What is your Red Sea? Give God praise in the middle of your storm

Read: Exodus 14

Do not be afraid. Stand still, and see the salvation of the Lord; The Lord will fight for you, and you shall hold your peace.” Exodus 14:13-14

 

Good Morning!

Not trusting God's plan is easy when facing challenges. Despite our faith and fervent prayers, we can find ourselves teetering between trusting God and trusting ourselves. The beautiful thing about God, He can show up amid problems, even when we're doubtful, angry, or worried.

 

Despite knowing that God has provided an answer, do you find yourself going in the opposite direction of victory?  The waves of life keep pushing you further away, drowning you in an ever-increasing number of problems.

 

 Your plight is no different than the children of Israel, As they made their journey out of Egypt toward the Red Sea, it appeared to be no outlet from disaster. Instead of leading them by the shorter land route, God chose to guide them through the wilderness, with the Red Sea to one side and Pharaoh's army in pursuit (Exodus 13:17-20). How has your Red Sea entrapped you?

 

We tend to waver and point blame when things go array. Upon seeing the Red Sea and Pharaoh approaching, the Children of Israel were angry and complained to Moses. Now, more than ever, in your Red Sea, this is the time to praise and thank God instead of complaining.

 

 Expressing their anger towards Moses, the children blamed him for leading them to their deaths (Exodus 14:10-12). God asked Moses why he cried out to Him. God was aware of Moses' heart, even though he never articulated it. While in the Red Sea, you must audibly express your praises and desires to God from your heart. Sincerity is known by God He knows our hearts.

 

 Always, we should praise and thank God. In the middle of your Red Sea, you should not complain but praise God sincerely. Have trust and belief that The Lord will fight for you. Despite the fact you cannot see your victory, thank God in advance. Your Red Sea and Pharoh will continue to persevere but press forward when surrounded by the wilderness.

When we encounter the challenging Red Seas and realize that reaching the other side is beyond our control, we must understand that God is in control. This is the moment we should offer God our utmost praise. We got through the Red Sea not because of us, but because of the power, grace, and mercy of God. Things that we know we had no control over bring God the greatest glory.

 

 On your journey through the wilderness towards the Red Sea, whatever challenges you encounter, God has a plan for you. God will provide a way to cross the Red Sea. Do not lean on your understanding; trust in the Lord with all your heart. Let him be your sanctuary. He will never forsake you or leave you.

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Does Man Limit God?

Read: Psalm 78

Great is our Lord, and abundant in power; his understanding is beyond measure Psalm 147:5

 

Good Morning!

Despite our professed faith, love, and belief in the limitless capabilities of God, we still limit God. Usually, while we are praying, doubt, unbelief or we think we know what God can do puts limits on God and invades our thinking.  God’s power is limited when defined by man’s finite perspective. All things are possible with God.

 

Despite God's kindness, the Children of Israel rebelled against God. From displaying his great powers with plagues, their Exodus from Egypt, parting the Red Sea, providing food in the wilderness, and a beacon of light by day and night, the Children of Israel witnessed God's great power. Yet through it all, they turned their backs and tempted God and limited the Holy One. Yes, man can limit God.

 

Scripture contains numerous verses emphasizing the greatness of God. Remember and recite these passages in times of doubt or forgetfulness: Great is our Lord, abundant in power; his understanding is beyond measure (Psalm 147:5). Now to him who is able to do far more abundantly than all we ask or think, according to the power at work within us (Ephesians 3:20). My God will supply every need of yours according to his riches in glory in Christ Jesus (Philippians 4:19).

 

Limiting God occurs when we forget the marvelous things He has done (Psalm 78:11-17). Forgetting the prayers that God answered causes us to also overlook His Grace and Mercy, which, like our prayers, quickly fade into forgetfulness. Limiting God happens when we disobey Him. Doubt, worry, and unbelief limit God when we entertain them.

 

Let us be aware of how we limit God's blessings by what we do or do not do.  Let us pray Psalms 139:23-24, Search me, O God, and know my heart; Try me, and know my anxieties;  And see if there is any wicked way in me, And lead me in the way of everlasting.

