Never Alone – Spiritual Journey from The Beginning To The End Of The Psalm ~ Psalm 13 ~

This is a splendid, impressive, awe-inspiring Psalm! It starts with a complaint, progressively takes you on an expedition of distress and at its conclusion you find hope & relief! What a marvelous spiritual journey! As David did quite often, know we too can earnestly cry out to the Lord at anytime! Here we can find comfort knowing that in even our darkest moments we can find respite and solace in the Lord! Whatever you may be going through you can rest assured that God is totally aware of whatsoever is happening! You are not alone! Although David complains at first he eventually launches into a powerful heartfelt prayer!

What is so beautiful about the Lord; you can just be who we are! If you are not in a good place ask Him to help you! We can’t fool God! He sees us from the inside out! We are ALL totally transparent to Him! Therefore it really is best for us to sincerely confess how we are feeling and what’s going down or happening in our life and then ask the Him to help us be where we need to be.

One of the fabulous wonders of life is; the ability to be able to grow spiritually is lifelong! Discovering who you are in the Lord can bring “Joy” for the journey! Joy is part of the Fruit of His Spirit! God is beyond able!

David goes through some tumultuous moments, days & years! No doubt there is a plethora of responsibilities and numerous challenges with him being the King, a father and “a man after God’s own heart!” I Samuel 13. He was the greatest king ever to rule over Israel! He was a man of great character and had steadfast trust and faith in the Lord! Yet it is clear with all that wisdom, and power he still needed the Lord! There were times of great distress and notable times he succumbed to his weaknesses… Yet he repented genuinely and pressed forward. His heartfelt confessions and accolades of praise inversely permeate throughout the duration of these Psalms!

Here he presents a question to the Lord! “How long?” We never know how long or short our test or trial will be but we can during the process; “Trust in the LORD with ALL our heart and lean not to your own understanding. In ALL your ways acknowledge Him and HE WILL make your path straight…” Proverbs 3. God will direct our path through whatever circumstance that presents itself! We however must position ourselves to hear Him and see clearly the narrow path. We can trust His Word!

There are many amazing and glorious stories of David’s plethora of experiences and turbulent times! However his good days outweigh them all! He was an exceptional king! Here in the Word of God we have a brilliant reliable record that the Lord brought him through each time! Therefore we can REJOICE knowing that this is the same God that we love and serve! Holy and Mighty is the LORD our GOD! He is the “GREAT I AM!” God truly is able!

~ PSALM 13~

Book of Praise Lesson Highlights

BOOK 1

“A Psalm of David.” The Prayer For God’s Answer – NOW!

Theme: Praying for relief from despair. We must continue to TRUST GOD even when He doesn’t answer us immediately.

Author: David

The 6th of seven “penitential” Psalms

Here David’s soul is in calamitous anguish! He vociferously cries out in the midst of his troubles! His heart is heavy laden and his mind is bothered! He heavily contemplates upon what will be the duration of his current dilemma that seems to be without end!

David desperately wants to hear from the Lord! He apparently is beginning to feel apprehensively anxious and impatient. So much so he asks the Lord if He has forgotten him? Here we get a glimpse of the close intimate relationship David has with the Lord! He candidly expresses the depth of his inner feelings! He is being beleaguered by his emotions! He wants some answers and is beginning to display much impatience… “How long, O LORD? Will you forget me forever? How long will You hide Your face from me?”

David is so beside himself that his mind is heavy with thoughts! His confidence is diminishing and he feels that his persecutors appear to be winning triumphantly over him? Everyday his heart is burdened more and he is now simply anxious and weighed down with worry! Many lessons here for us to learn!

The Word of God is so vitally important! In the New Testament in Philippians, the Apostle Paul tells us; “DO NOT be anxious about anything but in everything by prayer and petitions, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the PEACE of God which transcends understanding will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.” Philippians 4. When we are going through we must make a sincere effort to focus on the Lord and allow Him to lessen the load in His time. This of course can at times be easier said than done… Through Jesus Christ He has given us the gift of His Holy Spirit to be our Teacher & Comforter! When we remain focused on Him He can and will guard our hearts and minds! “How long must I wrestle with my thoughts and everyday have sorrow in my heart? How long will my enemy triumph over me?”

