Category Archives: Salvation and Repentance

Messages on Salvation and Repentance

The Pivotal Turning Point in America

Posted on by yolandaberry
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College students in classroom, Education

This has been a horrific week. For the past few days, I’ve watched countless videos of Charlie Kirk’s debates. I don’t follow politics besides watching the debates prior to the presidential elections. Unfortunately, I have never heard of him until the shooting that took place a few days ago. I’ve been quite numb trying to gather my thoughts on this whole thing.

Freedom of speech will not be silenced due to the lack of intolerance of differences in views, perspectives, beliefs, opinions and values. No one should be murdered for their beliefs or viewpoints. No one should be murdered period. We have witness countless shootings in schools, churches, concerts, major venues, public transportation, and in the streets of our communities.

On the anniversary of 911 this is a tragedy to witness the extremes of the changes that have taken place in America. This is not who we are and not what we stand for. I’m disgusted with the violence in this country. I’m disguised by the celebrations taken place by someone losing their life. This is an outrage and has created a Holy Ghost roar in the Spirit. Death and life are in the power of the tongue, and they that love it shall eat the fruit thereof. Prov 18:21.

In the Last Days, many hearts will grow cold. Lawlessness will rise. In 2 Tim:31-5, it states “But mark this: There will be terrible times in the last days. People will be lovers of themselves, lovers of money, boastful, proud, abusive, disobedient to their parents, ungrateful, unholy, without love, unforgiving, slanderous, without self-control, brutal, not lovers of the good, treacherous, rash, conceited, lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God— having a form of godliness but denying its power. Have nothing to do with such people.

You cannot silence the Word of God. His Word is a two-edged sword; it penetrates dividing the soul and spirit. joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart. Heb 4:12

The truth digs deep and gets under the skin and exposes the evil and darkness in people’s hearts.

What I tell you in the dark, speak in daylight; what is whispered in your ear, proclaim from the housetops! Matt 10:27

We will not bow to fear. We will not be silenced. We will not compromise our faith, freedom, values or political views. This country was founded on Biblical principles, morals and values. Let God arise and let our enemies be scattered. Psalm 68:1

God is jealous, and the Lord revengeth; the Lord revengeth, and is furious; the Lord will take vengeance on his adversaries, and he reserveth wrath for his enemies.
The Lord is slow to anger, and great in power, and will not at all acquit the wicked.

Nahum 1:1-3

The Lord led me to read Nahum a few weeks ago. Nahum was an Old Testament prophet who has not been mentioned much or at all in church sermons. Nahum pronounced God’s judgement against the nation of Assyria. Nineveh was the ancient capital city of the Assyrian Empire. There was a great rise and fall in the Assyrian nation which was taken over by the Babylonians. In 612 B.C. Nineveh was destroyed as the prophet Nahum warned.

Ninevah, much like today’s modern cities in America, was full of evil, and wickedness just like in the days of Noah. Jonah was called to deliver a message of repentance to the city. Jonah called a fast upon the city of Nineveh. The people were delivered and turned back to God and the city was restored.

5 So the people of Nineveh believed God, and proclaimed a fast, and put on sackcloth, from the greatest of them even to the least of them. 6 For word came unto the king of Nineveh, and he arose from his throne, and he laid his robe from him, and covered him with sackcloth, and sat in ashes.
7 And he caused it to be proclaimed and published through Nineveh by the decree of the king and his nobles, saying, Let neither man nor beast, herd nor flock, taste anything: let them not feed, nor drink water: 8 But let man and beast be covered with sackcloth, and cry mightily unto God: yea, let them turn everyone from his evil way, and from the violence that is in their hands. 9 Who can tell if God will turn and repent, and turn away from his fierce anger, that we perish not? 10 And God saw their works, that they turned from their evil way; and God repented of the evil, that he had said that he would do unto them; and he did it not.

Jonah 3:5-10

We are on the cusp of a turning point in America. The warning signs are all around us. Will we stand for holiness and righteousness, or will the hearts of many grow cold and callus as we falter into perverse, wickedness which has taken place in this nation and around the world?