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What are your dreams, goals, and aspirations? You are made in the image of God

Read: Job 33:15 – 18

 Write the vision; make it plain on tablets Habakkuk 2:2-3

                                                                                            

Good Morning!

 Having dreams, goals, and aspirations is something that we all have in common. 

Have you taken your dreams, goals, and aspirations to God in prayer for guidance and direction? I'm not saying there's anything wrong with your dreams, but seeking His guidance is important.

Divine dreams can occur. Dreams were used by God to communicate with both believers and nonbelievers. Joseph was used to interpret the dreams of nonbelievers. God directed the prophet Habakkuk to write down the vision and make it plain on tablets for all to read. 

I urge you, once again, to take your dreams, goals, and aspirations to God and discover his plans for your dreams.

As Christians, let us remember that one of our missions is to glorify the Lord in all our actions. Including God in your plans and allowing Him to order your steps is a great way to Glorify Him. 

Renew your mind's spirit (Eph. At 4:23), let the dreams be manifested by God.

By entrusting your dreams and work to the Lord, He will establish your plans (Prov. 16:3). God can finish whatever he placed in your heart. 

Putting your dreams into action by effectively setting goals. It is important to follow the example set by God in directing Habakkuk. This involves writing down and outlining the vision, making it clear and concise.

While manifesting your dream you will undoubtedly encounter roadblocks, setbacks, and stumbling blocks.  Remember, you can do all things through Christ who strengthens you (Phil. 4:13). If you want to accomplish the dream that God has given, you have to walk in your faith. As  you start this dream journey also remember to: 

1. Stay rooted in the word

2. Serve selflessly

3. Forgive constantly

4. Love unconditionally

5. walk through fear

6. Ignore naysayers

7. don't quit

Now is the time to pray and bring your dream to life. So, whatever you are dreaming, seize this opportunity by trusting God's word and direction. Write it down and make it plain. Walk by faith and not by sight.

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The worst part of being a giver No one ever asks if you are okay…

Read:  Matthew 8:1-27

Jesus, tired as he was from the journey, sat down by the well John 4:6

 

Good Morning!

Individuals who are often helping others are often taken for granted by society and family members. 

Community leaders, pastors, or even yourself can fulfill this role. These individuals continuously offer their time to advise and assist people in different ways. We often overlook the fact that these individuals are human and also experience fatigue. As a result, we tend to want or need more from them, not taking into account that they have limitations and need for rest. Because of their tireless efforts, we often assume everything is fine without considering if they are okay or not.

 

Throughout Jesus' ministry, there were moments when He displayed weariness, such as when He sat down by the well because He was weary from the journey (John 4:6). We often overlook his weariness, focusing instead on what he was doing at the well. 

In Matthew chapter 8, Jesus performs various miracles. He cleanses a leper (Matthew 8:1-4) and heals a Centurion's servant (Matthew 8:5-13). Jesus then visits Peter's house and heals Peter's sick mother-in-law (Matthew 8:14-15). Jesus performed additional healing throughout the entire evening, as recorded in Matthew 8:15-17. Jesus, upon seeing a large crowd approaching (Matthew 8:18, commanded that he needed to depart. After Jesus departed, they boarded a boat and he immediately fell asleep (Matthew 8:24).

 

A great storm arose while on the boat. Ignoring Jesus' exhaustion, the disciples, like countless others, sought his assistance without considering his well-being or questioning if he was tired or doing okay.

 

 I am trying to convey the point to both givers and receivers of blessings. Givers should take some time to rest just like Jesus. Just like Jesus, they too get tired and weary, so don't take for granted their continual giving, helping, and lack of complaints.

 

Take time to check on your pastors, leaders, or family caregivers. No one ever asks if you are okay, which is the worst part of being strong and giving.

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Gone Astray ; going astray does not mean you have to stay lost.

Read: Luke 15:11-32

The LORD is good to all; he has compassion on all he has made. Psalm 145:9

 

Good Morning!

Going astray does not mean you have to stay lost from God. Getting back on course is possible through humility.

