Tag Archives: Knowing God

Hope that Won’t Disappoint

May 5, 2026 ITWMinistries Leave a comment

What we’ve learned about hope.

The believer’s audacity for hope is made possible by knowledge of God (Psalm 16:11), by continuous abiding in Christ (John 15:5) and the filling of the Holy Spirit (Galatians 5:22-23).

Our audacity or boldness is built on a sure foundation based on the fidelity and faithfulness of God. It is established on the immutability of His word (Hebrews 6:17-18), the certainty of His promise (Romans 4:16) and the assurance of His presence (Romans 15:13). This is what gives us the ability to persevere.

This boldness leads us to our faith response to the challenges and trials of 21^st century living. Our faith becomes a key ingredient with hope to offer us peace, guidance, and unwavering hope. It provides us with 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.

Together, our audacity and faith results in our recognition and acknowledgement that God and God alone is the true source of our hope (Psalm 62:5-12). A true hope that never disappoints.

Hope and the Holy Spirit

The Holy Spirit serves as a beacon of hope, illuminating the path forward and guiding believers toward the fulfillment of God’s promises. The Holy Spirit instills hope in believers by:

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. (Romans 5
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. (Hebrews . 11:1)
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. (Galatians 5:22-23)
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. (Ephesians 1:17-18)
Interceding in prayer: The Holy Spirit intercedes for believers in prayer, expressing their deepest yearnings and hopes to God. This intercession ensures that believer’s hopes are aligned with God’s will and that their prayers are heard and answered. (Romans 8: 26-27).

The Holy Spirit becomes a source of strength and resilience, enabling believers to navigate the challenges of life with confidence and anticipation of God’s goodness.

Hope that won’t disappoint.

For hope that is real in our life, it is important that we intentionally claim that which Christ has obtained for us through His sacrificial death and powerful resurrection. Through Jesus’ sacrificial gift of life, we have a hope that “does not” and “will not” disappoint.

Therefore, having been justified by faith we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom also we have access by faith into this grace in which we stand, and rejoice in hope of the glory of God. And not only that, but we also glory in tribulations, knowing that tribulation produces perseverance; and perseverance, character; and character, hope. Now hope does not disappoint, because the love of God has been poured out in our hearts by the Holy Spirit who was given to us. (Romans 5:1-5)

Bottomline, God’s hope won’t disappoint. His hope is the only guarantee of security and assurance even in the face of trials and tribulations. HE IS the steadfast foundation for hope. (Hebrew 6:17-19)

For hope that won’t disappoint, hold fast to “the God of hope [who will] fill you with all joy and peace in believing [through the experience of your faith] that by the power of the Holy Spirit you will abound in hope and overflow with confidence in His promises.” (Romans 15:13, Amplified)

Our Faith Walk

Hope: Our 21st Century Faith Response

April 28, 2026 ITWMinistries Leave a comment

How do we describe hope?

What metaphors do we use to express hope? How do we encourage others to believe “there’s a path to good” even in bad times? Here are a few we might have used.

“There’s light at the end of the tunnel.”
“Every cloud has a silver lining.”
“The sun is peeking through the clouds.”
“Hope is an eternal flame.”

But let’s be honest, when we’re at the “end of our rope” and the “bottom of our world has fallen out”, metaphors about hope will not help us. We are looking for something that will ease our troubled souls right now!

Who needs hope?

According to the American Psychological Association [1], we all need hope.

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.

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 also 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”. We need to cultivate our hope because when we cease to hope, we jeopardize our future.

The worldview of hope

Hope has ALWAYS been something we humans have needed whether in ancient times or modern days. Man’s ability to survive and thrive has been dependent on hope. The challenge, however, continues to be our ability to identify the BEST SOURCE of HOPE.

Hope, from the world’s view, comes from a variety of sources that, when combined and strengthened, provide a foundation for optimism, resilience, and the pursuit of a meaningful and fulfilling life. These include the following which we most commonly use.

