Tag: faith

True Friends to Appreciate

by Ms. Rita's Minute

Aren’t you glad God created animals? I am. They are, and have been, more of a blessing than we may realize. In the Bible, we see animals created in the book of Genesis 1:20-25. Just before creating man to rule over them, God spoke the creatures of the sea into existence first, followed by the birds, and then various kinds of livestock and creatures that moved on the ground. It’s interesting God said, “Let the land produce living creatures….,” so I imagine an astonishing event of animals forming from the ground all over the earth before the eyes of the Lord. Magnificence!

Throughout the ages, animals have been a great help to us as we’ve used them for clothing, food, work, protection, and companionship. God cares about them and has assigned man to rule over them. In Genesis 1:26, “Then God said, “Let us make mankind in our image, in our likeness, so that they may rule over the fish in the sea and the birds in the sky, over the livestock and all the wild animals, and over all the creatures that move along the ground.”

However, mankind didn’t initially start out eating steak and lamb chops on the earth! Before the first couple sinned, their diet was not the meat of animals. As stated in Genesis 1:29-30: “Then God said, “I give you every seed-bearing plant on the face of the whole earth and every tree that has fruit with seed in it. They will be yours for food. And to all the beasts of the earth and all the birds in the sky and all the creatures that move along the ground—everything that has the breath of life in it—I give every green plant for food.” And it was so.”

Nevertheless, eventually, animals were used for clothing, food, and sacrifices to God. After the first man and woman sinned, they created their own plant attire to cover up before God provided His. Today, many drawings, pictures, and films depict the garments God created for them as animal skin. This could very well be the case.

Genesis 3:21 says, “The Lord God made garments of skin for Adam and his wife and clothed them.” It does not specifically say animal skin. So we may conclude it could have been either animal skin or some other kind of material or substance of God’s choosing. However, it does make great sense that perhaps the Lord performed the first sacrifice for sin by killing an animal (shedding blood) and making animal skins of clothing for the first couple.

In Genesis 4:3-4, we see Adam and Eve’s sons, Cain and Abel offering sacrifices to the Lord: “In the course of time Cain brought some of the fruits of the soil as an offering to the Lord. And Abel also brought an offering—fat portions from some of the firstborn of his flock.”  Afterward, we see the practice of animal sacrifice throughout the Old Testament.

Furthermore, in Genesis 8:20-21, God allows the departure of Noah, his family, and all the animals from the ark Noah had built, at the Lord’s instructions, to remain safe from the great flood that would kill every living being outside of it. Noah then proceeds to offer sacrifices to God: “Then Noah built an altar to the Lord and, taking some of all the clean animals and clean birds, he sacrificed burnt offerings on it. The Lord smelled the pleasing aroma and said in his heart: “Never again will I curse the ground because of humans, even though every inclination of the human heart is evil from childhood. And never again will I destroy all living creatures, as I have done.”

Later, in Genesis 9:3, after Noah’s sacrifices to God, with God’s blessing on Noah and his sons, He included: “Everything that lives and moves about will be food for you. Just as I gave you the green plants, I now give you everything.” Now God was allowing more to man’s diet than plants.

In any event, the Bible states God’s animals belong to Him. “The earth is the Lord’s, and everything in it …” (Psalm 24:1) Hence, God considers the well-being of animals and expects us to take care of them. “The righteous care for the needs of their animals, but the kindest acts of the wicked are cruel.” (Proverbs 12:10)

In Jonah 4:11, we see God’s thoughts on the care of animals in one city that had some serious problems. “And should I not have concern for the great city of Nineveh, in which there are more than a hundred and twenty thousand people who cannot tell their right hand from their left—and also many animals?” He didn’t have to mention animals and would not have done so if He didn’t value them.

In conclusion, I’m wondering: Do you have a pet? If so, how has that pet added value to your life? In my eyes, these adorable, majestic, funny, brave, sometimes fearful, and wild creatures are beautiful to behold. Currently, I don’t have one, but I appreciate God’s brilliant fashioning of them.

How We Overcome

by Ms. Rita's Minute

Do you know that you are an overcomer? As one who believes and abides in Jesus Christ as the Son of God, you are! You overcome the annoying trouble and evil of these last days because of the greater one who lives inside of you. That’s something to praise the Lord about! Give glory to God, though the weapons may form, they won’t prosper against us!

The Greek definition of overcome in Strong’s Concordance is to conquer, prevail–nikao/nike– “victory”, properly, conquer; to carry off the victory, come off victorious. Merriam-Webster’s definition: to get the better of: surmount; overwhelm; to gain the superiority: win.

