His Wondrous Peace

Posted on December 2, 2023 by Doula Faith

(Revision 2023)

“Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace among those with whom he is pleased!”
Luke 2:14 ESV (my emphasis)

Note: With all that’s going on in the world the Lord wants to remind us of His Peace.
I hope this encourages you as He encourages me.

Peace: Greek- εἰρήνη
Shalom: Hebrew – שָׁלוֹם

At the time of Christ’s birth, while at night shepherds were tending their sheep, an angel appeared to them along with a multitude of the heavenly host praising God, saying:

“Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace among those with whom he is pleased!”

But to whom is God’s Peace given, and to whom is He pleased? God’s peace came with His salvation, and those who receive it also have His Peace. It is the fruit of the Spirit, and by it we are identified as belonging to Christ. (Galatians 5: 22-23)

“Therefore, since we have been justified through faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have gained access by faith into this grace in which we now stand. And we boast in the hope of the glory of God.”
Romans 5:1-2

The angels proclaimed God’s Peace at the birth of His Son, and when Jesus was ready to depart this earth He comforted His disciples with these words:

“Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.” John 14:27

Notice, Jesus did not promise peace through circumstances, for that peace comes by the ways of this world. But the peace He promised, comes through faith. The promise of peace is to the ones who pray in all their circumstances, trusting God, to take care of it all:

“ Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.  And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus”
Philippians 4: 6-7

Is there an exception to being unafraid if we are in Christ Jesus? God’s Word tells us “No”:

“For God gave us a spirit not of fear but of power and love and self-control.”
2 Timothy 1:7

Therefore, if we are in Jesus Christ we have peace with God and with one another. For Christ reconciled us to God through His sacrifice and taught us to love. So what separates the believer from the unbeliever is faith in His blood. For we have peace through faith in His righteousness and not in our own. (Hebrews 13: 20-21)

When Jesus entered Jerusalem to lay down His life, He was met with similar words the angels proclaimed at His birth:

“Blessed is the king who comes in the name of the Lord!” “Peace in heaven and glory in the highest!”
Luke 19:38

But not all accept His Peace of salvation, it is a choice:

“As he approached Jerusalem and saw the city, he wept over it and said, “If you, even you, had only known on this day what would bring you peace—but now it is hidden from your eyes.” Luke 19:41-42

It is prophesied that the end will occur when people find peace not in Christ’s salvation but embrace the “peace of this world”:
 “For when they say, “Peace and safety!” then sudden destruction comes upon them, as labor pains upon a pregnant woman. And they shall not escape.” 1 Thessalonians 5:3

So let us remember, genuine peace can only be found in a personal relationship with Jesus Christ and knowing His Word. (Hosea 4:6, John 15:1-17)


“I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace.
In this world you will have trouble.
But take heart! I have overcome the world.” John 16:33

Resources for further Study on God’s Peace:
What is the peace of God, and how can I experience it? | GotQuestions.org
Bible Hub: biblehub.com

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Victory or Defeat

Posted on December 7, 2018 by Doula Faith

 

 

flower

“I said, ‘You are my servant’; I have chosen you and have not rejected you. 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.” Isaiah 41:9-10

 

Did you know that Jesus is at the right hand side of the Father interceding for every child of faith? (Romans 8:34)

When I looked at the two flowers in this vase it expressed to me one standing firm and the other caving into defeat. The bloom on the right looked as if it’s head and countenance were looking down, while the one on the left was opened up looking towards heaven and in full bloom. This contrast reminds me of how a Christian faces testings and trials.  And I believe it has everything to do with how we see God. We either believe in His “Word” and “Goodness” or we doubt.

When Eve accepted Satan’s accusation against God, she questioned His Goodness. In essence, she believed God was withholding something good from her, although she lacked nothing. After biting into the bait, she also had doubts about herself and relationship with God, so she hid from the TRUTH.

Whenever I get overwhelmed with doubts and fears,  due to my circumstance, the devil is close by blaming God; convincing me God is withholding His protection and love. The enemy’s arsenal is bringing up my past sins and failures; giving reason to why I am currently suffering or not receiving  answers to my prayers.
He is always quick first to blame God then condemn me. (1 Peter 5:8)

So what is my protector and shield? It is my faith in His Word. (Ephesians 6:16)
Yesterday I met with an onslaught of accusations and images of failures. But then, I remembered to take my burden to the Lord, and humbly asked Him for encouragement.  He gave it, not by anyone or anything, but by His Word.  When I glanced at my Apple watch, the verse of the day appeared- Romans 8:28.  I needed to be reminded of His promise;  that the adversity in my life was allowed to strengthen my faith and give me victory not defeat.

