Category: Sanctification

Living Out The Fruits of the Spirit

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“But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law.” ~ Galatians 5:22-23 (NIV)

The Fruits of the Spirit are transformative virtues that not only enrich our lives but also positively influence the world around us. They provide a roadmap for living with purpose and reflecting God’s character in our daily actions. Let us explore each of these qualities, their significance, and practical ways to embody them.

Love

Love is the cornerstone of the Christian faith. It represents a selfless, unconditional affection that motivates us to act with compassion and empathy.

Practical Application

Show love through small, intentional acts of kindness each day. Express gratitude, lend a helping hand, or offer a listening ear. Remember, love is not just a feeling but a reflection of God’s heart in action.

“Let all that you do be done in love.” — 1 Corinthians 16:14 (ESV)

Prayer

Heavenly Father, thank You for Your boundless love. Help us to embody Your love in our interactions with others, showing compassion and kindness in all that we do. Amen.

Joy

Joy is a deep, abiding happiness rooted in our relationship with God, independent of external circumstances.

Practical Application

Cultivate joy by beginning each day with gratitude. Maintain a gratitude journal and share joyful moments with others. Joy is contagious—spreading it uplifts those around us.

“Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, rejoice!” — Philippians 4:4 (ESV)

Prayer

Lord, thank You for the joy that comes from knowing You. Help us to focus on our blessings and to share joy with others, even in challenging times. Amen.

Peace

Peace is the inner tranquillity that comes from trusting in God, enabling us to remain calm amid life’s challenges.

Practical Application

Dedicate time daily to quiet reflection, prayer, or scripture reading. Taking a walk in nature or meditating on God’s word can provide the serenity needed to handle life’s storms.

“And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” — Philippians 4:7 (ESV)

Prayer

Gracious God, thank You for the peace that surpasses all understanding. Help us to rest in Your presence and be peacemakers in our relationships. Amen.

Patience

Patience is the ability to endure challenges with grace, responding thoughtfully rather than impulsively.

Practical Application

Reframe frustrating moments as opportunities for growth. When impatience arises, take a deep breath and remember that waiting builds resilience and trust in God.

“Be still before the Lord and wait patiently for him.” — Psalm 37:7 (NIV)

Prayer

Dear Lord, grant us the patience to endure difficulties with grace. Help us to grow through life’s waiting seasons and reflect Your calmness in our actions. Amen.

Kindness

Kindness is an outward expression of love, marked by friendliness, generosity, and consideration for others.

Practical Application

Perform intentional acts of kindness regularly—compliment someone, write a thoughtful note, or assist a colleague. Small gestures often have a lasting impact.

“Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ forgave you.” — Ephesians 4:32 (ESV)

Prayer

Heavenly Father, thank You for the gift of kindness. Open our hearts to see opportunities to bless others and reflect Your love through our actions. Amen.

Goodness

Goodness involves moral integrity and a commitment to doing what is right, even when it is difficult.

Practical Application

Set personal integrity goals. Be honest, avoid gossip, and advocate for justice when needed. Striving for goodness inspires others to pursue what is right.

“Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.” — Romans 12:21 (ESV)

Prayer

Lord, thank You for the call to live with goodness and integrity. Guide us to make righteous choices and stand for truth, even in the face of opposition. Amen.

Faithfulness

Faithfulness reflects loyalty and reliability in our relationships and our walk with God.

Practical Application

Develop faithfulness by maintaining consistent prayer and scripture study. Honour your commitments and support others in their times of need.

“The one who calls you is faithful, and he will do it.” — 1 Thessalonians 5:24 (NIV)

Prayer

Gracious God, thank You for Your unwavering faithfulness. Help us to remain loyal in our relationships and deepen our commitment to You. Amen.

Gentleness

Gentleness is the quality of being mild and tender, approaching others with humility and understanding.

Practical Application

Respond thoughtfully in conversations, especially during conflicts. Listen actively and choose calmness over anger, fostering an environment of respect.