David feels so bad that he is pleading with the Lord to relieve him! The pain is so ghastly he fears death! The pressures of life are making Him feel so hopeless he is overcome with worry! He feels as though his enemies will overtake him and over power him and that they will soon celebrate his downfall. “Look on me and answer, O LORD my GOD. Give light to my eyes or I will sleep in death; my enemy will say; “I have overcome him,” and my foes will rejoice when I fall.”

As soon as David expresses his doubts and fears his load is lifted to the point he is now rejoicing! His trust and confidence in the Lord takes the forefront! How appropriate because the Lord time after time has brought him through. David now feels the Lord will save him! Here we too can rejoice in this life lesson because; “The Lord is Faithful!” He will deliver us and keep us as well! We in turn must keep our focus on Him and not the situation! We too must learn to trust Him! Like David we can be confident in the Lord!

Behind ever dark cloud there is light! This is why we must go to the Lord and invite Him into the “messiness” that life sometimes hurls upon us! He will make our path straight! Yet we must position ourselves humbly into His hands in order to hear Him! Although David commences this Psalm complaining and feeling forsaken he does not camp there very long! He does not allow himself to be pulled into the pit of endless depression!

Life can certainly be overwhelming at times! It can appear as though you are all alone and everyone and just about everything is coming against you. But when you have the Lord it is important to know that you are never alone! “This too shall pass!” David shows us in this Psalm that there can be an immediate turn around in your situation. Or if not’ while going through you can acquire more patience! This is why we need a Savior! To save us from the power of sin reigning in our lives and keep us connected to the Lord!

Sin separates us from the Lord and doubt wants to make you worry and weaken your connectedness! When this happens it is the perfect time to seek the Lord’s presence! Invite Him to come even closer and see how He will reveal Himself to you! He can make a way out of no way! At the same time He can cultivate His Fruit within you! This is why while going through we must learn to focus on the many bountiful blessings and promises in His Word! We don’t have to stay in the “How Longs?”The Love of God is powerful! “But I TRUST in your unfailing LOVE; my heart REJOICES in Your SALVATION.” Thank God for Jesus Christ and His precious Holy Spirit! The Lord truly is GOOD! HE IS AWESOME!

This Psalm concludes by saying: “I will sing to the LORD, for He has been GOOD TO ME!”

Yes, God Is Real

Sometimes it seems our world is trying very hard to erase God. Some people are becoming more and more bold, twisting his word, abandoning biblical teachings, and outright questioning the existance of God. But, when I reflect on his word, we shouldn’t be surprised for He has already told us this day was coming. Many times God is speaking but we’re not listening.

I was reflecting on the goodness of God today as I received news about a miraculous healing that occured with a family member. Just a reminder that doctors “practice”, but God “heals”. It’s mind boggling to me that people actually believe there is no creator. They acutally believe, or pretend to believe that creation happened without a creator. Even though they see in their own daily lives that nothing just happens! Then I’m reminded of the scripture that says “The fool says in his heart there is no God.” Psalm 14:1. As I reflect on the existence of God, I’m reminded of another scripture that states “The heavens declare the glory of God; the skies proclaim the work of his hands. Day after day they pour forth speech; night after night they reveal knowledge. They have no speech, they use no words; no sound is heard from them. Yet their voice goes out into all the earth, their words to the ends of the world.” Psalm 19: 1-4 Then, words from the song “How Great Thou Art” come to mind.

“Oh Lord My God, When I in awesome wonder, Consider all the world thy hands have made
I see the stars, I hear the rolling thunder, Thy power throughout, the universe displayed
Then sings my soul, my Saviour God to thee. How Great Thou Art. How Great Thou Art”

Well I am so thankful that I am not in the foolish group, for I firmy believe that God Is Real, that He exists, and that HE is a rewarder of those that diligently seek HIM. And this reminds me of another song I use to hear often in our church worship services. I believe we need to start singing it again. That song is “Yes, God Is Real”. Who wants to sing with me ?

