Tag: Jesus Christ

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PLANTED BUT LIFELESS

sparrow perched on bare tree branch in winter

Have you ever wondered why some trees have leaves, beautiful flowers, or berries hanging from them, while others appear lifeless and empty? Lifeless trees may have branches and bare limbs, but appear dull and barren.

I noticed this on my morning walk, which was nothing new, but for some reason, I decided to reflect on what was going on in nature. And how this same effect can happen in the life of a Christian. Several trees appeared sturdy, rooted in the ground, but leafless. Even though they seemed lifeless, fruitfulness was all around.

Now, we are approaching the Fall season, when the leaves on trees begin to change color and fall. However, most trees currently have green leaves and flowers.  While walking, I took out my phone to research why a tree would not have leaves in the summer. I discovered leafless trees could be suffering from drought, stress, bug infestation, fungus, a lack of nutrients, or root problems.

In a nutshell, there could be a “root system” problem that causes the tree to look lifeless.  Now, doesn’t that sound like what can happen in the life of a Christian, anyone, for that matter?  The Lord revealed to me in that very moment that these trees are planted but dead, which can resemble the life of a Christian believer in Jesus Christ. We can also be planted but lifeless.

While observing nature with its lush, green foliage, I began to ask myself these questions.

How is this tree planted?  What is it feeding on? I began to also think about my Christian existence in retrospect to these perishing, decaying trees.  How am I planted in the Lord? Where am I planted to receive nourishment? What am I feeding on? Or better yet, what am I feeding my mind and heart?

To be clear, when I say dead or lifeless, I mean spiritually. Are we bearing fruit, living life to God’s fullest, not living with an empty feeling inside or no purpose toward our calling and the great things God has planned for our lives?

Galatians 5: 22-23 states bearing fruit as love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, gentleness, faithfulness, and self-control. These are all the Fruits of the Spirit. And when we are living a life that is contradictory to the Word of God and our belief system, we can become planted but lifeless.

We’re planted because we believe in Jesus Christ, and we profess Him as our Lord and Savior. However, if our day-to-day life resembles the world, we can begin to feel lifeless, experiencing a sense of emptiness and purposelessness.

Jesus tells us that we are in the world, but not of the world. John 17:14-17 NIV

Paul declares, we must not be conformed to the patterns of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of our minds. Romans 12:1-2 NIV

The world is full of issues that can hinder, obstruct, and distract us from living a life that is submitted, rooted, and grounded in the Word of God.  Just as a lifeless tree with internal root system problems, we can experience internal root issues that will manifest externally. For us, living our own truth or someone else’s will begin to germinate fruit, root system problems, that look like stress, fear, worry, anxiety, comparison, busyness, pride, lust, covetousness —all misplaced truths.

And when we live like the world, or as scripture states, “of” the world, we become disconnected with the Holy Spirit that dwells within us.

As believers in Jesus Christ, we must be resolute in standing firm and steadfast in the Lord. We can stand among other believers, gaining strength, comfort, and encouragement, knowing that we all face similar issues but can persevere as one body. 1 Peter 5:9 NIV

We need to seek an existence “Planted with Life!” What is Planted with Life? It’s living what you believe in, Jesus Christ, every single day. Lysa Terkeurst quoted C. S.  Lewis, who said, “Relying on God has to begin all over again every day as if nothing had yet been done (Trustworthy Bible Study pg. 25).” We must plant the Word of God and His Character in our heart and mind daily because life will happen, but that doesn’t mean that what’s going on externally has to impact us internally.

Planted Life is:

  • Fellowship with Jesus Christ.
  • Fellowship with the body of believers.
  • Meditating every day on the Word of God.
  • Being led by the Holy Spirit.
  • Submission to the Will of God.
  • Living with godly wisdom, understanding, and discernment.
  • Godly peace in the world because you know that HE is in control.
  • Living through the Fruits of the Spirit.
  • Being OK with your identity in Jesus Christ! Psalms 1: 1-3 NIV

So today, let’s take the time to see if we are planted but lifeless or Planted with Life. Check your root system to observe what is causing you to live as you do.

