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Posts tagged ‘christianity’

“Knowing God by His Names: Scripture, Meaning, and Prayer”

Elohim — God the Creator

Scripture:
Genesis 1:1 — “In the beginning God (Elohim) created the heaven and the earth.”

Prayer:
Elohim, Mighty Creator, You formed all things by Your power. I come to You knowing nothing is too difficult for You. Please help me in this situation and bring order, wisdom, and strength where I feel overwhelmed. Amen.

Yahweh (YHWH) — The Great I AM

Scripture:
Exodus 3:14–15 — “God said to Moses, ‘I AM WHO I AM.’ … This is My name forever.”

Prayer:
Yahweh, the eternal I AM, You are present with me right now. I need Your guidance and assurance. Walk with me, lead me, and be all that I lack today. I trust in who You are. Amen.

Jehovah — The Covenant-Keeping LORD

Scripture:
Psalm 83:18 — “That men may know that thou, whose name alone is JEHOVAH, art the most high over all the earth.” (KJV)

Prayer:
Jehovah, faithful and unchanging Lord, You keep every promise You have made. I ask for Your help according to Your word. Strengthen my faith and fulfill Your will in my life. Amen.

El Shaddai — God Almighty

Scripture:
Genesis 17:1 — “I am God Almighty (El Shaddai); walk before Me, and be blameless.”

Prayer:
El Shaddai, God Almighty, I place my weakness in Your powerful hands. Help me where I cannot help myself. Provide, protect, and sustain me according to Your mighty power. Amen.

El Roi — The God Who Sees Me

Scripture:
Genesis 16:13 — “You are the God who sees me.”

Prayer:
El Roi, You see me completely—my pain, my fear, and my need. Thank You that I am never hidden from You. Please help me, comfort me, and remind me that I am not alone. Amen.

Bible-Study Handout

The Names of God in Scripture

1. Elohim — God the Creator

Scripture: Genesis 1:1
Key Truth: God is powerful, intentional, and sovereign over all creation.
Reflection Question: Where do I need to trust God’s creative power in my life right now?

2. Yahweh (YHWH) — The Great I AM

Scripture: Exodus 3:14–15
Key Truth: God is eternal, unchanging, and personally present with His people.
Reflection Question: How does knowing God is “I AM” help me face today’s challenges?

3. Jehovah — The LORD

Scripture: Psalm 83:18 (KJV)
Key Truth: God is supreme over all the earth and faithful to His covenant.
Reflection Question: Which promise of God do I need to rely on more fully?

4. El Shaddai — God Almighty

Scripture: Genesis 17:1
Key Truth: God is all-powerful and completely sufficient for every need.
Reflection Question: What situation do I need to surrender to God’s almighty power?

5. El Roi — The God Who Sees Me

Scripture: Genesis 16:13
Key Truth: God sees, cares, and responds personally to human suffering.
Reflection Question: How does it change my prayers to know God sees me fully?

Closing Study Prayer

Lord, help me to know You not just by name, but by experience. Teach me to trust who You are. Amen.

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Being a Follower of the Word

The Biblical Meaning of Being a Follower of the Word

In Scripture, being a follower of the Word is far more than believing the Bible is true—it is allowing God’s Word to shape who you are, how you think, and how you live. The Word of God is not only written on pages; it is alive, active, and meant to lead us into a way of life that reflects God’s heart.

1. The Word Is a Person: Following Jesus Himself

Before the Bible was words in a book, the Word was a Person—Jesus Christ.
John 1:1 declares, “In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.”
To be a follower of the Word means to follow Jesus—His teachings, His example, His character, and His way of life.

Jesus didn’t just speak the Word; He embodied it.
So when we follow the Word, we aren’t just following rules—we are following a relationship.

2. The Word Leads, and We Walk Behind It

Psalm 119:105 says, “Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.”
A follower does not walk ahead of God, guessing their own direction. A follower stays close enough to the light to see the next step.

Being a follower of the Word means:

  • Letting Scripture guide decisions
  • Seeking God’s wisdom before acting
  • Trusting God’s timing
  • Choosing obedience over convenience

When we follow the Word, we walk the path God sets before us instead of carving out our own.

3. The Word Transforms the Heart

A follower is not just someone who reads the Word but someone who is changed by it.
Romans 12:2 reminds us not to conform to the world but to be transformed by the renewing of your mind.

A follower of the Word:

  • Allows truth to challenge old habits
  • Lets Scripture correct harmful attitudes
  • Embraces conviction as God’s loving guidance
  • Pursues holiness, not perfectionism

Following the Word means letting God’s truth purify our thoughts, motives, and desires.

4. The Word Produces Fruit

Jesus said, “If you remain in Me and My words remain in you… you will bear much fruit” (John 15:5).

