Category Archives: Spiritual Maturity

What I Learned in 2025: How I Got Over

January 27, 2026 ITWMinistries Leave a comment

How I Got Over.

In the 70’s, Aretha Franklin recorded the song, “How I Got Over”. It declares, in amazement, at the end of each chorus, “My soul looks back and wonders, how I got over.”

2025 was a hard year for me—emotionally, physically, and spiritually. Emotionally, I was daily challenged to understand how to process the hateful rhetoric that was rapidly emerging in our nation. Rhetoric that threatened my personal rights provided by our democratic systems. Physically, my health reflected a decline that sometimes comes with aging. Some were heredity; others were the effect of poor lifestyle choices. Spiritually, the Lord stretched me with people and experiences that challenged my trust and obedience to Him. “Pray for my enemy? Really?”

With that as my backdrop, I now take this opportunity to reflect on the past year and ask, “what have I learned?” Like the Sankofa bird of African folklore, what will I leave behind in 2025 and what will I take with me as I enter this new year.

Learn from Me.

In Matthew 11:28-30, Jesus offers Himself as the remedy to the emotional, physical, and spiritual weight pressing His Disciples and His followers in that day. His offer? “Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me.”

Learn (man-than’-o) means to increase one’s knowledge. It is further defined that the knowledge should be like that of the one teaching it. For the stress of 21^st century living, Jesus is the source of all knowledge and understanding. He continues to be “the way, the truth, and the life.” (John 14:6)

As we grow in the knowledge of Christ, the true SOURCE, we are drawn closer to Him, we become more like Him (2 Corinthians 3:18). We learn by becoming single-minded and committed to the things of God. This strengthens our resolve during hard times, resulting in “strength to prevail”.

How do we tap into the power that prevails? It starts with what I call being single-hearted. We are single hearted when we cherish God above all things. Scripture promises that God will come to those who are single hearted. (2 Chronicles 16:9). God gives the strength that prevails to those whose hearts are fully given over to him. (Luke 21:34-35)[1]

What I will leave?

In the tradition of the Sankofa bird, in 2026, what will I leave behind and what will I take with me?

I leave behind those things that hinder me emotionally, physically, and spiritually. The lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of Life. (1 John 2:15-16, NKJV)

These are listed by the Apostle John as those things that keep us connected to the world. Lust is a powerful and complex emotion, often characterized by intense desire and attraction. They lead us away from our relationship with God.

Lusts keep us tethered to “our flesh” with desires that ultimately corrupt and erode our love for the things of God and the life we have in Christ. Lust holds our soul’s hostage (mind, will, and emotions) by promising things that will never satisfy. Lust will continue to demand more.

What I will take?

I will take with me those things that have served me well. These represent key learnings in 2025. If I had to choose one broad header it would be seeking God and being in His presence. Especially rewarding has been practicing the discipline of silence and solitude.

In those moments where there is an absence of talking, there is the great reward of hearing Jesus speak. It may be through God’s Word that captures my attention during meditation. During moments of submission, I empty myself to make room for God’s Spirit, which becomes divine wisdom for the days ahead.

If I follow my plan for 2026, I pray I will be able to see not only “how I got over” but WHY I got over. It’s not necessarily the WHAT but the WHO!

[1] Resilient, John Elderidge, “The Strength that Prevails”, 51-52

Spiritual Maturity

Livin’ my Best Life: Best Life Recapitulated

June 24, 2025 ITWMinistries Leave a comment

Recapitulated—What have we learned?

Recapitulate means to summarize and state again the main point.

These past few weeks we’ve been attempting to define what “best life” looks like. We began by evaluating best life from a worldview. In fairness to this overall process, we also considered the biblical perspective. Before moving forward, a decision was needed as to which view believers were to follow.

It was at this point that a decision was needed. Believers must draw a spiritual dividing line in order to insure that the influence of the flesh and the world cannot remove our distinctive difference.

Using the Bible as the final authority on what we embrace and follow in our lives, believers are to follow God’s definition of best life based on our new life and new allegiance to God (2 Cor. 5:15-17). We are also to focus on eternal things and “life outcomes” that are god-honoring.

Time to Decide

Based on what we have learned, there are two questions that may help us finalize our description of best life.

The first question was asked and answered last week: “What does God say about best life?”

The second question is this. Of the two views (worldview and biblical view), which one is more likely to satisfy the longing that we may have? Self-directed or Christ-directed?

If we reach self-actualization in Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs, are we guaranteed that we will be content and fulfilled? Those we see as “having it all” still deal with dissatisfaction in their life. Self-actualization may not give all it promises as evidenced by the incidents of depression, substance abuse, and suicide among great artists, celebrities, and business moguls.