When Jesus was being tempted by the devil. Jesus did not go into a dissertation or a debate.  He simply quoted what God’s Word says. So if we want to resist the devil and move forward in the things of God, we have a choice.  We can either pay attention to what the enemy has to say or what God has to say.  But if we don’t know God’s Word, then we are left to wield our own sword, which is no match when it comes to winning spiritual battles.  (Ephesians 6:12)

The answer to perseverance in faith is having an intimate relationship with Jesus Christ, whereby, we come in eye-contact with the Word by seeking His face.
Jesus said, we are to do nothing less than to abide in His Word and Love.

But How do we begin a relationship with God and His Word? It begins at His Cross.

  Want to know how to abide in His Word and walk with confidence in Jesus Christ?

FIND OUT HOW

“His Abide”
How to Abide in His Word

 

 

 

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His Treasure

Posted on October 17, 2023 by Doula Faith

Psalm 19: 7-10

“The decrees of the Lord are firm, and all of them are righteous. They are more precious than gold, than much pure gold; they are sweeter than honey, than honey from the honeycomb.”  Psalm 19:10

The Lord loves to share golden nuggets of revelation with His children. And those nuggets remain hidden in the heart until the one who receives the precious gem decides to share it. So imagine my awe when I read how Jesus at times would teach in or near the Temple’s treasury.  What a gem  and revelation -The revelation found in God’s Word is likened to what is considered precious, hidden and rare – The Wisdom of God.  And so to receive understanding of God’s Word is a precious moment to cherish- like a glimpse into His vast storehouse of sparkling jewels.

“The secret things belong unto the LORD our God: but those things which are revealed belong unto us and to our children forever, that we may do all the words of this law.” Deuteronomy 29:29

I was so inspired by this revelation that I began a search of how God’s Word relates to treasures liken to gold and silver and precious stones.  I found many scriptures that relate.


GOD’s Word is a TREASURE

As a confirmation of how His Word is a Treasure to all who search into it,  I was handed the above affirmation upon returning to a Woman’s Conference.  I was amazed!

The Word has been a source of treasure as it always strengthens, comforts and guides and nourishes me each and every day. But if I don’t bother to open the treasure chest (Bible) to learn the jewels of wisdom on each and every page, what benefit are they ?

When Abraham’s servant went out to search for a wife for His son, Isaac, upon finding her, He gave her gifts to seal the deal of her betrothal. Upon receiving them, she wore them, and left her home making the commitment to be Isaac’s bride. (Genesis 24:22).

God not only wants us to gaze into His vast storehouse of treasures, but to know them and bind them to our forehead and hand and write them everywhere; teaching them to our children; putting them on display. (Deuteronomy 6:4-9 )

Jesus adorns His beloved with gifts to identify His eternal Bride. Upon saying yes, and following Him, He gives the gift of His Holy Spirit. His gift is like an eternal ring of deposit guaranteeing her redemption and eternal life. Do you wear Christ’s ring on your heart?
This ring is like an eternal seal and  guarantee of belonging to Christ and it means Christ will never depart.
(Ephesians 1:13-14, 2 Corinthians 11:2, Ephesians 5:25-30, Ephesians 4: 11-16)

“And I am convinced that nothing can ever separate us from God’s love. Neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither our fears for today nor our worries about tomorrow—not even the powers of hell can separate us from God’s love. No power in the sky above or in the earth below—indeed, nothing in all creation will ever be able to separate us from the love of God that is revealed in Christ Jesus our Lord.”
Romans 8: 38-39

Now, that’s a treasure to behold!

Isaiah 45:3,  Matthew 13:44-46, Psalms 12:6, Proverbs 2: 1-6, Proverbs 20:15, Proverbs 3:13-15, Proverbs 8:10-11, Psalm 119:72-127, Colossians 2: 2-3,
Proverbs 25:11, Deuteronomy 6:4-9, 11:18

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The Labor of Christ

Posted on September 4, 2023 by Doula Faith

“For all who have entered into God’s rest have rested from their labors, just as God did after creating the world.” Hebrews 4:10

                                           The first Monday in September “Labor Day”.

