Tag Archives: Trust in God

Rest in the Wilderness

November 18, 2025 ITWMinistries Leave a comment

Finding our wilderness rest

Rest. Who needs rest? We all do! Health professionals agree that the need for rest is critical. It is essential for our overall well-being. This includes our emotional health and cognitive performance.

But how can we rest? 21^st century living has introduced a unique set of challenges that radically impair our ability to rest. Our current life experiences have resulted in heightened anxiety within our families, our cities, and our nation.

Similarly, rest for believers has always been (and will continue to be) challenging. This is because we live in a fallen world. However, the writer of Hebrews (Hebrews 4:9-11) offers a “viable solution”. He invites believers to enter God’s rest.

Defining rest

Webster defines rest as not only sleep but also as freedom from worry or trouble. Rest in the Bible is used most frequently in non-theological terms.

However, it takes on spiritual meaning when used in relationship to God and His people. Most specifically, when used in reference to the Old and New Covenant.

God addresses wilderness rest

In the Old Testament, Sabbath rest is first introduced in Genesis as God ceases from His work of creation (Genesis 2:2-3). God later commanded Sabbath rest as part of the Mosaic Law (Exodus 31:15). He knew that all living creatures needed physical renewal.

Canaan rest began with the deliverance of the children of Israel from Egypt. Rest was defined as deliverance from slavery. Canaan rest established protection from and victory over Israel’s enemies as they entered into the Promised Land (Joshua 14:15). By following God’s commandments, Israel would no longer be threatened by attack from Canaanite inhabitants (Joshua 23:1). Peace in the land would be their rest.

Most importantly, Jesus Christ’s arrival and selfless act of atonement introduced us to God’s Eternal rest. This rest surpassed those previously offered beginning with precious promises (2 Peter 1:4) and the indwelling of the Holy Spirit (John 14:17, 26). Believer’s eternal rest will culminate with Jesus Christ in eternity.

Accessing God’s rest

Accessing God’s rest is possible through development of an intimate relationship with Him. Our rest can be found in listening to His voice and obediently acquiescing to His will (John 10:27). For example, believers should let God’s Word and Spirit guide us. God has already provided solutions for our problems therefore releasing us from unnecessary anxiety and fear.

On this matter of rest, Lawrence O. Richards, noted theologian writes: “The struggle Christians are engaged in is not that of finding their way through life but of entering God’s rest.” That is, believers need to be more responsive to the Lord.

Responding to rest in the wilderness

We can find rest as we listen for and respond to the Lord’s voice. We trust the Creator of all rests—Sabbath rest, Canaan rest, and Eternal rest.

Only Sovereign God can create, deliver, and protect. He gives use victory over the challenges we face (Romans 8:37). God knows the end from the beginning and His purpose will stand (Isaiah 46:8-10). It is God’s desire that we live more fully as recipients of His gift of rest. He invites us to draw near.

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).

Our Faith Walk

Throwback Wednesday: When Life KEEPS Happening

October 14, 2025 ITWMinistries Leave a comment

“Life keeps on life-ing!”

Does it seem as though life is getting harder to navigate? Well, guess what? It is!

I understand that “life lived under the sway of sin and Satan”, will continue its path of destruction. “Life keeps on life-ing”; leading to disappointment, pain, and suffering (Galatians 6:7-8).

I know that as long as we live in this fallen world, we will face trials and tribulations (John 16:33). However, as believers, our peace, our confidence, and our expectations can only come from the Lord, who made heaven and earth AND who is aware of everything that we are currently facing (Proverbs 15:3; Hebrews 4:13).

With these thoughts in mind, I’d like to share for this Throwback Wednesday, “When Life Happens.” While it was originally written for a personal application of life happenings, it is most appropriate as we formulate our responses to the events happening both locally and nationally.

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.

Our Faith Walk

Two Boats and a Helicopter

April 27, 2025 ITWMinistries Leave a comment

The choices we make

I’m sure you have heard the story about the man who faced imminent danger as a result of a flood that begun to ravage his community. The flood waters became higher, forcing him to retreat to the roof of his house. On two occasions, individuals in boats beckoned him to climb into their boats and save his life. But he refused and shouted back from his roof, “I’m a Christian! God will save me!”

Finally, the waters rose to the edge of the roof. Suddenly a helicopter appeared and begged the man to grab the dropped latter and be saved. Well, you know what happened! The man refused and ultimately died. When he entered heaven, he demanded to see God. “Why did you let me drown?” Instead of striking him down with a lightening bolt, God calmly replied, “Hey, I sent you two boats and a helicopter.”

