1/20 SPIRITUAL ARTICLES - BUILDING STRONGER FAITH

 Every morning, as you start your day, you choose the course of your day. For most Americans, we decide to head to work. Some people work eight hours, and some work ten hours to make a living. This routine happens every day to generate money to support our families and lifestyles.

Where does the money come from in the first place? Genesis 3 explains that after Adam disobeyed God by eating from the Tree of Knowledge, God punished Adam by stating, "Through painful toil, you will eat of it all the days of your life. It will produce thorns and thistles for you, and you will eat the plants of the field." 

Furthermore, Ecclesiastes 2:17 says, “So I hated life, because the work that is done under the sun was grievous to me. All of it is meaningless, a chasing after the wind.” This verse shows how empty and frustrating work can feel when it lacks purpose. It’s a powerful reminder that true fulfillment doesn’t come from the job alone, but from finding deeper meaning in what we do.  

 In America, we often listen to financial gurus who promote their money strategies and explain how they accumulated their wealth. At face value, they all seem to agree that the more they have, the savvier they are. However, the Bible offers several principles related to money and spending, including: 

Stewardship: Scripture suggests that everything belongs to God, and individuals are called to be trustworthy in managing resources. Examples include Psalm 24:1 and Luke 16:10. Additionally, 1 Timothy 6:17-19 instructs the wealthy to use their resources for good. 

Generosity: The Bible encourages giving a portion back to God and helping those in need. Proverbs 3:9-10 promotes honoring the Lord with wealth, while 2 Corinthians 9:6-8 speaks of cheerful and generous giving. Acts 20:35 highlights the blessing of giving. 

Contentment and Avoiding Greed: Scripture warns against greed and the love of money, emphasizing that true value is not found in possessions. Luke 12:15 advises guarding against greed, and Hebrews 13:5 encourages contentment and trust in God's provision. 1 Timothy 6:10 describes the love of money as a root of evil. 

Avoiding Debt: The Bible cautions against debt, noting the potential for financial dependence. Proverbs 22:7 describes the borrower as a slave to the lender. Romans 13:8 encourages fullling nancial obligations. Luke 14:28-30 emphasizes careful planning before taking on commitments that could lead to debt. 

The Bible promotes responsible money management through stewardship, generosity, contentment, and avoiding greed and debt. These principles are intended to guide believers in using finances in a way that honors God and reflects their faith. 

 Every morning, when you wake up, you can determine the course of your day and, therefore, the future of your life. Do you start your day thinking about how you will earn your next dollar? Or do you ask God for guidance for your day? 

If you choose the first option, you could have $200, $500, or $1,000 more in your bank account by the end of the day. Choosing God's guidance, however, could prepare you to get $200, $500, or $1,000 for the rest of your life and even attain the Kingdom of God. 

God's option, however, will require you to believe and trust in Him fully and have one hundred percent confidence that He will give you what you want. Most consider purchasing a home, sending the kids to college, or planning a comfortable retirement. Some of us think about being able to make a lot of money or becoming millionaires. 

Not many people can achieve all their personal and financial goals unless God is in their lives. Matthew 6:33 says, "Seek the Kingdom of God first, and everything else should be added to you." This verse illustrates how God will give you all that you want. To fully believe this promise of God, you must create and build a relationship with Him. This relationship will require you to interact with Him every moment of your day and life. 

 What daily activity are you planning to do after you retire from your regular job? 

Retirement does not mean stopping work. The Bible doesn't use "retirement" or mandate a specific age for ceasing work. Still, it does emphasize the importance of work and using one's talents for service, which suggests that ceasing to work may not be what God wants. In Numbers 8:23-26, the Levites, who served in the Tabernacle, are instructed to cease their regular duties at 50 but continue to serve in other capacities. 

This mindset could be good news for you, especially if you don't have a pension lined up or a 401K from your employers to count on. Rather than worrying about how much money you will need at retirement, your mindset should be what skills you should learn today to support yourself financially during that "retirement," hopefully with something you love and enjoy doing. 

 In Christianity, the providence of God is a central theological concept. It is often understood as God's continuous involvement in the world, guiding and sustaining all of creation according to His divine plan. Christians believe that God's providence extends to both individuals and the broader course of history. 

Looking for another alternative to improve your finances and life? I understand that you may be feeling overwhelmed by your current financial situation, but I want to encourage you that there is always hope for a better future. You have the power to change your circumstances and attain nancial freedom, no matter how daunting it may seem right now. God created us, and he has the answers you have been looking for. God knows what you need, as he states in Jeremiah 30:17: “For I know the plans I have for you, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” Learn to trust in him!