Relationships and connections: human connections and strong relationships provide a sense of belonging, support, and love, fostering hope and resilience in the face of adversity.

Personal strengths and abilities: recognizing and utilizing one’s strengths and abilities instills confidence and a sense of empowerment, nurturing hope for achieving goals and overcoming challenges.

Meaning and purpose: finding meaning and purpose in life, whether personal interest, family, community, or spiritual beliefs, provides a sense of direction and motivation, fueling hope for our fulfillment and meaningful existence.

Spiritual beliefs and faith: for many, spiritual beliefs and faith in a higher power offer a sense of peace, guidance, and unwavering hope, providing strength and solace in time of uncertainty.

We do these things to cope and to relieve the uncertainty we face daily. Like the television therapist, Dr. Phil, might ask, “how’s that working for you?” Consider adding to this list: The God of Hope.

The God of Hope

We often become discouraged when the things we do in our human strength fail to improve our situation. We are stressed because when we look around there is “no light at the end of the tunnel” nor is the “sun peeking through the clouds.”

The reality we must come to grips with is that we live in a fallen world, where sin will continue to manifest itself in the brokenness and pain we see today. Injustice, wars, corruption, and much more. BUT THERE IS HOPE.

Our hope is built on the faithfulness and dependability of God. We must rely on the “fidelity” of God. God is reliable, dependable, and faithful. God is true, truthful, and trustworthy. His Word and His promises provide the “blessed assurance” we need to not only survive but also thrive in this world. He is our sufficiency (2 Corinthians 3:5).

What is our faith response to the challenges of 21^st century living? We must recognize and acknowledge that God alone is the true source of our hope (Psalms 62:5-12).

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

Our Faith Walk

The Audacity of Hope, Part 2

April 21, 2026 ITWMinistries Leave a comment

Why do we need hope?

From the tenuous bonds that connect us with one another, to the ever-present vulnerability we share as humans in a chaotic world, our lives are forever saturated in the possibility of catastrophe. Bad things— often tragic things like accidents, illness, and untimely death—happen to people every single day. We know this, yet we are tasked with finding ways of moving forward in a world where nothing is guaranteed.[1]

How then do we move forward? We look for hope—the expectation that things will get better. Hope is important because it helps us to cope with stress and anxiety, manage adversity, and improve our well-being and happiness. Hope is not always easy to find, but it is always worth seeking. It is the light that guides us through the darkness, and it gives us the strength to keep going even when things are tough.

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 Corinthians 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.” (1Thessalonica 1:3).

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.

We can only hope!

Hope is both a feeling and a motivation. A powerful force for good in our lives. It can help us cope with difficult times and to persevere in the face of challenges. It has been described as a shield, a path, and a powerful protector. This is especially true when we face life-threatening illnesses or insurmountable challenges in our lives.

Hope is a complex emotion that is critical for the times in which we find ourselves. As we embrace the belief that better days are possible, we are motivated to continue moving forward. It is exactly what is needed to persevere during these difficult times. With hope, we can find ways to oppose the dread of life’s dangers. Hope is critical to our future, both individually and collectively, as a society. Therein lies the reason we must continue to hope.

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 (Hebrews 6:17-18), the certainty of His promise (Romans 4:16) and the assurance of His presence (Romans 15:13).

It is this hope that gives us confidence and the ability to persevere. Our audacity of hope is built on a sure foundation based on the fidelity and faithfulness of God.

Next week, we will explore hope as our faith response to the challenges of 21^st century living.

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

Our Faith Walk

The Audacity of Hope, Part 1

April 14, 2026 ITWMinistries Leave a comment

Why hope?

President Barack Obama authored a book in 2006 entitled, The Audacity of Hope. In the prologue, he shares his personal view of what the audacity of hope looks like.

The audacity of hope. That is the best of the American spirit. I thought it was having the audacity to believe despite all the evidence to the contrary that we could restore our sense of community to a nation in conflict.

Audacity is defined as the willingness to take bold risks, often characterized by confident, daring, or insolent behavior. It can mean courageous bravery or more commonly, disrespectful impudence.

