Tag Archives: purpose

The Guardian of Safety, Protection and Well-being

Posted on by yolandaberry
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Discover how God’s unwavering presence serves as our ultimate source of safety, refuge, and well-being, offering peace and confidence through adversity and life’s uncertainties.

The disciples walked with Jesus and experienced miraculous miracles, yet they still had disbelief. When Peter took his eyes off Jesus, he began to sink as he walked on the water. Matt 14:22-33

After the resurrection, Thomas asked to place his fingers in Jesus’ wounded hands as proof and evidence of his resurrection.

When they found out that Lazarus died, Martha who proclaimed to believe that Jesus would resurrect Lazurus from the dead shifted to unbelief when Jesus commanded to roll away the stone and yelled, “Lazurus, come forth!”

When a girl of 12 years was ill, Jesus commanded everyone to leave the room due to unbelief.

Jesus could not work miracles in His hometown due to unbelief.

These are a few examples of how important trust and belief are to walking in the Spirit and standing in faith.

Fear is rooted in unbelief. The countless stories in the Bible are a reflection to the experiences we are facing in the world today. There are over 300-400 Bible passages that state, “Do not fear” yet, we struggle with worry, doubt, fear, anxiety and unbelief. We’ve been carried through countless storms and tribulations as we’ve experienced the Lord’s hand of protection, provision and security upon our lives yet, we still fear. How many more signs and wonders must Jesus perform before we trust and believe in Him? All it takes is one radical act of faith to shift the trajectory of your circumstance or situation.

The woman with the issue of blood grabbed the hem of Jesus garment for healing. A paralyzed man was healed at the pool of Bethesda after suffering for 38 years. Job’s wife told him to curse God and die and his friends strongly criticized and judged Job for self-righteousness and wrongdoing. However, Job believed God through the difficult challenges and losses that he faced.

When we walk in the Spirit, we have protection and security that cannot be explained. There is an overwhelming peace which cradles our thoughts and strengthens our emotions to handle tough situations. The Word of God activates our faith and pushes us into action. When we release fear, we have a sense of freedom. We are no longer bound to the enemies’ lies and deception. We stop second-guessing ourselves. We rely on God to perform His work and lean on the promises, decrees and declarations of His Word. Fear melts away as you establish a firm foundation on a relationship with Jesus.

It’s so easy to be afraid of what we see happening in the world. Our communities are being torn apart by drugs, crime, murders, natural disasters, financial instability, inflation and sexual immorality. There has been a steady decline in the value of life. There is an insensitivity to compassion in our culture through the violence highlighted in our entertainment.

The Lord understood all of this would take place in the end times. Prophecies are being fulfilled rapidly. So, how do you stay grounded when the world is shaking? Your emphasis and focus should remain in Him despite the turbulence. Stay rooted. Do whatever it takes to guard your peace and energy. We simply do not have time to waste on foolishness. If you have walk away, run. If you must be alone, be still. The key is to listen and be honest with your emotions however your emotions do not guide your spiritual compass. Jesus does. Emotions are fleeting. You should have self-control over your emotions. Emotions can stir you in the wrong direction. You cannot trust your emotions. They are like a rollercoaster that’s subject to your current circumstances so you must learn to hear the Lord and lean on Him.

Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not to your own understanding, acknowledge Him in all your ways and He shall direct your path.

Prov 3:5-6

By reading the Word of God, you will be led to direct instructions and answers on how to navigate through the maze of life. It provides peace, wisdom, assurance, and guidance.

You might not understand why things may go the way they do. It’s like a puzzle that’s scattered but as you begin to pick up the pieces, a clearer picture is formed out of chaos.

133 Order my steps in thy word: and let not any iniquity have dominion over me. 134 Deliver me from the oppression of man: so, will I keep thy precepts. 135 Make thy face to shine upon thy servant; and teach me thy statutes. 136 Rivers of waters run down mine eyes, because they keep not thy law.

Psalm 119:133-136

So, if you’re struggling with doubt, fear, worry or unbelief, I highly recommend you shift your focus to the possibilities and opportunities that are lying dormant due to fear.

With men this is impossible; but with God all things are possible. Matt 19:26

What is the one thing that you’re depending on God to change in your life that may cause you to doubt or fear? Lean in and refuse to let go of the promises of God.

