Marital Women of Faith Blog

“But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us” (Romans 5:8).

Imagine a shepherd who owns 100 sheep, each valuable and precious. One day, one of those sheep wanders off, lost in a rugged, treacherous wilderness. Logic might dictate that the shepherd should focus on the 99 sheep who are safe. But love drives the shepherd to leave the comfort of the flock and venture into danger, searching tirelessly for the one lost sheep. His pursuit is relentless and risky, but he won’t stop until the lost one is found.

This is the reckless love of God. It’s not reckless in the sense of carelessness but in its overwhelming, extravagant, and all-consuming nature. God’s love doesn’t calculate risk or weigh cost—it pours itself out completely, driven by a fierce desire to bring His children back to Him.

Throughout scripture we will find many examples of this amazing love. God’s love knows no bounds and his love is unconditional, meaning no matter what you’ve done or where you’ve been, God’s provision has made a way for us to return to Him. The Parable of the Lost Sheep (Luke 15:3-7): Jesus tells the story of a shepherd leaving the 99 to find one lost sheep. This demonstrates how God’s love prioritizes the individual, no matter how far they’ve wandered. “And when he finds it, he joyfully puts it on his shoulders and goes home. Then he calls his friends and neighbors together and says, ‘Rejoice with me; I have found my lost sheep’” (Luke 15:5-6).

The reckless love of God is also vividly portrayed in this parable. The Prodigal Son (Luke 15:11-32). The father’s love defies social norms as he runs to embrace his son, forgives him without hesitation, and restores him to a position of honor. “But while he was still a long way off, his father saw him and was filled with compassion for him; he ran to his son, threw his arms around him, and kissed him” (Luke 15:20).

Hosea and Gomer (Hosea 1-3). Here the love God is demonstrated when He instructed the prophet Hosea to marry Gomer, a woman who repeatedly betrayed him. Despite her unfaithfulness, Hosea’s relentless pursuit and love for her mirrored God’s love for Israel and His people. “The Lord said to me, ‘Go, show your love to your wife again, though she is loved by another man and is an adulteress. Love her as the Lord loves the Israelites’” (Hosea 3:1).

Jesus’ Sacrifice on the Cross (John 3:16). The ultimate display of God’s reckless love is found in Jesus’ sacrifice. He endured the shame and agony of the cross to save humanity, even while many rejected Him. In order to love as God loves, it must be unconditional. Below are the characteristics of God’s Reckless love we are to imitate.

The Characteristics of God’s Reckless Love are divinely different from what the world demonstrates. We must rely heavily on the word of God and the Holy Spirit to transform us into His loving image and rely solely on His Spirit to do the work through us. God’s Reckless Love:

1. Pursues Relentlessly: God’s love chases after us, even when we run away from Him and follow the ways of the world. “Surely your goodness and love will follow me all the days of my life” (Psalm 23:6).

2. It Sacrifices Without Hesitation: God’s love doesn’t hold back—it gives everything. “For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son” (John 3:16).

3. It Forgives Extravagantly: God’s love is ready to forgive and restore us, no matter how far we’ve fallen.“As far as the east is from the west, so far has he removed our transgressions from us” (Psalm 103:12).

God’s reckless love provides hope for us today and assures us that no matter how far we’ve wandered, how broken we feel, or how unworthy we think we are, He will always pursue us, forgive us, and restore us. It’s a love that defies logic and exceeds comprehension—a love that rescues, heals, and transforms.

Let this reckless love inspire us to trust Him fully and love others with the same grace and passion He shows us.

“For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believes in Him shall not perish, but have everlasting life.” John 3:16

Imagine you’re a sailor navigating the ocean, following the compass to your intended destination. The compass represents God’s Word and His will for your life. When you ignore the compass and steer off course, you might find yourself in turbulent waters, vulnerable to storms, and drifting farther from safety. Yet, even in this perilous state, the Coast Guard—a symbol of God’s grace—is always on alert, ready to rescue you. All you have to do is call for help.