“Yes God Is Real”

There are some things, I may not know
There are some places, That I can’t go
But I am sure, Of this one thing
Yes, God is Real, For I can feel
Him In my soul

Some folks may doubt, Some folks may scorn
All can desert, And leave me alone
But as for me, I’ll take God’s part
For God is real ,and I can feel
Him in my heart

I cannot tell, Just how you felt
When Jesus took , All your sins away
But since that day, Yes, since that hour
God has been real, For I can feel
His Holy Power

Yes, God Is Real. He’s real in my soul
Yes, God Is Real, For He has washed,
And made me whole
His love for me, It’s like pure gold
Yes God is Real, For I can feel
Him in MY soul

Or how about this one?

Jesus is Real To Me

Real
Real
Jesus is Real to Me
So many people doubt Him
But I can’t live without Him
That is why I love Him so
He’s so real to me

Yes, GOD IS REAL!

The Narrow Road

It is through God’s plan of salvation we are given the gift of eternal life. Once we accept Jesus Christ as our Savior we embark upon a spiritual journey. His precious Holy Spirit comes to reside within us. The Holy Spirit is there to comfort, protect, lead and guide us. To help us understand what the Word really means. His Word is there to be a “lamp unto our feet and a Light unto our path.” In Galatians 5 you will find the Fruit of His Spirit and the works of the flesh. This will help you to know the difference between, when you are walking in the Spirit or walking carnally in the flesh. This is also another reason why it is so very important to know the scriptures for yourself. God will never lead you to do anything contrary to His Word. His Word tells us every now and then you will find a true believer. The scriptures actually say “Enter through the narrow gate, for wide is the gate and broad is the road that leads to destruction, and many enter through it. But small is the gate and narrow the road that leads to life and only a few find it.”

God loves us so much that He allowed His only begotten Son to leave heaven and take upon Himself a body of flesh. Jesus conquered sin in the flesh for us. So we might have the gift of Salvation! He was born, lived a sinless life was crucified dead and buried. Then he arose with all power! We never become the power, yet we are allowed access. Jesus truly demonstrated His love to us by actually showing us what it is to travel on that narrow road. If you study the life of Jesus Christ you will find that He encountered many things. He was persecuted, mistreated, lied upon and maligned. He was called evil. He was betrayed, misunderstood and abandoned by the very ones He came to help. The scriptures are not just some mere stories written to amuse us. They are there to show us the way. To help us grow spiritually mature and encourage us on that narrow road travel.

The Bible is supposed to be the final authority for the child of God. It is supposed to be our road map for life. As His children we are His Church. The Church is His Bride. One must remain watchful and prayerful. Life will allow many thorns and thistles in order to derail the child of God. That narrow road often appears to take the form of a roller coaster? For some taking a detour onto wide road traveling becomes an alternate route. Regardless as to what is going on about us we must strive to sincerely live each day keeping in mind that Jesus is going to return for His Church. This also helps you to be prepared for whatever obstacles are put in your path. One must learn to lay aside the things that attempt to distract or derail your path. So much of the world has been allowed to creep into the Church. For many it is hard to tell the difference. You must know the Word for yourself in order to not be deceived. Remember the Word tells us that the wheat and the tares are growing together. On many occasions evil is called good and good is perceived as evil. In many cases the world and its way has really become the final authority. Learn to trust God!