Sister in Christ,

Yolanda-

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Bible verses are not just words on a page. They are living words and testaments of God’s promises, covenants, miracles and prophecies. As you read these words, plant and embed the words in heart and repeat them as many times as needed until you feel a sense of peace, courage and comfort.

Isaiah 26:3

3 Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on thee: because he trusteth in thee.

Psalm 56:3-4

3 What time I am afraid, I will trust in thee. 4 In God I will praise his word, in God I have put my trust; I will not fear what flesh can do unto me.

Psalm 91:2

2 I will say of the Lord, He is my refuge and my fortress: my God; in him will I trust.

Matt 6:25-26

25 Therefore I say unto you, Take no thought for your life, what ye shall eat, or what ye shall drink; nor yet for your body, what ye shall put on. Is not the life more than meat, and the body than raiment?

26 Behold the fowls of the air: for they sow not, neither do they reap, nor gather into barns; yet your heavenly Father feedeth them. Are ye not much better than they?

Jer 17:7-8

7 Blessed is the man that trusteth in the Lord, and whose hope the Lord is.

8 For he shall be as a tree planted by the waters, and that spreadeth out her roots by the river, and shall not see when heat cometh, but her leaf shall be green; and shall not be careful in the year of drought, neither shall cease from yielding fruit.

Isaiah 41:10

10 Fear thou not; for I am with thee: be not dismayed; for I am thy God: I will strengthen thee; yea, I will help thee; yea, I will uphold thee with the right hand of my righteousness.

Joshua 1:9

9 Have not I commanded thee? Be strong and of a good courage; be not afraid, neither be thou dismayed: for the Lord thy God is with thee whithersoever thou goest.

2 Tim 1:7

7 For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind.

Psalm 23:4

4 Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me.

Psalm 18:30

As for God, his way is perfect: the word of the Lord is tried: he is a buckler to all those that trust in him.

Phil 4:8

8 Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there is any virtue, and if there is any praise, think on these things.

Redeeming the Time: Making Every Moment Count

Posted on by yolandaberry
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11 And that, knowing the time, that now it is high time to awake out of sleep: for now is our salvation nearer than when we believed Rom 13:11

When I was leaving work, I was so frustrated and aggravated that it took two hours instead of my average half-hour to forty-five minute commute. Nothing feels worse than wasted time.

Time is a commodity. It’s more valuable than money. Money can be lost or gained but time cannot be replaced. Only with God, who is not restricted by any single moment, can redeem the time.

When I was younger, I never understood or realized the value of time but as much as I feel that time was wasted, there is a divine timing and purpose for everything. Despite the setbacks, delays or stagnation, there is purpose in all of it.

There was a recent plane crash in Brazil reported on the news. The video featured the plane spiraling out of control. They interviewed one person who was late for his flight and was not allowed to board the plane which saved his life.

There were also countless stories that took place during the World Trade Center attacks where people did not go into work that day or was running late which saved their lives.

9 A man’s heart deviseth his way: but the Lord directeth his steps.

Prov 16:9

So whether commuting in traffic or traveling abroad, timing can literally be a matter of life or death. You must trust that every delay, missed opportunity or setback will train, equip, guide, protect, develop or teach you something that will move you forward to the next phase of life. However, we must be diligent and wise on how we use or spend our time.

Good planning and hard work lead to prosperity,
    but hasty shortcuts lead to poverty.

Prov 21:5

There are three major time wasters that you should pay attention to.

Procrastination

Procrastination is a definite time waster because you continually put off what needs to be done. When you deal with procrastination, there is an underlying issue that needs to be addressed whether it’s emotional, psychological,or mental.

When you deal with uncomfortable or overwhelming feelings, you tend to put things off. This is the devil’s playground because he never wants to see you accomplish anything. His main mission is to kill, steal and destroy which also includes stealing your time.

4 I must work the works of him that sent me, while it is day: the night cometh, when no man can work.

John 9:4

Laziness

Slothfulness is another time waster. You cannot accomplish anything if you’re lazy or weary so having stamina, energy, and enthusiasm is a priority in completing tasks. Motivation and inspiration is based on feelings which are fleeting so you cannot depend on it. You should have persistence, determination and resilience which overrides tough situations and the challenges of life.

Depression

Depression is not often looked at as a time waster but it definitely is one of the most deliberate weapons the enemy uses to steal your time. When you’re in a heavily burdened state of mind, it is an emotional state that bears you down and is a hinderance to your progress. It steals your time from being productive. When you have no desires or interest, it can take a toll on your overall well-being.