To exhibit optimism amid wars and global conflicts, may be viewed as flip. Trusting God and living by faith when costs are escalating and wages are shrinking, might be seen as daring. However, that is where the audacity of hope comes in.

As believers, our hope is anchored in the Word of God and His promises (Hebrew 6:19). During these uncertain times, we can “audaciously” demonstrate our confidence in the God of hope. We have the assurance of hope.

The Assurance of Hope

The assurance of hope is based on our relationship with the Lord. In Romans 15:13, God is described as the “God of hope”.

May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing,

so that by the power of the Holy Spirit you may abound in hope.

In the beginning of the verse, joy and peace are linked together. Joy is not a fleeting happiness derived from favorable circumstances. Rather, joy is the gladness of heart.

Peace is not the absence of conflict, but it denotes being in “right relationship” with God. This includes access by faith into the grace, in which we stand, and rejoice in hope of the glory of God. (Romans 5:1-2)

To abound in hope is the result of our relationship with the Holy Spirit. It is the power of the Holy Spirit that empowers us to do things that can only be accomplished supernaturally (Philippians 4:13). Through these 21^st century challenges, we can spiritually mature from our experiences, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope. And hope will not make us ashamed. (Romans 5: 3-5)

The Protection of Hope

We need the assurance of hope to hold back the troubles of the world and Satan’s attempts to frustrate us. The intent of both is to cause us to “give up.” John Elderedge in his book, Resilient, describes this state of mind as “Desolation.”

I suffered a couple of devastating emotional blows in the summer of 2021. There were things I felt God had promised me that, in heartbreaking ways, did not come through. I felt so betrayed and abandoned. But then, in my vulnerable state, something came over me—a dark cloud, a sort of suffocating fog that urged me to give up my life with God. The symptoms included a sort of dullness of heart, a poverty of spirit, and a bareness of soul. Disappointment, so understandable, collapsed into disillusionment.

Neither hope nor joy comes easily. Hopelessness infects our faith. We must find the supernatural graces to guard our hearts against both Desolation, and the riptides that pull us away from God.

Giving up will result in missed blessings. This includes failure to accomplish the purpose God has designed for us (Ephesians 2:10). Worst case, it may cause us to walk away from our relationship with God and His protection. When that happens, Satan has won, offering no replacement except more disappointment and heart break.

The audacity of hope is possible by:

Knowing God (Psalm 16:11)
Abiding in Christ (John15:5)
Filling by the Holy Spirit (Galatians 5:22-23)

Next week, we’ll continue to discuss the audacity of hope, especially during these chaotic times.

Eastertide

The Foolish Message of the Cross

March 31, 2026 ITWMinistries Leave a comment

Am I foolish?

Have you ever been accused of being foolish? I remember as a child when I would do something that rejected what I knew was the right action, my mother would ask me, “why would you be so foolish?” It was my mother’s responsibility to correct and redirect me, especially if my choices were leading me in the wrong direction. That was the Apostle Paul’s intent when he pinned 1 Corinthians 1:18.

For the message of the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God.

My paraphrase is this:

Unbelievers think that the belief that Jesus Christ died and rose again is stupid and irrational. But to us, who are believers and followers of Christ, it shows the awesome power of God.

The definition of foolish is to lack good sense or judgment. It is something that is unwise. As we approach this Easter season, my question is this.: Is the message of the Cross foolishness?

What is the Message of the Cross?

As we read our bibles, it’s important to know that in most contexts, the “message of the Cross” is the same as “the gospel”. Here is a helpful description of the gospel message.

We believe Christ has paid the price and penalty for our sins. Jesus was crucified, dead and buried. He rose from the grave victorious over sin and death. Jesus the Christ is now ascended to heaven and sits exalted at the right hand of God the Father. We too have been raised with Him and will spend eternity with Him.