Lord help us! Don’t be dismayed! Absolutely nothing gets by God! God knows who are His. Rest assured. When you truly know His Word, you would know that nothing or no one can change that! God’s Word is TRUE! Jesus stood on the Truth. God knows what has happened, is happening and what will happen! We can rely on the Truth! People have an amazing ability to twist the truth in order to suit their purpose. To take things out of context in order to make things appear and seem a certain way. Some people will believe anything and anybody. You never have to force yourself or God’s Word upon anyone. Just be patient. Learn to “be still and know.” You do not have to stoop to their level. Just know in the long run it will only backfire. When anyone tries to oppress you, you never have to be afraid especially when you know that Psalms 27 is true! “The Lord is my Light and my salvation, who shall I fear….” Truth erases doubt and will give you a sure footing. It takes the Truth to bring things to the Light and dispel lies. God does not operate in the dark. There is nothing hidden or uncovered to Him! “Wait on the Lord.” Study the life of Jesus. You will find that He was there in the very beginning and will be there through eternity. Many consorted together to derail Him. False witnesses were even hired to justify their case against Him. Simply so things could appear a certain way and cast doubt upon His credibility? To undermine His good intentions, perhaps with man but certainly not with God! Just to prove their case against Him. Jesus never sinned. He remained focused and faithful. We too must learn to keep our focus on God. You can rest assured when you know God knows the intentions of your heart. He knows everything. Romans tell us “Therefore there is no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus…” You do not have to walk after the flesh. Yes, we have all “sinned and fallen short of the glory of God.” But as you grow stronger spiritually we are to sin less. This is why we need a Savior. To help us stay on the right path. It is so important to know the Lord and His Word intimately. The Truth really can set you free! You can rely on the Truth! Not to just read it for the sake of reading. But to consistently study, embrace and digest its contents and seek your path forward. Get off that wide road traveling it leads to destruction. The Truth will untangle a multitude of opinions it will free you from a swamp of uncertainty. It is able to keep you on the right path. God really is able to keep you from falling!

The word scripture comes from the Greek word graphe, which means; what is written. The scriptures are truly the inspired Word of God. They were written to help us navigate through this maze of life. Many times Jesus said nothing. There were times He simply said “It is written.” God does not intend for us to be mislead. Narrow road traveling is possible. Difficult situations and suffering are a part of life. But so is His joy even in the midst of sorrows! He wants us to hide His word in our hearts. It is very important that you remain patient and be prayerful! Jesus wants us to be consistent and stable. Not to let how things appear sway you from what you know is right. In John 17 you will find another one of Jesus’ wonderfully recorded prayers; “I have given them your Word and the world has hated them, for they are not of the world any more than I am of the world. My prayer is not that you take them out of the world but that you protect them from the evil one. They are not of the world, even as I am not of it. Sanctify them by the TRUTH, your Word is TRUTH.” When you place your trust in Jesus you become sanctified. He will protect and keep you. You can rejoice and praise Him knowingHe has a plan for you as well as each one of His children.

You can depend on God’s Word. It is here to help us through this maze of life. To nourish, feed, water, protect and cleanse us. It is there to keep us on the path that leads to Him! But there are some things that you need to know and expect, to help you live your life seeking His purpose. It really is not about how things look to others. Know who you are and who you belong to! Always be ready to give and answer for the hope that lies within! What is important is what God knows! Do you really know what it means when you say Jesus is your Savior? It means that you are now a child of God. I must tell you, you should know as well, you also become target practice for a lot of spiritual warfare. It is true the saying that “the moment we admit life is difficult it becomes easier.” II Timothy 3 tells us, “In fact everyone who wants to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted, while evil men and imposters will go from bad to worse, deceiving and being deceived. But for you to continue in what you have learned and have become convinced of, because you know from who you have learned it, and how from infancy you have known the holy Scriptures, which are able to make you wise for salvation through faith in Christ Jesus.” For the child of God what makes it easier is knowing that the Lord is there 24/7. “He will never leave nor forsake you.” His Word is there to comfort you, help and sustain you, guide you and see you through it all. Whenever you become burdened you must learn to take responsibility and then shift your load to Him. God will never fail you! He promises to “supply all of our needs through Christ Jesus” You must read, know, continuously study, trust and allow His Holy Spirit to illuminate His Word for your path forward. The Word of God is our road map for narrow road travel. Life is a quest. Jesus is the only way to the Father.

Quite often when you find your self in a difficult situation if you are not prayerful your first response will be to respond carnally or in the flesh. To impulsively respond and seek to gratify self or to blame others rather than take your part of the responsibility. This is again when it is important to know; “That the Truth does set us free.” God always has a remedy. One just has to be open and willing to take heed to His way. Remember that narrow path I’ve been talking about? Always remember the Fruit of His Spirit is available. Remember God has a plan for your life. His promises are true! Nothing is too hard for God. Keep your focus! Mediate on the Lord’s Word. The WORD of God tells us to “Do not be anxious about anything but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” Philippians gives us additional insightful words to ponder when going through, “Finally my brothers, whatever is TRUE, whatever is NOBLE, whatever is RIGHT, whatever is PURE, whatever is LOVELY, whatever is ADMIRABLE, if anything is excellent or praiseworthy think about such things. Whatever you have earned or received or heard of Me, or seen of Me put into practice. And the God of peace will be with you.” God is awesome!

