Shattered but Unshakable: You Have Overcome All

A Guide to Overcoming Adversity 

Help, am losing faith!

 In life, it's almost a guarantee that you will encounter hardships. Sometimes you feel like giving up and metaphorically lying on the ground in defeat and despair. 

But if you look past these challenges, you'll find a great opportunity to grow and become a better you. This post is meant to let you know that with God, you have already overcome those challenges.

Faith

Your first stop in remaining sane in the midst of life's storms is having faith. But what the heck is faith, you ask?

The EASY Bible defines faith as follows

This is what it means to trust God: We will be sure about the things that we hope for. We will be sure in our minds about things that we cannot even see.

The Living Bible has its very vivid explanation of faith:

What is faith? It is the confident assurance that something we want is going to happen. It is the certainty that what we hope for is waiting for us, even though we cannot see it up ahead.

Different versions of Hebrews 1:1

Be sure that whatever you are hoping for is already there, waiting for you, in Christ Jesus. Are you you struggling with something, an addiction, a family situation, unemployment... the list goes on?

Be confident that your desired outcome is waiting for you. Faith is the receipt that God has already done it. Although things might look different right now, God has already ordained a way for you, just press on.

Strength in Weakness

God's grace is already sufficient in your life. Just lean on it.

Adversity exposes our weaknesses and vulnerabilities, leaving us feeling raw. But God is always there to strengthen us. 

Take Paul as an example, when he prayed to God about his "thorn in my flesh". What was God's response?

Each time he said, “No. But I am with you; that is all you need. My power shows up best in weak people.” Now I am glad to boast about how weak I am; I am glad to be a living demonstration of Christ’s power, instead of showing off my own power and abilities. 10 Since I know it is all for Christ’s good, I am quite happy about “the thorn,” and about insults and hardships, persecutions and difficulties; for when I am weak, then I am strong—the less I have, the more I depend on him. (2 Cor 12:9-10 TLB)

In hardships, learn to depend on God. He can never put you to shame. Instead of trying to make your marriage work through your means, bribing your way into a job, doing something shameful to get a promotion, let God do the heavy lifting while you reap the fruits thereof.

Stay Put

To have faith in God is believing that He is doing something, even when it seems obnoxious. But it is pure joy. 

In the book of James he tells us this:

2 Dear brothers, is your life full of difficulties and temptations? Then be happy, 3 for when the way is rough, your patience has a chance to grow. 4 So let it grow, and don’t try to squirm out of your problems. For when your patience is finally in full bloom, then you will be ready for anything, strong in character, full and complete. (James 1:2-4 TLB)

Treat your adversities as a fertilizer for patience. Don't uproot the tree of patience by throwing in the cards. 

Don't give up!

When the road is rough, change down but don't stop. You are learning, aren't you? In the end you will have a strong character, like an experienced driver, ready to navigate any road, rough or smooth. You will be proud of success, when at last you realize it.

Here comes restoration

God's promises do not extend to mere survival. In God we do not just survive; we thrive. Even in your darkes hour, know that God is working in your life, setting you up for greater things.

This is what He says in  the book of Peter:

Yes, you will suffer for a short time. But after that, God will make everything right. He will make you strong. He will support you and keep you from falling. He is the God who gives all grace. He chose you to share in his glory in Christ. That glory will continue forever. (1 Peter 5:10 ERV)

You are assured of a soft landing even when you are going through a rough patch. Keep reminding yourself of God's promise to restore and renew you, to share in His glory; not in heaven yet, but here on earth!

Joseph might have felt the same way as you and me in hardship when he was sold into slavery. But God had other plans with the slavery situation

To lift Joseph from the pit to the palace.

Just like Joseph, God is working in and out of hardship to lift you up and catapult you to greatness. In your darkest moment, remind yourself that this is another source of blessing and purpose.

Community

Yes, God can and is working in your life individually, but we all need someone to shar with. That's why you need a community of same-faith supporters in your darkest hour. 

If nothing else, they will remind you what God is saying about you and your future.

