Tag Archives: faithfulness

God’s Large Place

December 6, 2023 ITWMinistries Leave a comment

Good morning to you!

Have you ever awakened in the morning and instantly felt overwhelmed by the day? I mean, have you been totally immobilized so that you’re unable to get out of bed?

We can be sure that it is Satan’s effort to get us off God’s plan and purpose for our lives. Of course, our flesh also plays a part in this conspiracy. It is in the morning that the battle for our mind and our spirit begins.

This is the time to connect with the Holy Spirit and the truth found in God’s Word. This is the moment we can declare, “This is the day the Lord has made. We will rejoice and be glad in it.” (Psa. 118:24).

This is the day…

Each day begins with our perception of what lies ahead for us. Our calendar and day timer contains our commitments. Our mental and physical state impacts how we receive each new day. We are mentally challenged with fears, anxiety, depression, attention deficit, even our negative talk. We may physically “not feel good”. Seasonal ailments, chronic pain and disease make “jumping out of bed” a real chore. Getting up in the morning is a complex endeavor.

Read, “Monday Morning Cup” , with Lisa Boone-Reddick

But mornings are simply “a period of time which occurs between sunrise and noon”. The bigger issue is our ability to manage the stresses, complexities, and demands that arise during our days (and nights). The challenge is knowing how to successfully navigate the realities of living during these tumultuous and demanding times.

What would happen if we changed our perception of how we operate each day? How much better would our lives be if we acknowledged the real source of release and contentment? King David gives us the answer in Psalm 118.

The view from the other side

Psalm 118 is an excellent source of encouragement when we are perplexed with the struggles we face in our lives. King David probably penned this psalm after he had weathered the battles and challenges to gain full possession of the kingdom to which he had been anointed (1 Sam. 16:13).

In Psalm 118, David acknowledges the struggles but more importantly he witnesses to the presence and favor of God in the midst of those struggles. David begins and ends this psalm (vv. 1, 29) with praise and recognition of how Israel had made it through its most challenging days. David’s psalm was a call for all to remember God’s presence, God’s protection, and God’s provision. It was a time to give thanks for God’s goodness and His mercy.

Oh, give thanks unto the Lord,

for He is good, and

His mercy (lovingkindness) endures forever.

God granted David gracious favor in his distress. Matthew Henry describes this favor as “vouchsafe”.

God heard his prayer (v. 5): “He answered me with enlargements; he did more for me than I was able to ask; he enlarged my heart in prayer and yet gave more largely than I desired.” He answered me, and set me in a large place, where I had room to bestir myself, room to enjoy myself, and room to thrive; and the large place was the more comfortable because he was brought to it out of distress (Ps. 4:1). [1]

Getting to God’s large place

David’s view “from the other side” (of his rise to power) was the result of his personal relationship and experience with God. David remembered God’s faithfulness. He trusted God (vv. 8-9). This strengthened his belief that God would always be there (vv. 6-7; 17-18). David’s experience of God’s large place would prepare him for what lay ahead as he ruled the great nation of Israel.

We too can enter God’s large place through prayer and receiving His engrafted Word (James 1:21). We are invited to be intentional in recognizing and accepting God’s providence in our lives. Whether good or bad, morning or evening, God is always present to see us safely to the other side. God’s large place can be a place of victory, growth, and freedom. Let us declare, like David: Oh, give thanks unto the Lord, for He is good, and His mercy endures forever.

[1] Matthew Henry Commentary, Psalm 118.

Spiritual Maturity

Keep Hope Alive: True Hope

November 21, 2023 ITWMinistries Leave a comment

Hope and faith

In our first teaching on hope, we shared that hope is included as one of the three theological virtues mentioned in Paul’s letter to the church at Corinth. “And now abideth faith, hope, charity, these three.” (1 Cor. 13:13, KJV). Our faith becomes a key ingredient with hope and love to offer us peace, guidance, and unwavering hope. It provides us strength and solace in time of uncertainty. This is true not because we are “optimistic”, but we believe that God is truly in control regardless of the circumstances we face.