Let the Word of God transform your thoughts, mind, and heart so that anything that is not of God’s nature, character, or spoken Word to you will infiltrate your life.

Jesus is our life. John 15: 1-17 NIV

Jesus is our bread of life. John 6:35 NIV

God is our source. 1 Corinthians 8:6 NIV

Be blessed and planted in the Mighty name of Jesus Christ, Amen!

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GOD WITH US

woman wearing trench coat walking near a wall

In the book of Deuteronomy, Moses reiterates all the words, laws, decrees, and commands God spoke to the first generation of Israelites. The second generation would be expected to follow the Word of God and advance forward to receive the Promised Land. Chapter 19, verse 1 reads, “When the Lord your God has destroyed the nations whose land he is giving you, and when you have driven them out…” God is telling the Israelites that He will be with them and how to set cities aside for refuge. 

However, reading this first verse, I realized how God establishes a “two-fold” relationship between Himself and Israel. God is establishing a relationship that illustrates His authority and power with their calling, purpose, and assignment—ultimately, “godly living!” God’s character in His relationship with Israel is no different from that of the Christian believer today.  

grayscale photo of mother kissing her baby

As a chosen nation by God, Israel’s assignment was to take possession of the Promised Land that was spoken in covenant years ago to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. This covenant would come to fruition centuries later as Moses addressed the people with God’s spoken word from four decades ago. Verse 1 of Deuteronomy 19 says, “God destroyed the nations, and the Israelites drove them out.”

  • God does the work; We obey, according to His Word!
  • God will be with you; You are not alone! 
  • God gets the glory; We get the victory!
  • God gives; We receive as we obey!
  • God is a promise keeper, even when we fail to keep our promise!

To continue strengthening the Israelites in preparation for battle, Moses reminded the people of God’s dominion, power, authority, and promise. Deuteronomy 20:1 states, “When you go to war against your enemies, and see horses and chariots, and an army greater than yours, do not be afraid of them, because the Lord your God, who brought you up out of Egypt, will be with you.” God tells the Israelites do not allow what you “see” to cause you to become fainthearted or afraid. Fear influences our hearts, thoughts, and actions. But God wanted the Israelites to trust, obey, and follow His commands. And this is the same mindset that Jesus Christ has for us today.  

Jesus tells us not to assume what we “see” is our reality. Yes! Your circumstance is real, but this is not your identity, future, fate, or life. God told the Israelites, “Do Not Be Afraid,” and I say that to you today as you allow the Holy Spirit to lead you – “Do Not Be Afraid!” 

Israel would SEE according to the Bible:

  • The Enemy
  • Horses
  • Chariots
  • Army

For us, it could be:

  • The enemy – attacks/tricks of deception
  • Physical/Mental/Emotional – problems, hurt
  • Financial instability – job loss, lack of resources, debt
  • Relationships – People (family, associations, friends)

We “see” these issues and assume this is our reality, believing our situation will never change. BUT GOD! The circumstances you are dealing with are not forever. Everything happens and ends at an appointed time. “There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens:” Ecclesiastes 3:1 NIV  Remember that if God delivered you before, He will do it again. 

God reminded the Israelites of how He saved them in Egypt. God is faithful, He doesn’t change, and His Word doesn’t return void but accomplishes what He set it to do.

  • God is Faithful!

“Lord, you are my God; I will exalt you and praise your name, for in perfect faithfulness you have done wonderful things, things planned long ago.” Isaiah 25:1 NIV

  • God doesn’t Change!

“But you remain the same, and your years will never end.” Psalms 102:27 NIV

“Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever.” Hebrews 13:8 NIV

  • God’s Word doesn’t return void!

“so is my word that goes out from my mouth: It will not return to me empty, but will accomplish what I desire and achieve the purpose for which I sent it.” Isaiah 55:11 NIV

So, remind yourself daily that “GOD IS WITH ME” when you follow His lead. And when you fall short, He will correct your course! GOD IS WITH YOU! How do I know God is with you and me as Christians today? Because He gave His one and only Son for you and me. 

  • God loved you before there was a You!
  • God saved you before there was a You!
  • Jesus died for you before there was a You!
  • God desires to dwell with You as You exist now!

