god’s power

21
Nov
2024
Finding Courage in God’s Spirit

Finding Courage in God’s Spirit

“For the Spirit God gave us does not make us timid, but gives us power, love and self-discipline.”

2 Timothy 1:7

Have you ever felt that knot in your stomach when facing something scary?

Maybe it’s speaking in public, starting a new job, or making an important decision.

Fear can feel like a heavy weight pressing down on your shoulders, making you want to retreat into your comfort zone.

Breaking Free from Fear

Here’s the amazing truth – God hasn’t given you a spirit of fear.

Think about that for a moment.

The anxiety, worry, and intimidation you might be feeling? That’s not from Him. Instead, He’s equipped you with something much more powerful.

Three-Part Gift

Let’s look at what God has actually given you:

  1. Power – This isn’t just any power. It’s the same divine strength that raised Jesus from the dead. When you feel weak, remember that this supernatural power lives in you.
  2. Love – Not just warm feelings, but practical, active love that gives you courage to reach out to others despite your fears.
  3. Self-discipline – Or as some translations say, “sound mind.” This is the ability to stay clear-headed and make wise decisions even when emotions run high.

Practical Application

Think about an area where fear has been holding you back. Maybe you’ve been afraid to:

  • Share your faith with a friend
  • Take on a new responsibility at church
  • Make a needed life change
  • Stand up for what’s right

Now, consider how each part of God’s gift applies to your situation:

  • His power gives you the strength to act
  • His love helps you focus on others instead of your fears
  • His self-discipline keeps you steady and focused

Moving Forward with Confidence

Remember, you’re not trying to manufacture courage on your own. God has already given you everything you need.

It’s like having a full bank account – the resources are there, you just need to access them.

Taking the Next Step

Start small. Choose one fear-inducing situation today and face it with the awareness of God’s Spirit within you.

When anxiety rises, pause and remind yourself:

“God hasn’t given me a spirit of fear. He’s given me power, love, and self-discipline.”

Daily Reminder

Place this verse somewhere you’ll see it often – maybe as your phone background or on your bathroom mirror. Let it be your go-to truth when fear tries to take over.

Prayer

“Father, thank you for not leaving me alone with my fears. Help me remember that Your Spirit gives me power when I feel weak, love when I feel intimidated, and self-discipline when I feel overwhelmed. Show me how to live in the confidence You’ve given me. Amen.”

Remember, you’re equipped with everything you need to face what’s ahead. The Spirit within you is greater than any fear before you.

You’ve got this – not because you’re so capable on your own, but because God has given you His Spirit of power, love, and self-discipline.

What fear will you face today with your God-given courage?

Upside Down: 15 Week Bible Study

 You Have Been Seated with Christ in the Heavenly Realms

God’s great hope for us is not simply the forgiveness of sins and a place in heaven when we die; but rather, He wants us totally restored, in heart, mind and soul . . . NOW!

As we enter into this amazing adventure with God, we soon recognize that we are a part of something tremendous, something that is beyond our earthy perspective, and we are transported into the heavens with Christ; we live, breathe, and find our being in Him!

This Bible study will help you rediscover how it all began, what happened in the Garden of Eden, who is the Devil really, and what is he up to today.

  • Head into the heavenly realms and discover profound truths concerning your relationship with God, and His incredible plan for you.
  • Search your heart, preparing for a fresh baptism of the Holy Spirit. In this study, you will enter into God’s armory, suiting up with the whole armor of God.
  • Discover the Keys to the Kingdom given to you, and learn what they unlock; discovering your true nature in Christ, the authority given, the Sword of the Spirit, the covering armor, and the mission ahead, you will truly learn to pray . . . Upside Down!

Get your copy Today – Pray Upside Down

Posted by onthesolidrock in Daily Inspiration, Love
31
Oct
2024
When Creation Trembles: Understanding God’s Power

When Creation Trembles: Understanding God’s Power

“The mountains quake before him and the hills melt away. The earth trembles at his presence, the world and all who live in it.”

Nahum 1:5

Awesome Power

Have you ever experienced an earthquake, even a small one? That feeling of the ground moving under your feet is unforgettable.

