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The Fall of Man

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The Biblical account of the Fall of Man is a pivotal narrative that unveils the origin of human sin and suffering, while simultaneously illuminating the necessity of divine redemption. In this blog, we will delve into the story of Adam and Eve, the ramifications of original sin, and the enduring relevance of the human condition.

The Story of Adam and Eve

In the idyllic setting of the Garden of Eden, God created Adam and Eve, the first humans, to live in perfect communion with Him and with each other. However, this harmonious existence was disrupted when a cunning serpent tempted Eve to disobey God’s command not to eat from the tree of the knowledge of good and evil (Genesis 3:1-5). Succumbing to the serpent’s deception, both Adam and Eve partook of the forbidden fruit, forever altering the course of human history.

Original Sin and its Consequences

The disobedience of Adam and Eve marked the entrance of sin into the world – a tragic event known as the Fall. This original sin introduced a myriad of consequences for humanity, including separation from God, physical and spiritual death, and the introduction of toil, pain, and conflict into human existence (Genesis 3:16-19). The Fall distorted God’s divine design for creation, leaving a legacy of brokenness that has persisted throughout human history.

The Human Condition and Need for Redemption

The story of the Fall of Man offers a profound diagnosis of the human condition, revealing the pervasive impact of sin on our lives and relationships. Our shared inclination towards sin and disobedience elucidates the necessity of divine intervention and redemption. Despite the gravity of our predicament, the Biblical narrative points to a ray of hope – the promise of a Redeemer who will conquer sin and restore humanity’s broken relationship with God (Genesis 3:15).

In conclusion, the Fall of Man is a poignant tale that exposes the devastating consequences of sin, while simultaneously unveiling God’s redemptive plan for humanity. As we grapple with the ongoing effects of the Fall, may we find solace in the divine promise of redemption and restoration that endures throughout the ages.

Creation

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The concept of creation holds profound significance within the Christian faith, as it reveals God’s divine plan, His love for humanity, and our responsibility for the world we inhabit. This article will delve into the Biblical account of creation, the significance of humanity’s creation in God’s image, and the importance of stewardship of the earth.

Biblical Account of Creation

The first two chapters of Genesis present the Biblical narrative of creation, wherein God brings forth the universe and all life within it. Over the course of six days, God speaks the world into existence, culminating in His most exceptional creation – humanity. This account establishes God as the source of all life and the sovereign Lord over creation.

Humanity Created in the Image of God

A crucial aspect of the creation narrative is the revelation that humanity was created in the “image of God” (Genesis 1:27). This divine imprint upon humankind bestows inherent dignity, value, and purpose. As image-bearers, we are called to reflect God’s character through our thoughts, actions, and relationships, serving as stewards of His divine presence on Earth.

Stewardship of the Earth

The responsibility of stewardship emerges from the creation mandate, where God entrusts humanity to “rule over the fish in the sea and the birds in the sky, over the livestock and all the wild animals, and over all the creatures that move along the ground” (Genesis 1:26). This divine commission calls us to care for the natural world, promoting its flourishing and well-being as a testament to God’s creative work.

Caring for the earth involves responsible use of resources, environmental preservation, and fostering a sustainable relationship between humanity and the natural world. By honoring the divine trust placed upon us, we affirm the intrinsic value of creation and contribute to the divine purpose of God’s redemptive plan.

In conclusion, the Biblical account of creation underscores the majesty of God, the sacredness of human life, and our responsibility as stewards of the earth. As we contemplate the grand design of creation, may we be inspired to live in harmony with God’s purpose, honoring His divine imprint within us and cherishing the world He has entrusted to our care.

The Nature of God

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The nature of God is a vast and profound subject that has captivated the hearts and minds of believers and theologians throughout history. In this article, we will explore some of the key aspects of God’s nature, including Monotheism, the Trinity, and the Attributes of God.

Monotheism: Belief in One God

Monotheism is the foundational belief in a single, all-powerful deity. Christians, along with other major world religions such as Judaism and Islam, affirm the existence of one sovereign God who created the universe and continues to sustain it. This conviction in a single divine being shapes our understanding of God’s authority, sovereignty, and role in human history.