After all, they say, a problem shared is a problem half-solved. A support community will carry your burden, as exemplified in Galatians.

Live creatively, friends. If someone falls into sin, forgivingly restore him, saving your critical comments for yourself. You might be needing forgiveness before the day’s out. Stoop down and reach out to those who are oppressed. Share their burdens, and so complete Christ’s law. If you think you are too good for that, you are badly deceived. (GAlatians 6:2 MSG)

Trusted friends and confidants will give you fresh perspective and restore your hope and optimism in life. This is what the believers were doing in Acts 4:32-35.

All in all, overcoming adversity is not about avoiding hard tims, but facing them with an unshakable faith in God. Overcomers don't turn back when they see a mountain of trouble; they forge forward, trusting in the God who strengthen stheir feet.

I invite you to remain grounded in faith, persevere through hardship, embrace your weaknesses, trust in God's promises and invest in a faith community. 

By the way, you are closer to relief than you thought!

I can promise you this: You will emerge from your dark valley not just unbroken, but stronger and more resilient.

Behind the Scenes: Writing my Commentary on Romans 8

Picture this: a borrowed computer, a scattered Bible study group, and a relentless pursuit of understanding. This is the story behind the creation of my commentary on Romans 8 – a journey filled with twists, turns, and more than a few late nights burning the proverbial midnight oil.




It all began with a simple act of generosity from my pastor, who graciously lent me his computer to work on a project with a friend. Little did I know that this seemingly mundane gesture would set the stage for a journey of discovery that would reshape my understanding of faith and theology.




But life, as it so often does, had other plans. My friend relocated, taking our project – and my access to it – with him. With the dismantling of our Bible study group, I found myself adrift, searching for meaning and purpose in the pages of Scripture. And that's when I stumbled upon Romans 8.




At first, it was just another chapter – a collection of verses to be studied and analyzed. But the more I delved into its depths, the more I realized that there was something extraordinary lurking beneath the surface. With a mountain of notes at my disposal and a thirst for more, I dove back into the chapter, determined to uncover its hidden truths.




And so began the process of writing – a whirlwind of words, ideas, and endless revisions. There were days when I felt like I was on top of the world, riding high on the exhilarating rush of inspiration. But more often than not, it was a slog – a relentless uphill battle against self-doubt and writer's block.




My day job certainly didn't make things any easier. With uneven hours and late nights spent toiling away, finding time to work on the book felt like trying to squeeze blood from a stone. But still, I pressed on, fueled by a stubborn determination to see the project through to the end.




And then, just when I thought I was finished, a new line of thought would emerge, sending me back to the drawing board to type and retype, rewrite and revise. It was a maddening cycle of creation and destruction, but through it all, I knew that I was inching closer to something truly extraordinary.




So here I am, on the other side of it all – weary, perhaps, but undeniably changed. My commentary on Romans 8 is more than just a book; it's a testament to the power of perseverance, the thrill of discovery, and the boundless depths of faith. And as I stand on the brink of sharing it with the world, I can't help but feel a sense of awe and gratitude for the journey that brought me here.

The Importance of Studying Romans in Contemporary Theology

In the vast landscape of theological exploration, there's a beacon of wisdom that shines brighter than most – the book of Romans. Yes, that's right – tucked away in the pages of this ancient letter lies a wealth of insights that are not only relevant but downright indispensable for contemporary theology. So, grab your metaphorical magnifying glass and let's delve into why studying Romans is a non-negotiable for any serious student of theology.




First and foremost, Romans serves as the cornerstone of Pauline theology, offering a comprehensive framework for understanding key concepts such as justification, salvation, and the righteousness of God. It's like the foundational layer of a theological skyscraper – without it, everything else tends to crumble. By immersing ourselves in the intricate tapestry of Romans, we gain a solid foundation upon which to build our theological understanding and interpretation of Scripture.




But it's not just about laying the groundwork; Romans also challenges us to grapple with some of the most pressing questions and debates of our time. From the nature of sin and redemption to the role of faith in the Christian life, this letter forces us to confront the complexities of our faith head-on. And let's be honest – wrestling with tough questions is what keeps theology from becoming stale and irrelevant. It's like a mental workout for our spiritual muscles – painful at times, but ultimately rewarding.




