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  • Quebrantada pero no derrotada (Broken but not Defeated)

    Quebrantada pero no derrotada (Broken but not Defeated)

    El sacrificio que sí deseas es un espíritu quebrantado; Tú no rechazarás un corazón quebrantado y arrepentido, oh Dios. Salmo 51:17 NTV

    Cuando escuchamos la palabra “quebrantamiento”, inmediatamente imaginamos algo que no se puede arreglar: un cobarde, alguien que tiene un complejo de inferioridad o alguien que tiene baja autoestima. Me he aferrado a estas mentiras durante muchos años. Pero el Señor me ha mostrado el significado de lo que es el verdadero quebrantamiento. Según el Salmo 51:17:

    El sacrificio que sí deseas es un espíritu quebrantado; Tú no rechazarás un corazón quebrantado y arrepentido, oh Dios.

    He enfrentado muchas pruebas y tormentas en mi vida. Recibí una factura esta semana que no esperaba. Fui víctima de fraude de identidad hace dos meses. Cuando creí que todo parecía estar en orden, el banco me envió una carta informándome que el dinero que me acreditaban producto de la estafa no era válido y que necesitaba devolverlo. Lloré y me enojé. Me quejé ante el Señor, diciéndole lo injusto que era ser responsable de algo que no había hecho. ¡Yo fui la víctima!

    El Señor me recordó a Gedeón hoy mientras leía el Salmo 51:17 durante mi tiempo devocional con Jesús. Gedeón se enfrentó a un ejército y pensó que no había manera de derrotarlos con sólo un pequeño número de soldados. Dios le dio a Gedeón la oportunidad de testificar que sería el poder de Dios, no su propia fuerza ni la de su ejército, lo que le permitiría ganar la batalla. (Ver Jueces 7:2)

    Y Jacob, el poderoso que llegó a ser el padre de las 12 tribus de Israel. Dios tuvo que romper con la autosuficiencia de Jacob antes de que pudiera convertirse en “Israel”.

    ¿Qué tal Moisés? Se le conoce como el salvador de Israel. El príncipe de Egipto pasó 40 años como pastor en el desierto, aprendiendo a dejar a un lado su orgullo y someterse a Dios. Sólo entonces Moisés pudo presentarse ante el Faraón y realizar los milagros que mostraban el poder de Dios.

    Amigos, si están pasando por un momento difícil, anímense. Aveces Dios nos permite enfrentar dificultades e incluso tocar fondo. Y es en medio de una tormenta que podemos ver a Dios tal como Él realmente es: el Dios que nos ama y nos creó a propósito y con un propósito. Después de la tormenta, Él nos restaurará para convertirnos en la persona para la que Él nos creó.

    Recordemos las palabras de Pablo:

    Por todos lados nos presionan las dificultades, pero no nos aplastan. Estamos perplejos pero no caemos en la desesperación.  Somos perseguidos pero nunca abandonados por Dios.Somos derribados, pero no destruidos. 2 Corintios 4:8-9 NTV

    Padre, gracias por Tu amor, misericordia y gracia. Gracias por nunca dejarme sola cuando toco fondo. Perdóname por las muchas veces que me quejo, pensando en lo injusto que es, y las muchas veces que me enfrento a una tormenta. Señor, gracias por esas tormentas, porque a través de ellas, Tú me estás moldeando, quitándome esas cosas molestas que me impiden ser verdaderamente quien Tú me creaste para ser. Porque Tú eres la roca en el fondo del abismo que me sostiene y me sacarás con Tu poder. Eres mi roca, mi redentor y el amante de mi alma. ¡Te amo, Señor! En Tu nombre te doy gracias, amén.

     

    Referencia

    Traductor: Jesus Manuel Perez

    La Santa Biblia, Nueva Traducción Viviente. (1996). Wheaton, IL: Fundación Tyndale House.

     

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  • Broken But Not Defeated

    Broken But Not Defeated

    “The sacrifice you desire is a broken spirit. You will not reject a broken and repentant heart, O God.” Psalm 51:17 NLT

     

    When we hear the word ‘brokenness,’ we immediately picture something that can’t be fixed: a wimp, someone with an inferiority complex, or someone with low self-esteem. I’ve held onto these lies for many years. But the Lord has shown me the meaning of what true brokenness is.

    According to Psalm 51:17, “The sacrifice you desire is a broken spirit. You will not reject a broken and repentant heart, O God.”

    I have faced many trials and storms in my life. I received a bill this week that I wasn’t expecting expected. I was a victim of identity fraud two months ago. When I believed everything seemed to be in order, the bank sent me a letter informing me that the money they credited me as a result of the scam was invalid and that I needed to return it. I cried and became angry. I complained to the Lord, telling Him how unfair it was to be held responsible for something I hadn’t done. I was the victim!

    The Lord brought Gideon to mind to me today as I read Psalm 51:17 during my quiet time with Jesus. Gideon faced an army and thought there was no way he could defeat them with just a small number of soldiers. God allowed Gideon the opportunity to witness that it would be God’s power, not his own strength or his army’s, that would allow him to win the battle. (See Judges 7:2)

    And Jacob, the mighty one who became the father of the 12 tribes of Israel. God had to break Jacob of his self-sufficiency before he could become “Israel.”

    How about Moses? He is known as the savior of Israel. The prince of Egypt spent 40 years as a shepherd in the wilderness, learning to put aside his pride and submit to God. Only then was Moses able to appear before Pharaoh and perform the miracles that displayed God’s power.

    Friends, if you are facing a difficult time, be encouraged. Sometimes, God allows us to face difficulties and even hit rock bottom. And it is in the midst of a storm that we are able to see God for Whom He really is—the God who loves us and created us on purpose and for a purpose. He will restore us to become the person He created us to be after the storm.

    We may appear broken, but we are not defeated. “But you belong to God, my dear children. You have already won a victory over those people, because the Spirit who lives in you is greater than the spirit who lives in the world.” 1 John 4:4 NLT

    Let us remember Paul’s words, “We are pressed on every side by troubles, but we are not crushed. We are perplexed but not driven to despair. We are hunted down but never abandoned by God. We get knocked down, but we are not destroyed.” (2Corinthians 4:8-9)

     

    Father, thank You for Your love, mercy, and grace. Thank You for never leaving me alone when I hit rock bottom. Forgive me for the many times I complain, thinking how unfair it is, and the many times I face a storm. Lord, thank You for those storms, for through them, You are shaping me, pruning me off those pesky things that stop me from truly being who You created me to be. Because You are the rock at the bottom of the pit that sustains me, and You will bring me out with Your power. You are my rock, my redeemer, and the lover of my soul. I love You, Lord! In Your name, I thank you, amen.

     

    Reference

    The Holy Bible, New Living Translation. (1996). Wheaton, IL: Tyndale House Foundation.

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  • Consequences Of Not Knowing How to Handle Your Anger.

    Consequences Of Not Knowing How to Handle Your Anger.

    And “don’t sin by letting your anger control you. Don’t let the sun go down while you are still angry” (Ephesian 4:26 New Living Translation)

     

    When I was younger, I recall my grandmother always telling my siblings and I, right before we went to bed, not to let the sun go down while we were angry. As a child, I didn’t realize she was trying to teach us something; I assumed it was part of her evening prayers.

    Of course, her words remained in my heart for years, even today. I can still clearly recall a day when my late husband became quite angry at me. He was a law student who didn’t believe in tardiness. On the other hand, I was and still am notorious for being late. I won’t bore you with a long story, so I will give you the gist.

    We were supposed to meet for a quick lunch during his 30-minute break. I was studying for an exam and didn’t realize the passing of time. I had only 15 minutes left to meet my husband. I hurried to get us lunch. Unfortunately, the line was very long, and by the time I arrived at the school, his 30-minute break was over. I was 45 minutes late. He was so angry that he threw the lunch tray at me and walked away; he left me in the cafeteria, literally covered in food.

    So why am I sharing this story with you? Although I didn’t understand why he was so angry at the time, I remembered my grandmother’s words. When he arrived home, I apologized for being late and told him we should not let the sun go down while we were still upset. At the time, he wasn’t a Christian, so he couldn’t understand the importance of not letting the sun go down in our anger. His anger and disappointment persisted for a while as a result. But I didn’t give up. I continued to pray and made an effort to clear up the misunderstanding. It took a long time before my husband understood the importance of forgiveness and learned to let go of things. But only Jesus was able to change him, and He did.

    My emotions were all over the place today. My heart was filled with anger and unforgiveness towards a family member. I spent the entire day feeling like a volcano, ready to erupt.

    As I was prepared to go to bed and read Ephesians 4:26, the Lord reminded me of my grandmother’s words, “And “don’t sin by letting your anger control you. Don’t let the sun go down while you are still angry.”

    Anger is like poison. You can’t shake it off no matter what you try to do; it consumes you from the inside out. Two things occur when we don’t know how to control our anger. According to the devotional Forgiven- Freedom from Your Past, Faith for Your Future- 90 Days,

    1. “You stay angry. You walk around with your thermostat at boiling point.
    2. You don’t get angry even when it’s appropriate. Consequently, issues that could build character create indecision and indifference.” (P.22)

    We must be able to express our anger properly. In Matthew 18:15, Jesus taught us how to handle our anger,

    “If another believer sins against you, go privately and point out the offense. If the other person listens and confesses it, you have won that person back.”

    The truth is that God gave us the emotion of anger, but when that feeling controls us and leads to sin, it destroys us and those around us. This is not from God.

    In Ephesians 4:27, Paul says, “And do not give the devil a foothold.” We are unable to think clearly when we allow anger to control us. Our mind starts coming up with reasons why we should be angry with that person. Unfortunately, sometimes—or perhaps most of the time—instead of confronting the person who has offended us, we lash out and vent our frustrations on people who have nothing to do with the turmoil we are experiencing.

    I shared my anger and unforgiveness with a dear friend, the leader of my Bible study group, Ann Knopp. She told me, “When Jesus said that we are to forgive seventy times seventy, He meant that forgiveness is a continuous process. We are to forgive the person, give it to God as many times as we need, and move on. And every time the enemy brings the hurt back, forgive again and give it to God. It’s not that we forget the wrongdoing; it’s that the event that caused the anger won’t hold the same feelings. You may look at that person, and the event will just be a sad memory. The emotion of anger will no longer be connected. It will still be remembered because we aren’t God and don’t have a personal sea of forgetfulness. (A. Knopp, August 21, 2023)

     

    Friends, I don’t know if you can relate, but know that Jesus knew we would experience anger and challenging situations that would bring out the worst in us. But with His help, we can find freedom from anger and forgiveness. I’m not there yet; I’m still a work in progress. I know I cannot do this alone; only through Jesus can I accomplish it. Jesus gives me the strength and the courage to face anything. I need to focus on Him, and He will show me the way. He died to set me and you free. The work has already been done—we only need to accept it and let Him lead us.

     

    Lord, Jesus, thank You for going into the future and seeing all my sins, anger, unforgiveness, and who I would be without You. Thank You for dying for me despite all my sins and returning to the past to rescue me from death. Help me to love others as You love me. Please help me to forgive others as You have ignored all my debts. Lord, You know I can’t do that without You. Lead me through the right path and complete the work You began in me. I love You! In Your name, I give You praise, Amen!

     

     

    Reference:

    Knopp, Ann L, author of “Pursue Jesus, Obey Jesus, Live Jesus.

    Forgiven: Freedom from Your Past, Faith for Your Future. (2022). Roswell, GA: Celebration Enterprises, Inc. 2022.

    The Holy Bible, New Living Translation. (1996). Wheaton, IL: Tyndale House Foundation.

     

     

     

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  • Remain in Me

    Remain in Me

    Remain in me, and I will remain in you. For a branch cannot produce fruit if it is severed from the vine, and you cannot be fruitful unless you remain in me. John 15:4 NLT

     

    Today, I woke up with a heavy heart. The memories were overwhelming my heart. I went to the Lord and lay my heart and the pain as I cried out to Him and told Him that my heart could no longer bear the pain and regrets of the past. “Lord, why can I let go? Help me, Jesus, I can’t do this without you,” I said. Suddenly, the Lord led me to read John 15:4.

     

    “Remain in me, and I will remain in you. For a branch cannot produce fruit if it is severed from the vine, and you cannot be fruitful unless you remain in me. ” I have read this verse many times; my last two postings were related to Jesus being the vine, and we are His branches. But today, He spoke to me about something else.

     

    “Abide” in the Merriam-Webster Dictionary means “to remain; to stay.” The Lord showed me to continue to remain in Him and depend on Him every day, every moment, and to trust that He will finish the work He began in me. In the meantime, while I wait, delight in His presence because He’s happy with me at every stage of my spiritual growth. He’s not waiting for me to be perfect to love me. He will never love me more than He already loves me.

     

    Friends, I don’t know if you can relate to being in a waiting period where you’re struggling not being the person you know God created you to be; or perhaps you’re going through a difficult time, and you’re wondering why God is not moving the way you want Him to. Be encouraged, beloved; God will never give up on you. Things may not happen as fast as we want, but be confident knowing that God is with you, loves you; He’s faithful and will complete the work He began in you.

     

    Father, thank You for loving me despite my past and present. You are holy and faithful. Father, let your will be done in me as in Heaven. Help me to delight in Your presence daily as I wait for You to complete the work You began in me. Thank you for your blessings, mercy, and grace. Thank you for always listening to me when I call out to you. Although I can’t see you, I know You’re beside me, embracing me and wiping all my tears. Thank you for being my Father. In Jesus’ name, I give you praises, amen.

     

    Reference

    The Holy Bible, New Living Translation. (1996). Carol Stream, IL: Tyndale House Foundation.

    Merriam-Webster (n.d.). Vinedresser. In the Merriam-Webster.com dictionary. Retrieved August 1, 2023 https://www.merriamwebster.com/dictionary/vinedresser

     

     

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  • Buscando a Dios en la viña (Looking for God in the Vineyard)

    Buscando a Dios en la viña (Looking for God in the Vineyard)

    Yo soy la vid verdadera, y mi Padre es el viñador.

    Él corta de mí toda rama que no produce fruto

    y poda las ramas que sí dan fruto, para que den aún más.

    Juan 15:1-2, NTV

     

                                                                                                                                                                            Como dije anteriormente, mis amigos y yo hemos estado estudiando Scouting the Divide de Margaret Feinberg. En nuestro último devocional vimos a Dios como nuestro Buen Pastor y cómo trató a las personas de manera diferente según sus necesidades. Hoy veremos la relación entre Dios y la vid y la importancia de que Jesús sea la vid y nosotros los ramas.

                Mis hijas me sorprendieron con un viaje de fin de semana para visitar varios viñedos por mi cumpleaños. Durante este fantástico viaje y pasando tiempo de calidad con mis hijas, me di cuenta de primera mano del significado de las palabras de Jesús cuando se refirió a sí mismo como la vid y a nosotros como las ramas.

    ¡Pero aprendí mucho más! Cuidar un viñedo es una tarea sumamente compleja. Tuve el placer de entrevistar a algunos de los trabajadores que nos dieron un recorrido por su viñedo y nos explicaron el proceso de plantación, poda, cosecha y finalmente la elaboración del vino.

    Entonces, ¿qué lección bíblica quería Dios que aprendiera mientras visitaba estos viñedos y aprendía sobre el proceso de elaboración del vino? Juan 2:1-11 cuenta la historia de cómo Jesús convirtió el agua en vino. Este milagro fue el comienzo del ministerio de Jesús. Según los trabajadores de la viña con los que hablé, que Jesús convirtiera el agua en vino fue un verdadero milagro porque el vino fino tarda tres años o más en hacerse. Y durante ese periodo cada proceso tiene su propio tiempo y estación. No se puede apurar. Cultivar una viña requiere corazón, pasión, paciencia, perseverancia y esperanza. Durante cada temporada, el enólogo debe decidir qué vid se debe podar y qué tanto. Si corta la rama equivocada, toda la vid sufrirá. La poda requiere mucho cuidado, paciencia y conocimiento de cada vid individualmente.

    Cuando Jesús pidió a los sirvientes que llenaran las tinajas con agua y convirtió el agua en vino, hizo más que realizar un milagro: Él trascendió el tiempo. Jesús mostró que Él es el Dios de lo imposible y que no está sujeto al tiempo. Demostró quién era Él a los sirvientes, a Sus discípulos y a la novia y el novio. El vino era el mejor que habían probado en su vida. Este milagro fue un presagio de Su muerte en la cruz.

    Una de las lecciones que aprendí durante mi visita a la viña fue que ningún individuo puede hacerlo todo. Diferentes trabajadores realizan diferentes trabajos. Tienes al viñador(una persona que cultiva y poda las vides), a los trabajadores que recogen las uvas en la cosecha, y a los que

    las muelen y agregan la levadura, el azúcar y otros ingredientes apropiados para producir el vino perfecto.

    También descubrimos que las personas en la viña a menudo tienen múltiples roles. Jesús dijo a sus discípulos, Yo soy la Vid, y mi Padre es aún más que el viñador; también es el propietario, gerente y viticultor del viñedo. Pero de todos los títulos, Jesús da el título de viñador a Su Padre, que es el que poda o esculpe el árbol. Entonces, ¿cuál era el papel del viñador? ¿Por qué es tan importante su trabajo?

    Según Kristol, el agricultor entrevistado por Margaret Feinberg dijo:

    Puede que te sorprenda, pero el que está podando una vid es el amo. Incluso en nuestros viñedos, el dueño puede poseer la tierra y puede estar haciendo el vino, pero el tipo que gana $12 la hora con las tijeras es quien tiene todo el poder.

    Un viñador es alguien que cultiva y poda vides. Nuestro Padre Celestial es el que conoce cada vid individualmente y, porque las conoce, las trata a todas individualmente.

    Reflexionando sobre la cita: Él corta de mí toda rama que no produce fruto

    y poda las ramas que sí dan fruto, para que den aún más. Juan 15:1-2, NTV

    Kristof le explicó a la Sra. Feinberg:

                Tú podrías ver otra rama sin fruto y la cortarías. Pero como vinicultor, hay mucha más toma de decisiones y experiencia en esta cita de lo que parece a primera vista. Son los pequeños cortes los que tienen más impacto. No puedes entrar con un par de tijeras y cortar como un loco. No solo miras lo que parece ser una rama muerta y la cortas, luego miras una rama llena de fruta y piensas que está bien sino, que a lo largo de la poda, realizas cortes precisos y estratégicos para producir la vid más saludable y robusta.

     

    He descubierto que la poda puede ser bastante dolorosa. Considere los momentos en que pasamos por pruebas y pruebas. No nos gusta, pero la vid debe crecer sana y producir frutos en el momento y la estación apropiados. Según Kristof, si se hace el corte incorrecto, la vid no dará frutos. Para evitar que esto suceda, las vides deben ser examinadas adecuadamente. Cada vid es diferente y requiere un corte diferente.

    Esto también es cierto en nuestras vidas. Dios nuestro Padre nos conoce individualmente a cada uno de nosotros. Él conoce cada cabello en nuestras cabezas. Él sabe lo que nos hace felices y lo que nos entristece.

    Pero Él también sabe lo que nos hace tropezar. Entonces, Él quita cuidadosamente aquellas cosas que no pertenecen a nuestros corazones. Jeremías dice que Dios tiene buenos planes para nosotros. (Ver Jeremías 29:11). Él quiere lo mejor para nosotros. Entonces, cuando Él comienza Su poda, es posible que no nos gusten esos cortes pequeños o, a veces, significativos, pero se hacen para ayudarnos a crecer y convertirnos en la persona que Él nos creó para ser. Mientras miraba a un viñador podar las vides, me vi a mí misma como una de esas ramas que necesitaban ser podadas. Necesito que el Señor elimine todas esas cosas que me impiden convertirme en la persona que Él me creó para ser. El Señor nos poda cada día. A veces tenemos un descanso, pero si continuamos permitiendo que esas espinas nos ahoguen y nos separen de la Vid, nuestra fuente de vida, Dios nos podará.

    Amigos, las vides son un retrato ideal de permanencia porque Jesús es la Vid. Dependemos de la Vid para obtener los nutrientes adecuados, el suelo adecuado, la poda correcta y mucho cuidado amoroso; requiere mucho amor. Nuestro Padre, el Viñador, conoce cada vid individualmente. Sólo el viñador sabe lo que necesita cada vid. ¿Por

    qué? Porque Él nos conoce. El rey David declaró en el Salmo 139:1-5:

    Oh SEÑOR, has examinado mi corazón y sabes todo acerca de mí.

    Sabes cuándo me siento y cuándo me levanto;

    conoces mis pensamientos, aun cuando me encuentro lejos.

    Me ves cuando viajo y cuando descanso en casa.

    Sabes todo lo que hago. Sabes lo que voy a decir incluso antes de que lo diga, SEÑOR. Vas delante y detrás de mí.

    Pones tu mano de bendición sobre mi cabeza.   Salmo 139:1-5 NTV

     

    Tú creaste las delicadas partes internas de mi cuerpo

    y me entretejiste en el vientre de mi madre.

    ¡Gracias por hacerme tan maravillosamente complejo!

    Tu fino trabajo es maravilloso, lo sé muy bien.

    Tú me observabas mientras iba cobrando forma en secreto,

    mientras se entretejían mis partes en la oscuridad de la matriz.

    Me viste antes de que naciera.

    Cada día de mi vida estaba registrado en tu libro.

    Cada momento fue diseñado

    antes de que un solo día pasara.

    Qué preciosos son tus pensamientos acerca de mí, oh Dios. Salmo 139:13-17 NTV

                                                                                                                                                                            Mientras escuchaba al mesonero de la viña, recordé que esta era una imagen hermosa de cómo Jesús mora con Dios para cuidar toda la Viña y cómo las ramas deben permanecer en la Vid para sobrevivir; obtener los nutrientes que necesitan, y recibir los cuidados necesarios para dar frutos en la cosecha.

    Amigos, la Vid es la fuente de todo, incluida la vida y los nutrientes para las ramas. El rey David entendió este principio. Aparte del Señor, él no era nada y lo mismo es cierto para nosotros. Cuando permanecemos en Jesús, la Vid verdadera, significa que tenemos plena confianza en Él, sin importar en qué época estemos. Según la escritura, ustedes producen frutos para la gloria del Padre. Permanecer significa sentirse cómodo con el Señor hasta el punto de entregar completamente su corazón sin dudarlo. Pero esto solo puede suceder cuando ponemos a Jesús en primer lugar en nuestras vidas y ofrecemos nuestros corazones, emociones y eliminamos cualquier cosa que nos quite el lugar de Dios.

    Cuando permaneces en la Palabra de Dios y le revelas tu Corazón, creces más íntimamente con Jesús y llegas a conocerlo mejor cada día. Y, una vez que lo conozcas, no tendrás miedo porque sabrás que Dios está contigo y en ti.  Después de su investigación, la Sra. Feinberg concluyó:

                Para crecer, debemos estar afuera. Y como la vid no puede producir uvas de calidad durante todo el año, tampoco podemos esperar ser fructíferos todos los días. Aunque es doloroso, la poda es uno de los mandatos de Dios, actos de amor más significativos. Durante el invierno, descubrí el mayor acto de amor de Dios. Durante el invierno, encontré a Dios como el guardián de la vid, Aquel que nos protege y nutre para que podamos dar el fruto que Él ha preparado para nosotros. producir.

     

    Entonces, amigos, ¿pudieron obtener una comprensión más profunda de quién es Dios y por qué es el guardián de la vid? Oro para que el Señor abra tus ojos espirituales para que comiences a ver a nuestro Padre como nuestro viñador, y a Jesús como nuestra vid, la fuente de nuestra vida. Daremos fruto mientras permanezcamos en Él. Seremos protegidos y guiados mientras corremos nuestra carrera, sabiendo que Jesús es nuestra fuente de fortaleza.

    Señor, gracias por mostrarme cuánto nos amas a través de este estudio y la experiencia de visitar una de estas viñas. Tú eres mi; protector; Podas lo que necesita ser podado para que pueda crecer y finalmente convertirme en la mujer que me creaste para ser. Elimina esas viejas ramas que me impiden alcanzar mi verdadero potencial. Ayúdame a través de Tu sabiduría a ser consciente de esas áreas, el ajetreo, la familia, la actitud e incluso la falta de perdón, y desarraigarlas. Por favor, guíame para tomar decisiones sabias y recuerda que Tú estás en mi vida. Nunca te vas de mi lado. En el nombre de Jesús, te agradezco por tu amor, misericordia y gracia. En tu nombre, amén.

     

    Referencias

    Almodóvar-Caporusso, C. (2023). Región vinícola de Long Island. [Fotografía].

    Traductor: Jesus Manuel Perez

    Feinberg, M. (1976). Explorando lo Divino: mi búsqueda de Dios en el vino, la lana y Miel salvaje. Middletown, DE: Fundación Lockman.

    La Santa Biblia, Nueva Traducción Viviente. (1996). Carol Stream, IL: Fundación Tyndale House.

    Merriam-Webster (nd). Viticultor. En el diccionario Merriam-Webster.com.

    Consultado el 1 de agosto de 2023 https://www.merriamwebster.com/dictionary/vinedresser

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  • Searching for God in the Vineyard

    Searching for God in the Vineyard

    “I am the true grapevine, and my Father is the gardener. He cuts off every branch of mine that doesn’t produce fruit, and he prunes the branches that do bear fruit so they will produce even more.” (John 15:1-2, NLT

    As I previously stated, my friends and I have been studying “Scouting the Divide by Margaret Feinberg. In our last devotional, we saw God as our Good Shepherd and how He treated people differently depending on their needs. Today we’ll look at the relationship between God and the Vine. And the importance of Jesus being the Vine and us as the branches.

    My daughters surprised me with a weekend trip to visit several vineyards for my birthday. During this fantastic trip and spending quality time with my daughters, I realized firsthand the significance of Jesus’ words when He referred to Himself as the Vine and us as the branches.

    But I learned so much more! Taking care of a vineyard is a highly complex task. I had the pleasure of interviewing some of the workers who gave us a tour of their vineyard and explained the process of planting, pruning, harvesting, and finally making the wine.

    So, what biblical lesson did God want me to learn while visiting these vineyards and learning about the winemaking process? John 2:1-11 tells the story of how Jesus changed water into wine. This miracle was the beginning of Jesus’ ministry. According to the vineyard workers I spoke with, Jesus turning water into wine was truly a miracle because fine wine takes three or more years to make. And during this time, each process has its own time and season. It cannot be rush it. Growing a vineyard requires heart, passion, patience, endurance, and hope. During each season, the winemaker must decide which vine should be pruned and by how much. If he cuts the wrong branch, the entire vine will suffer. Pruning requires a great deal of care, patience, and knowledge of each vine individually.

    When Jesus asked the servants to fill the jars with water and turn the water into wine, He did more than perform a miracle; He transcended time. Jesus showed that He is the God of the Impossible and is not bound by time. He demonstrated who He was to the servants, His disciples, and the bride and groom. The wine was the best they had ever tasted. This miracle was a foreshadowing of His death on the cross.

    One of the lessons I learned during my visit to the vineyard was that no one individual can do everything. Different workers carry out other jobs. You have the vineyard keeper, the vinedresser, the workers who gather the grapes at harvest, and those who grind them and add the appropriate yeast, sugar, and other ingredients to produce the perfect wine.

    We also discovered that people in the vineyard often have multiple roles. Jesus said to his disciples, I am the Vine, and my Father is more than just the Vinedresser (a person who cultivates and prunes grapevines); He is also the Vineyard owner, manager, and vintner. But of all the titles, Jesus gives the title of Vinedresser to His Father, who is the one pruning or sculpting the tree.

    So, what was the role of the vinedresser? Why is his job so important? According to Kristol, the farmer interviewed by Margaret Feinberg (1976),

    It may surprise you, but whoever is pruning a vine is the master. Even in our vineyards, the owner may possess the land and might be making the wine, but it’s the guy making $12 an hour with the shears who has all the power. (p.111 )

    A vinedresser is someone who cultivates and prunes grapevines. Our Heavenly Father is the one that knows every vine individually, and because he knows them, He treats them all individually.

    Reflecting on the quote, “He cuts off every branch of mine that doesn’t produce fruit, and he prunes the branches that do bear fruit so they will produce even more.” (John 15:2, NLT), Kristof explained to Ms. Feinberg,

    You’d see another branch without fruit and cut it off. But as a vintner, there’s a lot more decision-making and experience going on in this passage than appears at first glance. It’s the little cuts that are the most impactful. You can’t come in with a pair of shears and clip like crazy. You don’t just look at what appears to be a dead branch and cut it off, then look at a branch full of fruit and think it’s fine. But throughout pruning, you make precise, strategic cuts to produce the healthiest, most robust Vine. (p. 112)

    I’ve discovered that pruning can be quite painful. Consider the times we go through trials and testing. We don’t like it, but the vine must grow healthy and produce fruits at the appropriate time and season. According to Kristof, if the wrong cut is done, the vine won’t bear fruit. To avoid this from happening, the vines must be properly examined. Each vine is different and requires a different cut.

    This is also true in our lives. God, our Father, knows each of us individually. He knows every hair on our heads. He knows what makes us happy and what makes us sad.

    But He also knows what causes us to stumble. So, He carefully removes those things that do not belong in our hearts. Jeremiah says that God has good plans for us. (See Jeremiah 29:11). He wants what is best for us. So, when He begins His pruning, we may not like those small or sometimes significant cuts, but they are done to help us grow into the person He created us to be. As I watched a vinedresser prune the vines, I saw myself as one of those branches that needed to be pruned. I need the Lord to remove all those things that are preventing me from becoming the person He created me to be. The Lord prunes us every day. Sometimes, we get a break, but if we continue to allow those thorns to choke us and separate us from the Vine, our life source, God will prune us.

    Friends, the vines are an ideal portrait of abiding because Jesus is the Vine. We dependent on the Vine to get the proper nutrients, suitable soil, the correct pruning, and plenty of loving care; it requires a lot of love. Our Father, the Vinedresser, knows each vine individually. Only the vinedresser knows what each vine needs. Why? Because He knows us.

    King David stated in Psalm 139:1-5, “O Lord, you have examined my heart and know everything about me. You know, when I sit down or stand up. You know my thoughts even when I’m far away. You see me when I travel and when I rest at home. You know everything I do. You know what I will say even before I say it, Lord. You go before me and follow me. You place your hand of blessing on my head.”

    “You made all the delicate inner parts of my body and knit me together in my mother’s womb. Thank you for making me so wonderfully complex! Your workmanship is marvelous- how well I know it. You watched me as I was being formed in the utter seclusion as I was woven together in the dark of the womb. You saw me before I was born. Every moment was laid out before a single day had passed. How precious are your thoughts about me, O Lord.” (Psalm 139:13-17 NLT)

     

    While listening to the vineyard’s innkeeper, I remembered how this was a beautiful image of how Jesus abides with God to care for the entire Vineyard and how the branches must stay in the Vine to survive; to obtain the nutrients they need and to receive the necessary care to bear fruits in the harvest.

    Friends, the Vine is the source of everything, including life and nutrients to the branches. King David understood this principle. Apart from the Lord, he was nothing; the same is true for us. When we abide in Jesus, the true Vine, it means we have complete trust in Him, no matter what season we are in. According to the scripture, you produce fruits for the glory of the Father. Abiding means making yourself comfortable with the Lord to the point that you completely surrender your heart without hesitation.  But this can only happen when we put Jesus first in our lives and, offer our hearts emotions, and remove anything that takes God’s place away from us.

    When you abide in God’s Word and reveal your Heart to Him, you grow more intimately with Jesus and get to know Him better daily. And once you know Him, you will not be afraid because you will know that God is with you and in you.

    After her research, Ms. Feinberg concluded: “To grow, we must be out back. And as the vine can’t produce quality grapes year-round, neither can we expect to be fruitful daily. Though painful, pruning is one of God’s most significant acts of love. Through the winter, I discovered God’s greatest act of love. Through the winter, I found God as the keeper of the vine-One who protects and nurtures us so we can bear the fruit He has set out for us to produce” (p.115).

    So, friends, were you able to get a deeper understanding of who God is and why He is the keeper of the Vine? I pray the Lord will open your spiritual eyes so you will begin to see our Father as our Vinekeeper, and Jesus as our Vine, the source of our life. We will bear fruit as long as we remain in Him. We will be protected and guided while we run our race, knowing that Jesus is our source of strength.

     

    Lord, thank You for showing me how much You love us through this study and the experience of visiting one of these vineyards. You are my; protector; You prune what needs to be pruned so I can grow and finally become the woman You created me to be. Remove those old branches that are stopping me from reaching my true potential. Help me through Your wisdom to be aware of those areas, busyness, family, attitude, and even unforgiveness, and root them out. Please guide me to make wise choices and remember that You are in my life. You never leave my side. In Jesus’ name, I thank You for Your love, mercy, and grace. In Your name, amen.

     

     

    References

    Almodovar-Caporusso, C. (2023). Long Island Wine Country.  [Photograph].

    Feinberg, M. (1976). Scouting the Divine-My Search for God in Wine, Wool, and Wild Honey.   Middletown, DE: The Lockman Foundation.

    The Holy Bible, New Living Translation. (1996). Carol Stream, IL: Tyndale House Foundation.