As we face the challenges and problems in our life, we often fail to watch and follow the leads that God sends us. Many of these are given to us before we enter our trial. However, when we’re in that dire situation, so is God! God is there AND He wants us to use the resources He has provided for us. Such was the case with Moses as he faced his first hurdle–leaving Egypt.

After Moses and the Israelites left Egypt, Pharoah had “seller remorse”. God hardened his heart and caused him to regret letting the Israelite slaves leave (Exodus 7:14). He probably felt like he had been duped. Who would do the work that the Israelites did? Egypt’s economy would probably suffer, not to mention their quality of life—who would cook, clean, and serve them? So much for Pharoah right now, let’s return to Moses’ dilemma.

The dilemma

As Pharoah and his army approached, the Israelites looked up, and there were the Egyptians, marching after them. They were terrified and cried out to the Lord. They said to Moses, “Weren’t there enough graves in Egypt that you brought us out here to the desert to die? What have you done to us by bringing us out of Egypt?”

The complaints escalated. Moses tried to reassure the Israelites that everything would be alright. He tried to coach them to “stand firm” and “be still”. God would fight for them! (Exod. 14:13-14). Moses told them that they would see the salvation of the LORD on that day. But all they could see were Egyptians bringing up the rear fast. They could not see God!

As I read this passage, I saw myself when facing hard times and challenges. I tend to see only what I can look at with my physical eyes—loss of health, injustice, change in relationships, economic uncertainty.

It’s even harder for me to “be still”. I need to fix this situation and now. I see only me standing before the Red Sea. But all is not loss—I’ll tell you why in a few. Back to Moses.

“Any old help will do.”

I’m sure Moses cried to God. Exactly what he said is not included in the scripture text. But the Lord used this moment to speak directly to Moses. Was God going to tell him that help was on the way? Was He sending two boats and a helicopter?

The Lord said to Moses, “Why do you cry to Me? Tell the children of Israel to go forward” (Exod. 14:15).

Moses probably thought, “Really? Red Sea before me and Egyptians behind me.” Sometimes when we pray, God’s answers don’t always make sense to us at first. But that’s where our faith in God—His greatness and His goodness—reinforces the need to obey His instructions (Heb. 11:1).

God gave Moses an answer he didn’t expect: “Raise your staff and stretch out your hand over the sea to divide the water so that the Israelites can go through the sea on dry ground.” (Exod. 14:16)

Moses had the answer to His dilemma “right in his hand” PLUS the power of God. Moses and his staff would be the conduit God would use to not only deliver the Israelites but also glorify God. This act of deliverance would spread throughout the countryside including to the potential tribes in the Promise Land whom the Israelites would need to conquer (Exod. 14:18).

When you need help…

From this study, I came to the following conclusions about what to do when I need help.

1. Assess what I currently have available to address my problem. I will not only inventory what I have with my “physical eyes” (my mind and my intellect) but also with my “spiritual eyes”. When I read God’s Word, especially His promises and follow that with prayer, I can expect God to show me what to do. I have learned that God’s ways, methods, and timing are not the same as mine (Is. 55:8-9). THEY ARE BETTER!

1. “Lift up to God” the resources He has already provided for my solution. Moses failed to remember that God had told him that He would go with him on the journey to the Promised Land. He had forgotten how God used Moses’ staff in the court of Pharoah (Exod. 4:3). Sometimes I refuse to move forward until I have “all the information and answers”. When that happens, it is important for me to call to remembrance (Is. 46:9,10) where God has stepped in to join me in my battles (2 Chron. 20:6-7, 12).

1. Move forward. I am still learning each day to move forward when directed by God. I guess it’s part of being human. I am learning to move “more quickly” when God directs me and learning to trust Him more.

In my moments of prayer and meditation, I ask God to show me those areas of my life where I sin by being prideful or self-reliant. He uses that time together to gently redirect my attention away from my problems and look to Him. God is greater than any problem we may face and better equipped to solve them. Only God can guarantee our success!

When God created us, He not only placed His purpose within us but also placed the ability to complete that purpose (Phil. 1:6). As God prepares our path, He also prepares us for the path. It is our responsibility to believe, to trust, and then obey.

Conclusion

The next time you need help, deliverance, or an answer for life’s challenges, don’t always look for a miracle from God. He doesn’t need to come to our rescue. God is always with us. We daily live not in God’s miracles but by His lovingkindness and grace. He is there to help us see the resources He has already provided for our escape (Eph. 1:17-20).

Prayer: O Heavenly Father, grow within us the faith we need for the challenges we face. Train us to look at our problems as opportunities to partner with You in their resolution. Forgive us when we lean on our own understanding. Place in our heart an expectation that You are with us and will always act on our behalf. Lord, finally, help us to “Go forward” in Your name and by Your power. Amen

Knowing God

What is God revealing?

