Month: April 2024

“You yourselves like living stones are being built up as a spiritual house, to be a Holy Priesthood, to offer spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God through Jesus Christ.” 1 Peter 2:5

The sound of crashing buildings with bricks toppled one on top of the other, in a demolition awakened me from my evening nap. As I watched the news, neighborhoods were having old abandoned buildings torn down to prevent gang and drug activity in their area. The overwhelming support for the neighborhood brought some residents to tears. They long awaited for that day to arrive. What happened? What brought this neighborhood to its current state? As I looked around and observed the vandalism and abandoned buildings, I imagined the previous residents who perhaps occupied those homes at one time. Surely, there were working and thriving families just like the ones we see today.

The need to rebuild I’ve found comes in many different forms. Whether it’s a run-down neighborhood, a decline in one’s health, an unfaithful spouse, the loss of a loved one, or an addict hiding in shame from addiction. Perhaps you’re reeling over the lost years in a marriage that didn’t last or maybe even a dead-end job. The need to rebuild comes at us in many different directions. We must assess our damages, survey our losses, and see if anything can be salvaged. No matter what has led to this moment, God’s word sheds some light on why it’s important to rebuild in Nehemiah 1:3 “And they said to me, The remnant there in the province who had survived the exile is in great trouble and shame. The wall of Jerusalem is broken down, and its gates are destroyed by fire.” A city with broken walls revealed a defeated people. The returning Jews were not only humiliated but forced to live in unsafe conditions without protection.

In Nehemiah 2:17, He spoke with the Jewish leaders “You see the trouble we are in: Jerusalem lies in ruins, and its gates have been burned with fire. Come, let us rebuild the wall of Jerusalem, and we will no longer be in disgrace.” When the enemy attacks our lives and brings destruction, shame, and disgrace God always has a plan of restoration for His children. When the wall of Jerusalem was rebuilt this sent a message to their enemies that God’s blessings were once again with them. This is how God also reminds us of His faithfulness “If you return and obey my commands, then even the exiled people from the farthest horizon, I’ll gather them from there and bring them to a place I have chosen as a dwelling for my name.” Nehemiah 1:9.

When life for us has unraveled and we are left to pick up the pieces, whether by our own sin, disobedience, or someone else’s, our loving God wants to restore us! When we genuinely confess our sins and repent “Instead of your shame there shall be a double portion; instead of dishonor they shall rejoice in their lot; therefore in their land they shall possess a double portion; they shall have everlasting joy! Isaiah 61:7.

 “You are not your circumstances. You are your possibilities.  If you know that, you can do anything.” Oprah Winfrey

When feeling defeated, it’s essential to first acknowledge and accept your emotions. If they are not consistent with what the word of God says about you, then ask yourself one question. Who told you that you were defeated? My friend, you must know without a doubt, there is no failure in God. Allow yourself to feel what you’re feeling without judgment. Next, turn to sources of support, the word of God, friends, family, or a faith community. As we look over our previous steps, perhaps we can find something that we omitted in error or simply didn’t see. Here is where I find the scriptures to be helpful in steering me back on track. Ephesians 5:15-17 reminds us to :See then that ye walk accurately, not as fools, but as wise. Redeeming the time, because the days are evil. Wherefore be not unwise, but understanding what the will of the Lord is.”

Sharing your struggles with others can provide comfort and a clearer perspective. Life may be tough right now, but let me encourage you! In 1 Samuel 30:6. “David was greatly distressed because the men were talking of stoning him; each one was bitter in spirit because of his sons and daughters. But David found strength in the LORD his God.”

Life right now might be hard for you, but know God is in control of the situation. Never fear because God is greater than the world. When a Christian is dealing with struggles in life it’s not to defeat us, but make us stronger. We use these times to grow in Christ and build our relationship with him.