God’s “bailout system” is like that ever-watchful Coast Guard. His love, mercy, and redemptive plan are always available to pull us out of spiritual danger and set us back on course. The Bible provides us many examples of how the same God back then is the same God today who continues to extend His Mercy towards all man kind. Below are just a few examples of the overwhelming reckless love of God for His children.

1.) Jonah and The Whale (chapters 1-3 ) Let’s take a look at Jonah’s redemptive story and just how far God is willing to go to save us even when we willfully choose the wrong way. Jonah disobeyed God’s command to go to Nineveh, choosing instead to flee to Tarshish. His disobedience led him into a literal storm, swallowed by a great fish. While in the belly of the fish, Jonah repented, and God rescued him. Jonah was given a second chance to fulfill God’s will, proving that even when we stray, God’s bailout system can restore us.

• Key Verse: “Then Jonah prayed to the Lord his God from the stomach of the fish, and the Lord commanded the fish, and it vomited Jonah up onto the dry land” (Jonah 2:1, 10).

2.) The Prodigal Son (Luke 15:11-32) The younger son squandered his inheritance in reckless living, finding himself in poverty and despair. When he realized his need for his father’s mercy, he returned home, where his father embraced him with open arms. This parable demonstrates God’s readiness to forgive and restore us when we earnestly turn back to Him. Where there is a lack of humility and empathy for others, you will find there are still some who never find this redemptive love due to selfishness

• Key Verse: “But while he was still a long way off, his father saw him and felt compassion, and ran and embraced him and kissed him” (Luke 15:20).

3. Peter’s Restoration (John 21:15-19) Peter denied Jesus three times, falling short of his commitment to follow Christ. Yet, after His resurrection, Jesus reinstated Peter, commissioning him to “feed My sheep.” This shows that even when we fail, God’s bailout system not only forgives but also reaffirms our purpose.

• Key Verse: “Jesus said to him, ‘Feed my sheep. Truly, truly, I say to you, when you were younger, you used to gird yourself and walk wherever you wished; but when you grow old, you will stretch out your hands and someone else will gird you and bring you where you do not wish to go’” (John 21:17-18).

God’s redemptive plan gives us hope for the future:

1. God’s Plan of Faithfulness to Restore:• Key Verse: “If we confess our sins, He is faithful and righteous to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness” (1 John 1:9). God’s bailout system ensures that repentance leads to restoration, no matter how far we’ve strayed.

2. God’s Plans for Redemption:• Key Verse: “For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope” (Jeremiah 29:11). Even when we feel lost, God’s plans for our lives remain good, and His grace redirects us toward them.

3. Grace Abounds:• Key Verse: “But where sin increased, grace abounded all the more” (Romans 5:20). No mistake or failure is too great for God’s grace to cover. His mercy is limitless.

God’s bailout system is not just a rescue operation but also a restoration and empowerment system. When we call on Him in faith and repentance, He doesn’t just bring us back to safety—He positions us for greater impact, just as He did with Jonah, the Prodigal Son, and Peter. What a Mighty God we serve!

“Lord,” Martha said to Jesus, if you had been here, my brother would not have died. But I know that even now God will give you whatever you ask.” John 11:21-22.

Have you ever had a situation that was critical? Imagine you’re at a hospital with a loved one who is critically ill. The doctor’s are doing all they can , but time is running out. You tell the doctor, If you’d made the diagnosis sooner, maybe this wouldn’t have happened.” But then, with a mix of hope and faith, you add, “I still believe that even now, if you have the right treatment, there’s a chance for healing.”

Just like Martha, we acknowledge the loss and the timing, yet we still hold on to the possibility that something miraculous could happen, even in a seemingly hopeless situation. Although, there will be times where we have earnestly prayed and hoped for transformation, but things still don’t turn out the way we hoped. But don’t loose heart! The Bible provides many scriptural references where Jesus provided hope in seemingly hopeless circumstances, much like Martha’s faith in John 11:21-22.

