Faith +

God’s Presence “The Lord your God is with you, the Mighty Warrior who saves. He will take great delight in you; in his love he will no longer rebuke you, but will rejoice over you with singing.”         (Zephaniah 3:17) This powerful verse from Zephaniah speaks of a God who is not distant and far or indifferent, but deeply involved in the lives of His people. The verse is a promise for us of God’s presence in our lives. In the verse, God is described as a Mighty Warrior, strong and capable of saving. But more than a protector, He is also a loving Father who takes delight in us. The verse speaks of God rejoicing over us with singing that is intimate and tender, showing us that His presence is not just protective but also personal and full of joy. Living God’s Presence in our Modern Life In today’s fast-paced AI age we are digitally connected, but in living we are living in an isolated world, many struggling with anxiety, loneliness, and uncertain about the future. The assurance of God’s presence in our lives offers us profound peace. When at work, in a hospital room, struggling personal failures and finances, or celebrating a joyful moment, there is a promise of God’s presence in our lives which is living in us. God walks with us in pain and rejoices with us in our Earthly triumphs. The Holy Spirit, given to us as believers, is a constant reminder of God’s presence. Through prayers, scriptures, worship, and support of our Christian brethren, we can sense God’s nearness even in the busiest or darkest of days. Living with Awareness of God’s Presence In Prayer: Speak with God honestly and frequently (He is always listening) In Decisions: Seek God’s guidance and support. (He is present and willing to lead) In Struggles: Remember your journey of life is not alone (The Mighty Warrior fights for you) In Joy: Gives thanks and praise God always (God rejoices with you)     God’s presence is not a distant (in the sky) theological idea, it’s a daily living reality. When we live are days, aware of God’s presence, we find peace, strength, and purpose. Let Zephaniah 3:17 remind us that we are loved, seen, and never forsaken. God is Always with us, and He delights in us. Amen A Story of Strength A Quite Whisper in Storm Rachel was driving alone in her car, hands trembling on the steering wheel. The Doctor’s words were still echoing in her ears. “It’s Cancer” Everything seem to be fading now, her dreams, her future, even her prayers. For days she couldn’t speak to anyone, not even to God, she’s always been a good prayerful Christian, Why me? was her constant questioning to the sight of the crucifix. She felt abandoned, her faith buried under fear. But one night, unable to sleep, she opened the Bible. Her eyes fell on Isaiah 41:10 “Do not fear for I am with you, do not be dismayed, for I am your God”. The verse seem to be a blessing, a lightning of grace, a warmth filled her heart, like someone gently placing a hand on her shoulder. It seemed like a whisper within her that was speaking to her, “I’m still here.” That moment changed everything. God’s presence didn’t erase the disease, but it filled her with peace, strength and resistance. Rachael had survived the bitterness that tried to take root inside her peace and she accepted this condition with its pain, treatments, and unknowns with grace and as a will of God. Her smile became brighter, not because the burden was gone, but because she no longer carried it alone. Years later, now in remission, Rachel shares her story at support groups, always ending with, “I thank God, not because life is easy, but because He never left me in the storm”   For Rachel, God’s presence was in the quite whisper in the storm…    

Embracing God 1 John 2:12-17 contains two main messages: reassurance to believers and a warning against loving the world. John addresses Christians of various spiritual stages, children, fathers, and young men.   Children: Their sins are forgiven and they know the Father. Symbolizes new believers (converts) or those early in faith. (young children) Fathers: Their sins are forgiven and they know the Father. Represent mature Christians who have a deep, longstanding relationship with God.   Young Men: They are strong, God’s word abides in them, and they have overcome the evil one. Symbolizes those who are spiritually strong and vigorous.   Further in verses 15-17, John instructs believers not to love the world or its things. “The world” here refers to the values and desires opposed to God, such as: Lust of the Flesh Lust of the eyes Pride of life and things.   All these are described as fleeting and short lived and not from God. John warns that these worldly desires are temporary and will pass away, but whoever does the will of God will live forever.  The passage contrasts eternal life for those who do God’s will with the temporary nature and pleasures of this world.    These verses reassures all believers that they are included in God’s family, urging them to always be in faith and in spiritual maturity.  

Prayer In Christ In Christ What does this Verse mean? This verse reflects the Apostle Paul’s deep trust in Jesus. It doesn’t mean we can do anything we want, but that we can endure all situations, hardship or success, with the strength Christ gives us. Paul was speaking from experience, having gone through hunger, prison, and persecution, yet he remained content and strong because of Christ. How can we live it? When life feels overwhelming, whether it’s pressure at work, struggles in relationships, or battles within, remember that your strength doesn’t have to come from within. Invite Christ into your challenge. His power fills your weakness. Speak this verse over your day as a reminder that with Christ, you are never powerless.

As we live our lives, our days will be filled with happiness, joy, pain and sufferings. We can feel burdened and overwhelmed, losing hope in our giver of life. Bible is the healing grace, the spirit of God talking to us, comforting us, easing us, strengthening us. Bible Bible is God communicating with us.   The “Word of God” is a healer. In faith we should consume the word in the Holy Bible and let it change our mindset, our heart and bring in us a spirit of being an instrument of God’s will.   Find below 10 verses from the Bible when in struggles of modern living… 10 Verses from the Bible when in Struggles of Modern Living When you Feel Anxious or Overwhelmed Philippians 4:6-7 – “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.” When you Face Financial Struggles Matthew 6:31-33 – “So do not worry, saying, ‘What shall we eat?’ or ‘What shall we drink?’ or ‘What shall we wear?’ For the pagans run after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them. But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.” When you Feel alone or unloved Isaiah 41:10 – “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.” When you Need Strength to Keep Going 2 Corinthians 12:9 – “But he said to me, ‘My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.’ Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me.” When you are struggling with Temptation 1 Corinthians 10:13 – “No temptation has overtaken you except what is common to mankind. And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can endure it.” When you Feel Hopeless about the Future Jeremiah 29:11 – “For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” When you are Tired and Weary Matthew 11:28 – “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.” When you Need Wisdom for Difficult Decisions James 1:5 – “If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you.” When you’re Seeking Purpose or Direction Philippians 4:6“Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God” God has not forgotten your purpose—even if you feel lost. When you’re Battling Depression and Emptiness Psalm 42:11 “Why, my soul, are you downcast?… Put your hope in God.”     Reading the Bible is more than a religious habit, Bible is not just an ancient book, it’s a life line for daily battles. It reminds us that we are not alone, not forgotten, and not without purpose. When everything around us is shifting, God’s promises in the “Holy Bible” is unchanging. His word becomes our strength, our guide, and our peace. The Bible recognizes your inner sorrow and also leads you to hope. “Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.” (Psalm 119:105)   Bible is the food for our soul, read it every day.  God speaks to you through the ‘Holy Bible’

Praying for Peace “And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”     (Philippians 4:7) What does it mean? God’s peace is deeper than human logic. It calms our hearts and minds, even when circumstances don’t make sense. Living the Promise Lord, “Peace be with you” were the first words that you spoke on meeting the apostles after resurrection. This peace by you Jesus was a blessing that we too seek in our lives. All wealth and fame would mean nothing without your peace in our lives.  “Lord, guard our mind and heart.” We hope and trust in you alone Jesus. Let your peace always flow in our lives and living situations. Bless us with the grace to have you always in our spirit and mind so we are always enveloped in your protective peace. We make this prayer in the holy name of Jesus, Amen. Peace