The History of Labor Day

“American labor has raised the nation’s standard of living and contributed to the greatest production the world has ever known and the labor movement has brought us closer to the realization of our traditional ideals of economic and political democracy. It is appropriate, therefore, that the nation pays tribute on Labor Day to the creator of so much of the nation’s strength, freedom, and leadership – the American worker.”

Slaves to Sin – Unbelief

When the Israelites where rescued from Egyptian slavery, they were set free from the grueling forced labor. And as they left for the promised land, they were to embark on a journey where they would reach a land flowing with milk and honey. There they would enter God’s rest. Everything that was needed would be provided for them. But the test of entering in was whether or not they could trust God on the way. When they finally reached their destination they were not able to go in because they feared the giants they had seen, believing,  it was impossible to overtake them.  However, time and time again, when they met with an enemy, God defeated their enemy through Moses’ obedience and faith.
Every step of the way there was complaining and grumbling whenever they became hungry or thirsty. ALthough, God had always provided for them, with manna from heaven and water pouring from a rock. His provision was to the point that even their clothes and shoes did not wear out as they walked across the wilderness desert those 40 years. (Deuteronomy 29:5)

What does it mean to enter God’s rest, and how is it that so many missed it?
It’s because they did not trust God to be Good, and continued to work at achieving their own life.  Adam and Eve believed God was withholding something good from them, even though they lacked nothing, so they took the bait of wanting something more.  Unfortunately, God was not enough, therefore, God multiplied their labor. Why? They did not trust God, but instead, had faith in themselves. When Jesus addressed His disciples before leaving this earth, He reminded them to abide in Him for apart from Him they could do nothing.

                                                                   The Works of the Cross
When Jesus took our sins and our punishment on the cross, He accomplished the work God had sent Him to do. He was to make atonement for every sin. He did not throw in the towel and give up when all had abandoned Him, and when God did not give Him a way of escape. No, His face was like flint as He journeyed to Jerusalem those 33 years.  Yet, the Lord sustained Him as He fulfilled the works of the Father and not His own.

“Jesus gave them this answer: “Very truly I tell you, the Son can do nothing by himself; he can do only what he sees his Father doing, because whatever the Father does the Son also does.” John 5:19

When Jesus had accomplished God’s atonement for our sins, He cried out with a loud voice, “It is finished!” because He had finished the works of the Father – to provide salvation for the whole world.

How We Enter His Rest

Now, when anyone has faith in the finished work of the cross, they enter God’s salvation and rest.  No longer as believers do we have to accomplish what is required of the law to obtain righteousness, but rather we enter the rest of our Savior, who has made us righteous through His righteousness. (Romans 4:18-22)

“For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, not a result of works, so that no one may boast. For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them.” Ephesians 2: 8-10

Anyone rejecting the work of Jesus Christ is still under the curse of the law.  But Jesus, became the curse for us and as God’s wrath was poured out upon Him, He called out, “Father, forgive them for they know not what they do.” Therefore, anyone calling on His Name has passed from death to life. (Luke 23: 41-43)

As children of the living God, we have obtained an inheritance that can never be taken away, and it was not by our own labor or good works,  but our Saviors’, Jesus Christ.

As we rest one day from all our labor here on earth, if we are in Christ, we will hear the Lord’s command,  “Come forth!” or “Come up here! and together those who believe and are in the grave and those still alive will meet our Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ in the clouds and enter the Promise Land – Paradise, prepared for us. (John 14:2)
(John 11:43, 1 Thessalonians 4:16-17, Revelation 4:1)

“Jesus answered them, “This is the work of God, that you believe in him whom he has sent.” John 6:29

What is Hell? Rejecting God’s payment for your sins and paying yourself.
What is Heaven?  Accepting Jesus’ payment for your sins and entering Salvation’s Rest.

Lord, thank you for your Son, Jesus Christ, who paid for everyone’s sins. I pray that anyone who reads this blog will make the decision to believe and accept Christ’s work at the cross and receive Eternal Life.

