11:2; Matthew 18:4; Ephesians 4:2; Philippians 2:3; Colossians 3:12

Prayer: Dear Lord, grant me a humble heart that is open to your guidance, and may I be a blessing to others because of your grace, Amen."

May the grace of God be with you,

Andrea

Weekend Message | Erica Campbell: How To Pursue GOD In Place of PERFECTIONISM | Better Together on TBN

Welcome to the Weekend Message! 

As always, it's our pleasure to bring you quality presentations from some of the best Christian teachers in the world! Each video presentation can vary, but whatever the topic, you can be certain that it will be informative and Bible-based.

This week we present another episode of Better Together on TBN. In this short video presentation, American gospel singer and songwriter Erica Campbell discusses letting go of perfectionism and finding complete freedom in Christ. 

Many of us get so wrapped up in trying to be "perfect" in every way, that God never meant that to be our top priority in life. True spiritual freedom is not found in how perfect we are, but by embracing our God-given identity!

© Better Together on TBN

Join the conversation as Holly Wagner, Hosanna Wong, Meghan Robinson and Elyse Murphy share how to pursue God and the peace He offers. These Spirit-filled ladies have some wonderful insights to share with all of us!

May God richly bless you,

~Eve

Walking By Faith | Walking In His Ways

"They walk in his ways. Habitually, constantly, characteristically. They are not merely honest, upright, and just in their dealings with men; but they walk in the ways of God; they are religious."  - Albert Barnes, American theologian (1798-1870)

The word "walk" and its variants appear 212 times in the King James Bible. Therefore we know that it has some definite significance. Also, we see "walk" most commonly used in Scripture with the word "ways."

When you "walk in God's ways" you are literally following Him in obedience and living your life for Him. One need not look any further than to Jesus Christ for a perfect example of this. He showed that obedience and love go together (Matthew 26:39; John 14:31; Philippians 2:8).

"Walking in God's ways" can incorporate other things as well. We must have a desire to please Him, and coordinate our actions, thoughts, and values with His will and character. In turn, we will grow closer to God and reap the rewards of His guidance.

How do we know if we are walking in God's ways? To truly know if we are on the right path we need a roadmap or guide to direct us. The Bible provides the direction or advice we need (Psalm 119:105).

Walking in God's way characterizes a lifestyle of seeking to know God daily and living a life that is obedient to His will. And Scripture lights our path as it guides our way through this temporal world (Proverbs 6:23).

We must yield our lives to God because of everything He has done for us. In essence, we do what He wants us to do, offering our bodies "as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God," this being "our true and proper worship" (Romans 12:1).

Moreover, it implies that we take pleasure in the Lord, meditate on/study His Word, pray, and learn His will (Psalm 1:1-2; 40:8). In the final analysis, "walking in God's ways" is a figure of speech for following God and living our lives for Him.

Scripture: Genesis 6:9; 2 Corinthians 5:7; Ephesians 5:2; Colossians 2:6; 1 John 2:6

Prayer: "Dear Lord, help me to walk in obedience to all that You have commanded, so that I may live, grow, thrive, and extend my days in You, Amen."

Sincerely with the Grace of God,

Sloane

We Dare Not Doubt!

“Doubting does not prove that a man has no faith, but only that his faith is small. And even when our faith is small, the Lord is ready to help us.”  - John Charles Ryle, English evangelical Anglican bishop (1816-1900)

The Greek verb distazo (διστάζω) is used in the New Testament to define a condition of doubt or skepticism, often in the context of faith or belief. Needless to say, most have experienced doubt in one form or another.

Doubt or uncertainty can freeze us in our tracks if left unchecked. When a situation arises where doubt obstructs our path we can lose confidence and and second-guess ourselves. Naturally, we shouldn't just run headlong into unknown situations. 

That option may only serve to make things worse! Humanity, in general, yearns for certainty and truth. We don't like vagueness and unreliability. Doubt reminds us that life is not perfect, is painful, and can cause negative outcomes.

The solution for doubt, whether one is a new believer or seasoned follower of Jesus Christ, is faith. It cannot be acquired through hopeful optimism, or advice from well-meant friends. Faith is received only by hearing the Word of God (Romans 10:17).

It's understandable in that to have faith in God we must be familiar with what He has said about it. He provided us with his Word as both a testimony and a reason to trust Him today (Psalm 77:11).

