An Easy Recipe for Spiritual Growth

 How to Cultivate a Deeper Relationship with God

I want to be closer to God, both mentally and emotionally..... spiritually. This is a statement we often hear, especially when we are drafting those new- year resolutions. But do we really achieve that?

In the modern world, it's easy to get caught up in the daily craze to meet deadlines, and, generally, to make ends meet. We often get our diaries filled up for the whole week, utterly forgetting about the most important thing in life: God.

In this post am going to share easy steps you can take to grow in faith and cement your relationship with God.

Pray 

Some people only pray on Sundays, then wait for God to sustain them for the rest of the week. Others trust in prayer, making a religion out of it. 

But what does the Bible teach about Prayer? This is what it admonishes us in the book of Thessalonians:

16 Rejoice always, 17 pray continually, 18 give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus. (1 Thessalonians 5:16-18)

Prayer is communion with God. Be in constant fellowship with Him, the same way you would with a close friend. By praying in the power of the Holy Spirit, you build yourself up in your faith.

But you, my delightfully loved friends, constantly and progressively build yourselves up on the foundation of your most holy faith by praying every moment in the Spirit. Fasten your hearts to the love of God and receive the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ, who gives us eternal life. Keep being compassionate to those who still have doubts, and snatch others out of the fire to save them. Be merciful over and over to them, but always couple your mercy with the fear of God. Be extremely careful to keep yourselves free from the pollutions of the flesh. Now, to the one with enough power to prevent you from stumbling into sin and bring you faultless before his glorious presence to stand before him with ecstatic delight. (Jude 1:20-24 TPT)

Read your Bible

Hebrews 4:12 (TPT)

For we have the living Word of God, which is full of energy, like a two-mouthed sword. It will even penetrate to the very core of our being where soul and spirit, bone and marrow meet! It interprets and reveals the true thoughts and secret motives of our hearts.

The word of God is God's will for us. It is God's power … unto salvation. When you read the word of God, you are interacting with God's power.

Again, you won't know how or what to pray for if you don't know what God says in His word. Jesus said, " … that you would know the truth and the truth will set you free" The word of God is the only truth. If you don't know what the word says, you don't know the truth.

If you don't know the truth, how can you repeat to God what He said in His word? How can you pray according to God's will? How can you know what is in God's mind?

The only way to know God's secrets is by His word, guided by the Holy Spirit. Set aside time to read the scriptures and you will see the difference in your life.

Take part in worship and Community

Proverbs 27:17 (NLT)

As iron sharpens iron, so a friend sharpens a friend.

Worship is a way of expressing awe and gratitude towards God. It is a form of expression of love and respect for Him, even as we make ourselves vulnerable to Him, to receive more of His love and care.

When you take part in corporate worship through going to church, small groups, worship nights and such, you encounter other worshipers who, like yourself, are eager to experience more of God.

These like-minded people will support and encourage you through your faith journey.

Surround yourself with these people, because they will challenge you and inspire you to grow.

Be Thankful and Reflect on God's Providence

It is easy to lapse in to sulking, counting what we lack. But the real juice is in gratitude. Count your blessings and see what God has done in your life.

It helps to pause and think of those simple ways God has shone through in your life, then you will realize how much of His power is at work around you. The realization that God is at work in you brings you to a state of dep worship, challenging you to know Him better.

You can express you gratitude by simply writing down, worship, thankful prayer, or even assenting in your mind. By being thankful and content, you are assured that God is working in those areas where you might feel needs working on.

Serve

 Matthew 20:28, 

"the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many

Although the above scripture would rather be understood in another context, it's great to serve others, rather than wait to be served. God is love, and when we render service to others, we let God's love shine through us.

We also get a big chance to grow, both spiritually, emotionally and intellectually, when we offer a listening ear to those in need or take others' burdens on our shoulders.

There are quite a number of ways you can deepen your connection with God, but these are the main ways you can employ . If you study the word of God, pray according too HIs  will serve others and be grateful, you are several steps into a deeper relationship with God.