“For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life. For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him.” John 3:16-17 NIV

So, no matter what it looks like—enemies, horses, chariots, or an army greater than you—as was the Israelites, whatever that situation is in your life, “DO NOT BE AFRAID!” GOD WILL BE WITH YOU! Let this weekend of the Life, Death, and Resurrection of Jesus Christ, the ultimate sacrifice, remind you that GOD IS WITH YOU!

~Be Blessed and receive His Peace in the Mighty name of Jesus Christ! Amen

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GOD GOES BEFORE YOU

“The Lord your God himself will cross over ahead of you. He will destroy these nations before you, and you will take possession of their land. Joshua also will cross over ahead of you, as the Lord said.” Deuteronomy 31:3 NIV

 “The Lord himself goes before you and will be with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged.” Deuteronomy 31:8 NIV

What confidence we have in Jesus Christ! The bold confidence we can have in Jesus Christ was my thought while reading the last chapters of Deuteronomy. In the previous chapters, Moses instructed the Israelites to cross over the Jordan River and take possession of the Promised Land. 

In Moses’ instructions, he states that God has said He will go before the Israelites and destroy the residing nations. God will “fight the battle” and “make preparation” before the Israelites move forward.

How “Awesome” is knowing that God will not only go before us but also make us successful. All He asks is that we LISTEN and OBEY to His WORD. 

When I read God’s Word on this day, what became apparent to me is that God will not only fight your battles and give you victory, but also God has planned our purpose and destination. Therefore, if we have confidence and assurance from God that He has planned our way, we can pursue that obstacle or desire with tenacity and boldness. 

“I know what they are disposed to do, even before I bring them into the land I promised them on oath.” Deuteronomy 31:21 NIV

“I will lead the blind by ways they have not known, along unfamiliar paths I will guide them; I will turn the darkness into light before them and make the rough places smooth. These are the things I will do; I will not forsake them.” Isaiah 42:16 NIV

The ending chapters of Deuteronomy illustrate how God went before the Israelites. God put the other nations in fear of the Israelites. The residing inhabitants were made aware of the power and greatness of God! 

“I know that the Lord has given you this land and that a great fear of you has fallen on us, so that all who live in this country are melting in fear because of you.” Joshua 2:9 NIV

“When we heard of it, our hearts melted in fear and everyone’s courage failed because of you, for the Lord your God is God in heaven above and on the earth below.” Joshua 2:11 NIV

Our Heavenly Father is so Powerful!!! God knows and can influence the hearts and minds of any human being because He created us. Therefore, believers in Jesus Christ should seek God willingly and daily so that we can walk in the path HE has graced for us, knowing without a shadow of a doubt that God has gone before us. 

 God goes before us, so we do not have to stress out!

 God goes before us, so we do not worry our minds thinking about the “how”!

 God goes before us because He knows and has established the right way!

 God goes before us, and His instructions tell us “what” to do!

 So, when thinking about your obstacle, next move, or plans, do not let it consume your mind or cause distress because God has already worked it out! Seek and you will find!!! (Matthew 7:7 NIV)

“You will keep in perfect peace those whose minds are steadfast, because they trust in you. Trust in the Lord forever, for the Lord, the Lord himself, is the Rock eternal.” Isaiah 26:3-4 NIV

 “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” Jeremiah 29:11 NIV

Be Blessed, and Keep your eyes on Jesus, your Lord and Savior! Amen

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TAKE POSSESSION

“He also said to him, “I am the Lord, who brought you out of Ur of the Chaldeans to give you this land to take possession of it.”  Genesis 15:7 NIV

What has God given you possession of? In this scripture, God tells Abram that He has brought him out of Ur of the Chaldeans to give him a greater land and future to take possession of. What specifically caught my attention were the words “give you” and “take possession”! 

So, what has God given you possession of?

What vision or desire has God given you but you have not taken possession of it? 

What is holding you back from receiving what God has for you?

I sometimes let fear, worry, doubt, laziness, or unpreparedness hinder my progress and motivation from possessing what God has already prepared for me! 

Sometimes things are easier said than done in our actions, but God is not an average, ordinary God. He can do exceedingly, abundantly more than we ask or think. 