For those of us who identified with the things people wanted in life, the question is the same. Does possession of any or all those items on the “wish list” guarantee contentment? Remember there was only one tangible item on the list—money. The rest were intangibles—unable to be touched or grasped but understood or felt in the heart.

Let’s find a Best Life SME (Subject Matter Expert)

At this point, what might be helpful would be to interview someone who had not only pursued best life but also attained it. They had reached self-actualization and the one tangible (money) on the “10 Most Wanted” list.

In addition, this person should be familiar with “spiritual” options. Let me introduce our special SME, King Solomon, the king of the United Kingdom of Israel.

Solomon was a fabulously wealthy and sensible king of the United Kingdom of Israel who succeeded his father, King David. Solomon was the biblical king most famous for his wisdom. God granted Solomon not only wisdom but also great wealth and fame because he did not ask for self-serving rewards. (1 Kings 3:7-14).

Solomon authored the book of Ecclesiastes, in which, he built the case to show that the pursuits of this world are vanity. “Vanity of vanities, all is vanity” (Ecc. 1:2). Vanity in this context is the quality of being worthless or futile. Ecclesiastes is located with the other wisdom literature of the Old Testament.

Chapter after chapter, Solomon (“The Preacher” as he identifies himself) presents the case that the vanities of this world are insufficient to make us happy. He contrasts the vileness of sin, and its certain tendency to make us miserable, with the wisdom of being religious (godly and god-honoring). Our well-being and satisfaction are only possible through our allegiance to God and our love for man.

In closing, Solomon, by way of exhortation, directs his readers (and us 21^st century believers) to remember our Creator, to fear Him, and to keep His commandments. Solomon gives no recommendation to pursue best life.

Conclusion

God alone can satisfy our hierarchy of needs—basic, psychological, and self-fulfilling. God is our Jehovah-Jireh (Gen. 22:14). Our intangible desires are readily available through God’s Spirit (Gal. 5: 22-23).

King Solomon, the Apostle Paul, and more importantly, Jesus have given us the essence of what best life looks like. It is not a list of “dos and don’ts” but a standard of life.

Livin’ our best life is…

- a life style that acknowledges the reality of God. God is the Creator and Source of all life who has been uniquely made known to us through His Son Jesus Christ. We live confidently in the reality of His presence, His power, and His provision. (Acts 17:28)

- a life choice that recognizes the authority of God in our life. God’s will and purpose for our lives is revealed in His Word and through the indwelling of the Holy Spirit. We choose to trust in the goodness and greatness of God to direct our life’s journey. (Gal. 2:20)

- a life vocation that commits to the purpose God has chosen for us. We are persuaded that the Kingdom of God has arrived in the coming of Jesus Christ and is imminent in Jesus’ return. We, therefore, focus our energies on doing those things that honors and glorifies God. (Phil. 3:12-14)

Livin’ our best life can only be realized through a relationship with God and in Christ Jesus. Through this relationship, we have all things that pertain to life and godliness (2 Pet. 1:3-4) and blessings that exceed our expectations (Ep. 1: 3-14). Therefore, in Christ, we are livin’ our best life.

Spiritual Maturity

Livin’ my Best Life: The Answer for Best Life

June 17, 2025 ITWMinistries Leave a comment

Options for best life

The 21st century offers many options for our lives. That is why it is important that we, as believers, discern what voice we “actively” listen to. This is especially true when it comes to determining what living our best life should look like.

In our series, we determined that some individuals make their choice based on who they are and what’s important to them. Last week we attempted to identify what best life looks like. We determined that the essence of best life can be based on our human needs and things we most desire.

So, what is the answer for best life! I concluded last week’s teaching with a statement that will help to set the context for best life for believers in the 21^st century. Which choice most accurately represents “best life for us”? For believers, we are to go to The Source, Who is to be the final authority on everything we do (or it should be). That authority is God and His Word. It is now time to consider the number one question, “what does God say about best life.”

The Dividing Line

The believer’s life is to look vastly different from the world we live in. We are to seriously demonstrate and witness to our new life in Christ. That being the case, our best life should reflect a life lived for Christ.

The Barna Institute reports the increasing difficulty in distinguishing believers from the unsaved world. Unfortunately, we are not seen as living any differently than our unsaved family, friends, and acquaintances. We have basically lost our saltiness and our light (Matt. 5:13-16).

This lack of distinction could be attributed to a number of factors including fear of abuse, lack of spiritual discipling, or spiritual immaturity. Some believers have even walked away from the traditional Church because of personal wounding or disillusionment with leadership. What the future Church looks like, especially after COVID-19, is yet to be determined.