In Daniel 3:16-18 we witness “Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego were faced with the threat of being thrown into a blazing furnace, if they refused to bow down to the king’s idol.” In their response, they said: “If we are thrown into the blazing furnace, the God we serve is able to deliver us from it, and he will rescue us from your hand, O king. But even if he does not, we want you to know, your Majesty, that we will not serve your gods or worship the image of gold you have set up.” (Daniel 3:17-18)

These three men knew that God was capable of saving them, but they also expressed that their faith in God wasn’t contingent on the outcome. Even if God chose not to deliver them in the way they expected, their trust in His sovereignty remained intact. Their hope was in God’s greater plan. Martha’s too knew that there was a greater plan of Lazarus being raised on the day of resurrection, as stated in John 11:38-44, Jesus does eventually raise Lazarus from the dead. But before that miracle, Martha expressed her disappointment and faith: “But I know that even now God will give you whatever you ask.” (John 11:22). Jesus responds, telling her that her brother will rise again (John 11:23), and then He demonstrates His power over death by bringing Lazarus back to life.

This moment serves as a reminder that God’s timing and ways are often beyond our understanding. Even in situations where we feel hopeless, God can still work miracles—even after what seems like a loss. The key is to trust Him “even now” in the midst of our pain and unanswered prayers. God wants to grow our faith. Sometimes the words we speak will be tested. In Mark 9, a father brings his demon-possessed son to Jesus, and Jesus asks, “Everything is possible for one who believes.” The father responds with a vulnerable cry: “I do believe; help me overcome my unbelief!” (Mark 9:24).

This father had faith, but his faith was also mingled with doubt and sorrow from years of watching his son suffer. Yet Jesus responded to his cry, and the boy was healed. This teaches us that even when we struggle with doubts or when things don’t go as planned, God honors our faith and is still at work. The apostle Paul even experienced unanswered prayer. He prayed earnestly for God to remove a “thorn in the flesh”—a source of great personal pain. But God responded by telling him, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” (2 Corinthians 12:9). Despite Paul’s prayers, his request wasn’t granted in the way he expected either, but God used his weakness to demonstrate His power and grace.

Paul’s response was one of acceptance: “Therefore I will boast all the more gladly of my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may rest upon me.” (2 Corinthians 12:9). This reminds us that God’s purpose might not always align with our desires, but His grace is always enough to sustain us. You may have prayed earnestly for God to transform your marriage, as I have, and still faced the painful reality that it ended. It may feel as if your prayers went unanswered, or that God didn’t intervene the way you had hoped. But even now, God’s work is not finished in your life. There is still hope.

Even in the midst of disappointment, remember the faith of the three Hebrew boys: “But even if He does not…” (Daniel 3:18). Their hope wasn’t in a specific outcome but in God’s sovereignty. Similarly, Martha’s statement in John 11, “Even now…” acknowledges that, even after the death of Lazarus, God was still at work. And Jesus, through His resurrection power, can bring new life even after the darkest of situations.

God’s redemptive power works not only in the good times but especially in the times when we feel the weight of our loss. Even if the marriage didn’t transform the way you prayed for, God still has a plan for your future—a plan that might not be what you expected, but it’s one filled with His love, healing, and grace. As you continue to trust Him, you can hold onto the truth that, even now, God is able to work in your life and bring about transformation, healing, and new hope—no matter the season.

In His Service,

Carolyn

“Therefore the Lord waits to be gracious to you, and therefore he exalts himself to show mercy to you. For the Lord is a God of justice; blessed are all those who wait for him.” Isaiah 30:18.

In life, everyone faces challenges—personal struggles, financial difficulties, emotional turmoil, marital problems and even unexpected tragedies. Yet, the Bible teaches that despite these hardships, we are called to rise above our circumstances, trusting in God’s strength and guidance. This isn’t about denying the reality of pain or struggle, but about finding hope and purpose in the midst of it, knowing that God is with us.

Trusting in God’s Sovereignty helps us to rise above our circumstance and recognize that God is sovereign over everything. Even when we face adversity, betrayal, and hardship. He is still in control, working all things together for our good. Romans 8:28 says,“And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.” This reminds us that our struggles are not pointless. God uses them to shape us, refine us, and bring about His purposes.