    Merriam-Webster (n.d.). Vinedresser. In the Merriam-Webster.com dictionary. Retrieved August 1, 2023 https://www.merriamwebster.com/dictionary/vinedresser

     

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  • Llámame (Call Out To Me)

    Llámame (Call Out To Me)

    Pídeme y te daré a conocer secretos sorprendentes que no conoces acerca de lo que está por venir. Jeremías 33:3 NTV

     

    El pasado domingo por la noche, mi alma se sintió inquieta. Sentí preocupación, miedo en mi corazón, como si algo imprevisible estuviera a punto de suceder. Pasé tiempo con Jesús, pero no me senté y hablé con Él sobre cómo me sentía.

    Luego, mientras me preparaba para acostarme, el Espíritu Santo me instó a tocar la canción Famous For (I Believe) de Tauren Wells y Jenn Johnson. Empecé a llorar cuando escuché la canción y comencé a hablar en el Espíritu No tena idea de por qué estaba llorando o lo que el Espíritu Santo estaba diciendo.

    Mi Espíritu clamó a Él tan pronto como escuché estas palabras:

                No hay miedo porque yo creo. No hay duda porque he visto Tu fidelidad, mi fortaleza una y otra vez. Tengo una esperanza hallada en Tu nombre. Tengo una fuerza que se encuentra en Tu gracia. Tu fidelidad, mi fortaleza una y otra vez. (Butler, Nordhoff, Sapp, Slifer & Wells. 2020)

    Pero, mientras continuaba escuchando la canción, sentí algo poderoso en mi corazón y alma. Me sentí como si estuviera de pie al lado de Jesús.

    Abre paso a través de las aguas, llévame a través del fuego.

    Haz aquello por lo que eres famoso. Cierra la boca de los leones.

    Da vida a los huesos secos y haz aquello por lo que eres famoso.

    Yo creo en Ti, Dios…  (Butler et al., 2020)

     

    Comprendí en ese momento que había alguien más que necesitaba creer que Jesús era el Dios de lo imposible. Empecé a orar, pidiéndole al Señor que se revelara a esa persona. Él es el Dios de lo imposible. El mismo Dios que me trajo de regreso a Él y nunca se da por vencido con ninguno de nosotros, sin importar lo que hagamos.

    Quien necesite escuchar este mensaje necesita saber que Él es el Dios de lo imposible. El Dios que te perseguirá y dejará las noventa y nueve para ir tras de ti. ¿Por qué? Porque así es Él. Él te ama a ti y a mí y nunca se dará por vencido contigo. Sé que esto es cierto porque Él lo hizo por mí.

    Amigo, cuando se te rompa el corazón y te sientas perdido, solo y sin saber qué hacer, recuerda que tienes a Jesús. El Dios que se hizo carne y tomó tu lugar en la cruz para salvarte. Nada es imposible para Él. Confía en Él y espera. Superará tus expectativas. Aunque es posible que no obtengas una respuesta de inmediato, ten la seguridad de que Dios nunca miente y siempre cumple sus promesas. Clama a Él, y Él te escuchará.

    Padre, gracias por tocar mi corazón esta noche y hacerme saber que siempre estás cerca y eres nuestro gran Pastor, siempre cuidándonos. Padre, oro por quien está pasando por un momento difícil esta noche. Muéstrate a esta oveja como lo hiciste conmigo. Haz que Tus ovejas sepan cuánto las amas. No importa qué tormenta encuentren, Tú estás allí con ellos. Eres el Dios de lo imposible, que cumple Sus promesas y nunca nos deja ir. En el nombre de Jesús, alabo tu nombre, ¡amén!

     

    Referencia

    Butler, C., Nordhoff, K., Sapp, J., Slifer, A. y Wells, T. (2020). Famoso por (Creo). [Grabado por T. Wells & J. Johnson]. Sobre Ciudadano del Cielo. https://www.youtube.com/watch

    La Santa Biblia, Nueva Traducción Viviente. (1996). Carol Stream, IL: Fundación Tyndale House.

    Traductor: Jesus Manuel Perez

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  • Call Out to Me

    Call Out to Me

    Ask me, and I will tell you remarkable secrets you do not know about things to come. Jeremiah 33:3 NLT

    Sunday night, my soul felt restless. I felt this worry, concern, and fear in my heart, as though something unforeseeable was about to happen. I spent time with Jesus, but I didn’t sit down and talk with Him about how I felt.

    Then, as I was getting ready to go to bed, the Holy Spirit prompted me to play the song “Famous For (I Believe)” by Tauren Wells and Jenn Johnson. I started to cry as I heard the song and started speaking in the Spirit. I had no idea why I was crying or what the Holy Spirit was saying.

    My Spirit cried out to Him as soon as I heard these words:

    “There is no fear ’cause I believe. There is no doubt ’cause I have seen Your faithfulness, my fortress Over and over. I have a hope found in Your name. I have a strength found in Your grace Your faithfulness, my fortress Over and over. “(Butler, Nordhoff, Sapp, Slifer & Wells. 2020)

    But, as I continued listening to the song, I felt something powerful in my heart and soul. I felt as if I was standing next to Jesus.

    “Make way through the waters, walk me through the fire. Do what you are famous for. What You are famous for. Shut the mouths of lions. Bring dry bones to life and do what You are famous for. I believe in You, God…” (Butler et al., 2020)

    At that moment, I understood that someone else needed to believe that Jesus was the God of the impossible. I started to pray, asking the Lord to reveal Himself to that person. He is the God of the impossible. The same God who brought me back to Him and never gives up on any of us, no matter what we do.

    Whoever needs to hear this message needs to know that He is the God of the Impossible. The God who will pursue you and will leave the ninety-nine to go after you. Why? Because that’s who He is. He loves you and me and will never give up on you. I know this to be true because He did it for me.

    Friend, when your heart is breaking, and you feel lost, alone, and unsure of what to do, remember that you have Jesus. The God who became flesh and took your place on the cross to save you. Nothing is impossible for Him. Trust Him and wait. He will exceed your expectations. Although you may not get an answer immediately, rest assured that God never lies and always keeps His promises. Call out to Him, and He will listen.

     

    Father, thank You for touching my heart tonight and letting me know that You are always near and our great Shepherd, always watching over us. Father, I pray for whoever is going through a difficult time tonight. Show Yourself to this sheep as You did to me. Let Your sheep know how much You love them. No matter what storm they encounter, You are there with them. You are the God of the impossible—who keeps His promises and never lets us go. In Jesus’ name, I praise your name, amen!

     

    Reference

    Butler, C., Nordhoff, K., Sapp, J., Slifer, A., & Wells, T. (2020). Famous For (I Believe). [Recorded by T. Wells & J. Johnson]. On Citizen of Heaven. https://www.youtube.com/watch

    The Holy Bible, New Living Translation. (1996). Carol Stream, IL: Tyndale House Foundation.

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  • El buen pastor y sus ovejas (The Good Shepherd and His Sheep)

    El buen pastor y sus ovejas (The Good Shepherd and His Sheep)

    Alimentará su rebaño como un pastor;
    llevará en sus brazos los corderos
    y los mantendrá cerca de su corazón.
    Guiará con delicadeza a las ovejas con crías. Isaías 40:11 NLT

     

    En nuestro devocional anterior, “Nuestro Buen Pastor”, aprendimos acerca de Jesús como el Buen Pastor y las cualidades únicas de un buen pastor:

    • Está dispuesto a arriesgar su vida para proteger a sus ovejas.
    • A sus ovejas llama por su nombre, y ellas conocen su voz.
    • Él mantiene seguras a sus ovejas.
    • Él guía a las ovejas.
    • Las corrige cuando es necesario.
    • Siempre vigila a sus ovejas.
    • Él lleva a las ovejas a pastos verdes donde pueden comer con seguridad sin preocuparse por depredadores.
    • Los conduce a aguas tranquilas donde pueden beber con seguridad.
    • Él va delante de las ovejas y las ovejas lo siguen.
    • Espera junto a la puerta con su bastón para protegerlas de los enemigos.

    Según Juan 10:11-14, el buen pastor conduce a sus ovejas, encuentra comida y agua, y también localiza caminos en el desierto (ver Salmo 23). El buen pastor se interpone entre sus ovejas y el peligro y lucha para protegerlas (Juan 10:11).

    Isaías 40:11 nos da una hermosa descripción de Nuestro Buen Pastor:

    Alimentará su rebaño como un pastor;
    llevará en sus brazos los corderos
    y los mantendrá cerca de su corazón.
    Guiará con delicadeza a las ovejas con crías.

     

    Si recuerdas, hacia el final de nuestro último devocional sobre Nuestro Buen Pastor, te hice algunas preguntas para reflexionar a fin de prepararnos para la lección de hoy: sabemos que Jesús es nuestro Buen Pastor, pero ¿son todas las ovejas iguales? ¿Y cómo nos trata nuestro Señor individualmente?

    Primero hablemos de las ovejas. Lo creas o no, no todas las ovejas son iguales. Algunas ovejas tienen una voluntad fuerte y piensan que la hierba siempre es más verde al otro lado de la cerca. Encuentran una manera de escabullirse, y el pastor debe buscarlas y traerlas de vuelta.

                The Shepherd Trilogy de W. Phillip Keller (1970) contiene una historia sobre una de sus ovejas especiales. Compartió que una vez tuvo una hermosa oveja, la oveja más hermosa que jamás había tenido. La

    describió de la siguiente manera:

    Su cuerpo estaba bellamente proporcionado. Tenía una constitución fuerte y una excelente capa de lana. Su cabeza estaba limpia, alerta y bien colocada, con ojos brillantes. Dio a luz corderos robustos que maduraron rápidamente. Pero a pesar de todos estos atractivos atributos, tenía un defecto pronunciado.

    Estaba inquieta, descontenta, como una merodeadora de cercas. (p. 25-26).

    Entonces, debido a todos estos atributos, la llamó Sra. Gad-about. Ella le causó más problemas que prácticamente el resto del rebaño combinado. Constantemente buscaba una manera de alimentarse del otro lado de las vallas.

    El Sr. Keller era un buen pastor; a la señora Gad-about no le faltaba acceso a los pastos. Sus campos siempre estaban bien mantenidos. El problema era que la Sra. Gad-about no estaba contenta con las provisiones que le hizo su pastor. Siempre encontraba la manera de saltar la cerca que estaba allí para mantenerla a salvo. Pero ella no fue la única. Pudo enseñar a sus corderos a seguir su mal comportamiento. Continuó haciéndolo a pesar de los repetidos esfuerzos del Sr. Keller por localizarla y llevarla a casa. Estaba dando un mal ejemplo al resto del rebaño.

    Desafortunadamente, el Sr. Keller se vio obligado a tomar una decisión difícil si quería salvar al resto del rebaño. La amaba mucho, pero tenía que deshacerse de ella. A pesar del afecto del Sr. Keller por ella y de todo lo que había hecho para mantenerla, la Sra. Gad-about era una oveja que todavía estaba insatisfecha y quería más. ¿Suena familiar?

    Nosotros también tendemos a alejarnos de Dios en busca de algo mejor. ¿Significa eso que Dios se librará de nosotros como el Sr. Keller se deshizo de su oveja? ¡Absolutamente no! Nuestro Padre Celestial no nos echa fuera cuando nos escapamos o deambulamos en busca de una vida mejor. Él nos espera con amor y paciencia.

    Como algunas ovejas, a veces pensamos que la hierba siempre es más verde al otro lado de la cerca. A pesar de que Dios nos ama profundamente, satisface todas nuestras necesidades y nos protege del mal, hay momentos en los que todavía queremos más. Y al igual que esa oveja rebelde, la Sra. Gad-about, encontramos la manera de dejar el lugar cómodo que Dios nos ha provisto en busca de algo mejor. Sé que esto es cierto porque yo era una de esas ovejas.

    Jesús enseñó acerca del Hijo Pródigo en Lucas 15:11-32. Como las ovejas del Sr. Keller, el joven hijo lo tenía todo. Tenía todo lo que quería, pero pensó que la hierba era más verde al otro lado. Entonces, empacó sus cosas y tomó su parte del dinero de su padre y se fue. Lamentablemente, después de enfrentar muchas pruebas y desafíos, se dio cuenta de que la vida fuera de la casa de su padre no era mejor y decidió regresar a casa.

    Una de las cosas asombrosas de esta parábola es cómo el padre nunca perdió la esperanza en la posibilidad de volver a ver a su hijo. Cuando el padre vio a su hijo de lejos, corrió a abrazarlo. Lo mismo es cierto de nuestro Buen Pastor. No importa las dificultades que enfrentemos, Él nunca se da por vencido con nosotros y amorosamente nos trae de vuelta a él.

    Mi segunda pregunta fue si creemos o no que nuestro Buen Pastor trata a todas sus ovejas de la misma manera. Esa es una pregunta difícil de responder. Desde mi experiencia personal, Él trata a todas Sus ovejas por igual, pero también nos trata a cada uno de nosotros como individuos. Dios conoce a todos sus hijos. Él sabe todo sobre nosotros. Aunque Su amor sigue siendo el mismo, la forma en que lo muestra puede diferir según nuestras personalidades. Sabemos que Jesús ama a todas sus ovejas y dio su vida por nosotros. Él conoce nuestras alegrías y tristezas. Él sabe cuando nos desviamos. Él deja las 99 en busca de la desaparecida. Yo era una de las ovejas desaparecidas.

    Estaba tan abrumada por el dolor después de la muerte de mi padre que dejé la iglesia porque no sentía que estuviera recibiendo ningún apoyo de ellos. Sin embargo, Jesús nunca dejó de amarme. Él estuvo allí cuando enfrenté pruebas y tribulaciones; Él me amó a través de mi desobediencia, dolor y tristeza. ¿Por qué? Porque soy una de sus ovejas. Él sabía que algún día regresaría a Él y cuando lo hice, Él estaba esperando con los brazos abiertos para abrazarme y amarme. ¿He recibido alguna medida disciplinaria mientras estuve fuera? ¡Absolutamente! Pero esos fueron los resultados de mis acciones. A pesar de todo, Dios nunca dejó de amarme. No importa cuán perdida estaba, siempre sentí Su presencia.

    Encuentro consuelo en saber que Jesús, nuestro Buen Pastor, está en nosotros a través del Espíritu Santo. Él nos está cuidando y protegiendo de cualquier daño. Sé que Él tiene todo bajo control, incluso cuando las cosas no salen como queremos. Él nos ama y tiene grandes planes para cada uno de nosotros.

     

    Amigos, no sé por lo que están pasando en este momento, pero anímense porque Jesucristo, nuestro Buen Pastor, siempre está con ustedes, sin importar en qué etapa de su vida se encuentren. Como el Buen Pastor, Él está trabajando en tu nombre, eliminando cualquier obstáculo que te impida encontrar paz y descanso. Clama a Él, busca refugio en sus brazos y permite que Su Palabra te dé el consuelo que tu corazón necesita desesperadamente. Es solo en Su presencia que encontramos paz y descanso.

    Mi Señor y mi Pastor, gracias por velar siempre por mí y por no dejar que me aleje por mucho tiempo. Gracias por dejar las 99 para ir tras de mí. Señor, sé que incluso cuando no puedo ver lo que estás haciendo en mi vida, estás trabajando entre bastidores para preparar mi corazón para que pueda experimentar la paz y el descanso que solo se pueden encontrar en ti. En Tu precioso nombre, te alabo y te doy toda la gloria. Amén.

     

    Referencia

    La Santa Biblia, Nueva Traducción Viviente. (1996). Carol Stream, IL: Fundación Tyndale House.

    Keller, Phillip W. (1970). La trilogía del pastor. Grand Rapids, MI: Zondervan.

    Schmidt, D. (2023). Rebaño de ovejas. [Fotografía

    Traductor: Jesus Manue Perez

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  • The Good Shepherd and His Sheep

    The Good Shepherd and His Sheep

    “He will feed his flock like a shepherd. He will carry the lambs in his arms, holding them close to his heart. He will gently lead the mother sheep with their young. (Isaiah 40:11 NLT)

    In our previous devotional, “Our Good Shepherd,” we learned about Jesus as the Good Shepherd and the unique qualities of a good shepherd.

     

    • He is willing to risk his life to protect his sheep.
    • He calls his sheep by name, and they know his voice.
    • He keeps his sheep safe.
    • He guides the sheep.
    • He corrects them when needed.
    • He always keeps an eye on his sheep.
    • He leads the sheep into green pastures where they can safely eat without worrying about our predators.
    • He leads them to calm waters where they can safely drink,
    • He goes before the sheep, and the sheep follow.
    • He waits by the gate with his staff to protect them against enemies.

     

    According to John 10:11-14, the good shepherd leads his sheep, finds food and water, as well as locates paths in the wilderness (see Psalm 23). The good shepherd stands between his sheep and danger and fights to protect them (John 10:11).

    Isaiah 40:11 gives us a beautiful description of Our Good Shepherd, “He will feed his flock like a shepherd. He will carry the lambs in his arms, holding them close to his heart. He will gently lead the mother sheep with their young. (Isaiah 40:11)

    If you recall, towards the end of our last devotion on Our Good Shepherd, I asked you some questions to reflect on regarding the previous devotional on the Good Shepherd to prepare us for today’s lesson.  We know Jesus is our Good Shepherd, but are all sheep the same? How does our Lord deal with us individually?

    Let’s first talk about the sheep. Believe it or not, not all sheep are the same. Some sheep are strong-willed and think the grass is always greener on the other side of the fence. They find a way to sneak away, and the shepherd must search for them and bring them back.

    The Shepherd Trilogy by W. Phillip Keller contains a story about one of his special sheep. He shared that he once owned a gorgeous ewe, the most beautiful sheep he had ever owned. He described her in the following way: “Her body was beautifully proportioned. She had a strong constitution and an excellent coat of wool. Her head was clean, alert, and well-set, with bright eyes. She bore sturdy lambs that matured rapidly. But despite all these attractive attributes, she had one pronounced fault. She was restless—discontent—a fence crawler.” (Keller, 1970, p. 25-26). So, because of all these attributes, he named her Mrs. Gad-about. She caused him more problems than practically the rest of the flock combined. She constantly looked for a way to feed on the other side of the fences or shoreline.

    Mr. Keller was a good shepherd; Mrs. Gadabout wasn’t lacking access to pasture. His fields were well-maintained. He was proud of it. He had the best grazing land in the district. The problem was the ewe, Mrs. Gadabout, was not happy with the provisions made for her by her shepherd. So, she would find a way to go over the fence that was there to keep her safe. But she wasn’t the only one. She was able to teach her lambs to follow her bad behavior. She continued to do it despite Mr. Keller’s repeated attempts to find her and bring her back; by doing so, she was setting a poor example for the rest of the flock.

    Unfortunately, Mr. Keller was forced to make a difficult decision if he wanted to save the rest of the flock. He loved her dearly, yet he had to get rid of her. Despite Mr. Keller’s affection for her and everything he had done to provide for her, Mrs. Gadaway was a sheep who was still unsatisfied and wanted more. Sound familiar?

    We, too, tend to turn away from God in search of something better. Does that mean that God will get rid of us, much like Mr. Keller had to get rid of his sheep? Absolutely not! Our Heavenly Father does not cast us out when we run away or wander around in search of a better life. He lovingly and patiently waits for us.

    Like some sheep, we sometimes think that the grass is always greener on the other side of the fence. Even while God loves us deeply, meets all of our needs, and protects us from harm, there are moments when we still want more. And much like that rebellious sheep, Mrs. Gad-about, we find a way to leave the comfortable place God has provided for us in search of something better. I know this to be true because I was one of those sheep.

    Jesus taught about the Prodigal Son in Luke 15:11-32. Like Mr. Keller’s sheep, the young son had it all. He had everything he wanted, but he thought the grass was greener on the other side. So, he packed his things and took his share of his father’s money, and left. Sadly, after facing many trials and challenges, he came to see that life outside of his father’s home was not better; he decided to return home. One of the amazing things about this parable is how the father never lost hope on the possibility of seeing his son again. When the father saw his son from a distance, he ran to embrace him. The same is true of our Good Shepherd. No matter what difficulties we face, He never gives up on us and lovingly brings us back to him.

    My second question was whether or not we believe that our Good Shepherd treats all His sheep the same? That is a difficult question.  From my personal experience, He treats all His sheep equally, but He also treats each of us as individuals. God knows all His children. He knows everything about us. Although His love is still the same, how He shows it may differ depending on our personalities. We know that Jesus loves all His sheep and gave His life for us. He knows our joys and sorrows. He knows when we stray. He leaves the 99 in search of the missing one. I was one of the missing sheep.

    I was so overcome with grief after my father passed away that I left my church because I didn’t feel like I was receiving any support from them. However, Jesus never stopped loving me. He was there when I faced trials and tribulations; He loved me through my disobedience, pain, and sorrow. Why? Because I am one of His sheep. He knew that I would one day return to Him, and when I did, He was waiting with open arms to embrace me and love me. Have I received any discipline while I was away? Absolutely! But those were the results of my actions. But through it all, God never stopped loving me. No matter how lost I was, I always felt His presence.

    I find comfort in knowing that Jesus, our Good Shepherd, is in us through the Holy Spirit. He is watching over us and protecting us from harm. I know He has everything under control, even when things don’t go the way we want. He loves us and has great plans for each one of us.

    Friends, I don’t know your current situation, but be encouraged that no matter what season in your life you are in, Jesus, our Good Shepherd is with you. As the Good Shepherd, He is working on your behalf, clearing any obstacles that stop you from finding peace and rest. Call out to Him, find shelter in his arms and let His Word bring you the comfort your heart needs. It is only in His presence that we find peace and rest.

     

    My Lord and my Shepherd, thank you for always watching over me and for not letting me stay away for too long. Thank you for leaving the 99 to go after me. Lord, I know that even when I can’t see what You’re doing in my life, You are working behind the scenes to prepare my heart so I may experience peace and rest that can only be found in You. In Your precious name, I praise You and give You all the glory. Amen.

     

    Reference

    Keller, Phillip W. (1970). The Shepherd Trilogy. Grand Rapids, MI: Zondervan.

    The Holy Bible, New Living Translation. (1996). Carol Stream, IL: Tyndale House Foundation.

    Schmidt, D. (2023).  Herd of Sheep [Photograph].

     

     

     

     

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  • Mi Buen Pastor

    Mi Buen Pastor

    Yo soy el buen pastor; conozco a mis ovejas, y ellas me conocen a mí, como también mi Padre me conoce a mí, y yo conozco al Padre. Así que sacrifico mi vida por las ovejas. Juan 10:14-15 NLT

     

    Mis amigos y yo decidimos estudiar el libro, Explorando lo Divino: Buscando a Dios en el Vino, la Lana y la Miel Silvestre, de Margaret Feinberg. El título despertó mi interés. Como soy una chica de ciudad que nunca ha estado en una granja, desconozco el significado espiritual de las ovejas, el vino y la miel silvestre. Pero estaba emocionada porque sabía que había una razón por la que Dios seleccionó este libro para que lo estudiáramos. Así comenzó la búsqueda.

     

    Mientras leía, me llamó la atención la importancia de las ovejas tanto en el Antiguo como en el Nuevo Testamento. Entonces, comencé a preguntarme qué significa saber que Jesús es nuestro Buen Pastor. Aunque sabía que la Sra. Feinberg nos ayudaría a descubrir esta verdad a través de su viaje, decidí comenzar investigando la importancia de una oveja y el papel de un pastor.

     

    Después de mucho estudio y lectura del relato de la Sra. Feinberg sobre su viaje para entender lo que significaba para ella un buen pastor, aprendí que ella trata de ayudarnos a entender a Dios y Su reino. Ella buscó intencionalmente formas de mostrarnos cómo Dios es nuestro Buen Pastor. Entendió las Escrituras más plenamente a medida que aprendió sobre la vida desde la perspectiva de una pastora.

     

    Según las Escrituras, las ovejas eran muy importantes para Abel, Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, David e incluso Jesús. Entonces, ¿por qué son tan importantes las ovejas y por qué Jesús se refiere a nosotros como ovejas? El viaje de la Sra. Feinberg le permitió visitar y quedarse por un tiempo en una granja donde una pastora cuidaba su rebaño de ovejas. Durante su visita, descubrió que un buen pastor conoce a sus ovejas y las ovejas reconocen su voz. Es necesaria una relación basada en la confianza mutua para poder escuchar la voz del Pastor. Después de todo, ¿por qué confiarías en alguien que no conoces? Con voz suave, la pastora llamó a cada oveja por su nombre. Su voz fue la única que provocó una respuesta de ellos.

     

    Luego nos cuenta sobre el día en que una de las ovejas desapareció. La pastora sabía que algo andaba mal. Entonces, dejando las otras ovejas al cuidado de otros cuidadores, ella fue en busca de la oveja. La pastora no se dio por vencida hasta que la encontró. La oveja estaba muy enferma y no podía cuidar a sus crías. La pastora la llamó por su nombre, la cargó sobre sus hombros y la llevó de regreso al granero para atender sus heridas.

     

    La oveja no permitió que nadie más se acercara a ella excepto la pastora. ¿Por qué? Porque la pastora y su oveja tenían un vínculo increíble de amor y confianza. Cuando la pastora trajo de regreso a la oveja herida y perdida, todos en la comunidad se regocijaron y le dieron la bienvenida a casa. Seguro que, igual que yo, te estarás preguntando cómo supo la pastora que faltaba una de sus ovejas. Lo sabía porque conocía a cada una de ellas por su nombre, y ellas conocían su voz.

    Y esto es exactamente lo que Jesús nos dijo en Juan 10:14-15:

    Yo soy el buen pastor; conozco a mis propias ovejas,

    y ellas me conocen a mí.

                Esta historia también me recordó la parábola que Jesús contó en Lucas 15 sobre el pastor que tenía cien ovejas y perdió una de ellas. Dejó las noventa y nueve para encontrar la oveja desaparecida. Luego, después de traerla a casa, compartió la gran noticia con sus amigos, quienes también se regocijaron por el hallazgo de la oveja.

    He leído Lucas 15 innumerables veces, pero solo después de leer la historia de la Sra. Feinberg, entiendo lo que Jesús quiso decir cuando dijo que Él era el buen Pastor. Él sabe nuestro nombre; Él cuida de nosotros, y ninguna de Sus ovejas se pierde sin que Él lo sepa. Hay un fuerte vínculo de confianza y amor entre Jesús y sus ovejas. Para proteger a cada oveja del daño y evitar perder alguna, el Pastor debe vigilar de cerca a cada una de sus ovejas. Jesús hace exactamente eso por cada uno de nosotros.

     

    Se dice que los ojos del Señor se mueven “de un lado a otro de la tierra” en 2 Crónicas 16:9, buscando apoyar con fuerza a aquellos cuyos corazones son completamente suyos. Tal vez por eso Jesús dijo: “¿No se venden cinco pajarillos por dos centavos? Sin embargo, ninguno de ellos está olvidado delante de Dios” y declaró: “Y en cuanto a ustedes, cada cabello de sus cabezas está contado” (Lucas 12:6-7 NLT).

     

    Dios nos ama tanto que Él mira cuidadosamente todo. Él está constantemente explorando, notando los detalles más pequeños. Amigos, es una verdad asombrosa saber que nuestro Dios, el Dios del universo, nos ama tanto que siempre nos está cuidando. No está tan lejos como algunas personas piensan. No, Él reside dentro de cada uno de nosotros. Él nos está cuidando, corrigiéndonos cuando lo necesitamos y cuidándonos cuando estamos heridos. Ese es nuestro Dios.

     

    Entonces, ¿cuáles son las cualidades de un buen pastor?

    • Está dispuesto a arriesgar su vida para proteger a sus ovejas.
    • A sus ovejas llama por su nombre, y ellas conocen su voz.
    • Él mantiene a salvo a sus ovejas.
    • Él guía a las ovejas.
    • Las corrige cuando es necesario.
    • Siempre vigila a sus ovejas.
    • Él lleva las ovejas a pastos verdes donde pueden comer con seguridad sin preocuparse por depredadores.
    • Las conduce a aguas tranquilas donde pueden beber con seguridad,
    • Él va delante de las ovejas y las ovejas lo siguen.
    • Él espera junto a la puerta con su bastón para protegerlas contra sus enemigos.

     

    Conocer a Dios como mi Buen Pastor me obliga a admitir cuánto lo necesito y a reconocer cuán desvalida estoy sin Él. Simplemente significa que debo conocer y confiar completamente en mi Pastor. En el

    Salmo 23, David sabía que Dios era su buen Pastor:

                Dios me obliga a acostarme en pastos verdes porque tengo la tendencia a saltarme las cosas buenas, incluido el descanso que Él gentilmente proporciona. Me conduce junto a aguas tranquilas, lugares especiales donde Su Espíritu se cierne, refrescando el mío; en la quietud, me vuelvo más sensible a Su voz, a mi propia voz ya los que me rodean. En este lugar, Él

    restaura mi alma de la tensión de la vida diaria.

    Mi Buen Pastor me guiará por los caminos de la justicia, no los que trato de allanar por mí mismo sino los que Dios ya ha preparado. Aunque habrá momentos en que debo caminar por algunos valles terribles, no tengo miedo porque conozco a mi Buen Pastor y Él me conoce a mí. Él siempre está cerca. Sus ojos están constantemente escaneando, por lo que ni el depredador ni la pestilencia podrán atraparme.

     

    A veces Su vara me corrige, y otras veces Su vara me salva. Cuando me encuentro en problemas, Él nunca me regaña; en cambio, Él me guía suavemente de regreso al camino correcto. Otras veces, como ahora, Él lleva mi frágil cuerpo y me nutre mientras lucho contra una infección no identificada. Mi Buen Pastor está siempre conmigo. Él nunca se va de mi lado. Él me conoce, y yo soy suyo.

    Ánimo, amigos, porque siempre están a salvo en los brazos de nuestro Buen Pastor cuando puedan venir lobos y otros depredadores. Recuerde, el Pastor cuidará de nosotros mientras estemos bajo su cuidado. Él nos atenderá cuando estemos en necesidad, y Su amor por nosotros nunca fallará.

     

    Amigos, este es solo el comienzo de nuestro viaje para conocer a Jesús como nuestro buen Pastor. Pero aquí hay un pensamiento para que lo consideremos hasta que nos volvamos a encontrar. Sabemos que Jesús es nuestro Buen Pastor, pero ¿son todas las ovejas iguales? ¿Cómo trata nuestro Señor con nosotros individualmente? Bendito seas, y te veré en el campo.

     

    Señor, gracias por este maravilloso recordatorio y lección. Siempre supe que eres nuestro Buen Pastor, pero hoy entiendo lo que significa ser un Buen Pastor. Gracias por las muchas veces que tuviste que dejar las 99 para buscarme. Y cuando me encontraste, me pusiste sobre tus hombros y me cuidaste hasta que volví a la vida. Tú eres mi escudo, mi protector, mi Salvador, mi Señor y el amante de mi alma. Evita que deambule. Mantenme cerca de Tu corazón. En el nombre de Jesús, te alabo y te agradezco, amén.

    Referencias

    Feinberg, Margaret, (2009). Explorando lo divino: mi búsqueda de Dios en el vino, la lana y la miel silvestre. Grand Rapids, Míchigan, Zondervan

    La Santa Biblia, Nueva Traducción Viviente. (1996). Wheaton, IL: Fundación Tyndale House.

    Traductor: Jesus Manuel Perez

     

     

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  • Our Good Shepherd

    Our Good Shepherd

    “I am the good shepherd; I know my own sheep, and they know me, just as my Father knows me and I know the Father. So I sacrifice my life for the sheep.” John 10:14-15 NLT

    My friends and I decided to study the book “Scouting the Divine: Searching for God in Wine, Wool, and Wild Honey” by Margaret Feinberg. The title piqued my interest. Since I’m a city girl who has never been on a farm, I am unaware of the spiritual significance of sheep, wine, and wild honey. But I was excited because I knew there was a reason God selected this book for us to study. So the quest began.

    While reading, I was struck by the importance of sheep in both the Old and New Testaments. So, I began to wonder what it means to know that Jesus is our Good Shepherd. Although I knew Ms. Feinberg was going to help us discover this truth through her journey; I decided to begin by researching the importance of a sheep and the role of a shepherd.

    After much study and reading of Ms. Feinberg’s account of her journey to understand what a good shepherd meant for herself, I learned that she tries to help us to understand God and His kingdom. She intentionally searched for ways to show us how God is our Good Shepherd. She understood the scriptures more fully as she learned about life from a shepherdess perspective.

    According to the Scriptures, sheep were very important to Abel, Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, David, and even Jesus. So, why are sheep so important, and why does Jesus refer to us as sheep? Ms. Feinberg’s journey allowed her to visit and stay for a while on a farm where a shepherdess tended her flock of sheep. During her visit, she discovered that a good shepherd knows her sheep, and the sheep recognize her voice. A relationship based on mutual trust is necessary in order to hear the Shepherd’s voice. After all, why would you trust someone you don’t know? In a soft voice, the shepherdess called each sheep by name. Her voice was the only one that elicited a response from them.

    She then tells us about the day one of the sheep went missing. The shepherdess knew something was wrong. So, leaving the other sheep in the care of other caretakers, she went in search of the sheep. The shepherdess didn’t give up until she found it. The ewe was very ill and unable to care for her young. The shepherdess called her by name, put her on her shoulders, and carried her back to the barn to tend to her injuries.