The Lord is faithful to give us examples of this word–overcome–in the Bible, and I’ve highlighted a few that I find especially important to remember.

In Matthew 16:18, we find God’s message to his disciple, Peter, after he declares Jesus as the Messiah, the Son of the living God: “And I tell you that you are Peter, and on this rock, I will build my church, and the gates of Hades will not overcome it.” It shows the foundation upon whom the Lord would build His church and the power of its existence; that even Hades itself would not be able to defeat it.

Another occurrence is when Jesus speaks to his disciples in preparing them for events that were to come, relating to his departure from the earth, as He was soon to return to His Father in heaven: “I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” (John 16:33)

Jesus wanted to encourage His beloved people with the fact that, though he would be leaving, he’d send an Advocate, the Spirit of Truth, and though they’d experience grief, it would be turned to joy. Also, they would be able to ask the Father, in Jesus’ name, for whatever they desired and they would receive it.

Though the author never revealed himself by name, it is believed that the book of 1 John was written by the apostle John who wrote in 1 John 2:13, “I am writing to you, fathers, because you know him who is from the beginning. I am writing to you, young men, because you have overcome the evil one.” John, in this event, is describing his reasons for writing them and addresses loving other believers, not loving the world, or denying Jesus, and sin.

In 1 John 4:4, the apostle referred to the spirit of the antichrist which was coming and even then was already in the world. In this passage, John taught the believers how to recognize the Spirit of God and how to recognize false prophets. “You, dear children, are from God and have overcome them, because the one who is in you is greater than the one who is in the world.”

1 John 5:4-5, shows us that “.. everyone born of God overcomes the world. This is the victory that has overcome the world, even our faith. Who is it that overcomes the world? Only the one who believes that Jesus is the Son of God.” These verses are pretty clear about who overcomes the world. So if we’ve accepted Jesus as the Son of God and have become born again, acknowledging Him as our Lord, what does that make us?

In light of what God has already done by sacrificing His Son as the atonement for our sins, and having grafted us into His wonderful family, how do we practically overcome these evil and last days upon the earth? The answer may not appear as one would immediately think, as perhaps war and revenge might surface first. However, Romans 12:21 tells us “Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.” But how?

Romans 12: 9-20 gives us an interesting view of overcoming:

  • Love sincerely. 
  • Hate what is evil; cling to what is good. 
  • Be devoted to one another in love. 
  • Honor one another above yourselves. 
  • Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord. 
  • Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer. 
  • Share with the Lord’s people who are in need. Practice hospitality.
  • Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse. 
  • Rejoice with those who rejoice; mourn with those who mourn. 
  • Live in harmony with one another. 
  • Do not be proud, but be willing to associate with people of low position.
  • Do not be conceited.
  • Do not repay anyone evil for evil. 
  • Be careful to do what is right in the eyes of everyone. 
  • If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone. 
  • Do not take revenge, the Lord will repay.
  • If your enemy is hungry, feed him.
  • If your enemy is thirsty, give him something to drink.

I’m reminded of an event in the Old Testament that speaks of overcoming when feeling inadequate because of the perceived lack of the tools to succeed; an awesome revelation of God’s purpose, plan, and outcome to a young prophet, Jeremiah. “They will fight against you but will not overcome you, for I am with you and will rescue you,” declares the Lord.” (Jeremiah 1:19)

This was a portion of the Lord’s word to Jeremiah beginning with the Lord stating how before He had formed him in his mother’s womb, He knew him and set him apart. The Lord’s reply to Jeremiah’s concern of not knowing “how to speak” and being “too young” was that He had appointed him, told him of what was to come, to get ready, to say whatever he would give him to say, and not to be afraid. Surely, we all can note lessons from this word.

Further, we have the benefit of overcoming in Revelation 3:4-5:  “… They will walk with me, dressed in white, for they are worthy. The one who is victorious will, like them, be dressed in white. I will never blot out the name of that person from the book of life[sic], but will acknowledge that name before my Father and his angels.” Then, in Revelation 3:21: “To the one who is victorious, I will give the right to sit with me on my throne, just as I was victorious and sat down with my Father on his throne.”

Moreover, Revelation 12:10 speaks of “the accuser of our brothers and sisters, who accuses them before our God day and night, and has been hurled down.” Then Revelation 12:11 says, “They triumphed over him by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their testimony; they did not love their lives so much as to shrink from death.” Some Bible translations use the word “overcame” versus “triumphed”.

