Author: Primary Contributor

“Blessed is the man who remains steadfast under trial, for when he has stood the test he will receive the crown of life, which God has promised to those who love him.” James 1:12

Resistance is an inevitable part of life, especially for those who seek to live according to God’s will. These “winds of resistance” come in many forms—spiritual warfare, personal struggles, opposition from others, or the internal battle between faith and doubt. Jesus warned us that we would face challenges, saying, “In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” (John 16:33). As believers, we must recognize that resistance is not a sign of failure but rather an opportunity for growth. The trials we face are meant to strengthen our faith, refine our character, and draw us closer to God.

Resistance helps define us by testing our endurance and shaping our spiritual maturity. Just as strong winds shape the tallest trees, adversity forces us to rely on God, deepening our trust in Him. Romans 5:3-4 reminds us, “We also glory in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope.” The difficulties we endure refine us like gold in fire (1 Peter 1:7), making us stronger and more steadfast in our faith. Rather than running from trials, we should embrace them as opportunities for God to mold us into the people He has called us to be.

James 1:12 declares, “Blessed is the man who remains steadfast under trial, for when he has stood the test he will receive the crown of life, which God has promised to those who love him.” This scripture reassures us that endurance is not in vain—God rewards those who remain faithful. The “crown of life” symbolizes eternal victory, a reward for those who persevere in faith despite hardships. It is a promise that the trials of this life are temporary, but the glory that awaits is everlasting (2 Corinthians 4:17). Our struggles are not meaningless; they are part of God’s divine plan to prepare us for an eternal inheritance.

As Christians, we must learn to stand firm against the winds of resistance, knowing that God is our strength. Isaiah 40:31 reminds us, “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.” God does not abandon us in our struggles—He walks with us, sustains us, and ultimately rewards those who remain steadfast. Therefore, when the winds of resistance blow against us, we must not fear or falter but press forward with unwavering faith, knowing that God’s promises are sure and His rewards are eternal.

Let us Pray! Heavenly Father, we come before You, acknowledging that the winds of resistance are often strong and unrelenting. Yet, we thank You for the promise that when we remain steadfast, You will strengthen us and lead us to victory. Lord, help us to see our trials not as obstacles but as opportunities to grow in faith and perseverance. Give us the courage to stand firm, the wisdom to trust in Your plan, and the endurance to walk through every challenge with confidence in Your unfailing love.

Father, when we feel weary, remind us that You are our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble. Lift us up when we stumble, and renew our hearts with hope, knowing that the crown of life awaits those who remain faithful. May we never waver in our devotion to You, but instead press on, fully trusting that You will bring us through every storm stronger and more refined.

Lord, let our lives be a testimony of Your grace and power. May we be a light to those around us, encouraging others to remain steadfast in their own trials. Strengthen our families, our communities, and our nation, that we may stand together in faith and righteousness. Above all, may our lives bring glory to You, our Rock and Redeemer. In Jesus’ mighty name, we pray. Amen.

”May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that by the power of the Holy Spirit you may abound in hope.” Roman 15:13

My Legacy: A Foundation of Faith and Empowerment. As I walk in my God-given purpose, my greatest desire is to leave behind a legacy of faith, strength, and empowerment for my daughters, grandchildren, and generations to come. In a world that is ever-changing, filled with deception, narcissism, and unfair democracy, my mission is to provide a strong biblical foundation through my Marital Women of Faith Ministry. This ministry is more than a calling—it is a movement designed to equip women with the spiritual, emotional, and practical tools they need to navigate life with wisdom, resilience, and unwavering faith.

Through Marital Women of Faith’s Podcast, Blogs, Humanitarian Work, Self-Care Coaching, and Self-Care Courses, I aim to inspire women to reclaim their identity in Christ, prioritize their well-being, and cultivate a life rooted in biblical truth. The challenges of this world can be overwhelming, but through faith-based teachings, encouragement, and practical self-care strategies, women can rise above toxic relationships, societal pressures, and personal struggles. I want my daughters and grandchildren to inherit not just words of wisdom, but a blueprint for living a life of purpose, integrity, and godly confidence. Proverbs 22:6 reminds us, “Train up a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not depart from it.” My prayer is that the foundation I build will guide my family and others in their spiritual walk for generations.

This legacy is not just for my family, but for all women seeking guidance in their marriages, homes, and personal journeys. Proverbs 31:25 says, “She is clothed with strength and dignity; she can laugh at the days to come.” This is the woman I want to inspire others to become—resilient, empowered, and rooted in faith. By providing resources, mentorship, and community support, I pray that my ministry will continue to uplift women long after my journey on this earth is complete. Titus 2:3-5 encourages older women to teach and guide younger women so that they may live wisely, love their families, and honor God in all they do. It is my responsibility to pass down biblical wisdom, ensuring that women are strengthened in their faith and prepared to stand firm in a world filled with challenges.