The GREATEST GIFT That Was Ever Given – His Name Is Jesus

Over 2,000 years ago God sent His Son into the world that we might be saved and not condemned. On the profession of our FAITH we are accepted into His Family and become children of God. The Child in the manger has been recognized as TheTraditional Christmas scene down through the ages. It is much more than a tradition it is a True story! As you Celebrate CHRISTMAS with your family, friends and loved ones with your plethora of family Traditions; I would like to take a few minutes to share “The Chronicle of Our Lord and Savior!”

“FOR unto us a CHILD is born, unto us a SON is given: and the government shall be upon HIS shoulder: and HIS name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace.” Isaiah 9

“Now in the sixth month the angel Gabriel was sent by God to a city of Galilee named Nazareth, to a virgin betrothed to a man whose name was Joseph, of the house of David. The virgin name was Mary. And having come in, the angel said to her, “Rejoice highly favored one, the Lord is with you; BLESSED are you among women!” But when she saw him, she was troubled at his saying, and considered what manner of greeting this was. Then the angel said to her. “Do not be afraid, Mary, for you have found favor with God. And behold you will conceive in your womb and bring forth a Son, and shall call His name JESUS. He will be great, and will be called the Son of the highest; and the Lord God will give Him the throne of His Father David. And He will reign over the house of Jacob FOREVER. And of His kingdom there will be no end…….

And it came to pass in those days that a decree went out from Caesar Augustus that all the world should be registered. This census first took place while Quirinius was governing Syria. So all went to be registered, everyone to his own city. Joseph also went up from Galilee, out of the city of Nazareth, into Judea, to the city of David. Which is called Bethlehem, because he was of the house and lineage of David, to registered with Mary his betrothed wife, who was with child. So it was, that while they were there, the days were completed for her to be delivered. And she brought forth her firstborn Son, and wrapped him in swaddling clothes, and laid Him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn.

Now there was in the same country shepherds out in the fields, keeping watch over their flock by night. And behold, and angel of the Lord said to them, “Do not be afraid, for behold, I bring you good tidings of GREAT JOY which will be to all people. For there is born to you this day in the city of David a Savior, who is CHRIST the LORD. And this will be the sign to you : You will find a Babe wrapped in swaddling cloths in a manger. And suddenly there was an angel a multitude of the heavenly host PRAISING GOD and saying; GLORY to God in the highest, And on earth PEACE , GOODWILL toward men!

So it was when the angels had gone away from them into heaven, that the shepherds said to one another, “Let us now go to Bethlehem and see this thing that has come to pass, which the Lord has made known to us. And they came with haste and found Mary and Joseph, and the Babe lying in a manger. Now when then they had seen Him, they made widely known the saying which was told them concerning the child. And all those who heard it marveled at those things which were told them by the shepherds. But Mary kept all these things and pondered them in her heart. Then the shepherds returned, glorifying and PRAISING GOD for ALL the things that they had heard and seen, as it was told to them.

And when eight days were completed for the circumcision of the Child, His name was called JESUS, the name given by the angel before He was conceived in the womb…

This is the greatest event that ever happened in the history of the world! So much so that a choir of Angels sang and the sky was lit with a brilliant STAR! “JESUS is the Bright and Morning Star” He wants to Light your heart and give you purpose and meaning in your life! CHRISTMAS IS WHEN WE CELEBRATE “HAPPY BIRTHDAY” TO JESUS! Jesus lived an amazing sinless life to conquer sin in the flesh for us! So we would not be condemned but saved. He was crucified a shameful death on the CROSS, died for us and then after three days in the grave HE arose victoriously with ALL POWER! When you accept Him into your heart you become God’s child and The COMFORTER His precious HOLY SPIRIT comes to live within your heart and your body becomes a Temple! You are then given the gift of ETERNAL LIFE!!! Jesus then becomes your Messiah, Savior and Lord! Jesus is the GREATEST GIFT that was ever given! JESUS IS THE REASON FOR THE SEASON! JESUS is the reason for every season. He is your reason for living in Him you will find the true meaning of life! Have a wonderfully, MARVELOUSLY Blessed MERRY CHRISTMAS and a JOYFULLY Blessed NEW YEAR!!! “GLORY TO GOD in the HIGHEST and on earth PEACE to men on whom HIS FAVOR rests….” (St. Luke }

JESUS Is The WAY! The TRUTH And The Life!