In any event, authentic believers are overcomers; which brings to mind the words of the Apostle Paul in Philippians 1:20-21: “I eagerly expect and hope that I will in no way be ashamed, but will have sufficient courage so that now as always Christ will be exalted in my body, whether by life or by death. For to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain.”

As we experience the events of our present and future times, let’s hold close to our hearts Hebrews 12:1-3, “Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. For the joy set before him he endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. Consider him who endured such opposition from sinners, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart.”

Photo: Associated Press and EDDIE PELLS AP National Writer

We’ve Got Blessings On Blessings!

by Ms. Rita's Minute

It’s absolutely fascinating what God has provided for those who love Him. I wonder how anyone would not want a relationship with Him. Sometimes, I just want to count our blessings.

So graciously, our Father has given us:

Jesus Christ–His Son, the atoning sacrifice for our sins, who is the Lamb of God, yet King of kings and Lord of lords. He is also wonderfully known as Immanuel (God with us), Prince of Peace, Savior, Our Good Shepherd, Redeemer, the Bread of Life, and Light of the World, among other names. He’s provided forgiveness for our sins, with the ability of repentance and sanctification, along with new mercies, daily. He’s our ever-present help in times of trouble.

The Holy Spirit–the power of Himself living within us to be witnesses for Christ, and to live a holy life before the Lord. He’s our Comforter, Counselor, Advocate, and Spirit of Truth among other blessings. He’s the presence of God within us; providing His fruit of love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. Also, He’s our security in knowing He’s resident inside of us, and sees, hears, and faithfully assists us toward His will for our lives. Furthermore, He’s made available His presence for experiencing the joys of protection, prayer, counsel, companionship, and abundant compassion and mercy.

Eternal Life–now and forever, as our spirits, and later our transformed bodies, live with Him for eternity, never to experience death again.

Bible Promises–the Old and New Testament scriptural guarantees and covenants as blessings and warnings to help us live successfully for Christ.

A Heavenly Home–the loving care of living luxuriously forever in the Kingdom of Heaven, a home of unimaginable pleasure, and total freedom from all evil, sickness, and pain, with God and other families of believers from the beginning of time.

A New Heaven and New Earth–a new planet, still called Earth, and a new dwelling called Heaven, that our God will create for His and our enjoyment. And we think the old are spectacular!

The Experience of Glorious Events–adventures of awesome glory that include the catching up of God’s people to live with Him, the return of Jesus to the earth to battle evil, and the Millennial Kingdom.

These are just a few blessings I’ve mentioned. Are there any others you can count?

How to Represent Christ

by Ms. Rita's Minute

Ever think about who or what we as individuals represent? Thankfully, the Bible tells us that believers are ambassadors for Christ, beloved children, a chosen race and royal priesthood, and God’s workmanship among other things. (2 Corinthians 5:20, Ephesians 5:1, 1 Peter 2:9, Ephesians 2:10).

However, sometimes, in our attempts to live as faithful Christians, we struggle with the battle between flesh and spirit, desiring to do what is good, but not carrying it out. Yet God is faithful to walk with us and counsel us as we represent Him effectively on the earth.

It’s important to note that the Bible tells us that 1 John 2 was written so that we will not sin, “but if anybody does sin, we have an advocate with the Father–Jesus Christ, the Righteous one. He is the atoning sacrifice for our sins, and not only for ours but also for the sins of the whole world.”

“We know that we have come to know him if we keep his commands. Whoever says, “I know him,” but does not do what he commands is a liar, and the truth is not in that person. But if anyone obeys his word, love for God is truly made complete in them. This is how we know we are in him: Whoever claims to live in him must live as Jesus did.“

So, as Christ’s representatives, loving is important, and understanding what it means to love is critical. The truth is seen in Christ and us: loving one another and living in the light, versus hating one another and living in darkness. Further, His Bible tells us the word of God lives in us and we have overcome the evil one! Now, our message as ambassadors or representatives of Christ is “Be reconciled to God.” (2 Corinthians 5:20/NIV).

“All this is from God, who reconciled us to himself through Christ and gave us the ministry of reconciliation: that God was reconciling the world to himself in Christ, not counting people’s sins against them. And he has committed to us the message of reconciliation.” (2 Corinthians 5:18-19/NIV)

In addition, where there’s no place like home, as representatives of Christ:

“Wives, submit to your husbands, as is fitting for those who belong to the Lord.” (Colossians 3:18/NLT)

“Husbands, love your wives and never treat them harshly.” (Colossians 3:19/NLT)

“Children, always obey your parents, for this pleases the Lord.” (Colossians 3:20/NLT)

“And whatever you do or say, do it as a representative of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks through him to God the Father.” (Colossians 3:17/NLT)

An Invalid’s Healing and Warning

by Ms. Rita's Minute

I love the fascinating story in John 5:1-13 where Jesus went to one of the Jewish festivals in Jerusalem and came upon a pool there called Bethesda. Many disabled people could be found lying there. They awaited movement in the water which took place after an angel would come down at certain times to stir it so that whoever first entered it was healed from whatever disease they had.