Being a follower of the Word produces visible change in how we live.
The Word shapes us to walk in:

When the Word lives in us, it flows through us—into our relationships, decisions, work, and daily life.

5. The Word Protects and Equips Us

Ephesians 6:17 calls the Word “the sword of the Spirit.”
Followers of the Word are spiritually equipped. They don’t fight battles empty-handed—they fight with truth.

Following the Word means:

  • Recognizing lies and replacing them with Scripture
  • Standing firm during spiritual attacks
  • Clinging to God’s promises in times of fear or doubt

The Word becomes not just instruction but protection.

6. The Word Sends Us Out

Jesus never called disciples to simply hear. He called them to go.
Matthew 28:19 says, “Go and make disciples of all nations.”

A follower of the Word lives out Scripture in public, not just in private.

They:

  • Share God’s love
  • Encourage others with truth
  • Serve with compassion
  • Live in a way that points people to Jesus

The Word we follow becomes the Word we carry into the world.

Conclusion: A Follower of the Word Lives With Purpose

To be a follower of the Word means:

  • To follow Jesus
  • To let Scripture guide your steps
  • To allow God’s truth to shape your heart
  • To bear fruit that reflects His character
  • To stand strong through spiritual battles
  • To live out God’s mission every day

It’s not about perfection—it’s about direction.
It’s not about knowing every verse—it’s about obeying what you do know.
It’s not about a title—it’s about a transformed life.

When you follow the Word, you follow the One who is the Way, the Truth, and the Life.

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God Is Still Faithful to Us

In a world that shifts faster than we can catch our breath, it’s easy to wonder where God is in the middle of it all. Life brings unexpected storms, long waiting seasons, and moments that make us question everything we thought we understood. But here’s the truth that has never changed: God is still faithful to us. Not sometimes. Not only when we feel deserving. Not only when life is calm. Always.

From Genesis to Revelation, God’s faithfulness is the thread that weaves through every story, every promise, and every miracle. He was faithful to Abraham when the promise seemed impossible. He was faithful to Joseph through betrayal, false accusation, and imprisonment. He was faithful to David when he was overlooked. He was loyal to the disciples when they were afraid and uncertain. And that same God, unchanging and unwavering, is still faithful today.

His faithfulness isn’t based on our perfection; it’s rooted in His character. Scripture says, “If we are faithless, He remains faithful, for He cannot deny Himself” (2 Timothy 2:13). In other words, God doesn’t just do faithful things, He is faithful. It’s His nature. His identity. His promise sealed by eternity itself.

Maybe you’re walking through a season where you can’t see the full picture yet. Or the breakthrough hasn’t come. The healing hasn’t happened. Maybe the door hasn’t opened. But even here, even now, God is working behind the scenes, aligning, protecting, shaping, guiding, preparing, and sustaining you in ways you can’t yet see.

Faithfulness doesn’t always look like a quick rescue.
Sometimes it looks like strength to endure.
Sometimes it looks like peace in the middle.
Sometimes it looks like divine timing you didn’t expect.
Sometimes it looks like a “not yet” that leads to a greater “yes.”

But every step is covered by His unfailing love.

So hold on to this truth:
God has not forgotten you.
God has not abandoned you.
God has not changed His mind about you.

The same God who carried you before will carry you again.
The same God who opened doors before will open new ones.
The same God who lifted you out of past battles will lift you out of this one.

And when you look back, you’ll realize, He was faithful the whole time.

May this be your reminder today:
No matter where you are, what you’re facing, or how you feel, God is still faithful to us, yesterday, today, and forever.

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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.

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Awaken the Champion Within

7-Day Devotional: Awaken the Champion Within

Day 1: Called to Greatness

Scripture: “But you are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, His own special people…” — 1 Peter 2:9 (NKJV)
Devotional:
You are not ordinary. God handpicked you with purpose and potential that only you can fulfill. A champion knows who they are in Christ, chosen, set apart, and equipped. God didn’t call you to blend in but to stand out and shine for His glory.
Champion’s Action:
Write down three things that make you unique in God’s design. Thank Him for choosing you for “such a time as this.”

Day 2: Strength in the Struggle

Scripture: “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” — Philippians 4:13
Devotional:
Champions are not made in comfort; they are forged in challenge. Every battle you face is a training ground for your next victory. The same Spirit that raised Jesus from the dead empowers you to overcome weakness and fear.
Champion’s Action:
Pray for God’s strength in an area where you feel weak. Then take one small step forward in faith today.