The Trinity: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit

Central to the Christian faith is the doctrine of the Trinity, which maintains that God exists as three distinct persons – Father, Son, and Holy Spirit – while remaining one unified divine being. Each person of the Trinity is equally divine, yet they fulfill different roles within the Godhead. This mysterious and awe-inspiring aspect of God’s nature reveals the divine essence as inherently relational and communal.

  1. God the Father: The first person of the Trinity, often associated with creation, providence, and divine authority.
  2. God the Son (Jesus Christ): The second person of the Trinity, who became incarnate as a human being to redeem and reconcile humanity to God.
  3. God the Holy Spirit: The third person of the Trinity, who indwells believers, empowers them for service, and guides them into truth.

Attributes of God

God’s attributes describe the essential characteristics and qualities that define His divine nature. Though not an exhaustive list, the following attributes provide a glimpse into the majesty and holiness of God:

  1. Omnipotent: God possesses unlimited power and authority over creation. Nothing is impossible for Him (Luke 1:37).
  2. Omniscient: God has infinite knowledge and wisdom, knowing all things past, present, and future (Psalm 139:1-6).
  3. Omnipresent: God is everywhere present, transcending space and time. There is no place where He is not (Jeremiah 23:23-24).
  4. Loving: God’s love is unfailing, sacrificial, and eternal (1 John 4:8).
  5. Just: God is righteous and fair, upholding moral order and enacting justice (Deuteronomy 32:4).
  6. Holy: God is absolutely pure, perfect, and set apart from all sin (Isaiah 6:3).

In conclusion, the nature of God encompasses a rich and diverse array of facets, from the unity of His being to the intricacies of His divine attributes. As we grow in our understanding of God, we are inspired to worship Him with reverence, awe, and gratitude, allowing His divine nature to shape and transform our lives.

I SAW JESUS IN MY DREAM!

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I DONT KNOW WHERE TO START OR HOW TO START. I WILL STILL TRY!

I SAW JESUS! I KNOW HE IS THE ONE, BEYOND ANY DOUBT, I KNOW ITS HIM, IT CANT BE ANYONE ELSE.

Background

I am in my late 30s, brought up in a Catholic home where the name of Jesus was not new to me. I came to know the Lord when I was 21. There have been times when I’ve been passionate about my faith and other times when I’ve been lukewarm. Even at my worst, God was with me. I’ve had a few supernatural experiences myself. Many theologians have counseled me, providing strong explanations for God’s existence. Despite this, I often heard a voice asking, “What if all that I know is not real?” This doubt would drag me back to square one. Although I defend God, inside, there was always the fear, “What if I am imagining all this?”

Stage

I had the worst day of my life on May 21, 2024. I was shattered, heartbroken, and contemplating suicide. I’m afraid of suicide because it is considered an unforgivable sin, and I didn’t want to go to Hell. You see, I am 99.99% sure that I believe in God, Heaven, and Hell. I was asking God to let me die in an accident because I didn’t want to continue living. I felt like a total failure. With a heavy heart, I went to sleep, exhausted both physically and emotionally.

Dream

In my dream, I was in Hell. It wasn’t a fiery place with scenes of torture as I had imagined. Instead, it was like a dark cave, poorly lit. The room was filled with 30 or 40 people, all destined to spend eternity there. I saw Jesus there. He was the most humane person I have ever seen. Until then, I had heard that Jesus would come as a light or a warrior with a sword. But here, He was gentle and not intimidating. He was slender with a dark complexion and a sharp, straight nose. His eyes were the definition of grace. Even though He was not intimidating, I couldn’t look into His eyes for more than a fraction of a second. I looked here and there but never managed to maintain eye contact with Him. I approached Him and asked, “Father, why are You here?” Although He is the Son of God, I have always called Jesus “Father.”

He replied, “To rescue us all!” His face showed genuine concern, very serious, very sad, with a desperation to save. I said, “You did it already 2,000 years ago,” referring to His crucifixion and resurrection. He said, “It’s happening now, happened before, and will continue to happen.” He mentioned the present first, then the past, and future. We are used to past, present, and future, so I didn’t understand why He said it in that order.

That’s all. Preachers have painted a very scary picture of Judgment Day and Hell. In fact, I am scared to read the book of Revelation.