Ultimately, my greatest hope is that my work will plant seeds of transformation, healing, and spiritual revival in the lives of those I reach. As I dedicate my life to this mission, I entrust my legacy to God, knowing that He will continue to use it for His glory. Psalm 78:4 declares, “We will not hide them from their children; we will tell the next generation the praiseworthy deeds of the Lord, His power, and the wonders He has done.” May my daughters, grandchildren, and all who follow this path walk boldly in faith, knowing that they are called, equipped, and destined to shine as lights in a dark world where many have clearly rejected their love for mankind and Christ.

Heavenly Father,

Thank you for your great mercy and grace that has shielded and protected us as we navigate life’s challenges. Order our steps that we may be shining lights that will serve as Beacons of Hope for others. “Let your light so shine, that others may see your good works and glorify your Father in Heaven.” Matthew 5:16. In Jesus Name we pray. Amen

“Not everyone who says to Me, Lord, Lord, shall enter the kingdom of heaven, but he who does the will of My Father in heaven… Depart from Me, you who practice lawlessness.” Matthew 7:21-23.

“God does not need our good works, but our neighbors do.” A famous quote often recited by Martin Luther reminds us that when we fail as Christians to follow our God-given mandate to love and serve others, we neglect the very purpose for which we were created. While our good works do not earn us salvation—because we are saved by grace through faith (Ephesians 2:8-9)—they are the evidence of a transformed heart and a life devoted to God. James 2:17 warns, “Faith by itself, if it does not have works, is dead.” Our neighbors, families, and communities depend on our obedience to God’s command to do good, serve with love, and be a light in a dark world. When we refuse to act, we contribute to the suffering, injustice, and brokenness around us. Therefore, we must take seriously our calling to be the hands and feet of Christ, fulfilling His will by serving those in need and reflecting His love through our actions

From the beginning, God designed us to walk in good works as a reflection of His love and righteousness. Ephesians 2:10 declares, “For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand that we should walk in them.” This verse makes it clear that our purpose is not just to exist but to actively live in a way that honors God. Good works are not a means to earn salvation, but rather the evidence of a transformed life. When we embrace this calling, our homes, communities, and nation benefit from the light of Christ shining through us.

However, when individuals neglect their responsibility to do good, disorder and suffering follow. Proverbs 14:34 states, “Righteousness exalts a nation, but sin is a reproach to any people.” When people abandon godly principles, families become fractured, dishonesty spreads, and societies crumble under the weight of corruption and injustice. In our homes, the absence of love, patience, and service leads to broken relationships. In our cities and nations, when leaders and citizens fail to uphold justice and integrity, lawlessness prevails, and communities suffer from oppression, poverty, violence, and division.

Jesus emphasized the importance of good works as a witness to the world. In Matthew 5:16, He says, “Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven.” When believers commit to serving others, showing kindness, and standing for truth, they bring hope and restoration. God’s blessings follow those who walk in obedience, creating a ripple effect that strengthens families, builds healthy communities, and fosters peace within nations.

Ultimately, ignoring God’s call to good works leads to spiritual decay and divine judgment. James 4:17 warns, “Therefore, to him who knows to do good and does not do it, to him it is sin.” When we fail to act righteously, we not only harm ourselves but also those around us. The moral decline of a nation begins when its people turn away from God’s principles. However, if we return to the path of righteousness, God promises healing and restoration, as stated in 2 Chronicles 7:14: “If My people who are called by My name will humble themselves, and pray and seek My face, and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin and heal their land.” Now more than ever, we must commit ourselves to living out the good works God has prepared for us, by impacting our world for His glory.

Greater love has no man than this, than to lay down his life for a friend.” John 15:13.

When you truly know the LOVE of God, your life is transformed forever. God’s love is not just an emotional experience, it is a life-changing revelation that shifts our identity, self-worth, and how we relate to others throughout life. Unlike human love, which often comes with conditions and expectations, God’s love is unconditional, unwavering, and transformational.

When we compare Human’s Love to God’s Love the differences are immeasurable:

Human Love although (Conditional) are often based on feelings and circumstances but God’s Love (Unconditional) is Eternal and unchanging. (Jeremiah 31:3). Human love is given in exchange for something (approval, performance, beauty, or status) when God’s love is freely given, not earned (Ephesians 2:8-9). Human love can be withdrawn when disappointed or hurt but nothing can separate us from God’s love (Romans 8:38-39). Human love is often self-seeking or transactional, when God’s love is selfless, sacrificial, and pure (John 3:16). Human’s love can easily be broken by betrayal, failure, or imperfection, but the love of the Father remains even when we fail (2 Timothy 2:13). Human love often comes with strings attached, but God’s love is a firm foundation that cannot be shaken. When we embrace this truth, it transforms how we see ourselves and others.