 In Christianity, the providence of God is a foundational theological concept that signifies God's active involvement in the world, orchestrating events according to His divine plan. Rooted in trust and faith, Christians believe that God's providence encompasses the past, present, and future, guided by His wisdom and ultimate purpose. The interplay between God's sovereignty and human free will is a theological challenge, with the life of Jesus Christ viewed as the ultimate expression of God's providence and redemptive plan. 

Scripturally grounded, passages from the Bible affirm God's goodness and compassionate care for His creation. Christians are encouraged to pray and seek God's guidance, aligning their will with His providential design. Different denominations may emphasize specific aspects of providence, contributing to the rich tapestry of Christian thought. Throughout history, theologians have explored and articulated doctrines related to God's providence, shaping the understanding of divine interaction within Christian theology. Overall, the providence of God in Christianity provides a source of comfort, assurance, and a framework for interpreting the unfolding events of life in light of God's overarching plan. 

 In Christian theology, the Holy Spirit is considered the third person of the Holy Trinity, along with God the Father and God the Son (Jesus Christ). The Holy Trinity is the Christian belief that there is one God in three persons, each fully and completely God, yet distinct from each other. 

The Holy Spirit is often described as the active presence of God in the world, working in the hearts and lives of believers. In the New Testament of the Bible, particularly in the book of Acts, the Holy Spirit is depicted as descending upon the apostles at Pentecost, empowering them to spread the message of Jesus Christ. 

Christians believe that the Holy Spirit plays a role in various aspects of the Christian life, including guiding believers, convicting them of sin, comforting them, and empowering them for service. 

The Holy Spirit is also associated with gifts and fruits, as described in the Bible, which include qualities such as love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. 

The Holy Spirit is a gift from God and is received through faith in Jesus Christ: 

Faith in Jesus Christ: Many Christians believe that faith in Jesus Christ is fundamental to receiving the Holy Spirit. This involves acknowledging Jesus as Lord and Savior and accepting His atoning sacrifice for sins. 

Repentance: Repentance, or turning away from sin, is often seen as a prerequisite for receiving the Holy Spirit. This involves a sincere acknowledgment of wrongdoing and a commitment to follow Christ. 

Baptism: Baptism is a significant rite in many Christian traditions, symbolizing a person's identification with the death and resurrection of Jesus. Some denominations believe that the Holy Spirit is imparted during or after baptism. Prayer: Christians are encouraged to pray for the Holy Spirit. This may involve asking God to fill them with His Spirit, guide them, and empower them for Christian living. 

Laying on of Hands: In some Christian traditions, the laying on of hands by church leaders or believers is believed to transmit the Holy Spirit. This practice is often associated with the receiving of spiritual gifts. Seeking God's Will: Being open to God's leading and actively seeking to live according to His will is considered essential. This involves a surrendered and obedient hear 

 I have been helping people with their finances for the last 22 years. My experiences with my clients have consistently shown me how we get resources from God. 

To believe that God gives you what you need, your faith has to be strong. It is through your faith that you will be able to trust in Him and be 100% confident that He will continue to provide for you, now and in the future.  "For truly I tell you, if you have faith the size of a mustard seed, you will say to this mountain, 'Move from here to there,' and it will move; and nothing will be impossible for you." (Matthew 17:20-21). 

Whenever you hear people say, " Leave things up to God, there are two assumptions being made:

1. God is omniscient (all-knowing), omnipotent (all-powerful) & omni- present (all-present); God is everywhere at the same time. He puts us in front of people, locations, or situations. 

2. God's Holy Spirit dwells in us. God's Spirit is always guiding us, teaching us, putting thoughts in our minds, helping us remember his word, prompting us, giving us solutions, speaking to us, giving us directions, and showing us testimonials. 

Trusting God is the most difficult thing to do, but He is always there helping us. Our job is to pray, pray, pray so that our faith can increase to the point that we learn not to doubt him. The more He is in our lives, the stronger our relationship with him will be. 

God really loves us very much. God is a very loving God and cares about us. Sometimes, we don't feel his presence because we are always trying to be independent of him. God wants to be a part of our lives too so that He can bless us even more. 

Learn to rely on him all the time and give him credit for everything that happens in your life, whether it's a blessing or a disappointment. God will show you how to enjoy his world and creations the right way, his way! 

 Hebrews 11:1 states what faith is: "Now faith is confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see." Breaking down this verse provides a deeper understanding of the meaning of faith: 

1. Confidence in what we hope for: Faith involves a deep trust and assurance in the fulfillment of God's promises. It is not merely wishful thinking but a firm confidence in the reality of what God has assured us in His Word. 