You cannot move forward if you have low energy, defeating thoughts or a negative outlook or attitude. It will suck the life out of you due to the low-level thoughts and emotions. You should replace your defeating thoughts with the Word of God, which is health and healing, substance and life.

Lastly, you should also consider your environment. What do you watch or listen to on a regular basis? Who do you spend time with? Being selective on your daily activities and with whom or spend your time reveals your priorities.

If this message has helped or encouraged you, please share with your connections or leave a comment.

I would like to leave you with a few Bible verses to stand on for any season in life.

May you be blessed!

Daily Meditation

Eccl 3:11

11 He hath made every thing beautiful in his time: also he hath set the world in their heart, so that no man can find out the work that God maketh from the beginning to the end.

Eccl 3:1-8

 To every thing there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven: 2 A time to be born, and a time to die; a time to plant, and a time to pluck up that which is planted; 3 A time to kill, and a time to heal; a time to break down, and a time to build up; 4 A time to weep, and a time to laugh; a time to mourn, and a time to dance; 5 A time to cast away stones, and a time to gather stones together; a time to embrace, and a time to refrain from embracing; 6 A time to get, and a time to lose; a time to keep, and a time to cast away; 7 A time to rend, and a time to sew; a time to keep silence, and a time to speak; 8 A time to love, and a time to hate; a time of war, and a time of peace.

Jer 29:11

11 For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, saith the Lord, thoughts of peace, and not of evil, to give you an expected end. (KJV)

Prov 27:1

Don’t brag about tomorrow, since you don’t know what the day will bring. (NLT)

Psalms 31:15

15 My times are in Your hands. Free me from the hands of those who hate me, and from those who try to hurt me.

Psalms 90:12

12 So teach us to number our days, that we may apply our hearts unto wisdom. (KJV)

Esther 4:14

14 For if you remain silent at this time, relief and deliverance for the Jews will arise from another place, but you and your father’s family will perish. And who knows but that you have come to your royal position for such a time as this?” (NIV)

2 Peter 3:9

9 The Lord is not slow in keeping his promise, as some understand slowness. Instead he is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance. (NIV)

Eph 5:15-17

15 Be very careful, then, how you live—not as unwise but as wise, 16 making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil. 17 Therefore do not be foolish, but understand what the Lord’s will is. (NIV)

1 Thess 5:1-3

Now, brothers and sisters, about times and dates we do not need to write to you, 2 for you know very well that the day of the Lord will come like a thief in the night. 3 While people are saying, “Peace and safety,” destruction will come on them suddenly, as labor pains on a pregnant woman, and they will not escape. (NIV)

Joel 2:25

25 And I will restore to you the years that the locust hath eaten, the cankerworm, and the caterpillar, and the palmerworm, my great army which I sent among you. (KJV)

James 4:13-17

13 Now listen, you who say, “Today or tomorrow we will go to this or that city, spend a year there, carry on business and make money.” 14 Why, you do not even know what will happen tomorrow. What is your life? You are a mist that appears for a little while and then vanishes.15 Instead, you ought to say, “If it is the Lord’s will, we will live and do this or that.” 16 As it is, you boast in your arrogant schemes. All such boasting is evil. 17 If anyone, then, knows the good they ought to do and doesn’t do it, it is sin for them. (NIV)

Eight Keys to Spiritual Growth and Development

Posted on by yolandaberry
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The Lifestyle of a Believer

Spiritual growth is a journey that many people embark on at some point in their lives. It involves exploring your inner self, understanding your purpose, and connecting with God, Jesus and the Holy Spirit to lead you to all truth. Here are eight keys to spiritual growth that can help you on this journey.

1. Mindfulness

Mindfulness is the practice of being present in the moment and being aware of your thoughts, feelings,and surroundings. You become highly intuitive and sensitive to the things around you and to others emotions and the needs around you. It involves observing your thoughts without judgement, as well as accepting and releasing them. Mindfulness is essential to connecting your heart and mind with the intentions that the Lord has for your life. It leads you to a sense of inner peace and awareness, which is essential for spiritual growth.

2. Gratitude

Gratitude is the practice of being thankful for the blessings in your life, big or small. It helps you focus on the positive aspects of your life and shifts your perspective to one of abundance rather than lack. Gratitude also helps you cultivate a sense of humility and appreciation for the people and things in your life.

