Category Archives: Bible Stories

Standing on a Foundation of Faith

Posted on by yolandaberry
Reply
mountainoffaith

We’re living in some pivotal and turbulent times and it’s going to require a higher level of faith to get through the challenges coming upon the earth.

Faith requires extreme patience. Just because prayers are not answered on your time schedule does not mean God’s word will not come to pass.

We must continue to build our faith on a firm foundation that does not shake in times of turmoil and tribulations. Changes are happening swiftly and unexpectedly, so adaptability, wisdom, resilience, and self-control are in high demand, especially on how you handle situations and current circumstances.

You need to know when to move swiftly or slow down. Faith requires you to move in tune and in alignment with the Holy Spirit. Taking time to be still in the secret place with the Lord as well as reading the Word of God will equip you to build and maintain a strong relationship with the Lord.

Most people live in a tangible world, so they panic when they do not have the latest gadgets or when they don’t have enough or lack the physical or material things that are needed for survival. However, God will supply all your needs according to His riches in glory. Phil 4:19

Living in the supernatural requires a different perspective and belief. In Hebrews 11, there are countless events that took place that required faith.

The basic principle of faith requires us to stand in the unknown and to move forward even if you do not know or understand the outcome.

“Faith is the evidence of things hoped for and the evidence of things unseen.”

Heb 11:1
earth, world

The world was created by the Word of God so that the things which are seen were not made of things which are visible. Heb 11:3

“The earth was without form, and void; and darkness was on the face of the deep. And the Spirit of God was hovering over the face of the waters. Gen 1:2 It was through the breath of God that He made something out of nothing.

step of faith, direction, walking in faith

“And thine ears shall hear a word behind thee, saying, “This is the way; walk ye in it.” when ye turn to the right hand and when ye turn to the left. Isaiah 30:21

Faith Requires Action

Faith is based on relationship, not on religious practices or legalism. “By faith, Enoch was taken away so that he did not see death and was not found because God had taken him for before he was taken, he had this testimony that he pleased God.” Heb 11:5

“But without faith it is impossible to please Him, for he who comes to God must believe that He is, and that He is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him.” Heb 11:6

We simply cannot claim we have faith and sit back and wait for God to give us what we need or want. God does not move in vain prayers. Our true motives and intentions are revealed through our heart.

Although there will be distractions and obstacles thrown in our path, we must actively move forward despite feelings of fear, weariness, or doubt. We must be obedient to move according to the specific instructions that the Lord has given us.

There are endless events that took place which provided the evidence of God manifested.

“By faith Noah, being divinely warned of things not yet seen, moved with godly fear, prepared an ark for the saving of his household by which he condemned the world and became heir of the righteousness which is according to faith.” Heb 11:7

Sometimes, the Lord will tell you to do something that you do not understand but you should not question but move in obedience even though you may not understand. It will all unfold in God’s divine timing.

“By faith Abraham obeyed when he was called to go out to a place which he would receive an inheritance. And he went out, not knowing where he was going. By faith he dwelt in the land of promise as a foreign country, dwelling in tents with Isaac and Jacob, the heirs with him of the same promise. Heb 11:9

Faith is a terrifying process. It is not easy. It is like walking on a tight rope blind-folded on a high-rise building. Despite how many times the Lord reveals himself as faithful, there are times when you will still question if He will come through in a time of need. You must reflect on the times that He carried you through difficult situations and your faith will be strengthened through every trial.

Woman working out, exercising

Faith Triumphs in Trouble

I am a witness of the active presence of God moving in my life. Through extreme difficulties and turbulent storms, the Lord provided peace, strength, favor, protection, and provision. The faith journey is not for the weakness of mind or faint of heart. It takes stamina, power, and endurance through the Holy Spirit. It is not by might, nor by power but by my Spirit, saith the Lord. Zech 4:6 You simply cannot walk by the flesh but only by His Spirit. It’s like building muscles when you work out on a regular basis. It begins to strengthen as you endure the pain.

The Test of Faith

You will be tested severely by the hand of God. Your character, beliefs, values, ethics, integrity, perceptions, attitudes “Your Core” will go through the fire. You cannot escape this life without going through trouble. It all serves for a higher purpose according to His will.

“And not only so, but we glory in tribulations also; knowing that tribulation worketh patience; And patience, experience; and experience, hope: And hope maketh not ashamed; because the love of God is shed abroad in our hearts by the Holy Ghost which is given unto us.”