Scripture indicates that doubt is destructive and detrimental to our lives (Matthew 14:32-33). But we, as believers, have guidance and support when it comes to dealing with doubt in our lives.

When we have grasped what God has accomplished before, what He has assured us for the present time, and what we can look forward to, we are able to act with confidence and optimism rather than doubt.

Scripture: Proverbs 3:5-8; John 20:29; Hebrews 11:1; James 1:6; Jude 1:22 

Prayer: "Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight."  - Proverbs 3:5-6 (NIV)

May God richly bless you,

~Eve

The Lord Disciplines Those He Loves

"It is never said, "Whom the Lord loveth He enricheth," but it is said, "Whom the Lord loveth he chasteneth."  - Charles H. Spurgeon, English Particular Baptist preacher (1834-1892)

As parents, we are all too familiar with the challenges of raising children. Naturally, the nurturing of children encompasses many things, including training, educating, and disciplining them. 

We, as children of God, can also be subjected to "disciplinary action," or "chastening" by God Our Father, if He so chooses. This, not as a result of anger or spite, but as a loving, caring act to help us grow and develop spiritually.

The Greek word for "chasten" is paideuó (παιδεύω), a verb meaning: to train, to educate, to discipline, to instruct, to correct. Within the framework of the NT, it oftentimes refers to the corrective actions dispensed by God for our spiritual growth and maturity.

This idea is based on the understanding that discipline, though occasionally unpleasant, is a manifestation of love and is ultimately meant to be beneficial to the recipient. 

In the OT, yakach (יָכַח), a Hebrew verb meaning: to reprove, to correct, to argue, to decide, to judge is used, for example, in Proverbs 3:11-12. Here, it underscores the loving nature of God's fatherly discipline.

Many of us don't relish the idea of being reprimanded, disciplined, or chastised for something, even by God. Against our better judgment, we may rebel or dig our heels into the ground when faced with this situation.

The Israelites repeatedly resisted God on numerous occasions. Moses in Numbers 27:12, David in 1 Chronicles 28:3, and Solomon in 1 Kings 11:11 are a few better-known examples from Scripture. All made mistakes, all were disciplined by God.

Did God stop loving Israel or these mighty men from the Bible? No! The discipline He handed out was appropriate for their actions. No more, no less. Regardless of what they did, God always loved them and wanted what was best for them.

When we commit sin, we should anticipate with a degree of certainty that God won't let us get away with it. Thankfully God is infinitely patient and loving. He knows who and what we are better than we do (Psalm 139:1-6).

And though His discipline may seem uncomfortable, it is always done in love and never from hatred. If our hearts are truly repentant for our sinful actions, God will always restore our relationship.

Scripture: Job 5:17; Proverbs 13:1; Romans 12:2; Hebrews 12:11; Revelation 3:19

Prayer: "Dear Lord, help me to understand the lesson You are teaching me through this chastisement. Show me how walk in Your ways and resist temptation., Amen." 

In Christ's Love,

Alissa

Weekend Message | A Psalm of Ascents | The God Who Does It Again | Beth Moore

Welcome to the Weekend Message! 

As always, it's my pleasure to bring you quality presentations from some of the best Christian teachers in the world! Each video presentation can vary, but whatever the topic, you can be certain that it will be informative and Bible-based.

This week we have a brief video presentation by American Anglican evangelist, author, and Bible teacher Beth Moore asks, "Have you been longing for a fresh work of God? The same God who moved mightily before will do it again."

In this message, she walks through the Psalms of Ascents, reminding us that we have not seen the last of the abundance of the Lord. Even when we sow in tears, we will reap with shouts of joy, but only if we plant in faith. There is no harvest for a seed we haven’t sown!

© Living Proof Ministries with Beth Moore

Key Scriptures: Psalm 120-134; Psalm 126:1-6; Psalm 47:5

Here in his brief, but thought-provoking video message Beth Moore reminds us that, "We have not seen the last mighty work of God."

May the Divine Grace Be with You,

~Eve

God Reveals Himself In Many Ways

"If we cooperate with Him in loving obedience, God will manifest Himself to us, and that manifestation will be the difference between a nominal Christian life and a life radiant with the light of His face."  - A.W. Tozer,  American Christian pastor and author (1897-1963)

What comes to mind when you think about the manifestation of God? You might hear someone mention it occasionally, but what is it, and how does it affect us? Honestly, it isn't a subject that gets a whole lot of attention.