“Let your reasonableness be known to everyone. The Lord is at hand.” — Philippians 4:5 (ESV)

Prayer

Lord, thank You for Your gentle spirit. Teach us to respond to others with humility and kindness, reflecting Your grace in our interactions. Amen.

Self-Control

Self-control is the ability to manage our impulses and align our decisions with God’s will.

Practical Application

Set boundaries and practice mindfulness in decision-making. Reflect regularly on your actions, adjusting to align with God’s values.

“For God gave us a spirit not of fear but of power and love and self-control.” — 2 Timothy 1:7 (ESV)

Prayer

Heavenly Father, thank You for the gift of self-control. Strengthen our discipline to resist temptation and live according to Your will. Amen.

Conclusion

Living out the Fruits of the Spirit enriches our lives and inspires those around us to seek God. By actively embodying these virtues, we become beacons of God’s love, peace, and righteousness in the world.

Unshakeable Faith is Essential in a Wavering World

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Standing on the solid rock of faith means holding firmly to God’s Word while also being open to learning and growing in our understanding of it. Today, we are commonly told to keep an open mind about our beliefs and how we interpret the Word of God. Many people are encouraged to avoid being dogmatic, leading some to cherry-pick Scriptures or change their meanings altogether. This practice often involves using the Bible only when its teachings align with personal preferences or the expectations of the audience. Such a liberal view distorts the integrity of God’s Word—if you don’t like it, change it! What use is the Word of God if it can be altered? How can we have faith in truth if truth is seen as variable?

The Word of God is meant to assure us of both God’s nature and our future in Him. If we maintain an open mind to the point of compromising its teachings, we risk dismissing Christ’s promises and missing out on the fullness of what He guarantees. True Christians do not keep an open mind when it comes to God’s Word; you either believe it or you don’t. You cannot sit on the fence. The journey of faith requires a foundation rooted in the unchanging truth of God’s Word.

How many of you would board a plane knowing that the pilot was going to keep an open mind about the destination? Well just as a pilot must navigate their course with precision, they cannot afford to be liberal or selective about the path they choose to reach their destination. Each decision made in the cockpit matters greatly; even small adjustments can have significant consequences for the journey, and so it is with God’s Word. We are invited to align our lives with God’s truth, but this does not mean altering His Word to fit our preferences. His truth remains constant, and our understanding should deepen without compromising Scripture’s principles. Faith demands humility; there is always more to discover in the Bible.

As Paul reminds us in 2 Timothy 1:2, we are called to be faithful to the truth that has been entrusted to us. Our belief in Christ Jesus is our sure foundation—He is the rock upon which we stand and the anchor of hope for our blood-bought souls. Psalm 18:2 describes Him as the everlasting rock for those who fear and esteem Him, a steadfast refuge in times of trouble. There’s nothing wishy-washy about Jesus or His Word. He is the Word made flesh who dwelt among us and our soon-coming King, to whom every knee will bow and confess He is Lord.

Times may change, and people’s views may shift, but God remains the same yesterday, today, and tomorrow. His promises provide a firm foundation amidst a world of uncertainty.

Being open does not mean abandoning core beliefs. Instead, it helps us build a stronger foundation based on God’s eternal Word while remaining teachable. The Bible encourages us to think deeply about Scripture and to stay receptive to what God may reveal each day. This isn’t about changing God’s Word; it’s about allowing it to transform us. Our foundation is solid because it rests on God’s promises and truth.

As James 1:6-8 warns, we should not be double-minded in our faith, for such uncertainty leads to instability. We are called to take every thought captive to obey Christ, as stated in 2 Corinthians 10:5. Faith is not about rigidity; it’s about standing confidently on God’s promises, knowing His Word gives us a firm foundation. While we can be sure of what we believe, we should also allow God to enrich that understanding over time.