As we grow spiritually, we not only strengthen our connection with Him but also become better equipped to live out our faith in every aspect of our lives.

Remember, spiritual growth is not about perfection, but about progress. It’s about taking small, consistent steps towards a closer relationship with God, trusting that He will guide and transform us along the way.

The Power of Community: Building a Faith-Filled Tribe

 

Should we Live Out Independently as Born-Again Christians, or as a Community?

Today's socio-economic trends are gravitating towards a more individualistic way of life. It may feel like the best route in the short run, but after some time of being alone you realize the need for community. 

The need of a community can not be overstated. A community is a great platform to share the good and sad times, grow together and build each other in faith.

The apostles learned this secret early and enjoyed the fruits of being together. This is what we are told about their fellowship:

42 They devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and to fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer. 43 Everyone was filled with awe at the many wonders and signs performed by the apostles. 44 All the believers were together and had everything in common. 45 They sold property and possessions to give to anyone who had need. 46 Every day they continued to meet together in the temple courts. They broke bread in their homes and ate together with glad and sincere hearts, 47 praising God and enjoying the favor of all the people. And the Lord added to their number daily those who were being saved. (Acts 2:42-47 NIV)

In the same way, we are encouraged in Hebrews 10:24-25 to spur one another towards love. Instead of living separately, we would do better to stick together.

Jesus himself promises to join the fellowship of believers in Mathew 18:20. This underlines the importance of fellowship and community.

The question you might be asking is, should I be in a community, simply because I need to be? The simple answer is, do you share the same values?

Before you commit yourself to a certain group, or hack together a group, it is important to identify the core values that bring you together. This ensures that you are reading from the samepage and playing towards a common goal.

You might consider drafting a clear mission and vision statement, which will further unify and inspire you. Most people, though, lack such a statement and still do great.

The idea is to make sure you are going in the same direction.

This calls for intentional connection, which creates deep, meaningful ties within the group. It further promotes intimacy and a sense of belonging, where every member deeply feels and cares for the other's needs.

It would help make others feel valued and respected, if we accept them just as christ accepted us. This is what is called "Biblical hospitality". Be hospitable towards each other, and the love of God will thrive amongst you.

As we embrace each other, it's imperative we remember to serve one another in humility. To quote the words of Christ, "let the master be the slave". 

When every member of the community is equal, everyone feels at ease. Nobody feels belittled, or even the itch to rise to a position of power within the group.

Where possible, it is best not to have a hierarchy of leadership or power; just friends meeting with a common goal. But where a form of leadership is needed, the leaders should be careful to consider the needs and weaknesses of the others.

Remember: before you are a leader, you are a member with the same aspirations.

One of the aspirations of christian groups is worship. When people worship together they feel more invigorated, more uplifted, and more connected. 

It is therefore important to incorporate such practices into your routine, if they are not the core reason why you are together. This spiritual disciplines helps the members grow individually and collectively. Exploring creative forms of worship can engage different members and enhance the communal experience.

A faith-filled tribe is not a far-fetched idea: it is an entity with far reaching effects. The results of a faith club start from a personal level, and extend to the world at large. From intimacy with members and with God, to heightened emotional discipline to better interpersonal skills, the importance can't be overstated.

Building a faith-filled tribe is an ongoing journey. By remaining committed to our communities and continually seeking ways to deepen our faith and strengthen our bonds, we can create vibrant, transformative communities that reflect the love, grace, and truth of Jesus Christ.

The Holy Bible, New International Version.

Keller, Timothy. The Prodigal God: Recovering the Heart of the Christian Faith. Penguin Books, 2008.

Bonhoeffer, Dietrich. Life Together: The Classic Exploration of Faith in Community. HarperOne, 1954.

Stanley, Andy. Creating Community: Five Keys to Building a Small Group Culture. Multnomah, 2004.

Nouwen, Henri J.M. Reaching Out: The Three Movements of the Spiritual Life. Image, 1986.

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.