Romans 5:3-5
river, stream

“When thou pass through the waters, I will be with thee; and through the rivers, they shall not overflow thee; when thou walk through the fire, thou shalt not be burned; neither shall the flame kindle upon thee. Isaiah 43:2

It is by faith that Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego did not serve false images and gods, nor worshipped the golden image and was protected in the fiery furnace. It is by faith that Daniel survived the Lion’s Den. Daniel 3 and 6

In these last days, we will be severely tested as well. We must hold onto these examples of men of great faith who endured perilous times. There is strength in unity, and we must learn to unite despite our differences.

rope, cord

“A threefold chord is not easily broken.” Eccl 4:12

Let us move with diligence, faith, and hope with the empowerment of the Holy Spirit.

The blog doesn’t stop here. It will mean the world to me if you join my e-newsletter where you will receive inspiration, encouragement and the latest updates along your walk with the Lord. Join a faith-based community where you will be empowered to live by faith and not by sight.

Subscribe Now

Related Bible Verses

The Future House of God

This is what Isaiah son of Amoz saw concerning Judah and Jerusalem:
2 In the last days
the mountain of the Lord’s temple will be established
    as the highest of the mountains;
it will be exalted above the hills,
    and all nations will stream to it.
3 Many peoples will come and say,
“Come, let us go up to the mountain of the Lord,
    to the temple of the God of Jacob.
He will teach us his ways,
    so that we may walk in his paths.”
The law will go out from Zion,
    the word of the Lord from Jerusalem.
4 He will judge between the nations
    and will settle disputes for many peoples.
They will beat their swords into plowshares
    and their spears into pruning hooks.
Nation will not take up sword against nation,
    nor will they train for war anymore.

Isaiah 2:1-4

Luke 5:4-11

John 21:1-14

1 King 17:7-16

Matt 14:13-21

Matt 17:20

James 2:14-26

Romans 10:17

After the Storm: A Symbol of God’s Promise

Posted on by yolandaberry
Reply

During the time of Noah, the people were corrupt and evil. God commanded Noah to build an ark so his household would be saved from the impeding disaster that would take place. Noah was obedient despite the mockery and ridicule of the people. He understood the assignment and did what he had to do. When the flood came, he and his household were saved. God sent a rainbow as a promise that He would never send a flood upon the world again.

The rainbow is not only beautiful to look at, but it also symbolizes the Holy promise and covenant God made for generations to come.

In today’s world, this symbolic promise has been distorted and used as a representation of pride in the LGBTQ community. They have twisted and perverted the Holy nature and true meaning of what the rainbow represents for their own purposes. The rainbow is symbolically attached to living a sinful lifestyle as a mockery to God.

7 Be not deceived; God is not mocked: for whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap.

Gal 6:7

If you notice, there are more commercials, movies and TV shows that support the gay lifestyle. In the past, it was not accepted but it has been a subtle, consistent and gradual process of change. Violence should never be used against anyone but hate crimes escalated. They used the Civil Rights Movement to push their agenda onto societal norms for equal rights. Currently, the LGBTQ community has their own stand on equality which is called the Gay Liberation Movement.

I was recently watching a Saturday morning TV show where a gay man wrote a children’s book which clearly imposed his narrative about his homosexual lifestyle of being different. It had a subliminal undertone that children would not be able to identify.

A few years ago, drag queens were accepted into the school system to read books to children during story time. The mind of a child is heavily influenced by what they see and hear. It is a tender age where their minds are shaped and molded by their environment. By imposing unnatural relationships onto minors, it brings up questions that they should not even be thinking about at their age. Whatever seeds are planted at a young age, influences every aspect of a child. It could be for the good or the bad.

Train up a child in the way they should go and when he is old, he shall not depart from it.

Prov 22:6

Although I’ve had and still have gay friends, I do not support their lifestyle, but I allow them to live how they chose with hopes that I can be an expression and reflection of God’s love as an example for Christ.

Jesus came to this world so that all may be saved but He does not condone sin. This message is not rooted in judgement but out of an act of love for the Lord does not want anyone to perish in darkness.

Whether you’re in a natural or unnatural relationship, fornication, pornography or adultery is living in sin. God is calling for repentance of the heart and mind and to turn away from sin.

I cannot speak on behalf of the LGBTQ community, but I do feel the majority has been sexually molested, abused, raped or assaulted which has caused severe emotional, psychological and mental trauma in their lives. If they were completely honest, it is deep-rooted anguish and pain which has caused them to choose a homosexual lifestyle. Others may just have a curiosity which opened doors to seeking out sexual experiences. However, this is my opinion and not facts, but addressing past experiences and seeking counseling may possibly help someone who is struggling with sexual addictions or sexual tendencies of the same sex.