Aftermath

There is a 99.99% chance that it was just a dream, but what it did to me was supernatural. More than anything, I have seen my Savior. The image I had of Him is completely gone except for the few details I mentioned. I am contemplating what happened. My 99.99% belief became 100%. I am completely convinced He is real. I had a core unaddressed issue: I needed an image of God to feel connected. I was told it was a sin to seek an image of God because He is too majestic. The portrait of Jesus I had seen in the Catholic church was the image of God I had earlier aligned with—a fair person with long hair and a beard, showing His hand and bleeding heart. But the Jesus I saw in my dream was nothing like that. I was excited to share it with my sister Jebi and her husband JS. When I shared, they were more excited than me. They encouraged me to pursue this. I believe with certainty that God brought them into my life when I needed them the most.

What It Did to Me

I can see Him when I pray with my eyes closed. I might forget everything about His appearance, but the grace in His eyes encourages me to pray and hold on to Him. I was confused about what would happen when I die—whether I would remain dead until Jesus’ second coming or be immediately taken to judgment and sent to Heaven or Hell. I believe I got answers for that. We see time from our perspective, but God’s timeline is beyond our understanding. JS explained Chronos and Kairos, which gave me a perspective I had in mind for a long time. It also made sense why Jesus described the present first. Listening to the song “Jesus Loves Me, This I Know” fills me with joy. The enemy comes to steal, kill, and destroy, but God has filled me with joy that the enemy can never steal.

Revisiting the Dream(23/05/24)

I couldn’t get enough of the experience. I wanted to experience more of it. And I was hoping to see Jesus again yesterday 22/05/24. But he didn’t. There was a sense of emptiness that no one could fill. Infact I had dream so bad that I am ashamed to share. And it was a nightmare, Jesus woke me up before I committed a sin in my dream. I wanted to forget the yesterday. I couldn’t believe that I could have the Sweetest Dream one day and Have a Shameful Dream the next day. I still woke up with a comfort that God stopped me before I committed anything wrong. But this puts me back in square one. I was in my lowest. I played my favourite song. Jesus Loves me this I know. I started singing it to my hearts content. God encouraged me, I failed again so what? Count all your blessings. I was happy. Instead of focusing on bad, let my focus be on the Holy. 

Reorientation of my Focus on Jesus

I revisited my dream. I tried to understand more what it could mean. I felt like a curious kid. Why were we in hell, why me? Obviously I knew the reason. If we were already sent to hell, why Jesus came to rescue us? Does it mean there is still a way for us? And why He stressed so much on present. What it could mean. Does he mean, the present is more critical? I don’t have an answer yet.

Another thing I missed out to mention earlier. When I already know it was Jesus. I asked Him if he is… Before I completed, He said ‘I am’. Though I am convinced that my belief is true. I had a doubt. The Jesus in Bible always answers with a question. That wasn’t the case with me. He answered with simple answers. Why? Could it all be my imagination. I had this doubt and when I was writing this. The Holy Spirit reminded me this John 16:25-27 “I have spoken of these matters in figures of speech, but soon I will stop speaking figuratively and will tell you plainly all about the Father. Then you will ask in my name. I’m not saying I will ask the Father on your behalf, for the Father himself loves you dearly because you love me and believe that I came from God.

JESUS IS THE KNOWN WAY TO GOD! 

Deliverance

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“Father God, please guide me as I write this article based on Your Word. Help me to write this to glorify You, and let Your words bring clarity to those who seek You. May Your truth help people discern and embrace correct beliefs. I pray and seek everything in the name of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. Amen.”

Hi there fellow believers in Christ!

Diving in

Deliverance, an integral yet often overlooked aspect of the Christian faith, pertains to the liberation of individuals from the oppressive grip of evil spirits, negative influences, and spiritual bondage. In essence, deliverance seeks to restore God’s divine order and freedom within a person’s life, empowering them to walk unhindered in their faith journey.

Deliverance: A Biblical Perspective

Scripture provides numerous examples of deliverance in action, illustrating its enduring relevance for believers today. In Luke 4:18-19 (NLT), Jesus declares His mission: “The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, for he has anointed me to bring Good News to the poor. He has sent me to proclaim that captives will be released, that the blind will see, that the oppressed will be set free, and that the time of the Lord’s favor has come.” As the ultimate Deliverer, Jesus’s earthly ministry exemplified the power of spiritual freedom, as He cast out demons, healed the afflicted, and restored individuals to wholeness.