    The sheep did not allow anyone else to approach her except the shepherdess. Why? Because the shepherdess and her sheep had an incredible bond of love and trust. When the shepherdess brought the lost, wounded sheep back, everyone in the community rejoiced and welcomed her home. I’m sure you’re probably wondering just as I did as to how the shepherdess knew one of her sheep was missing. She knew because she knew each of them by name, and they knew her voice.

    And this is exactly what Jesus told us in John 10:14-15, “I am the good shepherd; I know my own sheep, and they know me.”

    This story also reminded me of the parable Jesus told in Luke 15 about the Shepherd who had a hundred sheep and lost one of them. He left the ninety-nine to find the missing sheep. Then, after bringing it home, he shared the great news with his friends, who also rejoiced about the sheep being found.

    I’ve read Luke 15 countless times, but only after reading Ms. Feinberg’s story did I understand what Jesus meant when He said He was the good Shepherd. He knows our name; He cares for us, and not one of His sheep goes missing without Him knowing. There’s a strong bond of trust and love between Jesus and His sheep. To protect each sheep from harm and avoid losing any, the Shepherd must keep a close eye on every one of his sheep. Jesus does exactly that for each one of us.

    The Lord’s eyes are said to be moving “to and fro throughout the earth” in 2 Chronicles 16:9, searching to strongly support those whose hearts are completely His. Maybe that’s why Jesus said, “Are not five sparrows sold for two cents? Yet not one of them is forgotten before God” and declared, “The very hairs of their head are numbered” (Luke 12:6-7, New Living Translation).

    God loves us so much that He carefully watches everything. He is constantly scouting—noticing the tiniest details.

    Friends, this is an amazing truth to know that our God, the God of the universe, loves us so much that He is always watching over us. He’s not as far as some people think. No, He resides inside every one of us. He is watching over us, correcting us when we need it, and nursing us when we are wounded. That is our God.

    So, what are the qualifications of a good shepherd?

    • He is willing to risk his life to protect his sheep.
    • He calls his sheep by name, and they know his voice.
    • He keeps his sheep safe.
    • He guides the sheep.
    • He corrects them when needed.
    • He always keeps an eye on his sheep.
    • He leads the sheep into green pastures where they can safely eat without worrying about our predators.
    • He leads them to calm waters where they can safely drink,
    • He goes before the sheep, and the sheep follow.
    • He waits by the gate with his staff to protect them against their enemies.

    Knowing God as my Good Shepherd forces me to admit how much I need Him and to acknowledge how helpless I am without Him. It simply means that I must know and trust my Shepherd completely. In Psalm 23, David knew that God was his good Shepherd:

    God forcibly makes me lie down in green pastures because I have a tendency to skip the good things—including the rest He gently provides. He leads me beside quiet waters—special places where His Spirit hovers, refreshing my own; in the stillness, I become more sensitive to His voice, my own voice, and to those around me. In this place, He restores my soul from the strain of daily life.

    My Good Shepherd will guide me along the paths of righteousness, not the ones I try to pave for myself but the ones that God has already prepared. Even though there will be times when I must walk through some terrifying valleys, I am not afraid because I know my Good Shepherd, and He knows me. He is always near. His eyes are constantly scanning, so neither the predator nor the pestilence will be able to get me.

    Sometimes His rod corrects me, and other times His staff saves me. When I find myself in trouble, He never scolds me; instead, He gently guides me back onto the right path. Other times, like now, He carries my frail body and nurtures me as I battle an unidentified infection. My Good Shepherd is always with me. He never leaves my side. He knows me, and I am His.

    Be encouraged, friends, because you are always safe in the arms of our Good Shepherd when wolves and other predators may come. Remember, the Shepherd will take care of us as long as we are in His care. He will tend to us when we are in need, and His love for us will never fail.

    Friends, this is only the beginning of our journey to get to know Jesus as our good Shepherd. But here is a thought for us to consider until we meet again. We know Jesus is our Good Shepherd, but are all sheep the same? How does our Lord deal with us individually? Be blessed, and I’ll see you on the field.

    Lord, thank You for this wonderful reminder and lesson. I always knew You were our Good Shepherd, but today I understand what it means to be a Good Shepherd. Thank You for the many times You had to leave the 99 to look for me. And when You found me, You put me on Your shoulders and nursed me back to life. You are my shield, my protector, my Savior, my Lord, and the lover of my soul. Keep me from wandering around. Keep me close to Your heart. In Jesus’ name, I praise You and thank You, amen.

    References

    Feinberg, Margaret, (2009). Scouting the Divine-My Search for God in Wine, Wool, and Wild Honey. Grand Rapids, Michigan, Zondervan

    The Holy Bible, New Living Translation. (1996). Wheaton, IL: Tyndale House Foundation.

     

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  • Our Unchanging Father

    Our Unchanging Father

    We were able to learn a few of our Father’s characteristics in our devotional “You Can Count on Me.”  Our Father is seen as all-knowing, all-powerful, ever-present, and always faithful to His Word throughout the Scriptures. Today, we’re going to get to know our Father more intimately.

     

    1. God loves us and demonstrated it to us by sending Jesus to die in our place and receive the punishment we deserved. 1 John 4:10 says, “This is love: not that we loved God, but that he loved us and sent his Son as an atoning sacrifice for our sins” (New International Version)

     

    Furthermore, we learn from Psalm 100:5, “For the Lord is good, and his love endures forever; his faithfulness continues through all generations.” In other words, our Father’s love for us will never end. I don’t know if you’ve ever felt lonely or unloved, but let me assure you that knowing how much my Father loves me gives me the strength to face anything. For I know how much He loves me.

     

    1. God never intended to leave us alone. He promised to send His Holy Spirit, our counselor, our teacher, and our guide to remind us who we are and to Whom we belong. He also promised to supply all our needs. God will never give us a task or assignment without also providing us with the tools to complete it (our calling). And I am well aware of this. I’ve never been a writer. Aside from school assignments, I’ve never written anything before. In fact, writing was never my best subject in school. So, you can imagine how I felt when the Lord called me to write for His glory during COVID. He wanted me to provide encouragement to those who needed it and to show them the Father’s heart. All my mistakes in life have been transformed into His messages. How awesome is our Lord!

     

    1. Jesus nailed our past, present and future sins on the cross when He took our place on the Cross. He received the punishment that we deserved. He did it all out of love for us. Therefore, if God is able to forgive my sins, then who am I to judge others and refuse to forgive their wrongdoings?

     

    1 John 1:9 states, “If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive and purify us from all unrighteousness.” This is exactly what He did for you and me. The Lord no longer remembers our sins, “as far as the east is from the west, so far has he removed our transgressions from us” (Ps.103:12).

     

    No matter what our circumstances are, the Lord wants us to live and rest confident and assured that He is for us. We see this promise in Ephesians 2:7  “In order that in the coming ages he might show the incomparable riches of his grace, expressed in his kindness to us in Christ Jesus.”

     

    So, friends, remember who God is and how much He loves you whenever you feel unsure or doubtful. When we know that we are loved, our circumstances cannot overwhelm us because God’s plans for you and I are good. Let us just wait for His timing. It will be worth the wait.

     

    Father, You know that it has taken me a while to truly understand how deep is Your love for me. Thank You for Your love and Grace. And Father, help me to see people and circumstances through Your eyes because when I do, I know the best is yet to come. In Your precious name, I thank You for Your love and for being a constant in my life. In Jesus’ name, I praise You and give You glory, Ament!

     

     

     

    Reference

    The Holy Bible, New International Version. (1973/2011). Grand Rapids, MI: Zondervan.

     

     

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  • Ustedes pueden contar conmigo (You can count on Me)

    Ustedes pueden contar conmigo (You can count on Me)

                Así que, hermanos, mediante la sangre de Jesús, tenemos plena libertad para entrar en el Lugar Santísimo, por el camino nuevo y vivo que él nos ha abierto a través de la cortina, es decir, a través de su cuerpo; y tenemos además un gran sacerdote al frente de la familia de Dios. Acerquémonos, pues, a Dios con corazón sincero y con la plena seguridad que da la fe, interiormente purificados de una conciencia culpable y exteriormente lavados con agua pura. Mantengamos firme la esperanza que profesamos, porque fiel es el que hizo la promesa. Hebreos 10:19-23 NIV

    ¿Con qué frecuencia nuestros familiares, amigos, y nosotros mismos decimos: Puedes contar conmigo? Pero, ¿realmente lo decimos en serio? ¿Estamos ahí cuando la gente más nos necesita y las cosas van mal? ¿Llamas o envías mensajes de texto para preguntar cómo están? o para decirles: Estoy pensando en ti y rezando por ti.

    Seamos realistas, nos involucramos en nuestras rutinas y obligaciones diarias y olvidamos que tenemos un llamado: Amar a las personas, así como Él nos ama”.

    He escuchado estas palabras muchas veces a lo largo de mi caminar cristiano. Yo mismo solía decir cosas así. Pero, lamentablemente, cuando yo u otras personas necesitábamos escuchar esas palabras, había silencio.

    Hoy, el Señor me guió a leer, durante mi tiempo devocional con Jesús, Hebreos 10:19-23, titulado: Un llamado a perseverar en la fe.

    ¿Por qué el Señor me recuerda este pasaje? ¿Qué quería que yo recordara o aprendiera? Cuando Jesús tomó nuestro lugar en la cruz, el velo que nos separaba de nuestro Padre se rasgó. Gracias a la sangre de Jesús, podemos entrar al Lugar Santísimo, donde podemos sentarnos con el Padre cuando nuestros corazones están quebrantados y decirle cómo nos sentimos.

    A lo largo de las Escrituras, hemos aprendido las muchas características únicas de nuestro Padre. Estas son algunas de las cosas

    que el Señor me recordó a hoy.

    Dios es fiel, aunque se considere normal que las personas entren y salgan de nuestras vidas a medida que una estación cambia a la siguiente. Pero nuestro Padre es no es así en absoluto. Él nunca cambia.

    Hebreos 13:8 dice: Jesucristo es el mismo ayer y hoy y por los siglos.

    Dios es omnisciente.. Él sabe lo que necesitamos y lo que nos está pasando en cada momento. Nada lo sorprende.

    Proverbios 15:3 dice: Los ojos del Señor están en todas partes, vigilando a los malos y a los buenos. Nada acerca de nosotros está oculto para Él.

                Dios es omnipotente. Nuestro Padre tiene autoridad sobre todo, aquí en la tierra, como en el cielo. Nada puede jamás escapar de Su control. No hay nada que Él no pueda hacer. Job se dio cuenta del poder de Dios en Job 42:2: Sé que todo lo puedes; ningún propósito tuyo puede ser frustrado.

                Dios es omnipresente. No hay nadie ni nada fuera de la presencia del Señor. Salmo 139:7-13, David dijo: ¿A dónde podría alejarme de tu Espíritu? ¿A dónde podría huir de tu presencia?
    Si subiera al cielo, allí estás tú; si tendiera mi lecho en el fondo del abismo, también estás allí.

    Si me elevara sobre las alas del alba, o me estableciera en los extremos del mar,
    aun allí tu mano me guiaría,     ¡me sostendría tu mano derecha!

    Y, si dijera: «Que me oculten las tinieblas; que la luz se haga noche en torno mío»,
    ni las tinieblas serían oscuras para ti, y aun la noche sería clara como el día. ¡Lo mismo son para ti las tinieblas que la luz!

    Tú creaste mis entrañas; me formaste en el vientre de mi madre.

    Todo el espacio y el tiempo están a la vista de Dios. Incluso nos conoció antes de que naciéramos. ¡Qué maravilloso es nuestro Padre! Además de estos maravillosos rasgos, sé que nuestro Padre Celestial esfiel a Su Palabra y nunca miente.

    En el Libro de Tito(1:1-2), Pablo declara:

                Pablo, siervo de Dios y apóstol de Jesucristo, llamado para que, mediante la fe, los elegidos de Dios lleguen a conocer la verdadera religión. Nuestra esperanza es la vida eterna, la cual Dios, que no miente, ya había prometido antes de la creación.

    Además, Números 23:19 dice: Dios no es un simple mortal
    para mentir y cambiar de parecer.     ¿Acaso no cumple lo que promete ni lleva a cabo lo que dice?

    Saber quién es Dios nos da el consuelo de saber que podemos poner nuestra confianza en Él y que, incluso cuando las cosas no salen según lo planeado o nuestras oraciones no son respondidas de inmediato, podemos estar seguros de que Él nos ayudará en Su tiempo.

    Amigos, el carácter de Dios no se ve afectado por el tiempo, el lugar, las personas o las circunstancias. Podemos confiar en que Él es fiel y siempre cumplirá Sus promesas. Así que cuando te encuentres en una situación en la que te sientas atrapado, abandonado, decepcionado por los demás, o incluso sin que te escuchen, anímate sabiendo que, aunque las personas, las circunstancias e incluso nuestros planes pueden cambiar, Dios, nuestro amoroso Padre Celestial, nunca cambia ni nos fallará. Él es la única constante en nuestras vidas. Podemos contar con Él ahora y para siempre.

    Padre, gracias por recordarme hoy que siempre estás conmigo, incluso cuando no puedo verlo. Gracias por nunca dejarme o abandonarme a pesar de mis acciones. Señor, gracias por ser la constante en mi vida. No sé dónde estaría si no estuvieras en mi vida. Te amo y te alabo, Señor, hoy y siempre. Hágase tu voluntad en mi vida de forma permanente. En el nombre de Jesús, te alabo y te doy toda la gloria.

     

    Referencia

    La Santa Biblia, Nueva Versión Internacional. (1985/2011). Grand Rapids, MI: Zondervan.

    Traductor: Jesus Manuel Perez

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

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  • You Can Count on Me

    You Can Count on Me

    Therefore, brothers and sisters, since we have the confidence to enter the Most Holy Place by the blood of Jesus, by a new and living way opened for us through the curtain, that is, his body, and since we have a great priest over the house of God, let us draw near to God with a sincere heart and with the full assurance that faith brings, having our hearts sprinkled to cleanse us from a guilty conscience and having our bodies washed with pure water. Let us hold unswervingly to the hope we profess, for he who promised is faithful. (Hebrew 10:19-23 NIV)

    How often have our family and friends told us, “You can count on me.’? But do we truly mean it? Are we there when people need us the most and things go wrong? Do you call or text to ask how you are? I’m thinking about you and praying for you. Let’s face it, we get involved in our daily routines and obligations and forget that we have a calling “to love people, just like He loves us.”

    I have heard these words many times throughout my Christian walk. I used to say things like that myself. But sadly, when I or other people needed to hear such words, there was silence.

    Today, the Lord led me to read Hebrews 10:19-23, titled “A Call to Persevere in Faith,” during my quiet time with Jesus. Why is the Lord reminding me of this passage? What did He want me to remember or learn? When Jesus took our place on the cross, the veil separating us from our Father was torn down. Because of the blood of Jesus, we are able to enter the Holy of Holies, where we can sit with the Father when our hearts are broken and tell Him how we feel.

    Throughout the Scriptures, we have learned the many unique characteristics of our Father. Here are some of the things the Lord reminded me of today.

    1. God is faithful. When considering it to be normal when people come and go from our lives as one season changes into the next. But our Father is not like that at all. He never changes. Hebrews 13:8 says, “Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever.” He is faithful.

     

    1. God is omniscient. He knows what we need and what is happening to us every moment. Nothing surprises Him. Proverbs 15:3 says, “The eyes of the Lord are everywhere, keeping watch on the wicked and the good.” Nothing about us is hidden from Him.

     

    1. God is omnipotent. Our Father has authority over everything here on earth, as in heaven. Nothing can ever escape His control. There is nothing He cannot do. Job realized God’s power in Job 42:2, “I know that you can do all things; no purpose of yours can be thwarted.”

     

    1. God is omnipresent. There is no one or anything outside the Lord’s presence. Psalm 139:7-13, David said, “Where can I go from your Spirit? Where can I flee from your presence? If I go up to the heavens, you are there; if I make my bed in the depths, you are there. If I rise on the wings of the dawn, if I settle on the far side of the sea, even there, your hand will guide me, your right hand will hold me fast. If I say, “Surely the darkness will hide me, and the light become night around me,” even the darkness will not be dark to you; the night will shine like the day, for darkness is as light to you. For you created my inmost being, you knit me together in my mother’s womb.”

     

    All space and time are within God’s sight. He even knew us before we were born. How awesome our Father is! In addition to these wonderful traits, I know that our Heavenly Father is faithful to His Word and never lies. In the Book of Titus, Paul states, “Paul, a servant of God and an apostle of Jesus Christ to further the faith of God’s elect and their knowledge of the truth that leads to godliness— in the hope of eternal life, which God, who does not lie, promised before the beginning of time,” (1:1-2)

     

    Further, Numbers 23:19 states, “God is not human, that he should lie, not a human being, that he should change his mind. Does he speak and then not act? Does he promise and not fulfill?” Knowing who God is gives us the comfort in knowing we can put our trust in Him and that, even when things don’t go as planned, or our prayers aren’t answered right away, we can be confident that He will help us in His time.

     

    Friends, God’s character is not affected by time, place, people, or circumstances. We can trust that He is faithful and will always keep His promises. So when you find yourself in a situation where you feel trapped, abandoned, disappointed by others, or even unheard, be encouraged in the knowledge that while people, circumstances, and even our plans may change, God, our loving Heavenly Father, never changes nor will He fail us. He is the only constant in our lives. We can count on Him both now and forever.

     

    Father, thank you for reminding me today that You are with me always, even when I can’t see it. Thank You for never leaving me or forsaking me despite my actions. Lord, thank You for being the constant in my life. I don’t know where I would be if You weren’t in my life. I love You and praise You, Lord, today and forever. Let Your will be done in my life permanently. In Jesus’ name, I praise You and give You all glory.

     

    Reference

    The Holy Bible, New International Version. (1985/2011). Grand Rapids, MI: Zondervan.

     

     

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  • Unidos en Cristo (United in Christ)

    Unidos en Cristo (United in Christ)

    Y en unión con Cristo Jesús, Dios nos resucitó

    y nos hizo sentar con él en las regiones celestiales,

    para mostrar en los tiempos venideros

    la incomparable riqueza de su gracia,

    que por su bondad derramó sobre nosotros en Cristo Jesús.  Efesios 2:6-7 NVI

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                ¿Qué significa estar unido a Cristo?

                Estamos unidos con Cristo por su amor y misericordia. Debido al sacrificio de Jesús, el pecado ya no tiene poder para mantenernos cautivos; en cambio, podemos ser vencidos por el poder de Dios.

    Ayer vimos la condición de nuestros corazones antes de que Jesús viniera y nos rescatara. Jesús vino a nosotros cuando estábamos muertos en nuestros pecados y transgresiones. Así como Jesús resucitó de entre los muertos, nuestros corazones muertos han resucitado de la tumba de nuestros pecados. Somos bautizados una vez que aceptamos a Jesús como nuestro Señor y Salvador. Nuestro bautismo es una hermosa imagen de lo que sucede durante la conversión cuando somos sepultados a la semejanza de Su muerte y resucitados para caminar en la novedad de la vida.

    Hemos sido crucificados con Cristo, y nuestro pecado ha sido puesto a muerte. (Romanos 6:5-11 y Gálatas 2:20) Pablo nos dice en estos pasajes que hemos sido vivificados en Cristo y resucitados con Él. Así como fuimos crucificados con Cristo, también somos presentados con Él y sentados con Él en los lugares Celestiales.

    Vaya, ¿qué significa esto? ¿Cómo podemos resucitar con Él si todavía estamos en la Tierra? Pablo está tratando de decirnos que como hijos de Dios, somos inseparables de Jesús. Por lo tanto, aunque estemos aquí en la Tierra, estamos unidos a Aquel que ya está reinando en los cielos. Entonces, aunque enfrentamos muchas pruebas y tribulaciones, estamos seguros de que estamos en Él, y Él está en nosotros, y nada puede separarnos de Su amor.

    Pablo nos asegura en Romanos 8:25-39: ¿Quién nos separará del amor de Cristo? ¿La tribulación o las penalidades o la persecucióno el hambre o la desnudez o el peligro o la espada?

    Como está escrito: Por causa de ti, enfrentamos la muerte todo el día; somos tenidos por ovejas de matadero.

                No, en todas estas cosas somos más que vencedores por medio de Aquel que nos amó. Porque estoy convencido de que ni la muerte ni la vida, ni los ángeles ni los demonios, ni el presente ni el futuro, ni ningún poder, ni lo alto  ni lo profundo, ni ninguna otra cosa en toda la creación, podrá separarnos del amor de Dios que es en Cristo Jesús nuestro Señor.

    Amigos, nada nos podrá separar del amor de Dios. La sangre de Jesús nos sella. Es una transacción única. Pero estar unidos a Jesús cambia la forma en que vivimos. ¿Por qué? Estamos llamados a vivir una vida digna de Su llamado porque, aunque nuestra carne estaba muerta, a través de Jesús, somos vivificados. Ya no debemos ceder a los deseos de nuestra carne y, en cambio, debemos vivir una vida digna de su llamado. Por lo tanto, estamos llamados a buscar primero el Reino de Dios y crucificar nuestra carne diariamente.

    ¿Es fácil? ¡Absolutamente no! Sin embargo, el Espíritu Santo nos enseñará y nos guiará para vivir una vida que es digna del llamado de Dios cuando ponemos a Jesús primero y permitimos que Él nos guíe.

    Amados, Jesús pagó la pena por nosotros. El pecado nos puso en prisión y cerró la puerta detrás de nosotros. Pero entonces Jesús vino a pagar la multa por nosotros. Amigos, alguien necesitaba morir por nuestros pecados, pasados, presentes y futuros. Entonces, Jesús vino y se ofreció a sí mismo como un sacrificio vivo. Él nos liberó pagando la pena por nuestros pecados.

    ¿Qué haremos entonces? ¿Aceptamos la fianza y quedamos libres pero entonces, incluso después de salir de la cárcel permanecemos encarcelados y en servidumbre por el resto de nuestra vida?

    Sé que no me quedé en esa prisión. Acepté el sacrificio perfecto de Jesús y salí corriendo. Ser liberado y perdonado, sin embargo no me da permiso para seguir viviendo como lo hice. Tuve que hacer cambios en mi vida.

    Ojalá pudiera decir que el cambio sucede de la noche a la mañana. ¡Pero no! Aunque mi corazón aceptó el sacrificio de Jesús, debo rendirme diariamente al Espíritu Santo y permitirle que me cambie y me moldee a la imagen de Jesús.

    Mi pastor Joaquín siempre decía:

              Nuestros corazones se transforman cuando aceptamos a Jesús en nuestro corazón, pero la transformación de la mente requiere tiempo. Necesitamos permitir que el Espíritu Santo nos muestre quiénes somos en Cristo, quién es Él y cuánto nos ama.

    Entonces, dime, querido amigo, ¿cómo cambia tu forma de vivir el darte cuenta de que hemos sido unidos con Cristo? Cuando las personas se encuentran contigo e interactúan contigo, ¿a quién ven? ¿Están viendo el antiguo tú o están viendo a Jesús viviendo a través de ti?

    Padre, gracias por recordarme que Tú elegiste salvarme sin importar cuán desordenada esté mi vida. Soy una nueva creación, y he sido salvada por gracia. No por nada que yo haya hecho, sino por lo que Jesús ha hecho por mí. Gracias por Tu amor, gracia y misericordia inagotables. Señor, continúa transformándome para que otros puedan verte viviendo tu vida a través de mí, Señor Jesús. En tu nombre doy toda alabanza, amén!

    Referencia Lucado, Max (2013). Dios usará esto para bien. Nashville, Tennessee por Thomas Nelson, Inc.

    Traductor: Jesus Manuel Perez

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  • La disciplina de la tranquilidad (The Discipline of Quietness)

    La disciplina de la tranquilidad (The Discipline of Quietness)

    “¿Por qué estoy desanimado? ¿Por qué mi corazón está tan triste? ¡Pondré mi esperanza en Dios! Lo alabaré de nuevo: ¡mi Salvador y mi Dios! ” (Salmo 42: 5-6)

    ¿Cómo está tu alma?

    En este versículo, el salmista se habla a sí mismo. Su alma está desanimada (habiendo perdido la confianza o el entusiasmo; descorazonada). Su alma está en angustia y confusión.

    No puedo evitar pensar en las muchas veces que mi alma se desanimó hasta el punto de desesperación. ¿Cuántas veces me retiré a un lugar tranquilo para tratar de calmar mi corazón, mi alma? Pero no importa a dónde fuera, mi alma no podía experimentar la paz.

    La verdad es que nuestra alma anhela descansar. No importa cuántas horas durmamos o tratemos de irnos a un lugar tranquilo. Si nuestra alma no descansa, nunca podremos tener paz. ¿Alguna vez se acostó y trató de dormir, solo para descubrir que su mente y su corazón no están en reposo? ¿Estás lleno de ansiedad y preocupación?

    Desafortunadamente, vivimos en un mundo lleno de ruidos y distracciones. Pero el ruido en nuestra mente es lo que nos mantiene despiertos por la noche. A veces se vuelve tan fuerte que limita nuestra capacidad para prestar atención y concentrarnos.

    Recuerdo haber leído sobre el profeta Elías. Al final de todas sus victorias, estaba agotado, deprimido y desesperado. Durante este período, sintió que Dios estaba a un millón de millas de distancia. Su alma estaba turbada e inquieta.

    Entonces, ¿qué hizo Elías? Huyó a una cueva; a un lugar oscuro, aislado y tranquilo para descansar. ¿Suena familiar? Sin embargo, este lugar no le dio a Elías lo que necesitaba. De hecho, solo se sumó a su confusión y depresión. No importa cuán silenciosa y aislada fuera la cueva, el alma de Elías no descansaba.

    Pero algo asombroso le sucedió a Elías en ese lugar tranquilo, oscuro y aislado. Dios lo encontró y le preguntó: “¿Qué estás haciendo aquí, Elías? Sal de esta cueva “.

    Dios encontró a Elías en su punto más bajo y amorosamente lo elevó y lo restauró. Elías conocía la fuerza y el poder de Dios. Pero nunca había experimentado la tranquila voz de Dios. Algunos de nosotros, como Elías, necesitamos cambiar de posición y cambiar nuestra forma de pensar para poder recibir lo que el Señor tiene para nosotros.

    Como Elías, yo también he experimentado temporadas en las que mi alma estaba llena de miedos y preocupaciones. No importaba a dónde fuera o cuánto traté de calmar los miedos, las dudas y la soledad, no pude encontrar descanso.

    Pero un día, clamé a Jesús y me encontró en medio de mi tormenta. No, no estuvo en el ruido, ni en el trueno, ni en un evento sobrenatural. Más bien, lo encontre con una voz tranquila que me susurraba: “No estás sola. Estoy contigo.”

    Amigos, no sé lo que pueden estar experimentando hoy, pero puedo asegurarle que no están solos. Nuestro Señor está allí en medio de nuestras tormentas. Todo lo que tenemos que hacer es escuchar.

    El salmista escribió una hermosa canción en el Salmo 46 para recordarnos al Dios que está siempre presente incluso en los peores momentos. La canción dice así:

    Salmo 46: 1-3- “Dios es nuestro refugio y fortaleza, una ayuda muy presente en los problemas. Por tanto, no temeremos, aunque la tierra sea removida, y aunque los montes sean llevados al medio del mar; aunque bramen y se turben sus aguas, aunque tiemblen los montes con su hinchazón. Selah ”(pausa y reflexiona).

    Salmo 46: 10-11- “Estad quietos, y sabed que yo soy Dios; ¡Seré exaltado entre las naciones, seré exaltado en la tierra! El Señor de los ejércitos está con nosotros; el Dios de Jacob es nuestro refugio. Selah ”(pausa y reflexiona)

    “Quédense quietos y reconozcan que yo soy Dios…” En la quietud… hay un conocimiento.

    Amigos, hagamos una pausa y reflexionemos sobre esta hermosa nota de gracia. Y busquemos descanso para nuestras almas cansadas. Porque nuestro hermoso Jesús está siempre presente. Selah.

     

    Reference

    Las citas de las Escrituras estan tomadas de la Santa Biblia, Nueva Version- International-Copyright 1973

    Translator: Jesus Manuel Perez

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  • El pan de vida (The Bread of Life)

    El pan de vida (The Bread of Life)

    Entonces Jesús declaró:

    Yo soy el pan de vida.

    El que a mí viene nunca pasará hambre,

    y el que en mí cree nunca tendrá sed.

    Juan 6:35 NVI

                ¿Te gusta el pan? ¿Te gusta comer pan? ¿Sabías que antes de que se rompa el pan, éste debe pasar por un proceso? ¿Sabías que el pan debe pasar por un proceso antes de que pueda ser el pan que tú y yo disfrutamos comer?

    La semilla primero debe plantarse antes de que pueda crecer. Luego, cuando el grano está listo, debe ser cosechado y molido en harina. Finalmente, antes de que el grano se convierta en pan, debe pasar por el horno. Hacer pan requiere plantar, cosechar y calentar.

    Jesús soportó un proceso similar. Él nació en este mundo. Fue cortado, magullado y golpeado en la era de la caballería. Soportó la ira de Dios por nosotros. Él voluntariamente dio Su vida para reconciliarnos con Dios. Fue muerto en el cuerpo pero vivificado en el espíritu. (1 Pedro 3:18 NVI)

                En Juan 6:35, Jesús dijo: Yo soy el pan de vida. El que viene a mí nunca pasará hambre, y el que cree en mí nunca tendrá sed.

    Así que Jesús aseguró a la multitud hambrienta que Él era el pan de vida.

                A lo largo de la Biblia, el pan se usa como una representación simbólica de la provisión sustentadora de vida de Dios. Así que cuando Jesús dijo a las multitudes hambrientas que él era el Pan de Vida, estaba enseñando a sus seguidores que solo Él era su fuente confiable de vida espiritual, tanto en este mundo como en la vida eterna venidera.

    Pero para obtener esta bendición necesitamos recibirla como una barra de pan. Entonces, cuando compramos una barra de pan, ¿la abrimos y la comemos de inmediato, o la dejamos reposar en un estante o en un armario para que se enmohezca? Todos sabemos que si una barra de pan no se abre y se come en un tiempo determinado, se debe tirar porque se pone rancia. Lo mismo es cierto en nuestra vida cristiana.

    Jesús dijo que Él era el pan de vida. Si queremos recibir el perdón de

    Dios a través de Jesús y permitirle que transforme nuestras vidas, debemos aceptar Su regalo de la Salvación.

    Amigos, ¿Han abierto el pan de vida que Jesús les ofrece? ¿Han descubierto la vida por la que Jesús murió para que podamos tenerla?

    La vida sin Dios no tiene sentido. Su amor, perdón, misericordia y gracia nunca se desvanecerán. Sin Él, la vida no vale la pena ser vivida. De la misma manera, todo lo que ofrece el mundo se desvanecerá.

    Así que hoy, abre tu corazón al pan de vida y observa cómo tu vida se transforma en belleza desde las cenizas.

    Gracias, Señor, por Tu precioso regalo de Salvación a través de la gracia y la vida eterna contigo. Ayúdame a compartir lo que has hecho en mi vida con aquellos que aún no han aceptado tu precioso regalo.      Señor, no solo quiero hablar de Ti y de lo que has hecho por nosotros; Quiero que otros te vean en mí a través de mis palabras, comportamiento y acciones. En el nombre de Jesús, te doy la alabanza. ¡Amén!

     

    Referencia

    Las citas de las Escrituras están tomadas de La Santa Biblia, Nueva Versión Internacional—copyright 1973, 1978,1984,2011 por Biblica

    Traductor: Jesús Manuel Perez

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  • The Bread of Life

    The Bread of Life

    Then Jesus declared, “I am the bread of life. Whoever comes to me will never go hungry, and whoever believes in me will never be thirsty. John 6:35 NIV

    Do you like bread?

    Do you enjoy eating bread? Did you know that before the break because bread, it must go through a process? Did you know that bread must go through a process before it can be the bread you and I enjoy eating? The seed must first be planted before it can grow. Then, when the grain is ready, it must be harvested and ground into flour. Finally, before the grain becomes bread, it must pass through the oven. Making bread requires planting, harvesting, and heating.

    Jesus endured a similar process. He was born into this world. He was cut down, bruised, and beaten on the threshing floor of cavalry. He endured the wrath of God for our sake. He willingly gave His life to reconcile us with God. He was put to death in the body but made alive in the spirit. (1 Peter3:18 NIV)

    In John 6:35, Jesus said: “I am the bread of life. Whoever comes to me will never be hungry again. Whoever believes in me will never be thirsty.” So Jesus assured the hungry crowd that He was the bread of life.”

    Throughout the Bible, bread is used as a symbolic representation of God’s life-sustaining provision. So when Jesus told the hungry crowds that he was the Bread of Life, he was teaching his followers that He alone was their trustworthy source of spiritual life, both in this world and in the everlasting life to come. (See John 6:35) It’s paraphrased.

    But to get this blessing, we need to receive it like a loaf of bread. So when we buy a loaf of bread, do we open it and eat it right away, or do we let it sit on a shelf or in a cupboard to become moldy? We all know that if a loaf of bread isn’t opened and eaten within a specific time, it must be thrown away since it gets stale.

    The same is true in our Christian life. Jesus said He was the bread of life. If we want to receive God’s forgiveness through Jesus and allow Him to transform our lives, we must accept His gift of Salvation.