However, the imperfect nature of the Church does not negate the expectation that God has for His people. We are to continually examine ourselves to insure we are living a life of faith under the direction of Jesus’ Holy Spirit (2 Pet. 1:10). What does best life look like for believers?

Caution

Jesus shared what best life “was not” in the Sermon on the Mount Discourse. He gives a command that will provide us a framework for identifying what best life looks like. Jesus begins with his first instruction (Matt. 6:19-21).

Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy and where thieves break in and steal; but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.

Jesus closes with this requirement (Matt. 6:33).

But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you.

The verb “seek” is an imperative in the Greek language. An imperative expresses a command to the hearer to perform a certain action by the order and authority of the one commanding. What Jesus gives is not a casual invitation but an absolute command requiring full obedience. “All these things” lovingly includes not only our needs but also the desires of our heart (Ps. 37:4).

Jesus knows we have needs. It is His desire that we not worry nor become preoccupied with possession of things. By faith we know that we will be cared for. Focusing on Christ lessens our anxieties as we attempt to live during these uncertain times (Phil. 4:6-7).

Moving to best life

The Apostle Paul further clarified Jesus’ teaching to the church at Colosse. He pointed them to how to find best life (Col. 3:1-2).

If then you were raised with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ is, sitting at the right hand of God. Set your mind on things above, not on things on the earth.

Seek and set are also verbs that are in the imperative. As with Jesus’ use in Matthew, it expresses a command to the hearer to perform a certain action. It is not an invitation. Both verbs are in the present tense which means it is a fact or reality occurring in actual time. Therefore, we are commanded to keep seeking and keep setting our attention. Where?

Notice the place where the “things and the affections” are found. They are not on this earth but in heaven. This directs our attention to those things that have eternal value and heavenly consequences. Unfortunately, 21st century technology has created vehicles to capture the lusts of our flesh, our eye, and the pride of life (1 John 2:15-17). We are continually bombarded with marketing messages and media that focus our attention on what we don’t have versus what is of greater value to the kingdom of God.

In the remainder of Colossians 3, Paul maps out the essence of best life for Christians. Best life for Christians is life lived in Coram Deo. Coram Deo summarizes the idea that Christian living is lived in the presence of, under the authority of, to the honor and glory of God.

We will conclude this study next week as we decide what best life looks like for each of us.

Spiritual Maturity

Livin’ my Best Life: What is best for me?

June 10, 2025 ITWMinistries Leave a comment

What’s best life for me?

In this series, we’ve seen what best life looks like for a variety of people. It is evident, at this point, that best life looks differently to others based on who they are and what is important to them.

For some, best life means the ability to “give back” to the world. For others it’s about being authentic and true to their beliefs. And to many, it is simply a whimsical phrase similar to that used by the meerkat, Timon in Lion King: “Hakuna Matata” or “no worries”.

We’ve examined the views of others in hopes that it will assist us as we attempt to formulate what best life looks like for each of us. Now it’s time to begin forming our own definition.

What are we looking for?

I think we can all agree that best life is purely subjective. Because of that, it is difficult and would be presumptuous for me to define best life for individuals. Instead, I’d like to offer a way to begin to capture the essence of best life.

The essence of best life could be summarized using two perspectives: (1) what are people’s basic needs, and (2) what are the things people want in life but can’t seem to get? In answering these questions, we might begin to decide what our best life might look like.

What do we need?

What are people’s basic needs? Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs is used to study how humans are motivated by defining their basic needs. Maslow used the terms “physiological”, “safety”, “belonging and love”, “social needs” or “esteem”, and “self-actualization” to describe the pattern through which human motivations generally move.

Perhaps best life includes those things that address people’s needs. Best life for a homeless person would be found in the physiological category. Food security, clean water, and shelter would be as good as it gets. For the person experiencing isolation due to any number of factors, being accepted and belonging is the best life they could imagine.

What do we want?

What are the things people want in life but can’t seem to get? The Huffington Post asked that question and the answer resulted in ten items. The key question this survey probed was this: “If you could say in one word what you want more of in life, what would that be?”

Happiness
Money
Freedom
Peace
Joy
Balance
Fulfillment
Confidence
Stability
Passion

In review of this list, it is surprising to note that of the ten items, there is only one that is tangible. The remaining nine are intangible. Something intangible can’t be touched physically, but most of the time it is understandable or even felt in the heart. In accounting, an intangible asset is something that provides long-term benefit.