Paul admonished the young Christian converts of Thessalonica (as he does for us today) to arm themselves with these key virtues that will withstand dangers, toils, and strife they might face in this fallen world. Paul wanted to help believers look not only to their present situation but also to their secure future in eternity.

But let us who live in the light be clearheaded, protected by the armor of faith and love, and wearing as our helmet the confidence of our salvation. (1 Thess. 5:8, NLT)

The Apostle Peter shared this same message to God’s elect that had been scattered because of persecution. He encouraged them to persevere in a “lively hope” because of the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead. (1 Peter 1:3). He told them: “Gird up the loins of your mind and rest your hope fully upon the GRACE that is revealed at the revelation of Jesus Christ. (1 Pet. 1:13). That “revelation” came and still comes through the Holy Spirit.

Hope and the Holy Spirit

Now may the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace In believing (as you trust in Him) that you may abound (overflow) in hope by the power of the Holy Spirit. (Rom. 15:13)

This verse is a benedictory prayer. A benedictory prayer is a short blessing given at the conclusion of public worship. Paul begins by recognizing and acknowledging God as the true source of hope. He then adds that his readers will be filled with joy and peace. Joy relates to the delight of anticipation and seeing one’s hopes fulfilled. Peace results from the assurance that God will fulfill those hopes. As a result, believers overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit. The achievement of all God’s purposes for his children come from the power given by the Spirit of God.

The Holy Spirit instills hope in believers by:

1. Reassurance of God’s Love: The Holy Spirit pours God’s love into the hearts of believers, providing a steadfast foundation for hope. This love is unconditional and everlasting, providing security and assurance even in the face of trials and tribulations. (Rom. 5:5)

1. Guiding and Strengthening Faith: The Holy Spirit strengthens believers’ faith, enabling them to trust in God’s promises and plans. This faith is the source of hope, as it allows believers to anticipate God’s goodness and believe in the fulfillment of His promises. (Heb. 11:1)

1. Empowering for Perseverance: The Holy Spirit empowers believers with resilience and perseverance, enabling them to endure challenges and maintain hope amid difficulties. This empowerment allows believers to overcome obstacles and keep moving forward towards God’s purpose. (Gal.5:22-23)

1. Revealing God’s Plan: The Holy Spirit unveils God’s plan and purpose for believers’ lives, providing a clear direction and motivation for hope. This understanding of God’s plan instills hope for the future, as believers see how their present struggles fit into God’s overarching design. (Eph. 1:17-18)

1. Interceding in prayer: The Holy Spirit intercedes for believers in prayer, expressing their deepest yearnings and hopes to God. This intercession ensures that believers hopes are aligned with God’s will and that their prayers are heard and answered. (Rom. 8: 26-27).

The Holy Spirit serves as a beacon of hope, illuminating the path forward and guiding believers toward the fulfillment of God’s promises. Hope, anchored in the Holy Spirit’s presence, becomes a source of strength, resilience, and unwavering faith, enabling believers to navigate the challenges of life with confidence and anticipation of God’s goodness.

Real Hope

For hope to be real in our life, it is important that we are intentional in claiming that which Christ has obtained for us through His sacrificial death and powerful resurrection. We know that as believers in Christ we live continually in the presence of God who is the great I AM. It is God who provides us with what we need for the challenges we face (Isa. 43:2). Want to keep hope alive? Believe in God!

Spiritual Endurance

Keep Hope Alive: The Anatomy of Hope

November 7, 2023 ITWMinistries Leave a comment

The Anatomy of Hope

What does hope look like? What is its structure, composition, or framework? What is hope made of?

Hope is a combination of desire for something AND the expectation of receiving it. I’m not talking about “Christmas wishful thinking” but hope that encourages us to embrace the belief that better days are possible. Hope motivates us to preserve and continue moving forward.

We chose to create this series on hope because hope is what the world needs most right now. When we began the series in October, there was no war between Israel and Palestine. With regards to mass shootings in America, as of October 31, a total of 621 people have been killed and 2,126 other people have been injured in 520 shootings. Political divisiveness worsens polarizing communities, leaders, and even families. Can hope be kept alive?

What does hope look like?

Is it any wonder that the majority of U.S. adults agree the nations’ future looks bleak?