We must lean in and draw from the Strength of Christ, especially when the weight of our circumstances feels unbearable, it’s easy to believe that we are too weak to rise above. But the Bible encourages us that through Christ, we can find strength to persevere. We must keep the faith and know that when we are at our weakest, in Him we are made strong. But he said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me. ¹⁰ That is why, for Christ’s sake, I delight in weaknesses, in insults, in hardships, in persecutions, in difficulties. For when I am weak, then I am strong. 2 Corinthians 12: 9-11.

This verse doesn’t promise an absence of difficulty but assures you and I that, with Christ’s help, we are equipped to face whatever comes our way. Philippians 4:13 declares, “I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength.”

As I press forward in faith my circumstances seem insurmountable, but the key to overcoming them is not to focus on the obstacles, but on the one who is with me through it all. Faith is not passive; it is active. We are called to press forward in hope, not to be defined by our current situation. In 2 Corinthians 4:8-9, the apostle Paul writes, “We are hard pressed on every side, but not crushed; perplexed, but not in despair; persecuted, but not abandoned; struck down, but not destroyed.” Here Paul reminds us that even when life feels overwhelming, we are not defeated. God sustains us, and we can continue moving forward.

Today, I rest in the Peace That Surpasses All Understanding in times of trial, although it seems elusive. Yet, God offers a peace that goes beyond human understanding, enabling me to rise above my circumstances with calm and confidence. Philippians 4:6-7 says, “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” When we bring our worries to God in prayer, He offers a peace that keeps our hearts steady, even when everything else seems unstable.

May the Lord strengthen each of us as we Hope in Him in the Midst of our various sufferings. When we place our hope in God, He renews our strength, enabling us to rise above our circumstances and persevere with endurance.

Finally, it’s essential to remember that rising above our circumstances isn’t about avoiding pain, but about finding hope in the midst of it. God promises to be with us always, offering us hope beyond what we see. Isaiah 40:31 says, “But those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.”

Remember, rising above our circumstances is not about ignoring difficulties but trusting that God is bigger than any problem we face. It’s about leaning into His promises, finding strength in Christ, and trusting that He is with us every step of the way. With God’s help, I’m able to face adversity with courage, knowing that He is working all things for my good and His glory. Psalm 34:19 assures us,“The righteous person may have many troubles, but the Lord delivers him from them all.” In closing, be encouraged that no matter the circumstances, you are not alone, and with God, you and I will rise above.

In His Service,

Carolyn

“Because he holds fast to me in love, I will deliver him; I will protect him, because he knows my name. When he calls to me, I will answer him; I will be with him in trouble; I will rescue him and honor him. With long life I will satisfy him and show him my salvation.” Psalm 91: 14-16.

According to scripture God’s promised word describes clearly what His will for our lives is. “This is the confidence that you and I have, when we ask anything according to His will, He hears us. And if we know He hears us— whatever we ask— we know that we have what we asked of Him.” 1 John 5:14-15.

Assured deliverance in Christ, in other words, is like an anchor in a storm. Though the waves rise and the winds howl, the anchor holds firm beneath the surface, grounding the ship and preventing it from being lost to the chaos. In the same way, Christ’s salvation keeps us steady, securing us with His promises. No matter how turbulent life becomes, we remain safe, held firmly in His unbreakable grip.

“Because of the Blood of my covenant with you, I will set your prisoner’s free from the waterless pit. Return to your stronghold, O prisoners of hope; today I declare that I will restore you double.” Zechariah 9:11-12.

As we navigate life and the many challenges it brings we can rest in the assurance that God deliverance is like a rescue rope dropped from a helicopter to someone stranded at sea. The waves may be high, and the ocean vast, but once they grasp that rope, they know they’re being lifted to safety. In the same way, God’s deliverance reaches us in our deepest struggles, and once we hold onto it, we are certain of rescue, no matter the depth of the waters around us.

Let us Pray!

Heavenly Father, “Restore us O God; let your face shine, that we may be saved!” Psalm 80:3

In Jesus Name, Amen.

As each one has received a gift, minister it to one another, as good stewards of the manifold grace of God.” (1 Peter 4:10 NKJV)

This verse teaches that every believer has received a gift from God and is called to use it to serve others. The “manifold” grace of God refers to its many forms and expressions, meaning grace is multi-faceted, showing up in diverse ways in the life of the church. The Manifold Grace of God in 1 Peter 4:10 speaks of the diversity of God’s grace and how it is distributed among believers for service.