March 25, 2025 ITWMinistries Leave a comment

As stated last week, secret things belong to God. Revealed things, however, belong to us and to our children so that we may follow God’s law. They are truths which God has communicated through the Bible and His Holy Spirit. These also include those things revealed through the whole counsel of God.

This truth, found in Deuteronomy 29:29, falls in the fourth address to the children of Israel by Moses. It is a summary of the covenant demands and an appeal for covenant obedience (Deut. 29:2-29).

For the Israelites, the secret things of the LORD probably referred to future details that God had not revealed to Moses. Yet what He had revealed (e.g., future judgment for disobedience, future blessing for obedience, His requirement for holiness, etc.) was enough to encourage the Israelites to follow all the words of the Law.[1]

Is God’s revealed truth enough to encourage 21^st century believers to trust and obey Him? To answer this question, let’s consider four (4) tenets of faith currently revealed by God in His Word and through His Spirit.

These are not meant to be exhaustive, but have proven to anchor one’s faith during tumultuous times (Heb. 6:19). As we look at our current world situation, it is easy to become weary. Hopefully, these revealed truths will encourage us not to “lose heart” (2 Cor. 4:16-17).

What has God revealed?

Our Knowledge of Him (2 Pet. 1:3-5). Jesus came not only to acquire our salvation but to also manifest (reveal) the Father’s name (nature) to His children (John 17:6; 26). Armed with that knowledge, we believers have access to divine power and precious promises. God has also provided us with spiritual wisdom and insight through His Holy Spirit (1 Cor. 2:9-10).

Our Identity (Eph. 1:3-4). Identity is defined as the set of characteristics by which a thing is definitively recognized or known. God chose us to be adopted as sons, heirs and joint heirs with Christ (Rom. 8:17). Our identity also connects us with other believers in God’s universal Church. Because of our identity we have access to everything we need to accomplish God’s purpose for our life and His kingdom. (Eph. 2:10)

Our Salvation (2 Cor. 5:17). We are new creatures in Christ. Because of Christ’s substitutional death on the Cross, we have been set free from the penalty and power of sin in our life. This freedom will be fully experienced once in heaven where we will be delivered from the presence of sin (Rev. 21:4).

Our Hope (Rom. 4:18-21). Hope is simply defined as the expectation of future good. “Biblical hope is the anticipation of a favorable outcome under God’s guidance. More specifically, hope is the confidence that what God has done for us in the past guarantees our participation in what God will do in the future. This contrasts to the world’s definition of hope as a feeling that what is wanted will happen.”[2]

What keeps us from trusting what God has revealed?

One reason we may not trust what God is revealing is because we fail to recognize it. In the 2020 Barna study, “Signs of Decline & Hope Among Key Metrics of Faith”, it is noted that there are fewer “faith engagements” occurring among both believers and non-believers. These include Bible reading, prayer, and church attendance. These activities are critical to gaining an understanding of what God has revealed in the past and what God is revealing in the present.

The U.S. population is undergoing major religious, social, demographic and digital change. The rise of digital life, including social media, the economic crisis, changing attitudes about social issues and the emergence of younger generations on the scene are some of the factors that are likely to form undercurrents recalibrating Americans’ connection to faith and to Christianity.

Another reason we may not trust what God is revealing is because we choose not to believe. One’s disbelief may be tied to the feeling that religion and the Bible are no longer relevant to 21^st century living. Such beliefs are not new. The Apostle Paul warned the young minister Timothy that the time would come when people would not endure sound doctrine (2 Tim. 4:3-5). People are choosing other forms of spirituality that “better accommodate” their chosen life style and worldview.

Finally, we may not trust what God is revealing because we choose not to obey God. Have you ever noticed that when a person is auguring over a specific teaching from the Bible, it is often connected to a personal obedience challenge they are facing in their life? Obedience is more than just following the letter of the law. It is discerning what God would want and then seeking that outcome.

So where do we go from here?

As we discover things revealed (and the list is infinite), we gain access to the very mind of God (Rom. 11:33-36). Things revealed may be answers to those persistent questions concerning God’s purpose for our life. Our receptivity to things revealed may be our entry to God’s power, presence, and provision.

Our life and the current challenges of 21^st century living may seem impossible, but with God’s grace and favor, nothing is impossible. We need only trust in Him and in the things He has revealed.

[1] The Bible Knowledge Commentary , Old Testament

[2] Holman Bible Dictionary

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.

Our Faith Walk

Throwback Wednesday: How Are You Holding Up?

February 18, 2025 ITWMinistries Leave a comment

How are you holding up?

