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Archive for the ‘Inspiration’ Category

Rise Above: Conquering Evil with Good

Don’t Let Evil Defeat You—Defeat Evil by Doing Good

In a world where negativity can scream louder than kindness, Romans 12:21 gives us a powerful reminder: “Don’t let evil defeat you. Defeat evil by doing good.” This verse isn’t just a call to be “nice”, it’s an invitation to live with strength, intentionality, and spiritual resilience.

Evil manifests in many forms: hurtful words, injustice, discouragement, pressure, temptation, or even the quiet battles within our own hearts. But God never intended for us to fight darkness with more darkness. Instead, He equips us with something far greater, goodness that comes from Him.

Doing good is not weakness. It’s spiritual warfare. Every act of kindness pushes back against despair. Every choice to forgive breaks a chain. Every moment of love plants a seed that outgrows bitterness. Goodness is God’s strategy for victory, and when we choose it, we partner with His power rather than our own.

So today, don’t let the world pull you down to its level. Rise above it. Shine anyway. Love anyway. Serve anyway. Because when you choose good, you don’t just survive, you overcome.

Keep going. Your goodness makes a difference.

God is at work within you

God at Work Within You: Trusting His Purpose in Every Season

Have you ever felt unsure about where you’re headed, or questioned if you have what it takes to fulfill what’s been placed on your heart? Those moments of doubt are familiar to all of us, but Philippians 2:13 offers an incredible reminder that we’re not walking this path alone.

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

This verse shifts the focus from our own ability to God’s power at work within us. It reminds us that the good desires, ideas, and actions stirring in our hearts are not just our own; they are divinely inspired. When we choose to follow God, He doesn’t simply hand us a purpose and walk away; He stays involved every step of the way, shaping our will and empowering our actions to align with His plan.

You’re Not Doing This Alone

So often, we feel the pressure to make everything happen by our own strength. But Philippians 2:13 assures us that God Himself is the one working behind the scenes, guiding our thoughts, adjusting our motives, and giving us the courage to move forward. Even when we feel stuck or uncertain, He is gently steering us toward His good purpose.

God’s work within us isn’t always loud or obvious. Sometimes it looks like patience when you’d rather rush, forgiveness when you’d rather hold on, or peace in the middle of what seems impossible. In those moments, His quiet power is transforming your heart and teaching you to trust Him more deeply.

Trust the Process

We all love quick results, but spiritual growth takes time. God’s work in you is a process, one that involves surrender, faith, and perseverance. Each season, even the hard ones, plays a part in fulfilling His greater plan for your life. What may feel like a delay is often preparation.

When you can’t see the full picture, rest in the truth that God can. He knows how to bring beauty out of uncertainty and purpose out of every challenge.

Final Thoughts

Philippians 2:13 isn’t just encouragement, it’s empowerment. It means that as long as you’re willing, God will do the rest. He will shape your desires, strengthen your actions, and ensure that your life aligns with His purpose.

You may not always understand how, but you can trust that He’s working. Right now. Right where you are.

Understanding how the Holy Spirit Works in the Life of a Believer


1. Gifts of the Spirit (Charismata)

Definition:
The gifts of the Spirit are special abilities, empowerments, or manifestations given by the Holy Spirit to believers for the building up of the church and the advancement of God’s kingdom.

Key Texts:

  • 1 Corinthians 12:4–11 – Paul lists gifts such as wisdom, knowledge, faith, healing, miracles, prophecy, discernment, tongues, and interpretation.
  • Romans 12:6–8 – Other gifts include serving, teaching, encouragement, giving, leadership, and mercy.
  • Ephesians 4:11–12 – Mentions apostles, prophets, evangelists, pastors, and teachers given for equipping the saints.

Purpose:

  • They are not for self-exaltation, but for the edification of others (1 Cor. 12:7).
  • They differ among believers—no one person has all gifts, and not everyone has the same gift.
  • They are temporary empowerments, granted as the Spirit wills, for ministry, service, and the church’s mission.

Summary: Gifts are about what you do through the Spirit to serve others.


2. Fruit of the Spirit (Karpos)

Definition:
The fruit of the Spirit refers to the character and virtues produced in a believer’s life as they walk in step with the Spirit.

Key Text:

  • Galatians 5:22–23 – Paul lists love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control.

Purpose:

  • Unlike gifts, the fruit is not about ability, but about character transformation.
  • It reflects the likeness of Christ formed in us over time (John 15:4–5).
  • The fruit is expected to grow in every believer’s life, not just some.

Summary: Fruit is about who you are in Christ, as the Spirit shapes your heart and conduct.


3. Key Differences at a Glance

AspectGifts of the SpiritFruit of the Spirit
FocusService & ministryCharacter & maturity
Given toVaries—distributed individually as the Spirit willsExpected in all believers
PurposeTo build up the church & witness to the worldTo reflect Christ & grow in holiness
NatureInstant empowermentGradual growth
ExampleGift of teaching, prophecy, healingLove, patience, self-control

In short:

  • Gifts show the power of the Spirit at work through us.
  • Fruit shows the presence of the Spirit at work within us.

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God wants you to know

WORDS AND WISDOM FROM THE ALMIGHTY

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Our “Prince of Peace”, “Mighty Protector”, “Shield of Faith.”

GOD IS ABLE

Scripture:
“Ah, Sovereign Lord, you have made the heavens and the earth by your great power and outstretched arm. Nothing is too hard for you.” — Jeremiah 32:17 (NIV)

No matter what challenges arise, trust that God is in control. His power is limitless, and His word is final. When situations seem impossible, remember that He has the ultimate authority over every circumstance. Stand firm in faith, knowing God can turn things around in His perfect timing.

“How can I reflect Jesus’ love right now?”

This phrase invites action, encouraging individuals to embody love, compassion, and kindness in their immediate actions, just as Jesus taught. It’s a call to be present and mindful of how one’s behavior impacts others.

Here’s a real-life example:

Scenario:
You’re in a grocery store, and the person in front of you is struggling to find enough money to pay for their items.

Action:
You gently offer to cover the remaining amount with a kind smile, asking nothing in return.

Reflection:
By stepping in with compassion and generosity, you reflect Jesus’s love through selfless care for someone in need.

It could also be simple, like showing patience when someone makes a mistake or offering a kind word to someone who looks downhearted.

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He is a Difference Maker

This speaks volumes about Christ’s transformative power and reminds everyone that life is full of purpose and grace with Jesus.

“Grateful Hands, Guided Hearts”

“Divine Partnership: Man and God in Harmony”

“Man and God: A Bond of Trust and Gratitude”

“Man and God is a symbol bond of strength, faith, and divine connection.”