Let this balance between a solid foundation and an open heart inspire you today. Stand firm on the rock of God’s Word, knowing that you are both grounded and growing—rooted in unchanging truth yet open to the richness of God’s wisdom and grace as He reveals it, because God Himself backs it up.

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**Excerpt based on Reinhard Bonnke’s book, “Faith: The Link with God’s Power.” / Photo by Pixabay at Pexels

So You Have a Past… Who Doesn’t?

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What the Bible Says About New Beginnings in Christ

Let’s be honest—no one makes it through life without baggage. Every one of us has a past. Some of us carry the weight of wrong decisions, broken relationships, deep regrets, or seasons we’d rather forget. Maybe your past is marked by addiction, failure, shame, or simply drifting far from God. Whatever your story looks like, you’re not alone—and more importantly, your story isn’t over.

Here’s the good news: God specializes in new beginnings.

The Bible isn’t a book of perfect people; it’s the story of a perfect God who redeems imperfect people. Abraham lied. Moses murdered. David committed adultery. Peter denied Jesus. Paul persecuted Christians. And yet every one of them was transformed by the grace of God and used for His glory.

That same grace is available to you. Jesus didn’t come to condemn your past—He came to redeem your life and offer you a brand-new start. The message of the Gospel is not “try harder” or “be better,” but “come to Me, all you who are heavy laden and I will give you rest.”

You Are a New Creation

The Apostle Paul sums it up beautifully in 2 Corinthians 5:17:

“Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come.”

Let that sink in: you are a new creation. That means the old labels no longer apply. Your past doesn’t get to define your identity. In Christ, your story gets rewritten. God doesn’t just clean you up—He completely transforms you from the inside out.

For many, this moment of transformation is sudden and undeniable. One minute you’re consumed by the world—chasing image, pleasure, and temporary fixes—and the next, you’re face-to-face with the overwhelming love of Christ. That’s what happened to me. I spent years looking for truth in all the wrong places: from New Age counterfeit spirituality to a life built around image, status, and self.

But in the middle of my brokenness, Jesus met me with a love I didn’t even know I needed. The moment I called out to Him, everything changed. It was as if the weight I had carried for years finally lifted.

A New Heart and a New Spirit

God promises not just a new beginning, but a whole new nature:

“I will give you a new heart and put a new spirit in you; I will remove from you your heart of stone and give you a heart of flesh.” (Ezekiel 36:26)

This isn’t about behavior modification—it’s about heart transformation. During my time in the New Age, I believed I could heal and improve myself through things like positive thinking, life coaching, and spiritual techniques. But none of it brought true freedom or lasting peace. What I needed wasn’t another method or mindset shift—it was the truth found in Jesus Christ. When I opened the Bible, I discovered that Christianity isn’t about climbing a ladder to reach God—it’s about a loving God who came down to rescue us through Jesus. He didn’t just tidy up my broken life—He made me completely new.

Your Past Is Not Too Great for God’s Grace

One of the enemy’s favorite tactics is shame. He whispers, “You’ll never change. You’re too far gone. God could never use someone like you.” But the cross silences that lie. The blood of Jesus covers every sin, every failure, every regret.

Isaiah 1:18 says:

“Though your sins are like scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they are red as crimson, they shall be like wool.”

No matter how deep the pit, God’s arm is not too short to save. I’ve lived that truth. I went from spiritual deception and emotional darkness—even suicidal thoughts—to complete restoration in Christ. And it wasn’t because I fixed myself. It was because He rescued me. His love met me in the most hopeless moment of my life.

God Is Doing a New Thing

God doesn’t just rescue us from our past—He invites us into a future:

“Forget the former things; do not dwell on the past. See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it?” (Isaiah 43:18–19)

When you surrender your life to Jesus, you’re not just forgiven—you’re empowered. God fills you with His Holy Spirit to walk in freedom, purpose, and peace. That’s not just theory—it’s reality. I’ve seen God rewrite my story in ways I could never have imagined, and I now have a mission to share that hope with others.

