trials

The Discipline of the Lord

The Discipline of the Lord

Discipline is often a difficult word to hear. We associate it with punishment, correction, and hardship.

However, the Bible teaches us that God’s discipline is a loving and necessary part of our spiritual growth.

 No discipline seems pleasant at the time, but painful. Later on, however, it produces a harvest of righteousness and peace for those who have been trained by it.

Hebrews 12:11

The Purpose of Discipline

In Hebrews 12:11, we learn that discipline is meant to produce a harvest of righteousness and peace.

It’s not about punishment for punishment’s sake; it’s about training us to become more like Christ.

  • Removing Sin: Discipline can help us identify and remove sinful habits or attitudes that are hindering our spiritual growth.
  • Developing Character: Trials and hardships can help us develop qualities like patience, perseverance, and humility.
  • Deepening Our Relationship with God: When we go through difficult times, we can learn to rely more on God and trust in His love.

The Painful Process

It’s important to remember that discipline is often painful. It can be difficult to endure trials and hardships.

But we must trust that God knows what is best for us and that His discipline is ultimately a loving act.

Reward of Righteousness and Peace

The reward for embracing God’s discipline is a harvest of righteousness and peace.

When we persevere through trials, we are strengthened in our faith and become more like Christ.

While discipline may be painful in the moment, it is a necessary part of our spiritual growth.

By trusting in God and persevering through trials, you can experience the harvest of righteousness and peace that He promises.

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, Discipline
The Fight for Faith

The Fight for Faith

The Christian life is not always easy. We face challenges, temptations, and trials that can test our faith. But Paul reminds us in 1 Timothy 6:12 that we are called to fight the good fight of faith.

Fight the good fight of the faith. Take hold of the eternal life to which you were called when you made your good confession in the presence of many witnesses.

1 Timothy 6:12

The Spiritual Battle

The Christian life is a spiritual battle.

We are not just fighting against our own sinful desires; we are also fighting against the forces of evil that seek to undermine our faith.

Satan and his demons are constantly trying to discourage us, tempt us, and lead us astray.

Persevering in Faith

To fight the good fight of faith, we must persevere. We must not give up when things get tough.

We must endure hardships, trials, and temptations.

The apostle Paul himself faced many challenges in his life, but he never gave up on his faith. He wrote, “I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith” (2 Timothy 4:7).

Eternal Reward

Those who persevere in their faith will receive an eternal reward. Paul reminds us in 1 Timothy 6:12 that we are called to take hold of the eternal life to which we were called when we confessed our faith in front of many witnesses.

When we confess our faith in Jesus Christ, we are declaring our allegiance to Him and our commitment to following Him.

This is a significant act that has eternal consequences.

The Christian life is a journey that requires perseverance and endurance. You must be willing to fight the good fight of faith and resist the temptations that come your way.

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

Posted by onthesolidrock in Daily Inspiration, Faith
Be Patient

Be Patient

Life can be tough, right? You face setbacks, bills pile up, and sometimes it feels like things will never get better. James 5:8 offers a message of hope and encouragement in the midst of trials.

“You too be patient. Strengthen your hearts, for the coming of the Lord is at hand.”

James 5:8

Why Wait? It’s Hard!

Let’s be honest, patience isn’t exactly our strong suit. We want instant gratification, and waiting can feel frustrating. But James uses the metaphor of a farmer waiting for the harvest. The farmer doesn’t give up because they know the harvest is coming, and it will be worth the wait.

Power of Patience

Here’s how patience can be your secret weapon:

  • Trusting God’s Timing: God has a plan, even when we can’t see it. Patience allows us to trust that He is working behind the scenes.
  • Developing Strength: Facing challenges builds resilience and spiritual maturity. Patience allows us to weather the storms and grow stronger.
  • Maintaining Hope: Patience keeps us focused on the future, knowing that brighter days are ahead.

The Harvest is Near!

James reminds us that “the coming of the Lord is at hand.” This doesn’t necessarily mean the end of the world, but a reminder of God’s ultimate victory and the reward that awaits those who remain faithful.

How to Be More Patient

  • Focus on God’s Faithfulness: Look back on how God has been faithful in the past. This builds trust for the future.
  • Seek God’s Strength: Pray for the patience to endure and the wisdom to navigate difficult times.
  • Keep Your Eyes on the Prize: Meditate on the promises of God and the hope of eternity.

James 5:8 doesn’t promise a trouble-free life. But it does offer a powerful message of hope.

By cultivating patience, you can face challenges with a stronger heart, knowing that the harvest is near and the reward is worth the wait.

Posted by onthesolidrock in Daily Inspiration, Faith
Woe to Those Who Long for Disaster

Woe to Those Who Long for Disaster

The Bible grapples with complex themes, including God’s justice and mercy. Amos 5:18 presents a seemingly harsh message, challenging those who long for the “Day of the Lord.”

The Prophet Amos: A Voice for Justice

Amos was a prophet who ministered in the northern kingdom of Israel during the 8th century BC. This period was marked by social injustice, corruption, and a false sense of security among the people.

Amos served as God’s mouthpiece, calling the nation to repentance.