Encouragement is a cornerstone of the Christian faith, emphasized throughout the Bible. In 1 Thessalonians 5:11, believers are urged to “encourage one another and build each other up.” This verse underscores the importance of uplifting and supporting fellow Christians in their journey of faith. Additionally, Hebrews 10:24-25 admonishes believers to “spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another.” Here, the act of encouragement is portrayed as essential for fostering a community of love and righteousness among believers.

Moreover, the scriptures highlight God’s role as the ultimate source of encouragement. Romans 15:5 describes God as the “God who gives endurance and encouragement,” reinforcing the idea that believers can find strength and inspiration in their relationship with Him. Similarly, 2 Corinthians 1:3-4 affirms that God is the “Father of compassion and the God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves receive from God.” This passage underscores the interconnectedness of receiving God’s comfort and extending it to others, illustrating the transformative power of encouragement within the Christian community.

It can also be helpful when we reflect on past challenges that we’ve overcome and remind ourselves of our resilience. I love to draw strength from inspirational stories or scriptures that resonate with me. Taking practical steps to address the source of my defeat, breaking down overwhelming tasks into smaller, manageable steps. Finally, I try to remember to be patient and kind to myself. Healing and progress take time, and setbacks are a natural part of life. Trust that with perseverance and support, you can rise above feelings your feelings of defeat and find renewed hope and purpose.

Remember, feeling defeated is a common human experience, but rely on the validity of God’s word to provide encouragement and strength during such times. In Isaiah 41:10, God reassures us, saying, “So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.” This verse reminds us that we are not alone in our struggles, and God is always there to support and empower us throughout our journey.

Similarly, in Philippians 4:13, the apostle Paul declares, “I can do all this through him who gives me strength.” This verse serves as a powerful reminder that our strength comes from God, and with His help, we can overcome any obstacle or challenge that we face. Finally, in Romans 8:37, we are reminded that “in all these things we are more than conquerors through Him who loves us.” This verse assures us that not only can we endure difficult times, but we can emerge victorious, strengthened by the love and grace of God.

In closing, seek solace in activities that bring you joy and relaxation, such as hobbies, exercise, reading, listening to music or spending time in nature.

“Forget the former things; do not dwell on the past. See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it? I am making a way in the wilderness and streams in the wasteland.” Isaiah 43: 18-19 (NIV).

How many of you know letting go can sometimes be tough, but in the book of Isaiah we are reminded that God wants us to let go of the yesterdays to see the new things He has in store for us today! When people or relationships have a way of disappointing us, I remind myself of Jesus and Joseph’s story. They both suffered betrayal and great disappointment from those closest to them. If we are all honest, we all have been betrayed in some form or another.

Jesus endured excruciating physical and emotional pain on the cross, a sacrifice depicted in Isaiah 53:5. “But he was pierced for our transgressions, he was crushed for our iniquities; the punishment that brought us peace was on him, and by his stripes, we are healed.” This verse encapsulates the depth of suffering Jesus willingly embraced for humanity’s sake. His crucifixion, as depicted in Luke 23:33-34, reveals Jesus praying for forgiveness for those crucifying him, demonstrating his divine love and compassion even amidst agony: “Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing.” This act of forgiveness amid suffering exemplifies the redemptive nature of Jesus’ sacrifice, offering salvation to all who believe in him, as emphasized in John 3:16, “For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.” Through his pain and death on the cross, Jesus provided redemption for all mankind, offering a path to salvation and reconciliation with God.