The Persistent Need for Deliverance

Contrary to popular belief, deliverance remains as vital today as it was during biblical times. Christians are not immune to spiritual attacks and influences that can negatively impact their lives. Ephesians 6:12 (NLT) warns, “For we are not fighting against flesh-and-blood enemies, but against evil rulers and authorities of the unseen world, against mighty powers in this dark world, and against evil spirits in the heavenly places.” By acknowledging the reality of spiritual warfare, believers can recognize the importance of deliverance in maintaining their spiritual well-being.

Consequences of Neglecting Deliverance

Failing to address the need for deliverance can result in various spiritual, emotional, and physical consequences. Spiritual bondage can impede one’s relationship with God, dampen spiritual discernment, and open doors to further demonic oppression. Emotional turmoil, mental distress, and relational conflicts may also arise due to unaddressed spiritual issues. Moreover, prolonged spiritual bondage can lead to physical ailments and a general sense of spiritual malaise.

The Pathway to Deliverance

Achieving deliverance begins with acknowledging the need for spiritual freedom and turning to God for help. James 4:7 (NLT) urges, “So humble yourselves before God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.” Believers must cultivate humility, submitting their lives to God’s authority while actively resisting evil influences through prayer, fasting, and the application of biblical truth.

Furthermore, seeking support from mature Christians or deliverance ministries can provide guidance and encouragement throughout the process. The church is called to function as a community of believers who support and uplift one another in times of need (Galatians 6:2).

Embracing Life after Deliverance

Deliverance ushers in a newfound sense of spiritual freedom and empowerment that enables believers to live victorious lives in Christ. By severing the chains of spiritual bondage, individuals can experience a deeper intimacy with God, heightened spiritual discernment, and the ability to resist future attacks. In the words of 2 Corinthians 5:17 (NLT), “This means that anyone who belongs to Christ has become a new person. The old life is gone; a new life has begun!”

Wrapping up

Deliverance remains a vital and relevant aspect of the Christian faith that equips believers to overcome spiritual oppression and embrace the abundant life that God intends for them. By acknowledging the reality of spiritual warfare, seeking divine intervention, and relying on the support of fellow believers, individuals can break free from bondage and experience the transformative power of spiritual freedom in their lives.

Making a Difference

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“Father God, please guide me as I write this article based on Your Word. Help me to write this to glorify You, and let Your words bring clarity to those who seek You. May Your truth help people discern and embrace correct beliefs. I pray and seek everything in the name of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. Amen.”

Hi there fellow believers in Christ! Story Time

Once upon a time, in a small coastal town in Mexico, there was a teenager named Miguel who loved to spend his evenings walking along the beach. One evening, as he strolled along the shore, he noticed an elderly man bending down and tossing something into the water. Curious, Miguel approached the man to see what he was doing.

The man smiled warmly at Miguel and said, “I’m throwing these starfish back into the ocean. You see, they’ve been washed ashore by the tide, and if I don’t throw them back, they’ll die here on the beach.”

Miguel looked around and saw that the beach was covered with thousands of stranded starfish. He was amazed and asked, “But there are so many starfish here. How can you possibly make a difference?”

The man picked up another starfish, threw it into the ocean, and said, “To this starfish, I made a difference.”

This simple act of kindness had a profound impact on Miguel. He realized that even though he was just one person, he could still make a difference in the world around him. Inspired by the man’s actions, Miguel decided to join him in rescuing the stranded starfish.

As they worked together, picking up starfish and returning them to the ocean, other beachgoers began to take notice. Soon, more and more people joined in the effort, and before long, the beach was filled with people working together to save the starfish.

By the end of the day, they had saved hundreds of starfish, and the beach was alive with the sound of laughter and joy. Miguel had learned an important lesson: even the smallest act of kindness can have a ripple effect, touching the lives of many and making a big impact on the community.

From that day on, Miguel made it his mission to look for opportunities to make a difference, no matter how small. He knew that by working together, even the smallest actions could create a wave of positive change that would benefit everyone in the community.