A majority of adults (62%) disagree with the statement, “our children are going to inherit a better world than we did,” and 63% disagree with the statement, “I feel our country is on the path to being stronger than ever.” More than 3/4 of adults (76%) said that the future of our nation is a significant source of stress in their lives, while 68% said this is the lowest point in our nation’s history that we can remember.

Two in three adults (66%) said the culture’s current political climate is a significant source of stress in their lives. Further, three in five adults quote (60%) said that the current social divisiveness in the nation causes them stress. Slightly more than three in five adults 62% reported that the racial climate in the US is a significant source of stress in their lives.[1]

Are these sources of stress going to go away? Absolutely not! And these stressors are larger than us and out of our control. In this environment, we are expected to manage the challenge of daily living and providing for our families–feeding, clothing, and housing. We search out ways to balance the stresses of life while maintaining healthy relationships, and personal “sanity”. There enters the need to cultivate our hope because when we cease to hope, we jeopardize our future.

Faith or hope?

How does our faith work with hope? Can both occupy the same space? In my reading, I came across a statement that helped me better understand the relationship between the two. “While faith is a function of the intellect, hope is an act of the will.” [2] In other words, what we know about God—His goodness, His greatness, and His promises—should cause us to confidently believe God. Hope moves us forward as we act on our faith in God (Heb. 11:1).

Hope allows us to look beyond what we can see.

Abraham, the Father of Nations, questioned when God would send him an heir, yet Abraham is known to “hope against hope” (Rom. 4:8). In other words, Abraham did not walk by sight but by faith in what God had promised him. His hope was built on the promises of God. Therefore, Abraham persevered.

The Apostle Paul’s faith in Christ (relational) and hope in Christ (motivational) kept him moving forward despite “beatings, in perils, in weariness, and in pain” (2 Cor. 11:23-27). Paul’s hope of glory moved Him through difficult times to eternity where he looked forward to the day when he would receive the crown of righteousness (2 Tim. 4:8). Therefore, Paul endured.

Hopelessness and true hope

True hope comes from the One who created hope: God. It comes by trusting God even when circumstances are difficult. I’ve heard many theologians and teachers disparage believers who struggle with hopelessness. While their intentions may be good, such belief discounts the fact that we are mere humans. We need hope, too. It’s important to remember that we are not perfect, simply saved. And that is more than enough.

Psalms captured this thought in several of its passages.

For He remembered that they were but flesh, A breath that passes away and does not come again. (Ps. 78:39, NKJV)

For He knows how weak we are; he remembers we are only dust. Our days on earth are like grass; like wildflowers, we bloom and die. The wind blows, and we are gone as though we had never been here. (Ps. 104:14-16, NLT)

Unless we acknowledge the frailty and fragility of our flesh, we may fail to understand the need for God’s power and presence in our lives. We must embrace our dependency on God which will solidify our hope. Can hope be kept alive? Absolutely!

Trust produces obedience, which produces hope, which results in joy and peace; and that is the power of the Holy Spirit (Rom. 15:13). When we walk by faith and trust in God, we can persevere and endure. We have hope.

[1] Stress in America 2022, American Psychological Association.

[2]Wikipedia, Hope

Spiritual Endurance

Keep Hope Alive: An Introduction

October 24, 2023 ITWMinistries Leave a comment

There is always hope for a better future.

Keep hope alive! This phrase is most famously associated with Rev. Jesse Jackson, who used it repeatedly in his speeches and sermons during the Civil Rights Movement.

However, the phrase is much older. It has been traced back to at least the 16th century when it was used in religious and philosophical writings. For example, William Tyndale[1] used the phrase in his book, “The Pilgrimage of Grace”, where he encouraged his readers not to be overcome by despair.

Over the years, this phrase has been used by activists, artists, athletes, and everyday people to express their belief in the power of hope to overcome adversity. Today “keep hope alive” is still widely used. It is a reminder that even when things are tough, there is always hope for a better future.

Do we need to keep hope alive in the 21^st century? Absolutely! With the ever-present vulnerability we share as humans in a chaotic world, our lives are forever saturated in the possibility of catastrophe.[2] Therefore we need hope. Welcome to our series, “Keep hope alive!”