Day 3: Renew Your Mind, Rise in Power

Scripture: “Be transformed by the renewing of your mind.” — Romans 12:2
Devotional:
You can’t live a victorious life with defeated thoughts. God wants to replace self-doubt with divine confidence. Champions think differently because their thoughts are anchored in God’s truth, not their circumstances.
Champion’s Action:
List one negative thought and replace it with a truth from God’s Word. Speak it aloud whenever doubt comes.

Day 4: Courage to Move Forward

Scripture: “Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous…for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.” — Joshua 1:9
Devotional:
Courage isn’t the absence of fear; it’s faith in motion. God commanded Joshua to step into the unknown because His presence was the guarantee of victory. The same is true for you. Champions move forward even when the path isn’t clear.
Champion’s Action:
Do something today that scares you but aligns with God’s purpose for your life. Trust Him to meet you there.

Day 5: Discipline Builds Dominion

Scripture: “Every athlete exercises self-control in all things. They do it to receive a perishable wreath, but we an imperishable.” — 1 Corinthians 9:25 (ESV)
Devotional:
A champion’s success is not luck; it’s consistency. God blesses discipline. Spiritual strength grows through prayer, Word study, and obedience. When you master yourself, you open the door for God to elevate you.
Champion’s Action:
Choose one spiritual habit (prayer, journaling, or fasting) to commit to daily this week. Watch your focus and strength grow.

Day 6: Purpose in the Process

Scripture: “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love Him, who have been called according to His purpose.” — Romans 8:28
Devotional:
Every delay, detour, and difficulty is part of your training. Champions don’t quit in the middle of the process—they trust the purpose. God is working behind the scenes to refine your character and reveal your calling.
Champion’s Action:
Reflect on a past struggle that grew you. Write a short prayer thanking God for how He used it for good.

Day 7: The Finish Line of Faith

Scripture: “I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.” — 2 Timothy 4:7
Devotional:
True champions finish strong. The goal isn’t just success; it’s faithfulness. Every act of obedience, every moment you kept believing, was shaping your eternal reward. Keep pressing, knowing Heaven is cheering you on.
Champion’s Action:
Spend time in worship today. Thank God for bringing you this far and declare that your best days are still ahead.

Devotional Theme Verse:
“For such a time as this…” — Esther 4:14
God is calling out the champion in you; not someday, but today.

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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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“A Kingdom Divided Cannot Stand: Understanding Luke 11:17–20”

Division has always been one of the greatest threats to strength and stability. Whether in nations, families, or even within our own hearts, disunity creates weakness that cannot endure. In Luke 11:17-20, Jesus confronts this truth head-on as He responds to those who accused Him of using Satan’s power to cast out demons. His words remind us that unity is essential and that true authority comes only from God. In this passage, we discover both a warning against division and a powerful assurance that God’s kingdom is greater than any force of darkness.

Outline For A Devotional Or A Mini-Sermon

1. Introduction

  • Set the stage: Jesus is accused of using Satan’s power to cast out demons.
  • Highlight the main theme: division destroys, but God’s power unites and overcomes.

2. A Warning Against Division (Luke 11:17)

  • “Every kingdom divided against itself is laid waste, and a divided household falls.”
  • Explain how division weakens nations, families, churches, and even individuals.
  • Application: where do we see division in our own lives or communities today?

3. It would be unreasonable for satan to be against himself (Luke 11:18–19)

  • Jesus shows the illogic: Satan would not fight against himself.
  • Point out how lies and accusations often come when the truth is uncomfortable.
  • Application: discern where false accusations or confusion come from in our spiritual battles.

4. The Finger of God (Luke 11:20)

  • The “finger of God” recalls Exodus 8:19, when Pharaoh’s magicians admitted God’s power.
  • This shows God’s kingdom had broken into the world through Jesus.
  • Application: the same power of God is still at work in our lives, bringing freedom and victory.

5. Living in God’s Kingdom Today

  • Division leads to destruction, but Christ calls us to unity in Him.
  • God’s power overcomes fear, doubt, and spiritual darkness.
  • Application: practical steps to invite God’s unity into family, faith, and daily life.

6. Conclusion & Reflection

The truth is: “A kingdom divided cannot stand, but the kingdom of God endures forever.”

Can you examine areas of division in your life and surrender them to Christ?

Pray

  • Prayer: A short prayer for unity and God’s power in our lives

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God’s Clear Instructions: 5 Biblical Examples

5 Biblical Examples

Study how God gave specific, detailed directions to His people and how obedience shaped His divine plan.

1. Noah and the Ark

Scripture: Genesis 6:14–16
Instruction Given:
God told Noah to build an ark with exact measurements, materials (gopher wood), and design (three decks, a window, and a door).

Reflection Questions:

  • Why do you think God was so specific with the ark’s design?
  • What can we learn about obedience from Noah’s response?