God’s love is like the sun, constant, powerful, and sustaining. It gives warmth, light, and life, never ceasing to shine. Human love, on the other hand, is like a flashlight, it may work for a time, but it can run out of power, flicker, or be turned off. If we rely on human love alone, we will find ourselves in darkness when it fades. But if we live in the light of God’s love, we are never without His warmth, direction, or security. His love will always aluminate the path He has set before us.

When you know the true love of God, you won’t easily settle for counterfeit love, whether in relationships, friendships, or self-worth derived from human approval. Counterfeit love manipulates, controls, or demands something undeserving in return, while God’s love affirms, secures, and frees you to walk in the purpose He has ordained for your life.

The key to discerning real love from fake love is first understanding your identity in Christ: Here you will find your worth and realize you have always been more than enough.

1. You Are Deeply Loved. “See what great love the Father has lavished on us, that we should be called children of God!” (1 John 3:…

2. You Are Chosen and Accepted. “He chose us in Him before the creation of the world to be holy and blameless in His sight.” (Ephesians 1:4).

3. You Are Valued. “You are precious in My eyes, and honored, and I love you.” (Isaiah 43:4).

4. You Are Complete in Christ. “For in Him you have been made complete.” (Colossians 2:1…

5. You Are Secure in His Love. I have loved you with an everlasting love; I have drawn you with unfailing kindness.” (Jeremiah 31:3).

When you root your identity in God’s love, you won’t chase after love that demands you to prove your worth, compromise your values, or tolerate mistreatment. Instead, you will recognize that true love reflects God’s character patient, kind, faithful, and sacrificial (1 Corinthians 13:4-7).

I learned that seeking validation, approval, and acceptance from others, only leads to a feeling of emptiness. But Scripture reminds us that our worth is found in who God says we are, not in the shifting opinions of others. We don’t need to prove ourselves to again love and acceptance. “By grace you have been saved, through faith it is the gift of God, not by works.” (Ephesians 2:8-9).

We don’t need to fear rejection: “Though my father and mother forsake me, the Lord will receive me.”(Psalm 27:10). Again, we should not be chasers of love. “We love because He first loved us.” (1 John 4:19). God’s love fills every void, heals past wounds, and prevents us from seeking fulfillment in the wrong places. When you live in the fullness of His love, you are free from the need to perform for approval, settle for less, or compromise your God-given identity.

Knowing God’s love is the foundation for a transformed life. It heals, secures, and empowers you to walk in confidence, knowing that you are fully known and fully loved and more than enough. You must get this deep down in your spirit. It protects you from counterfeit love, renews your sense of worth, and enables you to extend genuine love to others.

By anchoring yourself in God’s love, you will no longer seek from people what only God can provide. One day you’ll look back and truly realize, that the things you once worried about, today doesn’t even matter. Instead, you will live in the authentic overflow of His love, walking in joy, peace, and ultimately your God-given purpose!

“Look carefully then how you walk, not as unwise, but as wise, making the best use of your time, because the days are evil.” (Ephesians 5:15-16)

Productivity is more than just getting things done— its about using our God-given time, talents, and resources effectively to fulfill His purpose. The Bible encourages us to be diligent, wise, and fruitful in our work, showing that productivity is a reflection of stewardship and faithfulness.

Imagine a farmer who has a large field. If he simply stares at the land and waits for crops to grow, nothing will happen. But if he diligently plows the soil, sows seeds, waters them, and removes weeds, he will reap a great harvest in due season. Productivity in life works the same way. God gives us opportunities, but we must put in effort, stay disciplined, and trust Him for the results.

The Parable of the Talents (Matthew 25:14-30). Jesus told a story about a master who entrusted his servants with talents (a form of money). Two of them invested and multiplied what they were given, but one buried his talent out of fear. The master praised the productive servants but called the unproductive one a wicked and lazy servant.

A productive life is like a flowing river. A river that moves carries life, providing water for plants, animals, and people. But a stagnant body of water becomes polluted and lifeless. Likewise, when we actively use our time, energy, and talents for God’s glory, we bring life and growth to those around us. But if we remain idle, we become unfruitful.

God expects us to use our gifts, resources, and opportunities wisely. Productivity is our way of honoring God. “Lazy hands make for poverty, but diligent hands bring wealth. He who gathers crops in the summer is a prudent son, but he who sleeps during harvest is a disgraceful son.” (Proverbs 10:4-5).