As I introduce the Manifold Grace of God, there are several biblical principles I’d like to place emphasis on.

1. Understanding Grace and Gifts:

• Ephesians 2:8-9 teaches that salvation itself is a gift of grace. It’s important to understand that God’s grace is the foundation of everything a believer receives, including spiritual gifts.

• 1 Corinthians 12:4-6 shows that the same Spirit distributes different gifts. This underscores that the diversity of gifts comes from the same source: God’s grace.

2. Identifying Spiritual Gifts:

• All believers should be taught how to recognize their spiritual gifts and how to seek God in prayer and to begin serving where they feel led. Gifts often emerge through practical service and experiences.

• Romans 12:6-8 lists various gifts and encourages the believer to use them according to the grace given to them. This passage also can guide believers in exploring their various gifts.

3. Serving as Stewards of Grace:

• God’s Grace Teaches the principle of stewardship, meaning the gifts we receive are not for self-promotion but for serving others. We are only caretakers of God’s gifts and are responsible for using them in ways that honor Him (Matthew 25:14-30, the Parable of the Talents).

• As Believers we should be reminded that God equips us to be ministers and that each person’s contribution is vital for the body of Christ to thrive. (1 Corinthians 12:12-27).

4. Empowerment Through the Holy Spirit:

• The Holy Spirit empowers us to use our gifts effectively (Acts 1:8). As new believers are taught about spiritual gifts, they should be led into a deeper reliance on the Holy Spirit for guidance and strength. The Holy Spirit is the gift believers receive when they receive Christ and are baptized upon the confession of their faith.

In order to experience the Holy Spirit, more effectively you must rely on the study of God’s word, meditation and spending time in the LORD’s presence. Worship also invites the presence of God. The more you’re in the presence of God, His Spirit will rest upon you (Psalm 22:3)

Here are some pivotal ways the Manifold Grace of God Can Extend Believers into Greater Witnesses

1. Living as Examples of God’s Grace:

• By using our gifts, we become living testimonies of God’s grace. When new believers see older believers serve with joy and dedication, they witness grace in action. The call to serve, whether in hospitality, teaching, or administration, we can extend our witness to those who are still discovering their faith. (Matthew 5:16).

2. Equipping for Service:

• We are equipped for service in His presence and through the study of God’s word. Here is where we stay with God until we receive our marching orders. The Holy Spirit is our teacher and guides us into all truth as we study the word. Ephesians 4:11-13 explains that God gave apostles, prophets, evangelists, pastors, and teachers to equip the saints for the work of the ministry, for building up the body of Christ. As new believers grow in understanding their gifts, they can be equipped for different areas of ministry. By our example we too are able to help them become active participants in the work of the Kingdom.

3. Evangelism Through the Use of Gifts:

• Once Spiritual gifts are established they are tools for evangelism. For example, the gift of mercy can be used to extend God’s compassion to the hurting, leading people to Christ (Matthew 25:35-40). The gift of prophecy can reveal God’s truth and bring conviction to non-believers (1 Corinthians 14:24-25). As new believers learn to use their gifts, they become witnesses for Christ through their actions and words.

4. Encouraging Unity and Diversity in the Body of Christ:

• As new believers use their gifts, they will see the diversity and unity in the body of Christ. This will help them create an environment where every believer feels valued and important in the Kingdom’s mission (1 Corinthians 12:14-26). This mutual support and love will become a powerful witnessing tool to the body of Christ. (John 13:35)

5. Multiplying Ministry:

• In closing, when we all use our gifts, we can train and disciple others. Paul instructed Timothy to pass on what he had learned to faithful men who could teach others also (2 Timothy 2:2). This multiplication effect extends the witness of the Kingdom as more believers are equipped and sent out to minister and add to the body of Christ.

By emphasizing these biblical principles and encouraging believers to serve faithfully using their gifts, the manifold grace of God is put on display, not only building up the church but also expanding its witness to the world.

Let us Pray!