Hope by any other name

Hope is defined as an optimistic state of mind that is based on an expectation of positive outcomes. Its synonyms include optimism and anticipation. The opposite of hope includes hopelessness and despair.

Hope is included as one of the three theological virtues mentioned in Paul’s letter to the church at Corinth. “And now abideth faith, hope, charity, these three.” (1 Cor. 13:13, KJV). To the church at Thessalonica, Paul acknowledges the saints for “their work of faith and labor of love and steadfastness of hope in our Lord Jesus Christ.” (1Thess. 1:3, RSV).

When we use the word hope in casual conversation, we often do so in a doubtful manner. However biblical hope is never “doubt-filled”. It is built upon a confident expectation of a future fulfillment based on God’s Word and God’s promises.

Threats to our hope.

As I watched the news this weekend, I was reminded of the challenges we face living in these perilous and tumultuous times. Wars in Ukraine and Israel. Gridlock in Congress. Violence and evil perpetrated upon our communities. Immorality and filthiness normalized. What producers thought would be “interesting and important”, only increased my anxiety and threatened my hope.

The writer of Hebrews, however, reminded me that as believers we have a “sure hope” in God through Jesus Christ. We have hope as “an anchor for our souls, both sure and steadfast.” (Heb. 6:19).

Hope as an anchor of the soul.

Hope will sustain us during difficult times. The writer of Hebrews depicted hope as an anchor. It was a familiar object that would illustrate God’s strong attachment to us. This anchor was “sure and steadfast”.

Sure is interpreted to mean “something that can be relied upon”. Steadfast continues this thought of God’s hope. It adds the descriptors of “trustworthy, firm and secure”. The anchor represents the Object of our faith who is Jesus Christ. Jesus has secured our position for eternity—past, present, and future.

Hope in God continues to be the message that will sustain us today in these troubling times. Our hope is based on the immutability of His word (Heb. 6:17-18), the certainty of His promise (Rom. 4:16) and the assurance of His presence (Rom. 15:13). It is this hope that gives us confidence and the ability to persevere. It is our hope in God that will “keep hope alive.”

[1] (1994-1536) Leading figure in the Protestant Reformation and translator of the Bible into English.

[2] Hope: Why it matters, Harvard Health Publishing, Harvard Medical School, July 16, 2021

Spiritual Discipline

Return to Faithfulness

September 19, 2023 ITWMinistries Leave a comment

The basics of backsliding.

As a child, I remember our worship services especially the ones with sermons that warned our congregation of the dangers of “backsliding”. After the minister’s fiery discourse, a few members would approach the “welcoming” altar, many times weeping and repentant.

The word backslide, in a Christian context, implies movement away from Christ rather than toward Him. A backslider is someone who is going the wrong way, spiritually. He is regressing rather than progressing. The backslider had at one time demonstrated a commitment to Christ or maintained a certain standard of behavior, but he has since reverted to old ways. Backsliding in Hebrew mean “turning away, turning back, or apostasy”. It infers “defection”—turning away for the wisdom of God (Prov. 1:32) and away from Jehovah—the Covenant Keeping God (Jer. 3:6, 8, 11, 12).

Return to the wisdom of God.

We don’t hear much about backsliding these days. Perhaps our focus has shifted to the “lost” versus those who “appear to be” in the ark of safety. But backsliders are as important to God as the unsaved in that backsliding is an indication of the lack of one’s faithfulness to Him. Faithfulness to God was an important part of the prophets’ proclamations and is central in appreciating Hosea 11.

The Old Testament prophet’s function was to not only herald the warnings of God but to also remind God’s people, Israel, to remain faithful to Him. Through the prophets, God announced His intentions to enforce the covenant which was always in accordance with categories of blessings and curses already contained in the Law. Even today, we need to take heed to the prophetic Word of God. We must remain faithful to Him and if we have “backslidden”, repent, and return to faithfully follow God.