Walking in the Newness of Life

Romans 6:4 says:

“Just as Christ was raised from the dead through the glory of the Father, we too may live a new life.”

This new life is marked by daily surrender and daily grace. It’s not about perfection—it’s about progress, walking hand-in-hand with a God who loves you too much to leave you as you are. He gives you a new identity, a new heart, and a new reason to live.

Conclusion: God’s Not Done With You

So you have a past? Who doesn’t? But in Jesus, you also have a future. The past may explain you, but it doesn’t define you—not anymore.

When Jesus says, “Behold, I make all things new” (Revelation 21:5), He means it. I’ve lived it. And if He can do it for me, He can absolutely do it for you.

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** Photo by Pixabay at Pexels

7 Signs God May Be Testing You

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“Beloved, do not think it strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened to you; but rejoice to the extent that you partake of Christ’s sufferings, that when His glory is revealed, you may also be glad with exceeding joy.” ~ 1 Peter 4:12-19 NKJV

Often times, as born again believers we face difficult situations and wonder if there are deeper reasons for that trial. The Bible teaches that there are certain instances where God uses a circumstance to test us and our hearts. Here are seven signs that God is testing you, with each one serving to reveal, refine, and strengthen your faith.

Seven Signs God May Be Testing You

1. Unusual Delays

When God allows for unusual delays, it’s a test. We see this in the example of Abraham. The testing of Abraham was used to refine his trust and patience in God (Genesis 21:1-3).

Often, unusual delays may show that the test is from God. These sorts of tests reveal things in our hearts and refine our character, perfecting our patience. Ultimately, the lessons learned in these seasons are things that no other season in our lives would show us.

2. Facing Impossible Situations

Secondly, another tell-tale sign is when you’re facing impossible situations. We see in the Bible that God tested Moses and the Israelites by allowing them to face the Red Sea and fear the reality of Pharaoh behind them (Exodus 14:13-14).

If you’re facing an impossible situation, God is not trying to drown you or destroy you. He is testing you. Your fear and doubt may come to the surface during those times, but God desires to bring it up to remove it from within you.

3. Struggles with Provision

Next, when you struggle with provision, you might be tested by God.

It’s easy sometimes for those of us in a spiritual warfare camp to shift blame always on the devil, especially when experiencing financial issues. But sometimes, the Lord might be testing us, just as He did with Israel when they faced lack in the promised land (Deuteronomy 8:3).

God wasn’t attacking them but was revealing, refining, training, and perfecting them. He did provide for them, but He also wanted to perfect them. God is not just interested in providing for you. He’s interested in perfecting you.

4. Trials of Suffering

Another important thing to remember is that trials of suffering often mean experiencing loss and hardship. For instance, in Scripture we see that Job experienced intense suffering, loss, and hardship. During his suffering, we see that Job worshipped even in his grief (Job 1:20-21). He didn’t have answers but chose to trust.

If you’re experiencing this sort of test, it’s important to remember that the way trust in God is expressed is through worship. Life on earth is really a series of losses. Grasping that reality can help you get through trials, knowing life is temporary, and eternal life is what really matters.

5. Temptations to Compromise

Next, when you’re facing temptations to compromise, it’s a test.

Daniel was tested to see if he would conform to Babylonian customs (Daniel 6:10). In the same way, God may test your integrity and obedience to His word in situations where obeying Him might cost you. In temptation, the enemy entices you to sin, but God reveals what’s in your heart, refines your character, perfects your godliness, and trains you in righteousness.

6. Opportunity to Help Others

When you have the opportunity to help others despite being in hardship, it’s a test.

In scripture, we see that Joseph, despite his own hardships, was faithful in serving others (Genesis 39:4-5). Often, God tests our willingness to serve and bless others, even in difficult situations. Joseph, even while imprisoned, served his fellow prisoners and interpreted their dreams.

It’s a test: Will you show up and help others when you’re struggling? Remember, you’re not giving out of your lack but from what Jesus has given you.

