Category: Trust

Listen, my beloved brethren: Has God not chosen the poor of this world to be rich in faith and heirs of the kingdom which He promised to those who love Him?
‭‭James‬ ‭2‬:‭5‬

God’s selection criteria differs from the world’s standards. Today’s verse celebrates the value God places on faith and highlights the rich inheritance awaiting those who love Him.

In the world’s eyes, wealth, power, and status often take center stage. But God’s perspective is radically different. He chooses those whom the world may consider poor or insignificant and blesses them with riches of faith.

God’s selection is not based on material wealth but on the wealth of faith. This faith isn’t limited by worldly constraints; it’s a faith that trusts God regardless of circumstances.

James reminds us that those whom God chooses are heirs of His kingdom. This means that regardless of our earthly circumstances, we have a glorious inheritance awaiting us—an inheritance that surpasses anything this world can offer.

James anlso emphasizes that this inheritance is promised to “those who love Him.” Love for God is the key that unlocks the treasures of His kingdom. It’s a love that aligns our hearts with His and leads us to walk in His ways.

Take a moment and reflect on the significance of being chosen heirs of God’s kingdom through faith and love. Are you nurturing your faith and cultivating a deeper love for God? 

Pray

Lord, I am humbled by Your choice to make me an heir of Your kingdom. Thank You for valuing faith and love above worldly riches. Help me to nurture my faith, to love You wholeheartedly, and to live as a testimony to Your grace and love. In Jesus’ name, amen.

lest Satan should take advantage of us; for we are not ignorant of his devices.
‭‭II Corinthians‬ ‭2‬:‭11

Paul urges believers not to be ignorant of Satan’s schemes. He highlights the importance of spiritual awareness. By understanding the adversary’s tactics, we equip ourselves to stand firm in the face of spiritual challenges.

We must acknowledge the significance of spiritual discernment. Just as a soldier studies his enemy’s tactics to win a battle, we too must be vigilant in comprehending the schemes of the evil one. 

Through prayer, scripture, and a vigilant spirit, we can cultivate a discerning heart. The Holy Spirit equips us to navigate life’s twists and turns with wisdom. When we put in the whole armor of God and walk confidently in the light of His truth, we will be protected from the deceptions that seek to undermine our faith.

Stay grounded in the truth and don’t listen to the lies of the enemy. Surround yourself with godly people who will encourage you to strengthen your faith. 

Pray

Lord, I come before You in humility, seeking the wisdom to discern the schemes of my enemy. Give me a spirit of discernment that allows me to recognize the tactics aimed at leading me away from Your truth. Strengthen my spiritual senses through prayer and the study of Your Word. In Jesus’ name, amen.

But He needed to go through Samaria.
‭‭John‬ ‭4‬:‭4‬

John chapter 4 begins with a story of Jesus meeting a lonely Samaritan woman who was drawing water at noonday. The essence of the story is about repentance, although the word “repent” is never mentioned. It’s a testimony of someone whose life was dramatically altered the day she met the Messiah. 

The woman went to draw water from the well at midday to avoid the other women. Because of her lifestyle, she was considered an outcast. Immediately after she encountered Jesus, she deeply desired to invite others to come to Jesus. We can observe two changes in this woman’s life. She changed her mind and she changed her direction. 

After meeting Jesus, she quickly went to the people who shunned her and told them about her encounter with the Messiah. She went to the well seeking physical water but left her bucket at the well after she received the living water. Her purpose and priority was permanently changed. 

Repentance is a change of mind and change of direction. When we truly repent we change our mind about the sin we committed and turn away from that sin. If you have sin that you have not changed your mind about or turned from, you have not repented. 

A relationship with Jesus ignites a repentant heart. When the Holy Spirit comes into our lives, our sins are illuminated, encouraging us to make a change. This change happens when we experience the love of God. Repentance comes after our heart has been transformed.

Reflect on your journey since encountering Jesus. Has His presence caused you to change your lifestyle? Is there a noticeable redirection of paths that dishonor God? Allow the Holy Spirit to strengthen you to make the necessary adjustments.

Pray

Lord, thank You for encountering me and allowing me to receive salvation. Help me to embrace the power of repentance. Give me the courage and strength to change my perspectives and paths. In Jesus’ name, amen.