2. Assurance about what we do not see: Faith extends beyond the realm of the visible and tangible. It involves a conviction and certainty about spiritual truths and realities that may not be immediately apparent to our physical senses. In the context of the Bible, this often refers to trusting in God's existence, His character, and His promises, even when we cannot perceive them with our physical senses. 

This verse suggests that faith is not blind or irrational but is based on a confident trust in the character of God and the reliability of His Word. It's about relying on God's faithfulness, even in situations where the outcome is not immediately visible or understandable. Matthew 17:20: "Because you have so little faith. Truly I tell you, if you have faith as small as a mustard seed, you can say to this mountain, 'Move from here to there,' and it will move. Nothing will be impossible for you. 

 What does this verse refer to: "For what is a man profited, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul?" Matthew 16:26. These words, profound in their simplicity, hold a deep significance that resonates with the core essence of our existence. In a world often consumed by materialistic pursuits and the desire for power, wealth, and success, this verse serves as a poignant reminder of what truly matters. When we consider the concept of gaining the "whole world," it symbolizes the attainment of all worldly possessions, limitless wealth, and boundless authority. It epitomizes a life filled with achievements and accomplishments, where every desire and aspiration is met. On the surface, such a life may seem enviable and desirable, but the verse urges us to pause and reflect. 

 Throughout the Gospels, Jesus speaks extensively about eternal life and its significance. He often refers to it as a gift from God, available to all those who believe in Him and follow His teachings. In John 3:16, Jesus says, "For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life." This verse emphasizes the immense love of God and the opportunity for eternal life through faith in Jesus. Jesus also emphasizes that eternal life is not just a future hope but a present reality. In John 17:3, He says, "Now this is eternal life: that they know you, the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom you have sent." Jesus teaches that knowing God and having a relationship with Him through Jesus is the essence of eternal life. It involves experiencing a deep connection with God and participating in His divine nature. 

 Prayer or Meditation: Many people turn to prayer or meditation to connect with their spirituality and seek guidance. You can express your hopes, fears, and aspirations, and ask for guidance in finding and securing your dream job. Seek guidance from a higher power. Ask for clarity and insight regarding your purpose and the path you should take in your career. 

Faith and Trust: Develop faith and trust that things will unfold as they are meant to. This may involve surrendering some of your worries and anxieties about the future and trusting that a higher power has a plan for you. 

Discernment: Engage in discernment practices. This might include reflecting on your skills, passions, and values to better understand what aligns with your sense of purpose. Seeking guidance in this reflective process can be part of your spiritual practice. 

Community and Support: Seek support from your religious or spiritual community. Share your aspirations and concerns with others who share your beliefs. This can provide emotional support and possibly lead to valuable connections or opportunities. 

Learning and Growth: Consider challenges and setbacks as opportunities for growth. Many religious and spiritual traditions emphasize the importance of learning and personal development. Embrace the journey, and see how challenges can shape you for the better. 

If you have a specific religious or spiritual tradition, consider seeking guidance from a spiritual leader or advisor within your community. It's also important to note that divine intervention may not always align with our immediate desires or expectations. Sometimes the journey itself is part of the plan, and outcomes may unfold in unexpected ways. 

 The Bible provides various perspectives on sickness, and interpretations may vary among different religious traditions and denominations. In general, there are a few themes that are often considered: 

Original Sin: Some interpretations suggest that sickness and suffering entered the world as a consequence of Adam and Eve's disobedience in the Garden of Eden (Genesis 3:16-19). This concept is often referred to as original sin, and it is believed to have introduced sin, death, and suffering into the human experience. 

Spiritual Warfare: In some biblical passages, sickness is associated with spiritual warfare between forces of good and evil. For example, the Bible speaks of Jesus healing those oppressed by the devil (Acts 10:38). 

Testing and Trials: The Bible sometimes portrays sickness as a test or trial that individuals go through. This perspective is seen in the story of Job, where Job experiences immense suffering, including physical ailments, as a part of a larger cosmic trial (Job 2:7). 

Divine Discipline or Chastisement: In certain instances, the Bible suggests that sickness can be a form of divine discipline or chastisement for wrongdoing. The idea is that God may use illness to correct and guide individuals back to righteousness (Deuteronomy 28:58-61). 

Mystery of God's Ways: Ultimately, the Bible acknowledges the mystery of God's ways, and there are instances where the reasons for sickness are not explicitly explained. In such cases, believers are called to trust in God . 