Do we really understand what the gospel message means? If we relate to it only on Easter/Resurrection Sunday, we are missing “the power” of the Cross. It is more than a story about a piece of wood on which Christ was crucified. It is the power to save (Romans 1:16). In addition, it represents the power behind the Cross, God Himself.

Why is the the gospel message seen as foolishness?

The Apostle Paul’s letter to the church at Corinth responds to several doctrinal questions about their new faith. In 1 Corinthians 1:18-2:5, he takes time to address what the Cross (the gospel message) means.

Christ’s resurrection is the demonstration of God’s power and wisdom. This power is revealed in His victory over both sin and death. His wisdom is seen in His eternal plan of redemption for lost man.

Who considers the message of the Cross as foolishness in the 21^st century? Those “who are perishing”. These individuals seek pleasure in the things of this world versus the things of God.

The message of the world

The current worldview is grounded in the message of self: self-indulgence and self-gratification. Media and marketing entice them to satisfy (versus abstain from) their fleshly lusts (1 John 2:16,17). These individuals are unwilling to give up lifestyles and habits that conflict with living a Christ-centered life.

At the heart of this disbelief is Satan. He blinds people from seeing the glorious blessings and promises available to them through the Cross (2 Corinthians 4:3,4). Furthermore, without the presence of the Holy Spirit, unbelievers are unable to understand the truth revealed in the message (1 Corinthians 2:14-16).

Without Jesus, unbelievers remain in their sin and spiritual blindness. However, their disbelief does not nullify the reality and the truth of the Cross (The Gospel). The message of the Cross silences Satan.

The believer’s view of the message

Belief in the message begins at the Cross (Ephesians 1:11-13). We are those “who are being saved”. The verb “saved” is in the present passive tense, which means this.

“Present” means that the work of salvation is continuous. We were initially saved when we first accepted Jesus as our Savior. We are now being saved as we daily walk in submission to the Holy Spirit. This enables us to resist sin’s presence as we live in our fleshly bodies. As we do this, we become conformed to the image of Christ (Romans 8:29). We will celebrate our glorified salvation when we transition to heaven.

“Passive” means that we are recipients (versus participants) of the work of salvation. This “heavy lifting” is accomplished only by the Triune God—God the Father, Jesus Christ the Son, and the Holy Spirit. “To us who are being saved it (the Cross-the message of the Cross-the Gospel) is the power of God to them that believe.”

When we accept Jesus as our Lord and Savior, we become new creatures (2 Corinthians 5:17). Our focus shifts from what we want, to what God wants (1 Peter 4:1,2). We live “in the presence of, under the authority of, and to the honor and glory of God.”

Moving forward

It is the gospel message, the message of the Cross, that gives us both confidence and boldness, to operate in this fallen world. When we are challenged for our beliefs, we know who we are and whose we are (Romans 8:16-17). “We are a chosen people. We are royal priests, a holy nation, God’s very own possession. As a result, we can show others the goodness of God, for he called us out of the darkness into his wonderful light.” (1 Peter 2:9, NLT).

Whenever I read 1 Corinthians 1:18, my mind returns to my mother’s chastisement and her intent to guide me in the “right direction”. It reminds me that I must continuously remember my identity in the message of the Cross (Romans 10:9-11).

Though opposed by the current worldview, I will choose to follow Jesus Christ. I am ready to share the reason for my hope (1 Peter 3:15). I will witness to the power and reality of the message of the Cross. Christ crucified, died, but now alive and ascended in victory. That’s not foolishness. It’s a fact.

Knowing God

God’s Story is Our Story

March 17, 2026 ITWMinistries Leave a comment

God’s appointed time

Last week, we introduced two frameworks for interpreting history: biblical and humanist. In humanism, history is the story of what humanity can achieve on its own. The biblical view, in contrast, teaches us that God acts within human history where God reveals Himself through human events. It is God’s story.

In God’s appointed time (kairos) the activities of mankind were fitted into God’s plan. A few examples include the return of Israel from foreign exile (Isaiah 45:1), Jesus Christ’s birth and crucifixion (Genesis 3:15; Daniel 9:26). Humanity established the societal and political means by which God’s will would be realized. Governments were established and practices created that would allow God’s plan to unfold.