In recounting the major events of this century, I better understand the severe damage they have had on us, and on our view of life. Pandemics, wars, terrorism (domestic and foreign), social strife, natural disasters and so much more. Our personal lives have also been affected as we navigate changes in responsibilities, relationships, and work life.

It has been exhausting! These shifts, and dips of life, have required more than “pushing through”. It has necessitated more than “hanging on”. It requires that we cling even more closely to God. God’s presence and power is the only true source of resiliency.

In John 16:33, Jesus shares this truth with His Disciples. We can place our trust in this truth as we move into 2025 and beyond.

In this world you will have tribulation but be of good cheer. I HAVE OVERCOME THE WORLD.

The Amplified Version of Jesus’ words encourage us even more.

In the world you have tribulation and distress and suffering, but be courageous [be confident, be undaunted, be filled with joy]; I have overcome the world.” [My conquest is accomplished, My victory abiding.]

Because of “these times” in which we live, it is imperative that we holdfast our faith. Our trust and belief in Sovereign God is essential not only for our physical and mental well-being, but also for our spiritual perseverance and endurance (Psalm 18:1-2).

To help us on our faith journey, I’d like to share for this Throwback Wednesday, a message that is important to remember when facing 21^st century challenges and tribulation: “Don’t Let Go Your Faith!”

Victorious Living

On the Road to God’s New Thing

February 4, 2025 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 (Ephesians 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 Peter 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. (Philippians 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.

Victorious Living

God’s Reason for New Things

January 28, 2025 ITWMinistries Leave a comment

Why change?

Last week we invited you to new things in 2025. Maybe your life is going great and you have no need to change. Great! But for the rest of us, we realize that as the world changes, we too, must make sure that the way we are operating is within the will of God and His purpose for our lives.

Why resist?

It is human nature to resist doing new things even if new things offer more than the status quo. The Book of Numbers takes us to where we observe the impact of a nation’s resistance to “new things” with respect to God and His divine purpose for their life.

But if the LORD make a new thing and the earth open her mouth, and swallow them up, with all that appertain unto them, and they go down quick into the pit; then ye shall understand that these men have provoked the LORD. Num. 16:30 (KJV)

What should have been an eleven-day journey resulted in a forty year “funeral procession” (Num. 14:28-29; 32-35). Regardless of Israel’s opposition, God would show them a reason for His new thing.

Resistant and rebellious until the end!

From the time of their departure, Israel complained and was rebellious against not only the leadership of Moses and Aaron but also against God Himself. Israel had seen the many miracles of God yet in their hearts, regardless of what God did for them, “Israel had Egypt in their hearts. ” [1]

Where is your heart? When God attempts to move you to your divine purpose, do you complain and murmur? Is your affection set on the things of this world when God’s plan offers much more? (Col. 3:2-4)

New things may come with a price.

Read Numbers 15:1-20:13

Motivated by jealousy and envy, Korah, Dathan, and Abiram attempted to seize the priesthood from Aaron and his sons. In so doing, they also challenged the sovereignty and authority of God.

In the wilderness, God would teach Israel a painful lesson about the reason for “new things”—about sacrifice, authority, and responsibility.

That “new thing” would come with a price—it would cost Korah, Dathan, and Abiram their life, their families’ lives plus the lives of 14,700 people within Israel’s camp.

One of the reasons for God’s severity in punishing Israel was to prepare the way for His new thing—a people who would accept the “new beginning” He had readied for them in the Promised Land. It would be there that Israel would experience new victories, a new priest (Eleazar), a new leader (Joshua), and a new generation.

How does God use “new things” in our life?

- God might need to reset or reboot our current efforts. Stalled plans, ungodly influences or fleshly lusts can often take us off the path God sovereignly chooses for us. God’s intervention will guarantee success. (Phil. 1:6)

- God may desire to take us out of our comfort zone. He may even allow “trials and tribulations” into our life to move us forward. In trusting and waiting on the Lord, we find courage to persevere as we pursue God’s plan for our life. (1 Pet. 1:6-7)

- God could choose to introduce us to an opportunity that may not have been on our radar screen. It is in those moments we can depend wholly on God to bring prospects into our life that will result in our good and His glory. (Matt. 7:11)

God always has a reason for introducing new things into our life.

They may not be easy but they are always worth it. We may not understand “why” but we can trust “Who” (God).

In the past when faced with new things, I was like Israel, guilty of complaining and murmuring. Out of fear and frustration, I would cry, “Lord, why me?” I now choose God’s path for my life and when faced with “new things” I sigh in faith and confidence, “Lord, it’s YOU and me!”

[1] Wiersbe Bible Commentary