A Prophet’s view of backsliding

In Hosea 11, God speaks to the prophet as one would speak to a close friend and confidant. God shares with Hosea His history of unbridled favor and goodness to Israel. The opening verses (vv. 1-3) read like a doting parent, who has poured all their affection and attention upon their child only to receive, in return, opposition and defiance. God’s “gentle cords and bands of love” (v. 3) only resulted in Israel’s ingratitude and unfaithfulness.

For Israel’s immorality and worship of idols, God’s punishment of Israel would be swift and severe. Israel’s unfaithfulness would earn God’s judgment and doom. God’s compassion toward Israel would be the only reason God’s mercy and grace would be extended (Hosea 12:6). It would, however, call for their faithfulness to God.

Why do we backslide?

God attributes Israel’s behavior to its “bentness to backsliding.” This “bentness” is like Paul’s description of “the flesh”—that unredeemed part of man that still exists within believers (Rom. 7: 17-19). Israel was deaf and disobedient to God’s voice, spoken by Moses and His other prophets. They rebelled and became more resolute in their disobedience; adding to Israel’s injurious behavior, was their failure to exalt God (Hos. 11:7).

The positive ending to what began as a tragic narrative is that despite Israel’s faithlessness, God was faithful. God honored His covenant and extended mercy to Israel with the promise to ultimately restore His covenant people to Himself (vv. 10-11).

Are we guilty of 21st century backsliding?

How similar is Israel’s behavior to that which we find in our nation, in our homes, and in our individual faith walk. That same “bentness to sin” that tempted Israel still tempts us today to unfaithful behavior. Though delivered from the bondage of sin, we may find ourselves still pursuing those things that feed our fleshly desires and wants (1 John 2:15-17). Backsliding may manifest itself in several ways, e.g., dropping out of church, losing fervor for the Lord, walking away from a ministry or a family, or falling back into old habits.

It is a great encouragement to our hope in God’s mercies to remember that “God is God”, and not man. He is the Holy One. He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and receives us even when we are guilty of backsliding. God is faithful to His covenant people. Even in our faithlessness, God remains faithful to us (2 Tim. 2:13).

Spiritual Discipline

Return to Our First Love

September 12, 2023 ITWMinistries Leave a comment

Do you remember?

Who can forget their first love? The excitement we felt when that special person entered the room. The anticipation of seeing them and the connection that was made as eyes met. The experience of first love, with all its innocence and purity, was never to be repeated—for that is the way of “first things”.

Remember the first time you professed your love for Jesus Christ? With that experience came the same excitement and anticipation as our first earthly love. Unlike most first things that eventually lose their luster, it is important for us to make every effort to nurture and cultivate our personal relationship with our First Love, Jesus Christ.

How’s love today?

Are we feeling distant and estranged from God? Do our prayers appear routine and repetitive? Is our praise predictable and puny? If we answered yes to any of these questions, then it’s time for us to examine ourselves (2 Cor. 13:5) and see what is hindering our personal relationship with the Lord. God never changes (Malachi 3:6) nor has God moved. Maybe it’s time to return to our first love for Jesus.

The church at Ephesus had persevered and endured hardship for the Lord. This was a critical part of the early church’s responsibility to insure a clear and true presentation of the gospel (Eph. 4:1-2). In general, this church had continued in its faithful service to God for more than 40 years. While all these “efforts” were important in the development of the early church (as it is now), there was something noticeably absent. They had left their first love for Jesus.

Time to return.

Jesus lays a charge of carelessness in Ephesus’ relationship with Him in Revelations 2:4: ” Nevertheless I have this against you, that you have left your first love.”

In the literal translation of today’s text, the order of the words in Greek emphatically denote the strong rebuke directed to the church. “Your first love you have left!” This second-generation of believers, had retained purity of doctrine but were lacking in deep devotion to Christ.

As believers, we must ask ourselves if we too are careless in cultivating our relationship with the Lord. Remember the first time we professed our love for Jesus Christ? With that experience came excitement and anticipation. Are we now guilty of taking our eyes off the Lord? Are we more concerned with our personal agendas than practicing the presence of the Holy Spirit? Have we left our first love?

And what can we say about the Church, Christ’s bride (Rev. 19:7-9)? The Church needs to heed the same warning given to the Ephesians. Orthodoxy and service is not enough. Christ wants hearts as well as our hands and heads (Matt. 22:37).