Diving In

Have you ever stopped to ponder your place in the vast expanse of existence, questioning whether your seemingly insignificant life could truly make a lasting impact? The Bible, brimming with tales of ordinary individuals achieving extraordinary feats, unequivocally affirms that you can indeed become a powerful instrument in God’s divine symphony.

The Humble Heart’s Unmatched Strength

In the annals of history, we discover David, a modest shepherd who rose to become a mighty king, and Mary, a young woman chosen to bear the Messiah, both exemplifying the power of humility and faith. By surrendering their lives to God’s divine plan, these humble individuals were elevated to play pivotal roles in salvation history.

A Paradigm Shift: God’s Unique Perspective

Divine wisdom transcends earthly measures of success and influence, as the eternal perspective extends beyond fleeting fame and power. 1 Corinthians 1:27-28 (NLT) illuminates this profound truth: “God chose what is foolish in the world to shame the wise; God chose what is weak in the world to shame the strong; God chose what is low and despised in the world, even things that are not, to bring to nothing things that are.”

Ripples of Change: Unleashing the Butterfly Effect

Like the starfish rescuer who made a difference one life at a time, our acts of obedience, no matter how small they may seem, possess the potential to unleash a ripple effect with far-reaching consequences. Ephesians 3:20 (NLT) reassures us: “Now to him who is able to do far more abundantly than all that we ask or think, according to the power at work within us.” When we trust in God’s power, our small acts of obedience can create waves of change.

Faithfulness: The Key to Unlocking Greatness

God does not demand grandiose gestures to usher in transformation; rather, He calls us to remain steadfast in the small, seemingly mundane aspects of life. In Luke 16:10 (NLT), we are reminded, “One who is faithful in a very little is also faithful in much, and one who is dishonest in a very little is also dishonest in much.” By cultivating faithfulness in the everyday, we nurture our potential to impact the world for God’s glory.

Wrapping up: Embrace Your Divine Calling

In moments of uncertainty, when the world’s vastness threatens to overshadow your significance, remember that God delights in using the ordinary to achieve the extraordinary. By trusting in His plan and remaining faithful in the small things, you become a powerful instrument in the divine orchestra, contributing to the symphony of transformation that echoes throughout eternity. Embrace your divine calling and unlock the extraordinary potential that lies within you.

Selah

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“Father God, please guide me as I write this article based on Your Word. Help me to write this to glorify You, and let Your words bring clarity to those who seek You. May Your truth help people discern and embrace correct beliefs. I pray and seek everything in the name of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. Amen.”

Hi there fellow believers in Christ! Have you ever been reading the Psalms and come across the word “Selah”? It’s one of those intriguing terms that seems to carry a deeper meaning than its simple appearance suggests. I remember the first time I encountered it while exhorting in church. As I delved into its significance, I was struck by its connection to the idea of exaltation.

Diving in

In Hebrew, “Selah” (סֶלָה) is derived from the root word “salal,” meaning “to lift up” or “to exalt.” This revelation transformed the way I viewed worship and its impact on exalting God’s name.

Reflecting on God’s Majesty

When we see “Selah” in the Psalms, it serves as a prompt for us to pause and reflect on the greatness of God. It’s a moment to lift Him up in our hearts and minds, acknowledging His majesty and sovereignty. In Psalm 57:5, David writes, “Be exalted, O God, above the heavens; let your glory be over all the earth.” This verse, coupled with “Selah,” reminds us to exalt God’s name not just in our words, but in our hearts.

Worship as Exaltation

Worship is more than just singing songs or reciting prayers; it’s an act of exalting God. When we worship, we are lifting up His name, declaring His greatness, and magnifying His glory. Psalm 34:3 says, “Oh, magnify the Lord with me, and let us exalt his name together!” When we gather as a body of believers to worship, we are collectively exalting God’s name, and His presence is manifested among us.

The Impact of Exalted Worship

When we exalt God in our worship, something powerful happens. His name is lifted up, and His glory fills the atmosphere. In Psalm 46:10, we are encouraged to “Be still, and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth!” As we exalt God, His presence is made known, and His name is glorified not just in our midst, but throughout the earth.