 “Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us,” Ephesians 3:20 NIV

There is nothing we can’t do with God’s guidance, direction, protection, provision, and love. Scripture reminds us that His Power works within us; therefore, we cannot fail with God on our side. What God has given you, you have the authority and permission to take possession of it. 

When God told Abram to take possession, that meant there had to be an action, movement, step, or position on the part of Abram. For Abram to receive it, he had to Believe in faith! And we are no different!!!

The step we take physically and/or spiritually demonstrates our “Trust” and “Faith” in God to move on our behalf. Do you believe? Have you moved? 


“But Jesus immediately said to them: “Take courage! It is I. Don’t be afraid.” “Lord, if it’s you,” Peter replied, “tell me to come to you on the water.” “Come,” he said. Then Peter got down out of the boat, walked on the water and came toward Jesus.” Matthew 14:27-29 NIV

“According to your faith let it be done to you” Matthew 9:29 NIV

“For we walk by faith, not by sight.” 2 Corinthians 5:7 NKJV

“Now faith is confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see.” Hebrews 11:1 NIV

So, what has God given you possession of? Abide in Him, Trust Him, and Move in faith with assurance to receive your God-given promise!

Be Blessed in the Glorified name of Jesus Christ, Amen~

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AT JUST THE RIGHT TIME

“You see, at just the right time, when we were still powerless, Christ died for the ungodly.” Romans 5:6,  NIV

“At just the right time!” These five simple words caught my attention and captivated my heart and mind. 

Everything God does is On Purpose, With Purpose, and For Purpose. God is an on-time God! In the heavenly realm, God does not keep up with a watch or clock, but we allow “time” to influence our actions, thoughts, and decisions here on earth.

“But do not forget this one thing, dear friends: With the Lord a day is like a thousand years, and a thousand years are like a day.” (2 Peter 3:8) NIV

Simple but profound, these five words compel me to submit my will for God’s Will. 

I say this because “at just the right time,” Christ entered the world through the Virgin Mary. 

“At just the right time,” Christ died for our sins so that we may receive grace and mercy. 

“At just the right time,” Christ rose from the dead and is living and interceding for us at the right hand of God. So, at just the right time, God will make a way for you and me! 

“Forget the former things; do not dwell on the past. See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it? I am making a way in the wilderness and streams in the wasteland.” (Isaiah 43:18–19) NIV

Hence, everything on earth lives, moves, breathes, and has its being “at just the right time!” Nothing on earth happens unless it is spoken into manifestation by God. In the creation story, God said, 

“Let there be light, and there was light.”

“Let there be a vault between the waters to separate the sky from the water.”

“Let the water be gathered to one place so the dry ground can appear.” 

“Let the land produce vegetation: seed-bearing plants and trees on the land…” 

“Let there be lights in the vault of the sky to separate the day from the night…”

“Let the water teem with living creatures, and let birds fly above the earth across the vault of the sky.”

“Let the land produce living creatures according to their kinds: the livestock, the creatures that move along the ground, and the wild animals, each according to its kind.” 

“Let us make mankind in our image, in our likeness…”

“God saw all that He had made, and it was very good. And there was evening, and there was morning—the sixth day.”

God blessed them, and God has blessed YOU! You have a purpose; you have worth, and you are valuable to your Heavenly Father. He created you “at just the right time!” (Genesis 1:3, 6, 9, 11, 14, 20, 24, 26, 28–29, 31) NIV

Therefore, the creation story is enough to know that God is in control and everything will happen in your life “at just the right time.” So, whether you are worried, stressed, frustrated, weary, feared, disappointed, or any other negative emotion, do not succumb to those feelings and ways of thinking. God is with you and will deliver you “at just the right time!” 

“For it is God who works in you to will and to act in order to fulfill His good purpose.” (Philippians 2:13) NIV

Prayer

Omnipotent God, who knows everything, thank you for knowing what is best for me and when the timing is right. I surrender to your Will and lay my burdens at your feet, believing that at just the right time, you will deliver, save, guide, protect, and provide for me. In Jesus Christ’s Name. Amen~

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Stay On Course

When I woke up this morning, I was in decision mode—reflecting on life’s obstacles and struggling to make the right decisions. It was time to run!!! Instead of running on the main road this morning, I decided to run on the trail. The trail always helps to clear my head and give me an objective perspective.