How can I return?

Last week, we agreed that repentance is the starting point to return to God. Once this has taken place, we might consider the following strategies to return to His side (1 John 1:3).

Recommit ourselves to Him. Do you not know that to whom you present yourselves slaves to obey, you are that one’s slaves whom you obey, whether of sin leading to death, or of obedience leading to righteousness? (Rom. 6:16) Recommitment involves renewing your loyalty to Christ and His lordship over your life. This includes directing your time, talents, and treasures to the service of the Lord. We are so grateful that there is nothing that can ever separate us from God’s love (Rom. 8:39).

Renew our love for Him. I will love You, O LORD, my strength (Ps. 18:1). Tell the Lord how much you love Him. Although He is all-knowing, He still wants to hear us tell Him how much we adore Him. We must let Him know that we desire Him with all our heart and soul (Ps. 42:1-2). Let us show our love for Him through our praise and worship. We are never closer to Him than when we “love on Him” (Ps. 22:3).

Reprioritize our life around Him. Christ set the standard for priority when He said, “Seek ye first the kingdom of God and His righteousness” (Matt. 6: 33). However, to make God the center of our life is counterculture. When we place Christ first in our life, we are assured that we have chosen the “Good Part” (Luke 10:42).

It’s time to return to our first love! He is waiting for us (Isa. 30:15, 18).

Victorious Living

In Search of Peace: Whose peace do we want?

August 16, 2023 ITWMinistries Leave a comment

In Search of peace.

As we learned last week, peace can be defined in many ways. From a world perspective, peace is a stress-free state where there is perfect harmony and freedom. However, peace from a biblical perspective provides us with more precise descriptions on which to focus our attention.

Both the Old and New Testaments use the root word, salom or shalom to capture the meaning of peace as “completeness, contentment, rest, and harmony”.

Peace by any definition can be very elusive and subject to change because of external influences. That’s why we need to be clear as to what we’re looking for and where we think we may find it.

Loss of our Peace.

At one time man experienced “perfect peace”. That peace was found in the Garden of Eden by Adam and Eve. There was completeness, contentment, rest, and harmony. On Maslow’s Hierarchy they were “at the top” of the pyramid. Their peace, however, ended with the entrance of sin.

In the beginning, all creation was in a state of shalom, and this is the environment that Adam and Eve entered into. This Shalom was a perfect peace, where the infinite Creator of all things was in complete communion with his created beings Adam and Eve. Yet sin destroyed that shalom and cast the world into a place of brokenness. The fallen world we live in, with its violence, heartache, pain, and death are very visible results of the Shalom that was lost so very long ago.[1]

As we view the challenges of living in the 21^st century with its social challenges, spiritual deficits, and moral vice, we might ask if peace can become a reality in our lifetime. Peace can be achieved but it must begin with an understanding of the true source of peace.

Man-made peace.

There are two types of peace we can experience. The first is man-made peace which is based on the creation of external systems to ensure safety and security. It also includes safeguards to support peaceful interactions between individuals, groups, and communities (relationships). On a large scale we see governments (local, state, or national) serving in these roles. Our best efforts in fabricating peace will only leave us in disappointment and despair because our skewed understanding of peace is dependent upon things outside our control![2]

God-given peace.

The other option we have is God-given peace. The pursuit of God-given peace begins with being spiritually reconciled to God (Rom. 5:10). Because of our sin nature, our relationship is estranged. The way back to God is only possible through acceptance of Jesus Christ, who paid the price for our sin (Rom. 5:8-9). Once reconciled to God, we are no longer in enmity with each other. We have peace with God.

Once we have peace with God, we become heirs of salvation and part of God’s Kingdom (Rom. 8:17). As children of God, we receive the Holy Spirit who dwells within us to comfort and strengthen us during difficult times. The Holy Spirit brings peace by reminding us of the faithfulness of God. The Spirit speaks to the promises and blessings that are ours because of our righteous standing made possible through Jesus Christ (Eph. 1:3-14; 2 Peter 1:3-4). We have the peace of God.