The average person has strayed off course at some point in life. Deviation from a diet plan, substance abuse, or alcoholism could be the cause. Whatever caused you to stray, reconciliation is made possible by God's grace and mercy.

 

Today's lesson is based on the well-known parable of a hot-headed son's desire to depart from home and claim his inheritance. The father obliges and gives him his inheritance in advance.

 

 The son quickly realized that life is more challenging when alone. Life could be better if only I stayed within my father's protective confines. Upon the son's return, the father warmly welcomes him back into their home.

 

But what happens if there is a relapse? After a few years of regaining his stride with life, the Prodigal starts to slip back into self-pity, doubt, sin, or the constant reminder of past failures from others. This causes a relapse and the desire to stray once again from the comfort of the father's embrace, plunging back into the abyss. Often, many people stray not just once, twice, or three times, but even thousands of times.

 

Amidst the noise, and chaos of the Prodigal straying once again, the Father's reminder echoes: I am here for you, I'm on your team. Call me if you need help, and I will do what I can. Amidst the struggles, the Father never loses his cool, never berates the Prodigal, but is ever-present, ready and willing to help, with open arms awaiting.

 

The beautiful thing about Our Father in Heaven, He knows we are not perfect. To always call upon him is what He desires for us to do, knowing that we all have our weaknesses, shortcomings, and temptations. Confess our sins to Him and have a repentant spirit like David; He will forgive us. 1 John 1:9 assures us that if we acknowledge and confess our sins, God remains faithful and just. He forgives our sins and purifies us from all unrighteousness. When we deny or hide our transgressions, we hinder our ability to prosper. Conversely, if we confess and strive to obey God, He will show us mercy.

 

Even the best of us can go astray. Don't try to do it alone when that time comes. Repent of your sins and find your way back to the Father, just like the Prodigal Son. The Father will rejoice with open arms as you have now returned home.

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The troubles of the past, Don’t allow them to make you quit

Read: Psalms 73

 Cast your cares on the LORD and he will sustain you; he will never let the righteous be shaken. Psalm 55:22

 

Good Morning!

Wanting to quit can be a result of the troubles of the past.  It can also allow one's faith in God to be buried under self-pity. Questioning why good people suffer and the wicked go through life without trouble can lead to an out-of-control feeling of doubt toward God. When one wants to quit, how do they keep going?

 

In Psalms 73, the Psalmist shares his disdain for the suffering of good people. He is not alone in this sentiment, as many of us also wonder why those who mock heaven often seem to have abundance beyond their hearts' desires.

 

In Psalms 73, as you read, the Psalmist starts to look to God and sees life through the lens of being under the control of God. It is imperative that we do not give up but instead trust in God.

 

Oftentimes, our plans for life are altered. When feeling angry or confused, we must change our perspective and have faith in God. Keep pressing forward and don't give up; trust in God.

 

At the age of 90, renowned cellist Pablo Casals, continued to practice diligently every day. The reason for his actions was questioned. "I practice because I feel like I'm making some progress," was his response. He made similar comments at the ages of 67 and 80. Pablo continued playing until his death at 96. He remained persistent, and resolute in his efforts. He never gave up.

 

Maxcy Dean Filer, known as "Mr. Compton," is remembered for his unwavering dedication to social justice in California. But a fact unknown to many, Filer took the bar exam 47 times and failed each attempt. For thirty-seven years he continued until he passed it on the forty-eighth time. Many of us would have quit, given up, and even gotten angry with God. Never give up.

 

Let us start today by not worrying about the wicked or giving up due to life's changes. Continue to walk in faith and trust God's guidance and counsel, Draw near to God, trust Him completely, and persevere without ceasing. Never ever give up.

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Let go of the past, Whatever you focus on you strengthen

Read: James 4:11-12

Therefore let us not judge one another anymore, but rather resolve this, not to put a stumbling block or a cause to fall in our brother’s way. Romans 14:13

 

Good Morning!

Unkind words are frequently spoken toward others within our families, workplaces, and even in church settings. Criticism or slander can provoke anger, and contention, and cause individuals to cling to attacks.