Can you imagine this pool where everyone, in large numbers, was blind, lame, or paralyzed? This was the pool of Bethesda.

Jesus encountered a man lying there who had been an invalid for 38 years and asked him if he wanted to get well. It’s interesting, that Jesus would ask the man that question as one would think, 1) Jesus would know if he did or not, and 2) who wouldn’t want to be healed of such a debilitating, long-term condition? Yet, of course, Jesus knew the answer, but perhaps wanted the man to express the desires of his heart verbally and be inspired with hope for change. The man explained to Jesus that he had no one to help him into the pool and that others would get in ahead of him when he was trying to get in.

Then Jesus told him to get up, pick up his mat and walk. Now I imagine a man who had been an invalid for 38 years might be quite shocked by Jesus’ instructions, nevertheless, what would he have to lose? The Bible tells us immediately the man was cured, picked up his mat, and walked. In one sentence from Jesus, the man was suddenly healed and able to do that which he had not been able to do for 38 years. His debilitating status was immediately canceled! What an astonishing blessing!

Unfortunately, since it was a Sabbath, Jewish leaders reminded the newly healed man that the law forbade him to carry his mat on that day and asked him who told him to pick up his mat and walk. This shows just how powerful the law was in the hearts of those leaders, to even forbid the healing of someone because of a certain religious day.

The former invalid didn’t know who healed him as Jesus had departed into the crowd, apparently before he could find out. Yet later, Jesus found him at the temple and had additional instructions for him: “See you are well again. Stop sinning or something worse may happen to you.”

This verse indicates that: 1) even though the former invalid had been incapacitated for a very long time, he wasn’t always an invalid and he had been made well again; 2) apparently, in this case, the man’s illness was caused by his sinful behavior; and 3) if he didn’t stop sinning (which indicates he could do so), something worse could have happened to him. I shudder to think of anything worse. At that point, the man went away and told the Jewish leaders it was Jesus who made him well.

The story continues later to show Jesus being persecuted by the Jewish leaders because of his activity on the Sabbath and Jesus’ response to the persecution.

We don’t have all the information on this healed man’s life before his sickness, but Jesus in this event has given us some insight into one of the things that could cause sickness in one’s body: Sin.

There are other instances of impairment mentioned in the Bible not caused by sin, one, specifically in John 9, where Jesus and his disciples encountered a blind man and his disciples asked who sinned, him or his parents, and Jesus replied, “Neither this man nor his parents sinned, “but this happened so that the works of God might be displayed in him.”

One thing we are made aware of is, per Jesus’ view, the healed invalid did not have to sin. Some hold the view that this is not possible as it very well may appear, yet Jesus clearly tells the man to stop whatever the sinful behavior was or something worse could happen to him. Would He tell anyone to do something he could not do? So, perhaps we can conclude that if Jesus tells us not to do something, it is certainly possible. Though most of us may feel like it isn’t.

The wonder of God’s power and compassion are not the only characteristics of his love I see in this story that relate to our own lives today, but also his warning. His warning is that our sin can bring about sickness, or worse, in our bodies. Sin might not always be the cause, though in this event it was.

Thankfully, we have the Bible and access to the Lord by prayer for help when we feel overwhelmed by temptation and need God’s strength and guidance to assist us in our times of need. Even Jesus was tempted and used the word of God in His resistance and was successful in not sinning, which involves behaving against God’s instructions.

We can be honest with God in prayer, as he already knows all about us. We can talk to Him about our weaknesses, temptations, or feelings, and He will still lovingly counsel us according to His scriptures. When we feel incapable of behaving as we should, we can ask for His wisdom, power, and deliverance.

We all fall short at times but have the tools to be successful. After all, in our current new covenant age, Romans 6:14 reminds us of our elevated position in Christ.

Of the many ways we may define grace, not being a slave to sin is one of them. God graciously warns us as He did the former invalid, later a newly healed man, from the pool of the disabled in Bethesda.