Heavenly Father,

Thank you for your Manifold Grace! Help us to remember the Gift of the Talents and to be mindful to put them to use for your Glory and the good of others. In Jesus Name! Amen.

“There is nothing concealed that will not be disclosed, or hidden that will not be made known. What you have said in the dark will be heard in the daylight, and what you have whispered in the ear in the inner rooms will be proclaimed from the roof.” Luke 12:2-3.7

Throughout scripture God has first revealed himself and His purpose for mankind. He has made Himself known through creation. In Romans 1:19-20 (NIV) “Since what may be known about God is plain to them, because God has made it plain to them. For since the creation of the world God’s invisible qualities—his eternal power and divine nature—have been clearly seen, being understood from what has been made, so that people are without excuse.”
His divine nature and power are evident here, revealing His existence throughout all creation. It clearly declares the glory of God!

God’s purpose for us according to Jeremiah 29:11 (NIV) “For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.”God reveals His purpose as one of hope, not harm, for humanity, demonstrating His desire to lead us toward a future aligned with His will. When we walk contrary to the will and purposes of God we find in Luke 12:2 that nothing is hidden before Him and ultimately everything done in the dark will be exposed by His light.

He admonishes us to walk in light as He is light “ For if we walk in the light as He is light , we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus, His Son, purifies us from all sin.” God reveals Himself fully through Jesus Christ, making His purpose for salvation and redemption known to humanity. 1 John 1:7 .

We have seen His glory, the glory of the one and only Son, who came from the Father, full of grace and truth when “The word became flesh and dwelt among us.” John 1:14. Through God’s great mercy and love for us, He wants us to purify our hearts and consider our motifs. We cannot attempt to hide sinful deeds in our hearts and act like God will not expose them, because eventually He will according to Luke 12:2-3. All of the jealousy, envy, malice, strife, bitterness, hatred, manipulation, control, gossip, backbiting, lying, adulterous ways, fornication, etc. God’s purification process (through the Blood of Jesus) must do away with it. The heart has to be good ground for the word of God to take root. That’s why “we must guard our heart with all diligence for out of it flows the issues of life.” Proverbs 4:23.

“Nothing in all creation is hidden from God’s sight. Everything is uncovered and laid bare before the eyes of him to whom we must give account.”
God sees all things, including the hidden thoughts and desires of the heart. Sinful acts and intentions will be revealed in due time. Hebrews 4:13

This will take place on the day when God judges people’s secrets through Jesus Christ, as His word declares.”God will one day reveal the hidden secrets of people’s hearts, and judgment will be based on that revelation. Romans 2:16

God is appealing to us to “consider our ways” Haggai 1:7. “The heart is deceitful above all things and beyond cure. Who can understand it?” according to Jeremiah 17:9. God is the only one who can reveal the sinful condition of the human heart, which leads people away from God’s will, often in hidden ways.

“For we all have sinned and fallen short of the glory of God.” Romans 3:23.
Humanity is in a state of sin, constantly falling short of God’s righteous standard, even when that sin is hidden or concealed. But God in His great mercy continues to pull at our heart strings by admonishing us to please consider our ways.

These scriptures affirm that God actively reveals His nature and His purposes for mankind, while humanity’s sinful tendencies often lead to hidden deeds and desires. Yet, these secret actions are known to God and will be fully revealed in time, bringing both judgment and redemption through His Son, Jesus Christ.

Let us pray.

Father, in your great mercy create in us clean hearts and renew the right spirit within us. Give us a hunger and thirst after righteousness that we may be filled. Search our hearts, if there is anything in our hearts that should not be, we pray that you will remove it now and lead us in the way of everlasting. In Jesus name we pray. Amen.

“Joyful in hope, patient in affliction, and faithful in prayer.” Romans 12:12

To be truly faithful in prayer means to approach God with a deep, unwavering trust in His character, promises, and timing, regardless of circumstances. It involves persistence, humility, and alignment with God’s will, seeking not just to present our own requests, but to be transformed by our communion with Him. 