I believe in humanity. I know there are still a multitude of people searching for God and want to get saved and baptized, learn more about God’s character, promises and principles and to do the right thing in their life. There are many others who are living for God and living as an example for Jesus Christ. Charlie Kirk was a great example of this.

Hope is not lost. It is found in opposition, chaos, conflict and strife. We must learn to be tolerant of other people’s differences, beliefs, perspectives and opinions even if we do not agree with them.

Jesus did not come to condemn the world but that the world through Him might be saved. John 3:17 God loves you so much that He gives you freedom of choice. You can believe how you want to believe, however “He who believes in Him is not condemned; but he who does not believe is condemned already because he has not believed in the name of the only begotten Son of God. [In other words, you choose not to believe] And this is the condemnation that the light has come into the world, and men loved darkness rather than light, because their deeds were evil. For everyone practicing evil hates the light and does not come to the light, lest his deeds should be exposed. But he who does the truth comes to the light, that his deeds may be clearly seen, that they have been done in God.” John 3:18-21

May our eyes be opened, may our hearts receive truth and fresh revelation of the Spirit and may our minds be transformed to the obedience of Christ. Let us carry boldness to stand in our faith, speak truth to the lost and stay prayerful with a repentance heart.

Much like in Nineveh, we must turn our hearts to the Lord to escape the destruction coming upon the land.

My heartfelt prayers and condolences go out to the family and friends of Charlie Kirk. He is resting with Lord in peace. To God be the Glory who is found in Jesus name!

Additional Bible Reading

14 If my people, which are called by my name, will humble themselves, and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways; then will I hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land. 2 Chron 7:14

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. Rom 12:2

18 The Lord is nigh unto them that are of a broken heart; and saveth such as be of a contrite spirit. Psalm 34:18

23 For life is more than food, and the body more than clothes. Luke 12:12

19 So shall they fear the name of the Lord from the west, and his glory from the rising of the sun. When the enemy shall come in like a flood, the Spirit of the Lord shall lift up a standard against him. Isaiah 59:19

10 Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. 11 Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes. 12 For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. 13 Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand. 14 Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist, with the breastplate of righteousness in place, 15 and with your feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace. 16 In addition to all this, take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one. 17 Take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God. 18 And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the Lord’s people. 19 Pray also for me, that whenever I speak, words may be given me so that I will fearlessly make known the mystery of the gospel, 20 for which I am an ambassador in chains. Pray that I may declare it fearlessly, as I should. Eph 6:10-20

4 ‘He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death’ or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away.” Rev 21:4

Ye though I walk through the darkest valley, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me. Psalm 23:4

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The Power of Forgiveness: Embracing Freedom and Healing

Posted on by zeevacawford
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Jesus on the cross, Easter, Resurrection, Easter Day, Forgiveness

Image by Romy from Pixabay

Forgiveness is often perceived as an act of kindness, a way of letting go of past grievances. Yet, forgiveness is much more than just a moral duty or a selfless gift to others. It is a powerful, life-changing practice that can bring profound freedom and healing. In a world filled with hurt, betrayal, and misunderstanding, forgiveness holds the key to restoring peace, not just with others, but within ourselves.

In this article, we will explore the strength of forgiveness, why it is essential, and how embracing it can lead us closer to true healing and freedom.

Moving Boxes, Releasing Stress, anxiety, problems, deadlines, break ups, work problems

Photo image from Pixabay Photographer Unknown

The Power of Letting Go

At its core, forgiveness is the act of releasing the pain and anger caused by someone’s actions. When we forgive, we let go of the emotional burden that holds us hostage. Forgiveness is not about excusing the wrongs done to us or pretending that they never happened. Rather, it is about choosing to release the power that those wrongs hold over our lives.

When we carry grudges or dwell on offenses, we often end up hurting ourselves more than anyone else. Holding onto anger may feel justifiable in the moment, but over time, it can cloud our judgment, distort our relationships, and weigh down our spirits. Forgiveness breaks this cycle, allowing us to move forward with peace and a renewed sense of hope.

Many find that exploring deeper spiritual insights can support them on this journey. Resources like Spiritual Life Stories offer enriching perspectives on forgiveness and healing, guiding individuals to embrace this transformative practice with compassion and grace.