    Friends, have you opened the bread of life that Jesus offers you? Have you discovered the life Jesus died to give you? Life without God is meaningless. His love, forgiveness, mercy, and grace will never fade. Without Him, life is not worth living. In the same way, everything the world offers will fade away.

    So today, open your heart to the bread of life and watch your life transform into beauty from ashes.

    Thank You, Lord,  for Your precious gift of Salvation through grace and eternal life with You. Help me to share what You have done in my life with those who have yet to accept Your precious gift. Lord, I don’t only want to speak about You and what You have done for us; I want others to see You in me through my words, behavior, and actions. In Jesus’ name, I give you praise. Amen!

     

    Reference

    Scripture quotations are taken from The Holy Bible, New International Version—copyright 1973, 1978,1984,2011 by Biblica Inc.

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  • Somos elegidos: Un estudio del libro de Efesios (Introduction to We Are Chosen: A Study of the Book of Ephesians)

    Somos elegidos: Un estudio del libro de Efesios (Introduction to We Are Chosen: A Study of the Book of Ephesians)

    ¿Quiénes somos?

    Pablo habló acerca de quiénes somos en Cristo en el libro de Efesios. Cristo nos ha redimido, y a través de la salvación, hemos sido unidos con Cristo. Con frecuencia nos preguntamos quiénes somos en Cristo. Sin embargo, Pablo nos recuerda que Jesús está en nosotros y nosotros en Él, lo que debería cambiar la forma en que vemos todo.

    Nos vemos a nosotros mismos como creyentes en Cristo. La identidad de Cristo cambia nuestra identidad. Y luego miramos nuestra vida cotidiana a la luz de esta unión con Cristo. Vivimos de manera diferente debido a lo que somos en Él.

    Pero, ¿qué significa realmente vivir en Cristo? Cuando crees en Cristo, Cristo obra un milagro en ti:

    En él también ustedes, cuando oyeron el mensaje de la verdad,

    el evangelio que les trajo la salvación, y lo creyeron,

    fueron marcados con el sello que es el Espíritu Santo prometido. Efesios 1:13 NVI

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                  Cuando pienso en un sello, pienso en un depósito. Dios nos dio un pago inicial para mostrarnos a nosotros y al resto del mundo que le pertenecemos a Él y a nadie más. Piensen en una casa o propiedad que les gustaría tener. Para evitar perderla, haces un pago inicial para mostrarles a todos que la casa o propiedad es tuya.

                Eso es lo que el Espíritu Santo hace por nosotros. Dios mismo nos purifica permanentemente y nos da poder después de que el Espíritu Santo nos ha sellado. El mensaje de Jesús a la persona religiosa es simple: No se trata de lo que haces, se trata de lo que puedes hacer por

    Me he mudado. Y con el tiempo, puedes decir como Pablo: He sido crucificado con Cristo y ya no vivo yo,sino que Cristo vive en mí.  Gálatas 2:20 NVI

                                                                                                                                                                                                                               Ya no eres un cacharro limpio, ni siquiera un cacharro. Ahora eres un elegante auto de carreras apto para el Indianapolis Motor Speedway.

    Sin embargo, cuando lleguen las pruebas, es posible que te preguntes: Si eso es cierto, ¿por qué sigo balbuceando? Si volví a nacer, ¿por qué me caigo tan a menudo? Toda mi vida, cada vez que me enfrento a una tormenta severa, inmediatamente me derrumbo. Me convierto en un niño incapaz de entender por qué las cosas deben suceder de la manera en que suceden.

    Hoy mi hija me recordó que soy una hija de Dios. Puede que no entendamos por qué pasamos por pruebas y tribulaciones, pero sabemos que Dios quiere que crezcamos a través de ellas. Entonces, si somos quienes Él dijo que somos, podemos acercarnos a Él con valentía y preguntarle cualquier cosa.

    Amigos, he soportado tanto dolor desde que mi mamá se enfermó. Y como no tengo respuestas, todo lo que quiero hacer es acurrucarme en posición fetal y llorar hasta que no haya más lágrimas en mis ojos. Pero, ¿qué dice eso de mí? Estoy tirando la toalla y rindiéndome en lugar de acudir a Jesús para que me guíe, incluso si las respuestas que encuentro no son las que quiero escuchar.

    Es tan simple creer que si simplemente ignoramos la terrible realidad en la que vivimos, eventualmente desaparecerá. Pero no lo hará. Está ahí cuando nos dormimos y cuando nos despertamos. ¿Por qué? Porque Dios tiene una lección para que aprendamos, pero solo puede ser enseñada mientras pasamos por la prueba.

    Por lo tanto, debo someterme a mi Padre y pedirle que permita que se haga Su voluntad en lugar de huir de Él. Él me ayudará a ver lo que me niego a ver. Él me dará la sabiduría y el entendimiento que necesito para comprender por qué debo soportar esta prueba, cómo aplicar lo que aprendo a mi vida y cómo compartirlo con los demás.

    Es difícil aprender una lección cuando tu corazón está roto. Pero Dios prometió que estaría con nosotros pase lo que pase. Entonces, debo entregar mi dolor, ira, control y miedo y permitir que Él me enseñe las lecciones que Él cree que necesito aprender.

    Amigos, sé que esto no es fácil. Es un camino doloroso. Pero al final, comprenderán por qué debemos soportar pruebas y tribulaciones, no para que podamos crecer, sino para que otros puedan crecer junto a nosotros.

    Señor, Tú sabes que lucho con esto; por favor, ayúdame a darte el control completo de mi vida y circunstancias. Enséñame tus caminos; ayúdame a ver lo que no puedo ver. Ayúdame a entregarme por completo a Ti y a Tu perfecta voluntad para que pueda aprender Tu elección. En el nombre de Jesús te lo pido, amén.

     

    Referencia

    Lucado, Max (2013). Dios usará esto para bien. Nashville, Tennessee por Thomas Nelson, Inc.

    Traductor: Jesus Manuel Perez

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  • Efesios 5: Cómo vivir una vida cristiana (How to live a Christian life)

    Efesios 5: Cómo vivir una vida cristiana (How to live a Christian life)

    1 Por tanto, imiten a Dios, como hijos muy amados,

    2 y lleven una vida de amor, así como Cristo nos amó y se entregó

    por nosotros como ofrenda y sacrificio fragante para Dios. Efesios 5:1-2 NVI

     

    En Efesios 5, Pablo da instrucciones sobre cómo vivir una vida cristiana. Pablo nos recuerda que Cristo se entregó a sí mismo a Dios como sacrificio para expiar todos nuestros pecados, pasados, presentes y futuros. Por lo tanto, debemos vivir una vida digna de Su sacrificio y llamado. No podemos vivir como incrédulos mientras afirmamos ser hijos de Dios. No solo debemos comportarnos como Cristo, sino también hablar como Él.

    Estas instrucciones sirven como guía sobre cómo comportarse y vivir cada día. Pablo nos recordó que, aunque antes vivíamos en tinieblas, ahora somos hijos de la luz que da frutos de bondad, justicia y verdad porque hemos aceptado a Jesús como nuestro Señor y Salvador (Efesios 5:9).

    Todo lo que se haga en la oscuridad no permanecerá durante la noche. Nada permanece oculto; todo lo que la luz revela se convierte en luz.  (Efesios 5:6-13).

    Debemos vivir sabiamente, no neciamente. Debemos pasar tiempo con el Señor si queremos conocerlo a Él y Su voluntad en nuestras vidas.

    Pablo también nos recordó vivir una vida llena del Espíritu, ser agradecidos en todas las circunstancias y alabar a Dios por su amor, bondad, misericordia y fidelidad. Así como Cristo ama a la Iglesia, así también los esposos deben amar a sus esposas, y las esposas deben someterse a sus esposos como cabeza de familia. El Señor manda que los hijos obedezcan a sus padres. Deben respetar a sus padres para que todo les vaya bien y puedan disfrutar de una larga vida.

    Pero lo más importante, estamos llamados a amarnos unos a otros tal como Dios nos ama. ¿Te imaginas cuán diferente sería este mundo si todos viviéramos como Dios nos llamó a vivir? Cuando vivimos esta verdad bíblica mostramos el evangelio para que todos lo vean. Pablo nos recuerda que sin el Espíritu Santo, no podemos vivir la vida que Dios nos ha llamado a vivir. El Espíritu Santo nos da la capacidad de ser como Jesús y de poner a los demás antes que a nosotros mismos.

    Jesús es nuestro ejemplo. Él hizo la voluntad de Su Padre. Cuando nos sometemos a nuestros esposos y esposas o hijos y padres, no lo hacemos por ellos sino, lo que es más importante, por el Señor mismo. El Espíritu Santo nos da la capacidad de ser como Jesús. Nuestras palabras, acciones y motivos necesitan ser más como Jesús.

    Señor, gracias por tu amor, misericordia, fidelidad y gracia. Gracias, Señor, por enviarnos el Espíritu Santo que nos guía y nos recuerda cómo vivir una vida santa digna de tu llamado. Señor, ayúdame a mantener mis ojos en Ti y a amar a los demás como Tú nos amas. En tu precioso nombre, te agradezco y te alabo, ¡amén!

    Reference:

    Translator: Jesus Manuel Perez

     

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  • Ephesians 6: The Armor of God

    Ephesians 6: The Armor of God

    Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. Put on the full Armor of God so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes. For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. Therefore put on the full Armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand. Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist, with the breastplate of righteousness in place, and with your feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace. In addition to all this, take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one. Take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God. And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the Lord’s people. (Ephesians 6:10-18 NIV)

    Throughout the Old Testament, the Israelites are seen fighting constant battles with their enemies, but we also see God fighting for them. God is seen as a warrior. (See Exodus 15:3; Zephaniah 3:17; Psalms 18:39, 35:1-3, 42:13; Isaiah 11:5, 49:2)

    In Ephesians 6, Paul reminds us that we are in a spiritual and physical battle. That is why God sent the Holy Spirit in order to help us resist the enemy’s schemes. So, how do we fight an unseen battle? The Lord gave us His armor to allow us to stand firm and protect us against the enemy’s schemes. With this armor, we have God’s power. The same God who fought for His people in the Old Testament is also the same God who resides within us through the Holy Spirit. We can fight the enemy with confidence when we wear this armor, because we know that God is fighting for us.

    The importance and meaning of the armor of God were summarized by my friend Ann Knopp in her book “Pursuing Jesus, Obeying Jesus, Living for Jesus” (2021) as follows:

    1. Belt of Truth—Truth must be the foundation for our life; without truth we have nothing.
    2. Breastplate of Righteousness—Live a right life (protect our heart and lungs).
    3. Feet fitted with the Gospel of Peace—Share the gospel with everyone we meet.
    4. Shield of Faith—Fiery arrows of Satan will fly; our faith keeps us standing strong.
    5. Helmet of Salvation—We must believe in our mind and heart that Jesus died for us then we can be saved.
    6. Sword of the Spirit- Word of God—Study His Word daily so we can fight the battles that come our way.
    7. Pray in the Spirit in all occasions—Whatever comes our way, we always have the Spirit of God with us (p.89).

    Without this armor, my friends, we are defenseless and vulnerable to the enemy’s attack. Only a soldier who is adequately armed and trained can engage in warfare. The image that comes to mind when I think of the armor of God is one of a Roman soldier getting ready for battle. This armor protects his head, his heart, and other vital organs. Without it, he would essentially be dead.

    In verse 10, Paul tells us to be strong in the Lord and in His mighty power.” Jesus knew we would face many trials and tribulations, so He left us the Holy Spirit and gave us His armor to help us fight. Without God, we are powerless to resist and win this battle. We cannot defeat the enemy on our own; we must be spirit-filled and strengthened by God’s power. The enemy has used the same tactic since the beginning of time. He is cunning and devious. He strikes when we are weak, vulnerable, and distracted.

    Although I’ve always known about the armor of God, I never fully understood how important it was to know its purpose and why God has given it to us. In the past, I’ve tried to try to fight my own battles, but I’ve never been successful. It’s left me feeling weak and defeated and made me more insecure and doubtful. Now, though, I am aware of both who I am and Who lives in me. The God of Heaven’s army lives in you and me. He gave us the weapon we needed to fight the enemy and continue running our race.

    Friends, don’t be discouraged when facing trials or tribulations; remember who you are and Whose you are; put on your armor and continue running your race. Your struggles will not end, but ask Him to give you the strength so you may continue on your journey. Take hold of His hand and He will walk you through all the way to victory. Trust and believe in Him!

    Once again, I am thankful for Your love, mercy, and guidance. You knew we couldn’t defeat the enemy on our own, so to protect us, You sent the Holy Spirit to guide us and gave us spiritual weapons to help us to stand firm, be on our guard, and not be surprised when the enemy hits us with one of his schemes. Father, give me the wisdom and discernment to know when the enemy attacks me. Help me to always be on guard and to live a life worthy of Your calling. In Jesus’ name, I give You all the praises. Amen.

     

    Reference

    Knopp, A. L. (2021). Pursue Jesus, Obey Jesus, Live for Jesus.

    Meadville, PA: Christian Faith Publishing.

    The Lucado Encouraging Word Holy Bible. (2020). Nashville,

    TN: Thomas Nelson, Inc.

     

  • Ephesians 5: How to live a Christian life

    Ephesians 5: How to live a Christian life

    “Imitate God, therefore, in everything you do, because you are his dear children. 2 Live a life filled with love, following the example of Christ. He loved us[a] and offered himself as a sacrifice for us, a pleasing aroma to God.” Ephesians 5:1-2 NLT

     

    In Ephesians 5, Paul gives instructions on how to live a Christian life. Paul reminds us that Christ gave Himself to God as a sacrifice to atone for all our sins—past, present, and future. Therefore, we must live a life worthy of His sacrifice and calling. We cannot live like unbelievers while claiming to be the children of God. We must not only behave like Christ but also speak like Him.

     

    These instructions serve as a guide on how to behave and live each day. Paul reminded us that, although we once lived in darkness, we are now children of the light who bear the fruit of goodness, righteousness, and truth because we have accepted Jesus as our Lord and Savior. (Eph. 5:9)

    Whatever is done in the dark will not remain through the night. Nothing remains hidden; all that the light reveals turns into light. (Eph.5:6-13) We are to live wisely, not foolishly. We must spend time with the Lord if we are to know Him and His will in our lives.

    Paul also reminded us to live a Spirit-filled life, to be thankful in all circumstances, and praise God for His love, goodness, mercy, and faithfulness. As Christ loves the Church, so too should husbands love their wives, and wives are to submit to their husbands as the head of the household. The Lord commands that children obey their parents. They are to respect their parents in order for everything to go well for them and they can enjoy a long life.

    But most importantly, we are called to love one another just as God loves us. Can you imagine how different this world be like if we all lived as God called us to live? When we live out this biblical truth, we display the gospel for everyone to see. Paul reminds us that without the Holy Spirit, we are unable to live the life God has called us to live. The Holy Spirit gives us the ability to be like Jesus and to put others before ourselves.

    Jesus is our example. He did the will of His Father. When we submit to our husbands and wives or children and parents, we are not doing it for them but, more importantly, for the Lord Himself. As you said, the Holy Spirit gives us the ability to be like Jesus. Our words, actions, and motives need to become more like Jesus.

    Lord, thank you for your love, mercy, faithfulness, and grace. Thank you, Lord, for sending us the Holy Spirit who guides us and reminds us how to live a holy life worthy of Your calling. Lord, help me to keep my eyes on You and to love others as You love us. In Your precious name, I thank You and give You praise, amen!

     

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  • Deja que te atrape (Let Him Catch You)

    Deja que te atrape (Let Him Catch You)

     

    Y sé que el Señor continuará rescatándome

    de cada tropiezo, trampa, lazo y escollo del mal

    y me llevará a salvo a Su reino celestial.

    Que Él sea glorificado por toda la eternidad. Amén. 2 Timoteo 4:18 La Voz

                ¿Alguna vez has ido al circo a ver un acto de trapecio? Es una de las actuaciones más aterradoras. Siempre me ha asombrado y aterrorizado ver el acto aéreo. Mientras un trapecista vuela, el otro atrapa. Siempre me he preguntado por qué este acto fue tan exitoso.

     

    El secreto es que se supone que el volador solo debe volar, confiando en que el receptor lo atrapará y evitará que se caiga. La responsabilidad del receptor es solo atrapar al volante. Todo el trabajo lo hace él. La tarea del volante es extender los brazos y esperar a que el receptor lo agarre antes de que caiga.

    Lo interesante es que si el lanzador trata de agarrarse al cuerpo del receptor de alguna forma, ambos caen. Por lo tanto, el volador debe tener plena confianza en su receptor para que el acto sea seguro y exitoso.

    Lo mismo es cierto en nuestra vida cristiana. Dios es el receptor en el gran trapecio de la salvación. Somos simplemente los volantes. Debemos confiar en Dios. Podemos confiar en la capacidad de Dios para atraparnos, así como en Su fidelidad y la verdad de Su Palabra.     Mientras lo hacemos, sucede algo extraordinario: volamos. Dios nunca ha dejado caer a ninguno de nosotros. Al contrario, Sus brazos siempre están abiertos para sostenernos y rescatarnos de cualquier situación.

    En 2 Timoteo 4:18, vemos la confianza de Pablo en que el Señor no le fallaría a pesar de sus circunstancias. Y sé que el Señor continuará rescatándome de cada tropiezo, trampa, lazo y escollo del mal y me llevará a salvo a Su reino celestial. Que Él sea glorificado por toda la eternidad. Amén. 2 Timoteo 4:18 La Voz

    Amigos, no sé si están pasando por alguna dificultad en este momento, o si saben de alguien que lo esté, pero permítanme alentarlos diciendo que me he encontrado en muchas situaciones difíciles, pero he aprendido a poner mi confiar en Aquel que nunca me dejará caer. Él nos atrapará, nos librará, nos protegerá y nos devolverá a salvo a nuestros hogares. Dios es nuestra fuerza y nuestra guía. Él es Aquel que se preocupa por nuestras preocupaciones, miedos e inquietudes y nos ve a ti y a mí cuando caemos.

    Así que hagamos lo que estamos llamados a hacer y dejemos el resto en manos de Dios. ¿Estás listo para volar sabiendo que Sus brazos están allí para atraparnos y llevarnos?

    Padre, gracias por estar siempre a mi lado, listo para agarrarme cuando me caigo y traerme a casa a salvo. Ayúdame a recordar siempre que aunque mi montaña parezca inamovible, Tú eres más importante que cualquier montaña. Por eso, en el nombre de Jesús, te alabo y te doy toda la gloria. Amén.

    Referencia:

    The translation is done by Jesus Manuel Perez (Writer & Editor)

    La Biblia de la Voz Copyright © 2012 Thomas Nelson, Inc. Traducción

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  • Let Him Catch You!

    Let Him Catch You!

    “And I know the Lord will continue to rescue me from every trip, trap, snare, and pitfall of evil and carry me safely to His heavenly kingdom. May He be glorified throughout eternity. Amen.” 2 Timothy 4:18 VOICE

     

    Have you ever gone to the circus to watch a trapeze act?

    It is one of the scariest performances. I’ve always been both amazed and terrified watching the aerial act. While one trapeze performer does the flying, the other does the catching. I’ve always wondered as to why this act was so successful.

    The secret is that the flyer is only supposed to fly, trusting that the catcher will catch him and prevent him from falling. The catcher’s responsibility is only to catch the flyer. All the work is done by him. The flyer’s task is to extend his arms and wait for the catcher to grab him before he falls.

    What’s interesting is that if the flyer tries to hold on to the catcher’s body in any way, they both fall. Therefore, the flyer must have complete trust in his catcher for the act to be safe and successful.

     

    The same is true in our Christian life. God is the catcher in the great trapeze of salvation. We are merely the flyers. We must trust God. We can rely on God’s ability to catch us, as well as in His faithfulness and the truth of His Word. As we do, something remarkable happens—we fly. God has never dropped any of us. On the contrary, His arms are always open to hold and rescue us from any situation.

    In 2 Timothy 4:18, we see Paul’s confidence that the Lord would not fail him regardless of his circumstances. “And I know the Lord will continue to rescue me from every trip, trap, snare, and pitfall of evil and carry me safely to His heavenly kingdom. May He be glorified throughout eternity. Amen.” (VOICE)

    Friends, I don’t know if you are going through any hardships right now, or if you know of someone who is, but let me encourage you by saying that I have found myself in many difficult situations, but I have learned to place my trust in the One who will never let me fall. He will catch us, deliver us, protect us, and safely return us back homes. God is our strength and our guidance. He is the One who cares for our worries, fears, and concerns and sees you and me when we fall.

    So let us do what we are called to do and leave the rest in God’s hands. Are you ready to fly knowing that His arms are there to catch and carry us through?

    Father, thank You for always being by my side, ready to catch me when I fall and bring me home safely. Help me always remember that although my mountain may appear unmovable, You are more significant than mine. Therefore, in Jesus’ name, I praise You and give You all the glory. Amen.

     

    Reference

    The Voice Bible Copyright © 2012 Thomas Nelson, Inc. The Voice™ translation © 2012 Ecclesia Bible Society

     

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  • Ser fiel en la Espera

    Ser fiel en la Espera

    No nos cansemos ni nos desanimemos en hacer el bien porque, si no nos damos por vencidos, a su tiempo cosecharemos. Así que, mientras nosotros (como creyentes individuales) tengamos la oportunidad, hagamos el bien a todas las personas (no solo siendo útiles, sino también haciendo lo que promueva su bienestar espiritual), y especialmente (seamos una bendición] para los de la familia de la fe (creyentes nacidos de nuevo). Gálatas 6:9-10 NVI

    ¿Alguna vez has sentido que las cosas no salen según lo planeado o que no estás donde imaginaste que estarías, que de alguna manera estás atrapado en una sala de espera, esperando que suceda algo?

    Amigos, no sé ustedes, pero a mí me cuesta esperar. Cada vez que voy al médico, me impaciento más y siento que he estado esperando durante horas. Quiero gritar cuando veo que llaman a otros pacientes antes que yo: ¡Espera, llevo horas aquí y acaban de llegar! Entonces, ¿qué debo hacer? Me quejo o le pido paciencia al Señor.

    Recientemente escuché un sermón del pastor, Dominick Cotignola, de Next City Church Assembly of God sobre conocer la voluntad de Dios. Mientras escuchaba su mensaje, el Señor me habló de esperar.

    Miren, mis amigos, antes de escuchar al pastor Dominick hablar sobre la voluntad de Dios para nuestras vidas, siempre pensé que esperar era algo terrible pero, después de escucharlo, comencé a ver por qué esperar no es algo malo, sino una bendición. Es en la espera donde Dios moldea, poda y elimina cualquier cosa en mi vida que deba ser eliminada y que no pertenezca a lo que soy en Cristo.

    Gálatas 6:9-10 nos anima a seguir adelante y no desistir porque la siega y la cosecha vienen después de la poda: 

    No nos cansemos ni nos desanimemos en hacer el bien, porque a su tiempo cosecharemos, si no nos damos por vencidos. Así que, mientras tenemos [como creyentes individuales] la oportunidad, hagamos el bien a todas las personas [no solo ser útil, sino también hacer lo que promueva su bienestar espiritual], y especialmente (seamos una bendición) para los de la familia de la fe (creyentes nacidos de nuevo).

    Pero la única forma en que podemos superar “el período de espera” es permaneciendo en Jesús a través de Su Palabra. Esperar es una bendición cuando no nos damos por vencidos.

    A veces, Dios nos permite pasar por estos tiempos de espera para que podamos acercarnos más a Él y permanecer en Él. Recuerdo que la pastora, Sharon, una vez nos dijo que la mejor parte de esta estación es que no nos quedemos ahí. Solo estamos de paso, no está destinada a ser nuestra dirección permanente.

    Por lo tanto, permanezcamos fieles en este tiempo de espera y sigamos haciendo un trabajo excelente y confiable con lo que Él nos ha confiado. Vivamos para Aquel que es fiel para completar la obra que ha comenzado en nosotros. Seamos precisos con las cosas que Él nos ha confiado y démosle gloria mientras esperamos.

    Señor, gracias por recordarme la importancia de ser fiel en la espera. Señor, tú sabes que a veces me impaciento y quiero que las cosas se hagan a mi tiempo. Gracias por mostrarme, Señor, una vez más que es en los tiempos de espera donde haces tu mejor trabajo. Y recordarme que solo estoy pasando por esta temporada de espera: no es mi dirección permanente. En tu precioso nombre, te doy toda la alabanza y la gloria, amén.

    Reference

    Translator: Jesus Manuel Perez (Writer)

     

  • Being Faithful in the Waiting

    Being Faithful in the Waiting

    “Let us not grow weary or become discouraged in doing good, for at the proper time; we will reap if we do not give in. So then, while we [as individual believers] have the opportunity, let us do good to all people [not only being helpful, but also doing that which promotes their spiritual well-being], and especially [be a blessing] to those of the household of faith (born-again believers).” Galatians 6:9-10 AMP

     

    Have you ever felt like things are not going as planned or that you are not where you imagined you would be? That somehow, you’re stuck in a waiting room, waiting for something to happen?

    Friends, I don’t know about you, but I have a hard time waiting. Every time I go to the doctor, I become increasingly impatient and feel like I’ve been waiting for hours. I want to scream when I see other patients called in before me: “Wait, I’ve been here for hours, and they just arrived!” So what should I do? Either I complain or I ask the Lord for patience.

    I recently listened to a sermon from Pastor Dominick Cotignola of Next City Church Assembly of God about knowing God’s will. The Lord spoke to me about waiting as I listened to his message.

    See, my friends, before I heard Pastor Dominick speak about God’s will for our lives, I always thought that waiting was a terrible thing, but after hearing him, I started to see why waiting is not a bad thing, but rather a blessing. It is in the waiting where God molds, prunes, and removes anything in my life that needs to be removed and doesn’t belong in who I am in Christ.

    Galatians 6:9-10 encourages us to keep going and not to give up because the reaping and harvest come after the pruning. “Let us not grow weary or become discouraged in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap, if we do not give in. So then, while we [as individual believers] have the opportunity, let us do good to all people [not only being helpful, but also doing that which promotes their spiritual well-being], and especially [be a blessing] to those of the household of faith (born-again believers).”

     

    But the only way we can make it through “the waiting period” is by abiding in Jesus through His Word. Waiting is a blessing when we don’t give up. Sometimes, God allows us to go through these waiting seasons so we can grow closer to Him and abide in Him. I remember Pastor Sharon once told us that the best part of this season is that we don’t remain there. We’re only passing through; it’s not meant to be our permanent address.

    Therefore, let us remain faithful in this waiting season and continue to do excellent and reliable work with what He has entrusted us. Let us live for the One who is faithful to complete the work He has begun in us. Let us be accurate with the things He has entrusted to us and bring glory to Him even as we wait.

    Lord, thank you for reminding me of the importance of being faithful in the waiting. Lord, you know that at times I get impatient and want things done on my timing. Thank You for showing me, Lord, once again that it is in the waiting seasons where You do Your best work. And to remember that I’m only passing through this waiting season; it’s not my permanent address. In Your precious name, I give you all the praise and glory, amen.

     

    Reference

    Amplified Bible (AMP) Copyright © 2015 by The Lockman Foundation, La Habra, CA 90631.

    Editor: Carmen J. Almodovar

     

     

     

     

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  • Ser Fiel En La Espera (Being Faithful In The Weaiting)

    Ser Fiel En La Espera (Being Faithful In The Weaiting)

                No nos cansemos ni nos desanimemos en hacer el bien porque, si no nos damos por vencidos, a su tiempo cosecharemos. Así que, mientras nosotros (como creyentes individuales) tengamos la oportunidad, hagamos el bien a todas las personas (no solo siendo útiles, sino también haciendo lo que promueva su bienestar espiritual), y especialmente (seamos una bendición] para los de la familia de la fe (creyentes nacidos de nuevo). Gálatas 6:9-10 NVI

    ¿Alguna vez has sentido que las cosas no salen según lo planeado o que no estás donde imaginaste que estarías, que de alguna manera estás atrapado en una sala de espera, esperando que suceda algo?

    Amigos, no sé ustedes, pero a mí me cuesta esperar. Cada vez que voy al médico, me impaciento más y siento que he estado esperando durante horas. Quiero gritar cuando veo que llaman a otros pacientes antes que yo: ¡Espera, llevo horas aquí y acaban de llegar! Entonces, ¿qué debo hacer? Me quejo o le pido paciencia al Señor.

    Recientemente escuché un sermón del pastor, Dominick Cotignola, de Next City Church Assembly of God sobre conocer la voluntad de Dios. Mientras escuchaba su mensaje, el Señor me habló de esperar.

    Miren, mis amigos, antes de escuchar al pastor Dominick hablar sobre la voluntad de Dios para nuestras vidas, siempre pensé que esperar era algo terrible pero, después de escucharlo, comencé a ver por qué esperar no es algo malo, sino una bendición. Es en la espera donde Dios moldea, poda y elimina cualquier cosa en mi vida que deba ser eliminada y que no pertenezca a lo que soy en Cristo.

    Gálatas 6:9-10 nos anima a seguir adelante y no desistir porque la siega y la cosecha vienen después de la poda:

                No nos cansemos ni nos desanimemos en hacer el bien, porque a su tiempo cosecharemos, si no nos damos por vencidos. Así que, mientras tenemos [como creyentes individuales] la oportunidad, hagamos el bien a todas las personas [no solo ser útil, sino también hacer lo que promueva su bienestar espiritual], y especialmente (seamos una bendición) para los de la familia de la fe (creyentes nacidos de nuevo).

    Pero la única forma en que podemos superar “el período de espera” es permaneciendo en Jesús a través de Su Palabra. Esperar es una bendición cuando no nos damos por vencidos.

    A veces, Dios nos permite pasar por estos tiempos de espera para que podamos acercarnos más a Él y permanecer en Él. Recuerdo que la pastora, Sharon, una vez nos dijo que la mejor parte de esta estación es que no nos quedemos ahí. Solo estamos de paso, no está destinada a ser nuestra dirección permanente.

    Por lo tanto, permanezcamos fieles en este tiempo de espera y sigamos haciendo un trabajo excelente y confiable con lo que Él nos ha confiado. Vivamos para Aquel que es fiel para completar la obra que ha comenzado en nosotros. Seamos precisos con las cosas que Él nos ha confiado y démosle gloria mientras esperamos.

    Señor, gracias por recordarme la importancia de ser fiel en la espera. Señor, tú sabes que a veces me impaciento y quiero que las cosas se hagan a mi tiempo. Gracias por mostrarme, Señor, una vez más que es en los tiempos de espera donde haces tu mejor trabajo. Y recordarme que solo estoy pasando por esta temporada de espera: no es mi dirección permanente. En tu precioso nombre, te doy toda la alabanza y la gloria, amén.

     

     

    Reference:

    •  Nueva Versión Internacional (NVI) Santa Biblia, NUEVA VERSIÓN INTERNACIONAL® NVI® © 1999, 2015 por Biblica, Inc.
    • Traductor y Escritor: Jesus Manuel Perez
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  • Study of Ephesians Day 3: United in Christ

    Study of Ephesians Day 3: United in Christ

    And God raised us up with Christ and seated us with him in the heavenly realms in Christ Jesus, 7 in order that in the coming ages he might show the incomparable riches of his grace, expressed in his kindness to us in Christ Jesus. Ephesians 2:6-7 NIV

    What does it mean to be united with Christ?

    We are united with Christ because of His love and mercy.
    Because of Jesus’ sacrifice, we are no longer slaves to sin but can be overcome by the power of God.

    Yesterday we looked at the condition of our hearts before Jesus came and rescued us. When we were dead in our sins and transgressions, Jesus came to us. Just as Jesus was resurrected from the dead, our dead hearts have been raised from the grave of our sins. When we accept Jesus as our Lord and Savior, we get baptized. Our baptism shows us the beautiful picture of what happens in conversion as we are buried in the likeness of His death and raised to walk in the newness of life.

    We have been crucified with Christ, and our sin has been put to death. (Romans 6:5-11 and Galatians 2:20) In these verses, Paul tell us that we have been made alive in Christ and raised with Him. Just as we were crucified with Christ, we are also presented with Him and seated with Him in the Heavenly realms. Wow, what does this mean? How can we be raised with Him if we are still on Earth? Paul is really trying to tell us that as a child of God, we are inseparable from Jesus. So although we are here on Earth, we are united by the one Who’s already reigning in heaven. So even though we face many trials and tribulations, we are sure that we are in Him, and He’s in us, and nothing can separate us from His love.

    Paul assures us in Romans 8:25-39 NIV, “Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall trouble or hardship or persecution or famine or nakedness or danger or sword? 36 As it is written: “For your sake, we face death all day long; we are considered sheep to be slaughtered.” 37 No, in all these things, we are more than conquerors through Him who loved us. 38 For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, [b] neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, 39 neither height nor depth nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.”

    Friends, nothing can separate us from God’s love. Jesus’s blood seals us. It’s a one-time deal. But being united with Jesus changes the way we live. Why? Because our flesh was dead and through Jesus, we are made alive; therefore, we are called to live a life worthy of His calling. We can no longer give into our flesh desires; instead, we are to live a life worthy of His calling. Therefore, we are called to seek the Kingdom of God first and crucify our flesh daily. Is it easy? Absolutely not! But, when we put Jesus first and let Him lead us, the Holy Spirit will teach us and lead us to live a life worthy of God’s calling.