Moreover, studying Romans in the context of contemporary theology allows us to bridge the gap between ancient wisdom and modern relevance. By applying the timeless truths of this letter to the pressing issues and challenges of today's world, we breathe new life into age-old debates and shed light on previously unexplored avenues of theological inquiry. It's like taking a classic car and retrofitting it with state-of-the-art technology – suddenly, it's not just a relic of the past, but a vehicle for the future.




Of course, none of this is to say that studying Romans is easy. Far from it – navigating its dense theological arguments and intricate logic can feel like trying to unravel a particularly stubborn knot. But therein lies the beauty of the challenge – it's in the struggle that we find growth, enlightenment, and, dare I say, a healthy dose of intellectual satisfaction. After all, as the old saying goes, nothing worth having comes easy – and the insights gleaned from studying Romans are certainly no exception.




So, whether you're a seasoned theologian or a curious seeker on the journey of faith, let me leave you with this thought: don't overlook the importance of studying Romans in contemporary theology. It may not always be the easiest path, but I can promise you this – the treasures waiting to be uncovered are well worth the effort.

Practical application of Scripture in everyday life: A Step to Step Guide

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Introduction:

In a world filled with challenges and uncertainties, many seek solace and guidance in spiritual teachings. The scriptures, revered by various religions, offer timeless wisdom that can be applied to navigate the complexities of everyday life. This step-by-step guide aims to explore practical ways to integrate scripture into our daily routines, empowering individuals to live more purposefully and harmoniously.




Step 1: Selecting Relevant Scriptures
The first step in applying scripture to daily life is to identify relevant passages that resonate with personal experiences and challenges. Whether facing adversity, seeking guidance in decision-making, or striving for personal growth, the scriptures offer a wealth of wisdom for every situation. Consider keeping a journal of verses that speak to you, creating a personalized repository of inspiration.




Scripture Example: Proverbs 3:5-6 - "Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight."




Step 2: Understanding the Context
To truly grasp the meaning and relevance of scripture, it's essential to delve into its historical and cultural context. Contextual understanding prevents misinterpretation and ensures that the intended message is applied accurately. Online resources, study guides, and commentaries can provide valuable insights into the background of various passages.




Scripture Example: Matthew 5:14-16 - "You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden. Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead, they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven."




Step 3: Reflection and Meditation
Once you've selected relevant scriptures and gained insight into their context, take time for reflection and meditation. Set aside moments of quietude to ponder the deeper meanings of the passages and contemplate how they apply to your life. Journaling your thoughts and insights can deepen your understanding and facilitate personal growth.




Scripture Example: Psalm 46:10 - "Be still, and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth."




Step 4: Integration into Daily Practices

The true power of scripture lies in its application to daily practices. Incorporate verses into morning rituals, mealtime prayers, or bedtime reflections. Create visual reminders by displaying scripture verses in prominent places around your home or workspace. By integrating scripture into daily routines, you cultivate a mindset of mindfulness and spiritual awareness.




Scripture Example: Colossians 3:17 - "And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him."




Step 5: Practicing Compassion and Forgiveness

Central to many scriptures is the message of compassion and forgiveness. Apply these principles in your interactions with others, cultivating empathy and understanding. Let go of grudges and resentments, embracing the transformative power of forgiveness. By embodying these values, you foster harmony and goodwill in your relationships and communities.




Scripture Example: Ephesians 4:32 - "Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you."




Conclusion:

The practical application of scripture in everyday life offers a roadmap for navigating life's challenges with grace and wisdom. By selecting relevant scriptures, understanding their context, and integrating them into daily practices, individuals can cultivate a deeper connection to their faith and live more authentically. Let the timeless wisdom of scripture guide your journey towards a life filled with purpose, compassion, and joy.

Grace Uncovered: Coming soon

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 Introducing "Grace Uncovered: A Commentary on Romans 8" 

– the culmination of a journey that began with "Garments of Righteousness" and evolved into an exploration of grace, salvation, and the transformative power of Romans 8.