Submission, Grace, and Forgiveness for Authority

by Ms. Rita's Minute

Embracing 1 Peter 2 of the Bible can be a tough pill to swallow, yet it is forever necessary. Perhaps the hardest action within it is submitting to every human authority, not only the good and considerate, but those who are harsh. The Bible is very clear on this instruction in 1 Peter 2:13 and 18. Moreover, this behavior is deemed in the Bible as “for the Lord’s sake” and shows a “reverential fear” of God.

This passage of 1 Peter 2, starting at verse 11, urges us to abstain from sinful desires, and to live good lives so that people will see our good works that glorify God even though we might be accused of doing wrong. We’re told that in doing good, we silence the ignorant talk of foolish people. Also, it’s comforting to know that, the Bible tells us in 1 Peter 2:16 that we are to live as free people, but not to use that freedom to cover evil. Our aim should be to live fully submitted to God.

In addition, we’re encouraged to show “proper” respect for everyone. This entails: loving our family of believers, fearing or reverencing God, and honoring the “Emperor,” or for us today, the head of government. Further, we are shown in verse 20 that it is commendable before God if we suffer for doing good and endure it. And we all know that Christ modeled suffering well for us, that we might do the same.

Moreover, “He committed no sin and no deceit was found in His mouth.” (1 Peter 2:22) We are now encouraged to even love our enemies, bless them that curse us, do good to them that hate us, and pray for them which despitefully use and persecute us (Matthew 5:43–44).

Furthermore, the Bible reminds us that when people cast insults at Jesus, he didn’t retaliate, and when he suffered, he didn’t make threats. Who doesn’t know this to be a major temptation to threaten someone who is harassing you? It does indeed take a dying to self to act as the Lord did when encountering offenders or submitting to someone in authority who may be rude and prideful. Yet it may offer some solace to know the Bible tells us in Matthew 18:15-17 how to handle an offense among spiritual family:

““If your brother sins against you, go and tell him his fault, between you and him alone. If he listens to you, you have gained your brother. But if he does not listen, take one or two others along with you, that every charge may be established by the evidence of two or three witnesses. If he refuses to listen to them, tell it to the church. And if he refuses to listen even to the church, let him be to you as a Gentile and a tax collector.”

Well, we know how Jesus treated Gentiles and tax collectors–with grace and truth–remembering when, in one passage (Luke 3:12-13), we see Jesus instructing two tax collectors who came to be baptized, not to collect more money than was required. Also, in Matthew 9:9-13, we see Jesus choose Matthew, a tax collector seated at his booth, to follow Him as one in the first group of his disciples. So we still see the Lord offering a gracious chance for a relationship.

Further, we are reminded of God’s grace toward us in Romans 11:17, “And you Gentiles, who were branches from a wild olive tree, have been grafted in. So now you also receive the blessing God has promised Abraham and his children, sharing in the rich nourishment from the root of God’s special olive tree.”

Also, Romans 13 gives us a very clear view of the authorities that God has established and how we are to relate to them. We are told that there is no authority except that which God has established and those that exist were established by Him. As a result, if we rebel against them, we rebel against what God has instituted and bring consequences on ourselves. So, when all is said and done, we are given the freedom to decide if we will include God’s Holy Spirit and His principles in our choices.

In his mercy and wisdom, God allows us the ability to make choices in employment, homes (buildings, cities, states, countries), schools, spouses, churches, purchases, etc., and with those choices, the responsibility to submit to the authorities ruling those areas, thereby choosing our officials.

When there is error or negligence in those choices we’ve made, there is God-given wisdom available through the Bible, wise counsel, and prayer on how to rectify those situations. Sometimes the remedies may include separation or staying and making adjustments. Nevertheless, our actions should be in a spirit of honor and respect for God’s word in keeping the right attitudes and representing Him well. Though imperfect, we are not without hope or help.

Hence, all of these things assist us when contemplating the obedience required in submitting to those in authority over us. Thankfully, we can look to our Lord for help in carrying out his instructions remembering “He bore our sins in His body on the cross, so that we might die to sins and live for righteousness.” (1 Peter 2:24-25) We’ve been healed by his wounds so that though we were once going astray, we’ve now returned to the Shepherd and Overseer of our souls.

Now, submission is for all of us as Ephesians 5:21 tells us, “ Submit to one another out of reverence for Christ.” So, though it may be very difficult at times to follow Christ’s example of submission, we can do it. Let’s help each other through it!

Abraham and Sarah: Lessons in Growth, Faith and Victory

by Ms. Rita's Minute

In Genesis 11:27-25:11 of the Bible, we are privileged to see how Abraham and Sarah lived long and strong experiencing God’s blessings and struggles toward their victories in life. In their story, we see the results of their faith as well as those moments of their lack of faith.