Selah in our Lives

As we incorporate the concept of “Selah” into our daily lives, we can experience a deeper connection with God. By pausing to reflect on His goodness, mercy, and grace, we exalt Him in our hearts. In Psalm 119:164, the psalmist declares, “Seven times a day I praise you for your righteous rules.” This practice of continual praise and reflection can lead to a life of exalted worship, where God’s name is glorified in all we do.

Wrapping up

“Selah” serves as a reminder to pause and exalt God in our worship and daily lives. As we lift His name on high, His presence is made known, and His glory fills the earth. So, let us embrace the power of “Selah” and exalt God in all we do, for He alone is worthy of our praise.

“Selah” is more than just a musical notation; it’s a call to action—a call to lift up God’s name in exaltation. As we embrace this concept in our worship and daily lives, we can experience a deeper connection with God and a greater awareness of His presence. So, let us pause, reflect, and exalt God in all we do, for He alone is worthy of our praise.

Enjoying God

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“Father God, please guide me as I write this article based on Your Word. Help me to write this to glorify You, and let Your words bring clarity to those who seek You. May Your truth help people discern and embrace correct beliefs. I pray and seek everything in the name of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. Amen.”

Hi there fellow believers in Christ! This topic also serves as a reminder to myself.

Diving in

Do you ever feel like being a Christian is dull or boring? Well, let me tell you, it’s anything but! Being a Christian is about discovering the joy and excitement of a life lived in relationship with God. It’s about finding peace, comfort, and purpose in Him.

The Thrill of God’s Presence

Imagine this: you wake up in the morning, and before you even open your eyes, you feel God’s presence surrounding you. In those quiet moments, you know that you are not alone. You are loved, cherished, and guided by the Creator of the universe. This is the joy of knowing God intimately, as a friend and a constant companion. As Psalm 16:11 says, “You make known to me the path of life; in your presence, there is fullness of joy; at your right hand are pleasures forevermore.”

The Adventure of Faith

Being a Christian is like embarking on the greatest adventure of your life. Every day is an opportunity to grow closer to God, to learn more about Him, and to experience His goodness in new and exciting ways. It’s a journey filled with unexpected twists and turns, but through it all, you have the assurance that God is with you, leading you every step of the way. As Proverbs 3:5-6 says, “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths.”

The Beauty of Community

One of the most incredible aspects of the Christian life is the community of believers you become a part of. These are people who love God just as much as you do, and together, you can encourage, support, and uplift one another. It’s a place where you can be yourself, where you are accepted and loved for who you are, flaws and all. In Romans 12:5, it says, “so we, though many, are one body in Christ, and individually members one of another.”

The Joy of Serving Others

As a Christian, you are called to be a light in the world, to show God’s love to others through your words and actions. There is no greater joy than knowing that you have made a positive impact on someone else’s life, that you have been the hands and feet of Jesus to those in need. As Galatians 5:13 says, “For you were called to freedom, brothers. Only do not use your freedom as an opportunity for the flesh, but through love serve one another.”

The Peace of God’s Love

In the midst of a chaotic and uncertain world, there is a peace that comes from knowing that you are loved by God. It’s a peace that surpasses all understanding, a peace that can calm the most troubled heart. When you spend time in prayer and meditation, you can experience this peace in a profound way, and it can sustain you through even the darkest of times. In Philippians 4:7, it says, “And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”

Wrapping up

Being a Christian is not about following a set of rules or traditions; it’s about experiencing the love, joy, and peace that come from knowing God. It’s about living life to the fullest, knowing that you are loved unconditionally by the Creator of the universe. So, if you ever find yourself feeling like being a Christian is boring, remember this: the greatest adventure of your life is just beginning.

Shalom

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“Father God, please guide me as I write this article based on Your Word. Help me to write this to glorify You, and let Your words bring clarity to those who seek You. May Your truth help people discern and embrace correct beliefs. I pray and seek everything in the name of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. Amen.”

Hi there fellow believers in Christ! Shalom, a familiar word in Jewish, Muslim, and Christian cultures, holds profound meaning beyond the simple English translation of “peace.” In this article, we will delve into the richness of shalom, exploring its significance, Scriptural roots, and how embracing shalom can transform our lives.