Before all else, we should examine the terminology "manifestation of God." This describes the various ways in which God reveals Himself to us, including visibly, tangibly, and evidently (Psalm 19:1-4).

We see this occur many times throughout the Bible, whereby the manifestations of God are used to convey His divine nature, lead His people, and accomplish His redeeming purposes.

If we understand anything about God at all, we know that He is definitely not hidden. He reveals Himself through divine revelation, or in a general sense, the means by which He makes known His truth and knowledge.

This "unveiling" of Himself and His will sheds light on things that were hidden before. There are different ways through which this happens, including: divine inspiration, scripture, and even nature itself (Psalm 95:4-5).

The Bible draws our attention to four principal ways in which God manifests (reveals) Himself to mankind. They are:

• Creation/Nature: Everything that God has created in our world reveals who He is (Romans 1:19-20; Psalm 19:1-4; Job 26:8-9, 14).
• In our hearts and minds: That is, our conscience confirms God's existence. He instills his law on our hearts before we ever hear the Good News (Romans 2:14-15; Ecclesiastes 3:11; Acts 17:27).
• The Person of Jesus Christ: Most are familiar with this one. With the clearest understanding and most meticulous attention to detail, God has manifested Himself to us in the Person of Jesus Christ (John 1:14, 18; 14:9; Colossians 1:15.; Galatians 4:4-5; Hebrews 1:1-2).
• Through Scripture/the Word of God: One of the most exceptional ways for us to discover the person of Jesus is through the Bible (Luke 24:27, 44-45; John 5:39; 2 Peter 1:16-19).

It is crucial that we actively participate with God if we are to reap the full benefits of His manifestation in our lives. We must recognize and trust in His guidance and influence while demonstrating His character in everything we do.

What does this look like? For instance,

• We can recognize God's presence by becoming aware of His work in our lives. Even the simplest, most mundane moments can signify this. Thus, understand and be open to His direction in your life.
• Have belief and trust in God's promises and His capacity to work in your life. This, even if immediate results are not evident. Trust in His plans for you, and place your life in His hands.
• The best line of communication with God is through prayer. Ask for wisdom, guidance, and strength. In this way you may also thank Him for blessings, ask for specific needs, and seek a deeper relationship with Him.

Clearly, this barely begins to deal with the manifestation of God in our lives. The important conclusion from our discussion is that God manifests (reveals) Himself in many ways. 

These include creation, the Bible (His Word), and most importantly through His Son, Jesus Christ. These manifestations stress our special relation with God, who simply wants us to know and worship Him.

Scripture: Psalm 104:24-25; Isaiah 42:5; John 1:3; Romans 1:20; 1 Timothy 4:4

Prayer: "Dear Lord, thank you for your enduring presence in my life. Open my heart so that I may always see You at work during my day. And help me to seek your will and align my life with your purpose, Amen."

Blessings always,

Shelby

Video Message | Sheila Walsh: Testimony of Healing from Clinical Depression | Women of Faith on TBN

We tend think that just because we are vigorous and devoted followers of Jesus Christ, we are immune to the problems and maladies that seem to strike others in the world. This couldn't be further from the truth!

For a great many of us, there have been early experiences that changed us in ways that did not appear until later. Thankfully, we found a compassionate, forgiving, and healing Savior in Jesus Christ (Matthew 11:28-30). 

He does not guarantee that our lives will be trouble-free, or immune from the unceasing assault of a sin-driven world. But He does invite us to give him our burdens and find respite and healing in His loving presence (Psalm 46:1).

© Women of Faith on TBN

In this brief video presentation, author, Bible teacher, and television host Sheila Walsh sits down with Bil Cornelius on TBN's Praise. Listen as she shares her testimony of overcoming the impact of her own child abuse, clinical depression, and self-harming thoughts*. 

"I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world."  - John 16:33 (NIV)

* (Always speak with qualified medical professionals for any mental and/or emotional problems that may persist.)