It is important to know that this survey was completed prior to the COVID pandemic. However, I’m sure the answers are still very relevant today. Please note what people see as the “biggest challenge” to getting what they want. Perhaps these “unmet needs” could be added to the list that may represent best life.

Basic needs or intangible wants? Which most accurately represents “best life”? Especially for me. To this point, our examination has considered the world’s view of best life. It’s now time to consider what God has to say.

Spiritual Maturity

Livin’ my Best Life: You asked for it!

June 3, 2025 ITWMinistries Leave a comment

From basics to best

As we discussed last week, best life is something that seems to have the attention of many people. Each generation has made it its pursuit as they moved forward in time.

In the 19^th century, our desire was for the basics—food, shelter, and security. In the 20^th century that desire morphed into a good job, a reasonable mortgage (so we could still travel), and a healthy 401K. Now we have our eyes on electric cars that drive themselves and tickets into space. Sorry, but we all can’t be Elon Musk or Jeff Bezos. I guess their “best life” means more than being a billionaire.

Messaging, media, and marketing

The 21^st century has introduced for our consideration, a variety of views as to what best life is. The range of differences in its description demonstrate the subjective nature of this topic.

Cultural messaging, media, and marketing are successfully redefining what best life looks like. Our expanded technology has now positioned companies (we don’t even know) to “popup’ advertisement as to what they think will appeal to our “unique definition” of best life.

The difference in best life views can depend on any number of factors. Many authors and musicians have used the best life mantra to help us develop a definition that best fits our life and circumstance. Even WikiHow got into the act. Author, Guy Reichard, offers a four-part blueprint for designing our best life.

Last week we offered the belief that, for the believer, best life is dependent on our reality, our identity, and our purpose. We now share, for your consideration, some other “views” on best life.

Oprah’s best life

“Live your best life.” These four simple words, made famous by Oprah Winfrey, give a single instruction to follow for happiness and success. While the quote is priceless in its meaning and simplicity, it leaves much to our individual imagination as to what that includes.

While there are more descriptions contained in her book, Live Your Best Life, Oprah offers some clarity to her best life description.

I learned when you use the energy of why you were born in service to something that is bigger than yourself, then goodness and greatness come to you. Because that’s where the real power lies. When you can use your personality to serve others rather than yourself.

Best life views

Since the initial citing of the phrase in Oprah’s book in 2005, there have been many other “opinions” added to the contemporary tapestry of American life. The Urban Dictionary[1], most popular definition for best life was this.

A stupid phrase that is used, commonly on Instagram, to give the false reality that you can wake up and choose which “life” you want to live. Perhaps you want to be a lazy dog, or a human facing the challenge of whether to have avocado on toast or a green smoothie for breakfast. Either way, it’s got to be the best (breakfast) life you could possibly be living.

Comedian Lil Duval earned his first No. 1 on the R&B/Hip-Hop Airplay chart with his debut solo single “Smile (Living My Best Life)”. The feel-good track features Ball Greezy and Snoop Dogg. Sorry but I really can’t include the exact wording from the song. You might ask your children or grandchildren. When asked to give his definition of best life, DuVal shared these thoughts.

Just living in your means. Living with whatever you have at that point. Being happy with it — and when you’re happy where you are, you can grow even more. You’re not chasing somebody else’s perception.

Developing our own view

I close with input from a fellow blogger (which I usually don’t do). But I feel their description might be helpful in developing our own view. They write to a “20 somethings” audience which, in my mind, is an important generation for our future. They open referencing Oprah’s original casting of the best life phrase.

Her (Oprah) personal brand and mantra is centered around self-growth, reaching new heights, and finding meaning. These are all ideas that we, as a society, constantly try to work towards, and I think these are concepts that can truly help us elevate and live more fulfilling versions of our lives.

Thus, I think the most beneficial and realistic explanation of what “living your best life” means is as follows: One that encompasses reaching new levels of self-awareness and self-growth, that ultimately leads to taking actions that help you to discover and hone into your interests, talents, and passions. Living your best life is truly subjective, so an explanation such as this one allows for the unique life experiences that everyone has.

I invite you to spend some time this week thinking about your personal definition of best life. Without one, we are subject to the influence of others who may not understand God’s will and purpose for our life. Choose one (or all) of the following readings to help you begin formulating what your best life looks like. Listen for God’s Spirit as He speaks to your spirit.

Psalms 34
Ecclesiastes 11-12
Matthew 6

[1] Urban Dictionary is a crowdsourced online dictionary for slang words and phrases, operating under the motto “Define Your World.” The website was founded in 1999 by Aaron Peckham. Originally, Urban Dictionary was intended as a dictionary of slang or cultural words and phrases not typically found in standard dictionaries, but it is now used to define any word, event, or phrase.