On the trail, I get to feel the cool breeze flowing through the trees. There are sections of sunlight and shade to protect me from the smoldering heat. The creek runs alongside the paved road with flowing water that streams down the rocks. And the sound of falling water provides a tranquil atmosphere that calms my mind. As I run, birds, squirrels, and rabbits are actively engaging in their natural habitat. What a beautiful view! 

As I ran on the trail, observing the formation of the path, God spoke these words to my heart “Stay On Course!” He revealed that I’m on a paved road with specific (mapped out) destinations as I run on the trail, but when I look to the right or the left, I see the untamed forest. If I go to the right or the left, I end up in the woods. There’s a possibility of running into wild animals, snakes, swap areas, or poison ivy in the woods. Venturing into the forest can prolong my journey by altering my course. However, when I stay on the paved trail, it’s as if I am walking a road that was laid out just for me, minimizing the unforeseen dangers. 

God revealed that our life’s journey is no different. According to His Will, when we stay on course, we receive grace, mercy, favor, provision, and peace on our journey. But the detours that we “choose” often promote anxiety, stress, confusion, delay, and discouragement.

“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

So today, as I choose to let God lead me in the right decisions and stay on His course, join me in trusting in the Lord, living with unwavering faith to believe that God will supply all your needs. 

“And my God will meet all your needs according to the riches of his glory in Christ Jesus.” Philippians 4:19 NIV

In the Mighty name of Jesus Christ, Amen ~

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Many Members One Body

During Springtime, life begins to bloom and blossom! All creation becomes vivacious from flying insects, leaves on trees, furry walking friends, singing birds, busy people, and a host of other springtime fevers.

Also, during this time, school comes to an end an outdoor activity begins. I have started enjoying the warm weather and the scenery of flourishing life. One day while thinking about the last days of school and my final Bible lesson, I began to look up and notice this beautiful blossoming tree.

This tree sheds its leaves during the winter, but as I gazed at the blue sky, shimmering water, and the blessing of this beautiful day, the fullness of the tree caught my eye. Observing the leaves on the tree made me think about my Bible lesson – Many Members One Body.

For the past week, I taught the kids that we are many members- diverse people but one body being believers in Jesus Christ. However, as I thought about this lesson and studied the tree, the tree’s appearance became symbolic.

A tree’s typical characteristic is to have one main trunk with many branches that stem from the trunk. The branches are of various sizes and lengths with numerous leaves, pinecones, and/or berries. As I examined this one tree, I began to look at other trees noticing their differences. But the apparent similarity was the trunk.

As a diverse inhabitant, we are many members but one body! As humans, there are varied races, cultures, languages, appearances, abilities – thus many members. As believers in Jesus Christ, there is only one God- our vine and life source. “I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing.” John 15:5 NIV 

Looking just below the tree were branches that had broken off and were lying on the ground. Scripture tells us that we cannot bear fruit if we do not remain in the vine.

The branches that had broken off were no longer bearing fruit!

They were dry and brittle, no longer alive!

They were no longer growing!

They no longer had a thriving existence!

As Christians, our existence is the same as a tree. A disconnect from God is a disconnect from the One Body! Though branches may fall, the trunk of the tree stands firm and tall giving constant life. “But blessed is the one who trusts in the Lord, whose confidence is in him. They will be like a tree planted by the water that sends out its roots by the stream. It does not fear when heat comes; its leaves are always green. It has no worries in a year of drought and never fails to bear fruit.” Jeremiah 17:7-8 NIV

Do not be a fallen branch. God loves you and desires to guide, protect, and provide for you. His help is just a personal relationship away. “I will say of the Lord, “He is my refuge and my fortress, my God, in whom I trust.” Psalms 91:2 NIV

So, my friends, as we begin to enjoy this warm weather and become more active outdoors, stay connected to Jesus like a branch to a tree. Look at what HE has created with each new day. Notice the existence and breath of life in all things. But be the image-bearers of the One True God. We are salt and light, many members of one family. Different in nature but identical in Jesus Christ.