2. Moses and the Exodus

Scripture: Exodus 3:10
Instruction Given:
God called Moses to go to Pharaoh and lead the Israelites out of Egypt.

Reflection Questions:

  • What fears did Moses have about this task?
  • How does God equip us when He gives us hard instructions?

3. Joshua and the Fall of Jericho

Scripture: Joshua 6:3–5
Instruction Given:
March around Jericho once for six days, then seven times on the seventh day with trumpets before the walls would fall.

Reflection Questions:

  • Why might God have used such an unusual battle plan?
  • What does this teach us about trusting God’s process?

4. Elijah by the Brook

Scripture: 1 Kings 17:3–4
Instruction Given:
God told Elijah to hide in the Kerith Ravine, drink from the brook, and wait for ravens to feed him.

Reflection Questions:

  • How did God provide for Elijah in this hidden place?
  • What does this show us about God’s care in seasons of waiting?

5. Disciples Preparing the Passover

Scripture: Luke 22:8–12
Instruction Given:
Jesus told Peter and John where to go, whom to meet, and how to prepare the Passover meal.

Reflection Questions:

  • Why did Jesus give such detailed steps for the Passover?
  • What does this moment tell us about preparation in God’s timing?

Personal Application

  • Has God ever given you a clear instruction or nudge in your heart?
  • How can you become more attentive and obedient to His voice in your daily life?

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A Nation Under God

A Nation Under God

Few stories shine as brightly as the history of our great nation. Woven together with courage, sacrifice, and faith, the United States was founded on principles that echo the heart of freedom, life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.

From the first settlers who crossed oceans seeking religious liberty, to the brave hearts who stood on battlefields defending that liberty, we have been a people called to stand for truth and justice. Though our journey has not been perfect, we continue to press forward, leaning not on our own understanding, but on the faith that guided our forefathers.

Our strength is not found solely in our might or wealth, but in the moral compass that points us to God. When we honor Him, we flourish. When we walk in humility and justice, we shine as a beacon of hope to the world.

Today, as we face new challenges and uncertain tomorrows, may we remember who we are and whose we are. Let us recommit to being a nation under God, not just in name, but in heart. Let us live with integrity, pray with boldness, and serve with love. For only with His guidance and presence can we truly thrive.

Let us pray, A Prayer for Our Nation

Heavenly Father,

We thank You for the gift of this great land, a place of promise, opportunity, and freedom. You have blessed us beyond measure, and we humbly acknowledge that every good thing we have comes from Your hand.

Lord, we ask for Your guidance today. As a nation, we need Your wisdom in our leaders, Your peace in our communities, and Your healing in our hearts. Help us to turn from division and pride, and to walk instead in unity and humility. Restore what has been broken, renew what has been forgotten, and revive our hearts to seek You first.

Let Your presence be felt from the highest office to the smallest home. May Your truth guide our decisions, Your love shape our actions, and Your Spirit move mightily among us.

God, bless America, not for our own glory, but so that we might be a light to the world, a people known by our love, and a nation that honors You in all we do.

In Jesus’ name,
Amen.

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“Yes Lord — Because You Called Me”

Sometimes the only words I have are, “Yes, Lord.”

But those two words carry power. They are my agreement with God’s plan over my life, even when I don’t have it all figured out.

This is what saying “Yes Lord” really means to me:

I Can Say That

“Let the redeemed of the Lord say so…” Psalm 107:2
Because when God speaks, I repeat it. I speak life. I speak faith. I speak the truth.

I Can Do That

“I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” Philippians 4:13
Because it’s not about my strength, it’s about His power in me.

I Can Be That

“You are a chosen people, a royal priesthood…” 1 Peter 2:9
Because He has already called me that, worthy, set apart, anointed.

I Can Believe That

“All things are possible to the one who believes.” Mark 9:23
Because faith is how I access what God already prepared for me.

I Can Receive That

“Ask and it will be given to you…” Matthew 7:7
Because God is a giver. I just have to be willing to receive.

I Can See That

“We walk by faith, not by sight.” 2 Corinthians 5:7
Because spiritual vision shows me what’s coming, even when it’s not here yet.

I Can Learn That

“Teach me Your ways, Lord…” Psalm 86:11
Because I never stop growing in Him.

I Can Teach That

“Go and make disciples… teaching them…” Matthew 28:19-20
Because my journey, my story, my healing, it’s not just for me.

I Can Know That

“You will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.” John 8:32
Because in Him, there’s no confusion, only freedom and clarity.

You Called Me

“Before I formed you in the womb, I knew you…” Jeremiah 1:5
This is my why. My fuel. My confidence. He called me, so I said “Yes, Lord” to all of it.

Every “I can” is possible because He called me. When you feel unsure, remember this: You don’t have to be qualified by the world when you’ve been chosen by God.

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