 In Christian theology, sin is generally understood as any action, thought, or behavior that goes against the will of God or violates God's moral law as revealed in the Bible. The concept of sin is central to many Christian denominations, and its understanding can vary to some extent among different traditions. However, there are several key biblical principles that are commonly referred to when discussing sin: 

Disobedience to God's Commands: Sin is often depicted as disobedience to God's commands and instructions. In the Bible, God provides moral guidelines for human conduct, and violations of these guidelines are considered sinful. 

Fallen Nature of Humanity: Many Christians believe that all humans are born with a sinful nature, inherited from the biblical account of Adam and Eve's disobedience in the Garden of Eden. This concept is often referred to as "original sin." 

Separation from God: Sin is seen as creating a separation between humans and God. The Bible teaches that sin disrupts the relationship between God and humanity, requiring reconciliation. 

Missing the Mark: The term "sin" is derived from an archery term in the original biblical languages, suggesting missing the mark or falling short of a standard. Sin, in this sense, is failing to live up to the moral perfection expected by God. 

Violation of Love and Justice: The Bible emphasizes the importance of love, justice, and righteousness. Sin is viewed as actions that violate these principles, harming relationships with both God and fellow humans. 

Individual and Corporate Sin: Sin can be both individual and collective. Individuals are responsible for their personal actions, but communities and societies can also engage in sinful behaviors, leading to social injustice and systemic issues. 

Repentance and Forgiveness: Christianity teaches that, through repentance and faith in Jesus Christ, individuals can find forgiveness and reconciliation with God. The concept of repentance involves turning away from sin and seeking a changed life in alignment with God's will. 

Different Christian denominations may emphasize specific aspects of the understanding of sin, and interpretations can vary. The teachings on sin are found throughout the Bible, including in Old Testament commandments, the teachings of Jesus in the Gospels, and the letters written by apostles in the New Testament. 

 In Christian theology, the Kingdom of God generally refers to the rule or reign of God over all things. It is often associated with a future eschatological state, meaning a state of being that is to come in the future. In this context, the Kingdom of God is seen as the fulfillment of God's ultimate purpose and plan for creation. 

Key aspects and teachings related to the Kingdom of God in Christianity include: 

Present and Future Tense: Some Christian interpretations suggest that the Kingdom of God is both present and future. In the present, it is understood as the rule of God in the hearts of believers and the presence of God's reign in the world. In the future, it is seen as a culmination of God's plan when there will be a new heaven and a new earth. 

Jesus' Teaching: Jesus often spoke about the Kingdom of God in his parables and teachings. He described it in various ways, emphasizing qualities such as righteousness, justice, and mercy. Jesus' proclamation of the Kingdom was a central theme in his ministry. 

Transformation and Redemption: The Kingdom of God is associated with the transformation and redemption of creation. It represents a state where God's will is fully and perfectly realized, bringing about a harmonious and just existence. 

Inclusivity: The Kingdom of God is often portrayed as inclusive, welcoming all who believe and follow God's ways. It transcends societal boundaries and invites people from all backgrounds. 

 13 "You have spoken arrogantly against me," says the Lord.  "Yet you ask, 'What have we said against you?' 14 You have said, 'It is futile to serve God. What do we gain by carrying out his requirements and going about like mourners before the Lord Almighty? 15 But now we call the arrogant blessed. Certainly evildoers prosper, and even when they put God to the test, they get away with it.'" 16 Then those who feared the Lord talked with each other, and the Lord listened and heard. A scroll of remembrance was written in his presence concerning those who feared the Lord and honored his name. 

In this passage, the people of Israel are expressing discontent and questioning the value of serving God. They perceive that those who are arrogant and do not follow God's ways seem to prosper, while those who are faithful feel burdened and gain nothing. The passage emphasizes a dialogue between the people and God, where the people are essentially complaining about the apparent lack of reward for their faithfulness. 

However, in verse 16, there is a shift. It mentions those who "feared the Lord" talking with each other, and the Lord listens and hears. A scroll of remembrance is written concerning those who fear the Lord and honor His name. This suggests that, despite the apparent challenges and disparities, God is aware of the faithful and keeps a record of those who honor Him. 

The passage encourages believers to persevere in their faithfulness to God, assuring them that their commitment does not go unnoticed by the Lord, even if it may seem that the wicked are prospering. It underscores the importance of trusting in God's justice and maintaining faith even in difficult circumstances. 

 "What good will it be for someone to gain the whole world, yet forfeit their soul? Or what can anyone give in exchange for their soul? This verse is Jesus speaking to his disciples about the cost of discipleship and the value of one's soul. The message is a profound reminder that material wealth and worldly success, while they may bring temporary pleasure or gain, are ultimately insignificant compared to the eternal value of one's soul. It emphasizes the idea that spiritual well-being and the state of one's soul are of utmost importance and should not be sacrificed for earthly pursuits. 