Now imagine power so immense it makes mountains shake and hills dissolve. That’s the kind of power Nahum is describing – the incredible might of our God.

Understanding the Picture

What This Tells Us About God

Think about it: Mountains represent the most stable, unmovable things we know. Yet before God, they’re like Jell-O on a plate! This shows us:

  • His unlimited power
  • His complete authority
  • His sovereign control
  • His overwhelming presence

Beyond Natural Events

While Nahum uses nature to describe God’s power, this isn’t just about earthquakes and volcanoes. It’s about understanding how:

  • Nothing is too solid for God to shake
  • No problem is too established to change
  • No situation is beyond His control
  • No obstacle is too big for Him

Personal Application

What This Means for You

When life feels like:

  • Your problems are mountain-sized
  • Obstacles seem unmovable
  • Situations appear unchangeable Remember: The God who makes mountains tremble can handle your challenges.

Finding Comfort in His Power

This verse might sound scary, but it’s actually reassuring. Why? Because this all-powerful God is:

  • On your side
  • Working in your life
  • Fighting your battles
  • Supporting your journey

Today’s Prayer

Mighty God, sometimes I forget how powerful you really are. Help me remember that the same power that makes mountains quake is available in my life. Thank you for being both mighty and merciful. Amen.

Making It Real

When You Feel Small

Remember:

  1. God’s power is active today
  2. His strength is available to you
  3. No situation is hopeless
  4. His presence changes everything

Your Response

Think about the “mountains” in your life:

  • What seems unmovable?
  • What feels impossible?
  • Where do you need God’s power?

A Powerful Truth

Just as nature responds to God’s presence, your circumstances can change in His presence. No situation is too established, no problem too entrenched, no challenge too great for Him.

Practical Steps

  • Spend time in His presence
  • Trust His power
  • Expect Him to work
  • Watch for His movement

The Bigger Picture

When you’re facing your own personal mountains, remember the God who:

  • Makes real mountains tremble
  • Causes hills to melt
  • Shakes the earth
  • Commands all creation

Remember, if God can move mountains, He can certainly move the obstacles in your path.

The key isn’t the size of your mountain – it’s the size of your God. And His power hasn’t diminished since Nahum wrote these words. He’s still the mountain-shaking, hill-melting God who works in the lives of His people today.

Upside Down: 15 Week Bible Study

 You Have Been Seated with Christ in the Heavenly Realms

God’s great hope for us is not simply the forgiveness of sins and a place in heaven when we die; but rather, He wants us totally restored, in heart, mind and soul . . . NOW!

As we enter into this amazing adventure with God, we soon recognize that we are a part of something tremendous, something that is beyond our earthy perspective, and we are transported into the heavens with Christ; we live, breathe, and find our being in Him!

This Bible study will help you rediscover how it all began, what happened in the Garden of Eden, who is the Devil really, and what is he up to today.

  • Head into the heavenly realms and discover profound truths concerning your relationship with God, and His incredible plan for you.
  • Search your heart, preparing for a fresh baptism of the Holy Spirit. In this study, you will enter into God’s armory, suiting up with the whole armor of God.
  • Discover the Keys to the Kingdom given to you, and learn what they unlock; discovering your true nature in Christ, the authority given, the Sword of the Spirit, the covering armor, and the mission ahead, you will truly learn to pray . . . Upside Down!

Get your copy Today – Pray Upside Down

Posted by onthesolidrock in Daily Inspiration
22
Oct
2024
God’s Promise of Victory

God’s Promise of Victory

Have you ever been reading through the Bible and suddenly come across a verse that just jumps off the page? That’s exactly what we find near the end of Paul’s letter to the Romans. Tucked away in what seems like a series of greetings and closing remarks, we stumble upon this gem in Romans 16:20.

“The God of peace will soon crush Satan under your feet.”

Romans 16:20

Wow! That’s quite a statement, isn’t it?

Breaking Down the Verse

“The God of peace”

It’s interesting that Paul starts by referring to God as the “God of peace.” This isn’t just a random title.

It reminds us that even in the midst of spiritual battles, God’s ultimate goal is peace.