Bible, opened book, book pages, Bible pages

Image by Tep Ro from Pixabay

The Biblical Foundation of Forgiveness

In Christianity, forgiveness is deeply rooted in the teachings of Jesus. One of the most well-known passages on forgiveness comes from the Lord’s Prayer, where Jesus instructs us to pray, “Forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us.” (Matthew 6:12, KJV). Jesus calls us not only to seek forgiveness but to extend it to others as well.

The Bible teaches us that forgiveness is a central component of our relationship with God and with others. Jesus himself demonstrated ultimate forgiveness on the cross when, as he was being crucified, he said, “Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing.” (Luke 23:34). This radical act of forgiveness shows us the depth of God’s grace and calls us to embody that same forgiveness in our lives.

Forgiveness is not easy, especially when the pain runs deep. But we are reminded in Scripture that God forgives us, and in turn, we are called to forgive others. In Ephesians 4:32, Paul writes, “Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.” Our forgiveness of others is a reflection of the grace we have received from God, and it is through this grace that we find healing.

woman reading a book in bed

Image by Karolina Grabowska from Pixabay

Forgiveness Brings Inner Peace

When we choose forgiveness, we make a conscious decision to let go of the negativity that weighs on our hearts. Holding onto anger or resentment can create a toxic environment in our minds, leading to stress, bitterness, and even physical ailments. Studies have shown that unforgiveness can increase anxiety, depression, and blood pressure. On the other hand, when we forgive, we allow peace to replace bitterness, and healing to take place.

Forgiveness doesn’t mean that we forget the wrongs done to us or that we condone the harmful behavior. Rather, it means that we are choosing to release the hold that those negative feelings have over us. In this process, we find freedom—a freedom that allows us to move forward without the heavy burden of past pain.

The act of forgiving can feel like a weight has been lifted from our shoulders. It creates space for healing, not only in our hearts but in our relationships. It allows us to start fresh, without the emotional baggage of resentment dragging us down.

A couple piggybacking

The Healing Process of Forgiveness

Forgiveness is not always a one-time event. Sometimes, it takes time to truly forgive, especially when the hurt is deep or ongoing. The healing process is different for everyone, and it’s important to give ourselves the grace to go through it at our own pace.

Start by acknowledging the pain. It’s okay to feel hurt, angry, or betrayed. These emotions are valid, and it’s important to process them before we can truly forgive. Suppressing or ignoring our feelings only prolongs the healing process. But as we face the pain, we can begin to release it, one step at a time.

Remember that forgiveness is a gift we give ourselves, not just the person who hurt us. It’s about reclaiming our peace and our joy. Sometimes, forgiveness involves setting healthy boundaries or seeking reconciliation, but it always starts with the decision to let go of the need for revenge or justice and embrace grace instead.

drops of water, ripples of water, rain drops

Image by roegger from Pixabay

The Ripple Effect of Forgiveness

One of the most powerful aspects of forgiveness is its ability to create a ripple effect. When we forgive, we not only heal ourselves, but we also contribute to healing those around us. Forgiveness has the power to mend broken relationships, restore trust, and create a culture of compassion and understanding.

When others see us choose forgiveness over bitterness, it can inspire them to do the same. Forgiveness encourages empathy, fosters unity, and promotes peace in our families, workplaces, and communities. It teaches us that, despite our differences and struggles, we are all human, and we all need grace.

The ripple effect of forgiveness extends beyond our immediate relationships. It impacts the way we interact with the world. When we walk in forgiveness, we choose to be agents of peace in a world that desperately needs it.

woman crying, woman upset

Forgiveness and Self-Forgiveness

While we often think about forgiveness in terms of others, it’s equally important to practice self-forgiveness. Many of us carry guilt and shame from our own mistakes and regrets. We may struggle to forgive ourselves, believing that we are unworthy of grace.

But the truth is, just as God forgives us, we are called to forgive ourselves. In 1 John 1:9, we are reminded, “If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.” Just as God forgives us, we must learn to forgive ourselves, releasing guilt and shame and embracing the freedom that comes from knowing we are forgiven.