What is Shalom

Shalom is derived from the Hebrew word “shalam,” which means “to be complete, whole, or sound.” Shalom embodies the idea of harmony, wholeness, and wellbeing in every aspect of life – physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual. It is a comprehensive concept that goes beyond the absence of conflict, extending to the flourishing of individuals, communities, and the world.

The Meaning of Shalom in Hebrew

In Hebrew, the word “shalom” (שָׁלוֹם) encompasses a rich and complex meaning that goes beyond the simple English translation of “peace.” Shalom is derived from the root word “shalam” (שָׁלֵם), which means “to be complete, whole, or sound.” Thus, shalom implies not only the absence of conflict but also a sense of wholeness, wellbeing, and harmony in all aspects of life.

Shalom in the Bible

Throughout the Bible, shalom appears in various contexts, each highlighting different aspects of its meaning:

Wholeness and Completeness: In Genesis 15:15, God promises Abraham that he will “go to his ancestors in peace,” implying a sense of completion and fulfillment.

Peace and Tranquility: Psalm 4:8 says, “In peace I will lie down and sleep, for you alone, Lord, make me dwell in safety” (NLT). Here, shalom conveys a sense of tranquility and security in the presence of God.

Reconciliation and Unity: Ephesians 2:14-15 speaks of Christ breaking down the dividing wall of hostility to create “one new humanity,” resulting in “peace” between formerly divided groups.

Blessing and Prosperity: In Jeremiah 29:11, God declares His plans to give His people “a future and a hope” – a promise of shalom that encompasses not only peace but also wellbeing and prosperity.

As we explore the biblical usage of shalom, it becomes evident that this powerful word extends far beyond a simple greeting or farewell. Shalom reflects God’s heart for His people and His desire to see them experience wholeness, harmony, and flourishing in every aspect of their lives. By embracing shalom, we align ourselves with God’s intentions and invite His transformative peace to permeate our hearts and relationships.

Shalom in Jewish Tradition

In Jewish tradition, shalom is a core value that guides interpersonal relationships, ethical decision-making, and spiritual practices. It is viewed as a manifestation of the divine presence in the world, a state of harmony that reflects God’s intended order for creation. As a greeting, shalom is a way of extending God’s peace to others, affirming their inherent worth and interconnectedness within the broader community.

Shalom in Christian Scripture

Throughout the Bible, shalom is portrayed as an essential aspect of God’s character and His desire for humanity. Jesus is referred to as the “Prince of Peace” (Isaiah 9:6 NLT), and His ministry was marked by acts of healing, reconciliation, and restoration – all expressions of shalom. Paul emphasizes the importance of shalom in his letters, urging believers to “live in peace” (2 Corinthians 13:11 NLT) and “make every effort to live in peace with everyone” (Hebrews 12:14 NLT).

Shalom in Muslim Culture

In the Muslim tradition, the greeting “Assalamu Alaikum” (peace be upon you) is a common expression that reflects the importance of peace in Islamic teachings. Similar to shalom, this greeting conveys a desire for the recipient to experience completeness, safety, and blessings, demonstrating the shared significance of peace in both Jewish and Muslim cultures.

Embracing Shalom in Daily Life

Integrating shalom into our lives involves more than simply using it as a greeting; it requires a commitment to fostering wholeness, reconciliation, and justice in our relationships, communities, and world. Here are some practical ways to embody shalom:

Personal Wholeness: Seek emotional, mental, and spiritual wellbeing by engaging in practices such as meditation, prayer, self-reflection, and personal growth.

Relationships: Prioritize communication, empathy, and forgiveness in your relationships, seeking to restore harmony and wholeness where there is conflict or misunderstanding.

Community Engagement: Actively contribute to the wellbeing of your community through volunteer work, advocacy, or simply offering support to those in need.

Wrapping up

Shalom, a profound and complex concept, encapsulates the essence of holistic peace, wholeness, and wellbeing. By embracing shalom in our daily lives, we not only honor God’s intention for humanity but also contribute to the healing and restoration of our relationships, communities, and world. May we continue to seek, cultivate, and extend shalom to all those we encounter on our journey.