Joseph’s journey was also one of pain and redemption. It poignantly captured how he was sold into slavery by his own brothers, Joseph faced years of hardship and injustice. Yet, through divine providence, he rose to become a powerful ruler in Egypt. In Genesis 50:20, Joseph reflects on his tumultuous past, declaring, “You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good to accomplish what is now being done, the saving of many lives.” This verse encapsulates Joseph’s recognition of God’s sovereignty over his suffering and his ultimate purpose in preserving his family. Despite enduring betrayal, false accusations, and imprisonment, Joseph’s steadfast faith and obedience to God’s plan led to the salvation of his family during the famine. His forgiveness toward his brothers, as seen in Genesis 45:5, demonstrates his ability to overcome personal pain for the greater good: “And now, do not be distressed and do not be angry with yourselves for selling me here, because it was to save lives that God sent me ahead of you.” Through Joseph’s story, we witness how God can use even the most painful circumstances for His redemptive purposes, bringing hope and salvation to those who trust Him.

Through my own story of betrayal and pain, God has also assured me according to Romans 8:28 “All things are working together for the good of those that love the Lord and are called according to His purpose.” I believe God will use my story to bring hope and healing to countless others, providing them with my own unique perspective, a deeper empathy, and a greater spirit of resilience that will allow me to connect with and uplift those who are also hurting.

Father,

May you grant me the grace to overcome my personal pain for the greater good just as Joseph! In Jesus Name! Amen.

“Instead of your shame you will receive a double portion, and instead of disgrace, you will rejoice in your inheritance. And so you will inherit a double portion in your land, and everlasting joy will be yours.” Isaiah 61:7

The concept of God repaying twice what was lost is mentioned in Isaiah 61:7. In this verse the prophet Isaiah is speaking to the people of Israel, assuring them that despite their past shame and disgrace, God will restore them and bless them abundantly. The promise of a double portion signifies restoration and an increase or multiplication of blessings beyond what was lost. It’s a message of hope, redemption, and God’s faithfulness to His people.

Wow, look at how God reassures his chosen people! As I meditated on this and other scriptures, I, too, am reminded of God’s faithfulness and how these passages apply also to my life. According to Mark 11:24 “Therefore I tell you, whatever you ask in prayer, believe that you have received it, and it will be yours!” I don’t know about you, but I stretch my faith and believe God, for this “Double Portion” blessing!

“And after you have suffered a little while, the God of all grace, who has called you to His eternal glory in Christ, will Himself, restore, confirm, strengthen, and establish you.” 1 Peter 5:10. Our Amazing God knows how long and how much we can bear. When He says to his children, He will personally do these four things we can confidently find rest! Knowing we can look forward to the fulfillment and manifestation of His word to come to pass in our lives. The Benefits of the blessing included:

1. Restore: This promise suggests that God will bring us to a state of wholeness or completeness. It implies renewal or rejuvenation for us after a difficulty or trial. When believers face challenges or setbacks, God promises to restore us, bringing us back to a place of spiritual and emotional well-being.
2. Confirm: This promise indicates that God will affirm or establish the believer’s identity and purpose in Him. It implies a strengthening of faith and confidence in His promises. When believers face doubts or uncertainties, God promises to confirm our faith, by reinforcing our beliefs and convictions.
3. Strengthen: This promise assures believers that God will empower us with inner strength to endure these challenges and difficulties. It suggests fortifying the believer’s resolve and resilience in, the face of adversity. When believers feel weak or weary, God promises to strengthen us, by providing us with, the courage and endurance to persevere.
4. Establish: This promise signifies that God will firmly ground or establish us in our faith and relationship with Him. It implies a solid foundation and a sense of rootedness in God’s love and truth. When we encounter instability or uncertainty, God promises to build us up, ensuring that our faith remains steadfast and unwavering.

Overall, these promises in 1 Peter 5:10 offer us, as believers hope, assurance, and support during our journey of faith, reminding us of God’s faithfulness and care for His people, even when the outcome of His word appears to be the total opposite of what we have envisioned that promise to be. So remember, “We walk by faith and not by sight.” 2 Corinthians 5:7. We must trust God’s ultimate plan for the outcome of our lives! According to Jeremiah 29:11, He holds the key “For I know the plans I have for you sayeth the Lord, plans to prosper you and not harm you, plans to give you a future and a hope.”

In His Service,

Carolyn