“For this is how God loved the world: He gave his one and only Son, so that everyone who believes in him will not perish but have eternal life.” John 3: 16

The Cross is a + Sign

CR – John 5:17, Isaiah 30:15, Hebrews 4:10, John 10:37

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Lord, Don’t Give Up on Me

Posted on August 30, 2023 by Doula Faith

Context: Psalm 119: 1-176
Focus: Psalm 119: 1-8

“I will obey your decrees. Please don’t give up on me!” Psalm 119:8 NLT
(my emphasis)

Those who follow the instructions of the Lord are blessed with the joy of His presence. Those who seek Him with all their hearts will find Him.  They do not compromise with evil but walk His path of righteousness.  You commanded us to keep Your law and our desire should be to do so carefully and consistently. Then I will not be ashamed as I compare my life with your commands and learn your righteous regulations. My thanksgiving will manifest itself by living as I should. I will obey your decrees. Please, don’t give up on me.

There is a joy in doing the will of God and in all He leads us to do by the promptings of His Holy Spirit.  It is through His grace we are able to walk in His ways.
Sometimes, it is hard and we ask the Lord to not give up on us because there are times we miss the mark in obedience. (Romans 7: 21-25)

I don’t know how many times I have prayed, “Lord don’t give up on me” as I earnestly try to do His will.  I’ve even asked, “Please, Lord, let me end well”.  I have not lived as well as I should  as I reflect on my life in old age.  But recently, I have been reminded to look at the lives and examples given in scriptures concerning the Patriarchs, Prophets, Disciples, Apostles, to recognize they were also weak and leaned heavily upon His grace.
(Philippians 1:6, 2 Timothy 2:13, Psalm 71:18)

As I need to pursue holiness, I am also kept in righteousness by my faith and not by my deeds.  My righteousness is not a result of my deeds, but comes through my belief in Christ’s righteousness, who bore every sin on the TREE.  (Ephesians 2: 8-9)

Lord, thank you that it is through your salvation and faithfulness we are saved, and your promise is to complete the work of righteousness in us until the day of your redemption.

CR – Psalm 38:21, Psalm 71:9, Psalm 71:18 , Psalm 138:8, Psalm 51: 11, Romans 7: 21-25, Philippians 1:6, Matthew 22: 37-40, Ephesians 2: 8-9, 2 Timothy 2:13

Learn How to Abide in His Word and Love – “His Abide”

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In Quietness

Posted on August 14, 2023 by Doula Faith

Context: 1 Thessalonians 4: 1-12
Focus: 1 Thessalonians 4: 11-12

“Make it your goal to live a quiet life, minding your own business and working with your hands, just as we instructed you before.” 1 Thessalonians 4:11

Scripture Summary

Make it your goal to live quiet lives, minding your own business, working with your hands as instructed to do, so those who are unbelievers will respect the way you live and you will not need to depend on others.

Reflection

I see there is a witness and a spiritual confidence manifested in quietly going about daily work with Christ in mind; not tempted in meddling in others’ affairs, but working diligently to support oneself without having to go to others for help.

They say idleness is the devil’s workshop and it’s true.  When I am idle I tend to overthink matters and worry.  Recently I’ve been inspired in making bracelets that represent biblical concepts ( Deuteronomy 11: 18-21) in abiding in God’s Word.  When we abide in His love, and His Word, the turmoil within quiets down and His Word comes alive creating an ambiance of calm ( Psalm 23: 2-3).


John 15: 1-9

The greek word for “quiet” means to be rested, to be still.  To me, it means not having to be opinionated, not having to prove oneself, but allowing one’s conduct speak for itself.   It reminds me of how Jesus remained silent while being questioned, interrogated by the Jewish High Priests and Pilate. He didn’t have to answer as to Who He was, because He knew Who He was. So when we exhibit a confident quietness, tending to our own business, not anxious over proving our identity, our identity comes across loud and clear –
We belong to our Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ, our God.

With a world that is anything but still and quiet, but rather constantly flapping its wings to be heard and noticed, one of the most notable witness that God is present in someone’s life is their calmness and quiet confidence in the midst of it all.