He’s not a God of chaos or constant conflict, but One who brings harmony and wholeness.

“will soon crush Satan”

This is where things get really exciting. The word “crush” here is pretty intense.

It’s not just about winning a small victory; it’s about total defeat. And notice the certainty – it’s not “might” or “could,” but “will.” This is a promise you can count on.

“under your feet”

Now here’s the kicker – God doesn’t just promise to defeat evil in some distant, abstract way. He says it will happen “under YOUR feet.” You’re part of this victory!

This echoes back to God’s promise in Genesis 3:15, where He said the seed of the woman would crush the serpent’s head.

What This Means for You

So, how does this powerful promise apply to your life?

  1. You’re on the Winning Team

First and foremost, this verse is a reminder that if you’re in Christ, you’re on the winning side.

No matter how tough things might seem right now, the ultimate victory is already secured.

  1. Your Struggles are Temporary

Notice that Paul says God will crush Satan “soon.” While we don’t know exactly when this will happen fully, it reminds us that our current battles are not forever. There’s an expiration date on evil’s influence.

  1. You Have a Role to Play

The fact that Satan is crushed “under your feet” suggests that you’re not just a spectator in this victory.

You have an active part to play in standing against evil and living out God’s victory in your daily life.

  1. Peace and Victory Go Hand in Hand

Remember, this promise comes from the “God of peace.” True victory doesn’t lead to more conflict, but to lasting peace.

This is about restoration and wholeness, not just winning a fight.

Living in Light of This Promise

So how can you apply this truth to your everyday life? Here are some practical steps:

  1. Stand Firm in Faith

When you face temptation or spiritual opposition, remember that you’re standing on the winning side. Your job is to stand firm in what Christ has already accomplished.

  1. Claim God’s Promises

When you feel overwhelmed by evil – whether it’s personal temptation, injustice in the world, or spiritual warfare – remind yourself of this promise. Speak it out loud if you need to!

  1. Act with Confidence

Knowing that victory is assured, you can step out boldly to do what’s right. You don’t have to be paralyzed by fear of failure or opposition.

  1. Pursue Peace

Remember that God’s ultimate goal is peace. In your interactions with others and your response to evil, aim for restoration and wholeness rather than just winning arguments or proving points.

  1. Be Patient

While the victory is certain, we still live in the “already but not yet.” Some battles might take time. Trust God’s timing and keep pressing forward.

The Bigger Picture

It’s easy to get discouraged when we look at the world around us. We see evil, injustice, and pain, and sometimes it feels like the bad guys are winning. But this verse reminds us to zoom out and see the bigger picture.

God, the all-powerful Creator of the universe, has promised victory. Not just any victory, but a complete crushing of evil. And incredibly, He’s promised to do it through His people – through you!

So the next time you feel overwhelmed by evil – whether it’s a personal temptation, a difficult situation, or the broader problems in our world – remember this promise.

Stand tall. Hold your head high. And move forward with confidence, knowing that the God of peace will crush Satan under your feet.

You’re not just surviving until heaven. You’re part of God’s plan to bring His victory and peace into the world right now.

So lace up your spiritual boots and get ready to do some Satan-crushing! With the God of peace on your side, victory is assured.

Upside Down: 15 Week Bible Study

 You Have Been Seated with Christ in the Heavenly Realms

God’s great hope for us is not simply the forgiveness of sins and a place in heaven when we die; but rather, He wants us totally restored, in heart, mind and soul . . . NOW!

As we enter into this amazing adventure with God, we soon recognize that we are a part of something tremendous, something that is beyond our earthy perspective, and we are transported into the heavens with Christ; we live, breathe, and find our being in Him!

This Bible study will help you rediscover how it all began, what happened in the Garden of Eden, who is the Devil really, and what is he up to today.

  • Head into the heavenly realms and discover profound truths concerning your relationship with God, and His incredible plan for you.
  • Search your heart, preparing for a fresh baptism of the Holy Spirit. In this study, you will enter into God’s armory, suiting up with the whole armor of God.
  • Discover the Keys to the Kingdom given to you, and learn what they unlock; discovering your true nature in Christ, the authority given, the Sword of the Spirit, the covering armor, and the mission ahead, you will truly learn to pray . . . Upside Down!