Self-forgiveness is a powerful step toward healing and growth. It allows us to move forward in life with a sense of peace and purpose, knowing that we are not defined by our past mistakes but by the grace of God.

Holy communion, bread, wine, grapes

Image by isaiasmanica1 from Pixabay

The Power of Forgiveness

Forgiveness is not easy, but it is one of the most powerful tools we have for healing and freedom. It’s an act of strength, not weakness, and it allows us to break free from the chains of anger, resentment, and bitterness. Forgiveness brings peace to our hearts, healing to our relationships, and freedom to our souls.

When we choose to forgive, we walk in the footsteps of Christ, reflecting the grace and mercy that He extends to us each day. Forgiveness is a gift we give ourselves and those around us—a gift that has the power to transform lives, restore peace, and heal wounds.

So, if you are struggling with forgiveness, remember that it is a process, not a destination. Take it one step at a time, and know that in choosing forgiveness, you are walking in strength, healing, and the freedom that God desires for you.

May you take time to reflect on Jesus during this Resurrection season and on the act of unconditional love, grace and forgiveness that Jesus provides.

If you enjoyed this post, please share or leave your comments below.

This post was generated partially with AI and modified by the contributing author.

Contributing Author Bio: Zeeva Usman is an experienced content manager at Christian Marketing. Experts and a content specialist at Salt of Heaven, where she uses her expertise to create impactful, faith-centered content. When she’s not crafting words, Zeeva finds joy in worshiping and singing for the Lord Jesus, drawing inspiration from her faith to encourage others.

Subscribe to the newsletter which is sent directly to your inbox for devotional-style encouragement and inspirational messages, purpose-driven tools and resources created for the Body of Christ as well as faith-based entrepreneurs, creatives, personal brands, non-profits and ministry organizations. Stay current with the latest updates and strengthen your walk in the Lord.

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The Wind of Change

Posted on by yolandaberry
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sunset, field

Everything is changing very quickly in this world. Unfortunately, I don’t have a high level of anticipation, like I did when I was younger, for the new year. What I can say is that times and seasons are shifting beneath our feet whether we want it to or not, but we should maintain a high level of expectation in our Lord for He does not change. He is unmovable and unshakeable.

The current fires in Los Angeles have brought extreme devastation to California. This situation will not only affect California but will affect the economy and nationwide home insurance policies. Whether the fires were caused by a natural disaster or started by arsonists, the God of the father of Abraham, Issac and Jacob is calling His attention to the sins of this nation. How will we choose to respond or react to this catastrophe? Will we throw our fists in the air and grow angry, callus or rebellious toward God? Or will we fall on our knees in reverence and honor to the King of Kings and intercede and repent on behalf of this country?

Hollywood is well known for its idolatry. The exposure and fallen out of explicit sexual exploitation, sex trafficking, pornography, parade of homosexuality, sexual addiction and sexual abuse in the entertainment industry is a prime example of a modern-day Sodom and Gomorrah. The spotlight is shining on Hollywood as they face tremendous loss and an overwhelming recovery effort in this heartbreaking tragedy.

I noticed while looking at the map of California that the fires were in a circle which I was referring to as the “Ring of fire.” These fires are a warning. The alarm has sounded. Will the fires be a pre-cursor to a devastating earthquake? Let us pray against an earthquake hitting the state of California or additional tectonic plates around the world.

In the story of Sodom and Gomorrah, Lot was warned to leave the city before destruction and to not look back upon the city for else he and his wife would turn into a pillar of salt. In Genesis 19, Lot was warned that the land would be destroyed due to the sins of the people.