As we daily walk in newness of life with the Holy Spirit as our guide, we begin to act like Jesus. We are told to be conformed to the image of Christ who provides us with the model of how we act and react while living in this fallen world. We have escaped the corruption that is in the world through our knowledge of God—His power, His purpose, and His presence. This provides us with great confidence even when pressed on every side (2 Cor. 4:8-9). We have peace from God.

True Peace

Jesus promised to give His Disciples peace. Jesus’ peace quiets the inner turmoil that comes with danger.

Peace I leave with you; My peace I give to you: I do not give to you as the world gives. Don’t let your heart be troubled, or fearful.” (John 14:27, CSB)

The Apostle Paul reminds us in his letter to the Philippians that God’s peace is true peace.

Don’t worry about anything; instead, pray about everything; tell God your needs, and don’t forget to thank him for his answers. If you do this, you will experience God’s peace, which is far more wonderful than the human mind can understand. His peace will keep your thoughts and your hearts quiet and at rest as you trust in Christ Jesus. (Phil. 4:6-7, Living Bible)

Whose peace do we desire? True peace can only be found in God through Jesus Christ. God’s peace is underwritten by His unchanging promises and experienced through the presence of the Holy Spirit living within us. God’s peace meets the perfect biblical standards. It is complete, leading to contentment, giving us rest (from worry), and creating harmony in our relationships.

[1] Jason Soroski, “What does shalom mean and why is it important?”, Crosswalk.com.

[2] Samuel Stephens, “The Pursuit of Peace”, Association of Certified Biblical Counselors.

Spiritual Maturity

Clarion Word Classics: What if Jesus Really Meant what He Said?

July 25, 2023 ITWMinistries Leave a comment

Expand our spiritual thought

Earlier this year, WordBytes launched a new learning format entitled The Clarion Word Classics. The word “clarion” comes from the Latin word claru or ‘clear’. Used as an adjective, it means ‘loud and clear’.

Our intent with this quarterly series is to make “loud and clear” what is ours in Christ (Rom. 8:17) and the relevancy of our faith for this present generation (Matt. 24:34).

New thought

With The Clarion Word Classics we will share faith writings from key theologians who will strengthen and enrich our spiritual lives and faith walk. Some from sage theologians and writers and also introduce contemporary writers who express spiritual answers to the challenges of 21^st century living.

To kickoff this Clarion Word Classics (CWC), we introduce the book Red Letter Revolution: What if Jesus Really Meant What He Said? Listed among the most popular devotional books, we thought this may be of interest to our curious readers. Shane Claiborn and Tony Campolo , offer interesting perspectives on how to make our faith real in a world with no absolutes and growing disbelief in God and Jesus.

Let the Holy Spirit guide you

In the Word Ministries provides CWC in our effort to “inspire authentic communities of faith, fellowship, and learning.” It is in that spirit that we share this book. This is not an endorsement or agreement with the views shared. Here is an excerpt from and about Red Letter Revolution.

Victorious Living

On the Road to God’s New Thing

May 23, 2023 ITWMinistries Leave a comment

A road by any other name

A road is literally defined as a wide way leading from one place to another. We often think of roads as access to new opportunities of commerce or development, such as the road to success.

A road can also describe a series of events or a course of action that will lead to a particular outcome. In the book, The Road Less Traveled, M. Scott Peck uses “road” figuratively to describe the sometimes hard and often painful process of change. Peck uses the “road less traveled” as a illustration of the journey this requires.

Jeremiah’s road

In Jeremiah 31, the prophet speaks to the people of God in Babylon to prepare them for a “road”—both literally and figuratively—that would return them to their own land after their 70-year exile.

Jeremiah’s message is clear. They are not to be afraid or lose heart. They are to be focused with a firm resolution to rebuild the nation of Israel.

In Jeremiah 31:22, Israel is called to refrain from falling back into their old rebellious habits as God creates “a new road” to their salvation—a “new thing” that had never been done before (or since).

How long wilt thou go about, O thou backsliding daughter? for the LORD hath created a new thing in the earth, A woman shall compass a man.