Be Blessed in the Mighty name of Jesus Christ! ~ Amen

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Fall at HIS Feet

“When Mary reached the place where Jesus was and saw him, she fell at his feet and said, “Lord, if you had been here, my brother would not have died.” John 11:32 NIV

For the past two months, I’ve been reading a devotion on the Book of John, and yesterday I got the chance to meditate on the story of Lazarus. Martha and Mary sent a message to Jesus that Lazarus was sick; however, Jesus decided to stay in his present location for two more days instead of leaving immediately. As Jesus arrives at Bethany, where Mary, Martha, and Lazarus live, many people inform Him that Lazarus has died.

Now with all the miracles Jesus performed, raising Lazarus from the dead would not be a challenging task. Jesus, all-knowing, informed the disciples that Lazarus was dead, but he would be raised from his sleep (John 11:14 NIV). Therefore in reading these verses, I was prepared to hear how Jesus raised Lazarus from the dead. However, what illuminated from the scripture was a gesture that I needed to take to heart. A characteristic of God that beckons His presence, His provision, and His miraculous power.

God drew my attention to Mary falling at the feet of Jesus. In Mary’s anguish, hurt, and discouragement, she still fell at the feet of Jesus when she saw Him.

Mary, who loved and followed Jesus!

Mary, who poured perfume on Jesus’ feet and wiped it with her hair! John 12:3 NIV

Mary, who believed that Jesus could heal her brother from any sickness! John 11:3 NIV

Mary, who dropped everything to sit at the feet of Jesus listening to Him teach while Martha was busy doing other chores! Luke 10:39–40 NIV

When you are in pain, discouraged, stressed, or anguished, do you fall at the feet of Jesus Christ?

When your back is up against the wall with various trials and storms, do you fall at the feet of Jesus Christ?

When you don’t know where to turn or go, do you fall at the feet of Jesus Christ?

When your skills, abilities, and talents don’t produce favorable outcomes, do you fall at the feet of Jesus Christ?

As I read Lazarus’ story, God revealed that He desires His children to fall at the feet of Jesus in times of clarity or confusion, success or failure, test or trial, righteousness or sin.

Even in a pandemic as we see lives and jobs lost, uncertainty, isolation, and separation, our help and hope is in the Lord. So, as you go about your day, remember to fall at the feet of Jesus because He cares for you.

“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.” Matthew 11:28-30 NIV

Scripture tells us when Mary, crying, fell at the feet of Jesus, He not only felt her pain but also acted on it. He performed a miracle that no human could do. He resurrected Lazarus from the dead, and He can do the same for you! Whatever your circumstance, God can resurrect it! When you fall at the feet of Jesus in a submission posture, you give up the human effort for supernatural resurrection power.

“Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.” 1 Peter 5:7 NIV

In the Mighty name of Jesus Christ, Amen ~

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Whose Interaction Do You Seek?

Today we are living in times of unfamiliarity and lack of normalcy. Our nation has been struck with the devastation of sickness and loss, causing fear, worry, doubt, uncertainty, anxiousness, and isolation. However, during this time of insecurity and human quarantine, I have chosen to spend more time with God, family, and nature. 

Today as I walked through the neighborhood because the local trials are closed, I stopped to talk to an older man who was checking his mail. I said, “Good morning, how are you doing,” and he said, “good morning to you too!” He asked me how I was feeling, and I said, “Great,” then I asked him the same question. However, his response to how he was feeling intrigued me because it signified what every person is feeling right now! He said, “BORED!”

Now, his response is not peculiar, but I was not expecting that to be his answer. He was an older man, which I assumed would enjoy the slow pace of life, but how quickly I learned that boredom has no respect of age! I laughed and told him, “me too, but God’s in control.” He said, “You’re right,” and we parted ways.

Now, as I continued walking and thinking about our conversation, the word “human interaction” came to mind. The older man was probably tired of being confined to his home and missing human interaction, as we all are experiencing. His response was a natural, valid response for this day and time, which we are living due to social distancing.