7. Silence from God

Lastly, experiencing silence from God can be a test.

Jesus was tested in the wilderness during a period of isolation and silence, with only the voices of Satan. Sometimes, when God is “silent,” it’s because the test is in progress (Matthew 4:1-2).

When God is silent, remember everything He’s taught you prior. The silence is not abandonment but a test.

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**By Pastor Vladimir Savchuk / Photo by Louis Bauer at Pexels

The Counterfeits of the Holy Spirit

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“But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you…” – Acts 1:8

In the realm of spirituality, the Holy Spirit is central to the Christian faith. Jesus promised His followers that the Holy Spirit would come to empower, guide, and comfort them. However, alongside this divine presence, various counterfeits emerge, often masquerading as spiritual guides. This article explores these counterfeits through the teachings of Jesus, emphasizes the importance of discerning the authentic work of the Holy Spirit, and provides guidance on how to receive the Holy Spirit.

Understanding the Holy Spirit

Before diving into the counterfeits, it’s essential to grasp the significance of the Holy Spirit in the words of Jesus. In John 14:16-17, Jesus said, “And I will ask the Father, and He will give you another Helper, to be with you forever, even the Spirit of truth, whom the world cannot receive, because it neither sees Him nor knows Him. You know Him, for He dwells with you and will be in you.”

Jesus’ promise indicates that the Holy Spirit is not just a passive force but an active presence in the lives of believers. He provides:

• Power: “But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you, and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth” (Acts 1:8).

• Wisdom: In John 16:13, He reassures us, “When the Spirit of truth comes, He will guide you into all the truth.”

• Comfort: “I will not leave you as orphans; I will come to you” (John 14:18).

• Guidance: “The Spirit will teach you all things and bring to your remembrance all that I have said to you” (John 14:26).

The Third Person of the Trinity

The Holy Spirit is the third person of the Holy Trinity, which consists of God the Father, God the Son (Jesus Christ), and God the Holy Spirit. This divine relationship emphasizes the unique roles each person plays in the believer’s life. While the Father is the Creator and the Son is the Redeemer, the Holy Spirit is our Helper, Comforter, and Guide, actively working in the hearts of believers to bring about transformation, empowerment, and intimacy with God.

The Nature of Counterfeits

Counterfeits of the Holy Spirit can take many forms, appearing attractive and persuasive. They can lead individuals away from genuine experiences of God’s Spirit. Jesus warned about these deceptions in Matthew 7:15: “Beware of false prophets, who come to you in sheep’s clothing but inwardly are ravenous wolves.” Here are some common types of counterfeits:

1. Self-Exalted Leaders

Some individuals position themselves as spiritual authorities, demanding devotion and submission. Jesus cautioned against such leaders in Matthew 23:1-3: “Then Jesus said to the crowds and to His disciples, ‘The scribes and the Pharisees sit on Moses’ seat, so do and observe whatever they tell you, but not the works they do. For they preach, but do not practice.’” Authentic spiritual leaders will always direct individuals to Christ rather than seeking power for themselves.

2. Philosophical and New Age Teachings

Many have turned to philosophies and New Age teachings that blur the lines between spirituality and self-help. Jesus emphasized the importance of truth in John 8:32: “And you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.” True empowerment comes through the Holy Spirit, not through self-derived philosophies.

3. Oracles and Mediums

Throughout history, people claiming to have insights into the spiritual realm have attracted followers. Jesus warned against seeking guidance from such sources. In Deuteronomy 18:10-12, it is written, “There shall not be found among you anyone who burns his son or his daughter as an offering, anyone who practices divination or tells fortunes or interprets omens or a sorcerer or a charmer or a medium or a necromancer or one who inquires of the dead.”

4. Emotional Manipulation

Some religious gatherings may rely on emotional manipulation, creating an atmosphere that seeks to provoke spiritual experiences without the genuine work of the Holy Spirit. Jesus emphasized the importance of true worship in John 4:24: “God is spirit, and those who worship Him must worship in spirit and truth.” Genuine encounters with the Holy Spirit produce lasting transformation.