Spiritual Maturity

Livin’ my Best Life: What is it?

May 27, 2025 ITWMinistries Leave a comment

“I’m livin’ my best life!”

When you hear this statement, what comes to mind? During a recent conversation with a dear friend, she shared that her son was visiting California. When asked how he was enjoying his trip, he replied, “I’m livin’ my best life!”

Therein marks the genesis for this new series. As I listen to radio talk podcasts and television talk shows, this statement is frequently given as a response to current living. But what does it mean? It is my intent to explore with you what “best life” looks like. Viewed through both contemporary and biblical lenses, we hope that we as believers will walk away with a better understanding of the “best definition”.

The worldview of best life

In the 21^st century we live in, we are continually bombarded with information. This includes what “best life” looks like.

Reality television has given us an “upfront” yet distorted seat of what the best life looks like. We can quickly access via our devices how celebrities and luminaries live their lives. Unfortunately, these personalities have a great influence on how we think life is to be lived. Right or wrong.

In the 20th century, we were busy trying to “keep up with the Joneses.” This is the 21^st century! Forget about the Joneses! Let’s keep up with the Kardashians, Housewives of whatever city, or the young people Growing up Hip Hop. If I did not list your favorite “go to show” for seeing how the other half lives, I’ll let you fill in the blank.

Of course, these “made-for-tv” realities don’t show the other side of that golden coin. We later see the impact of the “best life” played out in the media as we see broken relationships and the emotional carnage left behind.

Why is this important?

Our view of “best life” can impact every area of our life. Pursuit of the best life (ill-defined) can lead us down paths that will result in bad decisions, unrealistic expectations, and wasted energy. Even more risky is when the quest is for something that can never satisfy (Is. 55:2).

This best life journey usually begins with misleading us into believing how quickly we can have it. Credit cards, payday loans, and quick financing make our best life just a click or signature away. “Why wait when you can have it now?”

When taking a look at how specific types of debt have shifted since 2019, mortgage loans, auto loans, student loans and personal loans all reached new record highs. Student loan debt saw the largest growth (12%), followed by mortgage debt (7%) and personal loan debt (6%), according to Experian data from Q3 2020.

From a faith perspective, the pursuit of best life, creates spiritual tension for the believer. We are told to seek first the kingdom of God first (Matt. 6:33) and to set our mind on things above (Col. 3:2). Does that mean we cannot pursue our “best life”? No. Remember Jesus came that we might have life and have it more abundantly (John 10:10). That sounds like best life to me!

Best life guidelines

First, we as believers, operate from a different reality than the world. Our reality is based on God’s goodness and God’s greatness. We do not depend nor trust on material gain to experience our best life. God is our exceeding, great reward (Gen. 15:1). To focus on the “lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life” (1 John 2:15-17) can potentially lead us to sin and other moral failures.

Secondly, we remember our identity and who we are in Christ. When we became believers, we were adopted into the kingdom of God (Eph. 1:5). That new relationship came with many blessings and promises that provide for our livelihood (2 Pet. 1:3-4). Best life is defined by what God has outlined in His Word. The Holy Spirit uses that Word to reform (renew) our hearts and minds so that we look and act like Jesus. When people look at us, they should see Jesus (not what we have or who we are).

Finally, we strive to achieve the purpose which God designed specifically for our lives. Before the foundations of the world, God identified the purpose for our lives (Ep. 2:10). The Holy Spirit empowers us to accomplish that purpose (Act 1:8). It is our privilege to walk in God’s purpose.

More to come

Livin’ our best life is more than a catchy phrase or personal mantra. When we speak of our best life, we are revealing what is most important to us. It is also an indicator of who is in charge of our life.

In Colossians 3:1-4 (NLT), the Apostle Paul gives good advice on discovering our “real best life”:

Since you have been raised to new life with Christ, set your sights on the realities of heaven, where Christ sits at God’s right hand in the place of honor and power. Let heaven fill your thoughts. Do not think only about things down here on earth. For you died when Christ died, and your real life is hidden with Christ in God. And when Christ, who is your real life, is revealed to the whole world, you will share in all his glory.

Spiritual Maturity

Clarion Word Classics: The Way of the Heart

May 20, 2025 ITWMinistries Leave a comment

The Intent of the Clarion Word Classics:

The word “clarion” comes from the Latin word claru or ‘clear’. Our intent with this quarterly series is to make “loud and clear” what is ours in Christ and as children of God (Romans 8:17).