This verse reflects a key theme in Jesus' teachings about the priorities of life and the spiritual dimension of human existence. Here are some points to consider: 

Temporal vs. Eternal Perspective: Jesus contrasts the temporary nature of worldly gains with the eternal significance of the soul. Material wealth, power, and success in this world are fleeting, but the soul's destiny has eternal consequences. 

The Value of the Soul: The soul, in this context, represents the core of a person's being—their essence, consciousness, and eternal identity. Jesus is emphasizing that no amount of worldly success is worth the loss of one's soul. 

Cost of Discipleship: This verse is situated in a larger passage where Jesus discusses the cost of being his disciple. He speaks of denying oneself, taking up the cross, and following him. The idea is that following Christ requires a commitment that transcends worldly pursuits. 

Human Priorities: It challenges common human priorities that often center around accumulating wealth, power, or fame. Jesus suggests that focusing solely on these pursuits can lead to spiritual bankruptcy. 

Reflection on True Fulfillment: The verse invites individuals to reflect on what truly brings fulfillment and purpose in life. It suggests that a life centered on spiritual values and a relationship with God has a lasting and meaningful impact. 

Warning Against Idolatry: Pursuing worldly success to the detriment of one's spiritual well-being is a form of idolatry. It places something of temporal value above the eternal value of the soul. 

Unquantifiable Worth of the Soul: The rhetorical question, "What can anyone give in exchange for their soul?" emphasizes the immeasurable worth of the soul. It suggests that there is nothing in this world that can compensate for the loss of one's soul. 

In summary, Matthew 16:26 underscores the idea that a life oriented toward God, righteousness, and spiritual well-being is of supreme importance. It challenges individuals to consider the eternal implications of their choices and priorities in the face of the transient nature of worldly success. 

 As you continue developing your relationship with God and continue waiting for his response, keep in mind that God uses his own timing. 

Consider this verse: "But do not forget this one thing, dear friends: With the Lord a day is like a thousand years, and a thousand years are like a day." 2 Peter 3:8. 

This verse is part of a passage in which the apostle Peter is addressing the delay of the second coming of Jesus Christ. In the broader context (2 Peter 3:3-10), Peter is responding to those who were questioning or doubting the return of Christ. He emphasizes that God's concept of time is different from human understanding, and what may seem like a delay to us is not the same in God's perspective. 

The verse is often interpreted as a reminder that God operates outside of our human understanding of time. It suggests that God's timing is perfect and that His plan is unfolding according to His own divine schedule. This idea is not meant to be a literal equation of a day to a thousand years, but rather an expression of God's sovereignty over time and His faithfulness to fulfill His promises in His own time. 

 Love God with everything you have. Consider these two verses: 

Deuteronomy 6:5: "Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength." 

Matthew 22:37-38: "Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.' This is the first and greatest commandment." 

I remember one day when I came across this verse. At a glance, I read it, and I thought immediately that this would be impossible to achieve, as I had never heard this before from anyone. During that time, I was experiencing depression, and I was attending Mass almost daily. Through my suffering, one day, I was praying to God, and a thought came into my mind. 

This thought basically guided me to tell Jesus: I come to pray every day in the hopes of healing from my depression, but nothing happens. I still feel the same way. A second thought was to ask God for help. In this thought, however, I told Jesus: If the first commandment is to love you the most, above anybody else, help me love you this way. I will continue with my prayers, and I will look for you every day. I will not complain, and I will follow and do whatever you want me to do. I surrender my life to you today! 

That prayer changed my whole outlook on life because I immediately started to feel healing. This day was the day I was waiting for. I got closer to Jesus, and I started to feel his presence even more. The decisions and thoughts I started to have were all of a sudden more meaningful and full of hope.  

 When Jesus said "seek first the kingdom of God," he emphasized prioritizing spiritual values and God's rule in one's life. This teaching encourages individuals to prioritize their relationship with God, live according to moral and ethical principles, and trust in God's guidance for a meaningful and purposeful life. It suggests that by aligning one's priorities with spiritual values, other aspects of life will fall into place. 

When Jesus said, "and everything else will be added to you," he was expressing the idea that when people prioritize their relationship with God and seek His kingdom first, other aspects of their lives—such as material needs, guidance, and blessings—will be taken care of by God. The emphasis is on trusting in God's provision and divine guidance while maintaining a focus on spiritual values. It conveys the idea that by seeking God's kingdom first, individuals can find fulfillment and have their essential needs met.