Prayer

Thank you Lord for calming my anxiousness and leading me again beside the still waters, for your Name sake, restoring my soul.  (Psalm 23: 2-3)

CR- Isaiah 30:15, 2 Thessalonians 3:12, Ecclesiastes 4:6, Romans 12:11,
Matthew 27: 11-12, Proverbs 17: 27-28

“This is what the Sovereign LORD, the Holy One of Israel, says: “Only in returning to me and resting in me will you be saved. In quietness and confidence is your strength…………” (my emphasis)  Isaiah 30:15

 

Create your own devotional by abiding in His Word
Learn How

Blessed Abiding!

Resource: Bible Hub – biblehub.com

 

 

 

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Pleasing God

Posted on August 9, 2023 by Doula Faith

Context: 1 Thessalonians 4: 1-18

Focus: 1 Thessalonians 4:1-8

“As for other matters, brothers and sisters, we instructed you how to live in order to please God, as in fact you are living. Now we ask you and urge you in the Lord Jesus to do this more and more.” 1 Thessalonians 4: 1 (my emphasis)

Summary
Paul urges the Thessalonians to live a life that pleases God, and to be holy by staying away from all sexual sin, especially violating another believer’s wife, where, therefore, God will avenge such sin as He has warned them before.  He has called us to live pure lives, holy lives, therefore, if anyone refuses to live by these rules is not rejecting human teachings but is rejecting God who gives His Holy Spirit to those who believe in His Son, Jesus Christ.

Reflection

In this life we have the choice of pleasing ourselves, others,  or God. What pleases God is contrary to what pleases our flesh and what pleases and finds favor with mankind.

I learned early  as a child, following my conversion, the cost of pleasing God instead of trying to appease others. I found myself no longer wanting to lie, and practice things that I formerly had no problem with. Soon, those around me noticed the change and were happy for me because the presence of God’s Holy Spirit naturally and sincerely flowed with love towards them.  But when I could no longer compromise when it came to keeping His Word, attitudes towards me changed. I was called a “goody, goody, and those closest to me became angry.  Once, my brother asked me to lie to his friend who came to the door to see him. He didn’t want to bother with his friend.  By the time I got to the door to tell his friend, he was not there, I was convicted by the Holy Spirit. Instead of lying, I told the truth, and got in a lot of trouble with my brother, who was angry.  I soon saw how pleasing God instead of pleasing others cost me being accepted by them.  Also, when I was convicted about doing something wrong myself, it was a struggle, if it was something I enjoyed doing. I would try to justify it and thus the struggle would ensue, until I submitted to myself or the Holy Spirit. Paul speaks about this very struggle of trying to please God instead of self.  (Romans 7: 15-20)

During Jesus’ ministry here on earth, the Father confirmed to all those who were listening how He was pleased with His Son.  When Jesus came out of the water during His baptism, a voice was heard from heaven, “This is my beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased”.  Again, during His transfiguration, a voice from heaven spoke again, “This is my beloved Son, whom I am well pleased, listen to Him!”.  During the transfiguration Jesus was talking with Moses and Elijah, representative of the law and the prophets, which Jesus fulfilled. God was saying, Jesus is the One which was spoken about through my Word, now, listen to His Words.

When Jesus suffered, was bruised and crushed on the cross for our sakes, God was pleased with His Son. He had surrendered Himself to heaven and on earth to please the Father so that we would not experience God’s wrath.  And, in that hour, the Father could not have been more pleased to call Him His beloved Son.

Whenever we resist sin, and submit to the Holy Spirit, or choose to lay down our pride, our wants, our desires for another, the Lord is so pleased we can feel His hand upon us and the joy that comes as a result.

“I delight to do Your will, O my God, And Your law is within my heart.”  Psalm 40:8

Prayer
Dear Lord, let me live a life pleasing you rather than myself, so I can feel your pleasure, here and forevermore.

CR – Romans 8:8, Romans 12:2, Ephesians 5:17, 2 Timothy 3:1-5, Luke 8:14,
2 Corinthians 5:9, 1 Thessalonians 2:4, Acts 5:29, Exodus 1:17, Daniel 6:13,
Acts 4:19, Matthew 3:17, Matthew 17:5, Isaiah 53: 10

“His Abide”
How to Abide in His Word

Write it down and attach it to yourself
Write your own personal devotional by Abiding in God’s Word. 

Deuteronomy 27:1-8   Deuteronomy 11: 18-21

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