    Beloved, Jesus paid the penalty. Sin put us in prison; it locked the door behind us. But then, Jesus came to bail us out to pay the fine. Friends, someone needed to die for our sins (past, present, and future). So, Jesus came and offered Himself as a living sacrifice. He paid the penalty of our death and set us free.

    So, what will we do? Do we stay in prison even if we were set free, or do we accept the bail or remain in prison and bondage for the rest of our lives? I know I didn’t stay in that prison. I got Jesus’ perfect sacrifice and ran out. But being set free and forgiven is not a blank check to continue living the life I lived. My life needed to change.

    I wish to tell you the change occurs overnight. But, no! Although my heart accepted Jesus’ sacrifice, I must yield daily to the Holy Spirit and allow Him to change and mold me to Jesus’ image. My pastor Joaquin always told us, “Our hearts are transformed when we accept Jesus in our heart, but the transformation of the mind requires time. It needs to allow the Holy Spirit to show us who we are in Christ, who He is, and how much He loves us.

    So, friend, how does our knowledge that we have been united with Christ change how we live? Who do people see when they see you and interact with you? Do they see the old you, or do they see Jesus living His life through you?

    Father, thank you for reminding me that you chose to save me no matter how messed up my life is. I am a new creation, and I’ve been saved by grace. Not because of anything I’ve done but because of what Jesus has done for me. Thank you for your unfailing love, grace, and mercy. Lord, continue to transform me so that others can see You living your life through me, Lord Jesus. In your name, I give all praise, amen!

    Reference
    Lucado, Max (2013). God Will Use This For Good. Nashville, Tennessee by Thomas Nelson, Inc.
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  • Study of Ephesians: Day 2: Made Alive in Christ

    Study of Ephesians: Day 2: Made Alive in Christ

    Day 2: Made Alive in Christ

    “And you [He made alive when you] were [spiritually] dead and separated from Him because of your transgressions and sins, 2 in which you once walked. You were following the ways of this world [influenced by this present age], in accordance with the prince of the power of the air (Satan), the spirit who is now at work in the disobedient [the unbelieving, who fight against the purposes of God]. 3 Among these [unbelievers], we all once lived in the passions of our flesh [our behavior governed by the sinful self], indulging the desires of [a]human nature [without the Holy Spirit] and [the impulses] of the [sinful] mind. We were, by nature, children [under the sentence] of [God’s] wrath, just like the rest [of mankind]. 4 But God, being [so very] rich in mercy, because of His great and wonderful love with which He loved us, 5 even when we were [spiritually] dead and separated from Him because of our sins, He made us [spiritually] alive together with Christ (for by His grace—His undeserved favor and mercy—you have been saved from God’s judgment). 6 And He raised us up together with Him [when we believed], and seated us with Him in the heavenly places, [because we are] in Christ.” (Ephesians 2:1-6 AMP)

    Today’s passage speaks to us about the condition of our hearts before Jesus sacrificed His life to save us. How does knowing our sins and transgressions help us to be thankful for what God has done for us?

    I was raised in a Catholic family and attended Catholic schools. Sin was rarely discussed, and when it was, we had to go to church and confess our sins to a priest, who then granted us absolution. At the end of the confession, the priest had us recite several prayers, for example, three Hail Marys and the Our Father. I never felt different after doing my act of contrition. I never understood how the priest could forgive me or how doing an act of penance could help me. But we were required to do it every Friday morning before class or every Saturday night.

    I was twenty years old when one of my college professors spoke to me about Jesus. She told me that we are all sinners, and Jesus had to come and die on the cross in order to save us. Even though I didn’t understand what she meant, she had planted the seed in me. I prayed repeatedly, asking Jesus to reveal Himself to me. Though I wish it had, it didn’t happen overnight. First, I needed to seek God with all my heart and accept who I was. That’s when my search began, and I started to understand who I was and why He had come for me.

    Ephesians 2:1–6 states that we were dead in our sins and our transgressions. That means we were spiritually dead and had no power to bring ourselves back to life. Trespasses is known as paraptoma in Greek. This word refers to our willingness to cross boundary lines. The Greek word for sin is amartia, which means to miss the mark or not live up to God’s standard of righteousness and perfection.

    So, what does this mean? It means we willingly choose to run away from God and choose our path.

    But here is evidence of God’s amazing love for us: “But because of his great love for us, God, who is rich in mercy, made us alive with Christ even when we were dead in transgressions- it is by grace you have been saved. And God raised us up with Christ and seated us with him in the heavenly realms in Christ Jesus.” (Ephesians 2:4-6 NIV)

    We didn’t deserve His love. We weren’t even aware that we were dead. Yet, He chose us. He chose to save us and redeem us, not because we deserved it, but because He loved us.

    According to Ephesians 2:8-10 NIV, “For it is by grace you have been saved through faith- and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God- not by works so that no one can boast. We are God’s handiwork created in Christ Jesus to do good works which God prepared in advance for us to do.”

    We were dead in our sins and transgressions, but God made us alive in Christ. While we were running from God, He was running to us. He chose you and me when we didn’t deserve it. I once read of a vision Ezekiel had in which he saw the land covered in dry bones, and the Lord said to the bones: “This is what the Sovereign Lord says to these bones: I will make breath[a] enter you, and you will come to life. 6 I will attach tendons to you and make flesh come upon you and cover you with skin; I will put breath in you, and you will come to life. Then you will know that I am the Lord.’” (Ezekiel 37:5-6 NIV)
    Although we were completely dead and without hope, our God brings dead things to life.

    Friends, we who have placed our faith in Jesus were once dead, but now we are alive in Christ. We are no longer dry bones; we are alive because of Jesus. We no longer need to live a life without purpose or seek fleeting pleasures. Our Father loved us enough to run to us and rescue us from our eternal death. Because Jesus is alive, we are alive in Him. Every day that we are alive, we owe to Jesus. He took our dry, lifeless bones and gave us an abundant life. We may not get everything we want in this life, but we can be sure that, one day, we will spend eternity with Him. And it’s not because we earned it or deserve it; rather, it’s because He loves us and gave His life so we can live.

    Lord, thank You for turning these dry bones to life. Thank You for not giving up on me even when, at times, my heart and my flesh fail, You oh Lord, have never failed me. Your love for me endures forever. Help me keep my eyes on You alone, for when I do, I can run my race knowing that You are right beside me and one day I will be with You for all eternity. In Your name, I praise You, amen.

    Reference

    Reference

    • Amplified Bible (AMP) Copyright © 2015 by The Lockman Foundation, La Habra, CA 90631.
    • Lucado, Max (2013). God Will Use This For Good. Nashville, Tennessee by Thomas Nelson, Inc.

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  • Introduction to The Book of Ephesians Day One: Who are we?

    Introduction to The Book of Ephesians Day One: Who are we?

    “In Him also we have [a]received an inheritance [a destiny—we were claimed by God as His own], having been predestined (chosen, appointed beforehand) according to the purpose of Him who works everything in agreement with the counsel and design of His will,” Ephesians 1:11 AMP

    Paul addressed who we are in Christ in the book of Ephesians. Christ has redeemed us, and we have been united with Christ through salvation. Yet, we frequently wonder who we are in Christ. However, Paul reminds us that Jesus is in us, and we are in Him, which should change how we view everything.

    We see ourselves as believers in Christ. Christ’s identity changes our identity. And then we look at our everyday lives in light of this union with Christ. We live differently because of who we are in Him.

    But what does it mean to live in Christ? When you believe in Christ, Christ works a miracle in you, “And you also were included in Christ when you heard the message of truth, the gospel of your salvation. When you believed, you were marked in Him with a seal, the promised Holy Spirit, who is a deposit guaranteeing  our inheritance until the redemption of those who are God’s possession- to the praise of God.” (Ephesians 1:13-14 NIV).

    When I think of a seal, I think of a deposit. God put a down payment on us to show us and the rest of the world that we belong to Him and no one else. Think of a house or piece of property you would like to own. To avoid losing it, you make a down payment to show everyone the house or property belongs to you.

    That is what the Holy Spirit does for us. God Himself permanently purifies and empowers us after the Holy Spirit has sealed us. So the message of Paul to the believers is simple: It’s not about what you do, but what He can do for you. He chose us; He has already moved in. He has permanently made His home in you and me.

    And in time, we can say, like Paul, “I have been crucified with Christ [that is, in Him, I have shared His crucifixion]; it is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me. The life I now live in the body I live by faith [by adhering to, relying on, and completely trusting] in the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself up for me. I no longer live, but Christ lives in me.” (Galatians 2:20 AMP).

    I don’t know about cars, but my husband does. Here is how he explained to me the amazing work Jesus has done in us. We are no longer junk cars or used cars. We have been transformed into a classic ready to compete and run our race.

    When the trials come, however, you may wonder, “If that’s true, why do I still sputter? If I’m born again, why do I fall so often?” All my life, whenever I’ve faced a severe storm, I immediately fall apart. I become a child unable to understand why things must happen the way they do.

    Today my daughter reminded me that I am a child of God. We may not understand why we go through trials and tribulations, but we know God wants us to grow through them.

    So, if we are who He said we are, we can boldly come to Him and ask Him anything. There is one truth that will never change even we go through trials, and that is that God cherishes us. The more we know Him, the more we understand His love for us.

    Friends, I’ve endured so much pain since my mom got sick. And because I have no answers, all I want to do is curl up into a fetal position and cry until there are no more tears in my eyes. But what does that say about me? I’m throwing in the towel and giving up instead of turning to Jesus for guidance, even if the answers I find are not what I want to hear.

    It’s so simple to believe that if we ignore our terrible reality, it will eventually disappear. But it won’t. It’s there when we fall asleep and when we wake up. Why? Because God has a lesson for us to learn, but it can only be taught as we go through the trial. I must, therefore, submit to my Father and ask Him to let His will be done rather than running away from Him. He will help me to see what I refuse to see. He will give me the wisdom and understanding to comprehend why I must endure this trial, how to apply what I learn to my life, and how to share it with others.

    It is challenging to learn a lesson when your heart is broken. But God promised He would be with us no matter what happens. So, I must surrender my pain, anger, control, and fear and allow Him to teach me the lessons He believes I need to learn. Friends, I know going through trials is not easy. It’s a painful road. But in the end, we will understand why we must endure trials and tribulations—not only so that we can grow but so that others can grow alongside us.

    Lord, You know I struggle with this; please help me give You complete control of my life and circumstances. Teach me Your ways; Help me to see what I can’t see. Help me surrender entirely to You and Your perfect will so I may learn Your choice. In Jesus’ name, I ask, amen.

    Reference

    • Amplified Bible (AMP) Copyright © 2015 by The Lockman Foundation, La Habra, CA 90631.
    • The Lucado Encouraging Word Holy Bible New International Version (2020. Nashville, Tennessee: Thomas Nelson
    • Editor: Carmen J. Almodvar
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  • The God of Second Chances

    The God of Second Chances

    “If we [freely] admit that we have sinned and confess our sins, He is faithful and just [true to His nature and promises] and will forgive our sins and cleanse us continually from all unrighteousness [our wrongdoing, everything not in conformity with His will and purpose] 1John 1:9 AMP

     

    Have you ever wondered why the Lord consistently stood by the Israelites despite their betrayal and stubbornness? That is a question I have asked myself many times. But, one day, I realized that God never stopped loving them despite their repeated betrayal and disappointment. Do you know how I know this is true? Because He did the same for me.

     

    When I first became a Christian, I often questioned whether I was saved. I frequently heard people testify how the Lord saved them from drugs, abuse, and many other things unknown to me at the time. But, because of my lack of knowledge, I didn’t know the true story of who God was and why He sent Jesus.

     

    I often heard stories about Abraham, Moses, Noah, Joseph, Paul, and other “Bible Heroes.” But I never really knew who they were and the things they did before God called them.

     

    Let’s start with Abraham, who is known as the Father of Faith. Yes, He did trust God, but he was still human, like you and me. He lied, was afraid, and had doubts.

     

    Moses was the person God chose to deliver His people from slavery in Egypt. Yet he fled to the desert after killing an Egyptian.” Years later, when God called Moses to return to Egypt and save His people, Moses doubted and asked, “Why me? I’m sure there’s someone else you can select besides me.” God ignored Moses’ reluctance and sent him to do the task.

     

    That reminds me of another biblical figure, Jonah. God gave Jonah the task of preaching repentance to the people of Nineveh. Jonah, however, had another plan, so he ran away. God allowed him to be swallowed by a whale, where he remained for three days, forced to do some thinking. After the whale spits him out, Jonah carries out God’s plans.

     

    David, the beloved King, was a man after God’s heart. David did love God, but he was also human. He lusted after a married woman and slept with her. As a result, she became pregnant, and David tried to cover it up, but when he failed, he decided to kill her husband.

     

    Then there’s Jacob, from whom the twelve tribes of Israel, the Chosen One, would come. Unfortunately, Jacob cheated on his brother and stole his firstborn rights to food.

     

    Next is Solomon, the wisest king Israel ever had. God granted him wisdom, but he was weak against women. So he married many foreign women who worshiped other gods.

     

    The apostle Paul is considered one of the greatest apostles and brought the gospel to the Gentiles. However, before Paul met the Lord, he persecuted Christians and was responsible for many deaths, including Stephen’s.

     

    Many men and women whose lives changed the course of history are mentioned in the Bible. Yet, every one of these people was human. They were not pure or holy; they had no supernatural gifts. No, just like you and me, their lives were a mess. God, however,  overlooked their flaws and saw their potential.

     

    God is a God of second chances. He uses people to change the world. God is into details. He knits wrongdoings together and transforms them into a beautiful narrative.

     

    When I reflect on everything that has happened in my life–good and bad–I cannot help wondering why God would want someone like me. Insecure, fearful, a liar, a cheater, and someone afraid of her shadow. Why would He want me? Before this, I was unable to see it. God wants to transform people’s lives. He doesn’t choose those who are qualified to do the work. He chooses people who are humble, gentle, and uneducated and provides them with the tools needed to carry out His work.

     

    Friends, if you wonder why God would want you, remember that He loves you. He knew who you and I would become even before we were conceived in our mother’s womb. Yet, Jesus chose to die for you and me. It is not our past or present that determines who we are; it is Jesus who makes us righteous. Nothing we did or did not do can earn God’s love for us. Only Jesus’ love for us can make us righteous in God’s eyes.

     

    Lord, I am in awe of how much You endured to save so many people and me. Lord, forgive me for allowing the past and the enemy’s lies to bring me down and for doubting why You have chosen me. Lord, I surrender all to You, my past, present, and future. Continue to mold and shape me into the woman You created me to be. Help me to keep my eyes on You and keep running my race. In Your precious name, I thank You for Your love, mercy, forgiveness, and grace. Amen.

     

    Reference

    Amplified Bible (AMP). 2015 by The Lockman Foundation, La Habra, CA 90631.

    Editor: Carmen Julia Almodovar, Bristow, Virginia

     

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  • In the Stillness, There’s A knowing

    In the Stillness, There’s A knowing

     

    “If you are faithful with a few matters, he will set you over many.” Matthew 25If so, you’re not alone.

    I faced a harrowing situation at work about four years ago that changed my life. I had no idea why I was going through this storm or trial. I couldn’t see how God was going to get me through it. I don’t know if you are like me; I wanted to run out of the storm. I didn’t want to endure the pain, the humiliation. I just wanted it gone.

    Have you ever faced a storm and wondered if God has forgotten you? Would I ever get out of this storm?

    During this trial (test), I learned to see and trust Jesus even though I couldn’t see or understand what He was doing.

    But God had other plans. I needed to learn that even in the darkest hour in my life, God never forgets me; He still has a purpose for me.

    I learned that God was fully engaged in my life. He sees our needs of tomorrow and, accordingly, uses our circumstances to create the ‘test” (to take a keen look at, to look, to choose. The Hebrew-Greek Word Study Bible Edit by Spiros Zodhiates.)

    God can cause all things to work together for our good. (Romans 8:28)

    Can He turn something good out of my mess? Yes, He can! God is the potter; we are the clay. He is the Gardener; we are the branches. He is the Shepherd; we are the sheep. He is the teacher; we are the students.

    I needed to trust His training and believe that He would make something good out of my mess. And He did. It didn’t happen overnight, but it did happen. 

    During this trial, God reminded me of Joseph. Joseph succeeded in the kitchen and dungeon before prevailing in the Egyptian court. He cared for the butler and baker before he cared for the nations. He excelled in the small things and was rewarded immensely.

    And that’s precisely what the Lord did for me. He turned a harrowing situation in my life into a victory. He cleared my name, restored me, and turned my “mess” into His message. 

    Friends, how can we be like Joseph and Job and rely on God in the small things while waiting for Him to promote us to create more extraordinary things? 

    During the test, let us focus on maintaining a great attitude, serving others, and not complaining. Remember, no testing or trial lasts forever, and God will always fulfill His promise. He will always make something good out of our mess. God will turn it around. Jesus is the same yesterday and today!

    Father, thank you for your faithfulness. Thank you for turning my mess into Your message. Thank you for reminding me that You are an incredible Father who loves me and will never let me go.

     

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  • He Will Get You Through This

    He Will Get You Through This

    “When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and through the rivers, they shall not overwhelm you; when you walk through the fire, you shall not be burned, and the flame shall not consume you.” Isaiah 43:2 ESV

    Will you get through this? How many times do we hear people recite these lines? The last thing we want to hear while drowning in our sorrows and grieving is, “You’ll get through this.” Although nothing is wrong with saying these words, they are the last thing we want to hear when we suffer.

    Unfortunately, these are not magical words that instantly make our pain disappear. I should know because I experienced this sorrow when I lost my father and husband. Then, I was gripped by despair and guilt.

    When we experience suffering, we fear that we won’t be able to overcome our worries and that our sorrow and grief won’t go away. But instead, the pain and anguish seem to get worse as time passes.

    The scripture talks about those who, like us, went through a terrible persecution, death, illness, and even depression.
    People like Joseph were betrayed by his brothers and jailed through no fault of their own. David was anointed King early but endured trials, persecution, and betrayal. Likewise, the Apostles were persecuted, mocked, and imprisoned for choosing to follow Jesus.

    Daniel was a victim of jealousy and faced death for taking a stand on whose he was. How about Noah, who was instructed to build an ark when there was no sign of rain? He was not crazy, despite what everyone thought; he simply followed God’s instructions and remained faithful.

    They must have all wondered when their suffering would end. We go through storms as well. Even if our storms may not be as severe as theirs, it still overwhelms us and fills our minds and hearts with fear.

    What, then, do all these men have in common? Despite their storms, they trusted in God. Trials and tribulations are not painless. Did God promise that we would not go through trials and tribulations? No, but He did pledge to reweave our pain for a higher purpose. It will take a while. Years he was passed before God raised Joseph to a higher position. Joseph was only 17 when he began his journey. It took God one hundred twenty years to prepare him for his work.

    At the age of 17, God called David and appointed him King, but first, he had to endure much suffering and persecution before he ascended to the throne. Jesus spent thirty years preparing for His mission. If it took time before their persecution ended, how long would it take for God to deliver you and me to fulfill His promises in our lives?

    Despite everything, God is at work in our lives and the lives of others; He is preparing us for our calling. Remember that God will use your circumstance to transform it into a message, no matter how long it takes. It is during these seasons and waiting periods that God teaches us what we need to learn.

    Max Lucado wrote, “We see a prison, God sees a kiln. We see a famine; God sees the relocation of His chosen lineage. We call it Egypt; God calls it protective custody, where the sons of Jacob can escape barbaric Canaan and multiply abundantly in peace. We see Satan’s tricks and plots. God sees Satan tripped and failed” (Lucado, 2013, pp. 220)

    Friends, we are a modern-day equivalent of Joseph. We represent a threat to Satan’s plans. Why? Because we carry the Spirit of God. He is inside us and eager to give the world what it needs: holiness, mercy, pureness, kindness, abundant peace, forgiveness, and unconditional love.

    The life of Joseph demonstrates how God, our Master Weaver and Master Rebuilder, redeems us for the better through forgiveness, mercy, and restoration. If God did this for Joseph and many others, He would do the same for you and me. All we need to do is to trust Him.

    Thank you again for reminding me that You are a good Father and Your plans are always good. Help me to focus on You as I run my race and keep my eyes on Jesus. In your precious name, I praise you and give you all the glory; amen.

    Reference & Credits

    • Scripture quotations are from the ESV Bible (The Holy Bible, English Standard Version), copyright
    2001 by Crossway, a Good News Publishers publishing ministry.
    • Lucado, Max. (2013). God Will Use This For Good. Nashville, Tennessee by Thomas Nelson, Inc.
    • Editor: Carmen Almodovar, Bristow, Virginia

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  • God, The Master Weaver

    God, The Master Weaver

    As for you, you meant evil against me, but God meant it for good, to bring it about that many people should be kept alive as they are today.” (Genesis 50:20 ESV)

    I occasionally run across people who I’ve known for years. Most are amazed by how much I’ve changed or, as some like to say, “developed.”

    The fact is, I have changed; I’m no longer the same person I was. I had a choice; I could have continued to wallow in my pity party or taken a stand for what I believed.

    During one of our weekly chats last week, my niece told me how proud she is of the woman I have become. Her words were a sweet aroma to my soul, especially during this season in my life. She then asked me what my secret was. How did I remain so calm and hopeful while going through many trials and tribulations? I didn’t have to think too hard; I said, “I owe it all to God.”

    After our lovely conversation, I turned off all the lights and started to pray; I thanked God for everything He has done in my life and also asked Him to continue to give me His wisdom and discernment so that I could see my friends, family, and everyone I encounter through His eyes.

    The Lord reminded me of Joseph’s life during my time with Him. His brothers betrayed him; Potiphar’s wife falsely accused him, and he was imprisoned and forgotten. Yet Joseph never once expressed anger toward God. Instead, he held on to his faith because he believed in who God was.

    Then one day, God turned everything around. The young boy who had been forsaken and forgotten became God’s instrument to save His people. In Genesis 45-50, Joseph meets his brothers face to face. He held a position of authority. He had the power to hold his brothers accountable for what they had done to him, but he chose not to. Instead, he said, “As for you, you meant evil against me, but God meant it for good, to bring it about that many people should be kept alive, as they are today.” (ESV, Genesis 50:20)

    I have found this verse to be true in my life. I have been in situations where hope seemed so far away, but my beloved brother Larry, an Elders in my church, always reminds me that God causes all things to work together for our good. (See Romans 8:28)

    “In God’s hands, intended evil becomes eventual good.” (Lucado, 2013 pp. 13)

    Friends, there will be times when we cannot see what God is doing or why He has allowed things to happen in our lives. But like Joseph, we can hold on to the promises that God is good. He’s faithful and has good plans for us. (See Jeremiah 29:11)

    He is continuously working behind the scenes to remove what evil the enemy has woven in our lives. Though we may not see it right away, we know God will surely fulfill His promises. Why? God is the constant in our lives. He will never leave us or forsake us.

    Father, thank you for reminding me today that no matter what evil the enemy may be weaving in my life, You are working behind the scenes to reweave it and turn it into good. Thank You for being the constant in my life. Lord, continue to remind me that I’m never alone, no matter what storm I face. You will always pull me out and cause everything to work together for my good. Lord, help me to see people through your eyes of love. In your precious name, I thank You and give You all the glory, amen.

    Reference
    • Scripture quotations are from the ESV Bible (The Holy Bible, English Standard Version), copyright
    2001 by Crossway, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights
    reserved
    • Lucado, Max (2013). God Will Use This For Good. Nashville, Tennessee by Thomas Nelson, Inc.

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  • Seasons Of Waiting

    Seasons Of Waiting

    Waiting is difficult. We don’t like to wait. We live in a world that is constantly moving at a dizzying speed. We don’t walk; we run. We don’t stay in our lane while driving; instead, we get irritated and veer off when the car in front of us moves too slowly. We become impatient when we have to wait at the doctor’s office. We don’t like waiting in line for too long. We want things done yesterday.

    God doesn’t work like that. He works according to His pace and will. One year for us can be a thousand years for God. So, what do we do during our season of waiting?

    The Bible tells us that God works all things together for our good. What does that mean? Due to our inability to wait, we expect God to turn things around immediately. And to provide us with all the good things we want or desire. But that is not what this verse means.

    “And we know that in all things, God works for the good of those who love him, who[a]have been called according to his purpose.” (NIV, Romans 8:38)

    It means that God works all things together no matter what season we are enduring. He is active in our lives, not distant. He’s working behind the scenes, whether through trials or tribulations; He’s not leaving us alone. God uses every season in our lives to help us learn more about Him, His character, who He is, and who we are. Even when we face situations that leave us wondering how they will turn out, we can trust with all our hearts that the Lord will turn things around. Everything He does or allows is for our good.

    So, when we go through any season of waiting, instead of running away or complaining, let us ask ourselves: What is God trying to teach me about Himself and myself that only this season of time would allow me to see and learn? What truths can I cling to as a reminder of God’s continual work in my waiting?

    Friends, I have experienced many seasons of waiting. Unfortunately, I didn’t learn the lessons God was attempting to teach me. Instead, I ran, complained, and completely missed it. It wasn’t until one season of waiting that God got my complete attention.

    In 2017, I was falsely accused of something I didn’t do. No matter how often I cried and complained, I was unable to see God at work until one day when I recalled Pastor Sharon’s words, “This is not the end of your story. God is not finished writing your story. Look for Jesus in the season. Surrender and let Him show you the way.” (Pastor Sharon Gonzalez, Pure Grace Ministries. 2018)

    I needed the support of my beloved brothers and sisters to get me through this challenging season in my life. At first, I couldn’t see what God was doing, but as I surrendered and turned to Jesus and let Him lead me, I could slowly see what He was trying to teach me. Finally, although it wasn’t easy, I could see God working in me and on those who falsely accused me. Did it happen overnight? No! It took ten months of pain, humiliation, doubts, praying, and letting God do what He knows best to reconstruct my heart and bring me to a place where I entirely depended on Him.

    After ten long months, my Lord Jesus brought me back to work. But it wasn’t just going back to my job; it was about showing everyone that I was innocent and that my Heavenly Father had redeemed me and showed everyone that I was His child. Shortly after, every person who falsely accused me was removed. Not because of anything I did but rather because of who He is.

    “It is mine to avenge; I will repay. In due time, their foot will slip; their day of disaster is near, and their doom rushes upon them.” (NIV, Deuteronomy 32:35)

    God allows us to go through seasons of waiting where He can show us who He is and who we are.  Seasons of waiting are pauses in our lives that help us see God’s faithfulness. We can embrace these seasons and allow the Lord to remove those strongholds that keep us from becoming who He created us to be, or we can continue to remain stuck, roaming around the wilderness, not knowing Who He is and what His will is for us. What would you choose?

     

    Father, thank you for your love and faithfulness. Thank you again for reminding me that you are not an absentee Father. You are always with me and in me. I can run to your arms anytime, knowing they are always open to embrace, comfort, lead, and even lovingly correct me when needed. Lord, help me to be patient during seasons of waiting. Teach me what I need to learn and give me the wisdom to apply it. I rather go through any season of waiting with You than live a life of uncertainty without You. In Jesus’ name, I thank you, Father, amen.

    Reference:

    • Gonzalez, S. (Fall 2018). The Discipline of Discipleship: Hidden Seasons. https://www.puregracenyc.org/
    • The Lucado Encouraging Word Holy Bible New International Version (2020. Nashville, Tennessee

     

  • He Chose You

    He Chose You

    You did not choose me, but I chose you and appointed you so that you might go and bear fruit—fruit that will last—and so that whatever you ask in my name, the Father will give you.” John 15;16 NIV

     

    Many of my friends have spoken to me about the television series “The Chosen,” which is based on the life of our Lord Jesus. In one of the episodes, Jesus met a man named Simon the Zealot. At one point, Simon asked the Lord Jesus, “Why did you choose me?” Jesus turned to face him and said, “Simon, I have everything I need, but I wanted you.”

     

    Isn’t that amazing? The Lord doesn’t need any of us to do anything for Him. He is God, Our Creator, Adonai, and Elohim. Yet, though He has everything and can do anything, He chose you and me. He saw our broken hearts and our broken spirits.

     

    Our souls yearn to return to the first story. The story began in the Garden of Eden. Where God, Adam, and Eve were in unison. God walked around the Garden and talked with Adam.

     

    No sin could separate them until the serpent placed doubt in Eve’s mind. “Did God really say, “You must not eat from any tree in the Garden? To this, Eve responded, “We may eat fruit from the trees in the Garden, but God did say, you must not eat fruit from the tree that is in the middle of the Garden, and you must not touch it, or you will die. You will not certainly die, the serpent said to the woman. For God knows that when you eat from it, your eyes will be opened, and you will be like God, knowing good and evil.” (Genesis 3:1-5 NIV)

     

    Despite reading these verses so many times, I did not realize the language the serpent used to place doubt in Eve’s mind. “Did God really say…? Surely you won’t die.” His words focused on finding a loophole and information than about the love, trust, and intimacy that God had given Adam and Eve.

     

    He led Eve to doubt God, who she was, and whose she was for her to think that there were better things available than what God was providing for them. He acts the same way toward us. He sows doubts in our minds to make us forget who God is, who we are, and whose we are.

     

    John Eldridge offers the following interpretation of what happened in the Garden of Eden: “Satan came into the Garden whispered to Adam and Eve and in them, to all of us. You cannot trust the heart of God… he’s holding out on you… you’ve got to take matters under your control.” (Eldridge, 204. P.55)

     

    Satan sowed the seed of mistrust in our hearts and tempted us so he could seize control. Unfortunately, it’s the same lie he still uses in your life and mine.

     

    The enemy still uses the strategy of making us doubt God. The Old Testament speaks of David as a great King. He faced similar temptations that we face today. But he provided guidance on how to deal with those uncertainties throughout his Psalms. He had doubts about his current situation, other people’s motives, and the injustices of the world. David questioned his situation, yet he talked to God about it. Why? David knew God and trusted God.

     

    In his book “The Eden Option,” author, Allen Arnold, explained how following the fall, Adam and Eve lost four essential things:

     

    1. They lost their union with God. They didn’t become gods because they doubted God. On the contrary, it caused them to hide in shame from God.
    2. They lost their voices. Adam remained silent when Eve was tempted. Then after the fall, Adam used his voice to blame Eve. She, in turn, used her voice to blame the serpent.
    3. They lost their vision. The serpent promised their eyes would be opened. And they were, but not in the way they hoped.
    4. They lost the ability to rest. Their curse included pain, striving, and restlessness. (Arnold, 2022, pp. 60-61)

     

    Allen Arnold states, “Story 1 is the original true story we were made for. A way of life that evolves around God, where we are fully seen, known and loved. Story 2 is the counterfeit narrative we’re born into. A way of life that revolves around us. We make ourselves the hero of the story, then wonder why God seems distant.” (The Eden Option)

     

    In Story 2, unison, voice, vision, and rest were lost. However, in Story 1, we have an opportunity to get them back. The journey is possible but requires us to live by choice, not by chance.

     

    In the story of Alice in Wonderland, Alice is a dreamer full of curiosity, but one of her flaws is her inability to make decisions. So when she encounters the Cheshire Cat, Alice says, “Would you tell me, please, which way I ought to go from here?”

     

    The Cheshire Cat responded, “That depends greatly on where you want to get to.” Alice replied, “I don’t much care where. Then it doesn’t matter which way you go,” said the Cheshire Cat. “So long as I get somewhere,” responded Alice.

    “Oh, you’re sure to do that,” said the Cheshire Cat, “if you only walk long enough.” (Geronimi, Jackson & Hamilton 1951)

     

    This movie always left me puzzled when I watched it. Who was more confused, Alice or the Cheshire Cat? I couldn’t tell. But, as I watched it with my grandchildren, I realized that the Cheshire Cat knew Alice had a problem. Her problem wasn’t getting somewhere but not knowing where she wanted to go.

     

    The same was true for Adam and Eve and for us as well. By choosing to disobey God and eat from the forbidden tree, they went somewhere—to a misguided journey where God was not the center. They lost sight of who they were and whose they were. The same holds true for us. There will be instances when we will have to make a choice.

     

     

    The world will tempt us with various pleasures that will appeal to our flesh, which will ultimately cause us to live in Story 2, where we, not God, are the main character. But, unfortunately, that will set us on a path of confusion and will cause us to make wrong decisions, just like Alice.

     

    But no matter what storms and difficulties we may face, if we know who we are and whose we are and choose to live in Story 1, to be in communion with God where He is the center of our lives, then we can stand firm because we know that through Jesus we are saved by Grace, and He didn’t leave us alone.

     

     

    The Holy Spirit is with us, teaches us, guides us, and reminds us who we are. We are children of the Most High God. The God who chose us, who sees us—El Roi, and who left everything to rescue us and deliver us from our sins. Friends, we don’t have to live in Story 2. Let’s choose to live Story 1 instead, as our Heavenly Father intended for us to live. Jesus made that possible for you and me.

     

    Lord, thank you for seeing me and choosing me even though you didn’t need anything from me. Lord, You left all our glory and came down from Heaven to rescue me by giving Your life for me. I choose to live my life in Story 1. I choose to make You the center of my life. A life where I can boldly come to You and talk to You, knowing that You listen to my prayers; You speak to me when I’m silent, and You are always working behind the scenes even when I can’t see You. I love you, Lord, because You loved me first. In your name, amen!