The Lord heals all wounds and scars and can transform lives. It all depends on your heart posture and if you’re open to receive Him by faith. Sadly, there is a strong spirit of rebellion which is emphasized in community gatherings which highlights their disposition and aggressiveness to prove their sexual expression. Finding the Lord is a personal decision and cannot be pushed on anyone however, Jesus has compassion, grace and mercy and will patiently wait and will leave ninety-nine to seek after one who is lost.

Additional References

22 Thou shalt not lie with mankind, as with womankind: it is abomination. Lev 18:22

26 For this cause God gave them up unto vile affections: for even their women did change the natural use into that which is against nature:

27 And likewise also the men, leaving the natural use of the woman, burned in their lust one toward another; men with men working that which is unseemly, and receiving in themselves that recompence of their error which was meet. Roman 1:26-27

Knowing this first that scoffers will come in the last days, walking according to their own lusts.

2 Peter 3:3

9 Even him, whose coming is after the working of Satan with all power and signs and lying wonders,

10 And with all deceivableness of unrighteousness in them that perish; because they received not the love of the truth, that they might be saved.

11 And for this cause God shall send them strong delusion, that they should believe a lie: 2 Thess 2:9-11

9 Know ye not that the unrighteous shall not inherit the kingdom of God? Be not deceived: neither fornicators, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor effeminate, nor abusers of themselves with mankind,

10 Nor thieves, nor covetous, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor extortioners, shall inherit the kingdom of God. 1 Corth 6:9-10

“If a man also lies with mankind, as he lieth with a woman, both of them have committed an abomination: they shall surely be put to death; their blood shall be upon them. Lev 20:13

18 Pride goeth before destruction, and an haughty spirit before a fall. Prov 16:18

18 For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men, who hold the truth in unrighteousness;

19 Because that which may be known of God is manifest in them; for God hath shewed it unto them.

20 For the invisible things of him from the creation of the world are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even his eternal power and Godhead; so that they are without excuse:

21 Because that, when they knew God, they glorified him not as God, neither were thankful; but became vain in their imaginations, and their foolish heart was darkened.

22 Professing themselves to be wise, they became fools,

23 And changed the glory of the uncorruptible God into an image made like to corruptible man, and to birds, and four-footed beasts, and creeping things.

24 Wherefore God also gave them up to uncleanness through the lusts of their own hearts, to dishonor their own bodies between themselves:

25 Who changed the truth of God into a lie, and worshipped and served the creature more than the Creator, who is blessed forever. Amen.

26 For this cause God gave them up unto vile affections: for even their women did change the natural use into that which is against nature:

27 And likewise also the men, leaving the natural use of the woman, burned in their lust one toward another; men with men working that which is unseemly, and receiving in themselves that recompence of their error which was meet.

28 And even as they did not like to retain God in their knowledge, God gave them over to a reprobate mind, to do those things which are not convenient.

29 Being filled with all unrighteousness, fornication, wickedness, covetousness, maliciousness; full of envy, murder, debate, deceit, malignity; whisperers,

30 Backbiters, haters of God, despiteful, proud, boasters, inventors of evil things, disobedient to parents,

31 Without understanding, covenant breakers, without natural affection, implacable, unmerciful:

32 Who knowing the judgment of God, that they which commit such things are worthy of death, not only do the same, but have pleasure in them that do them. Rom 1:18-32

From the Crucifixion to Resurrection: The Journey of Christ through Tribulation to Victory

Posted on by yolandaberry
Reply
Jesus, Christ
Then said Jesus, Father, forgive them; for they know not what they do.  Luke 23:34

The story of the crucifixion and resurrection of Jesus Christ has evoked much emotion, contemplation, and reverence in the lives of the believer worldwide. This occurrence of sacrifice, love and forgiveness is the cornerstone of our faith. It’s a timeless event that transcends every aspect of our past, present and future which offers lessons in every area of our lives.

The crucifixion of Jesus reflects the betrayal, suffering and ultimate sacrifice. From the betrayal of Judas Iscariot, one of Jesus’s disciples, who sold Jesus’s life in exchange for money to the religious authorities which led to his arrest to the Roman governor Pontius Pilate, who ultimately sentence him to death in replacement of releasing Barabbas, a murderer and criminal, as well as the crowds who turned on him at a moment’s notice. The crucifixion was a brutal form of execution for the worst criminals.

But he was wounded for our transgressions, he was bruised for our iniquities: the chastisement of our peace was upon him; and with his stripes we are healed. 6 All we like sheep have gone astray; we have turned everyone to his own way; and the LORD hath laid on him the iniquity of us all.