May God richly bless you,

~Eve

He Is the Source of All Living Waters

"Christ is not a reservoir but a spring. His life is continual, active and ever passing on with an outflow as necessary as its inflow. If we do not perpetually draw the fresh supply from the living Fountain, we shall either grow stagnant or empty, It is, therefore, not so much a perpetual fullness as a perpetual filling."  - A.B. Simpson, Canadian preacher and theologian (1843-1919)

According to the Mayo Clinic, "Water is your body's principal chemical component and makes up about 50% to 70% of your body weight. Your body depends on water to survive. Every cell, tissue and organ in your body needs water to work properly."

Thus, "physical water" is vital to our survival. Without it, we would not last very long. The Bible tells us that there is another type of water that is spiritual nourishment, offered to us for our salvation and restoration through Jesus Christ.

For most of us, we can obtain "physical water" through a variety of sources. But the "water of life" or "living water" through which we receive spiritual nourishment comes to us by only one source, and that is God. There is no other.

And unlike the water we drink, so necessary in this life, the "water of life" offered to us by Jesus Christ has eternal implications. By this I mean our eternal salvation is at stake rather than just our daily survival.

The Bible attests that those who accept this gift of spiritual nourishment will be spared from eternal death. 1 Corinthians 15:20-22 points out that the resurrection of Christ supplies the groundwork for the hopes of the believer.

The term "water of life" is seen in pivotal parts throughout Scripture. However, the one that is probably most familiar is the call for "living water" extended by Jesus Christ to those who understand their spiritual lack and desire spiritual fulfillment in John 7:37-38.

Here are some key points to understand about this "living water" or "water of life":

• It is the Holy Spirit (John 7:39).
• Though Jesus gracefully offers it to all, salvation can only be received by those who believe and trust in Him (John 7:38-39);
• The result of which would be a gift of the Holy Spirit (John 7:39); related to "rivers of living waters" (John 7:38).
• The promise of the Spirit is repeated by Jesus to his disciples in John 16:7-15.
• While the Spirit always takes part in salvation (John 3:5-8), the period of its eternal indwelling would have to wait until the ascension of Jesus into heaven (John 7:39).

Obviously we've only touched upon this profound theme, but how does it relate to us? As was mentioned at the outset, our physical lives depend on our ability to acquire water to drink. Without it, we would quickly perish.

Similarly, our spiritual sustenance depends on our acceptance of the invitation to drink the "living water" offered by Jesus Christ, the sole source. This also serves as a constant reminder of our dependence on the Holy Spirit.

Finally, the "water of life" or "living water" represents the offering of salvation, the manifestation of the Holy Spirit, and the promise of eternal fulfillment that surpasses our physical existence here on earth.

"The Spirit and the bride say, “Come!” And let the one who hears say, “Come!” Let the one who is thirsty come; and let the one who wishes take the free gift of the water of life" (Revelation 22:17).

Scripture: Psalm 42:1; Psalm 63:1; Isaiah 12:3; Amos 5:24; John 4:10

Prayer: "Dear Jesus,  I come before you today, thirsty for your living water. I pray that You will fill me with your Holy Spirit, refresh, strengthen, and empower me to live a life that glorifies you, Amen."

Have a blessed day,

Morgan

Special Presentation | A Mother's Day Message From Beth Moore | 2025

In this special Mother’s Day message, Beth Moore talks about the challenges of motherhood—the opportunities for joy and heartbreak, and our constant failures as humans. Although motherhood is a lot, it’s also so worth it. Take encouragement from Beth as she speaks into your soul today!

© Living Proof Ministries with Beth Moore

The Coffeehouse Bible Ministry would also like to wish a Happy Mother's Day to all mothers wherever you may be around the world. May God bless every one of you!

"Lord Jesus, thank you for the gift of mothers and the love they pour into our lives. Bless all mothers today with strength, peace, and joy. May they feel our gratitude and know the impact they've had on our lives. In your name, we pray. Amen." 

Happy Mother's Day!

The Coffeehouse Bible Ministry

Weekend Message | Toni Collier: How To Seek God's STRENGTH In Our WEAKEST Moments | Better Together on TBN

Welcome to the Weekend Message! 

As always, it's our pleasure to bring you quality presentations from some of the best Christian teachers in the world! Each video presentation can vary, but whatever the topic, you can be certain that it will be informative and Bible-based.

This week we present another episode of Better Together on TBN.  In this brief video presentation, author, speaker, and founder of Broken Crayons Still Color, Toni Collier, examines how to seek God's strength in our weakest moments. 