     

    References:

    • Arnold, A. (2022). The Eden Option. NavPress. Tyndale House Publishers
    • Eldridge, J. (2004) Epic: The Story God is Telling. Thomas Nelson, Inc. Nashville, Tennessee
    • Geronimi, C., Wilfred, J. and Hamilton, L. (Directors). (1951). Alice in Wonderland [Motion Picture]. Walt Disney Productions. RKO Radio Pictures.
    • The Lucado Encouraging Word Holy Bible New International Version (2020). Nashville, Tennessee

     

     

     

  • No Place Like Home

    No Place Like Home

    “I’m leaving you with a gift-peace of mind and heart. And the peace I give is a gift the world cannot give. So, don’t be troubled or afraid.” John 14:27 NLT

    In the beloved children’s classic, “The Wizard of Oz,” Dorothy’s boredom with farm life leads her mind to stray to a place far off, where dreams come true. Thanks to a Kansas tornado, her wish is granted. However, the yellow brick road inevitably leads Dorothy down a path to disappointment and self-discovery. She learns that the infamous Wizard can’t live up to his hype, and Oz is certainly no promised land. Ultimately, she longs to return to the simplicity of life in Kansas. 

    When life doesn’t live up to our expectations, we can feel out of place and become discouraged, just like Dorothy. That’s why we need to know our home address. We’re not orphans. We’re not homeless. We have a seat at the King’s table and a place in His heart. 

    Friends, Jesus left us a gift before He went to the Cross. 

    “I will not leave you comfortless as orphans: I will come to you. I am leaving you with a gift—peace of mind and heart. And the peace I give is a gift the world cannot give. So, don’t be troubled or afraid.” (John 14:18,27) 

    The gift is Himself! 

    Peace is not the absence of problems but rather the presence of God in your troubles. We often wait for skies to clear up and storms to stop before we finally find peace. But Jesus is teaching me that peace is not the absence of something. Rather peace is the presence of Someone. Peace is seeing Jesus during my storm. 

    Ultimately, it’s the awareness of Jesus’ unfailing presence that brings us true and lasting peace during the storms of life. 

    Friend, Jesus is calling you and me back into His presence. For it is only in His presence that we find true rest, peace, and comfort. Peace is not a place; peace is the Person of Jesus. 

    Beloved do you know your address? Where do your heart and mind reside? 

    Often, we’re more preoccupied with our street address, our career address, our financial address, and every other pursuit, than we are with our spiritual zip code. 

    Beloved, where do you live? Home is where the heart is. Dear friends, unlike Dorothy, we don’t need a rainbow to leave the clouds far behind us. We don’t need to wish upon a star for our dreams to come true. His presence is our forever home. His peace is our hiding place. You’re probably wondering, how does one come into the presence of Jesus? Very simple friends, all we need to do is go to His Word and spend time with our precious Lord Jesus. Beloved, remember 

  • Awaiting With Expectancy For The Bridegroom

    Awaiting With Expectancy For The Bridegroom

    “Set your minds on things that are above, not on things that are on earth.” Colossians 3:2 ESV

    How does a bride prepare for her Bridegroom?

    I was 21 years old when my husband proposed to me in front of my parents. I was so excited and happy that I couldn’t think about anything else. My thoughts were only on my fiancé. But after I recovered from the initial shock, my parents sat me down, and we talked about the wedding preparations. Choosing a date; choosing the bridesmaids; making a wedding list; looking for a venue; selecting a menu; ordering invitations; looking for a church; looking for the perfect dress and shoes; finding a band, and photographer, etc. It was so overwhelming that I left all the planning to my mother. All I ever wanted was to marry my prince. So I went along with everything my mother suggested. 

    During this waiting period, the bride prepares herself for her bridegroom. She doesn’t do it to win his love because he already loves her and chose her to be his bride.

    The same is true with our Lord Jesus. He chose us, set us apart, and eagerly awaits the day He would see His bride. 

    During the waiting period, we (the bride) want to transform our hearts and thoughts to be pure; we want our faces to shine brightly when we see Jesus face to face. 

    We are spoken for by our Lord, Jesus. What does that mean? 

    Like a bride-to-be, we are engaged, set apart, called out, a holy bride. Forbidden waters hold nothing for you and me. Let us not waste our time by settling for a one-night stand in the arms of a stranger (the world). 

    Let us guard our hearts against the root of bitterness, unforgiveness, and giving in to worldly temptations. Let us spend this waiting period to get to know our Bridegroom by reading His Word and allowing the Holy Spirit to transform us from the inside out by “setting our minds on things that are above, not on things that are on earth.” (Colossians 3:2 ESV)

    We are engaged to royalty, and our Prince, Jesus, is coming one day to take you and me home with Him. So, let us wait with expectancy for the return of our Bridegroom, and as we wait, let us keep our eyes on Him and prepare our hearts and body until His return.

    Lord, thank you for choosing me and setting me apart to be Your bride. Help me keep my eyes on You and everything pure as I expectantly await Your return. I love you, Lord Jesus.

    Reference:

    1. Scripture quotations are from the ESV Bible (The Holy Bible, English Standard Version), copyright 2001 by Crossway, a Good News Publishers publishing ministry. Used by permission. All rights reserved
    2. Image: “Righteous Crown” by Kume Bryant: HTTP: redbubble.com

     

     

     

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  • Breaking Ground

    Breaking Ground

    “The weapons we fight with are not the weapons of the world. On the contrary, they have divine power to demolish strongholds.” 2 Corinthians 10:4 NIV

    Today, K-Love was playing the song “Look What You’ve Done” by Tasha Layton. Suddenly something unique happened in my heart. As I listened to the song, tears began to fall down my face. I had to stop what I was doing. I was unable to contain or explain what I was experiencing. My heart was so full of joy, yet I couldn’t stop sobbing.

    For years, I’ve brought into the enemy’s lies that I’m not good enough—not a good mother, wife, friend and especially not good enough for God. But even when I couldn’t see it, God was breaking ground and tearing down every lie I had been holding on to since I could remember. I had no idea that the enemy was using these strongholds as excuses to bind me.

    But Jesus has been at work in my heart all these years. He was breaking down and removing every brick. Although it has been a long journey, Jesus’ love for me has broken down every wall and has set me free. “The weapons we fight with are not the weapons of the world. On the contrary, they have divine power to demolish strongholds.” (2 Cor. 10:4)

    While I was experiencing this spiritual revival in my heart, I heard a student’s testimony on K-Love about what happened at Asbury University in Kentucky yesterday. The Lord led a few students to the chapel, where they began to pray openly and confess their sins, worries, pains, and concerns to the Lord.
    He has been leading more and more people to join them during the past ten days. That was the revival being discussed on the news, Tick tock, and other social media sites.

    What makes this so unique is that we don’t need to travel to Kentucky to connect with God and experience a spiritual revival in our hearts. That’s exactly what happened to me today! We can do it from wherever we are. By surrendering to Him all our hurts and pains and allowing Him to do what He does best: repair and transform our hearts.

    Friends, even though I knew Jesus loved me and gave His life for me, I still believed the lies that I wasn’t good enough. But I was wrong; Jesus never stopped loving me or working in me to transform me into His image. God knows the real me. Despite knowing what I’ve done, He still chose me.

    I’m not there yet; I’m a work in progress. Every moment, I am being transformed, until one day I will be able to say like Paul, “I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.” (2 Timothy 4:7)

    Thank you, Father, for your faithfulness and unfailing love for me and my family. Thank you for showing me the areas that need to be torn down. Lord, You are the God of revival. Revive our hearts and tear down any stronghold that keeps us from completely surrendering our hearts to You. In Jesus’ name, I praise and give You all the glory, amen.

    Reference:
    Scripture quotations taken from The Holy Bible, New International Version. Copyright 1973, 1978,1984,2011 by Biblica Inc.

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  • From Death To Life

    From Death To Life

    “I am the resurrection and the life. The one who believes in me will live even though they die. And whoever lives by believing in me will never die.”
    (John 11:25-26 NIV)

    John chapter 11 portrays Jesus as having power over death. My entire life changed when my beloved father passed away 23 years ago. Incredible grief consumed me. I remember the therapist suggesting visiting my father’s grave so I could find comfort and accept that he was gone forever.

    Unfortunately, that didn’t help at all. Visiting my father’s grave only confirmed the fact that he was dead and I would never see him again. The emptiness in my heart from losing my father has taken many years to heal. Today, the Lord reminded me of John 11:25-26, “I am the resurrection and the life. The one who believes in me will live even though they die. And whoever lives by believing in me will never die.”

    I paused and reflected on this passage. Lord, help me understand what you are trying to teach me through this passage. How many times have I read this passage since I became a Christian? Like Martha, I knew that one day we would be resurrected on the last day.

    But what did Jesus exactly mean when He said, “I am the resurrection and the life. The one who believes in me will live even though they die. And whoever lives by believing in me will never die.” And then when He asked Martha to show him where Lazarus was buried. Martha responded, “By this time there is a bad odor, for he has been there four days.” (John 11:39 NIV)

    This is where I came to the realization that before the Lord Jesus came, we were all dead and buried due to our transgressions. We didn’t need someone to fix us; we needed someone to die for us and raise us, just like he did for Lazarus. Jesus didn’t want to abandon us in the grave, where we would rot from the inside out. So what did He do? He came, died for us, and called us out from the grave.

    After the fall, God speaks to the Serpent (Satan), “And I will put enmity between you and the woman, and between your offspring and hers; he will crush your head, and you will strike his heel.” (Gen. 3:15 NIV)

    With His foot planted on Satan’s head, Jesus loudly said, “I am the resurrection and the life. The one who believes in me will live, even though they die, and whoever lives by believing in me will never die.” (John 11:25-26 NIV)

    Beloved, we were once dead, but now we are alive because of Jesus’ sacrifice. The Apostle Paul said, “Because of his great love for us, God, who is rich in mercy, made us alive with Christ even when we were dead in transgression- it is by grace you have been saved. And God raised us with Christ and seated us with him in the heavenly realms in Christ Jesus. (Ephesians. 2:4-6 NIV)

    So, while my father’s physical body may be dead, he is still alive in Christ. He was made alive with Christ when he accepted Jesus as his Savior.

    I no longer visit my father’s grave and mourn his death. Instead, I celebrate the fact that he is alive in Christ, and I will one day see him again.

    Lord Jesus, thank you for your mercy and grace. Thank you for overcoming death and rescuing me and my loved ones from the end. I was once dead in my transgressions, but because of your love and grace, I am now alive, and one day, I will return to you and live with you for all eternity. I love you, Lord Jesus.

    Reference

    The Lucado Encouraging Word Holy Bible New International Version (2020. Nashville, Tennessee: Thomas Nelson

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  • Waiting with Expectancy

     “Now there was a man in Jerusalem called Simeon, who was righteous and devout… It had been revealed to him by the Holy Spirit that he would not die before he had seen the Lord’s Messiah. Luke 2:25, 26 NIV

    Jesus was born seven hundred years after Isaiah foretold the prophecy of the coming of the Messiah. Wow, that’s a long time—700 years! I don’t know about you, but I’m not very patient.

    Luke, however, tells us of two people who lived their lives waiting with expectancy for the coming of the Messiah who would one day redeem Israel.

    One of them is a man by the name of Simeon. Simeon is described as a righteous and devout man, who was eagerly awaiting the arrival of the Messiah to come and save Israel. The Holy Spirit had revealed to Simeon that “he would not die before he had seen the Lord’s Messiah.” (See Luke 2:6-27)

    We meet Simeon for the first time outside the temple. Jesus is brought to the temple by Mary and Joseph for His circumcision ceremony. Simeon felt prompted to go to the temple as they were preparing to dedicate their eight-day-old son to God. (Luke 2:27 NIV)

    There, at the temple courts, Simeon saw the promised Messiah.

    “Sovereign Lord, as you have promised, you may now dismiss your servant in peace. For my eyes have seen your salvation.” (Luke 2:29-30 NIV)

    What does it mean to wait with expectation?

    According to Boyd Bailey, to wait with expectancy means: “We don’t fret or wait fearfully. Instead, we wait, expecting God to engage in our world while faith fills our soul with expectation.” (Bailey, 2010, para. 2)

    For Simeon, it was not a question of whether it would happen but when it would happen. He patiently awaited the coming of the Messiah because he was confident that God would keep His word.

    God never revealed the day or hour to Simeon. Only that he would see the Messiah before he died. With the knowledge that one day we would see the Messiah, how many of us would have clung to this promise and remained faithful throughout every season of our lives? I doubt I could have done it.

    Luke also mentioned another faithful person who eagerly waited to see the promised Messiah. Her name was Anna.  She was “the daughter of Penuel, of the tribe of Asher. She was very old; she had lived with her husband seven years after her marriage and then was a widow until she was eighty-four. She never left the temple but worshiped night and day.” (Luke 2:36-38 NIV)

    When Jesus was being presented at the temple, Anna saw the young couple carrying their baby. She hurried over to them and realized the baby Mary was holding was the One for whom she had been praying and waiting. He was the Messiah.

    “She gave thanks to God and spoke about the child to all who were looking forward to the redemption of Jerusalem.” (Luke 2:38)

    Friends, I want to be like Simeon and Anna, who eagerly awaited the Messiah’s coming. They didn’t just believe; they knew God’s promise to their ancestors was true. They had a Biblical Hope.

    Max Lucado states, “Biblical Hope is the confident expectation that something good is ahead. But since it is not there, we must stay alert because hope pays attention. And one day, hope pays off. Then, all the waiting gives away to wonder.” (Lucado, p. 1465 )

    Let us wait with expectancy for the second coming of the Lord, and while we wait, let us share the good news of God’s gift with others and tell them how much our life has changed because of His Grace and mercy.

    Lord, thank you for reminding me of what it means to wait patiently for the day I will see you face to face. Please help me to be proactive and not passive in waiting. Please help me to keep my eyes on You and continue running my race. “You will keep in perfect peace, all who trust in you, all whose thoughts are fixed on you.” (Isaiah 26:3 NLT)

     

    Reference

    • Holy Bible New Living Translation, 2015 Tyndale House Publishers, Inc.
    • Bailey, Boyd. Wait In Expectation. Wisdom Hunters. May 13, 2010 wisdomhunters.com/wait-in-expectation
    • The Lucado Encouraging Word Bible, New International Version, Max Lucado, gen. ed., Nashville, Tennessee: Thomas Nelson, 2020

     

     

     

       

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    1. One With US

      person writing on a notebook
      Photo by Tara Winstead on Pexels.com

      “All right then, the Lord himself will give you the sign. Look! The Virgin will conceive a child! She will give birth to a son and will call him Immanuel (which means ‘God is with us’) 

      Isaiah 7:14 NLT

      God with us! These words resonate in my heart, soul, and mind—what a precious gift to have God among us.

      Isaiah prophesied about the promised child- the seed of David that one day would come to redeem His people and restore our relationship with our Heavenly Father.

      This precious child was to be born from a virgin Jewish girl and was to be called Immanuel, which means ‘God with us in Hebrew.

       The Scriptures tell us, “The first man, Adam, became a living person. It was necessary for Jesus to be born of a virgin because the “last Adam or second Adam” could not be contaminated with the inherited stain of the “first Adam’s” sin and rebellion. (1 Corinthians 15:45-49, translation)

      ” But the last Adam…Christ—is a life-giving Spirit. (1Corinthians 45-49 NLT)

      Immanuel, the second Adam, had to be like the first Adam in that He was sinless yet had the capacity to sin out of free choice. Untainted (not contaminated; polluted or tainted) but able to choose His way.

      Jesus was born to be our substitute; He didn’t merely come to die for us—He died as us. What am I saying? Jesus had the option to choose to go His own way, but He chose not to. Jesus made the decision to take our place on the cross.

      Lord, thank you for Your unfailing love. Thank you for leaving all your splendor and glory to join this sinful world to forgive us and restore our relationship with the Father. Lord, you became human to understand what it is like to feel hunger, pain, fear, disappointment, betrayal, abuse, desire, joy, laughter, delight, and every other experience common to humanity. Lord, Jesus, thank you for not letting me spend eternity without You. Jesus, you are Immanuel, God with me and in me.  In your precious name, amen!

      Reference

      • Holy Bible New Living Translation, 2015 Tyndale House Publishers, Inc
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    2. True Happiness

      silhouette photo of woman against during golden hour
      Photo by Jill Wellington on Pexels.com

      “You will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.” – John 8:32 (NIV)

       

      So often, I hear people speaking about what makes them happy. But what exactly is happiness? According to an article on verywellmind.com titled “What Is Happiness?” written by Kendra Cherry, “Happiness is an emotional state characterized by joy, satisfaction, contentment, and fulfillment.” The article acknowledges that happiness can take on different forms and definitions and “is often described as involving positive emotions and life satisfaction.”

      The Merriam-Webster Dictionary defines happiness as “a state of well-being and contentment,” as well as “a pleasurable or satisfying experience.” 

      Although there are many different definitions of happiness, it is often said to involve “positive emotions and life satisfaction.https://www.meriam-webter.com/dictionary/happiness“

      If we examine all the definitions of happiness, we find that it is a simple emotion that refers to a feeling of fulfillment and contentment. But what happens when those feelings go away?

      Many of us feel happy when we complete tasks such as shopping, decorating our perfect home and caring for our loved ones, family, spouse/or partner, and children. But what happens when those things or people are no longer available or in our lives?

      Some people spend most of their lives peering through a glass window, looking at others who appear happy. We all want things we think will make us happy. I know people who shop when they feel empty because buying what they want or like makes them happy. But does it, though? 

      I was once one of those people who watched the world through a glass window. I used to believe I could only be happy if I obtained what I wanted or what others had. However, the truth is that none of those things brought me true happiness. Instead, after some time, it made me feel empty. Why? Because there was an emptiness in my heart that could not be filled with possessions, jobs, and praise from others.

       So, after many years of searching for happiness to fill the emptiness in my heart, I finally understood that Jesus was the only one who could fill my void and bring me joy. I knew how much Jesus loved me. As I read God’s Word, I began to see the blessings God had given me even before I was born. He entrusted my care to the hands of my two wonderful parents who would love, protect, and guide me, so I could one day grow into the woman God created me to be.

      My parents weren’t perfect, but neither was I. God blessed me with three siblings. And even though we loved each other, we were constantly at odds with one another. Unfortunately, those negative traits were passed on to my daughters and their children. 

      However, how can I rebuild those messy relationships with God’s help? Knowing who God is and who I am, has given me the strength to see my past through his eyes of grace.

      According to my friend Ann Knopp, author of “Pursuing Jesus, Obeying Jesus, and Living Jesus,” drivers use their rearview mirror to assist them when backing up or parallel parking their vehicles. However, drivers are not meant to look back through their rear mirrors because it increases the likelihood that they will miss what is in front of them and cause an accident.” 

      The same is true for us in our Christian walk. The enemy loves to keep us focused on the past and focused on the “what ifs.” It’s a way to divert our attention from what God has in front of us and prevent us from seeing the accurate picture.

      I often reflect on the past, wishing I could go back and right my wrongs; be a better example for my children, husband, friends, and family. But the truth is there is nothing I can do to change anything. All I can do is keep my eyes fixed on Jesus, thank him for his forgiveness, mercy, and grace, and continue running my race. Jesus knew my past before I was born, and he decided to die for me and reconcile me to the Father. Therefore, I must embrace who I am in Christ.

      In Colossians 1:10-14 (NIV), Paul gives us a list of the things he prayed for in his life. We can also hold on to this list as we continue to run our race. His list was summarized by my friend Ann Knopp in her book “Pursuing Jesus, Obeying Jesus, Living for Jesus” (Knopp, Ann L. p. 93) as follows: 

      • Live a life worthy of the Lord. 

      • Please Him in every way.

      • Bear fruit in every good work.

      • Be strengthened in His Power.

      • Have great endurance and patience, and joyfully give thanks to the Father.

      • Share in the inheritance of the saints in the Kingdom.

      • Know that we have been saved from the darkness (which is the grip of Satan’s hand) to full redemption and forgiveness in Christ.

      • Be a person who honors the Lord.

      Therefore, I decided today to put the past where it belongs and keep my eyes on Jesus, run my race, and joyfully await the return of my Lord Jesus. True happiness can only come from knowing Jesus, walking with Jesus, and living with Jesus.

      John 8:32 (NIV) says, “You will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.” True happiness and freedom can only come to us by knowing Jesus. We are no longer prisoners in chains; we are free. We don’t need to continue believing the enemy’s lies. Jesus took our place on the cross and took the punishment for our past, present, and future. So, we don’t need to live in chains. 

      When we fall into our old habits of looking back to our past instead of looking at what is ahead, let us remember that Jesus fully paid our account. My mistakes and wrongdoings don’t define me; Jesus’ sacrifice, love, mercy, and Grace represent who I am. Furthermore, this is not a feeling that can last only for a few moments. No, His love and Grace are eternal.

      Lord Jesus, you paid the price on that cross to set me free from bondage. I’m no longer the person I used to be. I’m a new creation in You. Please help me remember who you are, and I am because of you. Thank you for your word, which strengthens me when I’m weak and continues to reassure me of who I am. I am your child and coheir with Jesus. In your precious name, I pray, amen!

      References: 

      1. Knopp, Ann L, Pursue Jesus, Obey Jesus, Live for Jesus. Copyright by Ann L Knopp, Christian Faith Publishing, 2021
      2. (Merriam-Webster.com, Merriam-Webster, https://dictionary/happiness. Accessed 26 November 2022)
      3. NIV Bible (New International Version)
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    3. A Promised Seed

      close up photo of bible
      Photo by Brett Jordan on Pexels.com

      And I will cause hostility between you and the woman and between your offspring and her offspring.
      He will strike your head, and you will strike his heel.” Genesis 3:15 NLT


      In Genesis 3:15, following the fall of humanity, our Heavenly Father declared and gave us a hint of His plan to restore our relationship with Him.


      The serpent (devil) deceived Eve into eating the forbidden fruit, but Adam willfully disobeyed the Word of the Lord.   Because of this act of disobedience, humanity fell. 

      However, because of God’s unfailing love and mercy, He promised that one day the woman’s seed—a descendant or offspring – would restore our relationship with Him.


      “And I will cause hostility between you and the woman and between your offspring and her offspring. He will strike your head, and you will strike His heel.”

      Our Heavenly Father was referring to Jesus, our Messiah and our Savior.

      The Scripture also tells us of a man named Abram (Abraham), who was called by the Lord to go to the place.
      He had prepared for Abraham and his descendants. God also told Abraham that his seed (plural) would become a nation from which an exceptional seed (singular) would one day emerge.


      “And through your descendants, all the nations of the earth will be blessed—all because you have obeyed Me.”
      (Genesis 22:18, NIV)


      Then, the day finally arrived about two millennia after Abraham received that promise. An angel of the Lord
      announced to a young Jewish virgin that the season had come for that long-awaited promised seed to emerge from
      Abraham’s seed pot (descendants).


      In his blog: A Seed Must Die, Ken Winter wrote, “But the fact of the matter is that the seed must die for life to burst
      out. As it dies, it transforms into deep roots and stems that soon make their way out of the dirt into the air to grow
      and blossom.”(Winter, 2020)

      I remember a few years ago, Pastor Sharon Gonzalez once shared with us a life word the Lord had given her:

      “The seed that dies in the Winter, comes up in the Spring, and bears fruit in the Fall. It may not come up
      in the form which you expect it to; nevertheless, it shall come up.” (Sharon Gonzalez, Pure Grace Ministries)

      Jesus was the seed that was promised to Abraham and his descendants. He was born to be the seed that died and was
      planted on the earth for our redemption.

      Sadly, the Israelites expected a king who would set them free with swords, but Jesus was the exact opposite.

      Although He was a King in every sense of the word, He left all His glory to become a servant and take our place on the cross to restore our relationship with our Heavenly Father.

      When Jesus died and rose from the dead on the third day, He forever crushed the head of the ancient serpent.

      Father, thank you for reminding me today of your precious gift of love for all humanity. Jesus is the
      promised seed who crushed the enemy and restored our relationship with You. Help me to remember the true meaning of Christmas throughout this holiday season. Give me opportunities to share Your precious Christmas gift with family and friends. In the precious name of Jesus, amen!

      • References
        · The Lucado Encouraging Word Bible, Max Lucado, gen. ed., Nashville, Tennessee: Thomas Nelson, 2020
      • Winter, Ken. 2020: “A Seed Must Die.”  https://kenwinter.org/blog/a-seed-must-die
      • Pastor Sharon Gonzalez- Pure Grace Ministries
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    4. Uncompromised Faith

      "I issue a decree that in every part of my Kingdom, people must fear and reverence the God of Daniel. For he is the living God and endures forever; his Kingdom will not be destroyed, and his dominion will never end." Daniel 6:26 NIV

      According to the Book of Daniel, Chapters 5 & 6, no matter how much authority we believe we have on earth, we learn that God is ultimately in control. He is supreme over all creation.

      A message for the King of Babylon appeared on the wall during a lavish feast. Daniel was called to interpret the message, which told of the impending fall of Babylon. “The Most High God rules in the kingdom of men and appoints over it whosoever He chooses.” Daniel 5:21 NIV

      After Daniel interpreted the writings on the wall, he was appointed the third-highest ruler in the Kingdom of Babylon. The interesting thing about Daniel was his integrity and faithfulness to his One true God. Daniel never accepted gifts or rewards for his ability to interpret dreams since he knew that God alone had bestowed this gift upon him. He never boasted about his abilities but rather about who God was.

      “You may keep your gifts for yourself and give your reward to someone else. Nevertheless, I will read the writing for the king and tell what it means.” Daniel 5:17 NIV

      Although Daniel was aware that his actions might have consequences, he never compromised his trust and belief in God.

      Daniel found favor in the eyes of Darius, who succeeded Belshazzar as king, because of his integrity. But sadly, the king’s administrators were jealous of Daniel, and since they could not find any fault in him, they chose to use his faith against him.

      “We will never find any basis for charges against this man Daniel unless it has something to do with the law of his god.” Daniel 6:5 NIV

      So they went to King Darius and persuaded him to issue a decree that anyone who prayed to any god or person within 30 days—aside from the king—would be thrown into the lion’s den. (Daniel 6:6-7)

      The amazing thing about Daniel is that while he was aware of the decree and its consequences, he refused to compromise his faith and continued to pray to God. (See Daniel 6:10-11)

      As a result, the king’s administrators accused Daniel and asked the king to uphold his decree. Although the king did not want to harm Daniel, he was forced to uphold his law. “May your God whom you serve continually rescue you.” (Daniel 6:16 NIV

      Daniel trusted in God despite the circumstances. The following morning, King Darius went to the lion’s den to see if Daniel was still alive. “Daniel, the servant of the living God, has your God whom you serve continually been able to rescue you from the lions?” (Daniel 6:20 NIV)

      Daniel responded, “May the king live forever! My God sent his angel, and he shut the mouths of the lions. They have not hurt me because I was found innocent in his sight. Nor have I ever done any wrong before your sight.” Daniel 6:21-22 NIV

      Despite his alarming situation, Daniel trusted God; even if the lions had devoured him, he knew who God was. He refused to compromise his trust, faith, and belief in the One true God.

      Like Daniel, all of us have encountered difficult situations and been given the same choice Daniel had: do we compromise our faith and trust in God, or do we let the circumstances or the outside world’s influence dictate our path and change who God created us to be?

      I don’t know about you, but I have shamefully compromised my faith and trust in God many times throughout my life. But the Lord has been so kind, patient, and merciful that He continues to guide me and lovingly shepherds me back to the right path.

      A song by Clint Brown called “If Not For Grace” reminds me constantly of who God is and what He has done for me.

      “Where would I be? You only know. I’m glad you see through eyes of love: a hopeless case and an empty place if not for Grace. Amazing Grace, how sweet the sound. I once was lost, but now I’m found. A hopeless case and empty place if not for Grace.”

      Yes, Lord Jesus. Where would I be if You hadn’t found me? I am no longer a “hopeless case or an empty place” because of Your Grace. Thank you for loving me so much that you left everything to save a wreck like me.

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    5. La Santidad de Dios Silencia La jactancia Humana

      “¡Ay de mí! Lloré. ¡Estoy arruinado! Porque soy hombre inmundo de labios, y habito en medio de un pueblo de labios inmundos, y mis ojos han visto al Rey, al Señor Todopoderoso”. Isaías 6:5

      Cuando Isaías vio la santidad de Dios, cayó sobre su rostro y se dio cuenta de que no era digno de estar en la presencia del Señor Todopoderoso. La santidad de Dios silenció su jactancia humana. ¿Con qué frecuencia nos encontramos en situaciones en las que sentimos la tentación de jactarnos de nuestro trabajo, estatus o posesiones? Sin embargo, cuando nos encontramos cara a cara con Jesús, nada de eso importa.

      La visión de Isaías nunca fue sobre él, sino sobre Dios y su gloria. Isaías estaba consciente de su inmundicia e indignidad cuando se encontró con Dios. Se humilló en la presencia de Dios y dijo: “¡Ay de mí! Lloré. ¡Estoy arruinado! Porque soy hombre inmundo de labios, y habito en medio de un pueblo de labios inmundos, y mis ojos han visto al Rey, al Señor Todopoderoso”.

      Cuando la humildad de Isaías se movió, Dios envió serafines para limpiar los labios de Isaías con brasas. “Mira, esto había tocado tus labios; es quitada vuestra culpa, y expiados vuestros pecados (Isaías 6:6-7). A través de este acto, Dios le demostró a Isaías y a nosotros que la única forma en que podemos llegar a ser santos es a través de Su misericordia y gracia.

      Lo notable es que Isaías no hace pedidos ni espera nada porque es consciente de su indignidad e inmundicia. Sin embargo, descubrió a un Dios misericordioso y perdonador que lo perdona y redirige su vida. “¿A quién enviaré? ¿Y quién irá por nosotros? Isaías no dudó ni un segundo. “Aquí estoy. ¡Envíame!” Todo lo que necesitó fue vislumbrar la santidad y la misericordia del Señor, y la vida de Isaías cambió por completo.

      La Escritura habla de muchas personas cuyas vidas han sido transformadas por la misericordia y la gracia de Dios. Soy una de esas personas impuras e impías cuya vida ha sido transformada por la misericordia, el amor y la gracia del Señor. No vi la santidad de Dios cara a cara, pero fui transformada por cuánto me ama a pesar de mi vergüenza y mis malas acciones. Dios ha tocado mi vida para que pueda compartir su amor, misericordia y gracia con los demás. Todos estamos llamados a compartir el amor y la gracia de Dios con aquellos que lo necesitan.

      Amigos, no sé a qué temporada se enfrentan actualmente, pero anímense; vuestro Padre Celestial os ama con amor inagotable y os eligió. Tú le importas a Él. Mantén tus ojos en Jesús. Deja que Su amor, misericordia y gracia transformen tu vida como transformó la mía. Al contemplarlo, nos volvemos como Él.

      Padre, gracias por tu amor, misericordia y gracia inagotables. Ayúdame a mantener mis ojos en ti en todo momento y jactarme solo de ti y de lo que has hecho en mi vida. En tu precioso nombre, te doy las gracias. Amén.

       

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    6. God’s Holiness, Silence Human Boasting

      “Woe to me! I cried. ‘I am ruined! For I am a man of unclean lips, and I live among a people of unclean lips, and my eyes have seen the King, the Lord Almighty.” Isaiah 6:5 NIV

      Humans tend to boast about many things: our careers, accomplishments, financial status, etc. But today, the Lord showed me through Isaiah that who we think we are and what we have can’t be compared to Who God is and His holiness.

      When Isaiah saw God’s holiness, he fell on his face and realized that he was unworthy to be in the presence of the Lord Almighty. This is because God’s holiness silences his human boasting. “Woe to me! I cried. ‘I am ruined! For I am a man of unclean lips, and I live among a people of unclean lips, and my eyes have seen the King, the Lord Almighty.”

       How often do we find ourselves in situations where we are tempted to boast about our job, status, or possessions? Yet, when we come face to face with Jesus, none of this matters.

      Isaiah’s vision was never about him but about God and His glory. Isaiah was aware of his uncleanness and unworthiness when he met with God. He humbled himself in God’s presence and said, “Woe to me! I cried. ‘I am ruined! For I am a man of unclean lips, and I live among a people of unclean lips, and my eyes have seen the King, the Lord Almighty.” 

      When Isaiah humbled himself before the Lord, God sent seraphim to cleanse Isaiah’s lips with hot coal. “See, this has touched your lips; your guilt is taken away, and your sins atoned for (Isaiah 6:6-7). Through this act, God demonstrated to Isaiah and us that the only way we may become holy is through His mercy and grace.

      What’s remarkable is that Isaiah makes no requests and expects nothing because he knows his unworthiness and uncleanliness. Yet, he discovered a merciful and forgiving God who forgives him and redirects his life. “Whom shall I send? And who will go for us?” Isaiah didn’t hesitate for a second. “Here am I. Send me!” All it took was a glimpse of the Lord’s holiness and mercy, and Isaiah’s life was changed completely. 

      The Scripture speaks of many people whose lives have been transformed by God’s mercy and grace. I am one of those unclean, unholy people whose life has been transformed by the Lord’s mercy, love, and grace. I didn’t see God’s holiness face to face, but I was transformed by how much He loves me despite my shame and wrongdoings. God has touched my life so I can share His love, mercy, and grace with others. We are all called to share God’s love and grace with those who need it.