Are we continuing to live in God’s kairos time? Looking back, where have we seen God’s imprint on history? Today, is God revealing Himself in the plans of mankind? Looking to the future, is God moving us to another appointed time? The answer to these questions is a resounding, “yes”.

God’s story is the story of the World

The idea that the story of God is the story of the world supports the biblical view that history is not a series of random events, but purposeful. History is viewed as “His-story” with a beginning (Creation) and final conclusion (New Creation). Unlike cyclical views of history where events just repeat, God’s story is headed to a specific goal—restoration of the world and our relationship with God.

The Bible captures God’s story and involvement in the world as He restores what was broken by human rebellion. Below captures the most prevalent explanations.

- Creation: God creates the world and humanity for relationship and for flourishing.
- Fall: Humanity’s rebellion introduced sin, suffering, and brokenness into the entire world.
- Redemption: God initiated a plan to reclaim the world through Jesus Christ.
- Restoration (or New Creation): God restores the world to its original harmony and dwells with His people.

Our role is God’s story

We are the key characters in God’s story. God’s beloved creatures and recipients of His love and grace. Hopefully, understanding God’s story, we will reframe how we view our lives. We begin to understand that life only makes sense when founded on God’s redemptive story.

Instead of focusing on our own independent stories, we will embrace the fact that we are part of a larger story, authored by God the Father. We join God in his mission of restoration and stewardship.

In review of God’s story, we can begin to answer fundamental questions about our personal identity.

Who am I? We are children of God and created in the image of God. (1 John 3:12)
Why am I here? To participate in the building of God’s Kingdom. (1 Corinthians 3:9)
Where am I going? To a better hope and glory with God. (Romans 15:13)

Knowing God’s story can answer persistent questions concerning not only our life but the lives of those around us, including our nation. It also is the entry point for God to provide His power, His provision, and His presence. Understanding God’s story will reduce the fear and anxiety created by living in 21^st century reality.

Knowing God

What is God’s Story?

March 10, 2026 ITWMinistries Leave a comment

Our View of the World

What is our view of the world today? Where are we headed as a people? How do we respond to the events happening real time in our individual lives, in our communities, and in our world? More importantly, where is God in the mix of all these happenings? With everything that is occurring, we might wonder if God really cares about us. Never doubt, God cares! (Psalm 139:17)

There are those who have a cartoonish view of God and His relationship with His creation. Some see God as “a man viewing an ant in a fishbowl”. He is seen as distant, detached, and disconnected. That may be how we feel as we view the world around us today. But as I stated at the beginning of this teaching, God has a plan.

God’s Plan Unfolding

The Triune God (Father, Son, and Holy Spirit) orchestrated their plan before the creation of the world. That redemptive plan (Roman 5:2) has been unfolding through the history of mankind and continues even today in the 21^st century. It is by His divine power and grace that we live, and move, and have our meaning (Acts 17:28)

Redemption’s plan is set in the historical context of the world. As chronicled from Genesis to Revelation, God has an eternal plan that restores man’s fellowship with God by the creation of an escape from death’s curse (Romans 5:2) and the rediscovery of the spiritual life. It is God’s plan to bring mankind to Himself (Ephesians 1:7-11) and ultimately to a new heaven and new earth (Revelation 21:1).

Knowing God is sovereign is enough to give us a good hope (2 Thessalonians 2:16). It assures us of our future well-being (Jeremiah 29:11). Why is this important? How is it relevant to us today? As we face the many challenges of life, many times our faith is shaken to the foundation. Understanding God’s plan, we can exchange our fear for bold confidence. (Psalm 20:7)

God’s Plan and History

There are basically three frameworks for interpreting history: biblical (God-centered), humanist (human-centered), and providential (divine-human partnership). For purpose of this teaching, we will focus on biblical and humanist.