We will share faith writings from key theologians who will strengthen and enrich our spiritual lives and faith walk. This includes such sage theologians and writers such as J.I. Packer, Oswald Chambers, and C.S. Lewis.

We will also introduce contemporary writers who express spiritual answers to the challenges of 21st century living. These include such authors as Priscilla Shirer, Alistair Begg, and Bruce L. Fields.

Clarion Word Classics is intended to make us “think and feel”. It is about how we live our lives and community in “coram Deo”[1].

This Quarter’s Clarion:

The Way of the Heart: Desert Spirituality and Contemporary Ministry By Henri J.M. Nouwen.

Area of focus: Spirituality. Specifically, contemplative[2] living. I think this book, though short in length (94 pages) is best understood in small bite sizes. This will allow you to take a “Selah” moment and reflect on what Nouwen is saying and how it relates to our world, our church, and of course, each of us.

Relevancy: Though published in 1981, the current environment in our nation and world continue to cause major fear and concern as to our well-being. These are shaped by global crises, technological change, social dynamics, and economic uncertainty. All contribute to a noticeable rise in various mental health issues which continue to get worse.

How does Nouwen’s address our 21^st century milieu (setting, environment, situation)? There is a general feeling by believers (and nonbelievers) that “something is missing” in their current walk of faith. Something that can’t be satisfied with one more Bible study, workshop, or conference. We want a more intimate relationship with God. We want more of Him!

What do I like about the book?

Its brevity.
Though the book was written to ministers and those in pastoral service, every person, in reading this, will find that it also applies to them as they pursue a closer walk with Jesus. That’s where the Holy Spirit does His best work.
This modern classic (oxymoron) interweaves the solitude, silence, and prayer of the fourth-and fifth-century Egyptian Desert Fathers and Mothers with our contemporary search for an authentic spirituality.

Nothing new under the sun.

Many of the teachings of contemporary spirituality writers[3] have been able to put the principles shared in this book into practices that can be incorporated into our daily life, i.e., the PAUSE principle, use of solitude and silence, meditation techniques, and short prayers.

The key intent of solitude, silence, and prayer is intimacy with God. The mistaken view we currently have of each of these spiritual disciplines has led to our missing the true value of the discipline—namely, to be with God and in His presence. To hear as God speaks to us. To embrace these disciplines as “time for transformation”. To eliminate the things (and people) that interfere with our relationship with God. To become kingdom people—ready to serve humanity. Below are a few observations that will whet our appetite for learning more.

Are you ready?

I have chosen to share excerpts from the PROLOGUE of The Way of the Heart to introduce Nouwen’s thoughts on contemplative living and its value to us navigating 21^st century living. I guarantee you will love his writing and the spiritual insights he offers.

[1] Coram Deo is a Latin phrase translated, “in the presence of God.” It has its origin in Christian theology and summarizes the idea of Christian living: in the presence of, under the authority of, to the honor and glory of God. Life is to be lived coram Deo.

[2] “expressing or involving prolonged thought”

[3] John Eldredge, Resilient; Restoring Your Weary Soul in the Turbulent Times; John Piper, A Hunger for God

Spiritual Maturity

Spiritual Sight: A Deeper Perspective, Part 2

April 8, 2025 ITWMinistries Leave a comment

Looking beyond what we can see

The ability to see has been associated with many things in the biblical record. It has been linked to wisdom (Job 42:5), to salvation (Ephesians 1:18), and to discernment (John 7:24). This is by no means an exhaustive list, but it helps to expand our understanding of spiritual sight. Spiritual sight help us to “look beyond what we can see”.

To see or not to see

The prophet Jeremiah was a heartbroken prophet with a heartbreaking message. He labored for more than 40 years proclaiming a message of doom to the stiff-necked people of Judah.

Hear this now, O foolish people, Without understanding, Who have eyes and see not, And who have ears and hear not: (Jeremiah 5:21-29)

Despite Jeremiah’s many warnings, they did not see that their behavior was headed for a collision with the judgment of God. Judah continued to worship idols, disobey God’s covenant, and practice social injustice. Their lack of vision and refusal to surrender to God’s will resulted in exile to Babylon for 70 years. Judah’s loyalty had become divided and had blinded her to the things of God.

How would we evaluate our current world and the choices being made? Who has eyes and sees not and ears yet hears not?

Barriers to seeing spiritually

The “usual suspects” stand as barriers to using our spiritual sight. They are our flesh, the world, and Satan.