      Friends, I don’t know what season you’re currently facing but be encouraged; your Heavenly Father loves you with unfailing love and chose you. You matter to Him. Keep your eyes on Jesus. Let His love, mercy, and grace transform your life as He has transformed mine. By beholding Him, we become like Him. 

      Father, thank you for your unfailing love, mercy, and grace. Help me keep my eyes on you every moment and boast only about You and what You have done in my life. In your precious name, I thank you. Amen.

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    7. When God Unexpectanly Shows Up

       
      “The LORD is my refuge,” and you make the Highest your dwelling, no harm will overtake you, no disaster will come near your tent. For he will command his angels concerning you to guard you in all your ways; they will lift you in their hands so that you will not strike your foot against a stone”. 
      Psalm 91:8-13 NIV





      I remember going to school in the fall of 1992 to take a midterm exam. The night before my husband and I had a heated argument the previous evening. I don’t remember what the fight was about, but I do recall that we were both angry and didn’t speak to each other after it. We were both ready to give up. Everything was going wrong. I felt like God was so very far away from me.

      Early that morning, I dropped off my daughters at school before taking my midterm. After finishing the exam, I felt an overwhelming desire to call my husband and ask him for his forgiveness. So, I went to the payphone, took some quarters, and called my husband. After our conversation, I had a tremendous sense of peace in my heart.

      I then left the school and walked towards the bus stop. My mind was so preoccupied with everything that was going on in my life that I started to speak to the Lord and unveiled my heart to Him. Even though I wasn’t sure that He was listening, I couldn’t stop talking to Him. I didn’t notice an elderly woman standing next to me as I waited for the light to change. I didn’t give it much thought since it wasn’t anything out of the ordinary. She was another pedestrian waiting for the light to change. 

      I looked away from the elderly woman and noticed a truck blocking the crossroad. As I waited for the light to turn green, I also saw a white car waiting for the light to change. 

      Unfortunately, the driver wasn’t paying attention since he was too busy kissing his girlfriend. When the light changed, I attempted to cross the street, but the older woman smiled at me as she pushed me out of the way. 

      Suddenly, the white car hit us, and we were thrown into the middle of the expressway. I remember crawling over to where the older woman was lying down and whispering in her ears, “Please don’t die. Help is on the way.” 

      The students who witnessed the accident ran to help me and carried me to safety while they called for an ambulance. I asked them to help the elderly woman because she was severely hurt. 

      They looked at me and started to mumble something. Unfortunately, the ambulance took too long to arrive, so I asked the students to help me get on the bus. When I got home, my girls and my husband were already there. They took me to the ER and the police station to report the accident. 

      After they had taken my statement, my husband asked the police about the older woman who was hit. They looked at us as though we were weird. “There was no one else at the scene except your wife. “That’s impossible!” I said. “An elderly woman was hit because she pushed me out of the way.” “Well, I guess you have a guardian angel by your side because there was no report made of another person being hit except you.”

      This accident still haunts me today. Who was that elderly woman who saved my life? Unfortunately, there are no records of an elderly woman being hit by a car on that day, time, or location. So then, who was she, and where did she come from?

      The Lord reminded me of this incident that occurred in 1992 as I read Psalm 91 today. “If you say, “The LORD is my refuge, and you make the Highest your dwelling, no harm will overtake you, no disaster will come near your tent. For he will command his angels concerning you to guard you in all your ways; they will lift you in their hands so that you will not strike your foot against a stone.” (Psalm 91:8-13 NIV)

      Who was that old lady who saved my life in 1992? It was an angel sent by the Lord to protect me and save my life. Psalm 91 says, “For he will command his angels concerning you to guard you in all your ways; they will lift you in their hands so that you will not strike your foot against a stone.”

      But why me? I don’t know, but God thought I was worth saving. He knew the work he had begun in me was not finished. He created me on purpose and for a purpose. What is that purpose? It’s something I’m still figuring out. But I know my story was only beginning in 1992. 

      Sometimes we live our lives believing the enemy’s lies—that we are worthless and have no purpose. But that, my friend, is a lie. Our story would not be complete without our missteps, wrongdoings, and mess. God will cause all things to work together for our good. (See Ro. 8:28)

      So let’s run our race and accept both the good and the bad. Let’s focus on Jesus and trust that He will complete the work He started in us.

      Father, thank you for saving my life so many times and never leaving me alone, even when circumstances show that I am alone. Thank you for creating me on purpose and for a purpose. Guide me and show me what Your calling is in my life so I can continue to run my race, knowing that You’re by my side and that my story will bring You honor. In Jesus’ precious name, amen!

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    8. Facing Our Goliath

      “Who is this uncircumcised Philistine that he should defy the armies of the living God?” 1Samuel 17:26 NIV

      Last Saturday, my husband took me to see “David” at the Sight and Sound Theater in Lancaster, Pennsylvania. I prayed to the Lord right before the concert started, asking Him to keep me from being distracted from the message He wanted me to learn. 

      When the show started, my mind completely blocked the noises, the people’s complaints regarding their seats’ locations, and the sound effects; I could only see David, a shepherd boy playing his harp and singing songs to His God. Then the Lord focused my attention on David’s reaction to the threat Goliath represented to the Israelites.

       When David saw how Goliath mocked God, he said, “Who is this uncircumcised Philistine that he should defy the armies of the living God?” David knew that the same God that delivered him from the lion and the bear’s paw would deliver him from the Philistine. (See 1Samuel 17:37)

       Without hesitating, David took five stones and headed out to face Goliath. He didn’t go up against Goliath because he could but because he knew God was with him. 

      Through this act of faith from David, the Lord showed me that we, too, face many giants every day, including loneliness, anger, despair, doubt, fear, anxiety, mistrust, shame, pain and embarrassing pasts, relationships, family, loss, unfulfilled aspirations, sexual assault, and many others.  

      But like David, we must look past our Goliath and recognize that we serve a God who can defeat our most formidable enemy.

      God shows up when we’re out of options and exceeds our expectations. 

      Saul and the Israelites trusted their strength and armor. But when they failed, they

      retreated. Although running away from our “Goliath” might feel safe initially, it will not go away unless we face it head-on with the Lord, as David did.

      Friends, I have run away from my “Goliath” many times, hoping it would go away.

      But I’ve come to learn that, despite my “Goliath,” God is with me, fighting for and beside

      me. What do I do now when I face one of my “Goliath”? 

      I run into the arms of my Heavenly Father, confident that He will deliver me no matter the

      outcome. For the battle belongs to the Lord. 

      “All those gathered here will know that it is not by sword or spear that the LORD

      saves; for the battle is the LORD’s, and he will give all of you into our

      hands.” 1 Samuel 17:47 NIV

      No matter what situation we find ourselves in, we can trust and turn to the Lord, knowing that He loves us and has the power to turn any situation around.

      Lord, thank you for reminding me through David that I don’t fight my giants alone.

      You are with me and will fight for me; my battles belong to you alone. In your

      precious, amen.

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    9. A Lamp for Living an Obedient Life Through Grace

      “Trust 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 path straight.” Proverbs 3:5-6 NIV

      What are you seeking today? Are you seeking God first? Or are you so preoccupied with living your daily life and trying to accomplish your goals?

      Following the death of his father, King David, God appeared to King Solomon in a dream and said, “Ask for whatever you want me to give you.” (1 King 3:5-6) Instead of asking for wealth, power, or the destruction of all his enemies, King Solomon asked the Lord to give him a discerning heart to govern God’s people and to distinguish between right and wrong. (1 King 3:6-9)

      King Solomon understood that he needed God’s wisdom and guidance in order to lead God’s people. God was pleased that Solomon had asked for wisdom and guidance. Not only did He grant King Solomon with a discerning heart, but he gave him wealth and honor. (See 1 King 3:10-13)

      In the Book of Proverbs, King Solomon shares with us wise words for daily living.

      Max Lucado once said, “The Book of Proverbs is a collection of lamps. Not spotlights that blind. Not bonfires that blaze. But lamps. Lamps that do for your heart what the lamps in your house do for your eyes. They chase away the darkness.” 

      What a powerful statement! The Book of Proverbs contains many wise counsels for daily living. They shed light to us in our daily walk, as does the whole of scripture, as we see in Psalm 119:10:

      “Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.” – ESV

      My Pastor once said: “This verse tells me that when I’m in His word, it will show me where I stand and guide me to what my next step should be.”

      However, Proverbs needs to be viewed through the lens of Grace and the finished work of the Cross. Proverbs can very easily become a series of do’s and don’ts, thus becoming formulaic. A sort of step-by-step instruction on how to be right with God. But, here’s the thing:

      We ARE ALREADY right with God through our Lord Jesus Christ!

      “For just as through the disobedience of the one man the many were made sinners, so also through the obedience of the one man, the many will be made righteous.” Romans 5:19 NIV

      Secondly, if we don’t see Proverbs through the lens of Jesus’ finished work on the Cross, we would be seeking righteousness through works (the law) and not but faith (Grace):

      “For if you are trying to make yourselves right with God by keeping the law, you have been cut off from Christ! You have fallen away from God’s Grace.” Galatians 5:4 NLT

      We grow in wisdom and lead fruitful lives, not defeated ones when we keep our eyes fixed on Jesus and allow the Word to be our daily guide. 

      When anxious about tomorrow’s uncertainties, I can run to Proverbs and sit under the light of trust. “Commit to the Lord whatever you do, and he will establish your path.” Proverbs 16:3

      When facing conflict, I can run to Proverbs and turn on the lamp of patience. “A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.” Proverbs 15:1

      Is it easy to live a life full of wisdom and rely on our Lord for guidance? No, it is not. But God has provided us with His Word to be a lamp to my feet and a light to my path. (Psalm 119:105)

      Many years ago, Pastor Joaquin taught us the importance of living a life pleasing to God. 

      “Walking out your Christianity isn’t a Sunday morning thing. It’s easy to be a Christian on Sunday, but who are you on Monday? Are you walking out what you’re speaking out? Our lives and our words are a reflection of who we really are and what we really believe.” (Pastor Joaquin Gonzalez)

      Kandi Gallaty wrote, “The Bible is God’s revelation of Himself and His truth, and it teaches us how to live for God and share His love with the world.” (The Bible in a Year)

      Beloved, no matter what challenges you may face, be encouraged that nothing we face or will encounter will catch God off guard. Our Shepherd is with us and has given us His Word to guide us through the darkest periods in our lives.

      But we must remember what He said on the Cross: IT IS FINISHED!

      If we live our lives from that standpoint, then walking out what He has worked in us will be far easier.

      Lord, Jesus, thank you for Your Word that has been a light that has guided me through the darkest periods in my life. Lord, like Solomon, I pray that you would give me a wise and discerning heart so I may continue to discern right from wrong and keep my eyes on the path you have established so I can run my race and bring you glory. In your name, I praise you and love you, amen!

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    10. In Your Presence

      “Let me hear of your unfailing love each morning, for I am trusting you.
      Show me where to walk, for I give myself to you.” Psalm 143:8 NLT


      Many mornings I lay awake, tempted to stay in bed, and have no desire to go through my “to-do list.” When this happens, I always feel the soft whispering of the Holy Spirit saying, “Celeste, you need to get up and spend time with me.” Truth be told, my entire day falls apart when I ignore this prompting.

      I have learned how important it is for me to begin my day in the arms of my Heavenly Father. He loves me so much that He knows what would happen if I don’t start my day in His presence.

      In Psalm 143:8, David urges us to start our day in the presence of our Lord rather than trying to complete our ‘to-do list. “Let me hear of your unfailing love each morning, for I trust you. Show me where to walk, for I give myself to you.” 

      It is wonderful to know that no matter what we do or do not accomplish, our Heavenly Father’s love for us is unfailing. We are loved not for what we do but for who He is. 

      So, what happens when we set aside time with our Lord Jesus and let Him saturate our hearts, mind, and soul with His love and lead our day? 

      In my journey, I have learned that the unexpected happens when I spend time with Jesus and surrender to Him. And even if my prayer is not answered immediately, I know He is by my side, and I can face each day with Jesus as I wait. 

      Lord, Jesus, help me to begin each day remembering how much You love me. Open my eyes and ears to see You and hear your voice amid my present circumstances. Lord, lead me through the right path. Help me not to focus on my current circumstances, but only on You because as I behold you, I become like you more and more each day. In Your name, amen!

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    11. Life is by Design and by Choice

      “For I know the plans I have for you,” says the Lord. “They are plans for good and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope.” Jeremiah 29:11 NLT

      We often ask ourselves, why am I going through a dark season? Where are you, Lord?

      Darkness is an overwhelming cloud that sneaks up when you least expect it. So how do we fight this overwhelming darkness that engulfs us and leaves us paralyzed with fear?

      The Scripture tells us that whenever King David was about to face a battle or fear tried to overpower him, he always withdrew and sought the Lord. David knew that God was faithful; therefore, he had hope in the One who loved him and fought his battles. The One who knew him; forgave his sins and saved him by grace. So, David came to God’s presence, laid all his burdens and fears at His feet, and worshiped the Lord with thanksgiving and a strong desire to know God better. (See Psalm 119)

      How do we handle fear in the face of uncertainties? Do we come to Jesus and lay all our fears and concerns at His feet with the knowledge that He has good plans for us and that no matter how grim our current circumstances may be, we can trust that God will cause all things to work together for our good? (See Romans 8:28) 

      Friends, I need to be honest with you. Before the pandemic, I would bring my questions and complaints to the Lord whenever anything didn’t go as I expected. “Lord, why? I don’t understand why my family and loved ones must struggle so much …” and the list went on and on.

      During the pandemic, I was forced to remain locked up where it was only God and me. My brother, who is also my beloved pastor, used to pray for God to find an isolated island where I could get to know Him more intimately and realize how deeply my Heavenly Father loved me. Well, Covid became that ‘isolated Island.’ 

      During this time, I started reading His Word and learning more about who He is and how much He loves me. The more time I spent with the Lord, the more I began to know Him; God is a faithful and wonderful Father who loved me despite my shortcomings and a lousy attitude. He never stopped loving me, even when I messed up. 

      Pastor Sharon once told us, “Nothing about your life or mine is random or coincidental. Life is by design (a plan to make something) and by choice.” Who designs? God. Who has the option to accept His plan? You and me. 

      In Jeremiah 29:11, God said, “For I know the plans I have for you,” says the LORD. “They are plans for good and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope.” Isn’t that amazing? God, our amazing Father, has good plans for you and me.

      Ann L. Knopp wrote in her book, “God gives you the strength and power to walk through each day and not just make it through but to conquer the day with Him fighting the battles for you or with you.” (Pursue Jesus; Obey Jesus; Live for Jesus.)

      If you are currently facing some uncertainties or are experiencing a dark season, be encouraged, friend; you are not alone. Jesus, our Savior, is with you. He will never leave you or forsake you. He is faithful, and He will see you through it.

      Lord Jesus, thank you for reminding us that nothing we are experiencing is random. You are aware of everything that we are facing. You will lead and carry us through Your Word and the guidance of the Holy Spirit. In Your name, amen! 

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    12. He Takes Good Care of Us

      Are not five sparrows sold for two pennies? And not one of them is forgotten before God. Why even the hairs of your head are all numbered. Fear not; you are of more value than many sparrows. Luke 12:6-7 ESV

      I took my grandchildren to a farm Saturday. The children had a great time feeding the animals. A sparrow suddenly flew by and began to pick up the leftovers my grandkids had dropped. At that precise moment, God reminded me of how awesome He is. The little sparrow had no one to feed him or his family, yet God knew he was hungry.

      In his song, Sparrows, Cory Asbury quotes, “The sparrow’s not worried about tomorrow or the troubles to come. The Lily’s not thinking about the seasons. The drought or the flood. A tree planted by the water isn’t fazed by the fire. A heart that’s planted in forgiveness doesn’t dwell in the past. So why should I be?”

      This is a powerful message! And a wonderful reminder of how much God cares for and loves us. The Lord Jesus reminds us in Luke 12:6-7 how valuable we are to our Heavenly Father, “Are not two sparrows sold for a penny? And not one of them will fall to the ground apart from your Father. But even the hairs of your head are all numbered. Fear not, therefore; you are of more value than many sparrows.”

      Why then do we worry about tomorrow or fear our storm when God loves us more than He loves the sparrows, the lily, or the trees? Why do I revisit the past if I’ve been forgiven?

      The past should only be remembered as a memory of who we were and who we are today because of His grace.

      Thank Lord for your Grace. Continue to remind me who I am and not who I was. Thank you, Father, for your love, for carrying me through every season in my life, and for taking care of me. You are a good father who knows my every need even before I ask. I’m blessed to be your daughter! In Jesus, name, amen!

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    13. When We Can’t, He can!

      Some men came carrying a paralyzed man on a sleeping mat. They tried to take him inside to Jesus, but they couldn’t reach him because of the crowd. So they went up to the roof and took off some tiles. Then they lowered the sick man on his mat down into the crowd, right in front of Jesus. Seeing their faith, Jesus said to the man, “Young man, your sins are forgiven.” Luke 5:18-20 NLT

      My family fell apart a year ago. Roots of unforgiveness and old wounds overtook my family. I couldn’t understand why my family couldn’t get together and discuss those ‘old wounds that have kept us in chains for decades.

      I knew it was not God’s will to live like our ancestors once lived. Most of them were lost and didn’t know Jesus. But we do.

      Having been bought and paid for by Jesus on the cross, we are a brand-new generation that God has created to live as His children.

      Why then couldn’t we live that way? So what is holding us back: our pride, unforgiveness, old wounds?

      One night, I cried out to the Lord and asked Him to show me why we couldn’t be the family He created us to be. What was stopping us?

      Then, the Lord whispered in the silence, “You can’t do anything, but I can!” The Lord reassured me that I needed to surrender this burden to Him and leave it in His hands. And believe with expectancy that He’s working in our family even when we cannot see it. He assured me that my family would one day become the family He created us to be.

      So, I took a step of faith and began thanking Him daily for the work He was doing in my family. I got up early every morning for a year and thanked Him for his work in my family. Although I didn’t see any change, I believed in my Father’s promise.

      One day as I was reading Luke chapter 5, the Lord reminded me about the story of the paralyzed man. His companions believed that if they brought their friend to Jesus, He would heal him. So, they formed a plan to get their friends to Jesus no matter what.

      When the friends arrived where Jesus was staying, it was already too late. The house was packed. But they didn’t give up. They had an idea; they decided to remove some tiles from the roof and lower their friend through the hole. It was dangerous, but they could only see their friend’s need for healing.

      When Jesus saw their faith, he was moved with compassion. Jesus not only healed the paralytic, but He also forgave his sins. Of course, the friends wanted Jesus to heal their friend. But Jesus didn’t settle for simply healing the body; He tried to recover the paralyzed man’s soul. The faith of these men was so strong that it touched Jesus to go beyond healing and straight to the cross.

      The Lord showed me that all I have to do is to stand in the gap for my family and hope (wait with expectancy) for what He will do. When my strength faded, and I lost hope, the Lord placed a group of women in my Compel Critique group to stand in the gap for my family and myself. Just like Aaron held Moses’ hands when he grew tired, these women of faith held my hands and did not let me give up.

      When I woke up, I thanked the Lord for His love, faithfulness, and promise to restore my family. But, as I was praying, a peace that surpassed all understanding surrounded me, and as I stood in silence, I heard, “I’m working behind this storm. It will soon be over. So, keep believing because when you can’t, I can.”

       Friends, we sometimes feel discouraged and want to give up, but let me encourage you that God is always present in our lives. Even before we ask, He knows what we need. So don’t give up. Instead, hold on to your hope.

      Father, thank you for showing me a glimpse of your promise. Thank you for showing me that my family will become who you created us to be one day. Help me, Lord, to keep my eyes on you, not on my circumstances. In Jesus’ sweet name, amen!

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    14. Soaring Like Eagles

      Time seems to stand still in the “waiting room” of life. It is a place where life is put on hold. When I visit my doctor, I sometimes wait in his waiting room for what seems like hours, but when I check my watch, it’s only been 20 minutes. When we are in the waiting room of life, it seems as if time has come to a screeching halt. This is how it sometimes feels while we wait on the Lord.

      One of the most important exhortations of the Bible is the instruction to “wait on the Lord.” Even though God promises special blessings for those who wait, waiting is one of the most challenging exhortations of scripture. Why is it so difficult? Because, as a part of fallen humanity, we are so likely to take matters into our own hands and follow our plans. Yet, the Bible repeatedly instructs us to “wait on the Lord.”

      We don’t like to wait, and when we think of waiting, we are apt to respond with a pun: “Wait? That’s what caused the bridge to collapse!” But, of course, that was weight, not wait. But then, these two words, weight and wait, are not always unrelated because one of our needs in staying in the Lord is to cast the weighty burdens of life on Him.

      I once read an article from NLP Life that used eagles to illustrate how God gives us strength while we wait through trials. According to NLP Life, “Eagles know when a storm is approaching long before it breaks? The eagle will fly to a high spot and wait for the winds to come. When the storm hits, it sets its wings so that the wind will pick it up and lift it above the storm. While the storm rages below, the eagle is soaring above it. The eagle does not escape the battery; it simply uses the storm to lift it higher. It rises on the winds that bring the storm.”

      When the storms of life come upon us, we can rise above them by keeping our eyes on Jesus, knowing He will keep His promises. He’s the same yesterday, today, and forever. Whatever it may be, our current situation doesn’t have to overcome us; God promised not to leave or forsake us. (Deuteronomy 31:6) God will strengthen us while we wait. His love, mercy, and faithfulness will lift us above the dark clouds so we can ride the winds of the storm that bring sickness, tragedy, failure, and disappointment into our lives.

      Friends, I don’t know if you can relate, but I’ve faced many life storms that could have destroyed or made me stronger. I’ve experienced many storms, but I’ve learned to look for Jesus during them and to trust Him, knowing that He will not forsake me. Keeping my focus on Jesus and not my current circumstances have given me the strength to soar above the storms, just like the eagle. And friends, He will do the same for you in whatever storm you face. 

      Beloved, as we are waiting on God to strengthen us, let’s remember the words of the prophet Isaiah “But those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.” (Isaiah 40:31 NLT).

      Heavenly Father, thank you for reminding me that You are with me throughout my storms. Thank you for giving me your strength and not giving up on the many times I’ve crumbled and was tempted to give up. Thank you for your unconditional love and mercy. I am who I am today because of You, Father. In Jesus’ precious name, amen! 

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    15. Hope, A Place of Expectancy

      “Sovereign Lord, as you have promised, you may now dismiss your servant in peace. For my eyes have seen your salvation” Luke 2:29-30 NIV.

      Today I read Chapter 2 of Luke. In this chapter, Luke tells us of an older man named Simeon. This man was a righteous man who served the Lord at the temple and held on to a promise our Heavenly Father gave him. God promised that he would not die until he saw the salvation God had prepared for all the nations. (See Luke 2:25-32)

      The incredible thing about Simeon is that he wasn’t just a righteous, devout man, but he eagerly waited for the Messiah to come and rescue Israel. For Simeon, it wasn’t a question of “if” it would happen but “when.” Simeon had this kind of hope.

      According to Oxford Dictionary, hope is defined as “a feeling of expectation and desire for a certain thing to happen.”

      The Old Hebrew word “hope” is often translated as “wait.” What does this mean? It’s not wishful thinking with our fingers crossed. It means to have the confident expectation that something good is coming. But, since it hasn’t happened, we remain alert because hope pays attention. It may not happen right away, but it will happen. This was the hope that Simeon had. 

      When prompted by the Holy Spirit, Simeon went to the temple and saw the promised Messiah. (Luke 2:28-29)

      Today, I witnessed what happens when we place our hope in the Lord. Hope is a feeling of expectancy and desire for a sure thing to happen. The Lord brought to mind Simeon while I sat in the waiting room for the doctor to tell us if my husband was a candidate for surgery and when he could have the surgery. 

      The doctor assured my husband he was a candidate for surgery, but the hospital was booked through the end of the year. I saw the disappointment in my husband’s eyes. 

      I immediately turned to my Abba and said, “Father, I know you have good plans for my husband; and I know and believe with expectancy that this surgery will happen at your time. So therefore, I will wait with confidence, knowing it will happen.

      My husband was silent as we drove home. Then, exactly 45 minutes after we left the doctor’s office, we received a call from the surgeon telling us that there was an opening for September 6th. 

      My husband was speechless. He was at a loss for words. He didn’t know what happened, but I did. My Abba moved and opened the door. He opened a door that was closed. Why? Because I waited for God’s timing and believed that He would. 

      Friends, let me encourage you to hold on to your hope, your faith. God will show up and will exceed your expectations. 

      Father, thank you for reminding me today of the importance of living in hope and with the confidence that you never let us down when we wait on you. Teach us, Lord, to live like Simeon, who never doubted what you promised would happen in your time. In the precious name of Jesus’ amen!

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    16. The Power is not in the Prayer but in the One Who hears it.

      “If you can do anything for him, please have pity on us and help us.” Mark 9:22b NIV
       

      I can’t even begin to fathom this father’s suffering watching his son’s anguish and suffering since he was a young child. While other parents watch their children grow up and play with other children, this desperate father was trying to keep his son alive.

      According to Mark 9, this boy had been subjected to this evil spirit attempts to kill him by throwing him into fires and water since he was a young child. The father was likely exhausted and desperate for help. And what did he do? He cried out to Jesus in desperation. “If you can do something for him, please have pity on us and help us.”

      What a simple yet powerful prayer. This prayer didn’t begin with “Since…” but rather “If” (a tense that implies doubt).

      Perhaps this poor father thought his son’s situation was beyond Jesus’ reach. But, if Jesus could do something, his son would get better.

      But noticed how Jesus responded, “If I can? Everything is possible for one who believes.” Mark tells us that upon hearing Jesus’ words, the father replied, “I do believe; help me overcome my unbelief.” (Mark 9:23 NIV)

      Have you ever prayed such a desperate prayer like this? I have many times. But I have learned that God listens to all our prayers, especially those borne from our deepest sorrows.

      C.S. Lewis once said, “We must lay before Him what is in us, not what out to be in us.” Beloved, God doesn’t judge our prayers or expect us to have fancy and eloquent prayers. All He wants is for us to unveil our hearts to Him.

      The power is not in the prayer but in the One who listens.

      Beloved, God does not judge our prayers or demand that they be elaborate or eloquent. He only asks that we reveal our hearts to him. It’s not about our accomplishments or how many verses we memorize. It’s about the One spoken of in the Scriptures. 

      The power is not in the prayer but in the One who hears it.

      Heavenly Father, you know my heart, pain, and sorrows before I speak to you. Thank you for your unconditional love, mercy, and grace. When my heart is drowning with doubts and fear, help me remember that you are with me, carrying me through my storms. And help me overcome any doubts I may have. In Jesus’ name, amen!

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    17. Pouring New Wine into Old Wineskin

      Image by "Come and Reason Ministries"
      21 “No one sews a patch of unshrunk cloth on an old garment. Otherwise, the new piece will pull away from the old, making the tear worse. 22 And no one pours new wine into old wineskins. Otherwise, the wine will burst the skins, and both the wine and the wineskins will be ruined. No, they pour new wine into new wineskins.” Mark 2:21-22 NIV

      I remember when I first became a teacher. I would begin my day with prayers inviting the Lord to help me show everyone that He lived in me and through me. Then, I would end the prayer by asking the Lord to send His angels to guard and protect my students and me. I did this for years. My husband will remind me daily to make sure I show everyone through my actions that I am a Christian.

      Unfortunately, I was the only Christian teacher. Non-believers surrounded me. Although I tried to remain faithful, the influence of the outside world was overwhelming. Without realizing it, I was trying to be part of that ‘world’ thinking that I could change them, but I didn’t; the world was changing me instead,

      Although my prayers didn’t change, I slowly began to spend less time reading the Word. I began to change the way I spoke and dressed. My husband noticed it, but I didn’t.

      It was then that he reminded me of Jesus’ words in Mark 2:21-22, “

      “No one sews a patch of unshrunk cloth on an old garment. Otherwise, the new piece will pull away from the old, making the tear worse. And no one pours new wine into old wineskins. Otherwise, the wine will burst the skins, and both the wine and the wineskins will be ruined. No, they pour new wine into new wineskins.”

      I wish I could tell you that I learned this lesson “once and for all” without turning back, but I didn’t. The more I tried to show the world that Jesus lived in me, the harder it became. No one wanted to hang out with a Jesus follower. I was set aside. So, what did I do? I stopped showing who I was. The new wine that was placed in the old wineskin burst, just like Jesus said it would.

      Friends, no friendship or even romance, are worth our soul.  Repentance means a complete change. And change means purging (purification or cleansing- Oxford Dictionary) your heart of anything that can’t coexist (exist at the same time or in the same place) with the life Jesus has called us to live.

      You can’t put your new life (who you were created to be) into an old lifestyle. The inevitable (sure to happen; unavoidable) will occur. The new life will get lost as the old lifestyle; the world’s influence will drown who you were created to be.

      Beloved, I don’t know if you have ever experienced something similar, or perhaps you know someone, a believer who’s struggling to fit in this world as I was many years ago. But be encouraged; Jesus can and will give us the strength to take a stand and not compromise who we are. So let’s put our lives in Jesus’ hands and let us trust that He will do what He promised to do.

      Lord, thank you for your love, grace, and forgiveness. Continue to remind me who I am and who you created me to be. I was started on purpose and for a purpose. Set apart, not set aside. May my words and actions reflect who you are every moment.

      In Jesus’ precious name, amen!

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    18. God, do You Care?

      A furious squall came up, and the waves broke over the boat so that it was nearly swamped. Jesus was in the stern, sleeping on a cushion. The disciples woke him and said to him, “Teacher, don’t you care if we drown.” Mark 4:37-38

      Almost everyone has asked this question at some point in their lives. No one has ever gone through life without wrestling with this agonizing question, “Does God care?”

      Mark tells us in chapter 4, verses 35-41 that the disciples and Jesus were caught in a storm. As the winds howled and raged, the impatient and frightened disciples screamed with fear to Jesus, who was sleeping and resting from a full day of teaching and healing those in need.

      “Teacher, don’t you care that we are about to drown?”

      Jesus could have continued sleeping. He could have told them to be silent or ignored them. Even better, Jesus could have impatiently jumped up and angrily dismissed the storm. He could have pointed out their lack of faith, but he didn’t.  Jesus lovingly got up and said to the waves, “Quiet! Be still.”

      At this moment, Jesus provided the answer for the agonizing question of man, “Where is God when I’m hurting?”

      How often do we face a storm and wonder where God is? Is He listening?” Does He care that I’m hurting?

      Even when we are unable to see or hear Jesus, He is still speaking and healing. The problem is that we want Jesus to answer our prayers in our time. So, when the answer is delayed, we immediately become discouraged, panic, and lose hope.

      I don’t know about you, but I’ve been in that situation many times. But it is now that I have learned that God’s delay is not a “no” or that He isn’t listening; it simply means, “wait and don’t lose hope. Trust me, and I will exceed your expectations in due time.”

      Let me ask you a question, “How has Jesus shown that He cares for you in the storms of your life?

      Let us take a moment to reflect on the many times Jesus showed up and exceeded our expectations.

      Father, thank you for reminding me that even when I don’t get the answers to my prayers right away, it doesn’t mean that you’re not listening or caring; instead, you’re working behind the scenes preparing a way to exceed my expectations. Lord, Jesus, thank you for your love and grace. In your precious name, amen!

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    19. Someday I Will…

      “Don’t put it off; do it now! Don’t rest until you do.” Proverbs 6:4 NLT
       

      Someday… what a simple word to utter with painful consequences. Someday I will get to buy a house away from the city. Someday I will retire and travel with my husband. Someday, my children will understand why I had to work so many hours.

      The truth is someday may never come.

      Max Lucado once wrote, “Someday… the enemy of risky love is a snake whose tongue has mastered the talk of deception.”

       My dear friends, I used to live a life in which ‘someday’ became my best friend. So I used to put things off, thinking someday it would get done.

      The day my father died, my school was holding a parent-teacher conference that lasted until 8:00 PM. Although I was physically present for my students and parents, my heart was with my father. I kept telling myself that I would see him after work tomorrow. I had no idea those would be his final hours with us, and I would never see him again.

      Later that evening, my Daddy went home to be with the Lord. I wish I could tell you that I handled it as a God-fearing person. I didn’t. For years, I was racked by guilt and pain. I ran from God and everyone and caused a great deal of suffering for my husband and children. I thought ‘someday’ my heart would heal, and I would be able to make things better.

      But ‘someday’ never came, my husband died, and he was able to forgive me for all the suffering I had caused him, even though our marital relationship was irreparably damaged. It took several years, but I was able to repair the harm that I had caused my children.

      It was then that I learned this painful lesson, “Don’t put it off; do it now! Don’t rest until you do.”

       Friends, let me encourage you to do what you can today and not postpone it till tomorrow.

      Enjoy every moment and spend time with your family. Mend broken relationships; be there for your family and friends, and spend time with your Heavenly Father.