How to Receive the Holy Spirit:

Receiving the Holy Spirit is a vital step for every believer. Jesus invites all who seek Him to experience this life-changing gift. Here’s how you can receive the Holy Spirit according to the teachings of Jesus and the Scriptures:

1. Be Saved: A Born-Again Christian

The first step to receiving the Holy Spirit is to accept Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior. In John 3:5, Jesus states, “Truly, truly, I say to you, unless one is born of water and the Spirit, he cannot enter the kingdom of God.” Being saved means acknowledging your need for Jesus, repenting of your sins, and accepting His grace and putting your faith in Him.

2. Ask with Faith

In Luke 11:13, Jesus assures us, “If you then, who are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will the heavenly Father give the Holy Spirit to those who ask Him!” This verse emphasizes that receiving the Holy Spirit involves asking God in faith, believing that He desires to give you this gift.

3. Pray for the Holy Spirit

Here is a heartfelt prayer you can pray to God from your heart to receive the Holy Spirit:

Prayer

Gracious Father, I come before You in the name of Jesus. Thank You for the gift of salvation and for loving me so deeply. Today, I humbly ask for the precious gift of the Holy Spirit. Holy Spirit, You are welcome in my heart. Fill me with Your power and presence, From the crown of my head to the soles of my feet. I open my heart to receive all that You have for me. Transform my life and lead me in Your ways. In Jesus’ mighty name, I pray, amen.

4. Receive by Faith

After praying, it’s important to receive the Holy Spirit by faith, trusting that God has heard your prayer. In Acts 2:38-39, Peter proclaimed, “Repent and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins, and you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. For the promise is for you and for your children and for all who are far off, everyone whom the Lord our God calls to Himself.”

5. Live in the Spirit

Once you have received the Holy Spirit, embrace your new life. Galatians 5:16 encourages us: “But I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh.” Living in the Spirit involves daily reliance on God, prayer, and obedience to His word.

Recognizing the Authentic Spirit

To discern the genuine work of the Holy Spirit, believers must develop a close relationship with God through prayer, scripture, and community. Here are some ways to ensure one is attuned to the authentic voice of the Holy Spirit:

1. Scriptural Alignment

The Holy Spirit will never contradict the teachings of Scripture. Jesus affirmed this in Matthew 4:4: “Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that comes from the mouth of God.” Engaging regularly with the Bible helps believers understand God’s character and will.

2. Fruits of the Spirit

Evaluate spiritual experiences based on the fruits they produce. In Matthew 7:16-20, Jesus teaches, “You will recognize them by their fruits. Are grapes gathered from thornbushes, or figs from thistles? … Thus you will recognize them by their fruits.” True encounters with the Holy Spirit lead to love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control (Galatians 5:22-23).

3. Community Confirmation

Engaging with a community of believers provides support and confirmation. Jesus emphasized the importance of community in Matthew 18:20: “For where two or three are gathered in my name, there am I among them.” Spiritual experiences are often affirmed within a church body.

4. Prayer for Discernment

Believers should actively seek the Holy Spirit’s guidance in their lives, asking for discernment to recognize true spiritual authority and protect themselves from counterfeits. In James 1:5, we are assured, “If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives generously to all without reproach, and it will be given to him.”

Conclusion

In a world filled with spiritual counterfeits, the call to recognize and embrace the authentic work of the Holy Spirit is more critical than ever. Jesus reassures us in John 10:10: “I came that they may have life and have it abundantly.” By grounding ourselves in Scripture, nurturing our relationship with God, and fostering community, we can confidently navigate the spiritual landscape and receive the transformative power the Holy Spirit offers. Remember, the Holy Spirit is the key to living that abundant life in truth and power, guiding us away from the deceivers and into a deeper relationship with God.

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Photo by Vittorio Staffaloni in Pexels