Our flesh is the natural or “unredeemed” part of us that take us away from the purpose of God. Our flesh sees with natural eyes and refuses to obey the leading of the Holy Spirit. Paul the Apostle notes that it is impossible for the natural man to see with spiritual eyes (1 Corinthians. 2:13-16).

The world is that which is contrary to the things of God. It includes the lusts of the flesh, the lust of the eye, and the pride of life (1 John 2:16). We are told by the Apostle John, that those who love the world do not love God (1 John 2:15). Divided loyalty ultimately leads to disobedience (Titus 1:16).

Satan does what Satan always does: he discourages, he deceives, and he destroys. Of all the barriers, Satan is the greatest challenge. Why? Because most people don’t believe he exists. He remains the unseen “puppeteer behind the curtain”. But be assured he is very real. Look for him where there is conflict, confusion, and chaos (James 3:16). However, to see him, we will need our spiritual sight.

Our flesh, the world, and Satan keep us from viewing the world as it really exists. In addition, the postmodern, 21^st century worldview has created a “distorted” picture of what we see. This is especially true with identifying sin.

Our “spiritual sensibilities” are slowly being dulled. The ultimate goal, of course, is complete spiritual blindness.

How do we gain spiritual sight?

First and foremost, we need to follow the leading of the Holy Spirit. Jesus shared with His Disciples the importance of the Holy Spirit in guiding them in all truth (John 16:13-14). Each day it is important that we invite the Holy Spirit to join us through reading scripture, meditation, and prayer. As we do, we train our spirit man to “listen for the Spirit’s voice” as He communicates with us.

Secondarily, we can practice the presence of the Holy Spirit. Practicing the Holy Spirit’s presence acknowledges the fact that God, in all His fullness, is always with us (Psalm 139:7-12). Because of that, we should not limit this practice to our devotion and prayer time only but also include it in our “normal rhythm of life“.

Finally, we must be intentional in our pursuit of the knowledge of God and our growth in Jesus Christ (2 Peter 3:18). Seeing with spiritual sight is not a natural attribute for believers. Therefore, it must be developed.

Give all diligence

The Apostle Peter describes this process as “giving all diligence to add to our faith” (2 Peter 1:5-8). Diligence translated means earnestness in accomplishing, promoting, or striving after anything. Peter describes the results for believers who lack that diligence: “They are short-sighted, even to blindness…” (2 Peter 1:9)

Let us make a commitment today to develop our spiritual sight. While it’s been said that “the eyes are the windows of the soul”, it is more important to believe that spiritual sight will “keep your soul.” (Matthew 6:22-24).

Spiritual Maturity

Spiritual Sight: A Deeper Perspective, Part 1

April 1, 2025 ITWMinistries Leave a comment

An invitation

When I begin my daily devotions, I open with Psalm 119:18: Open my eyes, that I may see wondrous things from Your law. My favorite teacher, Alistar Begg, often begins his bible study sessions with this prayer, “Make the book come alive to me.”

Our intent is the same though our approach may differ. We invite the Holy Spirit to join us as our Teacher, as we seek God’s instruction for our life. Doing this, we are better able to navigate in this post-modern world where there are no absolutes nor acceptable standards of rightness.

As we examine our current society, it appears what is right or wrong is left to the judgment of the individual. In the absence of a common standard of right and wrong, anything goes.

The Heart wants what the Heart wants

People reject a standard for truth because of their greater desire to do “that which seems right in their own eyes”. But what is right?

A recent Barna Research study, The End of Absolutes: America’s New Moral Code, found no agreement on the definition of morality today.

What is it based on? Where does it come from? How can someone know what to do when making moral decisions? According to a majority of American adults (57%), knowing what is right or wrong is a matter of personal experience. This view is much more prevalent among younger generations than among older adults. Three-quarters of Millennials (74%) agree strongly or somewhat with the statement, “Whatever is right for your life or works best for you is the only truth you can know,” compared to only 38 percent of Elders. And Millennials (31%) are three times more likely than Elders (10%) and twice as likely as Boomers (16%) and Gen-Xers (16%) to strongly agree with the statement.

People want “what they want” including freedom to choose what fits their preference and lifestyle, even if it means disobedience to God. [1]

The need to see spiritually

What then are we to do? It is critical that we as followers of Jesus Christ, develop an “eye” for what is truth versus what is error (1 John 4:1). We began this discussion in our series on spiritual discernment. However, during these end times, we must be even more intentional, vigil, and alert by honing our “spiritual sight”. (1 Pet. 1:13).

This 21^st century challenge is similar to what the Disciples and the early Church faced. They encountered a society that was “hostile” to the things of God and where men “leaned to their own understanding” (Prov. 3:5).