      Live the life that Jesus came to give you. “Seized opportunity renders joy. The neglected brings regret and produces a broken heart.” (Max Lucado)

      Let us live as though Jesus died today and will return tomorrow. Let us run our race with confidence that the Lord will one day greet us and say, “Well done, my good and faithful servant. You have been faithful in handling this small amount, so now I will give you many more responsibilities. Let’s celebrate together!” Matthew 25:21 NLT

      Someday, I will see my Daddy again.

      Father, thank you for your love and faithfulness. Lord, help me keep my eyes on you and run my race, knowing that one day I will see you face to face, and you will embrace me and welcome me home. In Jesus’ name, amen!

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    20. Where are you anchored?

      Image from Cornelius Bella, "The Message Bearer."
       
      Suddenly, a furious storm came up on the lake, so that the waves swept over the boat. But Jesus was sleeping. The disciples went and woke him, saying, “Lord, save us! We’re going to drown!” He replied, “You of little faith, why are you so afraid?” Then he got up and rebuked the winds and the waves, and it was completely calm. MATTHEW 8:24-26.

      The last few weeks have been very challenging. With the Lord’s guidance and my family’s support, I accompanied my mother to the Dominican Republic to visit her younger brother. You’re probably wondering, how is that challenging? My Mom has Alzheimer’s. She desired to return home. So, I took her on this trip, not knowing what to expect. Whenever I asked the Lord for his guidance, I got the same response, “Do you trust me?”

      To everyone’s surprise, my Mom had no problem. She came alive! It was a joy to see her so full of life. We did, however, encounter a storm. Upon our arrival, my heart couldn’t take it, and I collapsed at the airport. While all this was happening, I could only think of my Mom. I didn’t know where she was, and I was worried about her. The doctor at the airport assured me that my Mom was fine; they were more concerned about me. The Lord reminded me at that moment that He was the same yesterday, today, and forever. That I needed to remember who He was and to trust him.

      The Lord brought to my mind Matthew 8:24-27, “Suddenly, a furious storm came up on the lake, so the waves swept over the boat. But Jesus was sleeping. Then the disciples woke him, saying, “Lord, save us! We’re going to drown!” He replied, “You of little faith, why are you so afraid?” Then he got up and rebuked the winds and the waves, which were utterly calm. (NIV)

      At that moment, my heart rate began to slow down, and I could breathe again. The Lord Jesus reminded me that He has power over any storm. All I needed to do was trust and remain anchored in Him. Jesus displayed power over nature; disease and broken hearts were and still are a way Jesus reveals Himself to us and exemplifies faith, love, peace, and hope. 

      Max Lucado once said, “Stability in the storm comes not from seeking a new message, but from understanding an old one. The most reliable anchor points are not recent discoveries but are time-tested truths that have to heed their ground against the winds of change.” Wow, what a powerful reminder.

      Friends, when we anchor our lives to Jesus, no storm can overcome us; or destroy us. Jesus has the power to overcome any storm we may be facing. All He requires from us is to anchor ourselves to Him and trust Him.

      Lord, Jesus, thank you once again for pulling me out of my storm. I will remain anchored in you even when no storms are on the horizon. In Your name, amen!

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    21. God is working on our present circumstances

      But those who trust in the LORD will find new strength. They will soar high on wings like eagles. They will run and not grow weary. They will walk and not faint. Isaiah 40:31 NLT

      Why are we required to wait for God’s timing?

      My fiancé and I were engaged for a few years before we decided to get married. But, so often, my family and friends would ask me what we were waiting to get married. Just do it already. They often said you’d been a widow for years, and you’re not getting any younger.

      Somehow, I knew in my heart that God wanted us to wait. Why? Only God knew. However, there were times that I went to the Lord and tried to give Him a timeframe. “Lord, if you don’t open the doors by the end of the year, I’m not getting married. I’m too old for this.” That, my friends, was a big mistake. God doesn’t respond to demands. So I had to learn the hard way to trust God with my relationship and wait on Him.

      During the process of waiting, my relationship with the Lord grew deeper. I began to rely on Him for everything. God was not only preparing me for this journey. He was also working in my fiancé’s life, my family, and his family. Sometimes, we forget that God not only loves us and wants to give us what we need; He also loves those that are involved in our lives.

      This marriage was not only about me. My wedding was going to affect all of us. So, I needed to learn to be less selfish and respect and value everyone around me. I needed to trust God, knowing that he was working on the circumstances even though I couldn’t see it.

      We may want something that’s the will of God, but are we ready for God’s perspective? Are the circumstances ready? Do we have the right motives?

      Often what we desire in life; in our relationships involves other people, so acting on our behalf doesn’t mean God will do something that may hurt or affect other people.

      He acts on our behalf if it fits into his perfect plan in our lives. So we have to wait.

      Charles Stanley once said, “Our willingness to wait reveals our value on what we are waiting for.”

      Friends, I don’t know what circumstances you’re currently experiencing; maybe you’re waiting for a new job; or a big promotion; perhaps you’re waiting for your book to be published; for healing; to buy a new car or house; whatever circumstances you’re currently facing be encouraged, God is still on the throne, and He’s exactly where He’s supposed to be.

      God loves you and knows what you need. So, trust Him and wait for His perfect timing. He is working behind the scenes, and in His time, He will exceed your expectations.

      Father, thank you for your love, mercy, and patience. Thank you for reminding me how important it is for me to wait on you. Lord, help me to continue to keep my eyes on you and not be anxious, but to wait on You. For I know you have great plans for my family and me. And in Your timing, you will fulfill all your promises.

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    22. Spiritual Dehydration

      “No, O people, the Lord has told you what is good, and this is what he requires of you:
      to do what is right, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with your God. Micah 6:8 NLT

      What happens to our body when we don’t hydrate enough?

      According to Marian Moghaddam, D.O., a family medicine doctor with the Henry Ford Health, “Human beings are made up of about 80% water. Every organ, cell, and tissue in our bodies use it to function properly, so drinking enough water every day is important.” We are required to drink six to eight 8-ounces of water daily.”

      My cardiologist, neurologist, and urologist constantly tell me how vital it is for me to stay hydrated due to my heart condition, migraines, and kidney stones. If I don’t drink enough water, I experience migraines, shortness of breath, lightheadedness, dizziness, and my kidney begins to produce many kidney stones. My doctors are baffled as to why I subject my body to such hardships.

      But, to be honest, I don’t drink nearly as much water as my body demands. When my body begins sending signals that my body is dehydrated, I panic and start drinking. But, once I’m feeling better, I revert to my old habit of not drinking the water my body needs.

      The same is true with our souls. When we deprive our souls of Spiritual Water, our ‘dehydrated’ heart sends signals to alert us of a dryness deep inside our hearts. As a result, we may feel irritable for no apparent reason; fearful; hopeless; insecure; anxious; sleeplessness; guilty, and empty. I’ve been lol experiencing some of these symptoms for the last two weeks. I couldn’t explain why, but today, the Lord gave me an answer.

      Today, during my time with Jesus, the Holy Spirit guided me to read Micah 6:8, “What does the Lord require of you? Act justly, love mercy, and walk humbly with your God.” Then, I started praying and telling the Lord that all I ever wanted was to obey Him. The Lord showed me that I needed to continue flooding my heart with His Word, worship, prayers, and fellowship. At first, I didn’t understand what the Lord was trying to tell me. Lord, I thought, “I spend a lot of time reading the Scripture; listening to worship; praying. So what am I missing, Lord, Jesus?”

      But then, it dawned on me. Since I started watching my youngest grandson, I haven’t been able to spend much time with the Lord. As a result, I’ve been experiencing anxiety, fear, sleeplessness, and insecurity.

      So, tonight, when I got home, I showered, put on my air pods, and began to listen to Elevation Worship. Friends, there are no words to describe what I went through. My heart and my soul began to worship Jesus. I got completely lost. I felt as if Jesus lifted my spirit to Heaven. Wow, I could close my eyes and see my Lord, my God, the lover of my soul. All my worries, fears, and concerns disappeared. All I could think of was being with Jesus. If this is what Heaven is like, beloved, I can’t wait to go home and be my Lord Jesus for all eternity.

      Friends, we live in a world full of chaos and problems, a dry and exhausting place to live. That’s why it’s vital to flood our soul and spirit with God’s Word and prayers and worship the Lord who is worthy of all praises. When the presence of our Lord fills our souls and heart, all troubles, fears, and concerns disappear. He gives you the strength to fly like eagles and run and not be tired. “But those who wait for the LORD [who expect, look for, and hope in Him] Will gain new strength and renew their power; They will lift up their wings [and rise up close to God] like eagles [rising toward the sun]; They will run and not become weary, they will walk and not grow tired.” (Isaiah 40:31 Amplified Bible.

      So my sweet friends, let us stand together and wait for the Lord. Let Him fill you with the sweet aroma of His presence. Give your worries and—concerns to our Lord, the Father of Abraham, who always keeps all His promises.

      Lord Jesus, thank you for always knowing what I need best. Thank you for reminding me of the importance of spending quality time with you. Lord, I will not look at my circumstances but keep my eyes on you. Fill my soul and heart with your presence. You are all I need.

      In your name Lord Jesus, amen!

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    23. Fear Not

      Don’t be afraid, for I am with you. Don’t be discouraged, for I am your God.
      I will strengthen you and help you. I will hold you up with my victorious right hand.

      Lord, Jesus, thank you for never giving up on me. You were carrying me in the darkest periods in my life, comforting me, even when I couldn’t see you, Lord. But looking back, I can see how much you wanted to fill my empty and hopeless heart. So it was during these times when you were filling my empty cup. Because only when I was empty-open, afraid, worried, anxious, depressed, lost, and didn’t have the answers is when you were able to replenish my soul with your unconditional love.

      Only You, Lord, Jesus, can fill my empty spaces. Flood my heart and soul with your presence every moment as you have done so many times. Only in Your presence can I feel secure no matter what storm I’m facing. In Your presence, all my fears disappear. I’m no longer afraid because You are with me.

      “Don’t be afraid, for I am with you. Don’t be discouraged, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you. I will hold you up with my victorious right hand..” Isaiah 4110 NLT

      Lord, thank you for your love and faithfulness. Thank you for never leaving me or forsaking me. Not because I deserved it, but because You love me and always keep your promises. In your precious name Lord Jesus, amen!

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    24. Waiting On God- Part 3: God is working on our present circumstances

      “Since ancient times, no one has heard, no ear has perceived, no eye has seen any God besides you, who acts on behalf of those who wait for Him.” Isaiah 66:4 NIV

      Why are we required to wait for God’s timing?

      My fiancé and I were engaged for a few years before we decided to get married. But, so often, my family and friends would ask me what we were waiting to get married. Just do it already. They often said you’d been a widow for years, and you’re not getting any younger.

      Somehow, I knew in my heart that God wanted us to wait. Why? Only God knew. However, there were times that I went to the Lord and tried to give Him a timeframe. “Lord, if you don’t open the doors by the end of the year, I’m not getting married. I’m too old for this.” That, my friends, was a big mistake. God doesn’t respond to demands. So I had to learn the hard way to trust God with my relationship and wait on Him.

      During the process of waiting, my relationship with the Lord grew deeper. I began to rely on Him for everything. God was not only preparing me for this journey. He was also working in my fiancé’s life, my family, and his family. Sometimes, we forget that God not only loves us and wants to give us what we need; He also loves those that are involved in our lives.

      This marriage was not only about me. My wedding was going to affect all of us. So, I needed to learn to be less selfish and respect and value everyone around me. I needed to trust God, knowing that he was working on the circumstances even though I couldn’t see it.

      We may want something that’s the will of God, but are we ready for God’s perspective? Are the circumstances ready? Do we have the right motives?

      Often what we desire in life; in our relationships involves other people, so acting on our behalf doesn’t mean God will do something that may hurt or affect other people.

      He acts on our behalf if it fits into his perfect plan in our lives. So we have to wait.

      Charles Stanley once said, “Our willingness to wait reveals our value on what we are waiting for.”

      Friends, I don’t know what circumstances you’re currently experiencing; maybe you’re waiting for a new job; or a big promotion; perhaps you’re waiting for your book to be published; for healing; to buy a new car or house; whatever circumstances you’re currently facing be encouraged, God is still on the throne, and He’s exactly where He’s supposed to be.

      God loves you and knows what you need. So, trust Him and wait for His perfect timing. He is working behind the scenes, and in His time, He will exceed your expectations.

      Father, thank you for your love, mercy, and patience. Thank you for reminding me how important it is for me to wait on you. Lord, help me to continue to keep my eyes on you and not be anxious, but to wait on You. For I know you have great plans for my family and me. And in Your timing, you will fulfill all your promises.

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    25. Waiting On God- Part I: God Works On Our Behalf

      “Since ancient times no one has heard, no ear has perceived, no eye has seen any God besides you, who acts on behalf of those who wait for Him.” Isaiah 66:4 NIV

      Have you ever wondered why things we wish for don’t turn out to be the way we wanted or when we wanted them?

      I have learned that things don’t exactly work out the way I expected when I rush into things and don’t wait on the Lord. When I’m not willing to wait, my life turns into chaos.

      God doesn’t want us in spiritual debt. He wants to give us what we need. But only in His time. He knows everything about our lives, from beginning to end. He knows exactly where I am at this moment. God knows exactly what I need when I need it, and when I’m ready to receive it.

      Our unwillingness to wait on God gets us in trouble and brings us confusion. God’s way is the very best blessing for us.

      Isaiah 66:4 teaches us that God works on our behalf. He is a personal God who knows each one of us. He’s willing to become involved in every aspect of our life if we let him.

      He will bring good things for me and you in order to accomplish His purpose. I have met many people who have lived their lives and died ignorant of this truth.

      The Bible says that God predestined you and me; He knew us before we were born. “I knew you before I formed you in your mother’s womb. Before you were born, I set you apart and appointed you as my prophet to the nations.” Jeremiah 1:5 NLT.

      Since that moment, He worked on a plan to comfort us and transform us into the likeness of His Son, Jesus. Therefore, whatever God does in our lives will be for our good.

      When God acts on our behalf, He adds the things that would bless you and me; and removes those things that will harm us.

      “But they that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run and not be weary, and they shall walk, and not faint.” Isaiah 40:31 KJV

      As parents, when we act on behalf of our children or grandchildren, we are doing everything we can to ensure their well-being. They may not understand why we don’t allow them to do certain things, but one day they will realize that everything we do it’s for their good.

      The same is true for God, our Father. He gives and takes according to His perfect will and plans for our lives. So if He’s acting on our behalf, it means that whatever you and I may be facing, he will be there to guide us and protect us. He will always cause all things to work together for our good. Romans 8:28

      So, I’m going to wait on God because I know that no matter what I may be facing tomorrow, He’s right there with me and He has great plans for my life.

      Father, I know that at times I’m impatient and don’t want to wait. Teach me Lord, to wait on you and trust you even when I can’t understand what you’re doing. Remind me, Lord that you are always working on my behalf. In Jesus’ name, amen!

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    26. Persevering In The Waiting

      “If you are faithful with a few matters, he will set you over many.” Matthew 25:11

      Have you ever faced a storm and wondered if God has forgotten you? Would I ever get out of this storm?

      If so, you’re not alone. About four years ago, I faced a harrowing situation at work that changed my life. I was wrongly accused of misplacing senior dues. I didn’t know why I was going through this storm or trial. I couldn’t see how God was going to get me through it. I wanted to run out of the storm desperately. I didn’t want to go through the pain or the humiliation. I just wanted it gone.

      God, on the other hand, had different plans for me. So, I decided to surrender to my Heavenly Father and seek Jesus during my storm. God used this trial to draw me closer to Him and show me who He was and what He can do. I needed to learn that God never forgets about me; even in the darkest hour of my life, He still has a plan for me.

      I learned to see and trust Jesus during this trial (test), even though I couldn’t see or understand what He was doing.

      I discovered that God was actively involved in my life. He sees our needs of tomorrow and uses our circumstances to create the ‘test” (to take a keen look at, to look, to choose. The Hebrew-Greek Word Study Bible Edit by Spiros Zodhiates.)

      God can cause all things to work together for our good. (Romans 8:28)

      Is it possible for Him to turn something good out of my mess? Yes, He can! God is the potter, and we are the clay. He is the Gardener, and we are the branches. He is the Shepherd, and we are the sheep. He is the teacher, and we are the students.

      I needed to put my faith in His abilities and trust that He would bring something good out of my mess. And He did. It didn’t happen overnight, but it did happen. 

      During this ordeal, God reminded me of Joseph. Joseph succeeded in the kitchen and dungeon before prevailing in the Egyptian court. He cared for the butler and baker before he cared for the nations. He excelled in the small things and was rewarded immensely.

      And that’s exactly what the Lord has done for me. He turned a harrowing situation in my life into a victory. He cleared my name, restored me, and turned my “mess” into His message. 

      Friends, how can we be like Joseph and Job and rely on God in the small things while waiting for Him to promote us to create more extraordinary things?  During the test, let us focus on maintaining a great attitude, serving others, and not complaining. Remember that no test or trial will last forever, and God will always fulfill His promise. He will always make something good out of our mess. God will turn it around. Jesus is the same today as He was yesterday!

      Father, thank you for your faithfulness. Thank you for turning my mess into Your message. Thank you for reminding me that You are an incredible Father who loves me and will never let me go.

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    27. It’s Okay to Let Go.

      “As far as the east is from the west, so far has he removed our transgressions from us.” Psalm 103:12

      Does your past keep you up at night?

      Have you ever had a fabulous day where everything seemed bright! You had a great day with the Lord, and you felt that nothing could cloud your day. 

      Suddenly a familiar song, an unexpected call, or a text triggers an old memory, a painful one.

      Immediately your mood changes. Your bright sunny day becomes gloomy. Your mind takes you to a painful time in your life. You feel as if you’ve stepped into a time machine and were transported to the past for a moment. 

      Frozen by pain, as tears roll down your face, you whisper, “Lord, Jesus, thank you for being with me even when I could not see you.”

      Friends, I don’t know if you have ever had this experience. This is a path I have walked many times before.

      The enemy of our souls hates to see us walking in victory. So, he would go to any length to make us doubt who we are.

      But let me assure you, friends, Jesus is not concerned with our past. Our sins have been forgiven. “As far as the east is from the west, our sins have been forgiven….” We have been forgiven because of the finished work of the Cross. The only interest Jesus has in our past is to turn “our mess” into His message. 

      Jesus is only concerned with our future, with each and every moment of our lives. Therefore, we have nothing to fear when we behold Him. So hold on to Him and let go of our past. He will never leave us nor forsake us. The enemy will try, but we already have the victory in Jesus. Remember, as Jesus is, so are we.

      Father, thank you for reminding me who I am in you once again. So I know that you are with me when doubts try to sneak up and overshadow me. You will never forsake me or leave me. Lord, give me your spiritual eyes to recognize the enemy’s tactics, to confuse me, and make me forget who you are in my life. You are my King, the lover of my soul, my friend; my God, my Lord, and my savior. Thank you, Lord, for constantly reminding me of who you are and who I am through Jesus.

      In Jesus’ name, amen!

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    28. He can’t be bargained with

      “And Jephthah made a vow to the Lord: “If you give the Ammonites into my hands, 31 whatever comes out of the door of my house to meet me when I return in triumph from the Ammonites will be the Lord’s, and I will sacrifice it as a burnt offering.” Judges 11:30-33 NIV

      Have you ever promised to do something for The Lord if He would grant your request? I have. At the end of 1998, after my father had three colon surgeries, the doctors told us that the cancer had spread and there was nothing they could do for him. Our family, including myself, was devastated by the news. So, because I didn’t know any better, I began to bargain with God. I

      promised God that if He could cure my father, I would do anything for Him. But unfortunately, the fear and pain of losing my beloved father were too much for me to bear.

      In my ignorance, I believed that God and I had agreed. But unfortunately, my father died three months later and went to be with the Lord.

      I felt so angry and betrayed by God that I turned away from Him. How can I trust a God who didn’t keep His promise? The truth is that God never promised me anything. It was I who was pleading with God to heal my father. Years later, I discovered the truth of who God was. He was a loving, caring, faithful Father who loved my father and me.

      But He was also God. God doesn’t respond to demands, and I can’t persuade Him to do what I want. All He ever wanted was my love, obedience, and a heart after His own heart. He

      wanted my loyalty and my undivided heart. I had no idea that my father had taken God’s place in my heart.

      It’s been twenty-three years since my father went home to be with the Lord. God never gave up on me throughout these years, even when I was angry and rebellious. Then, about six years ago, my Heavenly Father left the ninety-nine and went after the one. Finally, He brought His daughter back home to be with Him. My life and heart have changed dramatically since then. I was once dead, but now I’m alive.

      Friends, I don’t know if you have experienced a similar situation or may know someone who has. If so, be encouraged; God is an awesome God and an amazing Father. All He ever wanted was to love us. So, when things don’t seem to turn out the way we expect, we can trust our Heavenly Father, who loves us, and is always working behind the scenes, even when we can’t see it.

      Heavenly Father, thank you for never giving up on me or letting me go. Thank you for going after me and bringing me back to your arms where I belong. Thank you for forgiving all the wrong I have done and for not wanting to spend eternity without me. Lord Jesus, thank you for taking my place on that cross and dying for me even when I was a sinner. In your precious name, amen!

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    29. Looking Beyond The Storm

      Hope

      “Call to Me, and I will answer you and tell you great and unsearchable things you do not know.” Jeremiah 33:3 NIV

      In the Book of Jeremiah, chapters 30-33, Jeremiah assured the Jewish people that they wouldn’t be captive forever. God would free them to return to their land and restore their fortunes. He would repay their enemies for their wickedness. How amazing is our Heavenly Father? Even when we stray and get into a mess, He’s faithful and true to His Word. 

      Friends, I have learned that no matter what storm I may be facing, God will always come through. Our enemy, the devil, would never have the final say, and our testing won’t last forever. God will restore our health, our fortunes, and our relationships.

      Whatever the enemy plots against us will always fail. Max Lucado once said, “Intended evil becomes ultimate good.”This is true not only for the people of Israel but also for you and me.

      Every challenge or storm we face is not easy or random. God is not sometimes sovereign; He is not occasionally victorious; He does not occupy the throne one day and vacate it the next. “The Lord will not turn back until He fully accomplishes the purpose of His heart.” (Jeremiah 30:24 NIV)

      Whatever season you and I may find ourselves may confuse us, scare us and even puzzle us, but it will not bewilder God. He can and will use it for His purpose. He did it for me and will do it for you. God wants us to know that He loves us. We can call on Him, and He will answer..” (Jeremiah 33:3)

      When I face a storm, the Lord always reminds me of Joseph. Joseph was sent to prison. From a human viewpoint, the Egyptian jail was not the tragic conclusion of Joseph’s life. Satan thought that all God’s plans to use Joseph ended with the slamming of the jail door. The devil had Joseph just where he wanted him, so he thought. But let me let you in on a bit of secret, so did God. What Satan intended for evil, God used for testing. 

      The Bible tells us that testing is an external trial that purifies and prepares the heart. Just as fire refines precious metal from dross and impurities, a test purges the soul of the same.

      Beloved, are you going through a time of testing; or do you know anyone who is? Be encouraged; the tests are not here to stay. God will turn what the enemy meant to destroy us and cause it to work together for our good. (Romans 8:28) This is God’s promise for us.

      Father, thank you for your unfailing love. Thank you for never giving up on your children. Guide our hearts and help us to recall your goodness in a time of testing and the many times you showed up and rescued us. In Jesus’ name, amen!

       

       

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    30. We are Unique

      We are Unique

      Psalm 139:13-14 You alone created my inner being. You knitted me together inside my mother. I will give thanks to you because I have been so amazingly and miraculously made. Your works are miraculous, and my soul is fully aware of this.

      My husband loves to visit old mansions. He finds the uniqueness of its structure and architecture fascinating! Did you know that the design of each mansion or castle is unique, although it may appear similar to the viewers? But only the architecture and designer can determine how many bricks were laid, the type of bricks, or the structure. Yet, to us, everything seems the same.

      This principle applies to us as well. You and I were created unique and special. God is the potter and we are the clay. He made us all perfect having our own uniqueness. Some of us have blue eyes; some have brown eyes; some of us have special talents that other do not; and some of us are right-handed while others are left-handed. No matter what talents and gifts we have, you and I were made for a purpose. God, our creator, made each one of us unique. No one else has the same DNA, fingerprints, or features that you and I have.

      Psalm 139:13-14 says, “You alone created my inner being. You knitted me together inside my mother. I will give thanks to you because I have been so amazingly and miraculously made. Your works are miraculous, and my soul is fully aware of this.”

      Every single baby is a brand-new idea from the mind of our God. What does this mean? This means that you and I are not just another ‘brick in a construction site; a mason’s pile, or one of the dozen bolts in the mechanic’s drawer. You and I are unique! And if people don’t get us or don’t understand, they’re missing out. Our amazing Heavenly Father beautifully makes us. Each of us has unique gift to share with the world that no one else can. It will not be obtained if you do not bring it.  Our salvation was purchased by Jesus’ sacrifice. As we go through each day, Jesus continues to work in our lives, helping us become the person He created us to be. 

      Heavenly Father, thank you for taking your time and creating us unique. Lord, remind me each day, that no matter what goes on around me, I need to remember that you chose me before I was conceived in my mother’s womb. You created me on purpose and for a purpose. I can’t wait to see what you have installed for me. In Jesus’ name amen!

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    31. He is Faithful and true to His Promises

      He is Faithful and true to His Promises

      God is faithful in keeping His promises
      God is Faithful

      “Review the past for me; let us argue the matter together.” Isaiah 43:26 NIV

      My brother-in-law loves Psalms. Every morning before sunset, he goes to his prayer room and spends time with His Heavenly Father. He begins his day thanking the Lord for His love, goodness, and faithfulness. Then, he reminds the Lord of His promises. I couldn’t understand why we needed to remind our Father of His promises for years.

      But, today, the Lord reminded me how much He loves for His children to remind him of all his promises. 

      In Isaiah 43:26, the Lord said to Isaiah, “Review the past for me, let us argue the matter together.”

      God invites you and me to remind him of his promises. How do we do that? It’s simple. We need to spend time reading his Word and meditate on it. Then, when we know his Word, we can faithfully come to our Heavenly Father and say, “Lord, you said….”

      Here are some promises that have helped throughout my walk with Jesus.

      “Lord, you said you would walk me through the waters.” (Isaiah 43:2)

      “Lord, you said you would lead me through the valley.” (Psalm 23:4)

      “Lord, you said you would never leave me or forsake me.” (Hebrews 13:5)

      “Lord, you said if I believe in the Lord Jesus, my household (family) and I will be saved.” (Acts 16:31)

      “Lord, you said you would cause all things to work together for my good.” (Romans 8:28)

      When things appear to go wrong in my life and life storms overwhelm my soul, I remind my Father of all his promises. One promise I keep going back to is Roman 8:28.

      This promise reminds me of how the Lord took a very bad situation in my life and turned it around. He restored all the broken pieces and made me whole.

      When we pray in faith we touch our Heavenly Father’s heart and miracles will start to happen. You may not get your answers overnight but trust me when I tell you that it will come, and you will overcome.

      Friends, I don’t know what season you’re in right now-but be encouraged; our Heavenly Father wants us to remind Him of His promises. Find a promise that fits your current situation and build your prayers around it. Remind our Lord of His promises.

      Father, thank you for your Word, faithfulness, and unconditional love. Lord, thank you for being a constant in my life and faithful to your promises. In Jesus’ name, amen!

      , , ,

    32. Forgiveness is a Choice

      Forgiveness is a Choice
      silhouette of person standing beside cross during sunset
      Photo by Pixabay on Pexels.com

      Why do you think it is so hard for us to overlook offenses and forgive those who have wronged us?

       Overlooking offenses is one of the biggest problems we face in our family. For generations, my family has been dealing with “forgiving but not forgetting.” But, unfortunately, many relationships have been broken because of our lack of overlooking offenses. 

      When my parents got married, they chose to live with my grandmother. My Mom was an only child, so when she got married, my grandmother went to live with them. At that time, that seems to be a good idea. My parents worked, and my grandmother took care of us. However, as time went by, living with your in-laws became very difficult to the point that neither my father nor my grandmother overlooked offenses. Holding a grudge and unforgiveness ruled their lives for over 30 years.

      Growing up in this environment was very difficult. My father and my grandmother would coexist but would not speak to each other. 

      The Bible tells us in Proverbs 17:9, “Love prospers when a fault is forgiven, but dwelling on it separates close friends.” Proverbs 17:9 NLT

      Did you know that when a friend or a family member hurts us, we have a choice? 

      Proverbs 17:9 says that we should disregard the faults of others. Forgiving faults and overlooking offenses help build and restore friendships. We may be tempted, especially in an argument, to bring up all the mistakes the other person has made. Love, however, keeps our mouth shut-difficult though that may be. 

      So, what does this mean? I’ve learned throughout the years that bringing a personal attack about someone into an argument leads to more resentments and broken relationships. It’s essential to stay focused on the topic being discussed. As simple as this may sound, it’s tough to follow, especially during a heated argument. That would only add more fuel to the fire, not extinguish it.

      So, how are we supposed to handle unforgiveness? First, the Lord gave us His Word to help us become more like Jesus. Then, as we grow to be like Jesus, we will acquire God’s ability to overlook others to deepen our relationships with them.

      We can either accept their apology, forgive them, and keep the relationship, or we can hold a grudge, even if they are contrite, and end up more distant from them. 

      Friends, I don’t know if you can relate to this concept but be encouraged. As we become more like Jesus, we will live in peace and learn to overlook offenses. Remember, beloved, regardless of the number of times we have and will fall back into sin, Jesus’ sacrifice still covers us. He will not leave us in darkness. He will continue to do His good work in us. 

      Heavenly Father, thank you for your Word and Your unfailing love. Thank you for reminding me that I do have a choice to overlook an offense and live in peace with others. In Jesus’ precious name, Amen.

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    33. Faith is not Works, but Trust

      Faith is not Works, but Trust

      And Jesus said to him, “Go, your faith has made you well.” Immediately he regained his sight and began following Jesus along the road. Mark 10:52 NIV

      Have you ever asked yourself, “If only I had enough faith, God would listen to me? Have you ever had someone tell you-“You need to have more faith if you want God to move.”

      I often wondered if I had enough faith; perhaps God then would hear my prayers and heal my loved ones. 

      The truth is, faith has nothing to do with works. Faith entails more than merely believing in something. Faith is living in a way that shows our trust in God no matter what’s going on in our lives. Hebrews 11 highlights champions of the faith from the Old Testament who trusted and obeyed God in the face of difficult situations.

      In Mark 10, we meet a man named Bartimaeus who was born blind. Each day he would sit by the roadside to beg for money or food. When Bartimaeus hears that Jesus was passing by, he begins to shout, “Son of David, have mercy of me.” The crowd kept telling him to be quiet. But Bartimaeus shouted even louder. Finally, Jesus stopped and said, “What do you want me to do for you?” Bartimaeus replied, “Rabbi, I want to see.” Then Jesus, full of compassion and mercy, said, “Go, your faith has made you well.”

      Friends, faith isn’t work that qualifies you or me to receive a response from God. Faith is the spiritual force within us that takes hold of the answer God has already joyfully and willingly provided for us. When we believe God’s goodness, kindness, and faithfulness; when we believe He is for us; when we believe that Jesus’s sacrifice was all-sufficient; when we believe that our acceptance by God is based on Jesus’ perfect work on the cross, and not on our efforts then our faith reaches out and accesses what God has given us already. 

      Faith isn’t something we do to get God to move or change His mind. Instead, it is the calm, confident assurance that our Heavenly Father has already moved- that everything you and I could ever need has been given abundantly, supplied through Jesus’ finished work on the cross.

      I’m not sure where you are or what you may be going through right now but be encouraged beloved, we have an amazing Father who loves us and who has provided through Jesus’ finished work on the cross everything we will ever need. Even when we can’t see or feel it, God is working behind the scenes for our good. 

      Heavenly Father, thank you for your love and faithfulness. Thank you for reminding me today that you have given me everything I need through Jesus’ finished work on the cross. I believe in you, your goodness, and your unfailing love. I believe you are for me, and I believe what Your Word says about me. Lord Jesus, thank you for loving me so much that you were willing to die so that I would not spend eternity without you.

    34. Come to Me

      Come to Me

      Do you ever feel like life is getting too much to handle that you want to throw in the towel? I’ve been there many times, friends. But the good news is that Jesus has come to ease our burdens and carry our loads. All we need to do is “be still” and know that He will fulfill all His promises. So, all you need to do is talk to Him. 

      As if you were sitting in a coffee shop with a friend and talking about everything going on in your life. Maybe you want your friend to listen while sharing your feelings or pouring out your heart.

      Friends, Jesus is the perfect friend who wants to enjoy your company, who wants to know what makes you happy or sad. His invitation is simple, “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.” But how do we find rest in this crazy world? By trusting Jesus with all our cares and believing in our hearts that He is faithful and will always fulfill his promises. After all, He loved us so much that He was willing to die for you and me. Why? Because He didn’t want to spend eternity without you and me.

      Friends, join me in discovering the unique treasure of knowing Jesus and trusting in Him.

      “Breakfast With Jesus” is a website that encourages us to sit with Jesus and learn about who He is and who we are in Him.

      It’s as if you and I are entering a quiet place where we can be still before Him.

      Friends, Jesus is waiting for us with open arms. All we need to do is accept His invitation.

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