“Woe to you who desire the day of the Lord! Why do you long for the day of the Lord? It is not a day of delight, but of trouble, not of light, but of darkness!”

Amos 5:18

Breaking it Down

At first glance, this verse seems to contradict God’s ultimate justice.

  • “Woe to you who desire the day of the Lord!”: The “Day of the Lord” refers to a time of God’s judgment. Amos warns against flippantly desiring this day.
  • “It is not a day of delight, but of trouble”: The day of judgment will bring hardship and consequences for those who have strayed from God’s path.
  • “Not of light, but of darkness”: This imagery signifies the absence of God’s favor and presence.

Why Does This Matter?

This verse compels us to reexamine our understanding of God’s judgment. Here’s why it’s important:

  • A Call to Repentance: The coming judgment is a wake-up call for people to turn away from sin and seek God’s forgiveness.
  • God Desires Justice, Not Destruction: God’s ultimate desire is not to punish, but to restore his people to a right relationship with Him.
  • A Warning Against Being Superficial: Simply going through religious rituals isn’t enough. True faith requires a genuine change of heart.

Is God Cruel?

The concept of judgment can be unsettling. However, it’s important to remember God’s character:

  • Just and Righteous: God cannot ignore injustice forever. Judgment is a necessary consequence of sin.
  • Merciful and Loving: God offers forgiveness and restoration to those who repent.

Living in Light of the Day of the Lord

Amos 5:18 doesn’t negate God’s love, but serves as a wake-up call. Here’s how this verse applies to us:

  • Seek God’s Righteousness: Live a life that honors with God’s will.
  • Embrace Repentance: Acknowledge and turn away from your sin.
  • Spread God’s Love: Share God’s message of mercy and hope with others.

Call to Transformation

Amos 5:18 is a reminder that God desires a relationship with us.

The “Day of the Lord” is not something to be dreaded, but a reason for transformation. By living a life that reflects God’s character, we can experience His love and prepare ourselves for whatever the future holds.

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“One Minute with God”

Posted by onthesolidrock in Daily Inspiration, Discipline
Standing Strong: Facing Persecution with Faith and Joy

Standing Strong: Facing Persecution with Faith and Joy

Life as a follower of Christ isn’t always sunshine and rainbows. Jesus himself warned his disciples that they would face opposition, even violence, for their beliefs.

They will put you out of the synagogue; in fact, the time is coming when anyone who kills you will think they are offering a service to God.

(John 16:2)

This can be a scary thought. Why would anyone be persecuted for their faith? And how can we stay strong when things get tough?

Why Does Persecution Happen?

The truth is, the world doesn’t always understand or embrace what Jesus represents. He challenges the status quo, exposes darkness, and offers a different way of living (John 7:7).  This can feel threatening to those who cling to worldly values and priorities.

Here’s the thing: persecution isn’t a sign of weakness or failure. It’s a sign that you’re living faithfully and making a difference.

Responding to Persecution

So, how do we react when faced with persecution? Here are some key takeaways from Jesus’ teachings:

  •     Don’t be surprised. Jesus warned us about this reality, so we shouldn’t be caught off guard

If the world hates you, keep in mind that it hated me first.

John 15:18
  •     Don’t be afraid. Our physical safety might be threatened, but our eternal soul belongs to God

Do not be afraid of those who kill the body but cannot kill the soul. Rather, be afraid of the One who can destroy both soul and body in hell.

Matthew 10:28
  •     Don’t be ashamed. Standing up for your faith, even in the face of opposition, is something to be proud of

Whoever is ashamed of me and my words, the Son of Man will be ashamed of them when he comes in his glory and in the glory of the Father and of the holy angels.

Luke 9:26

The core response to persecution is unwavering faithfulness. No matter the cost, we continue to:

  •     Obey Jesus’ commands and follow His example.
  •     Share the message of the gospel with love and compassion.
  •     Remain rooted in Him and allow His teachings to guide us.

Finding Strength in the Midst of Trials

Even the most courageous person can feel overwhelmed.  The good news is, we’re not alone!  Here are some promises from Jesus that offer strength and hope:

    The Holy Spirit is with us. We have a powerful comforter, advocate, and counselor by our side

And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another advocate to help you and be with you forever— 17 the Spirit of truth. The world cannot accept him, because it neither sees him nor knows him. But you know him, for he lives with you and will be in you. 18 I will not leave you as orphans; I will come to you.

John 14:16-18

    We have a purpose. Our trials can refine our faith and produce perseverance (James 1:2-4).

Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.

James 1:2-4

    Eternal life awaits. The temporary hardships we face pale in comparison to the joy and reward that awaits us in Heaven

 Jesus said to her, “I am the resurrection and the life. The one who believes in me will live, even though they die; 26 and whoever lives by believing in me will never die. Do you believe this?”

John 11:25-26

Standing Firm in Faith

Persecution can be a difficult reality, but it doesn’t have to define us.  By remembering the reasons behind it, responding with unwavering faith, and clinging to the promises of God, we can face any challenge with courage and hope. 

Commit to following Jesus, no matter the cost, knowing that He is always with you.

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“One Minute with God”

Posted by onthesolidrock in Daily Inspiration, Prayer