JESUS Is The WAY! The TRUTH And The Life!

Can I be certain that the Bible is true? How many ways is it to Heaven? Can I get to heaven just by being good? Do I have to believe in Jesus Christ? Do you know where you will spend eternity? What does it mean to say; The Lord is my Shepherd?

These are a few of the multitude of questions that many ask? Many are rather confused? I pray that after you read this you will better understand the answers to the above questions!

What is the point and why all the confusion? The confusion comes and many are bewildered because so few take the time to actually know the Word of God for themselves, nor proceed to develop an ongoing personal relationship with Him. They often take second hand information without considering the source and realizing it just might not be the Word? It is really important to know the Word of God for yourself!

What is also a bit alarming; is that there is so much of the Word that is being pushed aside and replaced by old wise fables and tales by Christians… Many opt to determine what is right for them simply based on how they feel and have been erroneously taught. Much misinformation is passed down and becomes accepted as truth… often reflecting an unfavorable picture of the Lord and His Word! What is popular or the latest trends determine how one lives rather than upon the Word of God…

Did you know that tradition can be anything you decide? There are many traditions that are first-rate and quite beneficial. But whenever the principle it teaches is contrary to the Word of God it should be abandoned. It is always GOOD to be Thankful to GOD! God never intended for Christianity to be reduced to a legalistic list of rules, to a tradition nor just another religion or something practiced on Sunday… Christianity was meant to be an everyday lifestyle. Jesus Christ came to show us the Way!

No wonder so many are lost! Rather than follow His directions, many opt to just do their own thing! Think about this for a minute. If you knew me well and trusted me and I gave you directions how to get somewhere and you are guaranteed to arrive there safely, would you follow them? Or would you say Hmm I’m not so sure I’ll ask someone else or I will find the way myself? You may eventually get there but in the meantime you have chosen the tedious path laden with anxiety and uncertainty rather than… Believe me! Do you really believe the Word?

Jesus Christ is the Son of God! As a matter of fact: “For GOD so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever BELIEVES in HIM shall not perish but have everlasting life. For GOD did not send His Son in the world to condemn the world. but that the world may be SAVED!” JOHN 3. He is door to Heaven and there is no other way to the Father!

Jesus has already prepared the Way! But in order to stay on or get on the right path we must follow His directions! “Do not let your hearts be troubled, TRUST in GOD! TRUST also in ME! In My Father’s house are many rooms, if it were not so, I would not have told you, I am going to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I WILL COME BACK and take you to be with ME that you may also be where I am…” John 14. Prepare: JESUS IS COMING BACK!

Let’s allow our spiritual minds to take the forefront and ask the Lord to open our spiritual ears and camp here a moment! Is your heart troubled? Have you made a bad decision? Has someone lied on you? Is your mind confused? Are you or a love one physically or mentally ill? Have you been given some bad news? Are you uncertain about your future?

Well I have some “GOOD NEWS!” Jesus has already prepared a Way! All His Word is true! It is okay to analyze and assess to a degree what is going on and take a look at what is happening in your life… But in order to see your way through or out of a situation clearly you must learn to TRUST JESUS!

No matter how much we plan; things can and will still happen that are beyond our control. Therefore you cannot put all your TRUST in something you see. Upon accepting Jesus Christ as our personal Savior, God has given us an inner compass to guide us! Regardless as to where you are, what is happening or what has happened your way out is through Him! The first place you must turn is to GOD! If you are a believer you have been given His Holy Spirit as a Comforter! Belief in Him and in HIS Word is supremely paramount for safe travel on the narrow road! “Seek first the Lord and HIS kingdom and HIS righteousness and ALL these things will be given to you as well…” Matthew 6. You must seek Him or begin to seek Him above all else!