Some bible facts about Abraham and Sarah: Abraham’s name was Abram before the Lord changed it. His father was Terah (who lived 205 years), and Abram had two brothers named Nahor and Haran (the father of Lot–Abram’s nephew).

Abram’s wife’s name was Sarai before the Lord changed it to Sarah. She was unable to conceive, so at that time, she had no children.

The Lord told Abram to leave his country and go to where He would show him. Abram at 75 years of age took his wife Sarai, his possessions, and his nephew Lot, and went, obeying the Lord. He went to Canaan, then to Bethel, the Negev, then on to Egypt.

Sarai was a very beautiful woman, so Abram asked Sarai to say she was his sister and not his wife so that his life would be saved and he’d be treated well by the Egyptians.

When the Egyptians saw Sarai, she was taken into Pharaoh’s palace and Abram got special treatment and added wealth because of her. Then God inflicted deadly diseases on Pharaoh and his household, after which he told Abram to take his wife and leave which he did with everything he had, along with Lot, his nephew.

Abram was very wealthy in livestock, silver, and gold. Lot, his nephew, was also wealthy and he and Abram could no longer stay together because of their great possessions, as the land could not support it. Quarreling arose between Abram’s and Lot’s herders, so they decided to separate.

Lot and his possessions got carried off by kings that invaded Sodom and Gomorrah as he had pitched his tents near Sodom which was experiencing war. Abram rescued Lot and brought him back along with his possessions.

Later God told Abram that he would give him an heir from his own flesh and blood. He also told him that he would have offspring numbered as the stars in the sky. The Bible tells us Abram believed the Lord and credited it to him as righteousness.

Since Sarai hadn’t given Abram any children, she asked Abram to sleep with her Egyptian slave to build a family through her. Abram agreed and slept with her slave, Hagar, and she had a son whom she named Ishmael (meaning God hears). Eventually, the slave’s pregnancy and the birth of Ishmael caused some problems in Abram’s household. Yet, God was still quite aware and active in graciously helping and an Angel of the Lord promised to multiply her descendants greatly. Abram was 86 years old when Hagar birthed Ishmael.

When Abram was 99 years old, the Lord appeared to him and established his covenant of circumcision promising to greatly increase his numbers and that he’d be the father of many nations. Also, at that time, the Lord changed his name from Abram to Abraham and his wife’s name from Sarai to Sarah, promising she would give Abraham a son, be the mother of nations, and that kings of people would come from her.

During a visit from three men including the Lord, Abraham was told that by that time of the next year, Sarah would have a son. The Bible describes Abraham and Sarah as “already very old” at this time. Sarah was listening and laughed, but out of fear denied she laughed. Yet, by the next year, Sarah gave birth to a baby boy named Isaac. She was 90 years old when Isaac was born and her husband, Abraham was 100.

I’ve only chosen to highlight a few facts about Abraham and Sarah’s exciting life of faith, so as not to go beyond the few minutes I have with you.

I find it remarkable that by faith, Abraham left his family and the land he knew without knowing where he was going. However, his faith did not allow him to have enough courage to tell the truth about Sarah being his wife and trusting God to keep them both safe. He risked her being sexually violated out of fear, but God was faithful and showed everyone who was boss. He would not have her harmed.

Moreover, for Sarah to attempt to speed up God’s promise of birthing a child by giving her slave to Abram, without any mention in the Bible of hesitation from him, but agreement, is somewhat disappointing, though understandable.

Nevertheless, before Sarah’s death at 127 years of age, and Abraham’s at 175, their lives were filled with faith lessons and victories from which our own faith is now inspired.

So what can we, God’s children, do or accept by faith today? What seems impossible or too difficult to do, or believe, that God has actually said would happen for us individually and corporately as Jesus’ body of believers? We should remember the lives of Abraham and Sarah, great lessons in faith, and God’s supernatural ability to bring His will to pass.

Knowing and Enjoying God’s Presence and Leadership

by Ms. Rita's Minute

Thinking about getting to know God, and experiencing His presence in our decision-making and relationships, the Bible has provided so many promises and stories that encourage us toward maturing in our walk with God.

In Exodus 33:13 Moses speaks with the Lord and says, “… Show me now Your way, that I may know You and that I may find grace in Your sight. …” The Lord replies in verse 14, “My Presence will go with you, and I will give you rest.” How wonderful is that? To experience God being with you, and giving you rest? An amazing privilege. And yet we have this blessing today via His Holy Spirit living inside of us. We only need to seek Him and we’ll find Him, when we seek Him with all our hearts, as stated in Jeremiah 29:13.