13 For we will destroy this place, because the cry of them is waxen great before the face of the Lord; and the Lord hath sent us to destroy it.
14 And Lot went out, and spake unto his sons in law, which married his daughters, and said, Up, get you out of this place; for the Lord will destroy this city. But he seemed as one that mocked unto his sons in law.
23 The sun was risen upon the earth when Lot entered into Zoar.
24 Then the Lord rained upon Sodom and upon Gomorrah brimstone and fire from the Lord out of heaven;

Gen 19:13-14, and 23-24 
13 For we will destroy this place, because the cry of them is waxen great before the face of the Lord; and the Lord hath sent us to destroy it. 14 And Lot went out, and spake unto his sons in law, which married his daughters, and said, Up, get you out of this place; for the Lord will destroy this city. But he seemed as one that mocked unto his sons in law. Gen 19:13-14

23 The sun was risen upon the earth when Lot entered into Zoar.

24 Then the Lord rained upon Sodom and upon Gomorrah brimstone and fire from the Lord out of heaven; Gen 19:23-24

28 And he looked toward Sodom and Gomorrah, and toward all the land of the plain, and beheld, and, lo, the smoke of the country went up as the smoke of a furnace.

29 And it came to pass, when God destroyed the cities of the plain, that God remembered Abraham, and sent Lot out of the midst of the overthrow, when he overthrew the cities in the which Lot dwelt. Gen 19: 28-29

History has a way of repeating itself especially when the lessons are not learned from the past. The vanity, greed and arrogance of man is embedded deeply in our culture. Celebrities are worshipped like gods. The music industry displays the demonic agenda boldly and proudly flaunts their wickedness on stage and within their lyrics as fans flock to their concerts to support them at any cost. Athletes are icons where fans rather attend sporting events than go to church. The movie industry plant seeds of witchcraft and evil to celebrate chaos, destruction and devastation as well as murder, crime, and torture. A woman’s anatomy has become a playground for lust and perversion. Children are no longer safe among adults. In reality, you have to keep a close eye on everything and everyone around you. Unfortunately, many innocent people suffer at the hands of evil men. We are in a spiritual war and it’s a real fight.

“For he maketh his sun to rise on the evil and on the good, and sends rain on the just and on the unjust.” Matt 5:45

Most don’t do anything until it affects them personally, but will we continue to be complacent with a blind eye or draw closer to the Lord? May the light of God shine amid darkness and awaken the blind.

The Lord says to the people, “Awake and come out of deep sleep and perverse darkness!”

“4 And the sword shall come upon Egypt, and great pain shall be in Ethiopia, when the slain shall fall in Egypt, and they shall take away her multitude, and her foundations shall be broken down. Ezk 30:4

7 And they shall be desolate in the midst of the countries that are desolate, and her cities shall be in the midst of the cities that are wasted.

8 And they shall know that I am the Lord, when I have set a fire in Egypt, and when all her helpers shall be destroyed.

9 In that day shall messengers go forth from me in ships to make the careless Ethiopians afraid, and great pain shall come upon them, as in the day of Egypt: for, lo, it cometh. Ezk 30:7-9

13 Thus saith the Lord God; I will also destroy the idols, and I will cause their images to cease out of Noph; and there shall be no more a prince of the land of Egypt: and I will put a fear in the land of Egypt. Ezk 30:13

15 And I will pour my fury upon Sin, the strength of Egypt; and I will cut off the multitude of No. Ezk 30:15

18 At Tehaphnehes also the day shall be darkened, when I shall break there the yokes of Egypt: and the pomp of her strength shall cease in her: as for her, a cloud shall cover her, and her daughters shall go into captivity.

19 Thus will I execute judgments in Egypt: and they shall know that I am the Lord. Ezk 30:18-19

Prayer for the Nation

Lord Father, we cast down our idols in honor to worship the one and only true God, “The Father God of Abraham, Issac and Jacob.” Forgive us for our selfish nature and disobedience. We repent and we turn away from sin. Wash our hands clean of all unrighteousness, cleanse our heart and renew our minds. Establish our steps to walk Holy as representatives of Christ. We pray for strength, courage and wisdom as we navigate through the terrains of life. May you uphold us with your righteous right hand and do not let us slip. We rest under the shelter of your wings.

May you provide strength, comfort and safety to all those affected by the current tragedies upon this new year and grant peace for those who have lost loved ones in the fatal attacks or L.A. fires. May you increase the strength and safety of the first responders and fire fighters and all those assisting in the care and outreach of those who have lost their homes. May you bring restoration and salvation to the loss. May the outpouring of the Holy Spirit be evident in the lives of your people and may the wind of the Holy Spirit be upon us.

In the precious Blood of Jesus. Amen.