If you do not know Him start now! If you have grown slack in your commitment to His will in your life recommit! Sincerely confess that you are a sinner and you are sorry for the sin in your life that separates you from Him. Let Him know now you want to turn your life over to Him. You want to draw closer to Him and invite Jesus into your heart! You want your life to be different and you want to learn more about Jesus Christ and His plan of salvation… You want to learn how to trust Him…

Why is that? If you are trusting in something you can see or figure out then it is not FAITH! “Now FAITH is being SURE of what we HOPE for and certain of what we do not see…” Hebrews 11. What is key here is being sure and certain! It is so important that you develop your very own personal and intimate relationship with the Lord! Know God so well that when anyone tells you something, you are able to discern or you can go to the Word and find out for yourself if it is of HIM!

The Greek word for faith is pistis! Faith is being confident in a reliable source!

There is so much spiritual warfare designed to get you off track on to the broad road where there are so many travelers that it appears it is the right direction. Have you ever noticed when there is a lot of traffic you must drive much more carefully! You must pay closer attention to where you are going. If you don’t you can easily miss your turn, or have an accident…

GOD is who He says He is!

When we confess Jesus Christ as our personal Savior we enter the spiritual realm of belief. Not just any belief but we actually profess we believe that Jesus Christ is the Son of God. This does not mean we merely join a spiritual social club and are then just indoctrinated to a particular denomination or non – denomination. It goes much deeper than that? Yes it is wise to pursue a place of worship where the Word of God is being taught! You need to fellowship with other Christians who are able to properly spiritually nourish you! It is important to know and understand that you have made a commitment to live God’s way! What are you saying…

The Greek Word for believe is pisteuo. Believe on the Lord Jesus and you will be saved. We are saved by Grace through FAITH not works!

When you become a Christian you embark on a spiritual journey that is a lifelong process of spiritual growth. This is just the beginning… Wherever you are in your life you now must begin to go forward in the Lord! You cannot undo anything that has transpired in your life! There is nothing that God is not aware of! Now you must get to know Him as your Creator and Sustainer of life on a personal level. You must become familiar with His voice! You must learn to “Be STILL and KNOW!” You are now to travel on the narrow road that is less traveled!

You have been given the gift of His Holy Spirit that resides within you!

Faith is an action word! You must step out on FAITH! In order to feel the impact of His Spirit’s presence you must sincerely ask to be filled daily by inviting Him into your day to day life. Throughout the day you can actually become cognizant and reconnect when you feel yourself shifting… You must take the necessary steps to develop an ongoing personal intimate relationship with Him.

Wherever you are God knows! Wherever you have been and whatever you have done God knows that too. GOD LOVES YOU! It is important to know that you have entered into a spiritual war zone. The world at large is hostile to believers! Once you become strong in the FAITH you threaten their system of embracing whatever is popular… Thinking outside of the box they have prepared for you is not welcomed… So prepare for opposition! But our weapons are not carnal! Think about Jesus, who was sinless and how they conspired against Him… He was not readily accepted by the very ones He came to help! His motives were always questioned and He was slandered, called everything but a child of God! They even used someone that was supposedly close to Him to betray Him… Jesus as well as His disciples endured harassment, ridicule and undue mistreatment. Yes, we too must go through some things…! So do not be surprised like Peter tells us; “In this greatly REJOICE, though now for a little while you may have to suffer grief in all kinds o trails – These have come so that your FAITH – of greater worth than gold, which perished even though refined by fire – may be proved GENUINE and may result in Praise, Glory, and Honor Jesus Christ when revealed.” I Peter 1.

No need to be afraid, but you must begin to be aware of what is going on. Pray for spiritual discernment! Peter shares with us how important it is to know what lies ahead! He knew you can expect persecution from just about anyone including at times your own family…”If the world hates you, you know that it hated Me before it hated you. If you were of the world, the world would love its own. Yet because you are not of the world, but I chose you out of the world, therefore the world hates you.” John 15. Is it becoming any clearer why you need to know the Word for yourself?