**What It Means to Be Truly Faithful in Prayer**                                                             1. **Persistence in Prayer**:                                                                                    Faithfulness in prayer is marked by persistence. Jesus emphasized this in the parable of the persistent widow (Luke 18:1-8), where the widow kept coming to the unjust judge until he granted her request. Jesus used this to teach us to “always pray and not give up” (Luke 18:1). True faithfulness is not discouraged by delays or silence but continues to seek God earnestly.

2. **Trusting God’s Will**: Being truly faithful also means trusting that God’s will is better than our own desires. Jesus exemplified this in Gethsemane when He prayed, “Not my will, but Yours be done” (Luke 22:42). Faithful prayer submits our will to God’s, believing that He knows best.

3. **Praying with Humility**: A faithful prayer life acknowledges our dependence on God. The tax collector in Jesus’ parable (Luke 18:9-14) exemplified this humility when he prayed, “God, have mercy on me, a sinner.” God responds to prayers offered in humility, recognizing our need for His grace and guidance.

4. ** The Truth of God’s Word**: As we Align our prayers with the truth of God’s Word True faithfulness in prayer aligns our requests and desires with the truths and promises found in Scripture. When we pray according to God’s Word, we demonstrate faith in His promises, and our prayers are more likely to align with His will. “For this is the confidence that we have, if we ask anything according to His will, He not only hears us, but we know that we also have the petition that we asked of Him.”  James  5:14-15.  When we align ourselves with the will of God we can look for test that will follow our faithfulness in prayer. Scripture reveals that after seasons of faithful prayer, tests often follow to refine and strengthen our faith:

5.**The Test of Delay **: Will also be a common experience. This was demonstrated in the life of Abraham who prayed for a son, and God promised him descendants as numerous as the stars. However, the fulfillment of this promise was delayed for many years. During this time, Abraham’s faith was tested, and he had to trust God’s timing (Genesis 15:1-6).                 1.**Purpose:**                                                                                                             Example:** God uses delays to deepen our trust in His timing and to teach us patience and endure as a good soldier .

2. **The Test of Opposition**:
– **Example:** Nehemiah prayed for favor and success in rebuilding the walls of Jerusalem. He faced fierce opposition, yet remained faithful in prayer and action (Nehemiah 4:1-9).
– **Purpose:** Opposition tests our commitment to God’s purposes. It strengthens our resolve and dependence on God, preparing us to overcome challenges for His glory.

3. **The Test of Sacrifice**:
– **Example:** After years of waiting for Isaac, Abraham’s faith was tested when God asked him to sacrifice his promised son. Abraham’s willingness to obey demonstrated his ultimate trust in God, who provided a substitute sacrifice (Genesis 22:1-18).
– **Purpose:** God may test our willingness to sacrifice what we hold dear, teaching us that He is our ultimate provider and preparing us to trust Him more deeply.

4. **The Test of Silence**:
– **Example:** Job experienced profound silence from God despite his desperate prayers during his suffering. Yet, Job remained faithful, declaring, “Though He slay me, yet will I trust in Him” (Job 13:15).
– **Purpose:** Silence can test our faith in God’s presence and goodness. It purifies our motives, ensuring that we seek God for who He is, not just for what He can do.

**During these times God is using these test to transform our lives**
God uses these tests to purify our faith, draw us closer to Him, and prepare us for greater works in His Kingdom:

1.**Deepening Our Faith**: Through testing, our faith is refined like gold (1 Peter 1:6-7). We learn to trust God more deeply, even when circumstances are difficult or confusing.

2. **Building Endurance**: Tests develop perseverance, which strengthens our character and hope (James 1:2-4, Romans 5:3-5). This endurance is essential for fulfilling the greater works God has prepared for us to do.

3. **Preparing Us for Greater Works**: As we pass these tests, God entrusts us with greater responsibilities in His Kingdom. Jesus said, “He who is faithful in what is least is faithful also in much” (Luke 16:10). Our faithfulness in small things prepares us for greater service.

4. **Transforms Our Character**: Prayer and the tests that follow mold us into the likeness of Christ. We become more humble, patient, and loving—qualities necessary for Kingdom work (Romans 8:29).