Regarding the lives of believers in Christ, John 10:10 tells us that “The thief comes only to steal, kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full..” Knowing this truth, we as believers in Christ should accept nothing less than what God says He wants for our lives. Hence, it should be our ambition to stay closely connected to Him; growing in who He is and being who He desires us to be.

Spending enough time in God’s presence, we’ll eventually recognize His Holy Spirit in our lives, as well as in the lives of others we may encounter. We’ll also develop the ability to rightly discern good and evil.

The Bible tells us, “Beloved, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits, whether they are of God; because many false prophets have gone out into the world.” (1 John 4:1/NKJV) This scripture was written for all believers, as we are His Beloved.

Then a few verses down in verse 7 we find “Beloved, let us love one another, for love is of God; and everyone who loves is born of God and knows God. He who does not love does not know God, for God is love.”

So, we should know God’s Holy Spirit and His love for us and not be deceived. We should also know that this love is not that we loved God, but that He loved us and sent His son to be the propitiation, or atoning sacrifice, for our sins, also stated in 1 John 4.

Our love for one another should be reflected in our speech toward others as Colossians 4:6 tells us to let it “always be with grace, seasoned with salt” so that we may know how we ought to answer each one.

In addition, the safety measures of setting healthy boundaries are good and necessary to be established in all places; work, church, family, and friendships. Knowing when someone is going beyond what the Bible shows to be a sound and respectful relationship of any kind helps us to guard our hearts as mentioned in Proverbs 4:23. Its importance is highlighted as it is written that our hearts are the wellsprings of life. What is a wellspring? A bountiful source of something.

Praying to God and studying the Bible to learn God’s character and principles for godly living, we come to know God specifically for ourselves, versus only through the experiences and advice of others.

We should then ask God to show us how to be led by His Holy Spirit, and then how to be led by others as we’ll need to do both in life. We’re told in Galatians 5:16 to be led by the Spirit so that we won’t fulfill the lusts of our flesh. These include those selfish things that are harmful to us and others; and those things that displease God. These things include: “sexual immorality, impurity, and debauchery; idolatry and witchcraft; hatred, discord, jealousy, fits of rage, selfish ambition, dissensions, factions, and envy; drunkenness, orgies, and the like” as stated in Galatians 5:19-20. Thankfully, His Holy Spirit’s fruit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control (Galatians 5:22-23).

Moreover, we should ask God to give us His perspective on relationships and not be discouraged if we haven’t fully seen it in our lives yet. God is available and willing to help us if we desire His help.

Living in His presence will protect us and help us to understand that love isn’t devious, deceptive, or controlling. We need only focus on Jesus, who’s full of goodness, honesty, and freedom. Hallelujah! Per Psalm 16:11, He’s made known to us “the path of life” and in “His presence there is fullness of joy;” and at “His right hand are pleasures forevermore.”

On Earth As It Is In Heaven

by Ms. Rita's Minute

On this National Day of Prayer, I’m reminded of an event in the Bible in Luke 11:1-4/KJV where the Lord responded to his disciples when they asked him to teach them to pray as John had taught his disciples. The Lord gave them a simple prayer that encompasses everything we need today. He started by telling them that when they prayed they were to say:

Our Father which art in heaven,
We can now pray to the Father in the place He resides, which the Bible tells us is Heaven, though Jesus also lives in us.
“Who is like unto the Lord our God, who dwelleth on high…” (Psalm 113:5/KJV) Examine yourselves, whether ye be in the faith; prove your own selves. Know ye not your own selves, how that Jesus Christ is in you, except ye be reprobates? (2 Corinthians 13:5)

Hallowed be thy name.
The Lord’s name is holy, consecrated; set apart
“Neither shall ye profane my holy name; but I will be hallowed among the children of Israel: I am the Lord which hallow you,” (Leviticus 22:32/KJV)

Thy kingdom come.
The Lord introduces His kingdom to his disciples as well as the blessings that come with it.
“And heal the sick that are therein, and say unto them, The kingdom of God is come nigh unto you.” (Luke 10:9/KJV)

Thy will be done, as in heaven, so in earth.
The Lord desires His will to be done where we live as where He lives. This can happen by renewing our minds via the Bible, thereby forgoing the ways of the world, which results in change.
“And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.” (Romans 12:2/KJV)

Give us day by day our daily bread.
As our heavenly Father, God can be trusted to supply all of our needs. He created the earth and everything in it. He is omnipotent; all-powerful. This is easy for Him.
But my God shall supply all your need according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus. (Philippians 4:19/KJV)

And forgive us our sins; for we also forgive everyone that is indebted to us.