Isaiah 53:5

Jesus was forced to carry his cross along the roadside while he was mocked, beaten and scourged leading to being nailed to the Cross to suffer for the remission of our sins.

From the darkness of this event to the miraculous victory, Jesus rose from the dead after three days triumphing over sin, sickness and death. It is hope and the promise of redemption. It signifies the victory of light over darkness, good over evil, and life over death.

Through the resurrection, Jesus offers believers the hope of eternal life and the promise of redemption. It is a mirrored effect of compassion, forgiveness, and selflessness as we continue to be transformed into the character of Jesus for His glory as His message resonates with people of all faiths and backgrounds.

The power of the resurrection holds lessons for humanity. It teaches us the value of sacrifice and the importance of forgiveness and the transformative power of love. In a world plagued by division, disease, famine, war, strife, violence, and suffering, it is the power of love that conquers all.

As we take time to reflect on the resurrection of Christ, let us not dwell on the past but press on to the future with hope and faith. Let us embed the Word in our heart and let it guide us to a world of peace, justice, and compassion as we journey through life mindfully focusing and practicing the lessons Jesus provided and receiving the ultimate sacrifice through His love and eternal hope Jesus offers to us.

If you have not received Christ as your Savior and you want to ensure that you receive the gift of salvation, please take a moment and say this prayer out loud:

“Lord, Jesus, I acknowledge you as my Lord and Savior. I believe that you died on the cross for my sins and was raised from the dead on the third day. I repent for my sins, poor choices, and mistakes. Come into my heart and renew my mind. Mold and shape me the way you want me to be. I open my heart to receive the Holy Spirit to guide, teach, comfort and protect me. Release me from all evil and temptation. Thank you for restoring my life. I glorify your name Jesus, who is above all names. From this day forth, I live to worship you. I praise you and rejoice to be a part of your heavenly family. I understand that I am not perfect and will make mistakes along my journey but help me to walk and lead as an example of Christ.  In Jesus Name. Amen.”

Welcome to the family of Christ. He loves you, dearly. Although you may not feel any different after saying this prayer. Just know that Jesus has heard your prayer and He lives in your heart. You have been cleansed from all of your past sin nature. There is no guilt or condemnation in Christ Jesus. Be transformed by the renewing of your mind.

Happy Resurrection Day!

Grace & Blessings,

Yolanda-

Did you know?

I can help you on your faith journey. Subscribe to my free e-newsletter to connect with me to learn more about what I’m in the process of building and become a part of the community.

Subscribe here

Related Bible Passages

1 John 1:9

If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.

John 11:25-26

Jesus said to her, “I am the resurrection and the life. He who believes in Me, though he may die, he shall live. 26 And whoever lives and believes in Me shall never die. Do you believe this?”

1 Corth 15:26-27

25 For He must reign till He has put all enemies under His feet. 26 The last enemy that will be destroyed is death. 27 For “He has put all things under His feet.” But when He says “all things are put under Him,” it is evident that He who put all things under Him is excepted.

1 Corth 15:49-52

And as we have borne the image of the man of dust, we[a] shall also bear the image of the heavenly Man.

Our Final Victory

50 Now this I say, brethren, that flesh and blood cannot inherit the kingdom of God; nor does corruption inherit incorruption. 51 Behold, I tell you a [b]mystery: We shall not all sleep, but we shall all be changed— 52 in a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trumpet. For the trumpet will sound, and the dead will be raised incorruptible, and we shall be changed.

1 Corth 15:54-57

So when this corruptible has put on incorruption, and this mortal has put on immortality, then shall be brought to pass the saying that is written: “Death is swallowed up in victory.”

55 “O[a] Death, where is your sting? O Hades, where is your victory?” 56 The sting of death is sin, and the strength of sin is the law. 57 But thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.

Phil 3:20-21

For our citizenship is in heaven, from which we also eagerly wait for the Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ, 21 who will transform our lowly body that it may be conformed to His glorious body, according to the working by which He is able even to subdue all things to Himself.

Isaiah 25:8

He will swallow up death forever,
And the Lord God will wipe away tears from all faces;
The rebuke of His people
He will take away from all the earth;
For the Lord has spoken.

Phil 2:5-11

The Humbled and Exalted Christ

5 Let this mind be in you which was also in Christ Jesus, 6 who, being in the form of God, did not consider it robbery to be equal with God, 7 but made Himself of no reputation, taking the form of a bondservant, and coming in the likeness of men. 8 And being found in appearance as a man, He humbled Himself and became obedient to the point of death, even the death of the cross. 9 Therefore God also has highly exalted Him and given Him the name which is above every name, 10 that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of those in heaven, and of those on earth, and of those under the earth, 11 and that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.