Have you ever found yourself grappling with unanswered questions about salvation, grace, and what it truly means to live a life transformed by faith? If so, you're not alone. In fact, it was precisely these questions that ignited my passion and propelled me on a quest for answers.

Inspired by the writing process of "Garments of Righteousness," I delved deeper into the rich tapestry of Romans 8, drawn by its profound insights and timeless wisdom. What I discovered was nothing short of revelatory – a message of grace that transcends human understanding and offers hope to all who seek it.

"Grace Uncovered" is more than just a commentary; it's a roadmap for navigating the complexities of faith and embracing the transformative power of God's grace. With a blend of scholarly insight and heartfelt reflection, this book will guide you on a journey of discovery, inviting you to explore the depths of Romans 8 and uncover the secrets of salvation by grace.

But don't just take my word for it. Join me on this adventure of faith and discovery, and let "Grace Uncovered" be your companion as you explore the wonders of God's grace. Whether you're a seasoned theologian or a curious seeker, there's something here for everyone – and I promise, you won't be disappointed.

So, what are you waiting for? Dive into "Grace Uncovered" today and let the journey begin. Your soul will thank you. Go to the Grace Uncovered Page to see the book's progress. Sign up to receive updates in your mail, and, as a bonus, the book Garments of Righteousness..

I was too proud to accept: The day I was humbled down

 Lessons Learned from Childhood Embarrassment: A Sunday School Tale

In the mosaic of childhood memories, some moments shimmer brightly, while others linger like shadows in the recesses of our minds. Allow me to take you back to a Sunday afternoon of my youth, a time when innocence clashed with ego, and the lessons learned were as profound as they were unexpected.

Picture a bustling Sunday school classroom, filled with the eager chatter of children preparing for their weekly presentations. As a diligent student, I had diligently rehearsed my assigned memory verse, confident that my efforts would be duly recognized by our Sunday school teacher. Little did I know that fate had a different script in store for me.

As the day of reckoning dawned, my anticipation reached a crescendo. I was poised and ready to take the stage, to recite my verse with all the fervor and eloquence a child could muster. But alas, destiny had other plans.

When the moment arrived for our teacher to choose the presenter, my name remained conspicuously unsaid. Instead, the honor fell upon Muchiri and Sylvia, a duo known for their struggles with learning and communication. As they timidly stepped forward, huddling together in a gesture of solidarity, my heart sank like a stone.

Their rendition of the verse was a whispered symphony, barely audible to the ears of those present. Embarrassment gripped me like a vice, and in a desperate bid to hide my shame, I sought refuge in the comforting embrace of my elder brother's pants. Little did I know that this feeble attempt at evasion would earn me a swift stroke of the cane—a painful reminder that avoidance was not the answer.

In the aftermath of that fateful Sunday, I found myself wrestling with a whirlwind of emotions. Anger, frustration, and embarrassment warred within me, leaving me feeling adrift in a sea of confusion. How could they have been chosen over me? I had worked tirelessly, honing my recitation to perfection, only to be overshadowed by two students whose struggles were well-known to all.

But as the days turned into weeks, and the sting of humiliation began to fade, a newfound understanding began to take root within me. Muchiri and Sylvia may have faltered in their presentation, but their need for that moment in the spotlight was greater than my own. They didn't just recite a verse—they defied expectations, challenged perceptions, and reminded us all of the power of resilience in the face of adversity.

In the grand tapestry of life, moments of embarrassment and discomfort serve as poignant reminders of our shared humanity. They teach us humility, empathy, and the importance of looking beyond ourselves to see the struggles of others. Muchiri and Sylvia may have stumbled that Sunday, but their courage and determination left an indelible mark on my heart—one that continues to shape the person I am today.

So here's to the lessons learned in the hallowed halls of Sunday school, where humility and understanding were served with a side of embarrassment. May we all strive to be a little kinder, a little more empathetic, and a little more willing to embrace the unexpected lessons life has to offer.