Failure on the road

Israel is warned against potential backsliding which is interpreted as “faithless”. In the past both Israel and Judah had consistently failed to “holdfast” to God and depend solely on Him for their every need. (Job 27:6) The results was always disastrous as proven by the conquest of both nations.

Where are we placing our faith? Is it in people—elected officials, family members, or friends? Are we dependent on things—bank accounts, social status, or professional affiliations? Do we believe only in ourselves—our intellect, looks, or personality? When Jesus returns, will He find us faithfully following Him on the new road? (Luke 18:8)

With God on the road to new things

Israel is encouraged to trust God, Who would create a “new thing”—interpreted as strange and surprising—in the earth. God would create a woman who would “compass” or protect man.

Many interpreters understand this “new thing” to be the incarnation of Jesus Christ. A woman, the Virgin Mary, enclosed in her womb the Might One. This was to be their incentive.

They would know that with their return from exile came the promise of not only their physical restoration but also the spiritual blessing of the Mighty God (Is. 9:6). God would not cast off His people but bless them. This was to be their assurance.

What is the road for us today?

How do we to live in the knowledge of this “new thing”? Knowing the blessings of being in Christ (Ep. 1:3-14).

• We live attentively in God’s presence. God is creating new opportunities for us. However, we must listen for His voice and watch where He is working. (2 Chronicles 16:9)

• We live expectantly in God’s provision. God has provided all that we need to live godly lives and to accomplish His purpose in our lives. (2 Pet. 1:3-8)

• We live faithfully in God’s purpose. As the elect of God we live by faith. We do not backslide or “draw back unto perdition” but trust that He who began this “good work in us” is able to complete it. (Phil. 1:6)

Our journey to understanding “new things” has hopefully provided incentive and inspiration to walk in the divine purpose God has created for our lives. When we as believers trust God and understand God’s reason for “new things”, we can move forward joyfully in faith and confidence.

Spiritual Maturity

Throwback Wednesday: Six Months to Live

May 2, 2023 ITWMinistries Leave a comment

Where has the time gone?

It’s May, 2023. In a few weeks, we will enter midyear. And my question is this. What have you done with the time gifted to you? Did you squander it?

Have you rushed to do the routine rather than enjoying the uniqueness of each day. The rich fool spent his time in the routine of planting, not knowing that his soul would be required of him, sooner than later. (Luke 12:13-21)

Have you spent your time pondering over past hurts and offenses? There is little to be gained in such activities and definitely nothing that can be useful in accomplishing God’s purpose for our lives. The brother of the prodigal son was offended and jealous of the attention his brother received. He chose to “cling” to his anger. He was offended and “would not come in.” (Luke 16:25-32)

If given the prognosis that you had six months to live, how would you spend your time? This is the topic for discussion in this Throwback Wednesday.

Six months to live?

What would you do if after your annual physical exam, the doctor shared the sobering fact that you have six months to live? This is not a scenario I would wish on anyone. However, in reality, we don’t know how much time we have left in our frail and finite lives (Ps. 90:10-12). It really could be six months, six days, or six years. So what’s my point?

We have passed the midpoint of 2021. Taken in a larger context, we have moved passed the events of 2020, with its losses and human volatility. BUT GOD has brought us safely to this point in time (Prov. 18:10). And what will we do with the time that remains? What will we do with our next six months? Will we live our life as if there is no tomorrow? Or will we live each day with gratitude and intentionality?

Living with gratitude and intentionality

Gratitude is an emotion expressing appreciation and thankfulness for what one has. Regrettably, we often miss the mark in articulating gratitude. In the busyness of living, we take for granted those things God provides through His grace.

Intentionality is the fact of being deliberate or purposeful. Living with intention means that we consciously direct our thoughts, beliefs, and actions toward some object or situation. For believers, this object is Jesus and the Kingdom of God.

A second invitation to abundant living

Both gratitude and intentionality are key in moving us closer to the abundant life God has designed for each of our lives (Ep. 2:10; John 10:10).

As we examine our lives (with six months to live), it might be helpful to revisit the blessings God has for us when we practice gratitude and intentional living.

Abundant Living is a great reminder of God’s possibilities for the time He is giving us. What will we do with our next six months?