As we become more truly faithful in prayer we will find it is  about more than just asking God for things—it’s about developing a deep, trusting relationship with Him that endures through testing. God uses these tests not to harm us, but to strengthen our faith, transform our character, and prepare us for the greater works He has planned for His Kingdom. As we remain faithful in prayer, we can trust that God is working all things together for the good of those who love Him and are called for His glory (Romans 8:28).

“Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not unto thy own understanding, in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.” Proverbs‬ ‭3‬:‭6‬ ‭NIV‬‬

When life presents situations that seem confusing, unfair, or overwhelming—when the “math” just isn’t “mathing”—it’s natural to seek out for understanding and comfort. The word of God offers many examples of people who faced such circumstances, yet found hope and resolution through their faith in Him. Here’s how we can spiritually navigate these situations, and draw hope from their stories:

1. Abraham’s Life: Trusting God’s Promises

• Situation: Abraham was promised by God that he would be the father of many nations, yet he and his wife Sarah were childless and advanced in age.
• Spiritual Response: Abraham believed in God’s promise despite his circumstances. In Romans 4:20-21, it is said, “He did not waver at the promise of God through unbelief, but was strengthened in faith, giving glory to God, and being fully convinced that what He had promised He was also able to perform.”
• Takeaway: When things don’t add up, trust in God’s promises. Even when circumstances seem impossible, God is faithful to fulfill His word.

2. Joseph’s Life: Seeing God’s Purpose in Trials

• Situation: Joseph was sold into slavery by his brothers, falsely accused, and imprisoned. It seemed like nothing in his life was going right.
• Spiritual Response: Joseph remained faithful to God through his trials. Eventually, he rose to power in Egypt and saved his family during a famine. He told his brothers, “But as for you, you meant evil against me; but God meant it for good” (Genesis 50:20).
• Takeaway: God can turn even the darkest situations into something good. When life doesn’t make sense, remember that God may be working behind the scenes to bring about a greater purpose.

3. The Shunammite Woman: Holding on to Faith

• Situation: The Shunammite woman was promised a son by the prophet Elisha. When the child later died, it seemed that her blessing had turned into a curse.
• Spiritual Response: The woman went to Elisha, trusting that God could restore what was lost. Her faith was rewarded when Elisha prayed, and her son was brought back to life (2 Kings 4:18-37).
• Takeaway: Even when God’s promises seem to fail, continue to trust Him. God can revive and restore what seems dead or hopeless.

4. Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego: Trusting God in the Fire

• Situation: These three men were thrown into a fiery furnace for refusing to worship a golden statue. It seemed like their faith would lead to their destruction.
• Spiritual Response: They declared, “Our God whom we serve is able to deliver us from the burning fiery furnace, and He will deliver us from your hand, O king. But if not, let it be known to you, O king, that we do not serve your gods” (Daniel 3:17-18).
• Takeaway: Trust God regardless of the outcome. Even in the midst of “the fire,” God is present and can deliver us, or use the situation to show His great glory.

5. Noah and the Ark: Obeying God Against All Odds

• Situation: Noah was instructed by God to build an ark in preparation for a flood, even though such a thing had never happened before. He faced ridicule and doubt from those around him.
• Spiritual Response: Noah obeyed God’s command, building the ark as instructed. His obedience saved his family and preserved life on earth (Genesis 6-9).
• Takeaway: When things don’t make sense, obey God’s instructions. Trusting in His wisdom rather than human understanding can lead to salvation and preservation.

How God Makes It All Make Sense

In each of these stories, the situations didn’t make sense from a human perspective, but God had a plan that was greater than what they could see at the moment. The common thread is faith—trusting in God’s character, promises, and sovereignty. These individuals didn’t always understand what God was doing, but they chose to believe that He was good and faithful. In time, God revealed His purposes and turned their confusing situations into testimonies of His power and grace.

Spiritual Takeaway

When the math of life doesn’t add up, lean on the truth that God is in control, His ways are higher than ours, and His timing is perfect. By studying these biblical examples and holding onto God’s promises, we can find hope and comfort even in the midst of uncertainty. As Proverbs 3:5-6 reminds us, “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct your paths.” May the Lord add a blessing to the hearers and doers of his word. In Jesus Name.