3. Self-Reflection

Self reflection is the practice of looking inward and examining your thoughts, feelings, emotions, actions and behavior. It helps you identify areas of your life that need improvement and to become more self aware. Self-Reflection also helps you cultivate a sense of compassion as well as set boundaries for yourself and others.

4. Connection with Nature

Nature has a way of reminding us of our place in the world and connecting us with all living things. Spending time in nature releases stress and centers your thoughts. It cultivates a sense of peace and eliminates confusion and chaos. Water is extremely calming and is of the Spirit. It is essential for life. The ocean, sea or river is life-giving and provides your being to relax and embrace the moment. Being in nature helps you appreciate the beauty and expression of God’s creation.

5. Service to others

Service to others is the practice of helping those in need and contributing to the wellbeing of others and your community. It helps you cultivate a sense of purpose and meaning in your life and to connect with others on a deep level. Service to others also helps develop a sense of compassion and empathy for those who are sick, elderly or less fortunate.

6. Prayer and Meditation

Prayer and meditation are powerful practices for spiritual growth. When you a build relationship with God, daily communication is the lifeline to your spiritual process that strengthens your faith. Connecting with the Creator is a lifestyle not a religion.

7. Reading the Bible

Reading the Bible is the living word that comes to life on the page. Each time you read the scripture, you receive new insight and revelation. It builds your faith and your character in Christ. You develop a strong solid foundation that cannot be shaken by the events happening in the world. It’s life’s instruction manual to divinely guide you through the obstacles, challenges and difficulties of life. It also fills you with the power, wisdom and strength to natigate through the plots, schemes and plans of the enemy.

8. Forgivessness Sets You Free

Forgiveness is the practice of letting go of, resentment and anger which leads to bitterness towards those who wronged you. It helps you cultivate a sense of compassion and understanding for others and releases negative emotions that can hold you back. Forgiveness also helps you develop a sense of inner peace and freedom. You no longer will keep living in the past and recycling old memories but have the ability to move forward in your life. Forgiveness does not mean you have to accept the person that mistreated or abused you and keep them in your circle. Setting healthy boundaries from toxic relationships is mandatory and allows you to heal from every bad situation, experience or toxic environment.

Spiritual growth is a lifelong journey that requires patience, dedication, and application. When you walk in the fruits of the spirit which is joy, love, faithfulness, forbearance, patience, gentleness, goodness, kindness, self-control, you reflect the character of Jesus. Gal 5:22-23

It deepens your relationship with God and others. By activating mindfulness, gratitude, self-reflection, connection with nature, service to others, prayer and meditation, Bible study and forgiveness, you can deepen your spiritual walk and find greater meaning and purpose in your life.

If this post inspired you in your walk with the Lord, please feel free to leave a like, comment or share with a friend. If you would like to receive more encouraging posts, please subscribe by email or WordPress.

Bible Scriptures

Mindfulness

Be still and know that I am God. Psalms 46:10

Gratitude

Be thankful in all circumstances because this is Gods will for you who belongs to Christ Jesus. 1Thess 5:18

Self–Reflection

But be doers of the Word, and not heaters only, deceiving yourselves. For anyone is a bearer of the word and not a doer, he is like a man observing his natural face in a mirror; for he observes himself, goes away, and immediately forgets what kind of man he was. James 1:22-24

Connection with Nature

For since the creation of the world His invisible attributes are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even His eternal power and Godhead, so that they are without excuse. Romans 1:20

Service to others

For God is not unjust to forget your work and labor of love which you have shown toward his name, in that you have ministered to the the saints, and do minister. Heb 6:10

Prayer and Meditation

Do not be anxious for anything , but with prayer and thanksgiving making your request known to God, Phil 4:6-7

Keep this Book of the Law always on your lips; meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do everything written in it. Then you will be prosperous and successful. Joshua 1:8

Let the words of my mouth and the mediation of my heart be acceptable in your sight. Psalm 19:14

Reading the Bible

Blessed is he who reads and those who hear the words of this prophecy, and keep those things which are written in it; for the time is near. Rev 1:3

Forgiveness

Let all bitterness, wrath, anger, clamor, and evil speaking be put away from you with all malice. And be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God in Christ forgave you. Ephesians 4:31-32