But, God spoke to me immediately, saying replace your human interaction with spiritual interaction. In this time of being alone and isolated from work, school, extended family, and extracurricular activities, God desires to have spiritual interaction with His children. As a society, we’ve replaced spiritual interaction with human interaction placing God at the end of our day, if at all. Human interaction is visible and tangible, and as inhabitants who place more value on what we see, God requires us to seek Him!

Adam and Eve saw the desirable fruit on the tree – “When the woman saw that the fruit of the tree was good for food and pleasing to the eye, and also desirable for gaining wisdom, she took some and ate it. She also gave some to her husband, who was with her, and he ate it.” Genesis 3:6 NIV https://www.bible.com/111/gen.3.6.niv

But God tells us- “Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you. For everyone who asks receives; the one who seeks finds; and to the one who knocks, the door will be opened.” Matthew 7:7-8 NIV https://www.bible.com/111/mat.7.7-8.niv 

So, in this time of lack of human interaction, spend time with God. Seek to increase your spiritual interaction with your Heavenly Father! 

He longs to hear from you!  

He longs to commune with you!

He longs to free you!

He wants to give you life abundantly more than you can think or ask!

“The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I came that they may have life, and have it abundantly.” John 10:10 NASB https://www.bible.com/100/jhn.10.10.nasb

Peace, Joy, and Happiness from boredom are just a spiritual interaction away! 

Be blessed, in the Precious name of Jesus Christ ~ Amen 

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God is a God of Timing

“He made known to us the mystery of his will according to his good pleasure, which he purposed in Christ, to be put into effect when the times reach their fulfillment—to bring unity to all things in heaven and on earth under Christ.”  Ephesians 1:9-10 NIV

https://www.bible.com/bible/111/eph.1.9-10.niv

In Chapter 1 of Ephesians, Paul is speaking to the people of Ephesus, the newfound Christian believers in Jesus Christ.  Paul is reminding them that they are a chosen people predestined to accomplish good works for God!

As Paul shared this message over 2000 years ago with the people of Ephesus, this same message is prevalent for today’s Christian.  As I was reading verse 9 & 10, God gave me a fresh perspective that I had not thought before.  What caught my attention was the phrase, “to be put into effect when the times reach their fulfillment.”  

My first thought was that God is a God of timing!  Whatever God plans to accomplish, it brings all things and people into fulfillment.  God’s plan does not just touch one individual but many.

My second thought was, “What am I trying to accomplish alone?”  “What am I trying to make happen but God is saying, “Not yet?”  MY plan has not reached fulfillment!  So, how is your current situation causing you to become anxious and make moves God did not design for you to make? 

“All the believers were together and had everything in common.  Every day they continued to meet together in the temple courts. They broke bread in their homes and ate together with glad and sincere hearts, praising God and enjoying the favor of all the people. And the Lord added to their number daily those who were being saved.”  Acts 2:44, 46-47 NIV

https://www.bible.com/bible/111/act.2.44,46-47.niv

God added to the believers’ daily- unity! God caused the multitude- increase!  God bestowed the people with favor – fulfillment!

Let’s look at what fulfillment means – achievement, completion, realization (dictionary.com).

This tells me that when God has decided that the “time has come” according to His Will, fulfillment of His plan in your life will happen.  And, when this happens “unity” between earthly and heavenly realms will also take place. 

So, whatever you are discouraged about job, spouse, child, relationship, finances, health, loss, betrayal, or anything know that in God’s timing ALL things will come under His fulfillment for the good of God.   

“Your heavenly Father knows that you need them. But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.”  Matthew 6:32-33 NIV https://www.bible.com/bible/111/mat.6.32-33.niv

Jesus Christ came into this world at the proper time to redeem every living soul.  He was predestined for this task just as you and I are predestined for our task.   And, what you are purposed to do will come to fruition as long as you trust, believe, and let God lead.  

My friend, remember that when God plans to transform your life, it will not only be at the right time but also change the lives of others invoking unity and oneness. 

“My prayer is not for them alone. I pray also for those who will believe in me through their message, that all of them may be one, Father, just as you are in me and I am in you. May they also be in us so that the world may believe that you have sent me?”  John 17:20-21 NIV

https://www.bible.com/bible/111/jhn.17.20-21.niv

Be Blessed in Jesus Christ name, Amen! ~