 

Anger tied to the past is one of the most difficult things to let go of. The blame game, fueled by anger, breeds arguments and an unwillingness to forgive, ultimately destroying relationships.

 

 When new people join families, jobs, and churches, they often encounter a particular group of individuals who enjoy "filling them in" by speaking unkindly, criticizing, or slandering someone with whom they have a conflict.

 The Bible warns against speaking evil of our brother (James 4:3). In Romans 14:13, the word encourages us to refrain from judging each other and instead focus on resolving conflicts, rather than contributing to them.

 

 To resolve the cycle of attacks, when faced with such a situation, you can ask the person "Who hurt you?" Who disregarded you? "Who offended you?" No, it will not immediately resolve the issue. However, it has the power to prevent individuals from making critical remarks about others. also allowing the person to stop and think about their actions.

 

Whatever you focus on you strengthen. The words that come out of your mouth reflect what is in your heart. Take ownership of situations before blaming someone. Avoid engaging in arguments.

 

If faced with an argument, please maintain silence. Stop arguing and walk away. As you walk away offer a brief prayer to God.

 

Over time, we will encounter situations like these. Consciously, make an effort to let go of the past so that you can prevent the spread of similar issues like this.  The inability of not letting go of the past can be destructive, and it can harm relationships with God, the family, job, and church.

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Sharing God’s Blessings It’s God’s desire for us to share with others

Read: Proverbs 11:25-26 

 He who has pity on the poor lends to the Lord, And He will pay back what he has given. Proverbs 19:17

 

Good Morning!

Nothing is received, unless something is given. 

We should be open and willing to give whatever God blesses us with. What God has blessed us with, it is his desire for us to share not keep it all for ourselves.  

Blessing others is something we should do. God desires for us to always be ready to bless someone.

 

 Whoever brings blessings will be enriched, as Proverbs 11:25 reminds us. Sharing blessings with others is like watering and by doing so, it is as if we are watering ourselves. We should always be willing to share our time, talent, and treasures with others.

 

 Sharing our blessings with others is a way to both obey and worship God. Generosity to the poor leads to the Lord, and He will repay those who show kindness (Proverbs 19:17).

 

 God will bless us with a humble and generous spirit. The blessings we give are not only tangible things but also the manifestations of God's Grace and Mercy bestowed upon us. Showing more patience and understanding or sharing encouraging words with others can be a form of blessing others.

 

 Today, through word, action, or good deed, who can you bless? Approach any opportunity with humility and a readiness to act. Selflessly do it without expecting anything in return.

 With everything that we do, we should bless the Lord.

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Don't worry, Seek God first in all things

Read: Matthew 6:25-34

For the Gentiles run after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them. Matthew 6:32

 

Good Morning!

Jack spent a lifetime living a life of chaos. His dream of success, despite countless hours of trying to obtain "financial prosperity," eluded him. The calm of his younger years transformed into chaotic golden years.

 

 Warning the disciples, Jesus emphasized that they could not serve both God and money. It stands to reason, that by serving God and placing our complete trust in Him, we eliminate the need to worry about our daily needs.  "do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more than food, and the body more than clothes?" 

 

 Throughout history, the pursuit of happiness has often been associated with money and material ownership. Humankind inadvertently prioritizes material wealth over seeking God and the Kingdom first. Failing to achieve a goal often results in losing hope, which can trigger internal storms of depression, anger, and bitterness.

 In the failed pursuit of success, individuals often resort to drastic measures.

 

In Matthew 6:33, we are reminded by Scripture that by seeking God and His kingdom first, all things will be added to us. By seeking God first, Jesus wanted Christians to understand that God would supply their needs. Our daily needs should not be a cause for worry.  By seeking God first, and trusting in Him, he will provide.

 

Yes, we must work.  Our work sustains life. Seeking God first and trusting Him for all things is what God desires from us. Trust in God rather than relying on your own understanding.

 

 There is still hope when facing a crisis, whether it be financial, health, or job-related.  Keep your eyes and faith in Christ.  During the storm, remember to always seek God and the Kingdom first. 

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