In humanism, history is the story of what humanity can achieve on its own. Humanism teaches that history is primarily shaped by human thought, power, and progress. Humanity becomes the center of history.

In contrast, the biblical view, Scripture teaches that God acts within human history. History is not random or purely human driven; it is God revealing Himself through human events. God is active in the movement of human events and history (Acts 17:26-27)

The key differences are listed in the chart below.

HUMANIST VIEW	BIBLICAL VIEW
Humanity writes history	God authors history
Progress comes through human effort	Redemption comes through divine purpose
Religion interprets human experience	God reveals Himself in history
The future depends on human advancement	The future unfolds through God’s kingdom

The biblical or God-centered framework helps to undergird our faith walk and trust in God’s sovereignty. Who better can determine the direction and ultimate outcome of mankind than the Creator and Sustainer of heaven and earth. (Revelation 4:10)

Which STORY will we accept?

What are the foundational beliefs that support our acceptance of God’s plan? We can:

Embrace the sovereignty of God. God is sovereign and the supreme authority over everything in heaven and on earth (Daniel 4:35; Isaiah 46:10)
Accept Jesus Christ as our Lord and Savior. Through Jesus’ sacrifice we now have access to God’s presence, promises, provision, and protection. (Romans 5:1-5)
Understand historical events and personal struggles as part of “God’s Story”. They are for God’s glory and for the establishment of His kingdom on earth—the New Creation. (2 Peter 3:10-14)

We are not ants in a fishbowl. God loves us unconditionally and His love is everlasting (Jeremiah 31:3). As we embrace, accept, and understand God’s story, our faith will be strengthened. Then we will possess the resilience needed to navigate difficult times. We will prevail during the darkest of days because we know there is purpose in what we are experiencing. Better yet, we can prevail because “God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in times of trouble”. (Psalms 46:1-3)

Next week, well share how we fit in God’s Story.

Victorious Living

The Divine Through Time: Why Now?

February 24, 2026 ITWMinistries Leave a comment

The Divine through Time

In “God’s Divine Time in History”, we introduced the understanding that God has ordered and designed the environment in which we operate. This includes past, present, and future. All three eventually become “history”.

History is actually “His divine story”—the divine fulfillment of God’s plan in the world. What is that plan and how does it manifest itself in our life is the purpose in this short series entitled, “His Story: The Divine through Time”.

Why now?

It is important to continually reinforce our knowledge of who God is. Knowing God is foundational in securing our trust and our confidence (Psalms 27:1-3). This is especially true during difficult times when fear and doubt challenge our faith. When that happens, we can stand firmly on what we know about God and those things which He has revealed to us.

Those things God reveals can answer persistent questions concerning not only our life but the lives of those around us, including our nation. How we respond to things revealed become the entry point for God to provide His power, His provision, and His presence.

For such a time as this.

This study is important “for such a time as this” (Esther 4:14) as we face challenges that seem impossible. These challenges over time affect our mental health.[1]

In a nation grappling with polarization and uncertainty, the emotional undercurrents of daily life are becoming harder to ignore. The American Psychological Association’s latest Stress in America™ survey revealed that societal division is a significant stressor for many U.S. adults, suggesting loneliness and emotional disconnection have become a defining feature of life in America. In the survey — conducted online by The Harris Poll on behalf of APA among more than 3,000 U.S. adults ages 18 and older — 62% reported societal division as a significant source of stress in their lives.

Through better understanding God’s purpose and plan for the world and our individual lives, we can reduce the fear and anxiety created by living in 21^st century reality.

It begins with understanding God’s Sovereignty

It is important to understand God’s sovereignty as we begin our study of God’s story through time. By embracing the fact that God is sovereign and the supreme authority over everything in heaven and on earth (Daniel 4:35; Isaiah 46:10), we can better navigate our challenges.

In his book, The Sovereignty of God, A.W. Tozer, pastor, author, and spiritual mentor, cries out for renewed understanding of God’s sovereignty.