Struggles of Unforgiveness

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“Father God, please guide me as I write this article based on Your Word. Help me to write this to glorify You, and let Your words bring clarity to those who seek You. May Your truth help people discern and embrace correct beliefs. I pray and seek everything in the name of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. Amen.”

Hi there fellow believers in Christ! This is the 3rd article I am writing on the same topic and still stuck to the unforgiveness. I have seen a small video from Impact Christian Ministries, I am sharing the link as it served as a practical guide as well as a go to reference for my sin of Unforgiveness.

Diving in

Forgiveness, both towards others and ourselves, is a powerful and transformative act that lies at the heart of our Christian journey. When we fail to extend forgiveness, we risk becoming entangled in a cycle of bitterness and resentment, hindering our ability to experience the fullness of God’s love and mercy. This blog post will explore the impact of unforgiveness on our relationship with God, the benefits of extending forgiveness, and the role that divine grace plays in our journey towards letting go.

The Impact of Unforgiveness

Unforgiveness can significantly impede our spiritual growth and connection with God in several ways:

Separation from God: Harboring resentment can create a barrier between us and God, as it contradicts His call to love and forgive others (Matthew 6:14-15 NLT). Unforgiveness may lead to feelings of guilt and shame, making it challenging to fully embrace God’s love and mercy.

Emotional and Spiritual Burden: Refusing to forgive others or ourselves can weigh heavily on our hearts, causing emotional pain and spiritual stagnation. This burden can hinder our ability to experience the joy and freedom found in Christ (Galatians 5:1 NLT).

The Benefits of Forgiveness

Choosing to forgive has numerous benefits for our spiritual lives, including:

Drawing Closer to God: As we embrace forgiveness, we align our hearts with God’s will, enabling us to deepen our relationship with Him and experience His grace more fully (Matthew 18:21-22 NLT).

Emotional Healing: Forgiveness can bring emotional healing and release us from the chains of resentment, allowing us to move forward in our journey with a renewed sense of peace and freedom (Colossians 3:13 NLT).

Growth in Compassion and Empathy: Extending forgiveness to others and ourselves cultivates compassion and empathy, fostering a spirit of humility and love that reflects the heart of Christ (Ephesians 4:32 NLT).

The Enemy’s Tactics

The enemy often exploits our struggles with unforgiveness, seeking to entrap us in a cycle of resentment and bitterness:

Fueling Anger and Resentment: Satan may attempt to fuel our anger, convincing us that holding onto grudges is justified or necessary, further isolating us from God’s love (Ephesians 4:26-27 NLT).

Distorting Our Perception: The enemy can distort our understanding of forgiveness, leading us to believe that letting go equates to weakness or implies that the hurt we experienced was insignificant.

The Power of God’s Grace in Forgiveness

God’s grace is essential in our journey towards forgiveness:

Divine Empowerment: Through His Spirit, God empowers us to extend forgiveness even in challenging circumstances, providing the strength and wisdom we need to let go of past hurts (2 Corinthians 12:9 NLT).

Transforming Our Hearts: The Holy Spirit works within us to transform our hearts, enabling us to see others through the lens of God’s love and extending forgiveness as a reflection of His mercy (Romans 12:2 NLT).

Practical Steps Towards Forgiveness

Pursuing forgiveness is an ongoing process that requires intentionality and commitment:

Seek God’s Guidance: Begin by seeking God’s guidance through prayer, asking for the wisdom and strength to navigate the forgiveness process (James 1:5 NLT).

Reflect on God’s Forgiveness: Meditate on the forgiveness we have received from God, recognizing that we are called to extend the same grace to others (Matthew 18:21-35 NLT).

Seek Support: Surround yourself with a community of believers who can offer encouragement, prayer, and accountability as you work towards forgiveness (Hebrews 10:24-25 NLT).

Wrapping up

Forgiveness is a powerful and transformative act that can bring healing, freedom, and renewed intimacy with God. By addressing the chains of unforgiveness in our lives, we can break free from the enemy’s grasp, embracing the love, grace, and mercy that define our identity in Christ. As we choose to let go of past hurts and extend forgiveness to others and ourselves, we embark on a journey towards wholeness and spiritual growth, reflecting the heart of our loving and compassionate Savior.