Hard work and discipline lead to success, while laziness results in missed opportunities. Productivity is about preparing for the future and making the most of each season. Let us work as unto the Lord “Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters, since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving.” (Colossians 3:23-24).

Productivity is not just about personal gain but about serving God with excellence. When we work with purpose, diligence, and integrity, we honor God.

Productivity is a biblical principle that reflects stewardship, faithfulness, and diligence. Whether through the parable of the talents, Proverbs’ wisdom on diligence, or Paul’s encouragement to work wholeheartedly, Scripture teaches us that being productive is not just about being busy — it’s about making the most of what God has given us to impact the world for His glory.

May the Lord bless the works of our hands as we strive to use our gift and talents to build His kingdom and glorify His name. In Jesus Name. Amen.

“For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.” Ephesians 2:10.

The concept of being created for a purpose is woven throughout Scripture, with many biblical examples illustrating how God calls us as believers to fulfill unique roles, often revealed through challenges or unexpected circumstances.

In Genesis 37–50, Joseph’s life reflects God’s purposeful design amidst suffering. Though sold into slavery by his brothers and unjustly imprisoned in Egypt, Joseph later rose to become second in command under Pharaoh. He ultimately saved countless lives during a famine, including his own family. Joseph’s declaration in Genesis 50:20 encapsulates the concept of divine purpose: “You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good to accomplish what is now being done, the saving of many lives.”

Here we can see a valuable Lesson: Even when life seems chaotic, God is orchestrating events for His greater plan. Joseph’s hardships prepared him to lead with wisdom, humility, and grace.

Esther was also created for “Such a Time as This” The story of Esther (Book of Esther) highlights how God strategically places individuals to fulfill His purpose. As queen, Esther risked her life to save the Jewish people from genocide. Mordecai, her cousin, reminded her of her unique role, saying, “And who knows but that you have come to your royal position for such a time as this?” (Esther 4:14).

The Lesson outlined here: God’s purpose for our lives may require courage and sacrifice. Esther’s position and influence were not accidental—they were part of God’s divine plan.

Moses on the other hand was Called Through Weakness. Moses’ life in Exodus shows that God uses even reluctant and flawed individuals for His purposes. Though Moses initially doubted his ability to lead Israel out of slavery, God empowered him, saying, “I will be with you” (Exodus 3:12).

Our weaknesses or perceived inadequacies do not disqualify us from God’s purpose. Instead, they magnify His power and glory when we trust Him. Moses’ hardships—his time in Pharaoh’s palace, exile in Midian, and leadership challenges—equipped him to lead God’s people.

David, also had a purpose beyond expectations. He was a shepherd boy, overlooked even by his own family, yet God saw in him a king. In 1 Samuel 16:7, God told Samuel, “The Lord does not look at the things people look at. People look at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart.” Despite his humble beginnings and the challenges he faced, including being pursued by King Saul, David became a man after God’s own heart (Acts 13:22) and fulfilled his purpose as Israel’s greatest king.

Lesson: God’s purpose often defies human expectations. He uses ordinary people in extraordinary ways, focusing on the heart rather than external qualifications.

The apostle Paul, formerly Saul, redeemed from a broken past. He persecuted Christians before his dramatic encounter with Jesus on the road to Damascus (Acts 9). After his conversion, Paul became one of the most influential figures in Christianity, spreading the gospel across the Roman Empire and writing much of the New Testament.

Paul later wrote in Romans 8:28, “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.” His past, though sinful, was redeemed by God to testify of His grace and power. Lesson: No matter how broken or misguided our past may seem, God can transform it into a testimony of His glory and purpose.

Jesus Christ Himself is the ultimate example of living out a created purpose. In John 6:38, He said, “For I have come down from heaven not to do my will but to do the will of him who sent me.” His purpose was to redeem humanity through His death and resurrection, fulfilling God’s plan of salvation.

Even Jesus’ hardships—temptation, rejection, suffering, and death—were part of fulfilling His divine mission. Hebrews 12:2 reminds us to fix our eyes on Jesus, “who for the joy set before him endured the cross.” Lesson: Purpose is often linked to self-sacrifice and service. Jesus’ life demonstrates that true purpose is found in obedience to God and serving others.

From these examples, we see a consistent theme: God designs each person with a unique purpose, often revealed through challenges, detours, and growth. Whether through Joseph’s trials, Esther’s courage, Moses’ doubts, David’s humility, Paul’s transformation, or Jesus’ sacrifice, the Bible teaches us that our created purpose is not only about achieving personal fulfillment but also about advancing God’s kingdom.

Our role is to trust God, remain faithful, and allow Him to use every season of life—joyful or painful—to shape us for the good works He has prepared in advance for us to do.

“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