God is merciful and gracious to forgive our sins, but He does require that we forgive others when we’ve been offended.
“For if ye forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you:
But if ye forgive not men their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses.” (Matthew 6:14-15/KJV)

And lead us not into temptation; but deliver us from evil.
We can rely on God to order our steps and deliver us from every form of evil.
“And the Lord shall deliver me from every evil work and will preserve me unto his heavenly kingdom: to whom be glory forever and ever. Amen.” (2 Timothy 4:18/KJV)
“For it is God which worketh in you both to will and to do of his good pleasure.” (Philippians 2:13/KJV)

Many other factual words of encouragement can be given to uphold these verses in the Lord’s teaching on prayer. However, I’ve only provided a few in my minutes of sharing with you. Nevertheless, I’d like us to remember the following words when our needs or the needs of others come to mind:

“And this is the confidence that we have in him, that, if we ask anything according to his will, he heareth us: And if we know that he hear us, whatsoever we ask, we know that we have the petitions that we desired of him.” (1 John 5:14-15/KJV)
“And I say unto you, Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you.” (Luke 11:9/KJV)
“Therefore I say unto you, What things soever ye desire, when ye pray, believe that ye receive them, and ye shall have them.” (Mark 11:24/KJV)
“If ye then, being evil, know how to give good gifts unto your children, how much more shall your Father which is in heaven give good things to them that ask him?” (Matthew 7:11/KJV)

This New Commandment is Deep

by Ms. Rita's Minute

Today I wanted to start my prayer time by reading aloud from the Bible’s book of Psalms as a prayer of my own. I arrived at one of David’s prayers and could not continue because it sounded so much like a curse against his enemies. Nevertheless, I understood his emotions having read all he had experienced from his adversaries in life. However, now we live in a new era after Jesus’ death and resurrection. We have been given a new commandment; a new edict, order, or rule: “Love one another.” (John 13:34) Moreover, this also includes loving our enemies as is taught by Jesus in Luke 6:27.

Interestingly, Jesus indicates it’s no big deal to love those who love us, and for most, if not all of us, even this is a difficult task. Yet the real demonstration of God’s love is loving our enemies (Luke 6:32-34). After all, this is what God does regularly showing His mercy and grace to everyone, though society sometimes represents this action as weak and wimpy behavior.

It’s actually scary to me sometimes, the thought of loving someone who may verbally or even physically abuse me. Yet God has ways unlike our ways and knows what is beneficial and wise for us in our responses to evil. We live to please Him. The Bible says to do good to them and lend to them without expecting anything in return. We are told to be kind and merciful to them (Luke 6:35-36). He tells us to bless and not to curse them and to pray for those who mistreat us.  He even tells us if someone slaps us on one cheek, to turn to them the other also, and If someone takes our coat, to not withhold our shirt from them (Luke 6:28-29). Now mastering these incredible feats really gets our Father’s attention and we will be rewarded by Him.

Nevertheless, I’m convinced that it is impossible to consistently love everyone without the help of the Holy Spirit. He’s the only person who can infuse us with the power to truly love someone who hates, hurts, and harasses us. Yet He doesn’t require us to repay them with like behavior. He is God and knows every unique fiber of their being and doing. So it is only God’s right and authority to handle them accordingly. Thankfully, God is love (1 John 4:8)!

May God give us the strength and courage to love everyone, including our enemies. Despite what society, and even some of our own brothers and sisters, teach us about self-preservation, we are commanded by God to live and respond differently–biblically. As a parent with children or a teacher with students, we may not always enjoy some methods of loving when we aren’t hearing or receiving exactly what we want at the time. Nevertheless, love in its many expressions, is an amazing blessing.

A Christian’s journey is a life of submission to a king and kingdom unlike any we’ve ever known. One that is not worldly, but where love is the chief commandment for living a holy and righteous life. In it, our aim is to do no wrong to a neighbor, even if he’s an enemy. By this we glorify the Father, acting like our Dad.

To me, in some ways, it just makes life easier; love them all! No need to pick and choose who gets the love. Though costly, God repays. Our enemies’ evil issues are not ours to transform. We can only say and do what God says. However, we leave it to God to change hearts in His highest sovereignty and wisdom, while we continue in prayer and obedience as an authentic follower of Christ. As we fellowship with our Father who is love, may we mature in expressing His kind of love to others.