The Disciples had to develop a “new view” of the world. Jesus taught them that view in the Sermon on the Mount (Matthew 5-7). It was the “Kingdom view”. Believers would have to “see” things differently than the rest of the world. They would learn to develop their spiritual sight.

Through the leading of the Holy Spirit, the Disciples ultimately proclaimed the gospel of Jesus Christ. They participated in ushering in the Kingdom of God. We have that same opportunity today.

Time to Practice

I invite you to “a deeper perspective” of God’s Word by using your spiritual sight. Following are (3) scriptures to read and meditate on this week. Feel free to use different translations and paraphrases. Get your journal out as you read and invite the Holy Spirit to join you.

Jeremiah 5:21-29

Matthew 6:22-23

1 Corinthians 2:13-16

Answer these questions for each scripture you read:

How does this scripture relate to my personal walk with God?
How does it influence my view of 21^st century society?
What “new” insight did the Holy Spirit reveal to me in this scripture?

[1] Spiritual Discernment: Light for Darkened Eyes

Spiritual Maturity

In God We Trust: 2025

March 4, 2025 ITWMinistries Leave a comment

“Whenever I am afraid, I will trust in You.”

In God we trust. It’s printed on our coins, and we claim its truth as a nation. But the question we must ask ourselves is this. Do we REALLY trust in God? Let’s do a quick “fact check” by looking at two areas we face daily.

Concerned about financial security? We could direct our attention and efforts toward making sound business decisions which include debt reduction, savings, and sound business investments. We depend on personal discipline and outside counsel to help us make the best decisions for ourselves and our family.

Nervous about the state of our nation and the world? We might put our energy into supporting political parties and other platforms that support our views and belief systems. We place our trust in people and agendas that can move forward viewpoints we support.

Where have we put our trust in the areas noted above? Do we trust our personal knowledge, tangibles we can count, people we vote for, or do we trust God? In Psalm 56, King David shares his story to encourage us to look to a higher power, Eternal God, to help us realign our trust in 2025.

A Psalm of Trust

Psalm 56 is identified as a song for the distressed. David was in distress. Some would describe it as being “between a rock and a hard place.” Like David, we sometimes find ourselves wedged between many rocks and brutally hard places. Sometimes this happens because of others, like Saul, and other times it is the result of our own disobedience and waywardness. In those times of distress and fear, we are to call out like David: “In God, I have put my trust.” (Psalm 56:4)

The background for today’s Psalm can be found in 1 Samuel 21:8-15, where we are told of David’s escape to Gath, the stronghold of the Philistines, arch enemies of Israel. The Philistines were well acquainted with David who killed their champion, Goliath, when he was only a young shepherd boy (1 Samuel 17). Now because of King Saul’s jealousy, this young man runs for fear of his life to a place of even greater peril and sure death. He now stands captured by his worst enemy, the king of the Philistines.

Trust (batach) in Hebrew means “bold and confident”. The description means to literally “throw oneself down, extended on the ground, upon his face.” Can you imagine that picture? David, literally throwing himself on the mercy of God, fully confident and bold; defiantly proclaiming, “What can flesh do to me?” (Psalm 56:4) Did he recall the many times God intervened on his behalf as King Saul sought to capture and kill him? His eye was not on the source of his fear but on the Deliverer of his soul. David’s spirit was humbled, cast down in full confidence and trusting in Almighty God for his life—not the Philistine king.

Trust in 2025

Perhaps we were sincere when we first inscribed on our coins, “In God we trust”. However, our trust in “other things and people” has caused us to take our eye off God. Question, have they increased our trust?

As we face the many challenges of life that shake the foundation of our faith, we must:

- Put our trust in the One who can deliver us from all harm. (Psalm 46:1)
- Remember those times that God stepped in to deliver us and brought us to a point of safety. (Psalm 91:1,2)
- Exchange our fear for bold confidence in God. (Psalm 20:7)

What are the things that cause distress in our lives? Perhaps our stress is generated by things we have no control over; the state of the economy, unending political wrangling or social injustices that are currently in news headlines. Maybe it’s our health or the changing needs of our immediate family. Regardless of the “earthly” source of our fear, we can go to The “Eternal” Source, God. Now is the time to write upon our hearts the Psalmist’s words, “I have put my trust in God.”

A Prayer of Trust

God of creation and God of salvation, I put my trust in You. Though the earth may tremble, and the mountain be carried into the sea, I put my trust in You. Though life may be hard and the challenges daunting, I put my trust in You. I trust in You and You alone because You are MY GOD and MY FATHER. I am Your child. These things I ask in the powerful name of Jesus Christ.