Present day conditions call loudly for a new examination and new presentation of God’s omnipotence, God’s sufficiency, God’s sovereignty. From every pulpit in the land it needs to be thundered forth that God still lives, that God still observes, that God still reigns. Faith is now in the crucible; it is being tested by fire, and there is no fixed and sufficient resting-place for the heart and mind but in the throne of God. What is needed now, as never before, is a full, positive, constructive setting forth of the Godhead of God.

Because of God’s sovereignty we can begin to access God’s power and presence. This helps to strengthen our faith and build the personal resilience we need to persevere. The uncertainties and insecurities we experience today can now be transferred to God who is the only one who can do something about them (2 Corinthians 12:9).

[1] Mental health is the component of behavioral health that includes our emotional, psychological, and social well-being. Mental health is a state of well-being that enables us to cope with the stresses of life, realize our abilities, learn well and work well, and contribute to our community.

Spiritual Renewal

Finding True Rest: A Biblical Perspective

December 2, 2025 ITWMinistries Leave a comment

The Biblical view of rest

Earlier in this series, we asked the question, “Do you need rest?” We examined the three (3) biblical rests God has provided for His Covenant people. Sabbath rest, Canaan rest, and Eternal rest.

We concluded that accessing these rests is possible through development of an intimate relationship with God. Our rest can be found in listening to His voice and obeying Him. We closed with Lawrence O. Richards’ explanation that Christians often struggle with learning how to enter God’s rest. God’s rest is a place of confidence and contentment that can only be found in relationship with Him.

The Scientific view of rest

In her Ted Talk, “The 7 Types of rest that every person needs,” Dr. Saundra Dalton-Smith, shares what is really needed for us to rest. My biggest take away was the fact that we often mistakenly view rest as sleep.

“We go through life thinking we’ve rested because we have gotten enough sleep — but in reality we are missing out on the other types of rest we desperately need. The result is a culture of high-achieving, high-producing, chronically tired and chronically burned-out individuals. We’re suffering from a rest deficit because we don’t understand the true power of rest. “

Dr. Smith concludes her study with the definition of spiritual rest. She describes it as feeling a “deep sense of belonging, love, acceptance, and purpose”. She recommends that to receive spiritual rest, one needs to “engage in SOMETHING GREATER THAN YOURSELF, ADD PRAYER, MEDITATION, OR COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT.”

For me, and believers in Christ, that “deep belonging, love, acceptance, and purpose” is found in Christ. Christ is the better rest.

A Better Rest

Paul states that in Christ, “we live, and move, and have our meaning” (Acts 17:28). This includes our time of rest. Even during our physical rest, we must not forget to maintain relationship with Jesus. It is in acknowledging the Lord’s presence, that our better rest begins.

Jesus invites the crowds in Matt. 11: 28-29 to “come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.” Jesus offers rest.

After the disciples had returned from their mission trip (Mark 6:7-13), Jesus instructs then to “come with me by yourselves to a quiet place and get some rest.” Jesus is rest.

“Alone time” with God can allow God to examine us. It can be a time of knowing God more deeply, a time of strengthening, a time of refreshment, a time of sharing our deepest concerns with God, and a time of simply being with the One who formed us and loves us beyond our understanding.[1]

Rest: How do we enter it?

The rest we need can only be found in relationship with Jesus. It is “relational rest”. This rest can be found in the practice of spiritual disciplines. Spiritual disciplines are not an end in themselves. Spiritual disciplines are intended to deepen our relationship with God.[2]

Prayer	Talking to God
Meditation	Listening to God
Solitude	Alone with God
Contemplation	Thinking about God
Worship	Glorifying God

I close with a formula on how to enter God’s rest. Feel free to develop your own. The main thing to remember is to keep Christ as the source of your rest.

R. Reflection. Daily examine where God has been at work. This will foster awareness of God’s presence.

E. Exchange. Trade-out Satan’s lies for God’s truths. This will increase your wisdom and discernment.

S. Solace. Find comfort and consolation in God’s presence. This will strengthen your confidence.

T. Transformation. Each day seek to be conformed to the image of Christ. This will please God.

[1] Got Questions, “What does the Bible say about the value of solitude?”