Toni Collier sets the tone for the discussion when she shares this with the group, "When nothing was left, I found Jesus. What a gift that He is not just a mountaintop God. He's the God of the valleys. Dwelling and walking with us, crawling with us if we need. What a gift that we serve a God who does not make us come up to Him, but He lowers Himself down."

© Better Together on TBN

Scriptural References: Matthew 11:28-30

Make yourself comfortable and join the conversation as Laurie Crouch, Kirsten Watson, Kalley Heiligenthal, and Brittany Price Brooker join Toni Collier for a discussion about the Lord's faithfulness as He turns our trials into testimonies.

 

May God richly bless you,

~Eve

Faith is a Commitment and Trust in God

"Faith is a living, daring confidence in God’s grace, so sure and certain that a man would stake his life on it a thousand times."  -  Martin Luther, German priest, theologian, author (1483-1546)

We hear and read about the word "faith" being frequently tossed about in the current social climate. In fact, the term has almost become a "branding" of sorts; used by some to promote the legitimacy of themselves or their cause.

Beyond all the clamor and distraction, however, you will find the true faith, the God-given faith. It is not a label or tag but rather a gift of God's grace to you and me. Simply applying the word (faith) doesn't do any justice to its purpose and meaning.

Let's go back to the basics for a moment. Hebrews 11:1 (NIV) provides us with an outstanding description of faith, "Now faith is confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see."

We can see from this text that the key feature is confidence (trust) or belief. Thus, as presented in the Bible, we place our trust and belief in God and his promises. Notice the recurrence of "trust" and "belief;" there's good reason for it.

Think of "faith" as having two components. First, there is the mental acknowledgment, or belief in something as valid or real. Secondly, there is a reliance (belief) on the fact that the something is true. 

It's true that many believe certain facts regarding Jesus Christ. Similarly, many will concur (agree) intellectually with what the Bible proclaims about Him, as well. Yet, only presuming those facts to be true misses the intended meaning of "faith."

The scriptural definition of "faith" calls for a form of understanding and agreement, or intellectual assent of the facts. That is, both acknowledging and trusting in them. This is an opportune time to refer back to Hebrews 11:1 (NIV).

Now let's use what we've discussed today. It's insufficient to believe that Jesus Christ, the incarnation of God, was crucified and died for our sins, then was resurrected. James 2:19 (NIV) tells us that "even the demons believe that—and shudder."

We must also take it upon ourselves to acknowledge and trust that Christ died as the atoning sacrifice for our sins. Together they comprise what is called "saving faith" or salvation. Therefore, the faith God demands of us for salvation is:

• belief (trust) in what Scripture tells us who Jesus is, and;
• belief in what He did for us and trust implicitly in Him for that salvation - Acts 16:31 (NIV); together with repentance - Matthew 21:32; Mark 1:15 (NIV).

What we've just talked about the biblical definition of faith and how it extends beyond salvation. It is also generally applicable to the full Christian life. We're to believe and obey what is said in the Bible, believe God's promises, and lead lives that are consistent with these.

Scripture: Luke 11:9-10; John 3:16, 10:10 Romans 12:2; Hebrews 11:6

Prayer: "Dear Lord, help me remember that faith is not only a feeling but a choice to trust in you, even when circumstances seem overwhelming and uncertain. Amen."

May the grace of God be with you,

Andrea

True Restoration With God

"You resemble what you revere, either for ruin or restoration."  - G. K. Beale, Biblical scholar (1949-Present)

Do you feel like you could use a "reset" of your life? Maybe you're dealing with something in your life at this very moment that is slowly consuming you. Health problems, personal issues, family drama, troubles at work, etc., can all take a toll.

And try as you might, you just can't seem to make any progress getting things under control. In fact, they might even be stacking up one on top of the other, until you feel yourself slowly being buried under the oppressing weight.

This is a sad, but all too common tale. Yet, we don't have to let things consume us. I'd like to talk a little about the possibility to "reset" your life through "restoration" offered by God. After all, who better to reset life than He who created it!

Restoration as used in Scripture indicates implies "restarting" to an original or planned state. This is often joined by an increase or regeneration beyond its starting point, which is an additional benefit.

It also includes both physical and spiritual restoration, emphasizing the redemptive work of God in repairing and healing what is broken. Simply put, it is a complete renewal and return to a more abundant and blessed state (Psalm 71:20).