Get your copy Today – Pray Upside Down

Posted by onthesolidrock in Daily Inspiration
15
Jun
2024
Reflecting on God’s Majesty

Reflecting on God’s Majesty

In the aftermath of a miraculous deliverance, the Israelites burst into a song of praise to God. Exodus 15:11 captures the awe and   wonder they felt:

“Who is like you among the gods, LORD? Who is like you, majestic in holiness, awesome in praises, working wonders?”

Exodus 15:11

This powerful verse is a declaration of God’s unmatched majesty and uniqueness. It asks a rhetorical question – there is simply no one who compares to Him. But what makes God so extraordinary?

The Many Facets of God’s Majesty

Exodus 15:11 highlights several aspects of God’s greatness:

  • Holiness: God is perfectly pure and set apart from all sin.
  • Awe-inspiring power: He performs miracles and displays His might in ways beyond human comprehension.
  • Deserving of praise: His character and actions evoke wonder and adoration.

Why Does God’s Uniqueness Matter?

Understanding God’s unique qualities is essential for our faith. Here’s why:

  • It fosters reverence: Recognizing His majesty cultivates a deep respect and awe for Him.
  • It builds trust: Knowing His power and faithfulness gives us confidence in His ability to care for us.
  • It motivates worship: His awesomeness inspires us to praise and glorify Him with all our hearts.

Reflecting on God’s Majesty in Our Lives

So how can we cultivate a deeper appreciation for God’s uniqueness? Here are some ways:

  • Spend time in nature: Witnessing the beauty and complexity of creation can reveal God’s artistry.
  • Read the Bible: Scripture reveals God’s character and actions throughout history.
  • Pray and meditate: Reflect on His goodness and faithfulness in your life.

By contemplating God’s unmatched majesty, you can grow closer to Him, experience a deeper sense of awe, and live a life that reflects His glory.

~ Check Out ~
“One Minute with God”

Posted by onthesolidrock in Daily Inspiration, Faith
10
May
2024
The Breath of Life: A Reflection on Job 33:4

The Breath of Life: A Reflection on Job 33:4

Life can knock us down. We face challenges, question our purpose, and sometimes just long for a deeper connection with something bigger than ourselves.

Job, a figure in the Bible, experienced immense suffering. Yet, in Job 33:4, a profound truth emerges:

“The Spirit of God has made me; the breath of the Almighty gives me life.”

Job 33:4

This verse unveils the presence and power of God’s Spirit in our lives.

  • Creator: We didn’t appear by accident. Job acknowledges God’s Spirit as the one who “made” him and breathed life into him. The same is true for us!
  • Teacher: Feeling lost or confused? God’s Spirit is there to guide us. He speaks through the Bible, nudges us towards wisdom, and reveals God’s will for our lives.
  • Savior: Job recognized God’s Spirit as his rescuer from “the pit” and “death.” The Holy Spirit plays a crucial role in our salvation too. He convicts us of sin, draws us to Christ, and offers the hope of eternal life.
  • Lord: Just as Job submitted to God’s Spirit, we too are called to follow His guidance. The Holy Spirit isn’t a distant force, but a powerful presence that can transform our lives when we surrender to His will.

Finding Hope Today

Feeling the weight of the world on your shoulders? Remember, God’s Spirit is with you, offering strength, comfort, and purpose. Here are some ways to connect with Him:

  • Read the Bible: This is God’s word, and the Holy Spirit can use it to speak to your heart.
  • Pray: Talking to God is a powerful way to invite the Holy Spirit’s presence.
  • Seek Christian community: Surrounding yourself with other believers can provide encouragement and support.

The breath of life isn’t just physical air. It’s the presence of God’s Spirit within us. As we open ourselves to Him, He can guide us through challenges, reveal His love, and fill our lives with purpose and hope.

~ Check Out ~
“One Minute with God”

Posted by onthesolidrock in Daily Inspiration, Humility, Thankfulness, Trust