[2] Rev. Dr. Wallace S. Hartsfield, “A Prayer for Presence.”

Spiritual Endurance

Wilderness Living 2025

October 28, 2025 ITWMinistries Leave a comment

Experiencing Wilderness Living

Are we experiencing wilderness living? I’m not talking about a survival challenge where one willingly goes into the wilderness to test their mental and physical endurance. This wilderness experience is usually thought of as tough times in which we endure major trials and tribulation. During such times, we are unable to enjoy life because of the unceasing stress and strain over conditions in which we have no control. Such is the case with “Wilderness Living 2025”.

Our current world is presenting us with challenges we have never faced before. These events, without a doubt, test our mental, physical, and spiritual endurance. It feels like a bad dream repeated on a continuous loop.

Struggles for power, influence, and control have resulted in strife and evil of every type—locally, nationally, and internationally. James must have had these times in mind when he wrote: “Where envy and strife is, there is confusion and every evil work” (James 3:16). Such is the case with “Wilderness Living 2025”.

God revealed during wilderness living

For the nations of Israel, living in captivity in Babylon and Assyria was their experience with “wilderness living.” For seventy (70) years they were removed from those things which they loved the most—their land, their temple, and most importantly, their God. But God, through His prophet Isaiah, sent words of consolation to Israel during their wilderness experience. He promised to do a new thing (Isaiah 43:16-19).

New in Hebrew means to renew, rebuild, or repair. During these times of uncertainty and chaos all three actions are needed. Our minds need to be renewed versus being conformed to the insanity of the world (Romans 12:1-2). We need to rebuild and repair our relationships (Romans 12:17-18). We are divided by so many things—our political views, our racial makeup, our economic position. Satan has used these factors to polarize us and negate Jesus’ mandate to love one another (Matthew 5:43-44).

God promised Israel that He would not only renew, rebuild, and repair that which was loss during the exile, but He would also, do the impossible— “make a way in the wilderness, and rivers in the desert.” God would revive Israel physically and spiritually.

Through our wilderness experience, God is CONTINUALLY renewing, rebuilding, and repairing our lives (Psalm 130:5).

Facing wilderness living

Wilderness experiences are times in our lives when we feel powerless and lack those things that bring us happiness, contentment, and peace. Wilderness living is different for everyone.

For some people wilderness living may be survival—inability to provide for physical and emotional needs. It may be relational—failed, estranged, or disappointing relationships. For still others, wilderness living may be experiential—moments of personal loss, loneliness, or misfortune. No two wildernesses are the same.

Our spiritual man may also feel strained. Our faith is challenged as we try to make sense of what God is doing not only in the world but in our lives. We feel alone and isolated. We may even think God has left us and no longer hears our prayers. Is God with us in our wilderness? He answers, “Yes!” It’s in His Word (Psalms 91:15; Isaiah 43:2; Isaiah 49:15).

Living in the wilderness

John Eldredge, New York Times bestselling author of “Resilient: Restoring your weary soul in these Turbulent Times” shares his thoughts about living in wilderness:

One of the first warnings Jesus gave us about living through [these] times was simply don’t “freak out”. Unflappable Jesus, the most level-headed guy ever, simply refuse to get baited into any of the drama of his own day. And he urges us to be unflappable too. Jesus knew that everything was going to be shouting for our attention, trying to get us all spun up. It wears a soul down. And there is a way out.

Regardless of our wilderness experience, we can ALWAYS trust God. We can relinquish control to God’s sovereign will and His steadfast love (Psalm 18:1-3). He cares about everything that keeps us awake at night—our family, our provision, and our future. God will sustain us. While we have no forecast as to where these times may lead us, we DO have the blessed assurance that God is with us and for us (Psalm 119:116). As we strengthen our intimacy with Him, we will find true contentment, and peace, even during “Wilderness Living 2025” (Revelations 21:7).