 

We see this happen repeatedly with the nation of Israel in the OT. After many periods of rebellion and punishment, God promised restoration of Israel's land and covenant renewal to Him (Jeremiah 30:17).

In the NT, restoration occurs to a larger extent through the work of the ministry of Jesus. This is characterized by acts of restoration (i.e., healing the sick, raising the dead, and the forgiveness of sins, etc.)

Clearly, the theme of "restoration" is consistently demonstrated throughout the Bible. It serves to show us that God has a plan, a redemptive plan, for all of us, and a strong desire to "renew," or "restore" His creation.

Now, how can one receive “restoration” from God? As I mentioned above, God strongly desires to help us get it. But we must ask Him for it. And it's how we go about it that truly matters.

This entails humbly asking for help through prayer, confessing our sins, and wanting His guidance. It's imperative that we have complete faith and trust in God's plan, even when faced with the most challenging and unpleasant circumstances (Mark 11:24).

As you experience whatever it is that has driven you to this point, remember that restoration isn’t only about reclaiming what was lost. Ultimately, it’s about securing a right relationship with God and harmonizing yourself with His purpose (Jeremiah 29:11).

Scripture: Psalm 51:12; Psalm 71:20-21; Psalm 145:14; 2 Corinthians 5:17; 1 John 5:4

Prayer: "Though you have made me see troubles, many and bitter, you will restore my life again; from the depths of the earth you will again bring me up. You will increase my honor and comfort me once more, Amen."  - Psalm 71:20-21

Blessings and peace,

Sandra

Finding Hope In Christ

"We shall not abide in darkness, although for the moment we sit in it, for our Lord is the fountain of light, and He will soon bring us a joyful day."  - Charles H. Spurgeon, English Particular Baptist preacher (1834-1892)

I'll be the first to admit that it's not any fun when things seem to go wrong in life. And though we may have different experiences, we often share a sense of hopelessness when this occurs.

Even so, it's what we "do" during this period of abiding (dwelling) in darkness (hopelessness) that matters. Some choose to do nothing and leave themselves at the mercy of whatever comes. For many reasons, that's not the best option! (Proverbs 23:18)

During rough times, I've always found comfort in knowing that I can refer to Scripture for examples of others who also went through difficult periods, yet managed to emerge from them stronger than before. Here are a few:

• Hannah (1 Samuel 1:1-20): Her barren womb and the constant torment by Sarah cause her to experience profound anguish and a desperate plea for a child. Despite this, she never fails to seek and worship God. 

• Job (Job 1-42): A righteous man who suffers the loss of family, wealth, and health, raising doubts in his mind about God's justice and his own life. The narrative analyzes adversity and hardship and the essence of God's plan. 

• David (Psalm 6, 13): The Book of Psalms often convey David's intense emotions, including feelings of abandonment, pain, and despair. This provides room for recognizing challenging emotions within the framework of faith.

Stories like these help illustrate the human condition of vulnerability and grappling with hardship and difficult emotions, thus ultimately underscoring God's presence even amid suffering. 

American speaker and Christian author Lysa TerKeurst, said this about hopelessness:

"Take courage. The clouds that cover you this year may be darker than any you have yet known. They may linger long. They may seem to blot out the sun. But God knows how to take even these clouds, and through them work wonders so marvelous, so unlooked for, that they leave us on our knees in worship."

Perhaps the key to this lies within the word "abide." In the Bible, "abide" usually implies to "stay," "remain," or "dwell."  In particular, it pertains to staying connected to Christ by faith and obedience, trusting in His word, and relying on Him for life and strength (Philippians 4:13).

When we "abide in Christ" we continually trust in His Word, obey His commandments, and depend on Him for everything. In this position of faith and reliance we allow His life and power to merge with us, empowering us to develop and prosper (Romans 9:16).

In closing, God offers hope for the future, reminding us that even though trials may be temporary, God's love and faithfulness are eternal. And, He will help us face life's challenges and find strength in our faith. 

Scripture: Psalm 62:5; Isaiah 45:22; John 14:27; Romans 15:13; 1 Peter 5:7

Prayer: "Dear Lord, I need your comfort and peace during troubling times. Help me to remember your love and presence and give me courage to persevere and to trust that you are with me every step of the way, Amen."

Yours in Christ,

Emily